Hidden Gems of Southern Thailand

Night Safari in Khao Sok NP

As the sun sets, you’ll set off on your trek into the jungle wonderland of Khao Sok National Park, just as the nocturnal animals begin to emerge.

Your experienced guide will be able to spot any glowing eyes in the darkness and find any critters hiding in the shadows, showing you wildlife you’d never spot during the day. If you’re lucky, you may even spot the world’s smallest deer, slow loris or civet cat.

Surrounded by the thick jungle and the symphony of its nighttime sounds, this experience may even be a little scary, but out of your comfort zone is the best place to be!

Explore Koh Phra Thong's Savannah

Koh Phra Thong is a true hidden gem: a large but unpopulated island off Thailand’s west coast. The lack of commercialisation sets it apart from other Thai islands: it’s blissfully free from 7/11s, beach vendors, or jet skis, and even phone signal, Wi-Fi, and electricity can drop out. This won’t suit everyone, but for anyone wanting to truly switch off and relax in nature, it’s a godsend! There’s still plenty to see and do on Koh Phra Thong, from its wildlife to the natural beauty of its beaches, forest, and unique savannah – the scene of this particular fun experience.

Unlike most Thai islands, Koh Phra Thong is flat, with a striking savannah grassland slightly inland. Best explored at dawn or dusk to avoid the full heat of the day, it can feel more like an African plain than Asia.

With few roads or cars, you’ll venture through it in an open-top jeep, and be in a prime position to observe plants and birdlife as you go.

On an early morning tour, as the sun rises over the island, expect to see a variety of birds and perhaps some reptiles warming themselves as the day begins. Or, on the evening outing, it’s a great place to enjoy a glass of wine on the hood of a jeep to the warm glow of sundown.

Explore Cheow Lan Lake

Discover the natural wonders of Cheow Lan Lake on an overnight adventure, ending with a stay in a floating bungalow.

Begin your journey with a scenic longtail boat ride across the lake, taking in the breathtaking views of towering limestone cliffs and mountains. Your guide will show you the most beautiful sights of the lake, and you’ll have the chance to visit waterfalls and caves along the way.

Staying in a floating bungalow is fun, but waking up to the sun rising over the mountains, the mist hanging over the lake, and the chorus of birds and wildlife awakening is a truly unique experience. Take your kayak out for a paddle around the lake before breakfast, then head back to the mainland to carry on your adventure.

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Evening Street Food Tour in Chinatown, Bangkok

ETG’s Chinatown Night Walking tour is a fascinating culinary journey through one of Bangkok’s liveliest and most diverse districts.

Guided by a local expert, the tour takes you to seven eateries, ranging from air-conditioned restaurants to simple street food stands, where you will sample a range of this 200-year-old area’s heritage dishes. With a minimum of 11 well-considered dishes to sample, you will likely be quite full by the time you get to the end!

The menu will likely include steamed Dim Sum, Chinese herbal drinks, Chinese Bun, “Guau Jab” (a unique, peppery noodle soup), Lychee Ice Cream, Grilled King Prawns, Succulent Duck Cheek and Black Sesame Dumplings with Ginger Tea.

Bustling with activity, Chinatown is one of Bangkok’s most photogenic neighbourhoods. The tour lasts for approximately three hours, starting at 6pm, when this 24-hour district is just getting into full swing.

Between each tasting location, you will go on behind-the-scenes adventures to get a closer look at this unique neighbourhood: you will meet the food bazaar’s lively characters, hear memorable stories, and visit religious and cultural landmarks.

The tour can be taken privately, with a guide meeting you at your hotel, or as part of a group (if you would prefer to share the experience with other food lovers). The tour has been superbly researched to ensure you get the chance to taste some of the city’s best and safest street food from vendors with decades of experience and repeat customers.

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Discover Bangkok's Hidden Garden

Set on the banks of a small canal, Poomjai Garden is a welcome oasis right in the heart of the city.

What sets Poomjai apart is its commitment to sustainable practices and its unique collection of flora and fauna not typically found elsewhere in Bangkok. It is a fantastic environmental project that also functions as an organic farm and restaurant.

On your visit, you’ll join a guided tour of the grounds, learning about the diverse plant life and the range of animal species supported here. As part of the experience, you’ll also participate in a Thai dessert workshop. You’ll be provided with all the necessary ingredients and instructions to create a selection of delicious Thai desserts, such as Khanom Bua Loi (Small rice dumplings in a sweet coconut cream) and Khanom Tako (Thai pudding with a coconut topping).

An immersive experience where you can support a fantastic little project while enjoying a delicious lunch in a lovely garden setting.

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Overnight Sleeper Train in Thailand

Travelling by train in Thailand is a unique and memorable experience that offers a glimpse into the country’s cinematic landscapes and rich culture. The Thai railway system is extensive, covering most of the country, and has a range of train types to suit different budgets and preferences.

From the bustling city of Bangkok, you can board a train and journey through the lush countryside, passing by rice paddies, rolling hills, and charming villages. The slower pace of train travel allows you to take in the sights and sounds of your surroundings and to connect with local people and cultures along the way. 

One of Thailand’s most popular train routes is the Northern Line, which runs from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. This journey takes 11-12 hours, but sleeper trains make it an overnight option, with private cabins and beds.

Another popular train route is the Southern Line, which runs from Bangkok to the South with jumping-off points at Chumphon, Surat Thani (for Ko Samui or Khao Sok National Park), Trang and Hat Yai.

Here at ETG, we really recommend travelling by train at least once in your Thailand trip. Not only is a practical way to get around but it’s also often an adventure in itself: a great chance to see everyday life unfold and different landscapes in a unique way.

(It’s worth noting that it can often be tricky to obtain first-class tickets, as they are few and far between and sell out instantly. Second-class tickets are easier to obtain, and the carriage is still comfortable with air conditioning and seats that convert into sleeper beds).

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Cycle in Bangkok's 'Green Lung'

Take a short boat trip across the Chao Phraya River to Bangkrachao (or Bang Kra Jao), a jungly area nicknamed the ‘Bangkok’s Green Lung’. Sleepy Bang Kra Jao feels worlds away from the city’s energetic streets and is the perfect place for a peaceful two-hour bike ride.

Tropical plants and lush trees surround the roads in Bang Kra Jao, creating an urban sanctuary in the city centre. Cross over canals and admire the mangrove forests that line the waterways and pass traditional Thai houses and golden temples rarely visited by tourists. Stop to chit chat with people as you go, visit markets selling an array of fresh produce and refuel with snacks at one of the many street stalls en route.

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Multi-Transport Adventure in Bangkok

Travelling by public transport in Bangkok is fun, immersive and often much quicker than sitting in a car. Your guide will meet you at your hotel and take you on an exciting journey through the city’s bustling streets using a variety of local transport, each offering a unique experience.

You’ll zip through the traffic on a nimble three-wheeled tuk-tuk, glide above it all on the BTS Skytrain, or stroll along at your own pace and take in the sights and sounds of various atmospheric neighbourhoods.

You’ll have the chance to see some famous sights and some lesser-known gems, and your guide will take you deep into the city to places that are unreachable by taxi. It’s a great opportunity to get a glimpse of real life here and delve into Bangkok’s vibrant culture.

Leave some room in your belly because you’re in one of the world’s best foodie cities! With so many delicious street food options, you’ll want to try as many as possible.