Phu Soi Dao Trek
Phu Soi Dao National Park, Northern Thailand
Season: October β January
Price: 1000 AUD / person
Rising quietly along the ThaiβLao border, Phu Soi Dao is one of Thailandβs most iconic seasonal treks. Known for its vast pine plateau, steep ascents, and raw mountain character, this trail offers a true test of endurance balanced by moments of stillness and beauty.
The journey climbs through a series of infamous hillsβeach earned by effortβbefore opening onto a high-altitude plateau dotted with pine trees, bamboo groves, and winter wildflowers. From here, the summit of Phu Soi Dao stands tall at 2,102 metres, reachable only during the cool season.
This is not a luxury trek. It is a grounding, physical experience for those who value challenge, simplicity, and the quiet reward of standing above the clouds.
Trip Overview
Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights
Difficulty: β β β ββ (3 / 5) β Moderate
Distance β 15 km (round trip)
Trekking Style: Guided trek Β· Tent camping Β· Seasonal mountain climb
β’ Active adults with good fitness
β’ Trekkers comfortable carrying part of their own gear
β’ Those seeking a moderate challenge without technical climbing
β’ Nature lovers who appreciate simple, raw environmentsAccommodation: Camping & local camp stay
Season: October β January
Not suitable for beginners, those expecting comfort facilities, or travellers with knee or balance issues.
What Makes This Trek Special
One of Thailandβs highest seasonal summits (2,102 m)
Iconic pine plateau with alpine-like atmosphere
Challenging ascents that reward persistence
Winter-only access adds rarity and meaning
Ideal step-up trek for those ready to push further
Camping Style
This trek features high-altitude tent camping on the pine plateau. Campsites are chosen for safety, flatness, and access to water. There are no permanent structuresβeverything is temporary, set up by the trekking team. Nights are cold, and the stars overhead are spectacular.
Food
Meals are freshly prepared by the trekking team, designed for energy and warmth. Expect simple, hearty dishesβrice, vegetables, protein, and hot drinks. Breakfast fuels early starts, lunch is packed for the trail, and dinner is shared around the campfire. Special dietary requests should be communicated in advance.
Facilities
There are no showers during the trek. Toilet facilities are basic and set up at campsites where possible. A proper shower and changing facilities are available at Phu Soi Dao National Park headquarters at the end of the expedition.
Trail Conditions
The trail includes steep slopes, rocky ascents, rope-assisted climbs, and scrambling sections near the summit. Trails may be slippery, especially after rain or morning dew. Hiking sticks are recommended. While paths are marked, this is a remote areaβattention to footing and pace is essential.
Experience Level
This trek is moderate but challenging for first-timers in high-altitude settings. Participants should be fit, confident on uneven terrain, and able to carry part of their personal gear. Some trekking experience is recommended, as this trail requires endurance, careful navigation, and self-reliance.
Weather & Environment
The plateau is cold, especially early mornings and evenings, with strong winds possible. Mist and low clouds are frequent, reducing visibility at times. Weather changes quickly in the mountainsβbe prepared with warm and waterproof clothing. In winter, snow or frost may appear, adding to the adventure and difficulty.
Pack Weight
With porters carrying group gear, participants only need a daypack with personal items, water, snacks, camera, and clothing layers. Pack weight is typically light (~4β6 kg), allowing for a more comfortable hiking experience.
Respect for Nature
Phu Soi Dao is a protected seasonal ecosystem. Follow Leave No Trace principles, carry out all waste, and avoid disturbing wildlife. The alpine plateau, pine forests, bamboo groves, and rare flowers are fragileβrespect for the environment is mandatory.
Trip Itinerary
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The trek begins at Phu Soi Dao Waterfall, where final gear is packed and excess items are left behind. The trail immediately sets the toneβascending steadily through forested slopes and a sequence of famously named hills that test both legs and determination.
As the climb continues, the forest gradually opens and the air cools. By mid-afternoon, we emerge onto the pine plateau, a wide open landscape often wrapped in drifting mist. Camp is set beneath tall pines, and the evening is spent resting, warming up by the fire, and listening to the quiet of the mountain.
Trekking time: ~4β6 hours
Distance: ~6.5 km
Overnight: Pine Plateau campsite (tent)
Meals: Lunch, Dinner -
We wake early to cool mountain air and soft morning light. After coffee and breakfast, we begin the ascent to Phu Soi Daoβs summit.
Todayβs trail is steeper and more technical, with rope-assisted sections, rocky scrambles, and exposed ridgelines. Progress is slow and deliberate. The final push brings us onto the summit, where wide views stretch across mountains and valleys beyond the border.
Lunch is enjoyed at the top before descending carefully back to the plateau. The afternoon is reserved for rest, reflection, and recovery. As night falls, the sky often clears, revealing brilliant stars above the pine forest.
Trekking time: ~5β7 hours
Overnight: Pine Plateau campsite (tent)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Sunrise over the plateau offers a final moment of calm before packing up camp. The descent retraces our steps through forest and hills, requiring focusβespecially on tired knees.
By midday, we reach the trailhead and enjoy a local lunch nearby. A refreshing stop at Phu Soi Dao Waterfall marks the end of the trek before beginning the journey back, carrying with us the quiet pride that comes from completing one of Thailandβs classic mountain routes.
Trekking time: ~4β5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Upcoming departure dates
| Departure | Finish |
|---|---|
| 09 Nov 2026 | 11 Nov 2026 |
| 30 Nov 2026 | 2 Dec 2026 |
| 21 Dec 2026 | 23 Dec 2026 |
| 4 Jan 2027 | 6 Jan 2027 |
