Hikes in Surat Thani - Best Hiking Trails to Explore on a Tour of Surat Thani

This challenging hike into the mountains in Surat Thani is nearly 10km long and not for the faint of heart. Taking nearly 4 hours to complete, the hike begins from a sea level altitude and reaches upwards of 500m and back down the mountain once more. There are some steep sections so don't forget to wear your hiking boots and drink plenty of water. The roads are mostly made up of dirt and concrete paths. Those who are prone to altitude sickness or suffer from chronic knee issues may want to sit this one out.

Setting out from the Koh Samui Nature Reserve, this lengthy hike to one of the island's most breathtaking waterfalls is another difficult hike reserved for seasoned trekkers. Although the trail is only 10.2km long, this hike also takes around 4 hours in total and reaches altitudes of up to 645m. The views from Samui Viewpoint and the opportunity to stop by Pra Buddha (Wat Thale) and the 360 Restaurant, however, are well worth the effort and hikers can also marvel at the scale of the Khun Si Waterfall once they reach their final destination.

Tourists based at SAii Koh Samui and other similar Koh Samui beachfront villas must also venture down to Surat Thani to experience the Khao Sok Rainforest Trek. The length of the hike is unlikely to take more than 2 hours. Covering 6.7km in all, the entire journey takes place at an elevation that does not exceed 130m. This dense forest lined with limestone karsts is awe-inspiring to behold as the entire area is an ecological wonderland that's also home to 5% of all the species inhabiting the earth.

This short and easy-to-navigate trail is ideal for those who are new to hiking tours. The journey back and forth can be completed in less than an hour as the trekking area only stretches on for half a kilometre.

This trail begins from a small snack shop named Rai Yaa Pan Restaurant and winds its way to one of Surat Thani's finest lookout points. The concrete roads leading up to the top extend for over 8km and the hike takes more than 2 hours in all. While one is likely to encounter plenty of stray dogs along the route, they are harmless if left to their own devices. The panoramic views are some of the best in the region.

It is crucial to wear sturdy sneakers or hiking boots for a trek along the Hog Trail as this 5.2 km walk can be difficult in parts and easy in others. Those with an hour or two to spare will find this forest trail the perfect way to spend a morning or afternoon in the wildernesses of Surat Thani.