Choosing according to the time you have
| Getaway | Duration from Bangkok | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| Bang Krachao, the "green lung" | 1 h, half a day | Those short of time, by bike |
| Mae Klong and the Amphawa fireflies | 1h30 to 2 h, evening | Couples and boat lovers |
| Erawan National Park (Kanchanaburi) | 3 h, a day | Waterfalls and swimming |
| Khao Yai National Park | 2h30 to 3 h, one to two nights | Wildlife and trails |
An hour from the centre: Bang Krachao
The Phra Pradaeng bend, south of Bangkok, forms a peninsula of gardens, mangrove and raised paths that you explore by bike: see our page on Bang Krachao. It is the nearest nature: you get there by motorbike taxi and boat from the Bang Na pier, and stay for a morning.
In the evening: the Mae Klong river and its fireflies
About 1h30 west of the city, the canals around Amphawa lend themselves to a boat ride at dusk, when the fireflies light up in the mangroves. Boats leave from the market piers; the trip can be combined with the floating market: see our page on the Damnoen Saduak floating market and our guide to the floating markets. Fireflies are seen mostly away from the full moon; ask about the schedule when booking.
Three hours away: waterfalls and forests
Khao Yai National Park
This is the big jungle escape. Allow at least a full day; a night on site lets you set off at dawn to watch elephants and gibbons. Everything is detailed in our page on Khao Yai National Park: entry fees, the Haew Suwat and Haew Narok waterfalls, trails, safety rules around wild elephants.
Erawan National Park, near Kanchanaburi
The multi-tiered Erawan waterfalls are one of the Thais' favourite visits, with turquoise pools where you can swim as you climb. The park is about 65 km north-west of Kanchanaburi town; combine it with the Bridge on the River Kwai, described in our page on Kanchanaburi. The park is crowded at weekends and in the dry season; climb early in the morning and keep shoes that stay on your feet for the rocky sections. Entry fees and opening hours should be confirmed with the National Parks Department.
When to go
The cool, dry season (November to February) is the most pleasant for walking. In the rainy season, the waterfalls are more powerful, but trails are slippery, leeches are numerous and some areas are closed. Our guide to the best time to visit Bangkok details the climate. For more cultural rather than natural excursions, see The best day trips from Bangkok.
Practical tips
- Protection: insect repellent, sunscreen, closed shoes, a light rain jacket.
- Wildlife: never approach wild animals and do not feed them. For elephants, see our guide to ethical elephant experiences.
- Transport: car with driver or organised tour for Khao Yai and Erawan; public transport exists but takes time. Our transport in Bangkok guide explains how to reach the stations and bus terminals.
- Water and money: carry water and cash in baht; there are few ATMs in the parks.
