Insider Tips for a 1 to 7 days Krabi Itinerary!

Mar 14, 2020

Photo by Chris A. Tweten

Originally Posted On: https://zipupandgo.com/things-to-do-in-krabi-itinerary/

Are you the one who usually plans the holiday itinerary? Quite a bit of work isn’t it?

And now you find yourself going to Krabi province, a gorgeous town in the southwestern part of Thailand. And you’re being tasked to work out the plan.

Well, you have come to the right place, whether you are planning 1 day in Krabi or 1 week in Krabi itinerary.

Along the way, we will also tell you the best places to stay in Krabi, and share with you a few of our favourite places to eat at, and best things to do based on our own trip to Krabi!

But first, let’s get a few usual questions about Krabi out of the way first.

Things to do in Krabi: Save to Google Maps

Here is a Google Map that contains all the places covered in this Krabi Itinerary.

It contains 10 layers, one for each day, 1 for hotel recommendations, 1 for places to eat and lastly 1 for alternative places to visit.

How to use: Take note you will have to be signed in to your Google Account.

On the top left, click on the icon beside the map title and you can see a list of the places in layers.
One the top right, click on the right most icon to open up the map in a new window or in the Google Maps app. This will save the map to your account.
Make sure to do this step so that you can easily refer back to the locations even when you are offline.
Next time, simply open up Google Maps again and find this map under “Your Places” –> “Maps”.

Expert tip: Be sure to download offline maps in Google Maps when you have an internet connection. You might not have data or access to WiFi, and the offline version will come in super handy.

How many days do you need in Krabi?

5 days to make the best out of your time there, but if time is a constraint, then a minimum of 3 days.

On a trip to Krabi, there is so much to explore, from the dangerous looking limestone cliffs at Railay beach to sparkling clear blue waters all around, there really is never a dull moment.

Are you interested in finding out what else to do in Thailand? Check out our post on the 10 Best Things to do in Thailand!

Is Krabi safe to visit?

We do understand why you would want to know this, since Krabi is not exactly as well known as its cousin Phuket Island.

The truth is, it is actually safer to visit than Phuket or the capital Bangkok!

It has a lower crime rate than both of them, and all need is a sensible head and take a few precautions and you will be pretty safe!

Needless to say, you wouldn’t want to be walking around with your new top of the line Rolex watch right?

What should I wear in Krabi?

Being in the tropical zone, the weather in Krabi province is most often hot and humid.

Most of the Krabi activities require you to be outdoors, so it would make sense to dress light, in singlets or lightweight cotton tee shirts. (check out the one below, made with 100% cotton by a responsible manufacturer)

Bermudas and shorts would make good sense, as would a bottle of sunscreen to protect yourself.

Beach wear would be good pretty much everywhere, especially since you are likely to get onto one.

Travelling soon? Don’t forget these essentials!

When is the best time to visit Krabi?

Since you are likely to be outdoors most of the time, it is important to know how the weather behaves during your trip.

The climate in Krabi is tropical, and has 2 distinct seasons, one being dry while the other being rainy.

It changes as the monsoon winds reverses direction, thus creating a high tourist season during the months of December all the way to April.

This period is usually the driest and hence attracts the largest amount of visitors.

The temperature is hottest from April to May, sometimes reaching up to 36 degrees Celsius.

From May to October, the rain starts to set in and Krabi experiences the most rainfall in the months of September and October.

This is the low season and things will be cheapest and you will find the highest availability of hotels this time of the year.

If you wish to avoid the crowds and don’t mind a bit of rain, think about visiting Krabi during June to August.

Heavy showers will be regular but they do not last long, which means that you will still be able to get a fair amount done.

Basic budget required for Krabi itinerary

Accommodation: 2790 THB, twin sharing, mid range
Food: 310 THB, 2 meals, breakfast in hotel
Transport: Depends, but mostly will be included in tour packages. 100 THB should be sufficient for basic transport
Total per person per day: 1805 THB, or US$58

What to do in Krabi?

Krabi is often compared to Phuket, kind of unfairly though.

People tend to ask questions like, is Krabi cheaper than Phuket? Which town is a better one? Compare Krabi vs Phuket etc.

Having been to both places numerous times, we can say that Krabi somehow leaves a deeper impression on us.

People are nicer, more genuine and more hospitable.

This could be due to the fact that Krabi does not receive as many visitors as Phuket, leaving them to be able to be themselves, instead of trying to think of ways to earn some money from the next guy.

They tend to have a more relaxed attitude, sabai sabai, they say.

Anyhow, both are certainly worth visiting, and if you do visit Phuket, you can check out this Marriott resort we stayed in.

We have listed down the things to do in Krabi Thailand, and you can easily mix them up depending on whether you are searching for what to do in Krabi for 3 days, or 1 week in Krabi.

Now, let’s dive in to the itinerary for Krabi, shall we?

Day 1 Krabi Itinerary

Relax and stroll around lively Ao Nang

On day 1, begin your vacation in Krabi leisurely, by spending time in the Ao Nang area.

This is also where you can find the main beach of Krabi, Ao Nang Beach.

Tip: if you want to hang out on the beach, consider hiring a longtail boat to get you to Phra Nang Cave Beach, which is just 10 – 15 minutes away. It should cost you around 200 THB, but be warned. While it is a beautiful looking beach with some great views, it is pretty crowded.

Bonus tip: try out Nopparat Thara which is far lesser in crowds

If you are looking for a place where it is most lively and sees lots of action, this will be it. Plus, this will be your first sight of the Andaman Sea.

Over here, there are lots of shops where you can get just about anything you need, and you can chill out by the beach front.

If you feel adventurous, go talk to the kayak operator near the end of the beach and rent one to go out to sea.

The views are pretty good from here, but we will tell you a better one in a moment.

Try out the street food here, and not forgetting Thai boat noodles, which is absolutely delightful.

It’s a bowlful of umami goodness.

On this day, you can take the opportunity to visit the Ao Nang Elephant Sanctuary.

It is well run by a group of dedicated caretakers and the elephants are well taken care of.

These elephants used to work in logging industries and riding camps, but are now rescued to spend their days in the sanctuary.

You can get your tickets at one of the many tour operators along the streets of Ao Nang, or you can get it here too for your convenience.

At night, the bars come alive and there are night markets to be explored here, although they are not as good as the one in Krabi town, which we will explore more later.

So take it easy on this day and unwind with a drink.

One of the best places to do that will be in a bar or restaurant along Ao Nang beach, where you can even find a seat on the sand itself.

2 days Krabi itinerary

Rock climbing at Railay Beach and Shooting Range

On this day, you will set out for some adventure. Rock climbing!

Take a trip out to Railay Beach, quite possibly the best beach in all of Thailand, or at least Krabi.

Yes, that’s a big statement, but you will understand when you get there.

Surrounded by huge limestone karst and crystal clear waters, the whole area looks like it came out of an award winning picture.

How to get to Railay Beach from Ao Nang?

There are no land transport that can take you there, so you will have to check with the operator along Ao Nang beach.

It is a small booth located along the southern end.

The cost is 100 baht each way and they will set sail for Railay Beach once they have enough people.

If you decide to go rock climbing, we recommend the operator that we used, Real Rocks Climbing School.

They offer pickups from your hotel (only for Ao Nang or Krabi Town) so that makes life so much easier.

First, you will be sent to their school, which is a small shop located near the jetty.

You will then be handed your equipment, which includes the shoes and chalk bag.

This is also where you can deposit your bag. Just bring along your essentials like money and shades.

Once everyone is gathered, you will set off to the jetty, where you will be taken by a boat to Railay Beach, and a short walk will lead you to the climbing spot.

Beginners need not worry, as both of us had never tried it before but we still managed.

You will not be pressured to go higher up, so you set your own pace.

Our rock climbing guide was super funny but professional at the same time, and we learned all the basics from knot tying to belaying from him.

When you climb to the top, and you turn around to face the Andaman Sea, that feeling is exhilarating and peace combined.

Seriously, if there is only one activity to do in Krabi, this is it. We loved it so much!

You can choose either a half or full day tour, and we suggest the half day option if you feel that you are not up for climbing for hours.

It is pretty tough, especially if you have never tried it before.

For the rest of the day, you can choose to either return with the group, or you might want to stay in Railay Beach for a night.

Take note though, prices for hotels here are more expensive than the “main land”.

Here’s a secret tip: for a similar experience without the crowds and cheaper accommodation, go to Tonsai Beach. Or stay there for a great experience.

Whether you choose to return on the same day or stay the night, the next activity is going to be lots of fun too.

As if you haven’t got your blood pumped up enough already, we are taking you shooting!

Across the road, about 300 metres to the left of the climbing school, you will find Krabi Shooting Range.

This is where you can display your marksmanship skills and go trigger happy.

There are lots of different guns to choose from, from hand guns to long rifles, and the range is well managed by a professional team.

Be warned though, the price tag on this activity is not cheap, with each bullet starting at around 100 baht each.

Expensive, yes. But worth it if this is your first time and you want to try out something different.

3 days Krabi itinerary

Kayaking in Ao Thalane and Krabi Town Thailand

First real water activity today, in the form of kayaking at Ao Thalane.

It is located in the southern part of the sub district Ao Luk, and is roughly 50 minutes away by car from Ao Nang.

Ao Thalane, or Thalane Bay, is today widely regarded as sea kayaking central of Krabi.

Not only that, this off the beaten path small town also boasts of the best mangrove swamps for exploration on kayaks.

So take your pick from 2 different types of experiences.

If you choose the sea option, you will find here a really tranquil opportunity to relax and be with nature, paddle into caves and stop at the foot of majestic limestone cliffs for photo memories.

If you choose the mangrove option, you will paddle through dense vegetation, alongside kingfishers and macaques who will be your companion.

Both choices are equally awesome!

Depending on the time you arrive, the tide can make a difference to the entire landscape too, so be sure to ask your guide about it.

When the tour is over, requests for your driver to drop you off at Krabi Town, as this is where you will spend the rest of the evening.

To get in close with the hospitality of the locals, Krabi Town is where you should be at.

Known as a market town, in the evenings, this is the best place in Krabi to visit the night market where you can get super delicious street food.

Strolls along the Krabi Town riverside is highly encouraged!

Its laid back charm is sure to keep you wanting to explore more, and you don’t get the sense that the locals are very much affected by the presence of tourists.

It is quite unlike some of the other popular places where you definitely FEEL like a tourist, from the touts to the hecklers from “local” restaurants.

From Krabi Town, you have lots of options to further your visit here.

Just a short distance away, check out the Wat Kaew Korawaram, or the Wat Kaew Temple.

It is a stunning design, and serves as an important landmark for the locals.

Being devout Buddhists, the Thais come here regularly to pray and give offerings.

As a visitor, you will be amazed by the ornate dragon designs and a grand staircase, and be prepared to soak in the serene atmosphere.

Besides the Wat Kaew temple, here are some other choices that you should check out, or if you stay the night at Krabi Town.

Krabi Tiger Cave Temple – Also known as Wat Tham Suea, it is a majestic Buddhist temple built high up on the limestone cliffs.

The hike up is 1237 steps up. Know your fitness levels and make sure to bring water and take breaks up this strenuous walk.

Khao Khanab Nam Mountains – An icon of Krabi, the 2 limestone peaks stands out among the landscape, with a river dissecting them.

This is where you can come to experience more natural beauty of Krabi and take hikes along the trail.

4 days in Krabi itinerary

Phi Phi Islands – Koh Phi Phi Don

A lot of people are made aware of this gem of an island when the movie The Beach was released. More specifically, Maya Bay.

There are 2 main islands, Koh Phi Phi Don (bigger and main island) and Koh Phi Phi Le (smaller), and we will talk more about Don here.

White sand beaches and turquoise waters, it is picture perfect and the Phi Phi islands have become one of the main places to visit when in Krabi or Phuket. (the islands are easily accessible from both towns)

However, the Thai government has shut down Maya Bay since 2018 due to overtourism.

The massive hordes of tourists left long lasting damages to the bay and the government has done the right thing to shut it down and let it recover.

Even though you can’t disembark on the bay itself today, boat operators will still bring you round to the entrance for a photo op.

But frankly, there are many other wonderful spots to discover, so we would say consider others too.

First up, check out Pileh Bay Lagoon. which is in our opinion superior to Maya Bay.

Stop here for a swim in the crystal clear water and admire the towering limestone karst surrounding you.

Rent snorkelling equipment to have a better view of the world underwater.

And lastly, do not miss making the hike up to the 3 viewpoints in Koh Phi Phi.

It takes about half an hour walk up the trail and you will be rewarded with the best views you can possibly find in Krabi.

Search for the Reggae Bar in Tonsai Village and look out for signs of “Viewpoint 1”, as well as the Tsunami Evacuation Route.

You will know you are in the right place when you see a steep flight of stairs, which is the toughest part of the hike.

An entrance fee of around 30 THB will be collected before you can proceed.

While a day trip here in Koh Phi Phi is one of the most rewarding activities you can do in Krabi, we do suggest that you stay a night if possible.

5 days Krabi Itinerary

Koh Lanta and Krabi island hopping

Love Koh Phi Phi?

Then you need to continue your island hopping adventure by heading over to Koh Lanta, which is more exotic and remote, and is simply a bliss to visit. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand hands down.

There are ferries from Koh Phi Phi to get you to Koh Lanta in 60 minutes, and you can find the schedules here.

Beaches will be the order of the day, and you can find many nice ones here, such as Phra Ae Beach, or Long Beach, Relax Bay, Klong Kong and Klong Dao Beach.

At Klong Dao, you will find the whitest powdery sand and be sure to dip in the water as the waters here are calm and perfect for swimming.

While you are on Koh Lanta, you should also check out Baan Saladan, the centre of activity of the island.

It is here where you can find lower cost accommodation, since most of the resorts on this island are more on the luxurious scale.

It is interesting to be able to find stilt wooden houses here, and they all add to the charm of Koh Lanta.

From Koh Lanta, it is easy to embark on day trips to nearby islands to see more of its surroundings.

Check out the following link for island hopping tours.

6 days in Krabi Itinerary

Klong Thom Hot Springs and Emerald Pool

Back on the mainland, day 6 takes you to the southern part of Krabi.

The Klong Thom Hot Springs is located within a jungle reserve park, far away from the sounds of the city.

There are several “hot tubs” formed by the crashing water, and they measure up to 40 degrees Celsius.

The water in these pools are mineral rich, and are said to heal your body and strengthen it too.

Coming from deep underground thermal springs that are in volcanic chambers, you really must make your way here to enjoy the soothing warm waters and relax away.

Once you had your fill of the warm water, wade down to the stream nearby for a perfect way to cool down.

Next, make your way to another water spot: the Emerald Pool, or Sa Morakot to the locals.

This stunner is located within the same national park as Klong Thom, and is about 1 hour away.

Emerald Pool got its name from the colour of the water, which is really quite amazing.

Visitors can come here for a dip, and while the water is not warm like those in the hot spring, they are pretty comfortable during the day.

From the entrance of the sanctuary, you will need to walk around 800 metres to arrive at the pool, and along the way you get a chance to look at the huge diversity of flora and fauna.

After Emerald Pool, you may want to venture further upstream for a look at the Blue Pool, but swimming is not allowed here, as there are quicksand around the area.

Be very careful when you approach and be sure to be with a companion at the very least.

7 days in Krabi Itinerary

Hike Tab Kak Hang Nak nature trail

Located not far from Ao Nang beach, this Krabi hiking trail is somewhat remote, and you will notice that on your way there.

Which is good news, since you won’t have to share it with others.

To begin hiking Tab Kak Hang Nak, you will see a donation box at the entrance, where a 20 THB donation would be sufficient and appreciated. There are no entrance fees otherwise.

Before attempting the hike, you got to stock up on water, at least 2 litres per person, and maybe a light snack.

Mosquito spray would be useful, so would a tower for wiping perspiration.

This is Krabi, and the humidity and the heat, especially since this trail is within a jungle, trapping all that nasty air. So you’ve been warned!

At the top, your eyes will feast on what can be described as the most spectacular view of Krabi: the entire bay with its limestone karst jutting out of the water, and the golden sand beaches below.

Just stunning.

If you are feeling a bit brave, step out (at your own risk!) to the tongue sticking out of the cliffside.

That’s the best place for a photo op.

Reminds us of Trolltunga in Norway, one of our bucket list places.

This is one of the best hiking spots in Krabi, with the best views of Krabi, and is suitable for most people.

It can get a bit tough, so come in good shoes and pace yourself.

You should be able to reach the top in 2 hours, and allow 4 – 5 hours for a round trip since you will want to spend time taking photos and admiring the vastness of the surroundings. This the last part of your Krabi itinerary.

Getting around Krabi

The locations mentioned here can be somewhat difficult to get to, since the public transport system in Krabi province is not exactly that developed.

The best way to visit these spots will be through hiring a driver for the day, or renting a scooter and driving there on your own.

They are easily found in Ao Nang and Krabi town, so you shouldn’t have any troubles finding one.

Or you can consider the numerous Krabi tours, where all logistics are taken care for you.

Within Ao Nang or Krabi Town, our advice would be to walk, and if you do need to travel longer distances, try the tuk tuk or taxi, or you could be more adventurous and flag down a song taew.

That would be the best way to Krabi Town from Ao Nang and vice versa.

In summary, prices are as follows:

Tuk Tuk – based on negotiation with the driver
Song Taew, or local bus – 50 baht to get from Ao Nang to Krabi Town; shorter distances will cost less
Motorcycle taxi – between 20 – 50 THB per person
Local taxi – negotiate with them; usually 2500 THB for a full day
Rent motorcycle – 250 THB per day

Where to stay in Krabi?

In the Krabi itinerary we have suggested, there are several places where you can spend the night, depending on the location and the activity.

Choosing the right place may be confusing since there are tons of options, but don’t worry.

We have narrowed down the best Krabi hotels for you, so all you need to do is choose one that is suitable for you.

Ao Nang

Railay

Krabi Town

Koh Phi Phi

Koh Lanta

Where to eat in Krabi?

Thai food is great almost anywhere you go, and there are no exceptions here in Krabi.

Besides the stunning beaches, the food here is excellent too.

We have a couple of suggestions, and hope you can explore and find more!

Thai food:

Ton Ma Yom Thai Food Restaurant

262/7 Leela Valley Aonang Soi.11 road, Krabi 81180, Thailand

Bai Toey

Address: 79 81000, 79 Khongkha Rd, Pak Nam, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81000, Thailand

Italian:

Umberto’s (ground floor of Alisea Hotel)

125 Ao Nang, Krabi, 81000, Thailand

What is there to do in Krabi at night?

While most of the activities revolve around the day time, there are some stuff that you can check out at night too.

Krabi does not exactly have a booming nightlife, but it is certainly not lacking in bars and pubs for drinks.

Try out the Ao Nang area and Soi RCA.

Check out Krabi night market for a local experience, you may even find yourself enjoying the life music at the open mic right smack in the middle of the night market!

Watch the Blue Dragon Cabaret, the most famous one in Krabi.

It will leave you in stitches!

Final thoughts about Krabi Itinerary

There you have it, a really in depth post about what to do in Thailand Krabi.

You can easily mix and match your favourites, and we hope you get the chance to make the most of your Krabi visit as much as possible.

It is really a great vacation destination, and it’s never the same experience.

More beautiful islands that you should check out includes:

Koh Poda, or Poda Island tour
Ko Hong, or Hong Island tour
Ko Gai, or Chicken Island tour

So how many day in Krabi do you think is enough for you?

Leave a comment down below if you have questions, and be sure to pin on Pinterest and share with your friends on social media!