Living on the Wild Side: 6 Crazy Things to Do in Thailand for Solo Female Travelers

Introduction:

As an independent woman, there’s just something about the thrill of adventure that sets your soul on fire. You don’t want the typical tourist experience – you want to dive headfirst into the culture, embrace the unknown, and experience everything that a country has to offer. That’s why Thailand should be your next destination. You want to have the experience of a lifetime and, at the same time, uncover the daring side of you. With that in mind, here are some of the wild, unexpected, and borderline crazy Things to Do in Thailand while traveling alone as a female in the land of smiles.

Crazy Adventurous Things to Do in Thailand

So, you want some adventure in your life, well, so do I, so let’s head out on this journey together to find a few things that will bring a smile to your face and light your body on fire.

1. Cliff diving in Koh Tao: Koh Tao

Also known as Turtle Island, it is famous for its clear waters and picturesque beaches. What’s not very well known, however, is that it has some of the most incredible cliff diving spots in the world. Just hop on a boat tour, rent a longtail boat, or do it alone and find the nearest cliff to jump from. There are plenty of different heights to choose from – ranging from 5 meters to 15 meters – so you can choose your level of thrill. Just make sure to do it in a safe and responsible manner. My recommendation is to follow the locals and see who is doing what and where. Don’t start jumping in an unknown area that could lead to a broken neck. The thrill is in the jump, not the hospital stay at the end.

Top Cliff Diving Spots in Koh Tao

1. Laem Thian
   • Laem Thian is one of Koh Tao’s most popular cliff diving spots, known for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic rock formations. With jumping points ranging from 3 meters to over 12 meters, it caters to both beginners and seasoned cliff divers. The deep, blue water below provides a safe landing, making it a favorite among adventure enthusiasts.
2. Tanote Bay
   • Another great spot for cliff diving is Tanote Bay. The picturesque bay features a large rock in the middle of the water that serves as a perfect platform for jumps. The heights here range from 3 to 8 meters, offering a variety of options for different comfort levels. The vibrant marine life and coral reefs add to the beauty of this location, making it a great spot for snorkeling after your dive.
3. Aow Leuk
   • Aow Leuk is known for its serene beaches and clear waters, but it also offers some fantastic cliff diving opportunities. The cliffs here are slightly lower, making them ideal for beginners. The calm waters and sandy seabed ensure a safe and enjoyable diving experience.

2. Snorkeling with Whale Sharks

If you’re a lover of sea creatures that are bigger than you, then head over to the southern Gulf Coast of Thailand in Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, or Koh Samui and go snorkeling with the gentle giants. Whale sharks, the largest fish in the world, are found in these waters only at certain times of the year. It’s a unique and surreal experience: swimming alongside these serene creatures is breathtakingly beautiful. Not every day you get to swim with sharks, but here in Thailand, it’s encouraged. Imagine pulling up next to something that is three times your size. If you want to get your heart rate going, you should definitely put this on your list of must-dos while in Thailand.

Now, if you’re itching to get up close and personal with these gentle giants, you’re gonna want to plan your visit during their prime time. March to May and September to November are the months when these beauties grace the Thai waters. Why? Well, the waters are warmer, and there’s a buffet of plankton that attracts these massive creatures.

To increase your chances of swimming alongside these amazing creatures, consider joining a guided snorkeling tour. Yep, leave it to the experts to take you to all the hotspots. Dive operators on Koh Tao are like whale shark whisperers, organizing day trips and liveaboard excursions that include snorkeling with these gentle giants.

Now, let’s talk about the differences between snorkeling and diving. Sure, diving allows for a closer, more intimate experience with whale sharks. You can practically see their eyelashes and exchange Instagram handles. But fear not, my non-diver friend, because snorkeling can also offer some kick-ass encounters. So get that snorkel mask on and prepare yourself for some breathtaking moments.

Speaking of breath, don’t forget to choose tour operators that practice responsible and sustainable wildlife tourism. We want to protect those magnificent creatures and ensure their natural environment stays intact. So, find operators that follow guidelines to minimize the impact on the whale sharks and their home.

And here comes your golden rule when swimming with whale sharks: maintain a respectful distance and keep your hands to yourself. It’s like being at a party – respect personal space, don’t be a party crasher, and don’t touch the wildlife. Simple, right? So listen to your tour operators, follow their guidance, and create an experience that’s safe and enjoyable for both you and the whale sharks.

3. Ziplining in Chiang Mai

Imagine soaring like a bird through the lush jungles of Chiang Mai. This is one of the craziest things you can do while in Thailand. It’s a heart-pumping adventure that is not for the fainthearted. Every part of your body will be screaming with excitement as you fly through the trees, bridges, waterfalls, and jungle canopy. It’s the perfect way to get your adrenaline fix while enjoying the spectacular views of Northern Thailand. The ziplines are not tiny by any means. You’ll have plenty of time to look down and think about your own fate before hopping on, and while you’re blasting your way through the treetops hoping your line won’t break ;-).

1. Flight of the Gibbon (Chiang Mai and Chonburi)
   • One of the most famous ziplining experiences in Thailand, Flight of the Gibbon offers extensive zipline courses in two locations: the ancient rainforest near Chiang Mai and the picturesque forests near Chonburi. With professional guides, high safety standards, and educational components about wildlife and conservation, this experience is both thrilling and informative.
2. Eagle Track Zipline (Chiang Mai)
   • Situated in the beautiful mountains of Chiang Mai, Eagle Track Zipline offers three different courses (bronze, silver, and gold) catering to various skill levels. With options for a 20-platform course that includes sky bridges, spiral staircases, and abseiling, it’s an adventure that combines heart-pounding excitement with stunning natural scenery.
3. Tree Top Adventure Park (Multiple Locations)
   • Found in several locations across Thailand, including Koh Chang, Krabi, and Pattaya, Tree Top Adventure Park offers ziplining courses amidst beautiful settings like tropical islands and dense forests. The courses often include a variety of activities such as tightrope walks, Tarzan swings, and flying skateboards, ensuring a diverse and exciting experience.

4. Elephant Sanctuary

The best way to learn about Thai culture is by spending time with their national animal – the elephant. Elephant sanctuaries are some of the most popular tourist attractions in the country, but not all of them treat their animals ethically. Be sure to do your research and visit sanctuaries that treat the animals humanely. There, you’ll learn how to feed, bathe, and communicate with these gentle giants, and even ride them if you’re so inclined and get a hug from a little guy. This may not be a traditional heart-pumping excursion, but having a baby elephant sit on you may make you think twice.

Top Ethical Elephant Sanctuaries

1. Elephant Nature Park (Chiang Mai)
   • One of the most renowned elephant sanctuaries, Elephant Nature Park provides a safe haven for rescued elephants. Founded by Lek Chailert, a prominent animal rights advocate, this sanctuary offers day visits and volunteer opportunities, allowing you to learn about elephant conservation and help with their care.
2. Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary (Sukhothai)
   • Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary (BLES) is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating elephants from abusive environments. The sanctuary emphasizes small, intimate groups, giving visitors a personalized and impactful experience. A visit to BLES involves walking with elephants, observing their natural behavior, and understanding their stories.
3. Phuket Elephant Sanctuary (Phuket)
   • Known as Phuket’s first ethical elephant sanctuary, this haven is where retired working elephants can roam freely. Visitors can engage in activities such as preparing food, feeding the elephants, and observing them bathe and socialize. The sanctuary prioritizes the elephants’ well-being and aims to educate the public about ethical elephant tourism.
4. Elephant Hills (Khao Sok National Park)
   • Combining luxury tented camps with conservation, Elephant Hills offers an immersive experience in the heart of Khao Sok’s rainforests. The sanctuary provides a hands-off approach, allowing elephants to interact freely without direct contact with tourists. Guests can observe the elephants, learn about their care, and explore the surrounding natural beauty.

5. Attend the Full Moon Party

This is one of the craziest parties in the world, held on a beach in Koh Phangan every full moon. It’s a night of wild dancing, drinking, and trippy neon lights. Tens of thousands of people flock to the island every month to let their hair down and party under the moonlight. It can be an empowering experience for solo female travelers since the island has a friendly atmosphere. However, like any party, remember to stay safe and watch your belongings. I’ve missed this every time I’ve traveled to Thailand, and I can assure you the next time I’m there, it’ll be the first thing on my list. The moon gets huge in this area, and if the drinks are flowing, I’m guessing it’ll be the trip of a lifetime.

The Full Moon Party is held every month on Haad Rin Beach in Koh Phangan. Here’s what you can expect:

• Electrifying Atmosphere: The beach transforms into a massive open-air nightclub with multiple stages, each offering different genres of music, from techno and trance to reggae and drum and bass.
• Fire Shows and Performers: Talented performers entertain the crowds with fire poi, fire skipping ropes, and other fiery acts that add a mesmerizing element to the festivities.
• Neon and Glow Paint: Partygoers deck themselves out in neon and glow-in-the-dark paint, creating a sea of glowing bodies dancing under the black lights.
• Stalls and Bars: The beach is lined with stalls selling buckets of mixed drinks, local Thai street food, and glow accessories.
• Unforgettable Sunrises: The party continues until dawn, with many revelers staying to watch the sunrise over the Gulf of Thailand—a truly magical end to an epic night.

6. Head Down to Walking Street:

Thailand is well-known for its walking streets. In Pattaya or Phuket, you’ll find things you never knew you wanted to see. The energy is off the charts, and you’ll begin to see why when you get there. The drinks certainly flow, and the ladies, lady-boys, and, well, everything else comes out to play. So, if you’re looking for a ride on the wild side, prepare yourself; you never know what you’ll see or what you’re going to get.  It’s an experience, to say the least. So head out on a guided pub crawl and get your drink on.

Walking Street is like a chaotic carnival of debauchery, with bars, nightclubs, and discos as far as the eye can see. Need some live music to get your groove on? No problem, they’ve got that covered. DJ performances? They’ve got that too. Themed parties that will leave you wondering if you’ve accidentally stumbled into a parallel universe? Oh, you betcha!

But wait, hold your curiosity, my friend. Here comes the infamous go-go bars. These places are like the grand finale of Pattaya’s nightlife scene. Dancers taking the stage and giving performances that will leave you equal parts amazed and bewildered. Just remember, these establishments are not for the faint of heart or those easily scandalized. So, if it’s not your cup of tea, feel free to skip this unconventional slice of entertainment.

Now, let’s talk about the secret ping pong shows lurking in the shadows of Walking Street. I won’t go into all the gory details, but let’s just say they involve, um, creative usage of everyday objects. Yep, you heard that right. It’s like a bizarre circus act that you won’t soon forget. But hey, I’ll leave the rest up to your imagination.

If you need a break from all the madness, keep an eye out for the street performers. Musicians, magicians, and other entertainers dot the lively street, adding their own flavor to the chaos. They’re like little beacons of talent amidst the madness.

And hey, let’s not forget about the seafood! Pattaya is known for its fresh and delicious seafood, and Walking Street boasts a few seafood restaurants where you can tantalize your taste buds. Imagine dining with a view of the sea, savoring juicy prawns and delectable fish dishes. It’s like dining with an oceanic backdrop that enhances the whole experience.

Conclusion:

Thailand has earned its reputation as one of the wildest and most adventurous countries in the world for solo female travelers. These five activities are just the tip of the crazy iceberg – there are countless other adventures waiting to be explored. Whatever you choose, Thailand is sure to fulfill your wildest dreams and desires. It’s an unforgettable country that will make you feel alive and remind you of just how bold and brave you truly are. So, what are you waiting for? Book that ticket and embark on a journey of a lifetime!   And always remember, no matter where you go, to always Travel Till You Drop!