Village Experiences

Meet the People, Know the Place

Accessible from any hotel in the region, including Phuket, Khao Lak, Khao Sok, and Ranong

Fast Facts:

  • Trip length: 1,2,3 and 5 day tours are available, tours can also be customized on request
  • Accommodation: Comfortable homestay in village or bungalows nearby (on request)
  • Getting there: The tour starts at the village, any additional transport can be arranged on request
  • In-country support: International Thai-speaking support staff, local guide, bilingual translator, Visitor's Handbook
  • Meals: All meals and refreshments during your time in the village are included
  • Activities: Cultural and sightseeing activities are included
  • Language requirements: No Thai language is required. We will provide you with an English/Thai phrasebook to assist you with communication
  • Availability: All year round

Andaman Discoveries is based in Kuraburi, a relatively undeveloped area just north of the resorts of Phuket and Khao Lak. The cultural and natural diversity of this North Andaman region make it a fascinating place to explore.

Come and see the pristine jungle, untouched beaches and coral reefs that provide habitat for rare wildlife. Here you will find Muslim, Buddhist and Moken villages living side by side in harmony. These warm-hearted people welcome you to create life-long memories and friends by joining them to explore the area, from reef to rainforest.

Trips can be from one to five days. Depending on what excites you, focus on cultural or outdoor activities, or indulge in the best of both.

  • Join your host family for a delicious home-cooked meal and learn how to make an authentic Thai dessert.
  • Get creative with the women's craft groups — learn how to weave palm fronds, and make natural soap or your very own tie-dye sarong.
  • Eco-enthusiasts and adventure seekers can hike, go kayaking, explore deserted tropical islands, wild orchid conservation and more.

Many activities just happen naturally as you immerse yourself into village life. You may find yourself roasting cashew nuts, helping your homestay family make fishing nets, or even playing football on the beach with the locals after a busy day.

The variety of experiences can be enjoyed by all ages, abilities, and tastes. Our translator will accompany you throughout your time in the village, to make sure you fully interact with the people you meet. Andaman Discoveries also provides extensive pre-trip information to help you understand the local customs and culture.

The homestay experience is highly recommended to fully appreciate the hospitality of the villagers. Alternately, you can stay in a nearby bungalow.

Bespoke tours are available on request, and can be tailored to specific interests such as families, volunteering, crafts, wildlife, island excursions, bicycling, kayaking, and conservation.

  • 1-Day Tour - A great way to experience the area for guests passing through with limited time. Help your host family cook lunch, then join a local guide for village tour and cultural activity.
  • 2-Day Tour - By staying overnight, you can revel in a sensational sunset on a deserted beach and join your host family for dinner and a wonderful cultural exchange. Enjoy a boat tour through winding mangrove canals, and see gentle monkeys and brightly colored birds.
  • 3-Day Tour - A real opportunity to be immersed in traditional Thai culture by seeing, feeling and tasting it! Experience the local lifestyle first-hand by fishing with your village guide. Understand the tsunami's legacy by visiting an area destroyed by the wave.
  • 5-Day Tour - Take part in a cornucopia of cultural and natural delights. Gain deeper insight into Buddhist and Muslim villages. See why the North Andaman is Thailand's best kept secret.

How you make a difference

You can be confident that your visit will genuinely benefit the villagers. Not only by providing income and employment for community members, but also by helping to protect the heritage of the region.

Andaman Discoveries has been working with our partner communities since 2005 to directly support village-led education, conservation and cultural empowerment. Your presence contributes to the local community fund and to Andaman Discoveries' ongoing social and environmental projects.

Customize Your Trip!

Why not combine your Cultural Tour with a snorkeling trip to Koh Surin National Park, one of the finest snorkeling sites in Southern Thailand; a stay at an island ecolodge; or a visit to the pristine rainforests of the Khao Sok National Park? Contact us today!

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Wild Asia's Responsible Tourism Award Winner 2010

Tourism Authority of Thailand 2009 Green Award Winner

Virgin Holidays Award Winner - Best for Conservation of Cultural Heritage

Winner of the 2008 SEED Initiative

Travel Leisure Global Vision Award 2008

BBC World Challenge Finalist 2009