When you think of 4x4ing, images of Aussie bush tracks, dusty trails, and creek crossings probably spring to mind. But take that rugged spirit of 4×4 adventure and drop it in the jungles of Northern Thailand, and you’ve got yourself an off-road experience like no other.
Last year, I packed up the two kids, boarded a Jetstar flight and landed in the chaos of Bangkok, where we then, made our way north to Chiang Mai, where we did exactly that. From bamboo-lined tracks to village backroads and hilltop temples, a 4×4 trip in Thailand offers something fresh for off-roaders keen to explore beyond their backyard.
So, what’s it really like to hit the tracks in Thailand? Here’s everything you need to know.
What’s it like to 4×4 in Thailand?
Imagine a steep, rutted trail winding through a jungle so thick you half expect Tarzan to swing past. The road is narrow, unsealed, and flanked by banana and bamboo trees. Then, just as you crest the track, you’re greeted by a 700-year-old wooden Buddhist temple shrouded in mist. Welcome to Thailand’s off-road scene.
The 4×4 tracks in Northern Thailand are a mix of unsealed roads, village paths, and mountain trails. There’s no bulldust here, but you’ll find plenty of washouts, potholes, and creek crossings. And unlike back home, you might share the road with water buffalo or the occasional dog that refuses to budge.
If you’re an experienced off-roader in Australia, the tracks in Thailand won’t seem too challenging; they’re used by local Hill Tribes. But the scenery—think rice paddies, hill tribe villages, and lush jungle—sets them apart from anything you’ll find in Oz. Also, there’s something very exciting about the unknown…or is that just me?
How do the vehicles compare?
You’ll feel right at home behind the 4×4 wheel in Thailand because the vehicles are strikingly familiar. As you know, some of Australia’s favourite utes are made in Thailand, so expect to be driving something like a Toyota HiLux (which I drove) or an Isuzu D-Max. They’re modern, well-maintained, and capable of handling the terrain.
The big difference? The lack of mods. Don’t expect snorkels, massive bull bars, or flashy accessories. Without kangaroos and only shallow creek crossings to worry about, the vehicles are mostly accessorised for carrying gear. But don’t let that fool you—these little more than stock-standard setups are more than capable of tackling the tracks. Speaking of which…
What about the tracks?
Like Australia, 4×4 tracks in Thailand vary from gently bumpy to properly rutted and needing to hold on to the s**t stick so you don’t hit your head on the roof liner if you’re the passenger. If you’re off-roading in the north of Thailand like we were, you can also expect steepish mountain climbs with a tumble to your death should you be silly enough to veer off the wrong side of the track. It gave me Victorian highland (around Dargo) vibes but with completely different flora and fauna and more humidity.
The landscapes change quickly, so one moment you’re winding through a bamboo tunnel in the jungle, and the next, you’re driving alongside rice paddies. Village roads often have random concrete sections that test your precision, and you’ll occasionally find collapsed bridges or water crossings to keep things interesting.
What makes it special is not so much the technicality of the tracks, but the destination itself and the interesting stops along the way…such as bamboo rafting down a river at lunch. A 4×4 track in Australia might lead you to a remote lookout, a campsite, or a beautiful swimming hole, but in Thailand, you’re likely to end up at a jungle temple, a waterfall, or a remote village where time seems to stand still.
Here’s a quick peek (nothing too technical on our trip):
Is 4x4ing in Thailand better than in Australia
It’s not better or worse. It’s just a different experience.
How do you get involved?
If you’re keen to 4×4 in Thailand, you’ll need a bit of local knowledge to navigate the tracks and language barriers. That’s where tour companies like Explore 4×4 Adventures come in. That’s who I went with but their website seems to be currently down so I’ll link that back in later. Based in Chiang Mai, they’ve been running 4×4 tours since 2009, customising trips to suit your experience and interests. They also run dirtbike and buggy tours (which I’m pretty keen to do as soon as Master 12 masters the clutch – stay tuned).
Here’s how it works:
Driving in Thailand: what you need to know
Driving in Thailand is surprisingly straightforward for Aussies. The locals drive on the left, and road rage is practically non-existent. On Thailand’s 4×4 tracks, the pace is slow, and the vibe is relaxed.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
How much did it cost?
Our 4×4 tour in Thailand cost just over AUD 500 (BHT 39,000) per day and we booked for 3 days and two nights. Please bear in mind that this was for four people (two adults and two kids) and was all-inclusive. This means the price included vehicle hire, insurance, accommodation (boutique family-run hotels), all snacks, meals, soft drinks and water, and entry to any attractions or activities we did.
Why should you give it a go?
My answer to this question is…why not? A 4×4 trip in Thailand is more than just a drive, it’s an experience. From bamboo rafting and sticky-rice picnics to break up the tracks, to soaking under icy waterfalls and visiting ancient temples, it’s a blend of adventure and culture you won’t find anywhere else. The tracks are accessible, the vehicles are familiar, and the scenery is unforgettable.
So, if you’re looking to combine your love of off-roading with a taste of something different, Thailand might just be your next epic adventure.
