Khao Sok Wonderland

Your first stop is a beautiful mangrove forest just north of the Ao Nang area — the ride out is one of the most scenic roads in the region. It is a national park, so budget around 100 baht entrance fee; the park is well worth it.

Look around in all directions — mangrove snakes, water monitor lizards and small deer live in the area. The mangrove mixes with a spring-fed freshwater river, so the water around the roots is relatively crystal clear — a tangled maze of roots, small fish and dense overhead foliage makes for spectacular photos.

A small resort just outside the main Khao Sok village area — one of many in the region, and you can choose another if you prefer. We recommend Khao Sok Riverside Cottages as a good-quality, inexpensive option we have personally stayed at.

Useful as a break on the long drive, an overnight if you are staying in the area, or simply a reference point as you approach the national park gateway.

A beautiful shallow river running through the area — ideal for wading up to your ankles in fresh water. Find rocks to sit on with cool water flowing over your feet.

A perfect mid-journey break. If you can pick up takeaway food, you can sit literally in the river while you eat — one of the simple pleasures of this part of Thailand.

A viewpoint over the Ratchaprapha Dam — the structure that keeps Cheow Lan Lake full and provides hydroelectric power to well over 100,000 people in the region.

Pull over, grab takeaway food, and enjoy the view. This is also very close to where you board boats for the famous floating bungalows on the lake — if that is your plan, factor in extra time for the pier and boat schedule.