Koh Lanta in the Andaman Sea, south of Krabi, is an archipelago which includes a little more than 50 islands, most of them uninhabited. One of these houses the famous “Gypsies” fishermen. Fifteen of them are classified as nature reserves by the Maritime National Park of Koh Lanta. The landscape consists of mountains covered with lush forests, and sea, mangroves and beaches with coral reefs: Nature offers itself with calmly and generosity. The 30 km long Kho Lanta Yai (“Big Lanta Island”) is the busiest island. On the eastern side, Ban Ko Lanta (“Old Town Lanta”) was the original port and the commercial centre of the island, which provided a refuge for Arab and Chinese trading vessels sailing between Phuket, Penang and Singapore. Some of its charming and dainty wooden houses on stilts and some storefronts are over 100 years old.

The vast beach along the west coast of Koh Lanta Yai is a true gem. Of course, other, smaller ones dot the coast. But if you have a sporty soul, do not limit yourself to beach activities. Think of the Khao Maikaeo cave. Accessible by a guided hike through the jungle, caves and tunnels this complex was created by the monsoon rains pounding over millions of years the cracks and crevices of limestone rocks. There are large rooms like cathedrals, riddled with stalactites and stalagmites, and tiny passages you must sneak through by using hands and knees. There is even an underground lake where you can take a cold bath. A local family armed with torches can be your guide. Nearby, the Tiger Cave (Tham Seua) also has interesting tunnels to explore; you can access it by an elephant trek from Hat Nui. You can also make treks on these magnificent animals from different places. If you are hungry for cultural information, stop by at the Chao Leh (“Sea Gypsies”) museum of Ban Ko Lanta, where you will see a set of tools and traditional utensils and exhibitions detailing their myths, their music and traditional ceremonies.

DISCOVER THE ARCHIPELAGO OF KOH LANTA

One of the pleasurable ways to enjoy the island is to escape! … To explore the delightful surrounding small islands and enjoy the sea. For example you can visit the mangroves by kayak or canoe and discover the wonderful flora and fauna of the region through the labyrinths of trees and small channels. You can also embark on a journey allowing you to snorkel and enjoy the underwater fauna. But do not neglect the discovery of the minor islands. For example Koh Rok, which was used by the French TV channel TF1 for filming the “Koh Lanta” program. Its size would encourage you to spend an entire day exploring the beautiful marine life, and by walks and treks. Many lizards inhabit the place and are an attraction. Do not miss, Koh Mook and the wonderful Morakot Cave (“Emerald Cave”). Your swim across the entrance to the cave is rewarded by the discovery of a large hall whose roof collapsed and where an emerald sea and white sand make a splendid setting. Koh Talabeng, the island with high limestone cliffs, has some spectacular caves that you can visit by sea kayak. Finally do not forget the Ngai and Kradan Islands, little lost paradises.