Things to do · Guide

Khao Yai Night Safari: How the Ranger-Led Spotlight Drive Works

After the day visitors leave, park rangers drive small groups along the road with spotlights to look for animals that are hard to see by day.

By Lomnik Nikee · Published 1 October 2026 · Last updated 1 October 2026 · Facts checked 1 October 2026

Key facts (checked 1 October 2026)

  • Departures: 19:00–20:00 and 20:00–21:00
  • Cost: 600 baht per vehicle (up to 8 people)
  • Booking: at the visitor centre service desk before 18:00 on the day
  • Length: about one hour, roughly 10 km, in a ranger-driven pickup

Source: Khao Yai National Park – Night Safari. Always reconfirm before you travel.

Two wild Asian elephants partly hidden in green foliage in Khao Yai National Park
Wild Asian elephants in Khao Yai National Park. Photo: Mammalwatcher via Wikimedia Commons, CC0

Why go

  • A chance to see sambar deer, civets, porcupines, owls and sometimes wild elephants
  • Rangers handle the driving and spotting, so it suits families
  • A memorable way to end a park day

How to get there

Make your way to the visitor centre inside the park during the day and book at the service desk before 18:00. The safari starts in the park, so plan where you will be between the gate closing and your departure, and how you will return to your accommodation afterwards.

Good to know

  • Personal flashlights and flash photography are not allowed; follow rangers’ instructions and keep quiet
  • The park states you may not drive your own car to look for animals at night
  • Bring a warm layer — it gets cool in the open vehicle
  • Sightings are never guaranteed

Where to stay nearby

Choose a base on the northern side to keep the late drive short — see our pool villa resort guide.

Related articles

This guide is based on official information, not a personal visit. Source: Khao Yai National Park official website.