Khao Yai National Park: The Best Safari in Thailand
The best safari in Thailand
Forget the busy streets of Bangkok for a moment. If you want to see the wild side of Thailand, you have to go to Khao Yai National Park. As Thailand’s oldest and most significant national park, it’s the ultimate destination for a jungle safari. From wild elephants and singing gibbons to millions of bats at sunset, our adventure here was one for the books.
The Journey: From History to the Jungle
Our trip to the jungle started with a history lesson in the old capital, Ayutthaya. Before jumping on the train to the park, we had to try the local specialty: Roti Saimai. It looks like a “wig of colorful hair” wrapped in a green pancake, but it’s actually delicious cotton candy!
After a scenic three-hour train ride, we arrived in Pak Chong, the gateway to Khao Yai National Park. We stayed at a stunning jungle lodge for about $30 a night—complete with a luxury pool surrounded by nature. It was the perfect place to relax before the “wild” part of our mission began.
Safari Mode: Leeches, Gibbons, and Scorpions
We headed out for a two-day safari with a local guide. If you’re going to hike here, you need the right gear. I wasn’t wearing a traditional Dutch costume; I was wearing leech socks! They are essential to protect you from the tiny leeches that are everywhere in the humid jungle.
What we spotted:
Gibbons: We were lucky enough to see both blonde and black Gibbons swinging high in the trees.
Hornbills: These massive birds are iconic to Khao Yai.
Macaques: They are everywhere! Pro tip: don’t leave your car windows open unless you want some uninvited furry guests.
The Small Stuff: Our guide showed us giant dung beetles and even a dangerous scorpion hiding in the brush.
The "DiCaprio" Waterfall: Haew Suwat
One of the most famous stops in the park is the Haew Suwat Waterfall. Movie buffs might recognize it from the film The Beach. It’s the spot where Leonardo DiCaprio famously jumped off the cliffs. In 2026, it’s still as breathtaking as ever, though we decided to stay on solid ground rather than take the “Leo leap”!
The Night Spectacle: Millions of Bats
One of the most breathtaking things we experienced wasn’t even inside the park gates. At sunset, we visited a nearby Bat Cave.
Before the show started, we took a dip in a natural spring and explored a “cave temple” filled with Buddha statues and thousands of sleeping bats. But the main event happens when the sun sets: millions of bats emerge from the cave in a long, snake-like ribbon to go hunting for food. It’s a spectacular sight that lasts for nearly an hour.
Practical Tips for Khao Yai (2026)
Getting There: The train from Bangkok or Ayutthaya to Pak Chong is still the most scenic and affordable way to travel. From Pak Chong, you can easily grab a songthaew (local truck) or a private transfer to your lodge.
Guided Tours: You must book a guided tour to see the best wildlife. The guides have “supervision” and can spot a green snake or a gibbon from a mile away.
Leech Protection: If you go during or after the rainy season (June–October), buy the leech socks. You’ll thank me later.
Elephant Sightings: The best time to spot wild elephants is in the late afternoon along the main roads of the park. Keep your distance and listen to your guide!
Booking in 2026: Khao Yai has become even more popular for eco-tourism. Book your jungle lodge and safari guide at least a few weeks in advance, especially for weekends.
Watch the video about the safari adventure
Travel around the best places in Thailand
This was the video about our big adventure in Khao Yai National Park. We have traveled to Thailand many times to visit the most beautiful places. As true nature lovers, we should certainly not miss Khao Sok National Park and the beauty of the island Koh Samui and much more. Watch all our Thailand videos here and read all our blogs about our adventures in Thailand.
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