THE LOST WORLD IN SOUTHERN MYANMAR

The Mergui Archipelago, a collection of over 800 small islands in southern Myanmar, is a practically uninhabited paradise that captivates visitors with its pristine natural beauty, reminiscent of the enchanting early explorers who visited over 200 years ago. Lush tropical jungles cascade down the hills of countless islands, separated from the sparkling azure waters by delicate ribbons of white sand, interrupted only by ancient mangroves and mysterious sea caves. This enchanting archipelago is home to a diverse array of exotic species, including mouse-deer, jungle cats, armadillos, and monkeys, frolicking in the undergrowth while Burmese pythons and monitor lizards bask in the sun. The vibrant blue sky is adorned with the spectacular colors of kingfishers, sea eagles, and rare southeastern hornbills.

Our island safari begins at Kawthaung, formerly known as Victoria Point, a location near the Thai border town of Ranong, approximately 300 kilometers north of Phuket. Our vessel, the Sea Gipsy, serves as the ideal platform for exploring this wild paradise. It offers easy access to the pristine islands and sea caves via kayak or stand-up paddleboard, and it’s just a short step away from breathtaking coral reefs that await your exploration. This area is renowned for its world-class snorkeling sites, featuring a diverse range of hard and soft corals and an abundance of tropical fish and other marine life.

The only full-time inhabitants of this enchanting region are the nearly extinct Moken, also known as the Salone People. Often referred to as ‘Sea Gypsies,’ these people live almost exclusively on their boats, roaming the bountiful tropical seas as hunter-gatherers. You’ll have the opportunity to witness their unique way of life, which is in perfect harmony with their aquatic environment and has remained unchanged for centuries. Experience the thrill of paddling a hand-carved canoe from a single tree trunk and observe their traditional methods of spear-fishing and collecting food from the sea floor.

Embark on a journey of discovery and adventure as you immerse yourself in the heart of this secluded and untouched paradise. Relive the spirit of exploration as brave souls once set sail for uncharted territories, uncovering breathtaking pockets of this earth and the remarkable cultures that have called these places home.

Security
Rest assured, your safety is our top priority. The secluded nature of this area ensures a secure environment, allowing you to relax and fully enjoy everything the archipelago has to offer.

Permission
To preserve the magic of this area, the government requires travelers to obtain pre-approved permission before visiting. We can handle all the necessary applications for you. The process typically takes about 20 working days, depending on the availability of authorized officials. A scanned copy of your passport and Myanmar visa approval document is required for the application. The Mergui Archipelago Royalty Fee is USD 100 for Kawthaung & Environs and USD 150 for Myeik & Environs. If your trip exceeds 5 days and 4 nights, an additional fee of USDD 20 per day will be applied.

After your cruise, you can continue your exploration and visit other captivating destinations such as Yangon, Myleik, Bagan, Mandalay, Inle Lake, and Putao. We can arrange these trips through our office. However, it’s crucial to inform us about your plans during the booking process to ensure that any necessary applications are organized and that we can assist you in dealing with the government officials.