Thailand Island Tour Guide: Travel Hop with Camp Thailand

With beautiful beaches, delectable food, and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder that Thailand is a common bucket list stop for travellers and tourists. But with over 1400 islands, the most difficult challenge of a Thailand island tour is knowing which islands to visit and how to schedule a seamless and fulfilling trip. 

The good news? We’ve solved that problem for you. At Further Travel’s Camp Thailand, we organise group trips so you can explore the best of this Southeast Asian gem and make life-long connections in the process. Our programs like Camp Thailand Island Explorer and 

Camp Thailand 12 Day Adventure let you explore Thailand’s islands while having unforgettable cultural experiences. 

In this article, we’ll be covering: 

• The benefits of traveling 
• How to travel safely 
• An introduction to Thailand 
• Island hopping in Thailand 
• The Camp Thailand experience!

If you’re ready to join our Thailand island tour, you can apply now! You can also contact us, look through our common apply questions, or see FAQs for more info. 

Why Should I Travel? Reasons to Start Your Thailand Island Tour 

Travelling can feel intimidating and overwhelming; after all, you’re leaving home and exploring the unknown. So why do people want to travel and spend their summers across the globe? 

There’s actually a scientific reason for traveling and spending your summer abroad. Whether it is simply going on a field trip to a museum or going abroad, learning outside of the traditional classroom is known to have clear benefits in academic success and growth. 

A 2014 study by Behrendt & Franklin found that field trips have the ability to increase a student’s interest in specific subjects, increasing literacy and learning efficiency. 

More extensive trips, such as study abroad and global summer programs have also proven their academic benefits. In Hubner’s study on predictors and effects of studying abroad, their research concluded that students who study abroad experience improvements in standardised achievement, grades, and language learning. 

Furthermore, research has shown that even the most basic aspects of travel encourage learning, from gaining information on different cultures to interacting with new communities (Roberson 2018).  

In the long run, students who study abroad have greater incentive to support these communities, as data shows that 64% of the study abroad group participating in civic engagement versus the 48% of students who weren’t involved in study abroad programs. 

From developing your academic skills to growing your civic engagement, Camp Thailand is an experience that can offer you both lots of benefits and a boatload of fun.

How to Travel Safely During Your Thailand Island Tour 

You know the benefits of traveling, but are still wondering “Is Camp Thailand safe?” That's a great instinct. While traveling can feel serendipitous and spontaneous, it requires a substantial amount of planning, organisation, and awareness of how to be safe in a foreign country, especially if you don’t are unfamiliar with their language, social norms, and cultural practices. 

Camp Thailand has teamed up with World Nomads Insurance, where you can get additional protections such as: 

• 24/7 multilingual emergency assistance, customer service and claims support
• Ability to easily extend your policy to keep you on the road
• Travel coverage for 200+ adventure activities
• Up-to-date insurance information & safety advice to help you plan for your trip

Alongside insurance, taking part in well-established tours can ensure that your travels will be protected and enjoyable. At Camp Thailand, participants are given on-the-ground support throughout their trip and can seek further support with a dedicated in-house team available at our Manchester-based HQ. 

Our decades of experience in coordinating and managing camps has led us to becoming a leading and respected program, so that you can travel without additional worries. 

Thailand Island Tour: An Intro to the Southeastern Paradise 

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With insurance and programs all set, you’re ready to fly to your paradise destination. Though you may want to visit every beautiful nook and cranny of the island, we’ve listed some of the key places you should see before you go: 

1. Bangkok
2. Koh Tao
3. Phuket
4. Phi Phi Islands
5. Krabi

Bangkok 

Welcome to Bangkok, also known as Krung Thep–The City of Angels. Bangkok is a city that never ceases to captivate with its bustling metropolitan charm, rich cultural landmarks, and culinary expertise. As the capital of Thailand, the city offers countless things to do. Here are a few that should definitely be the top of your list: 

• Khao San Road: A hotspot for travellers, Khao San Road is a maze of intertwining streets bursting with street markets, food stalls, bars, and clubs. This is the go-to place for street food enthusiasts, souvenir hunters, and those in search of the infamous 'Khao San Road Cocktail Bucket.' By sundown, Khao San Road transforms into a lively party hub where you and your friends can dance the night away. 
• Eat Your Way Through the City: No visit to Bangkok is complete without savoring its delectable street food. Dive into culinary exploration at Chinatown, the birthplace of Thai street food, offering everything from skewered meats to fresh fruit stalls at budget-friendly prices. 
• Tuk-Tuk Time: Hop on a Tuk-Tuk for a classic experience, or board local buses to feel like a local. If you're traveling to or from the airport, don't miss the SkyTrain, providing incredible views of Bangkok's skyline at an affordable price.
• Visit Stunning Temples: Immerse yourself in abundant cultural history by paying a visit to The Grand Palace, the official residence of Thailand's former kings, showcasing intricate architecture and royal history. You can also spend time at Wat Pho, with its awe-inspiring 'Gold reclining Buddha,' and Wat Arun. 

At Camp Thailand, you’ll have time to explore Bangkok on most of our group trips, including our 12 Day Adventure or North Discovery tours. 

Koh Tao 

Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Tao beckons travellers seeking an island paradise just a short distance from the bustling city of Bangkok. Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life, Koh Tao offers a diverse array of experiences for visitors to enjoy.

• Beach Retreats: Koh Tao boasts pristine beaches that cater to all preferences. While Sairee Beach is the main hub with its bustling atmosphere and array of bars and restaurants, travellers can escape to serene spots like Sai Nuan Beach or Freedom Beach. Tanote Bay is also a popular destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, offering crystal-clear waters teeming with marine biodiversity.
• Water Adventures: With its aquamarine waters and thriving coral reefs, Koh Tao is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. From snorkeling and scuba diving to kayaking and paddleboarding, there's no shortage of aquatic activities to enjoy. Dive sites such as Shark Island and Chumphon Pinnacle are some ideal places to snorkel and explore stunning coral reefs and marine life. 
• Outdoor Pursuits: Beyond its aquatic allure, Koh Tao offers plenty of opportunities for adventure on land. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the island's lush interior, trekking to viewpoints like John-Suwan Viewpoint for breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding islands. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, activities like rock climbing, zip-lining, and cliff jumping are readily available.

Phuket

Welcome to Phuket, Thailand's largest and most sought-after tourist island, spanning an expansive 576 square kilometers–equivalent to the size of Singapore. Camp Thailand invites you to delve into this tropical paradise, offering a diverse array of experiences, from serene beach retreats to historical towns and lush jungles. Here’s what to do in Phuket:

• Elephant Encounter: At the Elephant Wildlife Sanctuary, you can intimately connect with these magnificent creatures by feeding, bathing, and gaining insights into their lives as you contribute to local conservation efforts. 
• Beach Bliss: No visit to a Thai island is complete without a day at the beach. Phuket boasts some of the most beautiful ones. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, the local beaches cater to your preferences. Take a surfing lesson, relax with a book, or experience the thrill of parasailing above the ocean.
• Explore Old Phuket Town: Stroll through Phuket's Old Town, adorned with Sino-Portuguese architecture. Thalang Road offers a vibrant atmosphere with shops selling fabrics, clothes, and gifts.

Phi Phi Islands

Just a few hours away from Phuket, the Phi Phi Islands beckon with their breathtaking beauty, featuring pristine white sand beaches and turquoise waters that make it hard to resist their allure. 

Renowned for their natural splendor, these islands gained fame when Maya Bay, one of their most stunning beaches, took center stage in the movie "The Beach," starring Leonardo DiCaprio. Since then, the Phi Phi Islands have become a must-visit destination for tourists seeking paradise in Thailand. Here are some things you can do during your island hopping visit: 

• Island Exploration and Snorkeling: You can join a long boat adventure to explore the Phi Phi Islands and their surrounding lagoon. During your trip, you’ll have access to secret beaches and extraordinary swimming spots with crystal-clear blue water. Don a snorkel to explore the vibrant underwater world, where you might even catch a glimpse of a reef shark if luck is on your side.
• Beach Party Vibes: Phi Phi Island is renowned for its lively nightlife. With numerous bars and clubs scattered around the island and along the beachfront, you can always find an exciting spot complete with fire dancers, thrilling challenges, and upbeat music. 
• Phi Phi View Point: While the ascent may be a bit challenging, the Phi Phi View Point rewards you with a panoramic view of the entire island. This spot is ideal for watching the sunset, providing the perfect backdrop for capturing memorable Phi Phi pictures.

Krabi

Nestled in the heart of Thailand, Krabi boasts some of the world's finest beaches and stunning limestone cliffs, and is especially popular amongst rock climbing enthusiasts. 

• Ao Nang: The main hub, Ao Nang beach, is a bustling focal point with vibrant nightlife and a plethora of activities. Serving as the primary launchpad for exploring nearby beaches, Ao Nang offers a fantastic sunset experience, buzzing with life in the evening as adventurers return from their day tours.
• Railay Bay: Railay Bay, situated close to Ao Nang, is accessible only by boat. With four stunning beaches adorned with climbable rocks and water activities like kayaking, Railay Bay provides a serene escape. 
• Koh Hong Island Retreat: For a natural and untouched paradise, set sail to Koh Hong Island's Koh Hong beach, nestled within a national park. Also accessible only by boat, this small haven boasts a secret lagoon, tropical fish, and wild monkeys, offering a unique natural beauty. 

No matter which islands you end up visiting on your Thailand island hopping tour, you can be rest assured that it will be filled with boundless, clear waters and thousands of places to explore. 

Our Programs: How to Begin Your Thailand Island Tour 

Image Source: campthailand.com

At Camp Thailand, our goal is to organise group trips that align with how you want to spend your summer. Since island hopping in Thailand seems to be up your alley, here are some of our programs that exactly fit your needs. You can view dates or download a trip summary for more details, or apply now if you’re ready to start your adventure. 

1. 12 Day Adventure
2. Bangkok to Beaches 
3. Ultimate Adventure
4. Island Explorer

12 Day Adventure

In 12 days, you’ll be able to have a little bit of everything, from exploring Bangkok to island hopping and making an impact with elephant conservation. From the get-go, our 12 Day Adventure program takes you to visit the reclining Buddah in Wat Pho, spend a beach day in Phuket, visit an elephant sanctuary, have a boat trip in Phi Phi Islands, and more. 

Great for individual and group travellers alike, this trip is ideal if you want a shorter trip but don’t want to miss out on the fun. 

Bangkok to Beaches

Our Bangkok to Beaches program is another one of our shorter, 12-day trips that is action packed and adventure driven. You’ll be able to explore Thailand’s capital in depth, going to dazzling temples and having fun with buzzing nightlife. 

You’ll also be able to do some island hopping, going to Koh Tao and Koh Phanan and discovering vibrant coral reefs, getting a nice tan on sandy beaches, and taking Muay Thai masterclasses when you want a pep in your step. We even scheduled a free day so that you have time to let your adventure side shine. 

Ultimate Adventure

Have more time to explore Thailand? Our Ultimate Adventure is a 21-day group trip that lets you dive deep into Thailand’s culture, explore tourist attractions, and spend days experiencing gorgeous nature. 

You’ll be able to visit an elephant sanctuary, have a city tour of Bangkok, join a Phi Phi boat tour, and explore Khao Sok and Erawan National Park (just to name a few!). You’ll have time to get well acquainted with the island, get rid of the jetlag, and develop closer friendships with your tripmates. 

Island Explorer

For those of you who purely want a Thailand island tour–this one’s for you! Our Island Explorer trip is the ultimate island experience, where you will be able to spend 20 days island hopping while having impactful cultural experiences. 

From school trips to elephant conservation, you’ll be making a real difference to local communities, all the while diving into the crystal clear seas of Krabi and seeing the fire shows on the Phi Phi Islands. It’s the perfect balance of work and fun.

Want to go to Thailand but don’t think these programs are up your alley? You can explore our other programs such as: 

• Rescue Paws
• Summer Teach
• Teaching Placement

From Our Campers: Camp Thailand Experiences

Hannah is an elephant-loving, teaching enthusiast who’s a part of the Camp Thailand fam. During her trip, she was able to teach English, explore street food markets, and see lots of elephants: 

“I’ve just had the summer of a lifetime and I’m so grateful that I’ve been blessed enough to have so many wonderful experiences and meet so many new people. My summer brought joys, challenges, laughter and sunburn and I wouldn’t change it for the world. It’s been a dream of mine for years to go to Thailand and experience a totally new culture (and see the beautiful elephants).” 

Darragh is another camper whose highlight were the guides and counselors who helped them feel a sense of community and friendship:

“I really don’t know where to start with Noi. She was the Mammy of the group, always looking out for our well-being. You could talk to every one of the 21 people on the intake and not one person would say anything less than amazing things about Noi. She made each and every one of us feel like family, always up for a laugh and yet if she felt that anything was off with you on any particular day, she would be the first person to put her arm around you and ask if you were alright.”

Darragh and Hannah are just two of thousands of campers who have experienced Thailand through our group trips, making unforgettable memories and taking part in unique adventures. You can find more reviews on our blog to hear more about how Camp Thailand has impacted our campers’ lives. 

Apply Now and Start Your Camp Thailand Island Tour! 

With all the reasons to do Camp Thailand, what’s stopping you? If you're eager to travel with purpose and volunteer through Further Travel’s Camp Thailand programs, follow these steps to get started:

1. Choose Your Program: If you know you want to go to Thailand, the next step is to choose which program you want to be in. Do you want to focus more on traveling or volunteering? Do you want to teach? How long do you want your trip to be? 
2. Check the Requirements: Make sure that you meet the requirements. You need to be at least 18 years old for all programs, and some may require you to have a degree for teaching. 
3. Understand What’s Included: Camp Thailand offers pre-departure support, accommodations, meals, transport within Thailand, tours, and more, but may not include visa fees or personal expenses. 
4. Start Your Application: Once you've selected your ideal Camp Thailand experience, checked requirements, and understood inclusions, start your application!

To apply, you can start here and provide the necessary information for next steps. You can always contact us for more information–we love hearing from you. 

Well, what are you waiting for? Camp Thailand awaits! 

Want to explore other parts of the world? You can find other programs here: 

• Camp Bali 
• Camp Maldives
• Camp South Africa
• Camp Bali Island Hopper 
• Americamp