Epic 5-Day Koh Lanta Itinerary: Your Ultimate Adventure Guide (2024)

Ko Lanta Yai, one of Thailand’s largest islands, offers an abundance of activities for a fantastic 5-day stay. 

I spent a week on Koh Lanta and found myself wanting to return to experience more of what the island has to offer.

Choose from jungle hikes, mangroves, caves and wild beaches. Explore Old Town, small temples and local villages. You can even visit an animal shelter and ethical elephant sanctuary.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed with all the available information and are struggling to decide on an itinerary, look no further. 

Read on to get inspired and discover how you can spend 5 epic days in Koh Lanta, Thailand!

Day 1 – Mangrove Forest and Animal Shelter

Morning – Kayaking in the Mangrove Forest

Start your first day in Koh Lanta with an early rise and head to the Mangrove Forest. 

Arriving early ensures you can enjoy the serene beauty of Koh Lanta’s wild nature before the heat sets in. Kayaking through the mangroves offers a unique perspective of its diverse ecosystem.

If kayaking isn’t your thing, you can rent a private boat, or explore the mangroves via the 1-kilometer walkway. 

The entrance fee to the Nature Forest is just 40 baht, while a private boat rental costs around 1000 baht, and renting a kayak is about 500 baht.

For a more guided experience, consider booking an organized private tour, which typically includes lunch and a guide to help you navigate in the forest. 

Keep an eye out for monkeys and don’t bring food as they might snatch it away!

Afternoon – Koh Lanta Animal Welfare

After our morning adventure, we will head back to the west coast for a heartwarming visit to the Koh Lanta Animal Welfare. 

This shelter offers a tour starting at 10:00 AM or 1:30 PM, giving you time to enjoy lunch at one of the nearby restaurants along the main road or closer to the beach.

Koh Lanta Animal Welfare is dedicated to helping homeless, injured, and abused animals, not only on Koh Lanta, but also on the surrounding islands in the Andaman Sea. 

Unfortunately, the demand for their services is significant, and both workers and volunteers are constantly busy.

By joining the tour, you support the shelter’s mission and get the chance to play with the resident cats. 

If you’re interested, you can even adopt an animal and bring it home, with the shelter assisting in all the formalities. Plan to spend around two hours here.

Evening – Explore the West Coast Beaches

After a day of exciting activities, wind down by exploring the beautiful beaches on the Koh Lanta’s west coast. The closest beach is just a 10-minute walk from the shelter. 

Depending on your energy levels, you can either take a stroll visiting several nearby beaches or simply relax at a beach bar and enjoy the sunset.

This is also an ideal time for a swim, as the afternoon heat becomes more bearable. 

Whether you choose to explore or unwind, the west coast beaches provide the perfect end to your first day in Koh Lanta.

Day 2 – Mai Kaeo Cave and Walking with Giants

Morning – Mai Kaeo Cave Hiking

We will start day 2 with another active adventure, this time hiking in the jungle and exploring Mai Kaeo Cave. 

Upon arrival, you will need to get a guide at the entrance. While the trek is not particularly difficult and you could technically hike on your own, hiring a guide is important for respecting the local community and ensuring a safe journey.

Although the hike is relatively short, it involves some climbing and spending time in the dark cave. Keep your eyes peeled for bats and enjoy this unique experience!

Afternoon – Walking with Giants

Our next stop is equally intense. We’ll join a half-day tour starting at 2 PM at the ethical elephant sanctuary, Following Giants.

This sanctuary’s mission is to show visitors elephants in their natural environment. 

Unlike traditional elephant tourism, there is no touching or direct interaction with the animals. Instead, you’ll learn about the wildlife in the national park and trek to a beautiful waterfall.

The tour lasts about four hours, concluding around 6 PM. It’s a remarkable opportunity to witness these majestic creatures respectfully and responsibly.

Evening – Southernmost Point and Sunset by Khlong Chak Beach

Since we’ll be in the southern part of the island, let’s drive to the southernmost point of Koh Lanta to capture stunning sunset pictures. The views here are breathtaking and perfect for memorable photos.

After enjoying the sunset, head to Khlong Chak Beach to find a seafront restaurant for dinner. Try delicious, local meal while enjoying the serene sunset and relaxed beach atmosphere.

Day 3 – Koh Por, Lanta Old Town and Pirate Beach

Morning – Trip to Koh Por and Koh Bubu

On the third day, we’ll venture to the remote islands of Koh Por and Koh Bubu, part of the Lanta Archipelago. Since these destinations aren’t well-known, it’s best to book this trip in advance. Ask your hotel for help organizing it, or check with a local tour agency (even if the trip isn’t advertised they might be able to organize it)

Your boat will likely depart from an area near Koh Lanta Old Town, though it might not be exactly at the Ban Si Raya Pier. 

A long tailed boat will take you to the secluded Koh Bubu, an uninhabited island with gorgeous waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Enjoy the calm, sandy beaches and the serene environment.

The next destination is Koh Por, a larger and inhabited island. Here, you can visit a village and even stay overnight at a local homestay to observe the community life. 

Although there aren’t many attractions on Koh Por, a highlight is going deep-sea fishing with the locals. Learn their techniques and relax on the boat as you experience the traditional lifestyle.

Afternoon – Koh Lanta Old Town

After exploring Koh Por and Koh Bubu, we’ll head back to Koh Lanta to discover the unique Old Town. 

Ask your boat driver to drop you off at the Ban Si Raya Pier. This quiet fisherman’s pier is not frequented by regular boats or ferries, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful walk with beautiful views of the sea and old town buildings.

As you exit the pier, you’ll notice a huge blue lobster statue and, a bit further on, a roundabout with the Kromluang Chumphon Khetudomsak Shrine at its center.

Take a left to walk along the shore where you can see a capsized ship and a distant lighthouse. 

Afterward, head back to enter Lanta Old Town Walking Street, a charming area full of old wooden buildings, small temples, and shrines. There are numerous local stores and many delightful sea-view restaurants.

Nearby, you’ll also find the Community Museum, where you can learn about the history of ethnic groups inhabiting Thailand’s west coast, such as the semi-nomadic Urak Lawoi tribe.

Evening – Pirate Bay

Before heading back, we’ll visit one more place on the east side of Koh Lanta: Pirate Bay. 

A 15-minute drive south will bring you to this remote bay with a relaxed beach bar and stunning views. The beach is a mix of sand and stones, offering a picturesque setting for a small hike along the shoreline. 

Unwind with a drink as you take in the serene atmosphere and beautiful scenery, making for a perfect end to your day.

Day 4 –  Koh Phee and Talabeng, Laem Kho Kwang Beach, Siri Lanta Bridge

Morning – Koh Phee and Talabeng

On the fourth day, we’ll continue our adventure by exploring the neighboring islands of Koh Phee and Talabeng. 

This time, we’ll join an organized half-day tour, as the logistics for visiting these islands can be tricky. The best option is to book a tour package that includes hotel pickup and a dedicated tour guide.

Our journey begins with a long-tail boat ride through the mangrove forest, combining kayaking, climbing, cave exploration, and swimming.

The tour offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of these islands. Keep an eye out for the unique rock formations and abundant wildlife that make this area so special.

Afternoon – Laem Kho Kwang Beach and Siri Lanta Bridge 

After our adventurous morning, we’ll head to the peaceful northern part of the island. 

Siri Lanta Bridge connects Lanta Yai with Lanta Noi. Next to the lighthouse we can find a hidden spot, not very touristy, but a popular place for locals to fish. 

It’s a great destination for observing passing boats, the local way of life and perhaps even fishing.

Nearby is Laem Koh Kwang Beach, a truly tranquil place with a stunning view of mountains and cliffs covered in lush jungle. This spacious beach is perfect for a relaxing afternoon, offering a serene environment away from the more crowded tourist spots.

As the day comes to an end, Laem Koh Kwang Beach is also an ideal location to enjoy a spectacular sunset.

Day 5 – Emerald Cave and 4 Islands Snorkeling Tour

On our last day, we’ll embark on a day trip to the beautiful Trang islands. While I highly recommend spending a few days on Koh Mook, a one-day organized tour is the best option if you’re on a tight schedule.

This excursion will take the entire day (8-9 hours) due to the distance to our final destination, so prepare for a packed itinerary.

First, we’ll visit the famous Emerald Cave on Koh Mook. Here, we will swim through the dark cave to discover a hidden lagoon surrounded by limestone cliffs. 

The towering walls, covered in lush greenery, give the water a stunning emerald color. Due to its popularity, Emerald Cave can be crowded, so it’s essential to follow your guide’s instructions and stay safe.

After exploring the cave, we’ll head to some of the best snorkeling spots in the area. The coral reefs in Thailand are incredibly diverse, teeming with vibrant underwater life.

Our trip will also include time to relax on a pristine beach, where we’ll enjoy our lunch. Depending on the itinerary, we might stop at Koh Ngai, Koh Kradan, or another picturesque island. These islands are known for their clear waters and stunning natural beauty.

Alternative Activities

If you’re wondering if there are more activities on Koh Lanta, consider extending your stay and choosing from a variety of exciting options:

• Road Trip: Rent a scooter or car and explore the island at your own pace. Discover hidden beaches, scenic viewpoints, and charming villages.
• Day Trip to Phuket and Koh Phi Phi (Maya Bay): Visit the iconic Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi, famous for its stunning turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs, or explore the vibrant city life and beautiful beaches of Phuket.
• Day Trip to Ao Nang: Head to Ao Nang for its beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere. It’s also a gateway to other stunning islands.
• Muay Thai Lesson: Learn the art of Thai boxing with a local Muay Thai school. It’s a great way to get fit and immerse yourself in the local culture.
• Cooking Classes: Take a Thai cooking class and learn to prepare traditional dishes.
• Trekking Along the West Coast: Enjoy the natural beauty of Koh Lanta with a trek along the west coast.

Don’t forget to relax on one of Thailand’s lovely beaches. You can watch mesmerizing fire shows, get a rejuvenating massage or simply relax at a beachside bar.

Staying longer on Koh Lanta and adding leisurely beach days in between more active days can be a perfect way to balance our packed itinerary, allowing you to fully savor the island’s charm and beauty. 

Where is Koh Lanta Located and How to Get There?

Koh Lanta is conveniently situated in the north of the Malacca Strait, close to popular destinations such as Koh Phi Phi, Krabi, and Phuket. This prime location makes it an accessible and attractive destination for travelers.

Saladan Pier, the main pier on Koh Lanta, is a bustling hub with excellent ferry and speedboat connections to various tourist destinations both north and south along Thailand’s west coast.

Even traveling from Bangkok is hassle-free. You can fly to Krabi Airport and take a direct minivan to Koh Lanta. The minivan service includes a car ferry crossing, so there’s no need for a changeover. 

Alternatively, you can fly to Phuket and take a ferry or speedboat from Rassada Pier, though this requires additional travel to the pier.

Most transportation options, whether ferry, speedboat, or minivan, include a hotel drop-off service, ensuring that your final destination on Koh Lanta will be reached easily.

When to Visit Koh Lanta

All the information I provide is based on my experience visiting Koh Lanta during the dry season, which runs from October to May. This is the best time to visit, as the weather is generally favorable, and most businesses and attractions are open.

The high season offers a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of activities, making it the ideal time to experience all that Koh Lanta has to offer.

During the low season, although you might find cheaper accommodations, it can be challenging to book ferries or organized trips, and lively bars and restaurants may be scarce.

Essential Thing to Know About Koh Lanta

If you are visiting Koh Lanta (or Southern Thailand in general) for the first time, here are a few essential things you should know to efficiently plan your trip.

Transportation

Koh Lanta is not walkable and you will need some kind of transportation to see most of the popular spots. The island is 13 mile long and most people, both tourists and locals, use moped to get around. 

If you prefer, you can also find car rentals on Koh Lanta. Remember to get an international driver’s licenses as you might need to show it before renting a vehicle. 

If you don’t want to drive yourself you can always hire a local taxi (there are no Grab/Uber services) or a tuk-tuk. But keep in mind that koh Lanta is rather a quiet island and if you travel to more secluded parts it might not be easy to get a ride back. 

I recommend asking your hotel for help and getting a phone number from a tuk-tuk driver, so it will be easier to arrange a pick-up. Definitely having a moped is quite handy.

It’s also possible to rent a bicycle, although that will take you much longer to get from point A to B (remember that it’s very hot in Thailand). 

It’s Not a Party Island

If you are coming to Thailand to experience wild parties, Koh Lanta won’t be a place to find them. Head instead to Koh Phi Phi or Phuket.

Koh Lanta offers a much calmer atmosphere. Although there are plenty of beach bars with live music, massage parlors on every corner, and fire shows on the beach, you won’t find crowded clubs open every day. 

Koh Lanta doesn’t have a central area where all the bars and clubs are located, so you might need to plan your night out in advance.

Beach Access

Koh Lanta’s west coast is mostly covered with sandy beaches. You won’t need to worry about crowds, as the beaches are wide and spacious. You will find plenty of bars and restaurants there, as well as street food vendors and popular convenience stores.

The island’s coastline is impressive, but the beaches aren’t as picture-perfect as the ones you might find on smaller, more secluded islands. The water is warm and perfect for swimming, but don’t expect the turquoise hues often seen in travel brochures.

Nature

One of the best things about Koh Lanta is its diversity. Everyone can find something interesting here. There are not only many easily accessible beaches but also nature hikes, caves, and mangroves.

If you’ve always wanted to do a jungle hike, Koh Lanta is an excellent place for it. When planning your trip, you can choose from more or less challenging trails and even visit neighboring islands for a bigger adventure.

Where to Eat

I’m not providing specific restaurant recommendations, as Thailand is full of great local places. During your five days on Koh Lanta, you can explore numerous fantastic eateries.

I would suggest trying freshly caught seafood, along with typical snacks, fruits, and desserts. We found the restaurants on Koh Lanta to be very affordable and the food always delicious.

Final Thoughts on Koh Lanta 5 Day Itinerary

Koh Lanta offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for a 5-day visit.

From the natural beauty of the mangrove forests to the lovely beaches and vibrant local culture, Koh Lanta has something for everyone.

For me, the Island’s charm lies in its rich variety of experiences, while maintaining a peaceful and laid-back vibe.

Each day can be filled with activities and you will never get bored. The key is good planning and a bit of organization beforehand.

Read My Other Posts about Visiting Koh Lanta:

• Koh Lanta vs. Koh Lipe – Which Island is Better for Your Vacation – 2024 Guide
• The Ultimate Guide to the Best Beaches on Koh Lanta, Thailand (2024)
• How to Travel to Koh Lanta, Thailand – Ultimate Guide (2024)
• Explore Koh Lanta in One Day: 24-hours Itinerary filled with Nature and Culture (2024)
• How to Do a Road Trip in Koh Lanta, Thailand – Detailed Guide (2024)
• Is Koh Lanta Old Town Worth Visiting? 10 Reasons to Visit – 2024 Guide
• Should You Skip Koh Lanta, Thailand? 20 Reasons to Visit – 2024 Guide