Mu Koh Lanta National Park is a place that reminds you how good travelling is for the soul.
So many people travel in a rush, ramming in as many excursions and tours as possible so as not to miss out on anything, but I find that if you’re constantly hopping between places, you can end up missing out on all of the hidden gems in-between.
One of my favourite ways to avoid this in Koh Lanta was by renting a scooter. There’s something wonderful about riding a scooter around an island. It gives you more freedom, enables you to travel at your own speed and there’s just something about having the wind blow through your hair as you whizz along the winding roads. Sure, your hair looks a little messed up by the time you arrive at your destination, but there is no feeling quite like it.
I’ve gone around so many destinations in Thailand by scooter, Koh Samet, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Koh Samui and Phuket to name a few. I honestly don’t think there’s a better way to explore the island (unless you’re on an ATV or in a convertible car, in which case same same but different). But of all of the scooter tours I have embarked upon, Koh Lanta is by far the most picturesque. (Especially Koh Lanta Noi!) But this post is all about Mu Koh Lanta National Park!
Koh Lanta’s National Park is located at the southwestern tip of Koh Lanta, past the steep hills, uneven terrain and occasionally unnerving motorbike paths.
It’s a place that’s just as gorgeously picturesque as the rest of Koh Lanta. The entrance fee is 100 thb and once you ride down the steep hill, park the bike up and toss the keys to the local valet…
It’s just a short walk to the coastline which is made up of two bays, divided by a steep hill with a lighthouse on top.
And at the top of the slightly-too-steep-and-dusty-for-flip-flops hill, the most gorgeous views await.
I was very fortunate on the day that I was visiting as there was only a handful of others there to appreciate the views with me. No crowds, no tour guides, no long tail boats, no hawkers. Just eight people were surrounded by serenity.
Visiting Koh Lanta’s National Park was a last-minute decision as it was on the other side of the island from where I was staying. Because of this, I didn’t think to pack a picnic, but it would make for the most beautiful location to do so as it’s utterly idyllic.
Nevertheless, I plonked myself down on a stretch of sand, kicked off my shoes and just sat, peacefully listening to the gentle roll of the waves. From the moment I sat down, it took all of three minutes before I was wriggling out of my shorts and running towards the lure of the blue waters—despite the fact that I didn’t have a towel.
But honestly? It didn’t matter. The water was perfect; clear, relaxing and warm (no, not from pee, don’t be gross) and there was no way I could miss out on being in it.
After a quick swim, I took a walk along the coastline to dry off and found a swing, so obviously child instinct took over. Unfortunately, immaturity soon led to hunger, and so it was time to make use of the outdoor shower, rinse off the sand and say goodbye to that little slice of paradise.
Upon my return to the scooter, I noticed that the valet left mini monkey prints all over the mirror, helmets, and scooter seat…
So if you’re heading to Koh Lanta National Park, take care not to leave any food or valuables in your bag or scooter… Because if you do, those cheeky monkeys will find it!
