Thailand is, of course, best known for her white sandy beaches and coconut trees, with clear blue waters full of marine life, yet there are other sides to this enchanting land and one of those involves the stunning National Parks spread across Thailand and some spectacular hiking trails.
Natural paradise
Once you get outside of Bangkok, it becomes apparent at how green Thailand is; called by many, ‘the land of plenty’ everything seems to grow in abundance in this tropical climate. If you want to experience the sheer beauty of deep jungle and lush rainforest, Thailand is the place for you! English-speaking guides ensure your safety; they have hikes for raw beginners, intermediate hikers and advanced levels for those who have the skills to take on the jungle. Imagine disappearing into the jungle for 3-4 days, with nothing but what’s in your backpack!
Wearing the right gear
Hiking is a serious pursuit and wearing the right gear is a must. A top-rated Kanken backpack would be a great start; they last for years and are designed with serious adventure in mind. Hiking boots are essential, with ankle support and protection, plus non-slip soles. Heavy trousers might feel uncomfortable, but hiking some trails demand long pants; apply mosquito spray or cream on all exposed areas of skin.
Green Resorts
There are more than 120 National Parks in Thailand, with 30 or more located in the northern region, where the best hiking is found. These resorts are also hubs and setting off points for guided hikes; Google can help you find tour operators that focus on adventure holidays in Thailand and you can get your questions answered on their comprehensive website. Here are a few tips on renting e-bikes for outdoor adventure.
Wildlife
It might shock you to learn that in certain parts of Thailand, you could run into a wild Sumerian Tiger! There have been cases of locals being attacked by large wild cats, but do not fret, the experienced guides know all about dangerous animals. Snakes are not an issue, you probably won’t see one, unless you are looking! Wild elephants do inhabit the northern forests and if you’re lucky, your group will have an encounter, which is generally a peaceful experience. Surprising these majestic animals can have consequences, so always listen to your guide and follow their instructions.
No litter policy
As you would expect, the Thai government have strict policies regarding protecting the natural environment; you are expected to leave zero evidence of your presence; your guide will orientate you regarding environment protection and best green practices.
Start with an online search to find suitable tour operators and take the first step to a hiking holiday in Thailand. Make sure to bring your digital camera and lots of memory storage, so you can capture amazing images of stunning rainforest and jungle.