Consisting of around 40 small islands, 27 kilometres from Koh Samui, the Ang Thong Archipelago is a scene of incomprehensible beauty. Perhaps Mother Nature sprinkled her magic in the sea to create this isolated paradise away from the destructive hands of mankind. The group of irregular limestone karsts jut out of the emerald sea in a haphazard arrangement. A verdant carpet softens the jagged contours of the mountains and glowing fringes of white sand define the shoreline.
All of the islands are uninhabited, apart from one, Lok Paluay, which is home to a band of sea-gypsies, or ‘Chaolay’ as they are locally known as. These sea-faring nomads can be found along many isolated stretches of coastline in the south of Thailand, and have their own distinct culture based around animistic beliefs. They make their living from fishing, often using very primitive equipment with great skill. Despite cultural differences including their own language, the sea gypsies have lived in harmony with all other Thai religions for many centuries.
The island’s topography provides the ultimate tropical adventure playground. Caves, lagoons and hidden natural treasures spark images of classic desert island movies. Opportunities for exploration and discovery are endless. An arduous climb on Koh Mae Ko (Mother Island) is well rewarded with views of an emerald saltwater lake fully enclosed by a ring of towering limestone cliffs and connected to the sea by an underground tunnel.
Ang Thong translates as ‘golden bowl’, and refers to this isolated lake which resembles a brilliant gleaming bowl, protected by the encircling mountains. Many of the islands are named after their distinguishing features, including ‘Sleeping Cow Island’ and ‘Three Pillar Island’. Some islands have passageways leading to lofty peaks, where panoramic views across the Ang Thong Archipelago allow visitors the chance to appreciate this spectacular natural creation in its entirety.
Ang Thong Archipelago is a National Park which means the island’s wildlife is protected and allowed to flourish in an untouched environment. The wooded areas of the park can be classified as dry evergreen forest, beach forest and limestone forest. Dry evergreen forests dominate the larger islands, beach forests provide shade on the beach, and the limestone forests sprout from the soil covered areas of the mountains.
Only small animals inhabit the islands, and the 16 species of mammals include otters, langurs, crab-eating monkeys, hogs and silver haired bats. Dolphins and whales have also been spotted off shore. More than 54 species of bird, 14 species of reptile and five species of amphibians also reside in the National Park. The surrounding water is teeming with tropical fish, crabs, oysters and a rainbow of coral carpets the sea floor.
The sheer scale of the archipelago means it is possible to find secluded beaches away from the crowds, where you can concoct your own desert island fantasy. The islands are a great spot for water based activities such as kayaking and snorkelling. Kayakers can paddle through mysterious caves and examine the fascinating stalactite dripstones at close range. Snorkelling provides a window to view the thriving underwater world of vibrant colour and curious form.
Koh Sam Sao boasts a massive coral reef, and is a popular with snorkellers. This hilly island is also a great place to admire a panoramic view of the National Park. The most rewarding time to snorkel in the Ang Thong Archipelago is from late March until October, this is when visibility is at its best. However the islands can be visited all year round, with only the monsoon season occasionally disrupting the sunshine from September until November.
Accommodation is available at the National Park Headquarters in Koh Wua Talap, in the form of basic bungalows, however most visitors arrive on day trips. Travelling to the archipelago by speedboat means you can explore the islands in a smaller group and avoid the masses. The large tour boats carry up to 50 people, and involve transferring to a longtail boat in order to reach your island of choice
Photographers will get lost in the scenery. From the karst-silhouetted seascapes to the mountainous interiors and the abundant wildlife, this stunning setting certainly isn’t camera shy. The most popular activity on the islands is simply enjoying their incredible beauty and tranquillity. The islands’ sandy shores provide a relaxing haven for soaking up the sun’s glorious rays and contemplating this tropical paradise.
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