Our Phuket wildlife adventure begins with a visit to Sirinat National Park, the island's true natural treasure. Located in the northwestern part of Phuket, this park offers a unique combination of mangrove ecosystems, beaches and coral reefs. Note the impressive trees growing along the beach, which form a natural canopy, providing shelter for numerous species of birds. At low tide, one can observe fascinating formations created from the remains of coral reefs, which form peculiar islands. Sirinat Park is also a great place to watch planes landing, which is an added attraction, especially for the little ones. Be warned, however, that the noise associated with the proximity of the airport can be a nuisance to some visitors.

Our next destination is Khao Sok National Park, which, although located on the Thai mainland, is easily accessible from Phuket and is a must-see for wildlife enthusiasts. Considered one of the oldest rainforests in the world, this park impresses with its biodiversity and spectacular landscapes. Limestone cliffs rising from the turquoise waters of Cheow Lan Lake create scenery as if from another world. The park offers many opportunities for active recreation, such as trekking through the jungle, kayaking or staying overnight in floating bungalows on the lake. It is here that we have the chance to meet wild elephants, gibbons, or exotic bird species.

We can't miss Ao Phang Nga National Park, which, although not located directly on Phuket, is easily accessible and is one of Thailand's most distinctive landscapes. The famous limestone rock formations rising straight out of the sea, including the famous James Bond Island (Ko Tapu), attract tourists from all over the world. The park offers unforgettable boat tours through a maze of rocks and caves, as well as the opportunity to explore unique mangrove ecosystems. Also worth a visit is the floating Muslim village of Ko Panyi, which is a fascinating example of human adaptation to live in harmony with the sea.

Comparing the three national parks, each offers a unique experience. Sirinat is the most accessible for tourists staying on Phuket, but can be crowded due to its proximity to the airport. Khao Sok requires a longer trip, but offers the most diverse ecosystems and the opportunity for a deeper dive into wildlife. Ao Phang Nga is famous for its incredible seascapes and is ideal for photography enthusiasts, although it can be very crowded in high season. Admission prices to the national parks vary, but usually range from 200 to 500 baht for adults, with lower rates for children. It's worth checking current prices before visiting, as they are subject to change.

One of the most moving and educational experiences on a safari in Phuket is a visit to animal sanctuaries, which offer ethical and responsible encounters with wild species. Phuket Elephant Sanctuary is a place that puts the welfare of elephants first, offering them a peaceful and dignified life after years of hard work in the tourism industry. This sanctuary, unlike many other elephant-related attractions on Phuket, does not offer elephant rides or swimming with elephants, which is in line with the best conservation practices for these majestic animals.

When visiting the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary, we have the opportunity to observe elephants in their natural habitat, taking a guided walk through the grounds and listening to the fascinating stories of each of the rescued animals. The sanctuary offers the opportunity to feed the elephants from a safe distance, an unforgettable experience for both children and adults. It's worth noting that the elephants' space here is respected and contact with them is kept to a minimum, which is crucial for their well-being.

Ticket prices for the sanctuary are higher than traditional elephant attractions, starting at 1,900 baht for the basic tour option. However, it's important to note that these funds go toward the care of the elephants and the upkeep of the sanctuary, making this an ethically worthwhile investment.

For bird lovers, the Phuket Bird Park offers the opportunity to encounter a variety of exotic bird species. Although receiving mixed reviews, this park can be an interesting destination for families with children. It houses many species of birds, and also hosts daily shows that can be educational and entertaining for younger audiences.

However, it is worth noting that some visitors express concerns about the conditions in which the birds are kept. The cages can seem small and the variety of food limited. The price of admission is about 500 baht for adults and 300 baht for children, which some consider exorbitant in relation to the attractions offered. Before visiting, it's worth considering whether this type of attraction is compatible with your animal welfare beliefs.

An alternative to the Phuket Bird Park can be birdwatching in their natural habitat, such as at Sirinat National Park or on a trip to the mangrove forest, where many species of water and forest birds can be found.

Comparing the two places, Phuket Elephant Sanctuary definitely stands out in terms of its ethical approach to animal care and visitor education. Although more expensive, it offers an authentic and responsible experience. The Phuket Bird Park, while it may be attractive to families with children, has some controversy about the living conditions of the birds. When choosing between these attractions, you should be guided not only by price, but more importantly by how our choices affect animal welfare and what values we want to impart to the little ones on our trip.

Our safari adventure on Phuket would not be complete without discovering the island's lesser-known but equally fascinating natural attractions. One such place is Bang Pae Waterfall, hidden in the heart of the jungle in northeastern Phuket. This place offers not only a picturesque view of cascading water, but also the opportunity for a refreshing swim in the natural pools at the foot of the waterfall.

Bang Pae Waterfall is part of a larger forest complex and is a great place for a short trek through the jungle. The path leading to the waterfall is relatively easy, making it suitable for families with children. There is also a Gibbon Rehabilitation Center in the area, where you can learn more about these fascinating monkeys and efforts to protect them.

It is worth noting, however, that opinions on Bang Pae are divided. Some visitors feel that the entrance fee (about 200 baht for foreigners) is too high for the attractions offered, especially during the dry season when the waterfall may be less impressive. Others appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty of the place, especially compared to Phuket's more crowded attractions.

Another hidden treasure is the Ton Sai waterfall, located in the northern part of the island. This spot offers a more challenging trek through dense jungle, which may appeal to adventurers. The path leading to the waterfall is less traveled, offering a chance for a closer encounter with Phuket's wildlife.

Ton Sai is especially beautiful during the rainy season, when the waterfall is most abundant. It may be less impressive in the drier months, but the hike through the jungle itself remains a fascinating experience. It's worth remembering to have proper footwear and a supply of water, as the route can be challenging, especially for less experienced hikers.

Comparing the two waterfalls, Bang Pae is more accessible and suitable for families with children, offering an easier route and swimming opportunities. Ton Sai, on the other hand, provides a more authentic wilderness experience and is a better choice for those seeking more challenging treks. Admission prices are similar, but Ton Sai is often less crowded.

Regardless of your chosen destination, these lesser-known Phuket natural attractions offer a chance to escape the tourist crowds and immerse yourself more deeply in the island's natural beauty. They are the perfect complement to a visit to the larger national parks and animal sanctuaries, showcasing the diversity of Phuket's ecosystems.

To sum up our Phuket safari, it's worth noting that the island offers an incredibly diverse natural experience. From majestic national parks to ethical animal sanctuaries to hidden waterfalls, there is something for everyone. The key to a successful trip is to take a responsible approach to sightseeing, respect local wildlife and consciously choose attractions that prioritize animal welfare and environmental protection. Phuket isn't just about beaches and resorts - it's a true wildlife lover's paradise that will long be remembered by every visitor.