Let me tell you the tale of an enchanting discovery I made during my latest adventures in Phuket — the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project. I was honestly swept away by the sheer magic of this haven, where the preservation and rehabilitation of gibbons take center stage.
What sets GRP apart from other animal experiences in Phuket is its unwavering commitment to ethical practices. It’s not just a run-of-the-mill charity; it proudly operates as a research division under the Wild Animal Rescue Foundation of Thailand (WARF). These devoted souls are not only experts in their field but are also fueled by a passion that knows no bounds.
At GRP, a team of dedicated professionals, from researchers and scientists to seasoned volunteers, joins forces to provide unparalleled care for the gibbons. Their wealth of knowledge and extensive training ensures that each gibbon receives the royal treatment they deserve.
One of the key objectives of GRP is the release of gibbons back into their natural habitat. With two release sites located in Phuket and Chiang Mai, GRP actively works towards restoring these majestic creatures to their rightful home.
Well before you arrive, you’ll hear the gibbons. It’s a fantastic yarp unlike anything I’ve ever heard, with each of them egging each other on until reaching a crescendo.
Our guide first took us through the front of the facility, where we spent about an hour of one-on-one education learning all about gibbons, their habitat, the impact of tourism on poaching, and the rescue efforts that GRP are making to reintroduce them to the wild.
Then, we headed into the back, where we were immediately greeted by rapturous yarps from the crew announcing our arrival.
When our tour came to an end, we headed out into the rainforest. The entrance fee for visiting the centre also grants you access to the entire park for the day, providing ample opportunity to immerse yourself in nature’s embrace. As you venture into the pristine landscapes surrounding Khao Phra Thaeo—renowned for being Phuket’s last remaining rainforest—prepare to be swept off your feet.
There are miles and miles of trails to explore here, but we opted for the short and sweet hike to Bangpae Waterfall —a hidden gem nestled amidst the verdant tapestry. This idyllic oasis serves was the perfect complement to our GRP experience, offering a moment of tranquility amidst the vibrant greenery.
We visited during the wintery dry season, so we only ran into a handful of other people during our hike. During the wet season, the both the waterfall and the crowds swell in size as people come with picnics and swim suits in tow.
Having sufficiently worked up an appetite with all of our morning activities, we headed next door to a lovely little restaurant called Peang Prai and grabbed a table overlooking the lily pond.
The long list of fresh fruit smoothies were so good we ordered seconds, and then thirds.
Tips for the Experience
+ Don’t forget to pack insect repellent; those rainforest bugs can be quite persistent.
+ Make sure to wear closed-toe shoes with a good grip, as the terrain is uneven and filled with wet, slippery rocks.
+ Remember to bring some cash for the entrance fee to Khao Phra Thaeo and the charming gift shop at GRP.
+ If you prefer a language other than English, simply request it during the booking process as multiple languages are available for the tour.
+ Families with children will be delighted to know that an extended, child-friendly version of the tour is offered. Guests have the special opportunity to prepare meals alongside the dedicated caretakers.
Some More Practical Details
2500 THB per family, plus 200 THB per person for entry into the national park. GRP is only open by appointment, so be sure to book in advance. Experiences are bookable directly on Gibbon Rehabilitation Project’s website as well as through Airbnb.
