Monkey Hill Khao To Sae
Encounter playful macaques and enjoy stunning coastal views on this accessible jungle trek in Phuket.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid the heat, see monkeys
Monkey Hill Khao To Sae
Best Time
Avoid the heat, see monkeys
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Encounter playful macaques and enjoy stunning coastal views on this accessible jungle trek in Phuket.
"A beautiful view of the coast at the top. The monkeys are very curious!"
🎒 Secure Your Belongings
Monkeys are curious and may try to snatch water bottles or phones. Keep valuables close!
💧 Stay Hydrated
The heat can be intense. Bring water, but be extra careful as monkeys love them!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Monkey Encounters
Along the ascent
Observe and interact with numerous macaques in their natural habitat. Be cautious and keep belongings secure!
Panoramic Coastal Views
Summit
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Phuket's coastline and the surrounding islands from the top.
Jungle Trek
Ascent path
A pleasant, albeit warm, walk up an asphalt road through lush jungle scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and the Monkeys
Getting to Monkey Hill
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Secure Your Belongings
Monkeys are curious and may try to snatch water bottles or phones. Keep valuables close! +1
💧 Stay Hydrated
The heat can be intense. Bring water, but be extra careful as monkeys love them!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path is asphalt, but good walking shoes are recommended for the uphill trek.
🚗 Easy Access
Cars and motorbikes can reach the base of the hill, making it convenient to start your walk.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Secure Your Belongings
Monkeys are curious and may try to snatch water bottles or phones. Keep valuables close! +1
💧 Stay Hydrated
The heat can be intense. Bring water, but be extra careful as monkeys love them!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path is asphalt, but good walking shoes are recommended for the uphill trek.
🚗 Easy Access
Cars and motorbikes can reach the base of the hill, making it convenient to start your walk.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Monkey Hill for its accessible jungle trek and rewarding panoramic views of the coast. The main draw, however, is the abundance of monkeys, offering unique wildlife encounters. Some find the hike challenging due to the heat and incline, and caution is advised regarding the monkeys' tendency to snatch belongings.
"Very nice walk up. Actually not difficult, just the hot weather makes it a bit difficult. The path is on an asphalt road. You will meet lots of monkeys along the way. Most of them don't notice you, only the bigger ones are very curious and like water bottles and try to take it from you. 😀
A beautiful view of the coast at the top."
Jana
"Uphill road into the jungle, you can spot many nice monkeys. Recommended, due to the high temperatures in the morning early or in the afternoon. If you stay near Phuket town it is definitely a recommended stopover. Pay attention to your personal items, it is advisable to bring very few things and wear comfortable clothes"
Viola Marqeni
"Wonderful view! Hard hike, the access for cars and motorbikes end at the beginning of the hill so you have to walk the whole way up. Highly recommend later in the day (close to sunset). The monkeys will get close and steal your stuff but overall a fun hike!"
Hayley Nadolny
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Monkey Hill, also known as Khao To Sae, is located in the center of Phuket City and is easily accessible by car or motorbike. Parking is available at the base of the hill, from where you'll begin your walk up.
Yes, it's quite accessible. The road leads up to the beginning of the hill, and then you proceed on foot.
Many visitors use cars or motorbikes to get to the starting point of the hike.
Taxis and tuk-tuks can also take you to the base of Monkey Hill, making it a convenient option.
Yes, it's conveniently located near Phuket Town, making it a recommended stopover if you're staying in the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit Monkey Hill. It's a public area for everyone to enjoy.
Monkey Hill is generally accessible throughout the day. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
To avoid the intense heat and potentially see more active monkeys, early mornings or late afternoons are recommended. Visiting closer to sunset also offers beautiful views. +1
You can bring your own food and drinks, but be very cautious with water bottles as monkeys are known to try and take them.
Yes, it can be a great stopover for a short visit, especially if you're near Phuket Town. The walk up and back with time at the top can take about an hour or two.
🎫 🐒 Onsite Experience
You'll primarily encounter rhesus macaques. They are used to people but can be quite bold.
While generally not aggressive, the monkeys can be mischievous and may try to snatch your belongings, especially food and water. Exercise caution and keep a safe distance.
Stay calm, don't make direct eye contact, and secure your belongings. Avoid feeding them, as this can encourage aggressive behavior.
At the summit, you'll be rewarded with beautiful panoramic views of Phuket's coastline and the surrounding islands.
The path is an asphalt road, so it's not technically difficult, but the steep incline and hot weather can make it challenging. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! You can get great shots of the monkeys and the stunning coastal views from the top.
The summit offers the best panoramic views. For monkey photos, be patient and capture them in their natural environment along the path.
Yes, there have been instances of monkeys snatching phones. Keep your phone secure and be aware of your surroundings when taking pictures.
Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal for photography, offering softer light and potentially more active monkeys.
It's not recommended to try and take selfies with the monkeys, as this can provoke them. It's safer to observe from a distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
📸 Photographers
The panoramic views from the summit are also a must-capture, offering sweeping vistas of the Phuket coastline. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Monkey Hill: The Ascent
While the path itself is clear, the real adventure comes from the abundant wildlife. You'll encounter numerous macaques along the way. Most are accustomed to human presence and will go about their business, but the bolder ones, particularly the larger males, are known to be curious and may approach visitors.
Reaching the summit offers a significant reward: stunning panoramic views of Phuket's coastline. This vantage point provides a beautiful perspective of the island and the surrounding turquoise waters, making the climb well worth the effort.
Monkey Etiquette and Safety
To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit, it's recommended to carry only essential items and keep them securely stored. Avoid wearing excessive jewelry or carrying open bags. If a monkey approaches, remain calm, avoid direct eye contact, and do not make sudden movements.
Despite the need for caution, many visitors find the monkey encounters to be a fun and engaging part of their trip. The sight of these primates in their natural habitat, coupled with the rewarding views from the summit, makes Monkey Hill a popular attraction.
Remember, the goal is to observe and appreciate, not to interfere with their wild nature.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit