A promising name for a hike in Krabi, and we really loved this one. A proper, raw jungle grind with a serious sweat to reach the top. Real jungle vibes meaning it was very hot and humid, and full of life. We crossed paths with snakes, spiders, baby dragons and monkeys. There was the sound of the cicadas so loud, it was almost deafening. So wild and intense, but honestly beautiful. So green, so alive.
This is where it starts, made for the tourists.
Soon we were on a proper trail right in the jungle.
A dense, thick jungle, exactly how you would imagine it.
Short but intense
The hike itself is only about 7.5 km in and out, with around 490 m of elevation gain (depending on the route you take), but it’s a constant uphill, no flat sections to chill. At times we even had to crawl on all fours, it was that steep. Exactly what we like. Still, the heat in Thailand and the humidity this close to the rainy season is on another level. Even Stéphanie was dripping, which almost never happens.
Many small baby dragons ッ Maybe they named the trail.
Still not sure if this snake was dangerous or not.
The giant wheel spider had spun its enormous web across many corners of the jungle.
These spiders are known for building huge, perfectly circular webs that can stretch several metres between trees. Despite their intimidating size, they are harmless to humans and spend most of their time waiting in the centre of the web for insects to get caught.
Tiny stingless bees seemed to be everywhere in the jungle around Krabi. Barely bigger than a fly, building their homes inside the trunk of a tree. Unlike honey bees, they cannot sting, which makes them surprisingly gentle. They play an important role in the jungle, pollinating countless tropical plants and helping the forest thrive
At the top, we were rewarded with a panoramic view over limestone cliffs and the Andaman Sea, plus a fresh breeze that really helped a second to cool down. Sitting there on the rock, right at the edge of the cliff, really reminded us of Sigiriya in Sri Lanka.
From certain angles, especially from the sea or nearby beaches, the ridge looks like the back of a dragon. That’s where the name Dragon Crest (Khao Ngon Nak) comes from.
From certain angles, especially from the sea or nearby beaches, the ridge looks like the back of a dragon. That’s where the name Dragon Crest (Khao Ngon Nak) comes from.
By the way, we both hike with @matadorequipment backpacks, they are super light, comfortable to wear and nicely and practically designed. We can totally recommend them. You can get yours with 15% off (and support us) with our affiliate link.
