It seems like such a simple thing to do, to take a walk, but here in the tropical heat timing and venue is everything!
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10 min read
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Published: July 6, 2021


The roads are fine to walk on and you will be joined by runners, cyclists, and dog walkers. Families take picnics here at the weekends and it is a friendly place to get some exercise. Bang Neaw Dam in Cherngtalay, constructed in 2006, is quieter and smaller, but since lockdown now sees many more walkers than before. Dog walkers are prevalent here in the early mornings and later in the afternoons, so please be careful if you choose to cycle as you could get caught up in a leash! The walk around Bang Neaw Dam is 5kms and takes around one hour if you are a strong walker. There are several tracks off the dam, with trails going to the old tin mine museum and a precariously steep hike over the hills to Kamala. Please do not try these hikes alone, you will need water and a friend to go with you. At the reservoirs you will see friendly stray dogs, snakes, water monitor lizards, butterflies, and several types of birds of prey.

There are plenty of lovely spots to stop off for a hydrating drink, try a pit stop at The Lazy Coconut and take a refreshing dip in the pool before drying off and continuing! Other long walks can be had on Mai Khao beach, and in low season you will not see another soul. Normally beaches are safe in Phuket but there have been some recent reports of opportunists lurking around, so please do make sure if you are heading to the quieter beaches to grab a friend to go with you. Better to be safe and it will be more fun with a friend anyhow.

Khao Phra Thaew National Park is home to our last remaining piece of virgin rainforest, and many protected species of animals call it home. Near Ton Sai Waterfall there is a park office which offers local guides that can be hired to assist hikers along forest trails. There are also tour companies that arrange small group excursions through jungle paths. Unless you are with someone who knows the trails, it is best to go with a guide.

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It is a coastal viewpoint and a hike that is definitely worth the travel to the starting point. To get to Black Rock Viewpoint, hike up into the rainforest above Ao Sane Beach to enjoy incredible views of southern Phuket, including Nai Harn Beach, Phromthep Cape, and Koh Man. As the name implies, Black Rock Viewpoint features a huge black granite stone, hence its name. Black Rock Viewpoint’s breathtaking views and the fact that you’re in the jungle make the difficult journey to get to the view all the more unforgettable.
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