Thailand
January 18-27, 2027
Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi
Pack your bags and get ready to embark on a handcrafted adventure that showcases the best of Thailand! Guided through the eyes of local experts, you will be introduced to the classic highlights and hidden treasures, featuring a variety of exclusive experiences.
This 10-day journey begins with a discovery of pristine temples and colorful markets in the bustling capital city of Bangkok. Next, it's off to Chiang Mai, where rich cultural experiences, countryside explorations and elephant encounters await. A tropical escape to Krabi promises an irresistible end to your trip. Make the most of this palm fringed paradise, to truly unwind and bask in the beachfront luxuries surrounded by stunning blue water.
Thailand is known as the land of smiles and this incredible experience will leave you grinning from ear to ear!
ITINERARY
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Welcome to Thailand, the land of smiles! Your trip begins with your arrival at the Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) in Bangkok. Meet your fellow travelers and driver in the arrivals area. For a smooth and comfortable start to your adventure, you will be driven directly to the hotel, where a lovely evening in this urban wonderlands awaits. Two group transfers will be provided.
Check in to your hotel in the early afternoon. If you are arriving earlier and would like an early check in, let us know and we can arrange an extra night at our hotel in Bangkok for you to get some rest upon arrival. You’ll have the afternoon free to relax or explore Bangkok on your own.
Tonight we will meet as a group to enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel as we get to know our fellow travelers.
Meals included: Dinner
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Today is a special morning with an early wake up call. We’ll take breakfast to-go and make our way to a nearby temple to experience a timeless ritual of devotion know as tak bat.
Here we will expand our understanding of Buddhism as we dive deeper into the daily life of a monk, light candles, make offerings and burn incense. We’ll also observe the meticulous craft of monk bowl-making, a revered tradition with a glimpse into spiritual and cultural essence of Thailand.
In the afternoon, our tour takes us to Wat Pho, Bagkok’s oldest temple and also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. After we’ll visit the Grand Palace and finish with a stop at the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, locally known as Wat Phra Kaew and the most revered shrine of the Kingdom.
After the tour, enjoy the rest of the afternoon and evening to relax at the pool, explore Thailand’s markets and enjoy dinner at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
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Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel. Today we have another day of exploring Bangkok in store for you!
Our morning starts with a visit to one of Bangkok’s most captivating sights, the mystical Wat Sam Phran, famously known as the Dragon Temple. We’ll marvel at this incredibly unique structure and take in some breathtaking views at the top of the tower.
Today we have one final temple to visit, Wat Bang Kung Templer, a small, stunning temple embraced by the roots of an ancient banyan tree.
Our day concludes with a stop to explore the Amphawa Floating Market. Here we’ll experience a scenic boat ride through Thai markets with opportunities to sample local snacks, fresh produce and delicious street food.
Bangkok has a ton of incredible restaurants to choose from so grab a tuktuk and enjoy dinner at your leisure this evening.
Meals: Breakfast
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Today we pack up and check out. We’ll head to the airport to catch our morning domestic flight to Chiang Mai.
Once we arrive, we’ll be picked up and brought to our hotel to check in and freshen up.
For lunch we will be learning about and preparing Thai food in a hands-on cooking class. We begin at a vibrant local market to explore the produce, aromas and spices, and to learn about the region’s culinary traditions. After we head to a pavilion for our cooking session. We’ll enjoy the meals we made together.
After lunch we will take a hike. up to the iconic Doi Suthep temple where we will listen to the chanting of th monks and enjoy the view.
As dusk approaches, our day concludes with a traditional foot massage in one of Chiang Mai’s most elegant heritage spas.
Enjoy dinner at your leisure this evening.
Meals included: Breakfast
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Wake up and enjoy a delightful breakfast before we begin our morning tour.
Today we visit the Royal Park, Rajapruek, to enjoy stunning floral gardens, impressive architecture and tranquil walking paths. Here we will find the Ho Kham Royal Pavillion and gardens that represent different regions of Thailand.
The rest of the day is free to enjoy as you wish. Chiang Mai has tons to offer - check out cafes, explore markets, relax at the pool or spa, or opt in for a group visit to an elephant sanctuary.
If you choose our optional activity, you’ll embark on a heartwarming connecting with rescue elephants contributing to their care.
Meals included: Breakfast
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Today you have the options to wake up early for a hike to Little Adam’s peak to watch the sunrise.
The hike is rated as moderate. It is approximately one mile round trip with 232 feet of elevation gain. It takes approximately 1-2. hours to complete.
After return to the hotel for a leisurely morning to enjoy breakfast and relax.
Later that morning we will take a short walk to visit the iconic Nine Arch Bridge for photo opportunities and enjoy a cold drink. The reward is worth the short climb.
Take the afternoon to explore town, grab lunch, shop, or get a massage. There will be an option to visit to Ravana Pool Club to enjoy the afternoon with drinks, lunch, and a view.
Dinner tonight is at your leisure.
Meals included: Breakfast
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After breakfast it is time to pack up and check out. Today we make our way to Sri Lanka’s famous South coast known for spectacular beaches and surf.
Our drive today is the adventure with stops along the way to enjoy some short nature walks and stunning waterfalls.
Lunch will be along the way.
We’ll arrive to our hotel, check in and enjoy the rest of the day to relax. We will be staying in the Welligama / Mirissa Beach area for the next 3 nights.
Tonight join your trip host on an adventure to Coconut Beach to catch the sunset.
Dinner is at your leisure tonight.
Meals included: Breakfast
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Enjoy breakfast at your leisure today. There are so many cute cafes to choose from with amazing views!
Today is built as a choose your own adventure day. Our hotel is located between Welligama and Mirissa Beach so there’s plenty of options to keep busy or you can head to the beach and relax. Welligama is known for its sandy bay, gentle waves and chill vibes - it’s perfect for a day at the beach and the recommended place to learn how to surf on the South Coast!
Surf’s Up - For anyone looking to try out surfing, this is your chance. An optional surf lesson will be arranged today for those interested.
If you are up for a more relaxing day, check out Weligama Beach or Mirissa Beach, test your surf skills, enjoy a yoga class, or treat yourself with a massage.
Enjoy lunch at a place of your choice. There are so many cute cafes with views and a favorite is Petti Petti.
In the early afternoon, meet back up of a group adventure to Secret Beach. Your trip host will organize the visit. To reach the beach, we will take a tuktuk to the starting point. Then we will ascend up a short, somewhat steep hiking trail that leads through a forested path and to a lovely beach. The walk takes around 20-30 minutes prior to reaching the cove. The beach has a restaurant, deck chairs and umbrellas for rent, and an opportunity to snorkel (BYO or rent gear prior).
Enjoy dinner and sunset at your leisure tonight.
Meals included: Breakfast
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Today we have an early wake up call for a whale watching tour. We’ll head to the harbor, hop in a boat, and head out to sea in search of blue whales, sperm whales, and dolphins.
After our tour, we will return to the hotel for a late breakfast.
The rest of today is yours to enjoy as you wish. Your trip host will have ideas for things to do. A few things we recommend include: a hike to Parrot Rock for views of the South Coast, rent a surf or body board and hit the waves, visit a local snake farm, check out the local shops, practice yoga, get a tattoo, etc.
There will be an option to meet up with your trip host to enjoy sunset together.
Dinner is at your leisure this evening.
Meals included: Breakfast
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Wake up and enjoy breakfast today before packing up and checking out.
Today we make our drive back towards Negombo for one last night in paradise. The drive takes around 4-5 hours total and we will make a few stops along the way to enjoy lunch, the views and take a dip in the ocean.
After we arrive in Negombo, we will check in to our hotel for the evening and enjoy some time to relax by the pool or head to the beach.
Tonight we will enjoy a farewell sunset and dinner together to celebrate our incredible journey and all the memories we have made together!
Meals included: Breakfast and dinner
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Suba Gamnak - Safe Journey! Today is our final day and sadly, time to say goodbye. Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out of the hotel.
Airport transfers will be arranged back to Bandaranaike International Airport Colombo (CMB). Up to 3 transfers will be provided.
Meals included: Breakfast
Questions? Please reach out to us at info@womenwhoexplore.com
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$4,795 double occupancy.
$5,995 single occupancy.
If you are traveling solo, you will be assigned roommates upon request or you can request a single supplement upgrade (limited availability).
A deposit is due at booking to secure your spot and a payment plan is offered. Additional payments may be applied to the trip balance prior to payment dates.
Please note that once the trip is confirmed, the deposit is non-refundable for this trip as it is used to secure safari permits. The hot air balloon experience is also non-refundable.
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• 11 days / 10 nights accommodations in 4 star and 5 star hotels, boutique hotels and boutique homestay
• Private airport transfers to and from Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo (CMB)
• A local English speaking guide for tours in Dambulla, Sigiriya and Kandy.
• Habarana Jeep Safari where wild elephants roam
• Visit Dambulla Cave Temple, Sigiriya Lion Rock and Kandy Tooth Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Sites)
• Hands-on cooking class with local Sri Lankan and opportunity to enjoy tasty local dishes
• Visit a tea plantation and a tea tasting
• Scenic train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella
• Hike to Little Adam’s Peak for sunrise and visit Nine Arch Bridge in Ella
• Visit Diyaluma, Ravana, and Ellewalla waterfalls for short hikes and swims
• Whale Watching to spot blue and sperm whales
• Visit Coconut Hill, Secret Beach and other stunning spots along the South Coast
• Free time to explore Ella, Sigiriya, Welligama Bay and Mirissa Beach
• Tour escort / driver in private transportation in an A/C car between domestic destinations, to tours, etc.
• Meals - 10 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners
• All monument entrance fees and national park fees (Royal Grandeur fee not included)
• All government taxes, tolls, parking fees and interstate taxes
• Women Who Explore trip leader with you and available for support 24/7
• Trip checklists, detailed packing list and pre-travel support provided in a private WhatsApp group
• WWE Swag to take home with you
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• International flights to/from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB).
• Airport transfers if arriving outside of designated arrival and departure dates and locations as noted. This can be arranged at an additional cost through our local service provide.
• Alcohol, speciality beverages, snacks, and meals as noted above
• Tips and gratuity for local guides, tour escort and driver (at the discretion of the guest)
• Any additional excursions or optional activities not included in the above
• Visa if applicable U.S. citizens and Canadian citizens are required to apply for an E-Visa ahead of time. Cost varies depending on length of visa requested. E-visa is ~$60 USD. Learn more here.
• Any travel related medical expenses such as immunizations, vaccinations, or required Covid-19 testing (not required for India as of 2/2023)
• Travel insurance (required)
• Personal expenses not included in the itinerary such as additional accommodations, transportation, souvenirs, etc.
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All meals will be provided as noted in the itinerary. Please share any food allergies/sensitivities at the time of booking or reach out to share with the trip host. We always do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions but cannot make any guarantees.
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This trip requires a minimum number of ladies to register in order for it to be confirmed. Once the trip reaches the minimum participant number, you will receive a trip confirmation email and a link to be added a private WhatsApp group just for trip guests. In this group further trip details will be provided along with pre-travel support.
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Please see our Terms of Service.
All deposits are non-refundable at the time of booking, but may be transferable if done so within the timeframe outlined in the Terms of Service.
Once a trip has been confirmed (no matter the booking or trip timeline), the deposit is both non-refundable and non-transferable. Please make sure you are purchasing adequate travel insurance at the time of booking to ensure you are covered in case you need to cancel.Please note: some of our trips have a non-refundable fee that will be stated in the trip description. Please make sure to refer to the full Terms of Service to make sure you understand fully the Cancellation Policy of each trip.
For India once the trip is confirmed, the leopard safari permit and the hot air balloon are both non refundable and non transferable activities.
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Women Who Explore guests will be required to follow the local Covid-19 guidelines and requirements as set forth by the local governing body of the destination being visited.
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Travel (and medical) insurance is required for anyone traveling on a Women Who Explore adventure. Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. Your insurance policy should also include specific Covid-19 cover, including cancellation and curtailment cover if you or a close relative are diagnosed with Covid-19.
For recommended travel insurance providers click here.
If you purchase a Travel Select plan within 15 days of your initial trip deposit made (and insure your full trip cost), you would have two added eligible benefits for no additional premium: financial default and the pre-existing conditions waiver.
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Please note that the itinerary provided for your adventure is subject to change. While we strive to adhere to the proposed plan, unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions, safety concerns, or other factors beyond our control may necessitate adjustments to the itinerary. We prioritize your safety and enjoyment throughout the adventure, and any modifications made will be done with careful consideration. We will make every effort to inform you in advance of any changes and provide suitable alternatives to ensure a fulfilling experience.
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Please note that at the time this trip is confirmed, the trip deposit is non-refundable and non-transferrable to another trip as it is used to secure safari permits from the government of India.
Permits are assigned at the time of purchase. Permits will be acquired on a first come basis as specific zones are assigned at the time of purchase. Guests will be on safari with 2-6+ other guests in a shared open air vehicle.
Please note that while we strive to provide an incredible wildlife experience, sightings of elephants, leopards, or any specific animal are not guaranteed. Wildlife is unpredictable, and animals may not be visible during your safari due to their natural behavior and habitat. The success of sightings depends on a variety of factors, including weather, time of day, and animal movements. We encourage you to enjoy the beauty of nature, the variety of wildlife, and the adventure of the journey, regardless of specific animal sightings.
