Kayaking in Krabi: Emerald Pool, Hot Springs & Ao Thalane

A natural hot spring waterfall sits inside the jungle, and you walk to it before the kayaking starts.

This full-day jungle tour in Krabi combines three water stops—a hot spring waterfall, the mineral-green Emerald Pool, and a kayak through Ao Thalane's mangrove forest—with a guide who speaks English or Thai, hotel pickup from Ao Nang or Krabi Town, lunch and bottled water. The itinerary moves through swimming, walking and paddling across roughly eight to nine hours, suitable for any fitness level.

Step-by-step itinerary

Hot Springs, Emerald Pool, and Kayaking

• Visit Hot Spring Waterfall
• Walk nature trail to jungle pool
• Swim in mineral Emerald Pool
• Walk to Blue Lagoon viewpoint
• Kayak in Ao Thalane mangroves
• Transfer back to hotel

The Experience

You get picked up from your hotel in Ao Nang, Krabi Town or Klong Muang and driven to the first stop: a hot spring waterfall tucked into the jungle. A nature trail leads you through the forest to a freshwater pool fed by warm water from the limestone hills—the soothing feeling of the warm water as it swirls around you is the draw. After soaking, you walk back out and head to the Emerald Pool, a 120-square-meter pond with a mysterious green hue from the minerals in the surrounding limestone. The water is clear enough to swim in, and just a short walk uphill sits the Blue Lagoon, another pool ringed by overhanging trees with roots that stretch across the water.

The kayaking happens at Ao Thalane, where you paddle through mangrove forests and watch for wildlife among the trees. The route takes you through the kinds of animals and scenery that make the area worth the paddle. Lunch and bottled water are provided during the day, and the guide handles the logistics of getting you back to your hotel safely when the tour ends.

What’s included

• Hotel pickup from Ao Nang, Krabi Town or Klong Muang.
• lunch and bottled water throughout the day.
• accident insurance.
• a live guide in English or Thai.

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Parallel Tour

Is this one for you?If you're arriving without a car or staying outside walking distance of the trailheads, the included pickup from your hotel means you skip the logistics of finding transport to three separate jungle sites—the guide handles the route and timing, so the day holds together without you building it.

Top questions

What is the Emerald Pool actually like when you get there?

The Emerald Pool is a 120-square-meter freshwater pond with a green tint caused by minerals from the limestone hills surrounding it. You can swim in the clear water, and it sits just below the Blue Lagoon, a second pool ringed by large overhanging trees with roots extending across the surface.

How much kayaking is involved, and what will I see paddling at Ao Thalane?

Kayaking at Ao Thalane is a core part of the day, where you paddle through mangrove forests and watch for wildlife among the trees. The exact distance and duration depend on conditions, but the route is designed to show you the animals and scenery that make the area distinctive.

Is a guide included, and what language do they speak?

A live guide is included and speaks English or Thai, depending on the group. The guide handles the day's logistics and leads you through each stop.

What does the tour include, and what should I bring?

The tour includes hotel pickup from Ao Nang, Krabi Town or Klong Muang; lunch; bottled water; and accident insurance. Bring a towel, swimwear, sun protection and a change of clothes; towels are not provided by the operator.

How long is the full day, and is it physically demanding?

The tour runs eight to nine hours and is suitable for all fitness levels. It combines walking through jungle trails, swimming in pools and paddling a kayak, so you get a mix of activities rather than one sustained effort.

Can I do this tour if I'm staying outside Krabi Town?

Hotel pickup is free from Ao Nang, Krabi Town and Klong Muang. If you're staying elsewhere in the area, check with the operator about pickup availability before booking.