While for some the ideal holiday is days on end spent rolling around on a beach sucking back juicy cocktails, others want to push themselves to the limit, seeking thrills and adventure. Amazing Thailand's well-developed tourism industry offers lots of backcountry options. Routes have opened up nature's wild side to those who would dare, and many operators have jockeyed into place providing adventure travel options that are professional, well planned, and safe for everyone, from beginners to experts. The following section will give you an overview of the many options, but for planning details refer to the specific destination.
The first thing many people consider for an active vacation is scuba diving or snorkeling. Living coral reefs grace the waters of the Andaman Sea, off Thailand's southwest coast, and the Gulf of Thailand. More than 80 species of coral have been discovered in the Gulf, while the deeper and more saline Andaman has more than 210. Marine life includes hundreds of species of fish, plus numerous varieties of crustaceans and sea turtles. With the aid of scuba gear, divers can get an up-close and personal view of this undersea universe. For those without certification, many reefs close to the surface are still vibrant.
From Phuket you can organize long-term scuba trips on live-aboard boats or you can take a day trip that includes two or three dives. From Ko Phi Phi, Krabi, Ko Samui, Hua Hin, Chumphon, and Pattaya, many operators schedule frequent trips. All are staffed with PADI-certified dive masters, provide quality gear and decent boats, and are licensed by the Tourism Authority. Many offer scuba training and certification packages, and can have you ready to dive in 5 days. Pretty much every beach has independent operators or guesthouses that rent snorkels, masks, and fins for the day. A few boat operators take snorkelers to reefs off neighboring islands -- especially at Ko Phi Phi, Krabi, Ko Samui, and Pattaya.
Thailand's mountainous jungle terrain in the north has become a haven for trekkers, particularly those who wish to visit remote villages inhabited by the tribal people who live there. While the average trek lasts 3 days and 2 nights, some like to go out into the wilds for up to 10 days or more. Trekking usually involves no more than 3 to 4 hours of straight walking on jungle paths. All tours provide local guides to accompany groups, and the guides will keep the pace steady but comfortable for all trekkers involved. Some trips break up the monotonous walking with treks on elephant-back, in four-wheel-drive Jeeps, or light rafting on flat bamboo rafts. Chiang Mai has the most trekking firms, while Chiang Rai, Pai, and Mae Hong Son also have their share of trekking companies. Our best recommendation for trekking is Contact Travel (tel. 05327-7178; www.activethailand.com), a reputable outfitter with custom trips starting from their homebase in Chiang Mai.
Thai officials are taking steps to preserve the nature and wildlife of its many different ecological zones, from swamp jungles in the south, to mountain forests in the north, to underwater marine parks in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. In more than 80 national parks, the kingdom also tries to teach visitors about not only the local wildlife species in residence, but also the delicate balance of each habitat. Many parks have clearly displayed informational exhibits at their visitor centers, trails with bridges and catwalks, and markers explaining the important elements of the environment and its inhabitants. Others provide rudimentary bungalow accommodations or can rent tents and supplies for campers. For more complete information, get in touch with the Royal Forestry Department at tel. 02579-5734 or 02579-7223.
River rafting in rubber rafts and kayaks is also becoming increasingly popular in Thailand, with operators in Pai and Mae Sot, taking small groups down local rivers. Winding through dense jungles, past rock formations and local villages, these trips include camping and sometimes trekking. Rapids are rarely extreme but are big enough to be loads of fun, and safety measures are taken seriously. If you're a true enthusiast, talk to Thai Adventure Rafting in Pai about accompanying a group in your own kayak or canoe.
A few lucky folks know that Thailand is home to one of the top 10 climbing walls in the world. Rock climbing at Raillay beach in Krabi is attracting lovers of the sport, who come to have a go at these challenging cliffs. Views are breathtaking -- truly amazing scenery out into the Andaman and surrounding islands. A few small outfits accept beginners for training or will organize climbs for more specialized experts, providing all equipment necessary.
