While Thailand is filled with picturesque, white sandy beaches and mouth-watering cuisine it has so much more to offer those looking for excitement while on vacation. From Phuket to Bangkok and up to Chiang Mai, this country has some serious adventure activities that aren’t for the faint of heart; and we’re here to help you decide which heart-pumping activity is right for you. Read on for our top outdoor adventure activities to do while in Thailand.
If you enjoy gazing at Thailand’s breathtaking limestone formations from the beach then we recommend seeing these magnificent boulders up close and personal. Limestone makes for some of the best rock climbing structures in the world and Thailand has plenty of it. Cling to one of our personal favorites, Candlestick Wall on Railay Beach, located in west Krabi, known for its melted wax-like appearance. Click here to check out some more of our suggestions for the best places to anchor in.
Did you know Thailand has some of the best sky diving in the world? Its breathtaking views and beautiful year-round weather are perfect for scheduling a clear jump day. Whether you touch down in a lush green field or on a soft sandy beach, you’re sure to be wowed by a bird’s eye-view of Thailand. Who wouldn’t want to catch views of coral reefs from 13,000 feet!
If you pine for a free fall from the skies but you prefer something more grounded, we suggest signing yourself up for a bungee jump at one of these top-rated jump locations. Talk about a view, one of our favorite jump locations is conveniently located next door to the Pattaya Elephant Camp and Wat Suthawas. Taking the plunge from more than 180 feet is sure to take your Thai vacation to new heights, pun intended!
Exploring Thailand’s jungles like the native Gibbons that can be found swinging through the treetops is an exhilarating experience worth having. Picture yourself zip lining through the treetops with the wind in your hair and not a care in the world. This safe, yet adventurous activity is one of the best ways to discoverThailand’s jungles; and it’s sure to get your adrenaline pumping!
There’s no better way to catch a perfect view than from heart-dropping heights but don’t be fooled, these next water-based activities are just as thrilling and provide breath-taking scenic surroundings.
Monsoon season in Thailand yields more than just a plentiful crop. White water rafting is at it’s finest once the Thai rivers rise. Cruise the Mekong or battle the Mae Taeng, the choice is yours, but no matter which way you decide to travel one of Thailand’s rivers they’ll be sure to offer unbeatable views of the jungle. This activity beats a ride on Disneyland’s Splash Mountain any day!
From land to sea, swimming with sharks is as adventurous as it gets. Fully qualified instructors will guide your dive with the deep blue sea’s giant beasts. Swimming with Whale Sharks has become hard to come by but Richelieu Rock, off of the coast of the Surin Islands, as well as Hin Daeng island are known for being two of the best places on Earth to take a dip with these elusive gentle giants. We suggest asking your guide to take you to one of these locations if you’d prefer a mellower jaunt with the fish. Remember, Great whites aren’t a must if you’re looking to scuba with a few gilled friends.
And lastly, no Thailand adventure vacation is complete without a trip to the emerald cave, Tham Morakot in Trang? This prismatic passage is only accessible by swimming its darkened and slightly submerged cave during low tide. Once you reach the hidden cave you’re sure tobe wowed by its beauty.
Adventure activities in Thailand aren’t limited to the above but they certainly are our favorites. If you’re looking for something more, or less adventurous, check out our See & Do list for other activities we love to do in the Land of Smiles.
Please note that the above tour operators and/or venues are not endorsements from the Tourism Authority of Thailand, merely suggestions of places to visit or things to do.