Hidden in the majestic Phi Phi Islands, Viking Cave is a fascinating attraction that blends natural beauty with cultural history. Known for its ancient rock paintings and as a hub for bird’s nest harvesting, this cave is a must-visit for travellers seeking adventure in Viking Cave Thailand. Though visitors can’t enter the cave, its breathtaking limestone formations and crystal-clear waters make it a stunning sight from the outside. Whether you’re on a boat tour or snorkelling nearby, Viking Cave Phi Phi is a true hidden gem.
Quick Details
Location: Situated on the northwest tip of Phi Phi Leh Island.
Accessed By: 30-minute journey from Ton Sai Bay
Name: Named due to ancient paintings resembling Viking ships (no actual historical Viking connection)
Location
Photo: shankar s / Wikimedia Commons
Viking Cave is located on the northeastern side of Koh Phi Phi Leh, about 1.5 km from Maya Bay and 46.3 km from Phuket. It is accessible only by boat, making it a popular stop on island-hopping tours around the Phi Phi Islands. The cave’s striking limestone cliffs and turquoise waters create a picture-perfect setting for visitors exploring the stunning landscapes of Viking Cave Thailand.
How To Reach
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By Air: Fly into Phuket International Airport (HKT) or Krabi International Airport (KBV) and travel to the Phi Phi Islands.
By Ferry: Take a ferry from Phuket or Krabi to Phi Phi Don, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
By Speedboat: For a faster option, speedboats from Phuket or Krabi take 45–60 minutes to reach the Phi Phi Islands.
Things To Do Around Viking Cave Phi Phi
Here are a few things you can enjoy around Viking Cave Thailand.
1. Snorkeling And Diving At Maya Bay
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Beneath the turquoise waters near Viking Caves Phi Phi, a mesmerising underwater world awaits. Schools of vibrant fish weave through coral gardens, while gentle waves carry you past limestone formations teeming with marine life. Snorkelers can float above the reef, watching the dazzling colours unfold, while divers descend into deeper realms where hidden caves and curious sea creatures create an unforgettable adventure. Every moment here feels like a scene from a dream, urging you to explore more.
Location: Maya Bay, Phi Phi Islands
Timing: 8 AM – 1 PM
2. Sunset Cruise Around Phi Phi Islands
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As the sun dips below the horizon, a sunset cruise around the Phi Phi Islands turns the Andaman Sea into a canvas of gold and crimson. The gentle waves carry your boat past towering limestone cliffs, secluded beaches, and the famous Viking Caves Phi Phi, where ancient paintings whisper tales of the past. With a cool breeze in the air and the sky ablaze with colour, this journey is pure tropical magic.
Timing: 2:15 PM – 7:30 PM
Duration: 2 – 3 hours
3. Learning About The Swiftlet Nest Harvesting
Photo: Miles Goodhew / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Watch skilled harvesters carefully climb bamboo scaffolds inside the dramatic Viking Caves Phi Phi, where swiftlet nests—prized for their unique texture—are gathered from the limestone ceilings. This centuries-old practice, done with precision and respect for nature, transforms tiny bird nests into a delicacy. The dimly lit caves echo with the calls of swiftlets, creating a mesmerising atmosphere that blends adventure, culture, and an age-old tradition worth witnessing firsthand.
Location: Ao Nang, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81000, Thailand
Operating Hours: 8 AM – 5 PM
Places To Visit Near Viking Caves
Here are 3 unique places near Viking Caves Phi Phi.
1. Monkey Beach
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Monkey Beach in Phi Phi is a paradise for adventure seekers, where crystal-clear waters meet soft white sand and playful monkeys add a touch of wild charm. Snorkelling here is an unforgettable experience, with vibrant coral reefs teeming with colourful fish just beneath the surface. As you paddle through the gentle waves on a kayak, the stunning limestone cliffs of Viking Caves Phi Phi rise in the distance, making every moment feel like a scene from a postcard.
Distance From Viking Cave: 5.8 km
Location: Phi Phi Don Island, Krabi Province, Thailand
2. Pileh Lagoon
Photo: Puripant / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Paddle through the emerald waters of Pileh Lagoon, where towering limestone cliffs embrace a paradise untouched by time. The sunlight dances on the crystal-clear sea, revealing a mesmerising world beneath the surface. As you drift along, the peaceful silence is broken only by the gentle splash of oars and the distant calls of tropical birds. A swim here feels like floating in nature’s most stunning infinity pool—pure, serene, and unforgettable.
Distance From Viking Cave: 850 m
Location: Phi Phi Don Island, Krabi Province, Thailand
3. Bamboo Island
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Bamboo Island is a breathtaking tropical paradise where soft white sands meet the turquoise embrace of the Andaman Sea. A short boat ride from Phi Phi, this untouched gem is perfect for snorkelling among vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. With no crowds or bustling markets, the island offers a rare moment of pure serenity—just swaying palms, gentle waves, and the soothing whispers of the ocean calling you to unwind.
Distance From Viking Cave: 14.3 km
Location: Phi Phi Don Island, Krabi Province, Thailand
Where To Stay
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Phi Phi Island offers a mix of budget, mid-range, and luxury stays near Viking Cave, each promising a unique island experience. Budget travellers can unwind at Blanco Beach Bar & Hostel or the nature-inspired Viking Nature Resort. For a balance of comfort and affordability, Phi Phi Bayview Resort and PP Princess Resort provide stunning sea views. Luxury seekers can indulge at Zeavola Resort or SAii Phi Phi Island Village, while Phi Phi The Beach Resort offers a secluded, panoramic retreat. Every stay immerses you in the island’s tropical beauty.
Where To Eat
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Phi Phi Island near Viking Cave is a dream for food lovers, offering everything from fresh seafood to global flavours. The Beach Bar & Restaurant serves grilled seafood with ocean views, while P.P. Wang Ta Fu offers top-notch sushi. Efe Mediterranean Cuisine delights with kebabs, and ACQUA Restaurant serves Italian pizzas. Only Noodles is perfect for Pad Thai, while Mama Resto specializes in Indonesian satay. Unni’s Restaurant serves juicy burgers, and Papaya Restaurant offers flavourful Thai curries. A feast awaits!
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Michael_Spencer / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Viking Cave is between November and April, when the seas are calmer, making boat trips more enjoyable. Towering limestone cliffs surround this mysterious cave on Koh Phi Phi Leh, home to ancient rock paintings and the harvesting of swiftlet nests for bird’s nest soup. The blend of rugged cliffs, emerald waters, and fascinating history creates a scene straight out of a storybook. Whether admiring from a boat or snorkelling nearby, Viking Cave is an unforgettable stop.
Other Things To Consider
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Average Cost Of The Trip
A trip to Viking Cave, Thailand, costs $50–$150 per person, depending on the tour type. Group boat tours start at $50–$80, while private speedboats cost $100–$150. If visiting as part of a Phi Phi Islands tour, expect a $5–$15 national park fee. Ferries from Phuket or Krabi cost $20–$40 round trip. Meals range from $5–$15, and snorkeling gear rental is about $10. A budget-friendly day trip can be done for $80–$120, including transport, food, and activities.
Tips For Travellers
- Book a Tour in Advance: Many tours fill up quickly, especially in peak season.
- Bring a Waterproof Bag: Protect your belongings during the boat ride.
- Wear Sunscreen: The sun can be intense, so apply sunscreen regularly.
- Carry Cash: Some islands charge entry fees that require cash payment.
- Respect Nature: Avoid touching coral reefs and wildlife.
Viking Cave Thailand is a fascinating spot that blends natural beauty with cultural history, making it a must-see on your Phi Phi Islands trip. Whether you’re soaking in the stunning limestone cliffs, marvelling at the ancient cave paintings, or snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters nearby, this destination promises an unforgettable experience. It’s the perfect place to add a touch of adventure to your Thailand getaway. So, why wait? Plan your visit and witness this hidden wonder for yourself. Book your trip with TripXL now!
Cover Photo: Deror Avi / Wikimedia Commons