Mu Koh Ang Thong Marine National Park

Of all the islands in the Samui area, it is those in Mu Koh Ang Thong Marine National Park that score highest for sheer beauty and excursion potential. Located 31 km. west of Samui, the park covers more than a hundred sq. km. and comprises a group of some 40 lovely steep-sided limestone islands fringed with forest. Their shores are dotted with sandy coves and limestone caves, while the lush interiors are home to a wealth of flora and fauna.

The name translates as "golden basin", and this is indeed a rich ground for exploration. Mainly because it was a preserve of the Royal Thai Navy and so closed to the public until 1980, when it was declared a marine national park, Ang Thong has managed to preserve its unspoilt character to an exceptional degree.

Sea canoeing offers perhaps the best way of appreciating the islands' rugged coastlines, endlessly intriguing with hidden little bays, beaches and caves. Alternatively, excellent coral and plenty of fish, as well as the occasional dolphin, make the waters around Ang Thong ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving.

The terrestrial attractions are no less awesome. On the largest island, Koh Wua Talap, location of the park's headquarters and the only tourist facilities in the area, there is a trail up to a 400-meter-high vantage point, the stiff climb being rewarded by stunning views out over the archipelago, as well as Bua Bok Cave, the name meaning "waving lotus", a reference to the shape of the stalagmite and stalactite formations. Other walks lead around the national park village to a small fishing settlement. Elsewhere, a magnificent emerald-green lake, 250 meters across and surrounded by cliffs, is the highlight on Mae Koh island.

In addition to the natural wonder of the scenery, wildlife is comparativelyabundant on Ang Thong and includes leopard cats, wild pig, long-tailed macaques, squirrels, pythons, monitor lizards, and dusky langur. Among the 40 or so bird species that have been confirmed in the islands are the little heron, black baza, brahminy kite, Eurasian woodcock, and the white-rumped shama, while nesting in the caves on the islands are the variety of swifts whose homes are the basic ingredient of the Chinese delicacy, bird's nest soup.

Admission Fee : Adult 200 Baht  Child 100 Baht 

Getting There

A ferry departs from Koh Samui’s Na Thon pier daily at 8.30 a.m. and arrives at Mu Koh Ang Thong at 10.30 a.m. The fare is 550 baht.  On return, the ferry departs from the Ang Thong National Park at 3 p.m.  Call +66 7742 2262-3 for details.  A one-day tour package to Mu Koh Ang Thong is also organised by travel agents on Koh Samui.

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