Hiking on Koh Tao

Dive into nature and go hiking on Koh Tao to discover hidden beauty, secret beaches, and stunning secluded viewpoints.

There is so much more to explore on Koh Tao than our snorkel and scuba diving sites. Hiking on Koh Tao is becoming increasingly popular, and we’re regularly asked which are the best routes to take for unbeatable views, unique locations, and a glimpse of jungle nature. Some travel agents and local tour operators organize guided trips if you’re not up for hiking independently.

All you need to hit the hiking trails on Koh Tao is a pair of trusty trainers or walking shoes and plenty of water, sunscreen, and mosquito repellant. Don’t forget to grab a map from your accommodation or one of the tourist information points before you set off. Alternatively, download a GPS app to your smartphone. Either way, it’s always a good idea to check in with a couple of island locals too. There’s a whole community of regular hikers who are usually more than happy to help with extra information on directions, turning points, and particular points of interest.

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Easy Hikes in Koh Tao - One Hour or Less

If you’re looking for a short straight-up and straight-down again viewpoint hike, or a scenic stroll around the coastline, then these are the best options for you:

- - Joh Sawan Viewpoint – From the southern end of Chalok, it’s only a 10-15 minute scramble up the hill to reach the rocks at the top for stunning 360 views looking back over the island.
  - Mae Haad to Si Nuan/Banana Beach – With concrete paving all the way, this coastline stroll should only take around 20-30 minutes and is an excellent way to combine a beach day with a little light exercise.
  - Chalok to Mae Haad (or visa versa) – A walking track hugs the headland all the way around from bay to bay. You’ll hit several pretty beaches along the way, and there are a few resorts where you can stop for refreshments.

John Suwan is one of the most popular viewpoints on Koh Tao.

Jungle Hiking on Koh Tao - Two to Three Hours Return

For those who want to explore further inland and experience the peace and tranquility of the jungle, these are a few good options for higher viewpoints and remote beaches:

- - Fraggle Rock – Located high on the mountainside above Sairee, Fraggle Rock is a popular spot for rock climbing and abseiling and is a gorgeous vantage point from which to enjoy the sunset. From central Sairee, it should take about an hour each way.
  - Two View – Further south of Fraggle Rock, the rocky platform at Two View also offers spectacular views over Sairee and across the ocean to Koh NangYuan. If you’re up for an extra 10-minute incline, you can reach the very top of the mountain for views across to the reservoir and the east coast.
  - Laem Thian Beach – The remote beach and deserted resort at Laem Thian is a popular spot for visitors. The beach cannot be reached by road, and there are a couple of places where you can cliff jump from the rocky boulders into the refreshing waters below.

Grape View offers a spectacular outlook over Koh NangYuan.

Half-Day Hiking on Koh Tao

If you want to really get out into nature and explore some of the rarely trodden tracks on Koh Tao, then you’ll need to set aside about half a day.

- - The Lighthouse – Nestled in the far north eastern reaches of the island is Koh Tao’s only lighthouse. The route involves plenty of jungle scrambling, but the views at the end are definitely worth the effort.
  - Grape View – Starting from north Sairee, wind your way up the steep jungle trail (known fondly by many locals as ‘heart attack hill’) to reach this stunning viewpoint that looks directly down over Koh NangYuan. You can either return on the same track or continue onward to complete a loop that brings you out on the Mango Bay road and back down into central Sairee.
  - Mango Viewpoint – Starting from central Sairee, take the Hin Wong Road and turn off towards Mango Bay. When you reach your destination, there are a couple of small rustic viewpoints bars offering well-deserved refreshments after your uphill efforts.

Is Hiking on Koh Tao Safe?

Hiking on Koh Tao is safe as long as you take your time and don’t overdo it in the sun. Here are a few tips to help ensure you have an enjoyable time:

- - Take plenty of water and sunscreen – The daytimes are hot on Koh tao, especially under the jungle canopy where the humidity lingers.
  - Pack some mozzie spray – Once you hit the jungle trails, those little monsters are everywhere! So it’s best to protect yourself from itchy bites.
  - Go with a group – There is safety in numbers, and it’s lots more fun when you share the navigating duties. You can also share the photos and videos you take – and maybe even have someone give you a piggyback if you get tired!
  - If you do go alone – Make sure someone knows where you are going and what time you expect to get back.
  - Take a mobile phone – Some of the more remote areas on the north and eastern coastlines have patchy signal, but otherwise you should be fine.