Rock Climbing on Koh Tao (2025 Guide)

Koh Tao isn’t only about diving—its granite boulders and seaside crags make it a brilliant place to climb, from first-timers to seasoned lead climbers. Expect short approaches, ocean views, and friendly local operators who can kit you out or guide you to the best routes.

Top places to climb

  • Mek’s Mountain – classic sport and top-rope lines with quick access.
  • Jansom Bay – beautiful seaside crag (great for a post-climb snorkel).
  • Golden View / Tanote Bay – a mix of sport, bouldering and some trad on rough, sharp granite.

FYI: The island’s climbing is on granite with routes across a broad spread (roughly French 4–7c). Some sectors have sensitive access; always check locally before you go.

Learn to climb or hire a guide

Goodtime Adventures (Sairee)

  • “On The Rocks” Abseil + Climb (half-day, ~4 hrs) – ฿2,500. Great intro with abseiling and top-rope climbing.
  • Rock 1: Top Rope (1 day) – ฿3,600. Ground school + afternoon on real rock; ideal for beginners.
  • Guided Climbing (half-day) – from ฿2,000 for experienced climbers wanting a local guide and belayer.

See courses and book with Goodtime Adventures

The Bunker (Indoor Gym + Outdoor Trips)

  • Indoor bouldering daily 09:00–20:00; day and multi-pass options, shoe & chalk rental available.
  • Outdoor guided trips (half-day): Bouldering (~฿1,800), Lead (~฿2,100), Top-rope (~฿2,800).
  • Beginner courses like “Bouldering Basics” and “Top Rope Beginner”.

The Bunker – indoor hours, pricing & outdoor trips

Indoor bouldering (rain-proof option)

When it’s too hot or wet, train at The Bunker—Koh Tao’s only dedicated indoor climbing/bouldering gym—open 09:00–20:00 with rental shoes and chalk on site.

Guidebook & local community

  • Digital guidebook: Rakkup “Thailand – Koh Tao Rock Climbing” (buy or 2-month rental; 150–180+ routes, updated). Get the guide on Rakkup
  • Koh Tao Climbing Club: Community meet-ups (often Friday club days), access updates, and route development. Instagram · Facebook group

When to go

You can climb year-round. Mornings (start 07:00–10:00) or late afternoons are best to beat the heat; mid-day granite can be toasty. Dry season (roughly Dec–Apr) is popular; October–November can see heavier rain, so have the indoor gym as a backup.

What to bring

  • Water & sun: 1–2L per person, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses.
  • Footwear: trainers for approaches; climbing shoes if you have them. (Guided trips include technical gear.)
  • Protection: long sleeves or tape—granite can be sharp on skin.

Safety & access

  • Access sensitivity: Some crags sit on private land; check with local shops/clubs about current permissions and any fees.
  • Gear: If you’re not 100% on anchors, belaying or route finding, go with a guide—both Goodtime and The Bunker include equipment on intros and guided days.
  • Etiquette: Pack out all rubbish, keep noise down near homes/temples, and never bolt without local approval.

Quick FAQ

Is Koh Tao good for beginners? Yes—there are true beginner top-rope courses and half-day intros with abseiling. If you already climb indoors, guided top-rope days are perfect to sample the granite.

Can I just rent a rope and go? Experienced climbers can arrange guiding or rental with local shops, but always verify access and anchors at the sector you plan to visit.

How hot is it on the rock? It warms up quickly—plan early/late sessions or hit the indoor gym mid-day, then go swim or snorkel.

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