Krabi is a majestic destination in southern Thailand, but this town has much more to offer than pristine beaches and dramatic limestone cliffs.

The tropical forests surrounding Krabi are an adventure lover’s playground, and rafting is one of the most thrilling outdoor activities you can embark on here.

Rafting in Krabi is suitable for thrill seekers of all skill levels, with a range of rapids and changing water levels throughout the year.

Here's all you need to know about rafting tours, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Krabi.

What are the best rafting tours in Krabi?

Song Phreak white water rafting

Venture an hour north of Krabi for one of the best rafting locations in Thailand. The Song Phreak River has rapids ranging from Class II to IV, and novice and experienced rafters alike will enjoy the raging water.

You will be picked up in Krabi and taken to an unspoilt corner of Phang Nga province where you will go deep into the Thai jungle. Your journey takes you down 5 kilometers of rapids, rocks and forest, and experienced rafters can even opt for a longer 7 km journey.

For an even more epic journey, you can combine your white river rafting experience with an ATV ride in the jungle or a waterfall trek.

Khao Sok bamboo rafting

This river experience is less daunting than other rafting tours in Krabi, opting for a tranquil nature experience rather than an adrenaline-fueled adventure.

Sit back and enjoy the scenery aboard a bamboo raft that lazily floats through Khao Sok National Park. You will be immersed in a Jurassic setting with jagged rocks and overgrown jungle flanking the river.

This all-day adventure takes you to the oldest evergreen forest in Thailand where you can see a multitude of colorful birds, monkeys and fish. Your raft ride will last around 1.5 hours but you will also enjoy a delectable Thai lunch, a temple visit, and a jungle trek.

How much do rafting tours in Krabi cost?

A basic rafting tour down Song Phreak River costs around US$40 per person for a 5 kilometer experience or you can extend it to 7km for US$50 per person. This rafting tour with a 30-minute ATV ride or a waterfall trek will cost US$60.

Khao Sok Bamboo rafting costs between US$110 and US$130 per person depending on the extra activities that are included in your tour.

What is included?

All rafting tours in Krabi include hotel pickup. This can be arranged from your hotel or there will be a list of pre-determined stops. You will also be under the watchful eye of an expert rafting guide who will give a full safety briefing ahead of your experience. You will be kitted out with a helmet and life vest for safety.

There are a few rafting packages to choose from with a variety of extras on offer. Some of the full-day tours include lunch or even a cooking demonstration in some cases. Other tours also include your entry fee to national parks and a visit to the elephant sanctuary and monkey temple.

Where does it start?

Small tours will pick you up from your hotel while slightly larger tours have pickup points at the biggest hotels in Krabi town. Many people that visit Krabi stay in the resorts at Railay Beach and take the longtail boats to the dock in Krabi where the tour operator picks them up.

How long does it last?

Most rafting tours in Krabi last all day, ranging from 7 to 10 hours. The rafting locations are not in Krabi town and there are also extra experiences packed into the tour for extra value.

When is the best time for a rafting tour in Krabi?

The monsoon season from, July to October, creates wild rapids that will be sure to excite. This rafting might only be suitable for some, depending on the water levels. The end of the dry season is in March and April and some rivers experience very low levels making rafting less exciting.

Is it safe?

Rafting tours in Krabi are safe, but are not recommended for pregnant travelers or travelers with heart problems, back problems or serious medical conditions.

Are children allowed?

Children are allowed on rafting tours in Krabi, but the minimum age ranges from around 4. Check with your tour provider beforehand what the restrictions are.

What happens in case of bad weather?

Krabi rafting tours are dependent on good weather. If the weather is bad, you can opt for a different date or a full refund.

Which other water activities can be done in Krabi?

Travel tips

Wear your swimsuit and bring a dry change of clothes, as you will get wet from head to toe.
Some rafting experiences will allow you to opt out of paddling, a good option if you don’t feel comfortable with your paddling skills.
Rafting tours are often small and take a limited number of participants so book your tour well in advance.
Don’t leave the tour for the last day of your trip. If it needs to be rescheduled due to bad weather conditions, you want a few days to choose from.