Exploring Khao Sok with Teenagers

A Thrilling Jungle Adventure

Khao Sok National Park offers a magical escape into one of Thailand’s most pristine rainforests, with dramatic karst mountains, lush valleys, serene lakes, and an array of wildlife. While Khao Sok is an enchanting destination for travellers of all ages, it’s especially exciting for families with teenagers, as it provides a more adventurous and active experience.

This blog will guide you through a 3-day, teen-friendly itinerary that includes activities like tubing, jungle safaris, and staying in floating huts on the breathtaking Cheow Lan Lake. Plus, we’ll highlight the best accommodation options for families with teenagers at Our Jungle House, one of the premier eco-resorts in the area.

Day 1: Arriving at Khao Sok and Tubing Adventure

Upon arrival in Khao Sok, you’ll feel the thrill of the jungle atmosphere immediately. Whether you’re coming from Surat Thani by flight or an overnight train from Bangkok, Khao Sok’s towering limestone cliffs and dense greenery create a breathtaking introduction to this natural wonder.

Your first day kicks off with a gentle, but scenic tubing experience down the Khao Sok River. As you float along, you’ll be surrounded by towering trees, exotic birds, and maybe even spot a few monkeys swinging from the branches. Tubing is a fun and laid-back way to introduce teenagers to the jungle, while still providing a bit of adventure. If the water levels are low, you can opt for a canoe tour, which offers a similar experience with a bit more control.

In the evening, the adventure amps up with a short night safari in the park. As the sun sets over the jungle, the nighttime symphony of wildlife begins. Armed with flashlights, you and your family will explore the darkening forest with an experienced guide who will help you spot nocturnal animals like bats, frogs, and even the elusive jungle cat. The sounds of insects, birds, and the rustle of animals make this a thrilling experience for curious teenagers.

You’ll end your first day staying at one of the treehouses in Our Jungle Camp or Our Jungle House Eco Resorts, both situated along the Sok River. These treehouses provide a rustic yet comfortable experience, perfect for families looking for an immersive jungle stay. Teenagers will especially enjoy the novelty of staying in a treehouse, surrounded by the sounds and sights of the jungle.

Day 2: Cheow Lan Lake and Floating Hut Adventure

On Day 2, the adventure intensifies with a trip to Cheow Lan Lake, located in the heart of Khao Sok National Park. Known for its emerald waters and towering limestone cliffs, this lake is a highlight for anyone visiting the region, but especially for teenagers seeking a unique experience.

After a stop at a local market for snacks, you’ll board a long tail boat that will take you to the floating bungalows on the lake. These simple but charming huts, situated on the water, offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in nature. While the accommodation is basic, the experience of staying on a lake surrounded by lush jungle and cliffs is something your teens will never forget.

Once you’ve settled into your floating bungalow, the real adventure begins. Depending on weather conditions and guide recommendations, you’ll set off on a jungle hike to a viewpoint, explore a cave, or go on a boat safari. Your teenagers will love the freedom to explore the wild, untamed beauty of the jungle in a hands-on way.

The day ends with a sunset dinner in the floating bungalow, where you can enjoy fresh fish and other local delicacies while gazing at the starry night sky. There’s something magical about being completely surrounded by nature, with no Wi-Fi or distractions – just the sounds of the jungle and the calm water lapping beneath your hut.

Day 3: Morning Safari and Departure

Day 3 starts early with a morning boat safari along the shores of Cheow Lan Lake. This is a great opportunity to spot wildlife such as gibbons, macaques, hornbills, and other exotic creatures in their natural habitat. Teenagers will love the thrill of searching for these animals as the mist rises off the lake in the early morning light.

After a relaxing breakfast and swim in the lake, you’ll return to the mainland, concluding your adventure in Khao Sok. From here, you can choose to continue your travels to a beach destination such as Krabi or Koh Phangan, or spend another night in Khao Sok to soak in the beauty of the region a little longer.

Accommodations at Our Jungle House: Perfect for Families with Teenagers

Our Jungle House offers a variety of unique accommodations, perfect for families traveling with teenagers. The following room categories are particularly suited to families with older children:

• Loft Treehouses: These spacious treehouses offer two separate bedrooms, giving teens the privacy they crave while still keeping the family close together. Set higher in the jungle, they provide a thrilling sense of adventure.
• Park View Treehouses: With stunning views of the surrounding jungle, these treehouses offer a perfect blend of comfort and excitement. They also feature separate bedrooms, which is ideal for families with teenagers who appreciate their own space.
• Cliff 1 and Cliff 2 Bungalows: These bungalows are located deeper in the jungle, offering a more remote and adventurous experience. Like the treehouses, they also feature separate bedrooms, making them a great option for families with older kids.
• Nature Bungalow: For those who want to be closer to the action, this bungalow provides a comfortable space with two separate bedrooms, allowing for a mix of adventure and convenience.

All of these accommodations at Our Jungle House offer a unique blend of adventure and comfort, with the added bonus of being deep in the jungle. The separate sleeping areas make these rooms ideal for families with teenagers, ensuring everyone has their own space to relax after a day full of adventure.

Additional Activities for Teenagers in Khao Sok

While the tubing, jungle hikes, and lake exploration are all thrilling for teenagers, there are plenty of other activities to keep them entertained during your stay in Khao Sok.

• River Rafting: For a more fast-paced adventure, consider booking a river rafting experience. This is an excellent way to introduce teens to the excitement of navigating the jungle waterways while keeping the adrenaline pumping.
• Cave Exploration: The caves around Khao Sok, particularly the Pakarang Cave, offer a spooky and thrilling underground adventure that teens are sure to love. Exploring these caves by flashlight is an exciting way to delve deeper into the park’s unique geology and wildlife.
• Night Safaris: While your itinerary includes a short night safari, you can book additional night hikes to explore more of the jungle after dark. With only the light of a headlamp, these safaris feel like stepping into another world, full of the mysterious sounds and creatures of the night.

Why Khao Sok is Ideal for Families with Teenagers

Khao Sok is the perfect destination for families with teenagers because it strikes the right balance between adventure and natural beauty. The activities are varied and engaging enough to keep even the most restless teens entertained, and the setting – deep in one of the oldest rainforests in the world – provides a sense of awe and wonder that will leave a lasting impression.

Unlike many destinations, Khao Sok offers teenagers the chance to disconnect from technology and engage with nature on a deeper level. Whether it’s spotting wildlife on a morning safari, jumping into the lake from a floating hut, or hiking through the jungle, the experiences here are immersive and memorable.

Planning Your Trip

If you’re planning a trip to Khao Sok with your family, keep in mind that the best time to visit is between November and April, when the weather is drier and more comfortable for jungle activities. However, even during the rainy season, the park is lush and beautiful, and many tourists enjoy tubing and rafting in the rain.

For families with teenagers, we recommend booking at least three days in Khao Sok to fully enjoy all the park has to offer. Whether you’re staying at Our Jungle House or Our Jungle Camp, you’ll find a range of activities and accommodation options suited to your family’s needs.

Conclusion

Khao Sok is a true gem for families seeking adventure, and it’s an especially exciting destination for teenagers. With its stunning landscapes, thrilling activities, and eco-friendly accommodations, Khao Sok provides an unforgettable experience that will bring your family closer together.

From tubing down the Khao Sok River to sleeping in floating huts on Cheow Lan Lake, the adventures here are endless. So, pack your bags, grab your hiking boots, and get ready for the jungle adventure of a lifetime!