Is Krabi Safe in January 2026?

Rental shops take a deposit or hold your passport, then claim pre-existing scratches are new damage when you return the bike and refuse to refund without payment.

How to avoid: Never hand over your passport as a deposit — it is illegal. Photograph every angle of the bike before riding and send copies to yourself immediately.

Budget four-island tour operators advertise snorkeling and lunch included, then charge separately for equipment, national park fees, and food at each stop.

How to avoid: Book only through reputable licensed operators. Get a written list of exactly what is and isn't included before paying.

Friendly strangers near Tiger Cave Temple or Railay Beach claim the attraction is closed today for a religious holiday and offer a cheaper alternative that benefits a shop partner.

How to avoid: Ignore unsolicited advice about closed attractions. Check Google Maps or your hotel for current opening hours.

Tuk-tuk drivers near Ao Nang offer very cheap rides, then detour to gem or tailor shops where they earn a commission — sometimes 2–3 shops before reaching your actual destination.

How to avoid: Agree on a direct route with no stops. If the driver diverts, get out and take a Grab instead.

Longtail boat fares from Ao Nang to Railay Beach and between Krabi's islands operate on a collective fare system, but operators routinely demand private charter prices from small groups or late-arriving tourists. The standard collective fare is 100 THB per person but tourists are frequently charged 400–800 THB for the same journey when boats aren't full. Drivers claim the price is fixed or that the collective service has stopped for the day.

How to avoid: The collective longtail from Ao Nang to Railay should be 100 THB per person — wait for the boat to fill with other passengers rather than paying private charter rates. Check posted fare signs at the Ao Nang pier. Arrive before noon when boats run most frequently.