How to Do Jungle Hike to Loh Ba Kao Bay on Koh Phi Phi – Detailed Guide (2024)
Koh Phi Phi Don isn’t just about epic beach parties, it’s also a diverse island full of stunning nature.
After spending a month in Southern Thailand and a week on Koh Phi Phi I can confidently say that few islands in the area offer such easily accessible, yet challenging and rewarding hikes.
If you’re an active person looking for authentic, close-to-nature and affordable experiences, you should add hiking on Koh Phi Phi to your itinerary.
One of the most adventurous trails on Koh Phi Phi Don is the jungle trek to Loh Ba Kao Bay. I explored it by taking two different paths, both of which led me deep into the heart of the jungle, far from the usual crowds.
Read on to learn everything you need to know about this trek, including descriptions of the two jungle paths and how to prepare for your adventure.
Map of the Trails to Loh Ba Kao Bay from Tonsai Village
Loh Ba Kao Bay is located on the northeast side of Koh Phi Phi Don.
How to Hike to Loh Ba Kao Bay on Phi Phi Island
There are two main trails you can take to reach Loh Ba Kao Bay. One starts by following the coastline, and the other leads you through the popular Koh Phi Phi viewpoint.
Both routes take you through the lush tropical jungle before reaching Loh Ba Kao Bay.
I started my hike by taking the trail along the beach and returned via the viewpoint. My goal was to compare both trails and experience as much of the stunning Phi Phi scenery as possible!
Version 1 : Trail Along the Coast and Via Jungle
Path through Tonsai Village
To reach Loh Ba Kao Bay via the coastal trail, start by heading north from Loh Dalum Beach, one of the most popular beaches on Koh Phi Phi, located on the coast opposite to the Tonsai Pier.
If you begin your walk from the middle of town, follow Chakoh Road, which runs parallel to Loh Dalum Beach.
This route is much quieter than the busy tourist center. Along the way, you’ll pass the Tsunami Memorial and the Tsunami Refuge Center.
Continuing north, you’ll arrive at the Only Bar Phi Phi, a perfect spot to take a break, enjoy a stunning view of the bay, and grab breakfast.
Afterward, the trail leads you along a small walking street that runs between beachfront resorts. As you progress, you’ll notice fewer hotels and only a few bungalows built into the jungle cliffs.
There are signs directing you to Loh Ba Kao Beach and Sunset Bay Resort. Be sure not to wander into the resort, as I did.
Trail Along the Coastline
At some point, the paved road ends, and you’ll need to follow a path along a rocky beach.
I particularly enjoyed this part of the trek because it was peaceful and secluded, with the dreamy turquoise waters.
As you continue, the trail becomes a bit trickier as civilization fades away. You’ll come across one last beach bar right by the shore, though it seemed quite empty when I passed by.
On your right, you’ll notice steep stairs leading to bungalows higher up on the cliff, but all you need to do is keep walking along the rocky shore.
This section is a bit challenging, as you’ll need to navigate through large, slippery boulders and even tread water at one point. It was the only part where I questioned whether the trail still existed.
Fortunately, the rocky coast eventually gave way to a clear path through the jungle. While it’s not overly difficult, be careful and take your time.
Jungle Path
From here, you’ll need to climb a hill in the jungle. Although it’s not very tall, it’s quite steep, and you’ll need to use a rope at the start to pull yourself up.
Eventually it becomes easier to climb and it takes about 15–20 minutes to reach the top, and after the steep section. Then you’ll descend towards Loh Ba Kao Beach.
Be careful and take it slow as this part is also steep. You will find ropes placed strategically along the way to help you navigate the challenging path.
The trail ends when dense jungle gives way to the wide village road. After a short walk you’ll quickly see people, houses, and even a school, just a few minutes after leaving the jungle behind.
Version 2 : Path via Koh Phi Phi Viewpoints and Jungle
The second way to reach Loh Ba Kao Bay is by following the jungle trek that starts from the top of the Koh Phi Phi viewpoint in Tonsai Village.
I took this path on my way back, and it offers a different perspective compared to the coastal trail.
The starting point of both trails on the Loh Ba Kao Bay side is essentially the same place. You’ll come to a fork where you’ll need to decide whether to go right or left. To head toward the Viewpoints, take the left path.
The map clearly shows this trail, and there are plenty of signs directing you to the viewpoints. The hike is fairly quiet—I only met three other tourists heading in the opposite direction.
This trek is relatively uneventful, with the jungle surrounding you most of the way. The only major highlights are the viewpoints, and they are definitely worth the hike.
The trail can get steep at times, so be sure to drink plenty of water and take breaks as needed, especially in the heat.
Follow the path carefully, and eventually, you’ll reach the famous viewpoint. From there, you’ll find the well-known staircase leading back down to Koh Phi Phi town.
This trail also provides the opportunity to reach smaller beaches on the east coast of Koh Phi Phi – Ran Tee Beach and Toh Koh Beach, so if you’re up for more adventure, you can continue exploring even further.
Loh Ba Kao Bay Beach and Village
No matter which trail you choose, both will lead you to the same destinations – a crossway at the bottom of the hill, where the jungle paths transition into the village road.
The first thing you’ll notice is the small community of houses belonging to the locals living in Loh Ba Kao Bay village.
Most of these houses are built on stilts due to the area’s wet conditions. Unfortunately, many of the homes appear quite poor, especially when compared to the large resorts located nearby.
As you continue along the road, you’ll see a river running alongside it, bordered by a mangrove forest.
Further along, the road passes a school and some new houses under construction, eventually leading to a small, touristic street lined with restaurants and shops.
This part of Koh Phi Phi is incredibly calm, almost deserted compared to the busy Tonsai Village. While it’s still a touristy area, with tuk-tuks and people heading to the beach, you won’t see large crowds there.
If you’re looking for a more secluded spot or just want a break from the noise, Loh Ba Kao Bay might be the perfect escape.
One thing to note: I didn’t find any ATMs in this area, only basic grocery shops and small restaurants, so it’s wise to bring cash with you.
What to Do Loh Ba Kao Bay Beach
Loh Ba Kao Bay Beach is a beautiful and spacious beach with soft sand and clear waters. While I didn’t spend much time there, it’s an excellent spot for snorkeling.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a kayak and explore the mangroves, where you might spot wildlife like the two huge monitor lizards I saw during my walk.
Although the village is rather small and quiet you will find there few local restaurants, beach bars, massage parlors and even a diving center there.
It is a great destination if you want to stay overnight and are looking for a quieter experience on Koh Phi Phi.
The main disadvantage of Loh Ba Kao Bay is that the southern part of the beach is occupied by the resort and not accessible to visitors. There are even guards warning tourists not to go into the hotel area.
Apart from that, its remote location and lack of nightlife make Loh Ba Kao Bay less popular with tourists.
Other Trails Accessible from Loh Ba Kao Bay
If you love hiking and want to discover even more nature spots on Koh Phi Phi, consider adding to your itinerary other trails accessible from Loh Ba Kao Bay:
Hiking North of Loh Ba Kao Bay
Loh Lana Bay
Loh Lana Bay is a 15-minute walk from Loh Ba Kao Bay on the west coast.
The beach is smaller and more secluded, but also not the cleanest. Though it’s still a peaceful destination, perfect for snorkeling and sunset views.
Nui Beach
Nui Beach is also located on the west coast and close to Loh Lana Bay, but accessible via a challenging and steep hike. Luckily, it’s assisted with ropes.
Known for its turquoise water, and picturesque views, it’s great for swimming and snorkeling, but can get crowded in the afternoon.
Laem Tong Beach
Laem Tong Beach is located at the far north of Koh Phi Phi Don. It is a one-hour walk from Loh Ba Kao Bay, crossing the Mangrove Suspension Bridge and continuing along the concrete road by the shore.
Although the path follows the coastline, it’s situated higher on the cliff, so you won’t be walking right next to the sea.
It’s not a challenging walk, but it does add distance to your trek.
Once there, Laem Tong Beach offers restaurants, beach bars, a diving center, and plenty of trees for finding a shaded spot to relax.
The Northernmost Tip of Koh Phi Phi
If you reach Laem Tong Beach and continue north on the last stretch of the path, you’ll reach the northernmost point of the island.
This part is not paved; it’s just a small path through the jungle, taking around 45 minutes to complete one way.
At the end, you’ll see a flagpole, confirming you’ve reached your final destination on the north of Koh Phi Phi Don.
Hiking South of Loh Ba Kao Bay
Pak Nam Bay
If you want to explore more on your way back to Tonsai Village, your first stop can be Pak Nam Bay.
It’s accessible via a jungle path leading to the Phi Phi viewpoints. You need to take a path on your left before reaching the viewpoint to hike down to the beach.
This hike is quite steep and challenging, and it’s a path where you might see monkeys, so be cautious if you’re carrying food.
Pak Nam Bay has some restaurants and hotels and a good spot for snorkeling, making it popular with day trips.
Ran Tee Beach
Further south, you can reach Ran Tee Beach. To get there, first, hike to Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint 3, then find the path leading down to the beach through the jungle.
This hike is also steep and difficult, but Ran Tee Beach offers excellent snorkeling and a peaceful environment.
Toh Koh Beach
The final path you can take after reaching the Koh Phi Phi Viewpoints leads to the small and secluded Toh Koh Beach.
Located even further south than Ran Tee Beach, this remote destination is accessible via a tough hike. Be sure to follow the signposts in the jungle and be careful when hiking down.
Tips on How to Prepare for Jungle Hikes on Koh Phi Phi
Although hiking trails on Koh Phi Phi Don are not very long, and you could do a loop around the whole island in one day (if you are fit), trekking on a tropical island shouldn’t be taken lightly.
Here are some proven tips to consider before starting your hiking adventure on Koh Phi Phi:
Weather
Thailand’s hot weather will make any hike more physically demanding. If you’re used to trekking in Europe’s or America’s mild climate, hiking close to the equator can be quite a shock.
Even walking on Koh Phi Phi will make you sweat and want to rest on the beach. Now, imagine hiking uphill in the dense, humid rainforest.
When trekking in extreme heat, follow below guidelines:
- Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the worst midday sun.
- Hiking in the evening might not be safe due to fading light and the risk of getting lost in the jungle.
- To protect yourself from the sun wear light, fast drying clothes and a hat.
- Use sunscreen
- Remember to stay hydrated.
- Take plenty of breaks and listen to your body.
- If you feel dizzy and tired, drink water and fuel yourself with snacks.
- Consider cutting your trek short if you don’t feel well. Taking a boat back to your hotel is most of the time an option on Koh Phi Phi.
If you’re hiking in the monsoon season it can get rainy. The trail might get very muddy and slippery, making it more challenging and even dangerous to hike. Don’t risk taking a path that doesn’t look safe.
Footwear
Wear covered shoes for long treks through the Koh Phi Phi’s jungle. I made the mistake of wearing flip-flops, and it didn’t end well—I got stung by a bee and kept hitting my exposed toes on the rocks.
You don’t need proper hiking shoes for jungle hikes on Phi Phi islands, but lightweight sneakers will be a better option than flip-flops.
And if you visit the island during the rainy season, when the trails are muddy, good shoes can make a big difference too.
Navigation
Find a route on a map before starting your journey. I use the Maps.me app on my phone, which can work offline if you download the map earlier. That way, you don’t have to worry about having a data service.
There are multiple crossways, and it’s easy to get unsure of the right path, especially in the dense forest.
Along the coast, the trail can disappear completely, so you’ll need to trust your map and intuition when treading water or scrambling over the rocks.
Insects
Don’t forget to use a bug repellent, before starting your hike. Thailand’s forest can be full of small insects.
You can easily buy a good quality bug repellent in every 7-eleven. My favorite is the one in a pink bottle.
Safety
I hiked to Loh Ba Kao Bay alone, and while it was completely safe, walking solo in the middle of the jungle can feel a bit eerie.
Consider bringing a hiking buddy if you are not comfortable with exploring unknown paths by yourself. Apart from that, there are no significant dangers on the trail.
Essential Packing List for Jungle Hikes on Koh Phi Phi
- Covered shoes or hiking boots
- Map (probably on your phone)
- Water bottle
- Hat
- Bug repellent
- Sunscreen
- Snacks or energy bars
- Lightweight backpack
- Light and Fast-drying cloths
- First aid kit
- Sunglasses
- Camera
- Cash
- Rain jacket or poncho (if hiking during monsoon)
Is Jungle Hike to Loh Ba Kao Bay Worth It?
Hiking to Loh Ba Kao Bay is definitely worth the effort if you enjoy nature and want to see a different side of Koh Phi Phi.
While the trek can be hot and challenging at times, the stunning views, secluded beaches, and the chance to explore the island’s quieter areas make it a rewarding and unique experience.
If you’re exhausted after the hike, you can always take a longtail boat back to the main town.
You can also consider spending a night in Loh Ba Kao Bay. There are plenty of beautiful resorts that offer a peaceful retreat from the island’s livelier areas.
Where is Koh Phi Phi Located and How to Get There
Koh Phi Phi is a group of islands located in southern Thailand. Although they might seem remote, they’re conveniently located in the northern part of the Strait of Malacca, between popular spots in the Andaman Sea.
During the high season, direct ferries and speedboats can take you to Koh Phi Phi from Phuket, Koh Lanta, Krabi Town, and Ao Nang.
If you’re traveling from Bangkok, the best way to reach Koh Phi Phi is by flying to Krabi Airport, then taking a minivan or taxi to the Krabi pier, where you can catch a direct boat to Koh Phi Phi.
You can also fly into Phuket, but the journey from Airport to the Pier is a bit longer than from Krabi Airport.
All ferries and boats land on Koh Phi Phi Don, the largest and only inhabited island in the group.
If you’re visiting other nearby destinations, you’ll find plenty of private and group trips to Koh Phi Phi, most of which head to Koh Phi Phi Leh to visit the famous Maya Bay.
While the scenery at Maya Bay is stunning, in my opinion, it doesn’t quite live up to its fame.
For a more authentic and adventurous experience, plan a longer stay on Koh Phi Phi Don and explore the lesser-known and more authentic parts of the island.
FAQs about trekking Loh Ba Kao Bay
Is it difficult?
It’s not too difficult, but the heat and some steep sections with ropes can make the trek challenging.
Can I hike alone?
Yes, you can hike alone, the paths are safe.
Are the paths marked?
Yes, but some parts can be tricky, so always follow the map.
How long does the hike both ways take?
The hike takes at least 2 hours both ways.
Is it crowded?
No, the trails are usually quiet. I’ve seen very few people during my hike.
Do I need trekking shoes?
You don’t need trekking shoes, but covered shoes are highly recommended.
Are there picturesque views along the way?
Yes, the most beautiful views are by the coast and at the viewpoints.
What can I see?
You’ll see the rocky coastline, turquoise sea, jungle, mangrove forest monitor lizard, and a different side of Koh Phi Phi.
Final Thoughts on Jungle Hike to Loh Ba Kao Bay
Hiking to Loh Ba Kao Bay offers a unique way to explore Koh Phi Phi beyond its famous (but crowded) beaches and vibrant nightlife.
This trek, although not the easiest, provides a chance to discover the island’s natural beauty.
So, grab plenty of water, don’t forget sunscreen and set off on an unforgettable journey through the jungle heart of Koh Phi Phi Don.
