Best trekking trails on Koh Jum: an adventure for hikers

Best trekking trails on Koh Jum: an adventure for hikers

April 11, 2025

Koh Jum, a picturesque island located in Thailand's Krabi province, is a true paradise for trekkers and outdoor enthusiasts. This small, tranquil island offers incredible opportunities for those who want to explore unspoiled paths, enjoy breathtaking views and immerse themselves in lush tropical nature. Unlike more crowded tourist destinations, Koh Jum has retained its authentic character, making it an ideal destination for adventurers and tranquility seekers. In this article, we will take you on a tour of Koh Jum's best trekking trails, outline their unique features, and share practical tips to help you plan an unforgettable trip to this fascinating island.

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Koh Jum - the an island full of surprises

Koh Jum is a true gem among Thai islands, offering an extraordinary experience for trekkers. The island, although relatively small, hides a wealth of trails and paths that allow you to discover its natural beauty and charming corners. One of Koh Jum's greatest assets is its tranquil nature and lack of crowds of tourists, making trekking on the island a real pleasure for those who appreciate silence and contact with nature.

Trekking trails on Koh Jum lead through dense tropical forests, hills offering panoramic views of the Andaman Sea and lovely hidden beaches. As you wander around the island, you'll come across picturesque fishing villages, rubber plantations or coconut groves, giving you a better idea of the local culture and the way of life of the locals.

It is worth noting that the tourist infrastructure on Koh Jum is relatively modest compared to more popular islands, which is an added bonus for many. This means that trekking on Koh Jum requires a bit more self-reliance and preparation, but the rewards are authentic experiences and the opportunity to explore places that have not yet been transformed by mass tourism.

One of the most popular trails on the island is the route that leads to Koh Jum's highest point, Khao Ka Hill. While the hike can be demanding, especially in the tropical climate, the views from the top are absolutely worth the effort. The top offers a panoramic view of the entire island, the surrounding islands of the Koh Phi Phi archipelago and the blue waters of the Andaman Sea.

Another interesting trail is the route along the east coast of the island, which allows you to discover less frequented beaches and charming coves. This path is relatively easy and accessible to most tourists, while offering beautiful views and the opportunity to cool off in the crystal clear waters during stops.

For more experienced trekkers, Koh Jum also offers more challenging trails through the dense jungle in the central part of the island. These trails require good physical preparation and proper equipment, but reward you with unforgettable experiences and the opportunity to observe rich tropical flora and fauna.

When planning a trek on Koh Jum, there are a few important points to keep in mind. First, the best time for trekking is the dry season, which lasts from November to April. During this time, the weather is more predictable and the trails are more easily accessible. Second, because of the limited infrastructure, it is a good idea to stock up on a map of the island, a supply of water and snacks, and appropriate trekking shoes. Many people also opt to hire a local guide, which can greatly enhance the experience and ensure safety while hiking.

Oriental trekking attractions

Although Koh Jum itself offers great trekking opportunities, you should also consider exploring the surrounding islands and areas that are easily accessible and offer unique experiences for hikers. One such attraction is the 'Phi Phi Islands Jungle Trek', located on the nearby Phi Phi Islands. This trekking tour is extremely popular among tourists, as evidenced by its high rating of 5/5 based on traveler reviews.

Jungle Trek Phi Phi Islands' is an amazing adventure that combines elements of trekking through lush jungle, exploring hidden beaches and viewpoints, and a fascinating lesson in the history and culture of the region. The route takes you through some of the most picturesque corners of the Phi Phi islands, offering unforgettable views of the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea and surrounding islands. What's more, the tour often ends with a night swim with fluorescent plankton, an absolutely magical culmination to an adventurous day.

The 'Jungle Trek Phi Phi Islands' guides are highly regarded for their knowledge, professionalism and friendly approach. They offer information not only about the local wildlife, but also about the history of the islands, including the tragic 2004 tsunami, which adds a deeper, educational dimension to the tour. The tour is suitable for different fitness levels, although it is worth remembering that some sections can be challenging due to the tropical climate and terrain.

Another attraction worth noting is the 'Monkey Trail' in Ao Nang, which received a 4.3/5 rating from visitors. This relatively short trail connects Ao Nang beach to Pai Plong beach, offering a fascinating journey through a dense tropical forest. As the name suggests, monkeys can be seen along the route, which is an added attraction, especially for families with children. The route is well-maintained, with wooden platforms and steps, making it accessible to most tourists.

Monkey Trail' is an ideal choice for those who want to experience tropical wildlife without spending all day. The hike takes about 15-20 minutes one way, offering beautiful views of the sea and surrounding cliffs along the way. However, it is worth remembering that some sections can be steep, and during the rainy season the path can be slippery.

For more advanced trekkers, the 'Khao Ngon Nak Nature Trail', also known as the 'Dragon Crest', presents a real challenge. This trail, rated 4.8/5, offers some of the most beautiful views in the entire Krabi region. The approximately 3.7-kilometer-long trail leads to the top of the mountain, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Andaman coast, surrounding islands and dense rainforest.

The 'Khao Ngon Nak Nature Trail' hike takes an average of 2-3 hours one way and is considered quite challenging due to the steep ascent and tropical climate. However, the effort is lavishly rewarded not only by the views from the summit, but also by the opportunity to observe the rich flora and fauna along the way. Be sure to bring enough water, energy snacks and sunscreen.

Comparing the three attractions, it is clear that each offers something unique. 'Jungle Trek Phi Phi Islands' stands out for its comprehensive experience combining trekking with elements of culture and history, and the added attraction of night swimming. 'Monkey Trail' is a short but intense adventure, ideal for families and those with limited time. The 'Khao Ngon Nak Nature Trail', on the other hand, is for those looking for a real challenge and unforgettable views.

It is worth noting that all of these trails are relatively easy to access from Koh Jum, making the island an ideal base for trekkers. As a result, you can not only enjoy the charms of the island itself, but also explore the surrounding attractions, creating a rich and varied trekking adventure in the Krabi region.

Practical tips for trekkers

When planning a trekking adventure in and around Koh Jum, there are a few practical tips to consider that will help you fully enjoy your treks and ensure your safety during your expeditions.

First, proper physical and mental preparation is key. Trekking trails in the Krabi region, while often accessible to beginners, can be demanding due to the tropical climate and terrain. It's a good idea to increase your fitness by taking regular walks or doing light cardio workouts before you leave.

Choosing the right equipment is equally important. Comfortable, breathable trekking shoes with good traction will be essential. Light, breathable clothing with long sleeves and legs will protect you from the sun and insects. Don't forget a hat or baseball cap and sunglasses.

Water is absolutely key when trekking in the tropics. It is recommended to take at least 2-3 liters of water per person per day of trekking. It's also a good idea to carry energy snacks such as nuts, dried fruit or protein bars.

Protection from the sun and insects is essential. A high-quality sunscreen with SPF 50+ and insect repellent is a must-have for any trekker in Thailand. You should also consider bringing a lightweight rain jacket, as the weather in the tropics can be unpredictable.

When it comes to accommodation on Koh Jum, consider options close to the trekking trails. For example, 'Koh Jum Beach Villas' (rated 4.8/5) offers comfortable accommodations close to the beach, which can be an ideal place to unwind after a day of hiking. On the other hand, 'Friendly Koh Jum' (rating 4.7/5) is praised for its great location and friendly atmosphere, ideal for backpackers and nature lovers.

For those looking for more budget options, 'koh jum bungalow & hostel' (rating 4.1/5) offers simple but comfortable accommodations at affordable prices. This place is highly recommended by backpackers and solo travelers.

It's also worthwhile to use local tour agencies such as 'Koh Jum Family Tour' (rating 4.5/5), which can help organize trekking tours and provide valuable information on local trails and conditions.

Safety should be a priority when trekking. Always inform someone of your trekking plans, especially if you are going on a solo trek. Consider hiring a local guide, especially on more challenging trails. Guides will not only ensure safety, but also enrich the trip with local knowledge and interesting facts.

Remember to respect local wildlife and culture. Follow the 'leave no trace' rule, taking all trash with you. Avoid picking up plants or animals, even if they seem attractive as souvenirs.

It's also a good idea to be prepared for limited cellular network coverage on some trails. Consider taking a paper map or downloading offline maps to your mobile device.

Last but not least, be flexible in your planning. Weather in the tropics can be changeable, so it's a good idea to have alternative plans in case of rain or other adverse conditions.

In conclusion, trekking in and around Koh Jum is an unforgettable adventure that requires proper preparation. With these tips and by taking advantage of the hospitality of local accommodations and tour operators, you can enjoy safe and exciting treks while discovering the beauty of Thai nature and culture. Whether you choose a short route like the 'Monkey Trail' or opt for a more challenging hike on the 'Khao Ngon Nak Nature Trail', Koh Jum and the surrounding area offer an unforgettable experience for any trekking enthusiast.

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