Khao Lak: Bamboo Rafting & Sea Turtle Center Day Tour

Summary

Float Khao Lak’s river by bamboo raft meet sea turtles and swim at Ton Pling Waterfall

You’ll float down a peaceful river on a bamboo raft with a local boatman, visit Khao Lak’s sea turtle conservation center to see baby turtles up close, and swim beneath Ton Pling Waterfall surrounded by rainforest sounds. Expect moments of laughter, quiet reflection, and real connection to this corner of Thailand.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever tried steering one of these?” our boatman grinned, nodding at the bamboo raft as we stepped in. I laughed — honestly, I was just hoping not to fall in. The river in Khao Lak was still and brownish-green, with the jungle crowding right up to the banks. There was this sweet, earthy smell — like wet leaves after rain — and every now and then a bird would shout from somewhere you couldn’t see. Our guide, Pim, pointed out a snake curled on a branch (I pretended I didn’t hear that part). Floating along like that felt sort of unreal, like time slowed down for an hour or so.

After we got back on land (drier than I expected), we drove over to the sea turtle conservation center run by the Royal Thai Navy. It’s not flashy — tanks lined up under tin roofs, with baby turtles paddling around. Pim explained how they keep them safe until they’re strong enough for the ocean. I tried to say “hawksbill” in Thai — Li laughed when I butchered it. There was something kind of hopeful about watching those tiny turtles; you can tell people here care for them a lot.

The last stop was Ton Pling Waterfall. It’s popular but didn’t feel crowded that day — just a few local families picnicking under trees. The water was cold enough to make me gasp when I jumped in, but after sweating all morning it felt perfect. Sunlight flickered through the leaves and everything smelled green and alive. We just sat there awhile, feet dangling in the pool, not really talking much. Sometimes travel is loud but this bit was quiet — I still think about that moment sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bamboo rafting and nature visits

• Hotel pick-up in Khao Lak
• Float on bamboo raft with boatman
• Visit Sea Turtle Conservation Center
• Explore Ton Pling Waterfall and swim
• Return to hotel

Top questions

What time does the bamboo rafting tour in Khao Lak start?

The tour includes hotel pickup between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM in Khao Lak and nearby areas.

Is lunch included on this Khao Lak day trip?

No lunch is included, but soft drinks are provided during the tour.

Can children join the bamboo rafting & turtle tour?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels but infants must not sit on laps; infant seats aren’t available.

Where is the sea turtle conservation center located?

The Royal Thai Navy Third Fleet Turtle Nursery is near Khao Lak and is visited during the tour.

Is swimming allowed at Ton Pling Waterfall?

Yes, you can swim in small ponds at Ton Pling Waterfall during your visit.

Are entrance fees included in this day trip from Khao Lak?

Yes, national park entry fees are included in your booking.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

Yes, pickup from hotels in Khao Lak, Bang Niang, Khuk Khak and nearby areas is included.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from Khao Lak or nearby areas, all entry fees including national park access, soft drinks throughout the trip, air-conditioned transport between stops, and travel insurance before returning you back to your hotel at the end of the afternoon.