If you’re planning to go hiking in Thailand, it’s very understandable as there are some of the most beautiful places on the planet, here, to pursue your passion.

Just make sure you prepare for all eventualities. In many areas, the walks are well defined and the paths are famous and well-trodden. In these cases, you don’t need to prepare too much if you’re fit and able – other than for the heat.

As an example, the in Ko Phi Phi Don, the Phi Phi Viewpoint short hike is very popular. It’s something of a short, sharp, shock, though – and it’s like trying to climb 100 flights of stairs in a sauna. So take fluids! You’ll easily find it by following signposts from the road heading eastwards to Ao Lo Dalam from the tourist village.

Phi Phi

The final destination viewpoint is reached by an incredibly steep 300 metre climb that includes hundreds of different steep steps and narrow twisting paths to choose from. But to say the view once you get to the top is worth it would be something of an understatement. You see the most amazing azure sea colours from up here and you’ll probably see Sea Eagles if you’re interested in a little Thai “twitching”.

Ao Nang

Another well-known hiking and sports spot is at Ao Nang. Along with Chiang Mai, Ao Nang is one of Thailand’s two best adventure sports destinations and home to two of the country’s best and most

Various companies run elephant treks in the forests around Ao Nang, on which you get chance to do a little trekking along jungle streams, see wild monkeys and many exotic birds. Or you may decide to do an elephant trek through jungle to Tham Srakaew – an amazing cave with hanging stalactites which was filmed in “The Beach”.

If you’re more adventurous and looking to do some real hiking (probably further north) then make sure you prepare exceedingly thoroughly and do all the research you possibly can. Get the right clothing and equipment too. Despite the heat, get the best (covered…) footwear you can afford in the Merrell sale.

Depending on where you go at what time of year, the temperatures can get cold at night – dangerous after a day’s hiking in the heat. Mosquito nets, Vango sleeping bags, a good lightweight tent, and whatever medication you could need are all basic requirements. Better yet, choose a guided trip.