Good driver recommendation. Phuket to Khao Sok National Park

[Kath]

Am tossing up whether to take a public bus or hire a private driver to take two of us to Khao Sok National Park.

Safety, comfort, $$$'s as well as saving precious holiday time all reckons into the equation.

Departing, end of April, Kamala to Khao Sok (one-way).

Originally planning bus travel but now considering (with a good recommendation) an air-conditioned private car, preferably something solid eg. perhaps a 4 wheel drive, or at least something with decent tyres and a cautious driver. (i know 'when your numbers up, your numbers up', but can't help being a bit paranoid after being in a near fatal accident last time in Phuket).

Not a good 'general' question to post as my first ... i know, but if anyone has a good contact, please let me know.

[doctorglowstalk]

Can't remember the drivers name or tour title ... but - last year I purchased a ticket at a travel/tour agent in main street Kata for mini bus passage to Khao Sok Nat Park. The driver arrived late at my hotel in a newish Mitsubishi sedan - we picked up another couple on our way. It was an 'adventure / off the beaten track' day tour for them. Roads were in good condition so a 4wd isn't really necessary. After waiting by a river for an hour whilst the couple completed their elephant trek I was promptly dropped of at my chosen accom (where the other couple had lunch) right next to the entrance to the Park. It was quick, safe & not to expensive that way. It's really good at Khao Sok ... if you like jungle!

My driver never turned up for the return trip.... so ended up being ridiculously cheap by local bus ... slow but interesting. ('bout 6/7 hrs) I think the local buses only pick-up & drop off at Phuket Town.

[oneday]

Try arranging it through your hotel. If you have a good hotel they will help arrange just about anything for you.

Or use this person recomended on this board which I just used on April 3. All day anywhere you want to go or just give him a general idea and he will conduct the tour.

Mr. Mor
pongkands@gmail.com

He took us (my girl for the day and me) up northwest side of the island to some very nice quite beaches, then to Phuket town, I had to replace a camera that broke, then to a new BIG budha they are building on a tall mountain with a great view, then elephant treking, then to some scenic view points and back home. From 10:30 - about 5-6 in the afternoon.

Cost 1600 baht

[Kath]

Thanks so much to both of you for your response including the re-assurance that the road is in not as bad condition as I had been led to believe . Phew!

Don't fancy taking the chance of being mucked around on a mini-bus and sitting 6/7 hours in a public bus also lacks appeal.

Did a lot of googling and read many rave reviews of this recommended Mr Mor. Have contacted him and he has suggested a friend of his.

Only 5 sleeps to go!

Thanks for helping me make this decision.

[oneday]

Glad to help Kath. Good luck.