Hiking, Wildlife, and Nature

Thailand is a country blessed with diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests and towering mountains to serene beaches and crystal-clear rivers. Its extensive national parks offer nature lovers a chance to explore these diverse ecosystems, hike scenic trails, and encounter fascinating wildlife. This guide highlights some of the best national parks in Thailand, focusing on hiking opportunities, wildlife experiences, and must-see natural wonders.

1. Khao Sok National Park

• Location: Surat Thani Province, Southern Thailand
• Best For: Jungle trekking, wildlife spotting, and lake exploration
• Top Activities:
  • Jungle Trekking: Khao Sok is one of the oldest rainforests in the world, offering numerous trails that take you through dense jungles, bamboo forests, and limestone cliffs. Guided treks are recommended to spot rare wildlife, including gibbons, hornbills, and langurs.
  • Cheow Lan Lake: Explore the stunning Cheow Lan Lake, surrounded by towering karst formations. You can take a boat tour or kayak across the emerald waters, discovering hidden caves and waterfalls.
  • Night Safari: Join a guided night trek to spot nocturnal animals such as civets, slow lorises, and various bat species.

Wildlife: Asian elephants, Malayan sun bears, tapirs, and over 300 bird species, including the rare great hornbill.
Best Time to Visit: November to April (dry season)

Tip: Stay in a floating bungalow on Cheow Lan Lake for a unique experience and easy access to water-based activities.

2. Doi Inthanon National Park

• Location: Chiang Mai Province, Northern Thailand
• Best For: Mountain hiking, waterfalls, and birdwatching
• Top Activities:
  • Doi Inthanon Summit: Hike to the highest peak in Thailand, Doi Inthanon (2,565 meters), which offers stunning views and a cool climate. There are several shorter, scenic walks near the summit, such as the Ang Ka Nature Trail.
  • Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail: This 2-3 hour loop trail offers panoramic views of valleys, waterfalls, and mist-covered mountains, making it one of the most scenic hikes in the park.
  • Waterfall Tour: Explore some of Thailand’s most beautiful waterfalls, including Wachirathan, Sirithan, and Mae Ya Falls.

Wildlife: Goral, serow, and over 400 species of birds, including the rare green-tailed sunbird.
Best Time to Visit: November to February (cool season), when the park’s famous misty mornings and blooming flowers create a magical atmosphere.

Tip: Bring warm clothes, as temperatures at the summit can be surprisingly cool, especially in the early morning.

3. Erawan National Park

• Location: Kanchanaburi Province, Western Thailand
• Best For: Waterfall hiking and swimming
• Top Activities:
  • Erawan Waterfall: The main attraction of the park is the seven-tiered Erawan Waterfall, which cascades over limestone cliffs into emerald pools. The 2-kilometer trail to the top tier passes through lush forest, with several swimming spots along the way.
  • Cave Exploration: The park is home to several caves, including Phartat Cave and Wang Bahdan Cave, where visitors can admire impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

Wildlife: Macaques, monitor lizards, and a variety of freshwater fish in the waterfall pools.
Best Time to Visit: November to February (cool season), when the weather is pleasant and the waterfalls are flowing at their best.

Tip: Bring a swimsuit and water shoes for a refreshing dip in the pools. Try to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

4. Khao Yai National Park

• Location: Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Central Thailand
• Best For: Wildlife safaris, birdwatching, and waterfalls
• Top Activities:
  • Wildlife Safari: Khao Yai is Thailand’s first national park and one of the best spots for wildlife viewing. You can spot wild elephants, gibbons, and hornbills on guided safari tours, either by vehicle or on foot.
  • Haew Suwat Waterfall: Made famous by the movie The Beach, Haew Suwat Waterfall is one of the park’s most popular attractions, with a short trail leading to a picturesque viewing spot.
  • Birdwatching: Khao Yai is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to over 300 species, including the great hornbill and the oriental pied hornbill.

Wildlife: Elephants, tigers, gibbons, macaques, and over 400 species of birds.
Best Time to Visit: November to February, when the weather is cool and dry, making wildlife spotting more enjoyable.

Tip: Book a night safari to increase your chances of seeing nocturnal animals like civets, porcupines, and even the elusive leopard.

5. Phu Kradueng National Park

• Location: Loei Province, Northeastern Thailand
• Best For: Mountain hiking and panoramic views
• Top Activities:
  • Summit Hike: The main challenge in Phu Kradueng is the 9-kilometer hike to the summit, which takes around 4-5 hours. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and cliffs.
  • Sunset and Sunrise Viewing: Once at the summit, head to Pha Nok Aen Cliff for a stunning sunrise or to Pha Lom Sak Cliff for a dramatic sunset over the mountains.
  • Waterfalls and Ponds: Explore scenic spots like Tat Hong Waterfall and Pha Na Noi Pond near the summit.

Wildlife: Wild boar, deer, macaques, and various bird species, including the Siamese fireback.
Best Time to Visit: October to February, when the weather is cooler and the trails are drier. The park is closed during the rainy season (June to September).

Tip: Phu Kradueng is popular with Thai hikers, and many camp overnight at the summit. Bring camping gear or rent it at the park’s campsite.

6. Mu Ko Similan National Park

• Location: Phang Nga Province, Southern Thailand
• Best For: Snorkeling, diving, and island exploration
• Top Activities:
  • Snorkeling and Diving: The Similan Islands are renowned for their crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, making them a top destination for underwater activities. Elephant Head Rock and East of Eden are famous dive sites where you can see manta rays, sea turtles, and a variety of reef fish.
  • Island Hopping: Explore the park’s 11 islands, each with pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and scenic viewpoints. Koh Similan (Island 8) offers a fantastic view from Sail Rock.
  • Birdwatching: The islands are home to species like the Nicobar pigeon and white-bellied sea eagle.

Wildlife: Sea turtles, manta rays, reef sharks, and tropical fish.
Best Time to Visit: November to April, when the seas are calm and visibility is high. The park is closed from May to October due to the monsoon season.

Tip: Book your diving or snorkeling trip in advance, as daily visitor numbers are limited to protect the marine environment.

7. Ao Phang Nga National Park

• Location: Phang Nga Province, Southern Thailand
• Best For: Kayaking, limestone cliffs, and caves
• Top Activities:
  • Kayaking: Paddle through the emerald waters of Phang Nga Bay, exploring dramatic limestone karsts, sea caves, and hidden lagoons. Popular routes include paddling around James Bond Island (Koh Tapu) and Koh Panak.
  • Cave Exploration: Visit Tham Lot Cave, where you can kayak through tunnels illuminated by shafts of sunlight and discover ancient stalactites and stalagmites.
  • Island Hopping: Explore nearby islands like Koh Panyee, a floating village built on stilts, or Koh Yao Noi for a more tranquil experience.

Wildlife: Macaques, sea eagles, monitor lizards, and diverse marine life.
Best Time to Visit: November to February, when the seas are calm and the weather is cooler.

Tip: Hire a local guide for kayaking to ensure you visit the best-hidden caves and lagoons at the right times, as tides can affect access.

8. Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary

• Location: Uthai Thani Province, Central Thailand
• Best For: Wildlife spotting and conservation
• Top Activities:
  • Wildlife Viewing: Huai Kha Khaeng is one of the best places to spot Thailand’s elusive wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and elephants. The sanctuary is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its biodiversity.
  • Trekking: There are several nature trails where visitors can trek through the jungle, though most of the sanctuary is closed to the public to protect the wildlife.

Wildlife: Tigers, leopards, elephants, bantengs, and gaur.
Best Time to Visit: November to February, when wildlife is more active, and temperatures are cooler.

Tip: Stay at one of the nearby eco-lodges and hire a park ranger for guided wildlife tours to increase your chances of spotting elusive animals.

Conclusion

Thailand’s national parks offer a rich diversity of landscapes, from mountainous regions in the north to marine parks in the south, providing ample opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re seeking a challenging trek up Thailand’s highest peaks, diving in pristine coral reefs, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of waterfalls and rainforests, these parks offer something for every nature lover.

Final Tips:

• Plan Ahead: Check park opening hours and seasonal closures, especially for marine parks that close during the monsoon season.
• Respect Wildlife: Maintain a safe distance from animals and avoid feeding them. Follow park rules to ensure the preservation of the natural environment.
• Bring the Essentials: For hikes, bring plenty of water, sun protection, insect repellent, and appropriate footwear.

Enjoy exploring the natural beauty of Thailand’s national parks!