THAILAND - Destinations & Hotels

Khao Sok National Park

Elephant Hills Jungle Camp | $$
Eco-friendly, Remote location

Elephant Hills is Thailand’s first luxury jungle camp combining the luxury camp idea of African national parks with Thai tropical forest environment. The 20 tailor-made luxurious tents are set in the largest area of rainforest in Southern Thailand. A night at Elephant Hills is a unique experience; the temperatures drop, campfires create a romantic and warm atmosphere in which to share travel tales and the rainforest and its inhabitants form an exciting concert that accompanies visitors through the night. There are 1, 2 and 3 night packages available that include jungle treks on foot and canoe safaris along the Sok River to name but a few.

Each tent features twin beds, fan, kettle and a luxurious bathroom with toilet and hot and cold shower. The tents provide ample space and are well protected against mosquitoes and other possible intruders. The furniture is handmade by skilled craftsmen using natural materials and provides all the comfort a guest would normally find in a hotel room. There are enough lights to read by and fill your diaries with the day’s observations.

At the centre of the site is the semi-open air main camp that houses the restaurant. The “captains table” style dining area serves as the place to meet other guests as well as dining venue. They serve locally sourced Thai style food.

From a scenic canoe trip on the Sok River and a ride on elephant back through the forest, to various trekking routes that can match all skill levels the camp is the perfect base to explore the unique and natural treasures Southern Thailand has to offer. Guests are able to learn about the tropical environment and its inhabitants, elephants and their conservation as well as learning some of the secrets of Thai cooking.

Being one of the largest employers in the Khao Sok National Park area the camp does have a direct impact on the surrounding community. The conditions for most locals working in the Khao Sok National park are often pretty poor. With rubber plantations and tapping an ever increasing and destructive industry, tourism offers an alternative to those who wish to carve a new direction in their lives. Every position from cooks, bar staff, cleaners to trained tour guides, carpenters and canoe paddle guides are filled by people from the Khao Sok area.

There are a few other operators in the Khao Sok area but the Elephant Hills, is in our opinion, the best and most socially aware. The tents are unique in Asia and have made travelling to this area of ancient pristine forest an absolute joy. Unfortunately due to the nature of the location it cannot accommodate under 7’s, but for older kids, including the grown up kids, it is a perfect combination of exploration, adventure and learning. The pace of the excursions is moderated to the group, so no need to be super fit. Walking shoes are not required just comfortable sports shoes will suffice, but do take a spare pair as they my well get wet in the jungle.

Please note that the excursions are NOT on a private basis, depending on numbers you will most likely join a small group of between 4 to 12 of all nationalities, age and fitness levels.

Please note that you are no longer allowed to ride the elephants

This is just one of the hotels that we recommend in this area. If your favourite is not featured just let your consultant know - we will be happy to book it for you!

Other Khao Sok National Park Hotels