HIKING & CAMPING: SOUTHERN THAILAND

Within southern Thailand, national parks are typically more dense with mangrove swamps and wetlands. Here lies Phru To Daeng or Phru Sirindhorn in Narathiwat, which is one of the world’s largest peat swamps. In Khao Chong Wildlife Development and Conservation Promotion Station in Trang, pleasant walking trails through streams and waterfalls are part of the attractions.

HIKKING & CAMPING: NORTHERN THAILAND

Vegetation in the north is less congested when compared to a typical tropical rain forest. Here cool to temperate-weathered vegetation can be found such as the Wat Chan Pine Forest located in Chiang Mai at Wiang Ping. Also located here is Mae Ya Waterfall in Doi Inthanon (Thailand’s highest mountain), dropping more than 25 metres at southern end of the park. Treks to the highest peaks during the cool season will take you to a view of a sea of thick mist and fog. Virtually all peaks in northern Thailand enables viewing of mist however, noteworthy view points for this spectacular sight are Doi Inthanon Natioanl Park, Huai Nam Dang National Park (Kiew Lom View Point), Mae Wong National Park (atop Mokochu Mountain), Phu Chi Fa in Chiang Rai and lots more.

HIKING & CAMPING: WESTERN THAILAND

Thailand’s national parks are well endowed with great waterfalls which are a great stop-over point for trekkers and bikers alike. Among the more famous and fantastic of them are Erawan Falls (probably the country’s most famous waterfall) at Erawan National Park. A noteworthy itinerary is provided by some operators that combine an interesting route to national parks. For instance, cycle or travel by mini van to Phetchburi province from Bangkok, followed by a short sea canoe experience across the bay to get to Sam Roi Yod National Park (which is also accessible by road). Upon arrival to Sam Roi Yod , take a 1.5 hour trek to the Tham Phraya Nakhon, a cave located at the top of the hill. The cave has a large opening which lets in a stream of light upon, Khuha Karuehat – an antique Gazebo constructed by King Rama V.

HIKING & CAMPING: CENTRAL THAILAND

Nature treks in Thailand are as diversified as its 5 different regions. Within central Thailand where Khao Yai National Park is located, vegetation are typically lush tropical forests with a large number of wildlife particularly wild elephants, red bull, gaur and horn bills. Khao Yai offers night time animal watch trekking as well as viewing platforms.

The overwhelming 18-tired Tho Thip waterfall in Kaeng Krachan National Park is also located within the central region and it best visited during the rainy seasons from July to early October. During the cool season between November to January, treks to the highest peaks will be rewarded with an awe-inspiring view of a sea of thick mist and fog. This can be viewed within Khao Yai National Park at Lonely Peak (Khao Yai’s highest peak).

HOW TO GET START TREKING

Depending on your interest, the national parks offer a great number of activities within the protected areas. To fill your time in the parks, you can go on jungle treks, trekking and wildlife observation, bird watching, mountain biking and river rafting (this includes bamboo rafting and white water rafting). Each national park within Thailand is managed independently therefore it is best to consult a travel company specializing in ecotourism and adventure travel to identify the best itinerary for you. Being in Thailand, jungle treks by elephant back is also an interesting option. Some tour operators also provide interesting treks past tribal communities especially in northern Thailand where visits and home stays within hill tribe families can be arranged. On rare occasions, some travel operators offer rides on ox-carts through small villages in the outskirt of national parks.