An island to the Southwest of Thailand, Ko Phi Phi is one of the leading destinations for tourists coming to enjoy the beautiful beaches of Thailand.
My suggestion
Although the island can still offer some postcard images, personally I would recommend another Thai island for your stay, Ko Phi Phi is today, being invaded by mass tourism.
Romain Beuvart
Seasoned Traveller
4
Koh Phi Phi is an island in the Andaman Sea, between Phuket and Krabi, where it's a favorite with young travelers.
My suggestion
If you want to avoid the nightclub scene, which dominates Kho Phi Phi, you can always sleep on the quiet beaches outside the main village. Bear in mind that there is an 'entry tax' of 20 bahts, that goes towards the preservation of the island and its archipelago.
The Khong Chiam region is still largely unaffected by tourism and, for those willing to explore it, offers spectacular scenery and the promise of peaceful days spent well away from the noise and chaos of the urban environment. With its waterfalls, cliffs and rock paintings, Pha Taem is the kind of place you simply never tire of exploring.
Elephant rides have become a major concern in many locations, but are still offered by a handful of so-called "sanctuaries" with the proposition to get close to the exotic and majestic animal. Elephant rides are offered on every street corner and Westerners have little knowledge about the cruel methods to succeed in training these enormous animals.
To set the scene for you, imagine 2,188 km² covered by 80% forest and populated with more than 800 animal species roaming completely free. Add streams, waterfalls and a mountain range amongst 2,000 plant species. Classify it all as a UNESCO world heritage site and you have the Khao Yai national park.