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

Table of Contents

July 23, 2024

Modified on

January 29, 2026

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.

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

TL;DR Itinerary Version

Day 1 🛶 Mangroves → 🐈 Animal Shelter → 🌅 Sunset Swim

Day 2: 🦇 Jungle Cave → 🐘 Elephant Sanctuary → 📍 South Point View

Day 3: 🏝️ Island Hopping → 🏮 Old Town → 🏴‍☠️ Pirate Bay

Day 4: 🚣 Ghost Island Caves → 🌉 Siri Lanta Bridge → 🏖️ North Beach

Day 5: 💎 Emerald Cave → 🤿 4-Island Snorkeling Tour

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 gives a unique perspective of its diverse ecosystem.
But, if it’s not your thing, you can rent a private boat, or explore the mangroves via the 1-kilometer walkway.
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!

Entrance Fee: 40 baht ($1.20)
Kayak Rental: 500 baht ($15)
Private Boat: 1,000 baht ($30)

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 for lunch at one of the nearby restaurants or closer to the beach.

Koh Lanta Animal Welfare is dedicated to helping homeless, injured, and abused animals.
Shelter operates 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 2 hours here.

Evening – Explore the West Coast Beaches

The closest beach is just a 10-minute walk from the shelter.

After a day of exciting activities, wind down by exploring the beautiful beaches on the Koh Lanta’s west coast.

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 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, 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.
t’s a remarkable opportunity to witness these majestic creatures respectfully and responsibly.

The tour lasts about four hours, concluding around 6 PM. I

Evening – Southernmost Point and Sunset by Khlong Chak Beach

Since we’ll be in the southern part of the island, let’s drive a bit furtherL

We will reach 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, other islands from 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 help you).

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.

Koh Bubu

First you will reach secluded Koh Bubu, an uninhabited island with gorgeous waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Enjoy the calm, sandy beaches and the serene environment.

Koh Por

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 its 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.
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.
It’s an area full of authentic cultural sites – old wooden buildings, small temples, and shrines.
There are many local stores and 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 has hotel pickup and a dedicated tour guide.

Designed as a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, our itinerary includes:

long-tail boat ride through the mangrove forest
kayaking
climbing
cave exploration
swimming

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.

People walking on the beach, boat and jungle covered cliff, Koh Lanta

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, so prepare for a packed itinerary.

Emerald Cave

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.

Snorkeling

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.

Beach

Our trip will also include relaxation time 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.

People sitting on the sandy beach next to the tree on Ko Kradan island, turquoise water and islands in the distance

Exit from the Emerald Cave, pool and beach inside Emerald Lagoon

Alternative Activities

If you’re wondering if there are more activities on Koh Lanta, you can extend your stay and easily choose from a variety of options:

Road Trip: Rent a scooter or car and explore the island at your own pace. Discover hidden beaches, scenic viewpoints, and local villages.
Day Trip to Phuket and Koh Phi Phi (Maya Bay): Visit the iconic Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi, famous for its stunning scenery, or explore the vibrant city life and 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 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 chill at a beachside bar.

Staying longer on Koh Lanta and adding leisurely beach days in between the active days, can be a perfect way to balance our packed itinerary.

Where is Koh Lanta Located and How to Get There?

Koh Lanta is conveniently located in the northern Malacca Strait, making it a perfect neighbor to Koh Phi Phi, Krabi Town, and Phuket.
Saladan Pier serves as the island’s central hub, offering extensive ferry and speedboat links to numerous destinations across Thailand’s west coast.
Traveling from Bangkok from Bangkok is remarkably simple if you fly into Krabi Airport; from there, a direct minivan takes you across the car ferry and straight to the island without any changeovers.
Another great option is flying into Phuket and boarding a ferry or speedboat at Rassada Pier for a scenic arrival.
To ensure a smooth finish to your journey, most minivan, ferry, and speedboat operators include a direct hotel drop-off service.

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 because:

As the weather is generally favorable, and most businesses and attractions are open.
The high season offers a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of activities.
During the low season, although you might find cheaper accommodation, it can be challenging to book ferries or trips, and many bars and restaurants may be closed.

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

Since the island is 13 miles long and not easily walkable, you will need a vehicle to explore most of the popular attractions.
Mopeds are the most common choice for both locals and tourists, offering the greatest flexibility for sightseeing.
Car rentals are available as an alternative, but you should ensure you have an international driver’s license ready to present to rental agencies.
Local taxis and tuk-tuks are available across the island, though it is important to note that ride-sharing apps like Grab or Uber do not operate here.
If you travel to secluded areas by taxi, it is wise to keep a driver’s phone number or ask your hotel for assistance to ensure you can arrange a return trip.
Bicycles are an option for those seeking exercise, though the tropical heat and long distances between points make this a more challenging choice.

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.

Although there are plenty of beach bars, massage parlors on and fire shows on the beach, you won’t find crowded clubs open every day.

For party vibes head instead to Koh Phi Phi or Phuket.

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.

Sunrise view point, little island in the distance,

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
mangroves

If you’ve always wanted to do a jungle hike, Koh Lanta is an excellent place to try 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, local eateries.

I would suggest trying freshly caught seafood, along with typical Thai snacks, fruit, 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.

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.