A nature lover’s guide to Thailand

From mountains to marine parks and tropical rainforests to isolated islands, Thailand is a country with incredible natural diversity. Whatever region you are visiting, you are never too far away from nature. To help you discover more of Amazing Thailand, we’ve compiled a selection of some of our favourite natural escapes.

Thailand’s national parks

To protect wildlife and areas of natural beauty, Thailand has established more than 150 National Parks. Covering every region of the country, they are the ideal place to visit for nature lovers. At some, there is also the possibility to camp overnight or stay in National Park accommodation.

Khao Yai enjoys the distinction of being the oldest National Park in Thailand and is also one of the most convenient to reach from Bangkok. This is one of the best locations in the country to spot wild elephants, and with hiking trails, waterfalls and diversity of wildlife, it’s an ideal complement to a Bangkok itinerary.

Read more about Thailand’s national parks

Thailand’s mountains

Thailand’s biggest and most impressive mountains are located in the north and west of the country, with stunning scenery and cool climates. At 2,565 metres, Doi Inthanon in Chiang Mai province is the tallest and perhaps the most famous mountain in the country.

Doi Suthep may not be as high, but it’s another well-known peak and location for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep that overlooks the city of Chiang Mai below. 

In the northeast of the country, Phu Kradueng in Loei is known for its plateau views and hiking trails. Some of the most beautiful landscapes in the whole of Thailand can be found in the mountainous northwest province of Mae Hong Son. Also in the north of the country, Chiang Rai is home to Phu Chi Fah, and the lovely Mae Fah Luang Garden at Doi Tung, while Phu Kha National Park in Nan is another area with spectacular mountain scenery.

In the west of the country, Kanchanaburi is home to some wonderful mountain hiking trails, including Khao Chang Puak (White Elephant Mountain) and Khao San Nok Wua.

Thailand’s rainforests 

Thailand’s lush rainforests cover large areas of the south and west, stretching through provinces like Kanchanaburi, Ranong, Surat Thani, and Phang Nga. 

The largest and most biodiverse area is in Khao Sok National Park in Surat Thani, where visitors can experience one of the oldest rainforests in the world. Immerse yourself in nature with an overnight stay at the award-winning Elephant Hills or the sublime 500Rai Floating Resort.

The rainforests of Kaeng Krachan, Thung Yai Naresuan, and Huai Kha Khaeng are UNESCO-listed, preserving vital ecosystems teeming with hornbills, gibbons, and rare big cats.

Thailand’s beaches and islands

Thailand is rightly famous for its beaches, and while many have seen development through tourism, there are still many islands and beaches which remain almost untouched. 

Near Ko Samui, visitors can enjoy a day trip to the stunning string of islands that form the Ang Thong National Marine Park. On the Andaman Coast, Ko Tarutao is home to empty beaches ideal for anyone who wants to be close to nature, away from the crowds. Stay overnight in comfortable National Park bungalows or camp under the stars adjacent to the beach.

On the East Coast, Ko Mak has established itself as a pioneer for ecotourism in Thailand. While most tourists visiting this part of the country head to the beaches of Ko Chang, the small island of Ko Mak has resisted mass development and managed to retain its laid-back natural charm.

Read more about Thailand’s beaches and islands 

Thailand’s marine world

Thailand’s spectacular marine world spans the Andaman Sea on the west and the Gulf of Thailand on the east. 

Thailand’s marine attractions are ideal for diving, snorkelling, and island-hopping amid some of Southeast Asia’s richest underwater biodiversity.

In Phang Nga province, the Similan Islands and Surin Islands are world-famous for crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and diverse marine life. Further south on the Andaman Coast, the Tarutao Marine Park protects pristine islands and mangrove ecosystems.

On the Gulf Coast, Ko Tao is Thailand’s scuba-diving capital, while Ko Samui and Ko Pha Ngan offer vibrant reefs and snorkelling spots. 

12 of the best locations in Thailand for diving and snorkelling

Thailand’s rivers and waterfalls

Thailand’s rivers and waterfalls flow through every region, shaping its landscapes and culture. The Chao Phraya River winds through central Thailand and Bangkok, offering scenic riverside views, temples, and floating markets. 

In the north, the Ping and Nan Rivers carve valleys through mountains, while the Mekong River defines Thailand’s northeastern border with Laos. In Kanchanaburi province, soak up the serenity of nature by staying in a floating bungalow at Sai Yok National Park.

Amongst the country’s most impressive waterfalls, Erawan Falls in Kanchanaburi dazzles with seven turquoise tiers, while Thi Lo Su in Tak is the country’s largest and most powerful. 

18 of the best waterfalls in Thailand

Thailand’s hiking trails and viewpoints

Get out and about on a hiking trail or climb some of the best viewpoints in the country. In North Thailand, Doi Inthanon and Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai offer scenic trails through waterfalls, rice terraces, and hill tribe villages.

For coastal hikes, Khao Sok and Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park reveal limestone cliffs and caves. In Krabi, enjoy the panoramic views at Wat Tham Seau or hike the trail at Dragon Crest Mountain and the viewpoint above Railay Beach.

If you’re visiting the Phi Phi Islands, don’t miss the viewpoint on Phi Phi Don. And in Phang Nga province, Samet Nangshe offers up sublime views of the natural wonder that is Phang Nga Bay.

21 of the best viewpoints in Thailand

Thailand’s wildlife

Thailand’s diverse wildlife thrives in its national parks and protected forests. These are home to a host of creatures, including Asian elephants, gibbons, hornbills, sambar deer, and even elusive tigers and leopards in remote regions. 

Among the best places to see animals in the wild are Khao Yai National Park, home to elephants and exotic birds, and Kaeng Krachan National Park, known for rich biodiversity and rare mammals. For the best chance to see elephants in the wild, join a guided safari in the National Parks at Khao Yai, Kui Buri, or Kaeng Krachan.

In the south, Khao Sok National Park shelters tapirs, langurs, and colourful hornbills, while Thungyai-Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary is a UNESCO-listed haven for endangered species. 

Birdwatchers should not miss the fantastic Thale Noi wetlands in Phatthalung, while nearby in Khanom, there is the opportunity to see pink dolphins. Another rare marine creature, the dugong, feeds on seagrass in an area close to Ko Libong in Trang province. Visitors to Thailand are often surprised to find out that you can enjoy whale-watching in Thailand, with the coastal waters near Bangkok among the best locations to see Bryde’s whales.

You can use popular locations like Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket to discover lesser-visited locations and explore the natural diversity of the country. Check out our Itinerary Ideas series for ways to discover more of Amazing Thailand and see our articles about responsible travel for more travel inspiration.

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