Viking Nature Resort

Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Ko Phi Phi Don, the Viking Nature Resort offers a tranquil oasis for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Located on the serene Loh Dalum Beach, the resort boasts a breathtaking beachfront setting with stunning views of the turquoise waters and limestone cliffs.

The accommodation options at Viking Nature Resort are designed to blend harmoniously with the surrounding environment. Guests can choose from a variety of charming bungalows, each featuring a private balcony or terrace that offers panoramic views of the beach and the tropical landscape. The bungalows are tastefully decorated with natural materials and local artwork, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

In addition to its stunning location and comfortable accommodations, the Viking Nature Resort offers a range of facilities and services to cater to the needs of its guests. The resort features a beachfront restaurant that serves a delectable selection of Thai and international cuisine, as well as a cozy bar where guests can unwind with a refreshing drink while enjoying the sunset views. Other amenities include a swimming pool, a fitness center, a spa, and a tour desk that can assist guests with booking excursions and activities.

The Beach

Description: The beach at Viking Nature Resort is a stunning stretch of white sand, fringed by crystal-clear turquoise waters, and surrounded by lush green hills. The beach is relatively secluded, making it a perfect place to relax and escape the crowds. The sand is soft and powdery beneath your feet, and the water is warm and inviting.

Activities: There are plenty of activities to keep you busy at the beach. You can swim, sunbathe, snorkel, dive, kayak, or simply relax with a good book. The resort also offers a variety of beach volleyball, soccer, and frisbee tournaments.

Tips for swimming and sunbathing: - The water at Viking Nature Resort is generally calm and safe for swimming, but the tides can be strong, so it's important to be aware of the currents. - The sun can be very intense in Thailand, so be sure to wear sunscreen and drink plenty of water. - There are a few shaded areas on the beach where you can escape the sun, but it's best to bring an umbrella or beach tent if you want to stay cool. - The beach is relatively secluded, but there are still a few vendors who sell snacks, drinks, and souvenirs.

Snorkeling and Diving

The waters surrounding Ko Phi Phi are teeming with vibrant marine life, making it a snorkeler's and diver's paradise. Maya Bay, with its crystal-clear waters and stunning coral formations, is a must-visit for snorkelers. Spot clownfish, parrotfish, angelfish, and sea turtles as they glide gracefully through the underwater world.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, Shark Point, located just a short boat ride from Ko Phi Phi, offers encounters with blacktip reef sharks and leopard sharks. Explore the underwater canyons and caves, and witness the mesmerizing spectacle of sharks circling in the deep blue.

If you're new to snorkeling or diving, there are numerous dive shops on Ko Phi Phi that offer courses and guided tours for all levels of experience. They'll provide you with the necessary equipment and safety instructions to ensure a safe and enjoyable underwater adventure.

Tips for beginners:

Start with shallow waters and gradually increase your depth as you gain confidence.
Stay calm and breathe slowly to conserve air and avoid panic.
Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid touching or disturbing marine life.
If you encounter any strong currents, signal to your dive guide and they will assist you.
Hydrate well before and after your dive to prevent dehydration.
Respect the marine environment and avoid leaving any trash or debris behind.

Hiking

Trails

The Viking Nature Resort offers several hiking trails that wind through the island's lush jungle terrain. These trails vary in difficulty from easy to challenging, offering options for hikers of all levels. Some of the most popular trails include the Phi Phi Viewpoint Trail, which leads to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the island and the surrounding sea, and the Monkey Trail, which takes hikers through a dense jungle filled with monkeys and other wildlife.

What to Expect

When hiking in the jungle, it is important to be prepared for a variety of conditions. The trails can be muddy and slippery, especially during the rainy season. It is also important to be aware of the wildlife, as there are snakes, monkeys, and other animals that may be encountered along the way. Hikers should also bring plenty of water, as it can get very hot and humid in the jungle.

Tips for Hiking in the Jungle

Wear comfortable shoes and clothing that you don't mind getting dirty.
Bring plenty of water and snacks.
Be aware of the wildlife and take precautions to avoid being bitten or scratched.
Hike with a friend or group, especially if you are new to hiking in the jungle.
Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to be back.

Sunset Viewpoints

The best places to watch the sunset in Ko Phi Phi are:

Tonsai Tower: This viewpoint is located at the top of a hill on the west side of Tonsai Bay. It offers stunning views of the sunset over the Andaman Sea and the surrounding islands.
Nui Beach: This beach is located on the southwest side of the island and is known for its beautiful sunsets. You can relax on the sand and watch the sun sink below the horizon, or take a swim in the warm waters.
Long Beach: This beach is located on the east side of the island and is another great place to watch the sunset. You can find a spot on the sand or at one of the many bars and restaurants along the beach and enjoy the sunset views.
Viking Nature Resort: This resort is located on the west side of the island and offers stunning views of the sunset from its beachfront restaurant and bar. You can enjoy a cocktail or dinner while watching the sun go down over the ocean.

Tips for photography:

Use a tripod: A tripod will help you to keep your camera steady and avoid blurry photos.
Shoot in RAW format: RAW format will give you more flexibility when editing your photos and allow you to capture more detail.
Use a polarizing filter: A polarizing filter can help to reduce glare and reflections, and can also help to saturate the colors in your photos.
Experiment with different shutter speeds: A slow shutter speed will allow you to capture the movement of the clouds and water, while a fast shutter speed will freeze the action.

Island Hopping

Ko Phi Phi is surrounded by a number of beautiful islands, each with its own unique character. Some of the most popular islands to visit include:

Ko Mai Phai: A small island located just a short boat ride from Ko Phi Phi Don, Ko Mai Phai is known for its stunning white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. It is a great place to go for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
Ko Phi Phi Leh: This island is home to Maya Bay, which was made famous by the movie "The Beach." Maya Bay is a beautiful bay with a white-sand beach and towering limestone cliffs. It is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Bamboo Island: This island is located about an hour's boat ride from Ko Phi Phi Don. It is known for its beautiful coral reefs and is a great place to go snorkeling and diving.
Mosquito Island: This island is located about 30 minutes' boat ride from Ko Phi Phi Don. It is a small island with a few bungalows and a restaurant. It is a great place to go for a quiet and relaxing getaway.
Nui Bay: Located on the eastern side of Ko Phi Phi Don, Nui Bay is a small, secluded bay with a beautiful beach. It is a great place to go for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.

To get to these islands, you can take a longtail boat from Ko Phi Phi Don. The price of a boat trip will vary depending on the island you are visiting and the number of people in your group.

On each of these islands, you can expect to find a variety of activities to enjoy, such as swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, diving, and hiking. You can also find a number of restaurants and bars on each island.

Shopping

Where to Find Souvenirs

Ko Phi Phi is a great place to find souvenirs, from handmade crafts to beachwear. The best places to shop are the night market, the walking street, and the many small shops and boutiques scattered around the island.

What to Buy

Some of the most popular souvenirs from Ko Phi Phi include:

Handmade jewelry
Colorful scarves and sarongs
Wood carvings
Leather goods
T-shirts and other clothing
Beachwear
Souvenirs made from seashells and other natural materials

Tips for Bargaining

Bargaining is expected in Thailand, so don't be afraid to haggle with the vendors. However, be polite and respectful, and don't be afraid to walk away if you can't agree on a price.

Here are a few tips for bargaining in Ko Phi Phi:

Start by offering half of the asking price.
Be prepared to walk away if the vendor doesn't come down in price.
Be polite and respectful, even if the vendor is pushy.
Don't be afraid to bargain for multiple items at once.
If you're buying a lot of items from the same vendor, ask for a discount.

Nightlife

Ko Phi Phi may not be as famous for its nightlife as other destinations in Thailand but it does offer a vibrant, albeit small, selection of bars and clubs that cater to all tastes. From laid-back beach bars to lively nightclubs, there's something for everyone on this island.

One of the best ways to experience the nightlife on Ko Phi Phi is to head to Tonsai Village, the main town on the island. Here you'll find a variety of bars and clubs, from small and intimate to large and lively.

If you're looking for a relaxed evening, try one of the many beach bars that line the coast. These bars offer a variety of drinks and snacks, as well as stunning views of the sunset.

If you're looking for something more lively, head to one of the nightclubs in Tonsai Village. These clubs play a variety of music, from house to techno, and stay open until the early hours of the morning.

No matter what your taste in music or atmosphere, you're sure to find something to suit your needs on Ko Phi Phi. Just be sure to drink responsibly and stay safe.

Food

Local dishes to try

Thai cuisine is renowned worldwide for its bold flavours, fresh ingredients, and variety of dishes. Ko Phi Phi offers a diverse culinary scene, with everything from traditional Thai street food to international cuisine.

Some of the must-try local dishes include Pad Thai, a stir-fried rice noodle dish with shrimp, chicken, or tofu; Massaman Curry, a rich and creamy curry with beef or chicken; and Tom Yum Goon, a spicy and sour soup with shrimp, lemongrass, and galangal.

Where to find the best restaurants

The best places to find authentic Thai food are the local markets and street stalls. These offer a wide variety of dishes at affordable prices. For a more upscale dining experience, there are several excellent restaurants on the island, such as The Cliff, which offers stunning sunset views along with delicious Thai and international cuisine.

Tips for vegetarians and vegans

Ko Phi Phi is a great place for vegetarians and vegans, as there are many restaurants that offer meat-free options. Look for dishes with tofu, vegetables, or mushrooms. You can also find fresh fruits and vegetables at the local markets.

Budget

Cost of Accommodation

Accommodation options on Ko Phi Phi range from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious beachfront resorts. Dorm beds in hostels start at around $10 per night, while private rooms in guesthouses typically cost between $20 and $40 per night. For a more comfortable stay, you can expect to pay $50 to $100 per night for a room in a mid-range hotel.

Food and Drink Prices

Food and drink prices on Ko Phi Phi are generally affordable. You can easily find a delicious meal for $5 to $10, and a bottle of water will cost you around $If you're on a tight budget, you can save money by cooking your meals in a hostel or guesthouse kitchen.

Tips for Saving Money

Travel in the shoulder season (May-June and September-October). Accommodation and food prices are typically lower during these months than during the peak season (November-April).
Book your accommodation and activities in advance. This will help you get the best deals and avoid disappointment.
Eat at local restaurants. Local restaurants are typically much cheaper than tourist-oriented restaurants, and the food is often better.
Take advantage of happy hour specials. Many bars and restaurants offer happy hour specials on drinks and food.
Cook your meals. If you're on a tight budget, you can save money by cooking your meals in a hostel or guesthouse kitchen.
Shop at local markets. Local markets are a great place to find souvenirs and other items at a fraction of the price of tourist shops.
Be mindful of your spending. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of being on vacation and overspend. Be mindful of your spending and stick to your budget.

Viking Nature Resort

Ko Phi Phi