Hi there, I’m Kolin, a passionate traveler, nature enthusiast, and photography instructor. Over the past 20 years, I’ve explored more than 50 countries across all 7 continents, capturing the beauty and stories of each place I visit—from the jungles of Borneo to the icy shores of Antarctica. My travels have taken me through diverse landscapes and cultures, always driven by my love for discovering the hidden wonders of the world and sharing those moments through my camera.
I created this Phuket to Khao Sok Southern Explorer because I believe travel is the ultimate way to connect with nature, immerse yourself in local culture, and create unforgettable memories. This journey is about exploring Thailand’s wild side — hiking through lush forests, reaching sunrise viewpoints with breathtaking views, and capturing the stunning landscapes that make this region so special. It’s not just a trip; it’s an opportunity to learn new skills, tell your own stories, and see the world through a new lens.
If you’re ready for an adventure that combines exploration, learning, and the chance to experience the raw beauty of Southern Thailand, I’d love for you to join me. Together, we’ll go beyond the surface and uncover the true spirit of this incredible region. Come along—let’s create unforgettable moments and capture the essence of Thailand’s wild side!
Chasing the light as well as the out-of-this-world nature and local culture of Southern Thailand has never been easier on this eight-day immersive journey that combines jungle exploration with a chance to uncover the raw beauty of this part of the country. Each day is designed for those who see the world through a lens of wonder, as you capture Thailand’s best angles everywhere you go. From hands-on encounters with rescued gibbons and elephants to treks through the lush rainforest, to boat safaris where you’re sure to spot some species in their natural habitat, Thailand is yours to uncover. Deepen your knowledge of Thailand’s vibrant culture with a visit to the Phuket community, and see nature’s brushstrokes give life to Cheow Lan Lake. Grab your cameras to find inspiration in the wild, and be prepared to take some unforgettable postcard-worthy shots of Southern Thailand.
-Welcome adventurers and photographers to your wild Thailand escape. Upon arrival at the airport in Phuket, you’ll meet up with your group to be transferred to your hotel that lies just minutes from the tranquility of Nai Yang Beach and Sirinat National Park.
-Check into your hotel, have some time to unwind, or go on a nature walk to Sirinat National Park.
-Take in your stunning natural surroundings before the evening rolls around, where you’ll have dinner at Lagoon Villa by the water’s edge.Feast on a combination of local flavors and international cuisine with the golden light and lagoon setting creates a magical scene around you. Capture your first creative shots, which sets the tone for a week of inspiration and connection.
-Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before heading to the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project in the Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Sanctuary. You'll learn about the center’s work rescuing and rehabilitating gibbons, most of which live in enclosures as part of their long-term care or rewilding journey. While the gibbons are not free-roaming, this is a chance to witness real conservation in action and even help prepare “energy balls” delivered to them through a special feeding system. Your leader, Kolin, has volunteered with the project for over seven years and is deeply passionate about animal welfare and conservation. Although sightings are rare, if we’re lucky, we might spot one of the previously released gibbon families returning to the forest canopy. Keep an eye out for other wildlife too, such as racket-tailed drongos, flying lemurs, flying dragons, and golden orb-weaver spiders.
-Once the afternoon rolls around, wander back in time by visiting the pastel-hued streets of Phuket Old Town, famous for its Sino-Portuguese architecture and lively markets. Capture the serene gaze of the Big Buddha, towering at a massive height above the island, and the ornate halls of Wat Chalong with your camera. Whether it's capturing the peaceful serenity of a Buddhist temple or the energy of a busy local market, this tour will offer a diverse range of subjects and perspectives, giving you the chance to document the essence of this island from various angles.
-Afterwards, return back to your hotel and have some free time to check out the sunset at Banana Beach, to snap the changing light and vibrant scenes.
-Start your day fresh with breakfast at the hotel followed by a visit to the Phuket Community where you’ll receive a warm welcome with local sweets and drinks to then hop into crafting your own batik handbag, learning how to harvest fresh pineapple, and joining experts in the field for a rubber tapping demonstration. You’ll then challenge yourself with coconut picking from the trees, as you capture local life in action. Additionally, you’ll take part in a cooking workshop where you’ll learn how to make local dishes, and will taste what you make for lunch.
-In the afternoon, you'll visit Hidden Forest, the most ethical elephant sanctuary on the island, offering a rare chance to observe Asian elephants behaving as naturally as possible outside the wild. Here, retired elephants roam, graze, and bathe freely in a lush, open valley with the iconic Big Buddha in the distance. You'll join a peaceful, guided walk to see each elephant in their own space, learning about their unique personalities and histories. Your tour leader, Kolin, has close ties to this project and is proud to share the incredible work being done to give these elephants a safe, dignified retirement. It's a meaningful opportunity to photograph these gentle giants as they simply enjoy life—telling a story of freedom, healing, and respect.
-Afterwards, return to your hotel and tuck in for the night, or go out and explore Phuket’s beach nightlife scene.
-Today we begin our next adventure into the stunning region of Phang Nga with an early wake-up and a one-hour drive to the breathtaking Samet Nangshe Viewpoint. From there, we’ll jump into an adventurous mountain truck ride to the top—where, if we’re lucky, we’ll witness and capture one of the most spectacular sunrises of your Thailand journey. With your breakfast packed to go, you’ll enjoy a peaceful meal with panoramic views over the limestone karsts rising from the misty Andaman Sea below.
-After sunrise, we descend to meet our friendly traditional longtail boat captain, who will whisk us through the emerald waters of Phang Nga Bay. Towering limestone formations surround us as we explore this dreamlike seascape.
-We’ll make a quick photo stop at the legendary James Bond Island, then slow the pace with a relaxing, guided kayaking experience through sea caves and hidden lagoons—revealing the quiet magic of this coastal paradise.
-Next, enjoy a delicious Thai lunch atop a scenic hill, taking in one last sweeping view of the bay before continuing inland. From there, we drive to the lush, jungle-covered landscape of Khao Sok National Park, where you'll check into your new hotel nestled in nature.
-The rest of the evening is yours to unwind, soak in the surrounding rainforest, and capture the jungle’s serene transition from daylight to dusk—when the forest begins to hum with life and mystery.
-After having breakfast at the hotel, venture into Khao Sok National Park, one of the world’s oldest rainforests. Often referred to as Thailand’s last true wilderness, Khao Sok is home to a stunning variety of wildlife. If you’re lucky, you may spot wild elephants, gibbons, hornbills, barking deer, or even the elusive clouded leopard. Trek under dense canopies, listen for hornbills and gibbons, and photograph the surreal limestone cliffs shrouded in mist. You’ll also hear tales from the local guides about their deep knowledge of the forest and the uses of some medicinal plants.
-Then, you’ll have some free time in the afternoon to visit a local village, practice yoga by the river, simply relax and reflect, or take a bamboo raft down the river.
-As night falls, join a thrilling night safari to spot nocturnal creatures and experiment with low-light photography, seeing the darkened forest come to life.
-Return back to your hotel with memories of the forest’s active nocturnal life.
-Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before heading to Cheow Lan Lake, a stunning natural wonder.
-Board a traditional longtail boat to navigate the emerald waters of Khao Sok National Park, where limestone cliffs create breathtaking vistas—perfect for photography.
-Upon arrival at your floating bungalow, enjoy a delicious Thai lunch before checking in. Spend the afternoon swimming, kayaking, or relaxing in this serene paradise.
-Later, embark on a boat safari along the shore to spot wildlife like dusky langurs and hornbills as the jungle glows in the late afternoon light.
-Return at dusk for a peaceful night at the bungalow. If it's clear, indulge in memorable stargazing, with the lake's ambiance lulling you to sleep.
-Begin your morning with an early boat safari on Cheow Lan Lake, designed to catch the breathtaking sunrise and observe active wildlife. As dawn breaks, mist rises from the water, and the lake comes alive with bird calls and the gentle ripple of mirror-like waters. This is the perfect time for photography and to experience the tranquil beauty of Thailand’s wilderness.
-After about three hours of exploring, return to your floating bungalow for breakfast and checkout.
-Later, make your way back to the mainland, arriving at the pier in the late morning for lunch at a local restaurant. Take this time to reflect on the stunning scenery and memorable moments of your journey through the jungle and water.
-From Khao Sok National Park, transfer to Phuket, arriving at your hotel where you can relax and unwind.
-To conclude your trip, gather for a farewell meal at a beachfront restaurant, where you’ll enjoy five delicious Thai dishes and will share your favorite photos and stories from the journey as the sun sets over the Andaman Sea.
-Today is sadly your last day! After a final breakfast at the hotel and checking out, you’ll transfer with your group to Phuket International Airport.
-Depart the Land of Smiles with a camera roll full of vibrant images and a deeper appreciation for Thailand’s breathtaking nature, you’ll feel like you’ve captured your own Thailand story in real time. Have a safe flight and come back soon!