Family Adventure in Khao Sok National Park, Thailand

Into the Wilds of Khao Sok

Today was all about embracing the raw, untamed beauty of Khao Sok National Park. We traded our usual comforts for a day of jungle trekking and waterfall chasing, and it was absolutely worth it. Sophie was especially excited, armed with her little backpack and a sense of adventure that matched her bright, curious eyes. Jean-Pierre, ever the pragmatist, made sure we were all well-prepared with water and snacks. As for me, I was just eager to capture it all through my lens, hoping to bottle up the essence of this incredible place.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Little Wild Cafe Khao Sok. The cafe was charming, and the coffee was strong—exactly what I needed to fuel up for our first adventure. It seemed like a popular spot, with other travelers gathering to plan their day's excursions. Sophie enjoyed a pastry, and Jean-Pierre and I savored the local coffee, making a mental note to try and recreate it back home in Lyon. The staff were friendly, and the atmosphere was buzzing with anticipation for the day ahead.

With our appetites satisfied, we set off for the Ton Kloi Waterfall Trail. The trailhead was easy to find, and the path was well-maintained, which was a relief since I'm always a bit nervous about navigating unfamiliar terrain. As we started our hike, the sounds of the jungle enveloped us—the chirping of insects, the rustling of leaves, and the occasional call of a distant bird. Sophie was immediately captivated, pointing out every interesting plant and creature she spotted. Jean-Pierre, with his keen eye for detail, helped us identify different species of trees and flowers. I felt a sense of gratitude for this moment, for the chance to share such a unique experience with my family.

The hike itself was relatively easy, perfect for a family with a young child. The trail wound through lush vegetation, and the air was thick with humidity. We passed towering trees, giant ferns, and vibrant orchids, each vying for our attention. I couldn't resist stopping every few minutes to snap photos, trying to capture the sheer abundance of life around us. Sophie even managed to spot a few colorful butterflies, which she excitedly chased for a few moments before they flitted away.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

After about an hour of hiking, we finally reached the Ton Kloi Waterfall. It was even more beautiful than I had imagined—a multi-tiered cascade of cool, clear water tumbling down moss-covered rocks. The sound of the waterfall was incredibly soothing, a welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Without hesitation, Sophie stripped down to her swimsuit and plunged into the refreshing water. Jean-Pierre and I followed suit, relishing the chance to cool off after our trek. We spent a blissful hour swimming, splashing, and simply enjoying the natural beauty around us. It was moments like these that made all the planning and preparation worthwhile.


Discover the serene beauty of Ton Kloi Waterfall Trail in Surat Thani, a must-visit hiking destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

As the afternoon approached, we reluctantly packed up and began our hike back to the trailhead. We made a quick stop at the Everything shop. I managed to find a small, hand-carved elephant figurine—a perfect souvenir to remind us of our time in Khao Sok. Sophie, of course, wanted everything she saw, but we managed to negotiate a small selection of local candies, which she happily munched on as we continued our journey.

Our next destination was Khlong Phanom National Park. This park is a bit of a hidden gem, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Khao Sok. But that's precisely what made it so appealing to me—the chance to explore a less-traveled path, to discover a place that felt truly untouched. The drive to Khlong Phanom was scenic, with glimpses of towering limestone cliffs and dense jungle.

Upon arriving, we quickly realized that Khlong Phanom was a different beast altogether. While Khao Sok felt relatively accessible and well-trodden, Khlong Phanom was raw, rugged, and untamed. The trails were less defined, and the jungle felt denser, more alive. We decided to hire a local guide, a wise decision given the park's challenging terrain. Our guide, a wiry man with a wealth of knowledge about the local flora and fauna, led us deep into the heart of the park.

The hike through Khlong Phanom was more strenuous than our earlier trek to Ton Kloi Waterfall. The path was steep and uneven, and we had to navigate over rocks and fallen logs. But the challenge was exhilarating, and the scenery was breathtaking. We passed ancient caves adorned with neolithic paintings, remnants of a time long past. Our guide pointed out rare orchids and towering trees, sharing stories about the park's rich biodiversity.

Despite the humidity, Sophie was a trooper, gamely scrambling over rocks and keeping up with our pace. Jean-Pierre, ever the supportive husband, offered her a hand whenever she needed it. I was in my element, capturing the stunning landscapes and the vibrant details of the jungle. It was a true adventure, a chance to push ourselves beyond our comfort zones and experience the raw beauty of nature.

As dusk began to settle, we made our way out of Khlong Phanom, feeling tired but incredibly fulfilled. We had pushed ourselves, challenged our limits, and discovered a hidden corner of Thailand that few tourists ever see. It was a day I knew we would never forget.

For dinner, we decided to try Our Jungle House. The restaurant was nestled in the heart of the rainforest, and the atmosphere was magical. The staff were welcoming, and the menu offered a mix of Thai and Western dishes. Jean-Pierre opted for a classic Pad Thai, while I decided to try the Khao Soi, a delicious soup from northern Thailand. Sophie, of course, chose the pizza. The food was delicious, and the setting was enchanting, with the sounds of the jungle providing a soothing soundtrack to our meal. The reviews I had read about the place were spot on.

As we sat there, savoring our food and reflecting on the day's adventures, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. We had come to Khao Sok seeking adventure and tranquility, and we had found both in abundance. It was a reminder that sometimes the best experiences are the ones that take us off the beaten path, that challenge us to step outside our comfort zones and embrace the unknown.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Nam Ta Lu Cave and Mae Yai Waterfall. I've heard that the cave is an incredible sight, filled with stunning rock formations. And Sophie is already excited about the prospect of swimming in another waterfall. We'll start the day with breakfast at Scenic View Restaurant, followed by lunch at Jasmine Garden Thai Restaurant and Cooking School. In the late afternoon, we're thinking of trying some bamboo rafting on the Khao-Sok River. It sounds like the perfect way to end another day of adventure in this amazing corner of Thailand.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we took a moment to simply listen to the sounds of the jungle. The symphony of crickets, frogs, and other nocturnal creatures was mesmerizing. It was a reminder that we were just visitors here, guests in a world that had existed long before us and would continue long after we were gone. It was a humbling thought, one that filled me with a sense of respect and gratitude for the natural world.

As we drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but smile. Today had been a perfect blend of adventure, discovery, and family bonding. It was a day that reminded me why I love to travel, why I love to explore, and why I love to share these experiences with the people I love most. And as I closed my eyes, I couldn't wait to see what tomorrow would bring.

It’s days like these that make me realize how lucky I am to be sharing this adventure with Jean-Pierre and Sophie. Living in Lyon, France, has given us a wonderful base for exploring Europe, but there’s something truly special about venturing further afield and immersing ourselves in cultures so different from our own. I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to combine my love for travel with my work as a freelance translator, allowing me the flexibility to explore the world while still pursuing my career. And, of course, sharing these experiences on my blog allows me to connect with fellow travel enthusiasts and hopefully inspire others to embark on their own adventures.

I am looking forward to the next day of adventures!