One Day Tour Khao Sok Cheow Lan Lake from Krabi

Taking a day trip from Krabi to Khao Sok’s Cheow Lan Lake promises a mix of breathtaking scenery, jungle adventures, and cultural glimpses. This tour, operated by Oh-Hoo, is pretty popular, with an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5 based on 140 reviews. It’s an all-inclusive experience that features pickup, scenic boat rides, hikes, and a hearty Thai lunch on a floating restaurant.

What we find appealing about this tour is the way it offers a comprehensive taste of Khao Sok’s natural beauty—without the hassle of self-driving or arranging multiple activities on your own. The tour’s leisurely pace, combined with its knowledgeable guides, makes it a solid choice for anyone craving a taste of Thailand’s jungle and lake magic.

However, a few concerns come up in reviews—mainly related to the long travel times, the group size, and some expectations about food and guide communication. While the scenery is undoubtedly stunning, the overall value depends heavily on your expectations for a full day of adventure and relaxation. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy boat rides, light hiking, and scenic spots, and don’t mind a long day on the road.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: The limestone pinnacles and emerald waters of Cheow Lan Lake are genuinely captivating.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Door-to-door transfers, meals, and park fees are covered, simplifying your day.
• Activities: Expect boat cruises, kayaking, a jungle hike, and a visit to a hidden cave.
• Group Size & Duration: The tour generally involves a group of up to 25 people, with a long day that can stretch to 10 hours.
• Guide Quality: Respondents mention helpful guides, especially Tuk Tuk, who shares interesting details about the lake’s origins.
• Value for Money: While some reviewers feel the price is high, many appreciate the smooth organization and the variety of experiences.

An In-Depth Look at the Khao Sok Cheow Lan Lake Tour

Starting the Day: Convenient Pickup and Scenic Drive

The tour kicks off early at 7:00 am, with free hotel pickup available in Krabi, Ao Nang, Klong Muang, and Tub Kaek. This is a huge plus—no need to stress about finding meeting points or navigating local transport. On the day we reviewed, travelers appreciated that the vans were air-conditioned, making the long drive more comfortable, even if it’s approximately 2 to 2.5 hours each way.

The drive itself offers a window into local life, as the route crosses into Surat Thani Province. Here, you’ll see typical rural scenes—palm trees, rubber plantations, and small communities—before arriving at Cheow Lan Pier. Several reviews mention the long journey but agree it’s worth it for the scenery and the experience awaiting you.

The Boat Ride: Surreal Views and Photo Opportunities

Once at Cheow Lan Pier, the adventure begins with a traditional longtail boat cruise across the lake. This is arguably the highlight—taking in the towering limestone pinnacles that rise sharply from the water, creating a landscape that feels straight out of a fantasy novel.

One of the most praised spots is Khao Sam Kloe, a panoramic viewpoint where everyone stops for a photo. Travelers frequently comment on how “breathtaking” and “surreal” the views are, with some saying the boat ride alone makes the trip worthwhile. The boat cruise lasts about two hours, during which you are free to take photos or just soak in the tranquility.

Lunch in a Floating Restaurant: A Local Feast on the Water

Midday, the tour includes a Thai lunch at a floating restaurant—a relaxing break amid nature. The food usually gets good reviews, with many noting the quality and authenticity of the meal. One reviewer described it as a “yummy” experience, and others appreciated the chance to unwind by the water after a morning of sightseeing.

Some critics mention that the lunch can be a bit basic or disappointing, but overall, most find it a delightful way to rest and recharge. The floating restaurant’s setting adds a special touch, making it more than just a meal—it’s a part of the adventure.

Water Activities and Jungle Hike: Relaxing and Adventurous

Post-lunch, the focus shifts to more active pursuits. You have the option to swim, kayak, or simply relax by the water. Many reviewers enjoyed paddling around or taking a dip in the lake, although some pointed out that the ladder into the water was mossy and poorly designed—a potential hazard for less confident swimmers.

The highlight for many is the hike to the hidden Coral Cave or Nam Ta Lu Cave within Khao Sok National Park. The hike lasts about an hour and takes you through lush greenery, leading to astonishing coral rock formations that protrude from the ground and ceiling. Multiple reviews refer to this part as “beautiful” and “well worth the effort,” though some mention the hike might be challenging for those with limited mobility or little hiking experience. A few reviewers, like Emily, found the overall experience boring or too long, especially if the group was large and the guide’s commentary was limited.

Visiting Khao Sam Kloe and the Scenic Route

A quick but popular stop is at Khao Sam Kloe—another prime photo spot. Here, visitors can record their visit with a souvenir photo of the limestone towers. The stop lasts around 20 minutes and is often highlighted as a must-see snapshot of the lake’s striking landscape.

The return journey takes you through mountain ridges and local villages, providing a glimpse into rural Thai life. It’s a 2-hour drive back to Krabi, with some reviews mentioning the driver’s aggressive style, which could make the ride uncomfortable for sensitive travelers.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

While the tour offers a fantastic day out with unforgettable scenery, it’s not without its quirks. The long travel times and the group size can make it feel a bit rushed or crowded. For some travelers, the price feels steep given the duration and the level of activity—especially if expectations about adventure or wildlife encounters aren’t met.

That said, many participants, like Geraldine, found it “incredible” and “absolutely worth the ride.” The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, especially Tuk Tuk, who made an effort to share interesting facts about the lake’s origins and conservation efforts. The combination of boat rides, scenic viewpoints, and the opportunity to relax on floating decks makes this tour appealing for those wanting a full day immersed in nature.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• What to bring: Pack swimwear, a dry T-shirt for after hiking, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, and a small backpack for water bottles and personal items.
• Hiking considerations: The trek to Coral Cave is about an hour and involves some rough trails—wear sturdy shoes, like sports or trekking shoes.
• Timing: Be prepared for a long day—early start at 7 am and return around 7-8 pm. It’s a full but rewarding experience.
• Group size: Expect up to 25 travelers, which might be crowded for some but usually manageable with friendly guides.
• Food: Enjoy a decent Thai lunch, though expectations should be realistic if you’re used to gourmet fare.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour to Khao Sok’s Cheow Lan Lake offers a well-rounded introduction to one of Thailand’s most stunning natural spots. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, light hikes, and relaxing lakeside moments. The inclusions—door-to-door transfers, meals, and park fees—add to the convenience, making it easier to focus on the experience rather than logistics.

While it may not satisfy those seeking high-adrenaline adventure or wildlife encounters, it delivers on the promise of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and peaceful relaxation. The guides tend to be knowledgeable and friendly, and the scenery is genuinely unforgettable. For those wanting to see the highlights of Khao Sok in a single day without fuss, this tour strikes a good balance of value and experience—just remember it’s a long day and the scenery is the star.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Krabi to Khao Sok?
The journey takes around 2 to 2.5 hours each way, depending on traffic. It’s a comfortable van ride, but be prepared for a longer transfer.

What is included in the tour price?
The cost covers hotel pickup, air-conditioned transportation, boat rides, lunch, drinking water, coffee, fruits, life jackets, accident insurance, and the national park fee.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children aged 4 and above can join, but the hike to Coral Cave lasts about an hour and may be challenging for very young or less mobile kids. Always check with the tour provider for specific recommendations.

How much time is spent on the boat cruise?
The boat cruise on Cheow Lan Lake lasts approximately two hours, giving plenty of opportunity for photos and enjoying the scenery.

What should I bring for the hike?
Wear sturdy shoes suitable for rough trails, bring mosquito repellent, sunscreen, a dry T-shirt for after trekking, and a small backpack for personal belongings.

Is food provided?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a Thai lunch at a floating restaurant and some light snacks and fruits during the day.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Expect stunning limestone pinnacles, photo stops at Khao Sam Kloe, kayaking or swimming opportunities, and a jungle hike to Coral Cave.

Can I customize this tour?
The tour operates with a fixed itinerary, but you can communicate special requests or concerns directly with the provider. Note that the tour requires a minimum of two travelers and may be canceled if this isn’t met.

In essence, this tour is a solid pick for travelers looking to see Khao Sok’s famous lake and lush jungle in one manageable day. If you’re okay with a long day, enjoy scenic boat rides, and want a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure, you’ll likely find this experience worthwhile.