If you’re heading to Phuket soon, you’re probably excited about planning all the exciting activities you can enjoy when you’re here. From exploring beautiful beaches overlooking the sparkling Andaman Sea to our own ethical elephant activities in Phuket, our island home is a true paradise in southwest Thailand.
While many visitors explore Phuket’s wonders by car or motorbike, there’s a growing number who prefer a more intimate and eco-friendly way to experience the island — by bicycle or electric scooter. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just want to try something new, Phuket offers unique opportunities to explore at a slower pace, allowing you to connect with the island’s natural beauty and vibrant culture.
At Phuket Elephant Nature Reserve, we care deeply about ethical tourism, and we’re excited to share our insights on how to explore Phuket safely and responsibly on two wheels. Scroll down to start our guide to exploring Phuket by bicycle or e-scooter, and please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.
Is Phuket Safe for Cyclists?
Phuket is safe for cyclists, but with a caveat: you need to be selective about where you ride. The island’s main roads can be hazardous due to the high volume of traffic and the sometimes aggressive driving habits of local motorists. Therefore, we strongly recommend avoiding these routes whenever possible.
The good news is that the most rewarding cycling experiences in Phuket are found off the beaten path. The island is crisscrossed with paved backroads, rural routes, and farm trails that offer far safer and more enjoyable rides. These routes take you through lush greenery, charming local villages, and alongside the stunning coastline, providing a serene contrast to the bustling tourist hubs.
For those new to cycling in Phuket or who simply want to make the most of their experience, joining an organised cycling tour led by a knowledgeable guide is the safest and most enriching option. These tours not only ensure your safety but also take you on carefully planned routes that showcase the best of what Phuket has to offer, from hidden beaches to scenic viewpoints and cultural landmarks. We cover bike tours and rentals in Phuket later in this guide.
Looking for other ways to make your trip more sustainable? Check out our blog Responsible Travel in Phuket: Supporting Local Communities and Conservation Efforts when you have finished here.
What is Phuket’s Cycling Infrastructure Like?
If you’re expecting dedicated cycling lanes and extensive bike paths, you might be disappointed — Phuket’s cycling infrastructure is relatively non-existent. This is one of the main reasons why we stress the importance of staying off the main roads.
Despite the lack of formal infrastructure, cycling can still be an immensely rewarding way to explore the island if you stick to the quieter areas. These more secluded routes are generally in good condition for cycling, and their lack of traffic makes them a peaceful alternative to the hectic main thoroughfares. Plus, cycling through these areas offers an immersive, more meaningful experience where you can appreciate and connect with our island’s natural beauty and local culture.
If you choose to cycle in Phuket, it’s essential to remain vigilant, follow traffic laws, and take extra precautions to ensure your safety. Always wear a helmet, stay visible, and be alert to the movements of other road users.
The local tips and insights keep coming in our blog What Should I Know When Planning a Trip to Phuket? It’s filled with even more essential information you need to plan the kind of trip you’ve always dreamed of.
When is the Best Time to Cycle in Phuket?
Phuket’s tropical climate means that you can cycle here almost year-round, but certain months offer more favourable conditions than others.
Winter (November to March)
This is the peak tourist season in Phuket, and for good reason. The weather during these months is typically dry and cool, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C, making it the perfect time to cycle. The cooler temperatures and low humidity make long rides more comfortable, and the dry weather ensures that trails and paths are in good condition. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so expect more traffic on the roads, particularly near tourist attractions.
Summer (April to June)
As the temperature rises and humidity increases, cycling can become more challenging, but it’s still possible with proper preparation. Early morning or late afternoon rides are recommended to avoid the heat of the day. Be sure to stay hydrated and take frequent breaks.
Monsoon Season (July to October)
Phuket’s monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, which can make cycling less predictable and more challenging. However, if you’re an experienced cyclist who doesn’t mind getting wet, you can still enjoy cycling during this period. Just be cautious of slippery roads and potential flooding. The upside? The island is lush and green, and there are fewer tourists, so you’ll have the roads more to yourself.
We cover our island’s weather and many other useful topics in our Visitor’s Guide to Phuket.
Bike Rental and Tours in Phuket
Phuket is home to several reputable bike rental and tour companies that cater to all levels of cyclists. Here are just two near the Phuket Elephant Nature Reserve and Bang Tao Beach:
Dot Bro
Soi Bang Thao 2, Choeng Thale, Thalang District, Phuket 83110
Located opposite Bang Tao Night Market and a short ride from Bang Tao Beach, Dot Bro offers a range of bicycles for rent, including mountain bikes and road bikes from premium names like Canyon and Giant. They also provide e-bikes for those who prefer a bit of extra assistance. Dot Bro is known for its well-maintained bikes and friendly service, making it a great choice for anyone looking to explore on two wheels.
Siam Bike Tours
21/9 Lagoon Rd, Choeng Thale, Thalang District, Phuket 83110
Siam Bike Tours specialises in guided cycling tours around Phuket and beyond. Their tours are designed to suit all levels of cyclists, from beginners to seasoned riders, and they offer everything from half-day trips to multi-day excursions. Their knowledgeable guides will lead you on routes that showcase the best of Phuket’s scenery, culture, and history, ensuring a memorable experience.
Bike Works Phuket
X7MX+VFX, Soi Bang Thao 4/1, Choeng Thale, Thalang District, Phuket 83110, Thailand
Bike Works Phuket is another outstanding option for bike rental in the Bang Tao Beach area. The owner is known for his friendliness and remarkable bicycle knowledge, while the company has a reputation for fantastic service. This includes a delivery service for rentals and after MTB and road bike repairs. Bike Works has an impressive stock of bicycles to suit riders of all abilities, a loyal local customer base, and they even serve delicious coffee in their shop!
E-Scooter Rental in Phuket
E-scooters have gained popularity in many cities around the world, but their adoption in Phuket is still in its infancy. In fact, renting an e-scooter in Phuket can be tricky, and we generally advise caution.
E-scooters aren’t yet widely available in Phuket, and their use on public roads is, according to law, forbidden. However, some app-based companies have made e-scooters available in parts of Phuket, and riders certainly make use of them. The police have been known to issue fines to riders, but this is far from a uniform approach.
Furthermore, there are numerous e-scooter safety concerns. The island’s roads are not particularly well-suited to them and accidents involving e-scooters have been reported.
If you’re determined to try an e-scooter, it’s essential to do your research and choose a reputable rental company. However, for most visitors, we recommend sticking to bicycles, traditional scooters, or motorbikes, all of which are more widely available and better suited to Phuket’s roads.
Read our guide How Do You Get Around in Phuket? to find out more about transport options on our island.
Tips for Cyclists in Phuket
Cycling in Phuket can be a fantastic experience if you follow some simple safety tips. Here’s what you need to know before you hit the road:
- Stay hydrated: The tropical climate can be draining, so carry plenty of water and take regular breaks at convenience stores along the way.
- Avoid cycling at rush hour: Traffic can be particularly heavy during the morning and evening rush hours, so plan your rides for quieter times of the day.
- Always wear a helmet: Protect yourself by wearing a helmet that fits your head properly, even on short rides.
- Hire the right size bike for you: Make sure your rental bike is the right size for you to avoid discomfort or injury.
- Test ride your bike before setting off: Ensure that the brakes, gears, and tyres are in good working order before you start your journey.
- Plan a route in advance: Use maps or GPS to plan your route, and stick to quieter roads whenever possible.
- Follow traffic laws: Obey all road signs and signals, and ride with the flow of traffic.
- Stay visible: Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially if you’re cycling in low-light conditions.
- Be alert and defensive: Keep an eye out for other road users and be prepared to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions.
Book Your Ethical Elephant Activities in Phuket with PENR!
We hope you have found this guide to exploring Phuket by bicycle or electric scooter useful. Don’t forget to browse our full range of Phuket elephant activities as part of your trip-planning process. Elephant experiences are a must for visitors in Thailand, but it’s important to support sanctuaries that put their rescued animals first. This ensures you can make incredible memories with a clear conscience.
Do you have any questions for the team at Phuket Elephant Nature Reserve? Please get in touch for the answers you need!
