The Destination: Had Hong (Thailand’s Sahara)
- Pakorn Sethsawat
- Mar 18
- 2 min read
While Thailand is famous for its lush jungles and tropical islands, few travelers know about its "hidden Sahara." If you’re looking for a landscape that feels like it was teleported from the Middle East into the heart of Southeast Asia, you need to steer your RV toward Had Hong in Ubon Ratchathani.
Located along the mighty Mekong River, this "Thai Desert" is a seasonal wonder—vast, golden sand dunes that only emerge when the river recedes. For a motorhome traveler, it’s the ultimate "off-the-beaten-path" destination for 2026.
Location: Khong Chiam/Pho Sai District, Ubon Ratchathani (Eastern Thailand).
The Vibe: High-peak sand dunes, ripples carved by the wind, and a dramatic sunset backdrop against the Mekong River.
When to go: January to May (The Dry Season). During the rainy season, this entire "desert" is underwater!
Stage 1: The Journey to the East
Distance from BKK: ~700 km.
The Drive: This is a classic Isan road trip. You’ll pass through the rolling plateaus of Nakhon Ratchasima (Khao Yai area) and Buriram.
The RV Advantage: The Long Haul Hero. 700 km is a long stretch for a car, but in an RV, it’s a scenic tour. With your onboard kitchen and restroom, you don't have to worry about finding clean rest stops. Stop whenever you see a local market to stock up on Isan specialties like Gai Yang (grilled chicken) to keep in your fridge.
Stage 2: Sam Phan Bok & Had Hong
Had Hong is usually accessed by a short boat ride from Sam Phan Bok, known as the "Grand Canyon of Thailand."
Top Attraction: The 3,000 Holes. Explore the rock reef of Sam Phan Bok, where water has carved thousands of basins into the stone (look for the one shaped like Mickey Mouse!). From there, hire a long-tail boat to drop you at Had Hong for a sunset walk on the dunes.
RV Advantage: Golden Hour Timing. Most tourists have to rush back to Ubon city (2 hours away) before dark. Because you have a "house on wheels," you can stay until the very last bit of light hits the dunes, capturing the perfect "desert" aesthetic for your feed, then simply walk back to your parked RV.
Stage 3: The Glow-in-the-Dark Finale
Top Attraction: Wat Sirindhorn Wararam (Phu Prao). On your way back from the desert, stop at this "Luminous Temple." The tree of life carved on the back of the chapel glows brilliantly after sunset.
Where to Stay: Pha Taem National Park. This is one of the best RV spots in the East.
RV Parking/Charging: ~300 THB/night.
The Vibe: Prehistoric cave paintings and a "First Light" viewpoint (you’ll be the first person in Thailand to see the sunrise here).
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