Live Your Best Lives
The Mergui Archipelago, a southern archipelago of Myanmar, is one of the world's most endangered attractions. Located on the eastern side of the Andaman Sea, it is the largest island group off the coast of Indochina, comprising nearly 900 islands of varying sizes.
The Andaman Sea is a calm, deep blue, and the sunlight reflects on its surface like a handful of pearls, shimmering and shimmering, appearing and disappearing, rising and falling. Life in Myeik is quiet, simple, and elegant, with a sense of being at peace with the world.
It is a group of newly developed islands in southern Myanmar, most of which belong to Shanhu Island. It was once a training base for the Chinese Navy. Most of the area on the island is planted with olive trees. There are many tropical fish on the seabed, such as butterfly fish, lion fish, and coral reefs, which are suitable for deep diving and sailing.
Marine hot and humid climate, with high temperature and heavy rainfall.
As a diving resort, the best season for diving is from November to April.
Recommended play time: 1-2 days
The Mergui Archipelago, consisting of around 800 islands, is a hidden gem in Myanmar. It is known for its untouched beauty, diverse ecosystems, and the indigenous Moken people's unique maritime culture. The archipelago has become increasingly popular for eco-tourism and is considered one of Southeast Asia's best-kept secrets.
The Mergui Archipelago is located off the southern coast of Myanmar, near the Andaman Sea. To get there, fly to Kawthoung, the nearest city, which can be reached from Yangon or other major Myanmar cities. From Kawthoung, boat services are available to the islands.
The Mergui Archipelago is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is most pleasant for water activities.
There is no entrance fee for the archipelago itself. However, there may be fees for specific tours or activities like boat trips and diving, which can be arranged through local tour operators in Kawthoung or online before your trip.
For boat tours and diving excursions, it is recommended to book at least 1-2 days in advance, especially during the peak tourist season (November to March).
A 3-5 day trip is ideal to explore several islands, enjoy water activities, and immerse yourself in local culture.
Guided tours are available, particularly for boat trips around the islands and visits to Moken villages. These tours are typically conducted in English, though some local guides may also speak Burmese or Thai.
There are no night visits or light shows in the Mergui Archipelago, as it is primarily a nature-focused destination. However, many boat tours offer sunset cruises, which are a popular way to end the day.
The Mergui Archipelago is not as crowded as other popular Southeast Asian destinations. The least crowded times are during the rainy season (May to October), although some activities may be limited during this period.
There are limited facilities on the islands, but some of the larger islands have basic amenities such as small shops, rest areas, and local food stalls. For more comfort, visitors can stay in resorts that provide full amenities.
The islands are more suitable for adventurous travelers, as some areas may require walking or boat trips. It may not be fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain and limited infrastructure.
Cash is required for most purchases in the Mergui Archipelago, as credit cards and mobile payments are not widely accepted. It is advisable to carry Myanmar Kyat when traveling to the area.
There are small local seafood restaurants on some of the islands, and more dining options in Kawthoung, the nearest city. Seafood is a highlight, with fresh catches available in most places.
Vegetarian options are available, though the focus is primarily on seafood. Vegan and halal options may be limited but can be found in larger towns like Kawthoung.
There are several beachfront resorts and guesthouses in Kawthoung and on some of the islands, such as the Mergui Archipelago Resort and the nearby Seaview Hotel in Kawthoung.
Souvenir shops can be found in Kawthoung and on the larger islands, offering items like handmade crafts, local jewelry, and traditional Moken handicrafts.
From Kawthoung, you can take a boat or flight back to Yangon or other major cities in Myanmar. Additionally, private boats and ferries are available for travel to nearby destinations in the Andaman Sea.
