Beyond the beaches, Koh Lipe opens the door to untamed landscapes. Trails climb through rainforest, cross rocky ridges, and lead to sweeping viewpoints over the Andaman Sea. Along the way are hornbills in the canopy, rushing jungle streams, and hidden coves that few visitors ever reach. Whether you are tackling Koh Adang’s cliffs or exploring Tarutao’s wild interior, hiking offers one of the island’s most rewarding connections with nature.

Trails to Explore

The climb to Koh Adang’s Chado Cliff is the most iconic hike, rising 300 metres above sea level in less than an hour. The path is steep and shaded, opening at the top to a panorama of Koh Lipe’s coastline best seen at sunrise or late afternoon.

Hidden deeper in Adang, the Pirate Waterfall Trail winds two kilometres through thick jungle. In the rainy season the cascade runs strong, filling a pool where you can cool off after the walk.

For history, Koh Tarutao’s old prison trails cut through jungle reclaimed by nature. The route to Talo Wao Bay is the most accessible, scattered with remnants of the past, while other tracks reach remote beaches and waterfalls.

For something secret, Koh Yang’s rocky coastal walk leads to secluded snorkelling spots with sea eagles circling overhead.

Best Time to Hike

The most comfortable months for hiking are December to March, when the air is cooler and the trails are drier. Views are clearer and routes less slippery. From May to October the rain brings lush greenery and impressive waterfalls, but trails can be muddy and hikes are best kept short, ideally in the morning before storms develop.

Eco-Tips

Stay on marked paths to protect fragile plants and avoid disturbing wildlife. Carry all rubbish out with you, even fruit peels, as wild animals can be harmed by human food. A refillable bottle helps cut down on plastic waste, and a zoom lens allows for wildlife photography without intrusion. If you spot bright cloth tied around trees, remember these are sacred offerings and should never be touched.

Costs and Tours

Guided hikes are easy to arrange and typically cost between 800 and 1,200 THB depending on the distance. These often include national park entry, water, and sometimes a simple lunch. Solo hikers can explore short routes like Chado Cliff independently, but for Tarutao’s longer trails, a guide is highly recommended. During the rainy season most guides provide leech socks at no extra cost.

Quick Guide

• Experience level: From short flat walks to full-day treks depending on fitness

• Family-friendly: Gipsy Cove and shorter Adang paths are ideal for children

• Wildlife: Hornbills, macaques, dusky langurs, sea eagles

• Gear to bring: Good shoes, refillable bottle, insect repellent, waterproof bag, leech socks in rainy months

• Safety note: Start early to avoid heat, check forecasts in wet season, and use guides for remote routes