Ko Chang waterfall island

Ko Chang Island lies in the southeast of Thailand near the Cambodian border. It forms the heart of an awe-inspiring archipelago which remains relatively undiscovered by tourists. Ko Chang is a mountainous wilderness overgrown with lush forests, and its highest point reaches 744m. On the island you can take some challenging hikes that climb alongside waterfalls, or view the emerald wilderness atop an elephant. Of course, you don't have to do anything at all. You can simply laze in a hammock on one of the beautiful beaches, with a cocktail and a good book. You will find excellent snorkelling and diving on both islands. During this module, it's possible to arrange yourself a day trip to the idyllic island of Ko Mak just off Ko Chang, an untouched island paradise far from the masses, where you can daydream on palm-fringed white beaches. This is an ideal module to round off your Thailand trip, as Ko Chang Island is only 5 hours from Bangkok by road.

The town of Trat can be reached directly by scheduled bus from Bangkok or Korat; however you can also choose to fly there from Bangkok. If you are travelling from Cambodia you'll arrive in Trat by private transfer. After reaching the Trat bus station you'll continue travelling by songthaew, an open truck-taxi to the Laem Ngob pier (travel time 20 minutes). You'll then board the ferry to the white sandy beaches of Khlong Phrao. This ferry departs all day long, every 45 minutes. The ferry boat ride to Ko Chang island will only take 30 minutes. On arrival at the island you'll be able to arrange your own transfer to the island easily (the 20 minute transfer will cost approximately £2-3). After checking in at the reception area and leaving your bags in your charming beach bungalow, you'll be able to dive into the luke-warm waters of Ko Chang's crystal blue sea. The resort is located on the beach and has its own small private beach. From the pool you'll be able to listen to the calming sea surf and the sound of chattering tropical birds. 

Ko Chang is the second largest island in Thailand and an oasis for adventure-seeking travellers. An unusual and interesting way to explore the island is to do so on elephant's back during a one-hour (10 Euros) or two-hour tour (18 Euros). Wobble along from rubber plantations to tropical orchards. During the two-hour trek you'll head into the jungle to see elephants washing themselves in a natural pool of crystal clear waters. This is a fabulously refreshing moment for both you and your jumbo-size friend. These excursions can easily be arranged on location at a small travel agency across from your resort. A little further down the road you can book snorkelling and boating tours. Another option would be to explore the island in search of its famed waterfalls or to climb the highest mountain top. If you're bringing your kids along on holiday, they'll love the Tree Top Adventure Park. You and your kids can walk across rope bridges through the tops of the trees and swing down to the ground like monkeys (wearing protective harnesses). There are a hundred and one things to do on this island or choose to do absolutely nothing at all; simply reading a book and enjoying your surroundings can be..... pure paradise.

This morning, why not arrange yourself a day trip over to Ko Mak, it's very easy to arrange locally. Boats leave from Ban Bang Bao Pier on the south side of the island, for the short ride (approx 2 hours) over to Ko Mak. Ko Mak is far quieter than Phuket, Ko Samui, and Ko Chang - a real island escape. It is the ultimate destination for doing absolutely nothing. Bliss. Lounge in a hammock for the day, swim in the sparkling sea, sip on fruity cocktails and feel the sand between your toes. Have lunch at one of the many little restaurants, they all offer a wide range of meals, with freshly caught seafood their speciality. You can also snorkel around the unspoiled coral gardens (gear available for hire), or just stretch out on the bleached sandy beach. At low tide, it's possible to walk across to the nearby island of Ko Kham, which has beautiful coral reefs and coconut palms. If you don't fancy anything this energectic, then stay on Ko Chang and unwind. At dusk lots of resturants will fire up the barbecues, and you can sit on the candlelit beach, cold beer or tropical drink in hand, and try all kinds of tasty treats as you listen to the lapping of the waves.

Since you'll most likely fly home tomorrow, you may want to enjoy a genuine Thai massage today. This type of massage is only for those who prefer a very strong, rigorous massage. Afterwards you'll feel like a new person. The resort has its own massage area; it's best to make reservations in advance. 

After breakfast today this modules ends. If you'd like we can arrange a transfer to take you to Ko Chang pier and arrange your ferry tickets back over to the mainland for you. Depending on your plans you can travel back to Bangkok or onto Cambodia.