Khao Lak affords trekking enthusiasts a wide range of wilderness routes and tracks to explore. Home to the Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park, the sheer variety of nature trails and hiking hotspots is likely to overwhelm visitors. Whether you are an experienced hiker hoping to explore flora and fauna in off-the-beaten-track Khao Lak or a first-timer that wishes to spend more time outdoors, here are some tips to help you navigate Khao Lak's best hikes safely and with ease.

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Those who intend to go hiking or spend hours trekking in the wildernesses of Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park would benefit from staying in a conveniently located base hotel. Considered one of the top things to do in Khao Lak, trekking in Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park can be a rewarding experience for those who can reach the national park without the hassle and spend more time outdoors, thanks to the reserve's close proximity. So whether you choose the Avani+ Khao Lak Resort or any similar rest, make sure it is not too far from the waterfalls you wish to chase and travelling to and from the national park does not need to be an added strain.

Travellers who are navigating the Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park hiking trails for the first time would benefit from learning more about each trekking route and what to expect. From considering the type of terrain you will be coming across to the wildlife and plant species you are likely to spot, it is crucial to have some understanding of what the trek will encompass. Although it is impossible to prepare for every eventuality, those who research the trails that they intend to walk encounter fewer surprises on the road and are safer regardless of the natural threats inherent in any outdoor environment.

While the Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park is a perfectly safe hiking destination, even for inexperienced trekkers, there is no reason to embark on such a journey alone. Hiking with a friend or travel companion can not only make for a more pleasant experience but also provide a safety buffer should you get injured or face some difficult circumstances during the trek. It is important to discuss the route you wish to take and how strenuous the hiking experience is likely to become with your trekking partner before embarking on the journey. You should also consider setting up an emergency plan if one of you must go for help.

Every hiker heading out to the Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park or any other wilderness in Khao Lak must carry a waterproof day bag with a few essentials. In addition to bottles of water and snacks, your day bag should include a few first-aid items, such as Band-Aids and antibiotic sprays for cuts and scrapes. Extra socks, an additional t-shirt or a pair of shoes may also come in handy if your outfit happens to get wet or drenched due to rainy weather. An extra jacket and a box of matches or a torch will also prove useful if it gets dark before you make it back from your hike while keeping some kind of navigational or GPS device such as a compass is also prudent for those who are embarking on longer excursions.

Khao Lak is a tropical landscape where humidity is a daily fact of life, so staying hydrated during your hiking tour is necessary, even if it is not a day-long tour. In addition to bottled water, one should consider packing other liquids such as vitamin water, king coconut water or an energy drink, as these can help the body restore and reset faster after strenuous physical activity. Hikers must also be extra careful when visiting waterfalls inside the national park, as the area around the cascades is dangerously slippery.