1. Banaue Rice Terraces, Philippines
Rice terraces are a common sight in Southeast Asia, but nothing compares to the spectacular Banaue Rice Terraces in the Philippines, which tower thousands of feet above sea level. These 2,000-year-old terraces were carved into the mountains by ancient indigenous communities, making this a once-in-a-lifetime trekking experience. As you wind your way through remote farming villages and emerald rice paddies, soak up the breathtaking views of this mystical landscape. Banaue is an 8 to 9-hour bus ride from Manila, so make sure you plan for at least 2 or 3 days to visit the terraces.
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Bask in the ancient beauty of the Banaue Rice Terraces
2. Mount Rinjani, Indonesia
What could be more thrilling than climbing an active volcano? As the second highest volcanic peak in Indonesia, Mount Rinjani is the ultimate challenge for hardcore adventurers. The volcano’s rugged majesty is worth the trip alone, but nothing can prepare you for the jaw-dropping beauty of its cobalt blue crater lake. Less intrepid travellers can do the shorter 2-day trek to the crater rim, where they’ll still be guaranteed spectacular views.
The best time to climb Mount Rinjani is during the dry season, from April to November. To get there, fly to Lombok or grab a ferry from Bali. Now’s your chance to go on that big hiking adventure!
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Climbing Mount Rinjani is a challenge, but the views are spectacular!
3. Gunung Mulu National Park, Borneo
If you only visit one national park in Southeast Asia, make it this one. Gunung Mulu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, thanks to its abundant natural wonders and stunningly diverse wildlife. Where else could you explore the world’s largest underground cave, or watch millions of bats take flight at dusk?
Many people come here just to see the famous geological formations known as the Pinnacles – ethereal limestone spires jutting out of the park’s lush vegetation. But be warned: the Pinnacle Summit Trek is quite arduous, and not for the faint of heart! The easiest way to get to the park is by flying to Mulu, usually with a stopover in Kuching.
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Marvel at the natural wonders in Gunung Mulu National Park
4. Chiang Mai hill tribe treks, Thailand
Fancy meeting local tribes in the heart of a lush jungle? Then you’re in luck: Chiang Mai province offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditional culture of its hill tribe communities. Most treks include a village homestay, where you can eat with local families and learn how to cook in the jungle. Trekking options around Chiang Mai are endless, but whichever route you choose, you’re sure to find ancient forest trails, waterfalls, and stunning scenery at every turn. And if hiking isn’t enough, you can even tackle some whitewater rafting or ride an elephant!
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Immerse yourself in local culture during a hill tribe trek in Chiang Mai
5. Cao Bang, Vietnam
If you’re looking to get off the tourist circuit, this remote and magical province in northern Vietnam is your best bet. Blessed with mountains, caves and lakes galore, Cao Bang is every hiker’s dream. Any trekking route you pick should include the awe-inspiring Ban Gioc Waterfall, which is located right on the Chinese border. With cascading turquoise waters framed by verdant peaks, it’s truly a picture-perfect landscape. To get to Cao Bang, fly into Hanoi then hop on the bus for a 5-hour ride.
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6. Luang Prabang, Laos
The lush jungle landscapes and untouched beauty of Luang Prabang province make it an exciting yet accessible destination for hikers of all ages. As you trek past spectacular waterfalls, ancient temples and limestone cliffs, this ethereal scenery will transport you back in time. Make sure you pick a tour that includes kayaking on the Mekong River – it’s the perfect break after a long day of hiking. You’ll also want to explore the unique and fascinating Pak Ou Caves, which are decorated with thousands of Buddha icons.
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Experience Luang Prabang’s breathtaking beauty
7. Inle Lake, Myanmar
The 3-day trek from Kalaw to Inle Lake is one of the most unforgettable ways to visit Myanmar. Along the way, you’ll encounter traditional villages, lush rice paddies and tea plantations, while also sampling authentic Burmese cuisine in local homestays. Bring plenty of water since the trek can get quite hot and dusty, especially if you visit in March or April. But all this exertion will be worth it once you catch that magical first glimpse of Inle Lake, with its vibrant floating villages and iconic fishermen. The 8-hour bus ride from Bagan to Kalaw gets booked up quickly, so you’ll want to plan ahead.
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Don’t miss the iconic fishermen on Inle Lake
8. Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia
As one of the highest mountains in Southeast Asia, majestic Mount Kinabulu should be on every serious trekker’s bucket list. Mount Kinabalu National Park boasts over 5,000 different species of plants and animals, so prepare to marvel at the rich wildlife and stunning scenery during your hike. This 2-day, 1-night trek requires a decent level of fitness – but you’ll forget all your aches and pains once your reach the summit and soak up those glorious sunrise views. To get to Mount Kinabalu, fly into Kota Kinabalu then take a 2-hour car trip to the national park.
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Add Mount Kinabalu to your travel bucket list
9. Phnom Kulen, Cambodia
Ditch the tourist throngs at Angkor Wat and head to Cambodia’s most sacred mountain for a truly mystical trekking experience. The holy site of Phnom Kulen offers many wonders – from glimpses of orange-clad monks to thousands of ancient carvings etched into a sandstone riverbed. When you reach the summit, you’ll be greeted by a huge reclining Buddha statue, as well as breathtaking panoramic views. More intrepid explorers can venture deeper into the jungle, where hidden, centuries-old temples are waiting to be discovered. Phnom Kulen is only 50km away from Siem Reap, so the best way to get there is by car or van.
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Enter the mystical world of Phnom Kulen
10. Flores Island, Indonesia
Blessed with pristine beaches, majestic volcanoes and charming traditional villages, the island of Flores is truly a hidden gem. This hiker’s paradise offers many scenic trekking routes, but the crown jewel here is Mount Kelimutu, which is famous for its three multi-coloured lakes. These stunning lakes are unique because their colours are always changing – from striking reds and greens to bright turquoise hues. Flores is also the gateway to Komodo National Park, so don’t miss the chance to come face to face with the formidable Komodo dragons. The best way to get to Flores is by flying to Labuan Bajo, with a stopover in Jakarta.
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Venture off the beaten path and discover the pristine island of Flores
Excited to start planning your next trekking adventure? Book cheap flights, hotels and car rental via Skyscanner today, or download our free mobile app for easy browsing and booking on the go.
Read more:
- 5 extreme sports in Asia for an epic adventure
- 7 reasons why every adventurous soul should trek to Everest Base Camp
- 8 must-do water sports in Asia: wet, wild, wonderful
- Where to kayak in Singapore & around the region
- 8 must-see places in Southeast Asia for great views
- 10 most fun family trips in Asia
Originally published on 5 June 2015 and updated in June 2017. Any prices are lowest estimated prices only at the time of publication and are subject to change and/or availability.
