Hiking and trekking tours in Khao Yai

From single-day budget hiking trips to wildlife photography tours and multi-day private excursions that take you deep into the wilds, the Khao Yai area’s many tour companies will probably have what you’re looking for. Though many travellers hit Khao Yai independently, those who want the best chance of spotting wildlife should splash out for a local trail guide.

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Most budget companies run group tours in songthaews (pick-up trucks with roofed benches out the back), while pricier private tours tend to rely on cars, vans or Jeeps. All tours include drinking water, at least one meal, leech socks, guide and often a pick up service, but some do not cover the park entrance fees.

No monkeying around when you pick a good tour company. Photo taken in or around Khao Yai tours, Khao Yai National Park, Thailand by David Luekens.

No monkeying around when you pick a good tour company. Photo: David Luekens

Nearly every company offers a day tour inside the park for 1,300 to 2,000 baht per person, with discounts for kids, and a half-day tour to the Khao Luk Chang bat cave for around 500 baht. Several companies also run multi-day tours. They don’t all follow the same paths so do read on, but keep in mind that this is not a comprehensive list of all Khao Yai tour operators.

Starting with smaller outfits, we’ve heard great things about Ms Nang, a bird-watching expert who spent years living in the United States and is now the only guide available through her own company, Thailand Your Way. She specialises in private Khao Yai tours but has experience in several Thai national parks along with a great reputation. You might also consider Mr Jay, a soft-spoken wildlife photographer and jungle guide based in Pak Chong who offers affordable private tours through his Khao Yai Trekking page and local hotels.

No matter what your interest, Khao Yai tour companies will likely have something to suit. Photo taken in or around Khao Yai tours, Khao Yai National Park, Thailand by David Luekens.

No matter what your interest, Khao Yai tour companies will likely have something to suit. Photo: David Luekens

Another excellent option for private tours is TonTan Travel, named after the trail guide and wildlife photographer owners who once served as fixers for a NatGeo Wild TV shoot. Single-day tours start at 1,600 baht per person, though TonTan is best known for multi-day jungle experiences. Itineraries are flexible, focusing on wildlife spotting, bird watching, photography, serious trekking or a little of everything. They also offer tours to Kaeng Krachan National ... please log in to read the rest of this story.