When you say Thailand it conjures up images of exotic beaches with beautiful white sand and rich turquoise waters. And although these images are well warranted, there’s also so much more to see and do in this vast region of outstanding natural beauty and invigorating activities.
Night Time Safari in Chiang Mai
Up in the north of Thailand buried in dense jungle and clouds of mosquitos Chiang Mai is a place of tranquility where travelers and tourists often retreat to in order to escape the excited beaches of south Thailand or sheer mania of Bangkok and the Koh San Road. On the night time safari explorers pass through several different zones, each one host to a different range of animals. The savanna safari zone has over 300 animals including white rhinos, hyenas, cheetahs, wildebeests, giraffes, ostriches, zebras, and water buffalos. In the predator prowl zone there are over 200 animals including tigers, lions, vultures, wolves, bears and crocodiles. Seeing these exotic creatures in their own habitat is a priceless experience well worth the late bed time.
Rock Climbing on Railay Beach
Railay beach is a short boat ride from Krabi in south Thailand and its limestone cliff faces boast some of the best rock climbing routes in the southern hemisphere. With a lot of the routes located right on the beach you kick off with sand under your feet before maneuvering up one of the 700 bolted sport climbing routes with a back drop of incredible coastal views. With trained local instructors as well as many enthusiasts visiting the area from around the world you’ll have plenty of people to help you find the best ridge for you. There are beginner 5a’s through classic multipitch 6a’s right up to the extremes of 8c so there’s enough crags here to keep any climber busy for years.
Diving in Koh Tao
The islands of Koh Phangang, Koh Samui and Koh Tao are often associated with the full moon party and pristine white beaches, however they are also brilliant spots for snorkeling and diving. If you’re not ready for all the equipment and don’t want to get your PADI then you can snorkel quite comfortably just off the coast. With breathtaking views above and below the water diving in Koh Tao is highly recommended. Submerged in the crystal clear waters you can swim with brightly coloured fish, admire the beautiful coral gardens and stare in awe at the whale sharks, tiger shark and other large aquatic mammals that might pass you by.
Thailand has some incredible landscapes that offer a plethora of exciting activities, that is, if you can peel yourself off the sunbed.
Rebecca Hall is a freelance writer who does music journalism and travel writing, she’s written articles on tandem skydive and bungee jumping to headline DJs and big bands. She dreams of finding the perfect jump spot.
The best thing about thailand is there is so much diversity, from beaches to mountains to city
Though I have spent a lot of time in Thailand, I have never heard of the “night time safari” in Chiang Mai. Maybe at night it just adds to the danger, tigers and lions can sneak up on you.
I am a little surprised that Jungle trekking, water rafting and the tiger temple aren’t on the list.
There is so much to do in Thailand, I wouldn’t necessarily say these are the top activities, but nevertheless an interesting read.
Thanks for your recommendations. These are just a few of many things you can do. The tiger temple is already very well-known.
If you are scared of tigers and lions sneaking up on you ( not that there are lions in the wild in Thailand, or even tigers), just bring a toy to distract them!