About trekking

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A certain physical as well as mental condition is required for a trekking in Thailand. A trekking in Thailand involves walking with luggage on your back (backpack) through natural area with differences in altitude. Temperatures can be hot and/or it can rain, so it is strenuous and not always comfortable and you have to be able to cope with that, physically as well as emotionally. A feeling for adventure and a good physical shape is necessary. During a trekking in Thailand you will sleep in different villages each night and sometimes under primitive conditions (no electricity, no running water). Sanitary conditions are simple (sitting behind a bamboo tree) and overnight stays can be primitive (sleeping in tents or on a wooden floor on a straw mat). These conditions will not be seen as a challenge by everyone. But you will be rewarded by the physical exercise, the magnificence of the nature and the contact with the local people. Trekking in Thailand does guarantee you an unforgettable and sportive experience in culture and nature. Below some tips for a proper preparation of a trekking in Thailand. Most of our trekking in Thailand is light though and can be done without special preparation. Thaitraveldreams offer easy treks in Thailand such as in Khao Yai but also strenuous treks of almost a week such as the Umphang trekking Touching Burma or the forest walks in Tree Tops.

Please note that the day to day programs are indicative and can change, depending on local conditions, the political situation, the weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This can not always be avoided. At all times, however, we will safeguard the original character of each trekking in Thailand as best as possible.

• Be fit. You will need to be able to walk for about 10 km (5~6 hrs) per day along forest trails carrying a pack. If you think you will have problems carrying a heavy rugsack then hire extra porters to help.

• Good trekking shoes or boots are a must.

• Start out early in the day when it is cooler. This will also give you more time to reach the campsite.

• The water in the small mountain streams that have not yet reached any village is usually drinkable, though you will probably want to use water purification tablets or pumps. We recommend that you take food, drinks & sweets with you. You may get thirsty and/or develop an appetite for food or sweet things along the road.

• If you are walking in the rainy season, leeches can be a problem. Leech socks and/or insect repellent on boots and trousers help to deter leeches. Leech socks are for sale at several visitor centers (e.g. Khao Yai) at 70 Baht per pair.

• Ticks can be a problem in the dry season. Check yourself at each rest stop and remove them carefully, ensuring the tick’s head is not left in.

• Don’t have things hanging out of your pack. They will become ensnared in bamboo, rattan, lianas and other vegetation which will make the hike slower and unpleasant to do. Have the pack lower than your head.

• Wear long sleeved shirts and trousers to be protected against mosquitoes and other insects and also to be protected against sharp tree branches.

• While swimming in one of the many waterfalls please wear swimming suits. Women please respect local culture and abstain from swimming topless.

• Use common sense and do not take risks. Waterfalls, especially during rainy season, can be dangerous when coming too close.

Preserve the nature

• Don’t litter. Please carry all non-burnable waste (cans, plastics) clean and crush cans so they take less room in your sack. Encourage your guides to do the same.

• Ensure that cooking fires are extinguished properly before you leave the campsite.

• Do not take glass containers into the park.

• Don’t pick or collect plants, flowers, stones or kill any animals.

• Please obey the instructions of your guide at all times. This is essential for your safety and wellbeing.

Checklist of items to take along

trekking boots with profile	Leech socks (rainy season)	Hat, suncream/ sunblocker	Torch, candles & Lighter
Rucksack & waterproof cover	Insect repellent	Wash & toilet kit	Binoculars
Sleeping bag or blanket	Mosquito itching ointment	Toilet paper	Rope
Waterproof jacket (raincoat)	First aid kit	Waterbottle (1 l)	Camera & filmrolls
Sweaters (cool season)	Personal medications	Sunglasses	Copy of your passport
Long trousers & long sleeved shirt (against sharp branches)		Earplugs (snoring travel mates)

If you want to sleep comfortably then you may consider bringing along an inflatable mattress or purchase one locally.