Planning to Hike in South East Asia? Don’t Miss These 10 Spots

Love hiking and planning a trip soon to South East Asia but don’t know where to start?

Well, if you’re an avid freak hiker like I am, then you have come to the right place.

Recently, I just finished my travels in South East Asia and to be honest; it was one of my favorite trips so far!

Just to put it out there, I have traveled so many places, and by far, South East Asia is majestically beautiful in the form of mother nature. The entire experience itself will take your breath away.

There are many sights to see, different cultures to feel and types of food to taste! Anyhow, that’s another time to tell!

For now, this article will not only focus the top 10 best spots for hiking in South East Asia 2023 but also provide a guide for each of these places so you can be prepared for your trip.

These 10 places are known for their raw wildlife culture and peaceful, beautiful sceneries. The best part, you don’t need to bring any specialized equipment for hiking except your excitement, confidence and a little stamina!

Moreover, all of these 10 places will be listed according to my travel itinerary, as I strategically visited due to the distance of these countries and it was cheaper regarding travel budget.

Nonetheless, this article is a guide to help you plan an amazing trip experience in South East Asia.

Banaue Rice Terraces, Ifugao, Philippines

This ancient terrace is not only known to be the 8th wonder of the world but also it’s a 2000-year-old rice terrace that was carved by the ancestors of the local people in Ifugao.

In other words, it’s a whole different world out there as the terraces are strikingly fascinating and the view is mesmerizingly beautiful. If you want the whole experience, it is recommended to spend one night.

Above all, this whole trip is ridiculously cheap and don’t forget to visit the Tappiya Waterfalls.

Mount Kinabalu, Sabah, Borneo Malaysia

Another World Heritage Site, Mount Kinabalu is the highest mountain in South East Asia.

This mountain is not only a symbol of home for many different kinds of wildlife but also to the indigenous people. Keep this in mind that this trip requires a guide and a 1-night stay if you want to hike to the peak.

Lastly, the hike’s journey is slightly treacherous so be ready at your best when it comes to physical fitness.

Mount Rinjani, Lombok Island, Indonesia

This active volcano is not only known for its breathtaking view but also known to be the home to a crater lake, Segara Anak. There are no words to describe except that this crater lake is enchantingly beautiful.

Keep in mind; the hike is not easy, and you may need a licensed guide for this location. At the same time, the duration of your stay depends on how much you want to cover around the mountain. You can spend up to 5 nights.

Ijen Crater, East Java, Indonesia

If you want to see one of a kind active volcano, then Ijen Crater is the one.

This site is one of the top recommended volcano places to be visited. In other words, you don’t want to miss out as you get to see the striking glows of blue flames, which is a result of a combination of sulphuric gases in contact with the air.

Overall, the duration of this trip takes 2 days.

Mount Bromo, East Java, Indonesia

One of the most selected hike sites, this iconic mountain, is known for its desolation beauty.

Not only you get to see the Sea of Sand but also you get to view the breathtaking of the raw-in-nature landscape during the sunrise.

Above all, there’s an interesting myth that surrounds this active volcano. For more experience than just a hike, visit between the month of September and November, as you’ll get to see the locals throwing food into the crater.

It is recommended to hire a guide for this hiking experience.

I guarantee you that this will be the easiest hike you’ll ever do in your life.

Mount Ophir, Johor, Malaysia

This mountain, known as Gunung Ledang, is a popular destination for amateur hikers. If you’re looking for a simple and easy hike, this is the place to be.

Not only is this place popular for its Malay traditional folk story but also, the trail is relatively easy.

Overall, it’s a great experience for those who enjoy the simplicity of hiking and the blissfulness of nature.

Mount Fansipan, Sapa, Vietnam

Mount Fansipan is the highest mountain in Vietnam.

Known for its wildlife culture, hiking Mount Fansipan can be easy if you’re an avid hiker and in perfectly good shape.

The hike itself is rough, but the basis of it is simple. In other words, you don’t need equipment to hike except just be prepared for the rugged surroundings.

Other than that, it takes at least 3 days to reach the peak and to go back to the town. It’s a great location for those who are up for the challenge.

Lake Yeak Laom, Ratanakiri, Cambodia

The lake is not only known for its mesmerizing clear turquoise waters but also its unspoiled nature surroundings. Another great location for hiking.

This place allows you to enjoy its surroundings and swim in the lake at the end of your trail.  In addition, you will get the chance to meet the locals who are not only friendly in nature but also learn that their culture is deeply rich in stories.

The best part, you get to see the parrots, which surround the lake, as it is their home.

Doi Inthanon, Chiang Mai, Thailand

A favorite spot among tourists. This hike is slightly different from the others as there are no proper trails to reach the summit.

On your way to the summit, you will find a National Park, where you can trek a short trail that goes through the forest area.

Overall, this hiking experience is serene and meaningful as you get to see the different types of plants and the surrounding area is breathtakingly beautiful in its simplicity form.

Other than that, you don’t really need a guide, as the trek is simple to follow but if you want to know the background of the forest, then go ahead!

Inle Lake, Myanmar

You have probably heard about the serene beauty of the Inle Lake from many travelers and guides, and to be honest, it’s all true.

Trekking from Kalaw to Inle Lake was not only an incredible journey but also you get to witness the raw scenes of the local tribe’s culture and lifestyle.

Additionally, the best time to hike is during the month of September and October as you get to witness the Phaung Daw U Festival.