
Discovery of Bangkok and its surroundings
From the red lotuses of Maha Sawat to the elephants of Kanchanaburi, secret Thailand reveals itself between canals and forests.
Duration
14 days
From
€1,490/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jan, Feb, Mar, Nov, Dec
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
Charm & Character
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends, senior
The spirit of travel
At daybreak, boats glide between the stilt houses of Amphawa while the red lotuses of Maha Sawat emerge from calm waters. This two-week journey reveals an authentic Thailand, far from the beaten path, where each stop offers an immersion into the Thai way of life.
The journey crosses the majestic ruins of Ayutthaya, former capital of the Siamese kings, before reaching the turquoise waterfalls of Erawan in the Kanchanaburi jungle. On the rails of the famous "Death Railway", history still resonates while the elephants of Elephant Haven sanctuary invite an moving encounter. Bangkok's canals reveal their secret mangroves, the floating markets of Amphawa come alive at sunset, and fireflies dance on dark waters as night falls.
This circuit draws from the heritage of the Kingdom of Siam, blending sculpted teak temples, the royal palaces of Bang Pa-in and thousand-year-old artisanal traditions. Between lotus pools and elephant forests, this discovery of central Thailand offers an authentic immersion into the soul of a people where spirituality and nature are one.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary

Arrival and free visit of Bangkok
Upon your arrival at Bangkok International Airport, you are welcomed by our local representative and transferred to your hotel located in the heart of the Thai capital. After settling in, the rest of the day is free so you can recover from your journey while enjoying a gentle first immersion in Bangkok's unique atmosphere.
Depending on your arrival time, you can explore your neighborhood, discover the first flavors of Thai cuisine, stroll through the lively streets or simply relax at the hotel. Between urban modernity, discreet temples and vibrant local life, this first day marks the beginning of your discovery of the Kingdom of Siam.
In the evening, Dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya.

Ayutthaya, former capital of the kingdom
We set off to discover the Bang Pa In Royal Palace, a former royal summer residence built in the 17th century. Abandoned after the fall of Ayutthaya, the site was entirely restored and enlarged in the mid-19th century by King Rama V, who made it a privileged retreat.
In the heart of elegantly landscaped gardens, you discover a harmonious ensemble of pavilions with Thai, European and Chinese influences, testifying to the kingdom's openness during this period. A peaceful visit offering a refined glimpse into the royal history of Siam.
After lunch, you set off to discover the historic center of Ayutthaya. You explore in particular the Wat Mahathat, a major temple dating from the late 14th century, famous for the Buddha head entwined in the roots of a tree, which has become one of the symbols of the site.
The visit continues to the Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, a former royal temple and the largest in the ancient capital, recognizable by its elegant aligned chedis that testify to the past grandeur of the kingdom.
Finally, you discover the Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, renowned for its impressive reclining Buddha and peaceful atmosphere, offering a beautiful conclusion to this immersion into the heart of Siam's history.

Maha Sawat and her lotus farm
This morning, we begin the day with a visit to the Baan Saladin agrotourism village, where you will discover the process of making the famous puffed rice cakes, before being able to enjoy a tasting.
We then continue our adventure with an exploration of the great Maha Sawat canal, once used to supply Bangkok's markets. Aboard a boat, we will enjoy a peaceful ride through its waters, while observing local wildlife and feeding the fish.
Back on dry land, we will visit a fruit garden, where you can admire gac fruit plantations and discover the making of various products made from this unique fruit.
We will end this morning with a visit to a lake where magnificent lotus flowers bloom, offering a peaceful landscape to contemplate.
We then head towards Nakhon Pathom, which is home to the Wat Phra Pathom Chedi, Thailand's tallest stupa.
Arrival in Kanchanaburi, where we will take time to visit the grand temple of Wat Tham Suea, accessible by climbing with a small cable-car (local standards!!).

Discovering Kanchanaburi and its Surroundings
Departure for the station and boarding at around 10:40 on the famous "Death Railway" made famous by the history of the film "The Bridge on the River Kwai", for approximately 1 hour by train heading West towards the SaiYok region, located 70 km to the west at the end of the railway line.
After lunch, we spend the afternoon at "Elephant Haven". On site, we buy baskets of fruit (not included – approximately 3 euros per basket), treats for the pachyderms.
Early in the afternoon, we enjoy an exceptional moment: bathing with the Elephants! Return late afternoon to Kanchanaburi.
🌞 Get ready for the afternoon with the elephants.
Plan your swimwear and change of clothes in the morning if you plan to bathe with the elephants in the afternoon.
👕 Easy-to-wear clothing.
Choose easy-to-wear clothing, as there will likely not be a convenient changing room on site.

Erawan National Park
Morning departure for the national park and the Erawan waterfalls (63 km drive). This national park is home to a superb waterfall stretching over 7 levels, forming natural pools with stunning emerald blue waters inhabited by Mahseer barbels. If you prefer, you can stay around the 3 first levels, the easiest to access, and swim there, but a climb to the 7th level, although not difficult, is rewarding: La Phu Pha Erawan, the final waterfall being the most majestic spot in the area.
Free afternoon. Possibility to go kayaking (optional). Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide.
Parc National D'Erawan → Kanchanaburi

Cultural Day in Amphawa
Kanchanaburi → Province De Ratchaburi
Morning departure for Ratchaburi and visit to the shadow puppet theatre museum of the Wat Kanon Nang Yai Museum
Province De Ratchaburi → Amphawa
After lunch, stop at a Thai family home to learn how to make small objects from palm leaves and in particular the small fish ''pla tapian'' of which the mobiles are one of the specialties of the Ayutthaya and Amphawa region.
Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide
In the evening, let yourself be tempted by a Thai massage. (Optional activity to discuss with your guide on site).

Sur les marchés flottants d'Amphawa
This morning, we leave for the small floating market of Tah kah, rich in colors and smells. A real immersion in local Thai life.
Then, excursion to a local palm sugar industry.
Local curiosity, Mae Klong Railway Market, where 4 times a day, fruit and vegetable stalls quickly fold up when the train passes through the market.
Next, we discover life in the mangroves. By boat, we set out to explore this fragile ecosystem. During our excursion, we discover the lifestyle of fishermen (here cockle fishing is done from a surfboard) and visit a shellfish farm.
Lunch with local specialties.
As night falls, a boat trip on the canal. Our boatman picks us up on the quays, and we set off on a mini-excursion to hunt for fireflies that light up the waters.
This evening, we head to the docks to taste the local flavors of the Floating Market, which operates on weekend evenings. Along the canals, many locals have come to dine. Like them, we order our small dishes directly from each boat: stir-fried noodle dishes, a few shrimp or squid skewers, or why not pre-cut mangoes.
Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide

In the Mangroves
We start with a quick stop at the Mae Klong Railway Market, where 4 times a day, the fruit and vegetable stalls are quickly folded away as the train passes through the market.
Next, we head off to discover life in the mangroves. By boat, we venture into this fragile ecosystem. During our excursion, we discover the way of life of fishermen (here, cockle fishing is done from a surfboard) and visit a shellfish farm.
Lunch of local specialties.

Kui Buri National Park
We take advantage of this morning to relax and enjoy the beach.
Hua Hin → Kui Buri National Park
Departure at 1:00 PM towards the Kui Buri National Park. Accompanied by a ranger (and aboard his pickup truck), we set out to see wildlife (elephants and gaurs among the largest) (but please note this remains completely random).
Kui Buri National Park → Hua Hin
Return in late afternoon.
Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide.

The "300 Peaks" National Park
In the morning, visit to Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park (=300 peaks) and Tham Phraya Nakhon cave. To access it, we travel by small boat to Laem Sala beach, then climb approximately 500 meters to the cave.
Return to the hotel, and the rest of the day is free to enjoy some relaxation on the beach. Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide.

Return to the capital
Return to the capital via the coastal road, which crosses the large salt marshes of Ban Laem. Stop at Tham Khao Luang cave. Continue to Bangkok, where we arrive in mid-afternoon.
In the morning, detour to Jim Thompson's House, to discover Thai interior architecture. Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide.

A Dive into the Heart of Bangkok
Accompanied by your guide, you head to the docks and board a public river bus. As you travel along the water, you make your way toward the historic center on the right bank, up to the flower market at Pak Khlong Talat. Stroll through the fragrant aisles and immerse yourself in authentic, traditional Asia.
We set out to discover the architectural gems of Bangkok. Let us marvel at the splendor of the Grand Palace of Bangkok, built in 1782: a sumptuous ensemble of buildings and inner courtyards, including the Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). We discover there the famous Emerald Buddha, a precious statue dating from the 14th century, at the heart of one of the most revered sanctuaries in the country.
Then, on foot, we reach Wat Pho, one of Bangkok's oldest temples, renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and elegant pavilions. We discover the impressive Reclining Buddha, an iconic figure of the place, as well as the inner courtyards dotted with stupas and refined decorative details.
We then cross the river by small boat to reach Wat Arun, the famous "Temple of Dawn", standing on the right bank. Upon arrival, we can admire its spectacular central prang, finely decorated with porcelain mosaics and floral patterns that shimmer in the light.
Ride aboard a private traditional "long-tail" boat-taxi on the Chao Praya river, one of the country's most important waterways and a vital artery of Bangkok. As we drift along the water, we discover the "Venice of the Orient," with its peaceful canals, stilt houses and small temples hidden along the riverbanks.

The "Green Lung" of Bangkok
Set off on a bike tour in the capital's lung in the extraordinary Bang Kachao neighborhood - a veritable jungle in the heart of the city. At the entrance, you can rent bikes to explore the park.
You can also visit an incense stick manufacturing workshop and several small temples and see old houses in the neighborhood.
Possibility to reach the "modern" city center and the Siam Square shopping district.

See you soon in Thailand!
Depending on your flight time, depart for Bangkok airport.
Goodbye and see you soon in the Land of Smiles!
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International flights
- Customs fees, baggage supplement
- Meals and beverages (except meals explicitly mentioned)
- Supplements not explicitly mentioned, "early check-in", "day-use" or "late check-out"
- Tips and personal expenses
- International Insurance
- Services not explicitly mentioned or mentioned "as optional"
Included
- Airport / hotel transfers
- Accommodation: depending on the cities, nights will be in 3 or 4-star hotels
- Breakfasts
- The services of the private English-speaking Thai guide from Day 1 to Day 12
- Thai private driver services from Day 1 to Day 11, and Day 13
- The visits and activities mentioned in the itinerary
- Local insurance and local taxes
Your accommodations
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 40% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
More than 60 days before departure: 40% of total price (deposit retained)
Between 60 and 30 days before departure: 50% of total price
Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of total price
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travellers intending to visit Thailand for a tourist stay. Entry requirements may change, so we recommend verifying information with the official authorities of Thailand and your country of residence before departure.
Passport
To enter Thailand, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months beyond the date of entry and must contain at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Tourist stay visa requirements
Entry requirements and visa exemptions for tourist stays depend on your nationality.
You must verify your specific entry conditions with the Thai embassy or consulate in your country of residence before travelling.
The authorities may request:
an outbound travel document (return flight or onward journey),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay.
Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
Before your arrival, you must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), a digital arrival form implemented by the Thai authorities.
This document allows you to transmit to immigration services certain information required for entry into the country:
passport information
flight details
address of your first accommodation in Thailand
The form should generally be completed online in the days prior to your arrival. A digital confirmation or QR code may be requested when passing through immigration.
Travelling with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
Depending on your country of residence, an authorisation for the child to leave the country may be required when a minor travels without one of their parents.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travellers should contact the Thai embassy or consulate in their country of residence for specific requirements.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to be insured for repatriation assistance and medical expenses abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to familiarize yourself with the specific contract developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about the coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The comprehensive insurance solution designed for you to enjoy your trip peacefully!
Choose the plan that best suits you:
Explorer'Multirisk
Explorer'Cancellation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer'Banking Card Complement
Specific to our trips, we strongly suggest subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and the procedures for claiming are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the procedures for reporting any claim. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
Thailand can be visited year-round, but the best time is between November and February (dry and cool season). The north is cooler from November to January, while the southern beaches are ideal from December to April. The rainy season (June-October) offers lush landscapes and fewer tourists, with short and intense showers.
Entry conditions depend on your nationality and change regularly. Many passports benefit from visa exemption for short tourist stays; beyond that, a tourist visa can be obtained from the Thai consular representation before departure. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your entry date. Check the rules applicable to your nationality with the Thai consular authorities before booking — our local team will assist you in preparing your documents.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between €150 and €250 per day per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transport and activities. International flights (€500-900 return) are additional. Our detailed quote lets you see each expense line for full budget transparency.
Absolutely! We tailor each itinerary to our travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations (villas, suites), fun activities (elephant encounters, snorkeling, cooking classes), and comfortable private transfers. Children love Thailand!
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
It's simple: 1) Chat with Nanthida to define your wishes, budget and dates. 2) Receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. 3) Fine-tune every detail together. 4) Confirm and travel with peace of mind! Your local agency is available 7 days a week during your trip.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Voyage Thaïlande is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) coverage which protects 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground.

Let's talk about your adventure — Central Bangkok
Thai escape accomplice, based in Chiang Mai
For me, Thailand reveals itself as much in its landscapes as in its everyday rituals: a smile, a shared meal, a mountain road, a simple moment that stays with you.
— Dylan













