The most wonderful escape in our summer trip to Thailand was 2 days at Elephant Hills. It was only 2 days because our teenage boys were worried they would be bored without wifi. There was wifi actually but they never found out about it- they were too busy enjoying themselves!
The first night we spent at the Jungle Camp, which has the most amazing setting with the Pitonesque peaks of the Khao Sok national park towering over the swimming pool. We went on an exciting group kayak with our guides pointing out local snakes and birds and then we went to see the elephants: we are no strangers to elephants, but this was a totally different experience. These elephants have been rescued from captivity and are spending their retirement at Elephant Hills. We just hung out with them for an hour or so- hosing them down, hugging them, feeding them, but not riding them. It was amazing: the elephants were earning their keep by spending time with us, but we were doing things they enjoyed and it felt like it was more on their terms- and totally totally different to any interaction I’ve ever had with elephants before.
The next day we set off for a night at the lake camp- which can only be reached by boat, a half hour trip across Cheow Lan Lake surrounded by jaw droppingly beautiful scenery of jungle clad limestone karsts. The camp hugs the edge of the lake, with its dozen cabins, built on the water, providing the most idyllic setting. The camp is in an area of the lake inhabited by five families of gibbons, whose calls let you know they are there. From each cabin door you can jump into the bath temperature lake or into your own kayak. It was a heart warming sight to see our boys heading across the water together with all the other children in their kayaks to try and spot the gibbons in the trees. We spent the days kayaking down little tributaries, with our guides pointing out wildlife and we also did the most unforgettable trek deep into a snake and bat filled cave which was as terrifying as it was fascinating.
Our guides were charming, informative and attentive throughout and our guide Nan was tireless in dealing with all our questions and needs. The accommodation was perfectly luxurious for a jungle camp and the food always delicious. When it was time to leave, we were very sad and when our children asked why we had to leave so soon I reminded them that it was at their insistence we had stayed such a short time and they had the good grace to grimace sheepishly.
Our next destination was Koh Samui and the boys found a wifi spot at the ferry terminal and plugged themselves in immediately, but I noticed they didn’t look as carefree and relaxed as they had at Elephant Hills.
Elephant Hills is easily combinable with beach holidays in Koh Samui, Phuket, Krabi and Khao Lak and can all be reached by plane and train from Bangkok – they will collect and drop off from all these locations. It’s prefect for families and also equally good for anyone looking for a rainforest and wildlife adventure with a very responsible ethos. Call us to talk about trips to Elephant Hills and holidays to Thailand.
by TMS