Quick facts
Daily budget
For a full category-by-category breakdown of accommodation, food, transport, and activity costs in Koh Lanta, see the dedicated budget guide.
Practical info
Entry & Visas
- Thailand grants visa-free entry for 60 days to most nationalities — extendable 30 days at Krabi Immigration (1,900 THB)
- Koh Lanta is reached by ferry from Krabi (1.5 hours, 400 THB), Koh Phi Phi (1 hour, 350 THB), or minivan from Krabi Airport (2.5 hours, 350 THB)
- During monsoon season (May–Oct), some ferry routes are suspended — check schedules before booking
Health & Safety
- Koh Lanta has a small hospital in Saladan and several clinics along the main road — serious cases go to Krabi Hospital (2 hours by minivan)
- Mosquitoes are present year-round — bring DEET repellent and consider long sleeves at dusk. Dengue is a risk; no prophylaxis available
- Scooter accidents are the main safety risk — wear a helmet, ride cautiously on steep southern roads, and avoid riding at night on unlit stretches
Getting Around
- Scooter rental (200–250 THB/day) is the standard way to explore — the island is 30km long and one main road runs north-south
- Songthaews (shared pickup trucks) run along the main road from Saladan to the southern beaches for 50–100 THB, but schedules are irregular
- Taxis and tuk-tuks charge fixed prices (200–500 THB per trip) — negotiate before getting in
Connectivity
- AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove SIM cards available in Saladan — 299 THB for 8 days of unlimited data. Passport required for registration
- Wi-Fi is available at most accommodations and cafes. Quality varies — the northern beaches have the most reliable connections
- Mobile coverage is good on the main road and beaches; remote southern areas and the interior may have weak signal
Money
- ATMs in Saladan and along the main road charge 220 THB per withdrawal — withdraw larger amounts to reduce fees
- Cash is preferred at local restaurants, markets, and small businesses. Beach bars and tourist restaurants often accept cards
- Exchange rates in Saladan are reasonable but slightly worse than Krabi town or Bangkok — change money before arriving if possible
Packing Tips
- Pack light, breathable clothing — Koh Lanta is hot year-round (28–34°C). A light rain jacket is useful even in dry season for afternoon showers
- Reef shoes or water sandals are essential for rocky beaches at the national park and for boarding longtail boats
- Bring a waterproof dry bag for boat trips — longtail boats get splashy and phones/cameras need protection
Cultural tips
Wai Greeting
The wai (palms pressed together with a slight bow) is the Thai greeting. Return a wai when offered — it shows respect and is appreciated, especially outside tourist areas like Lanta Old Town.
Muslim Community
Koh Lanta has a significant Muslim population, particularly in Old Town and the east coast villages. Dress modestly when visiting these communities and be aware that some local restaurants are halal.
Chao Ley Heritage
The Chao Ley (sea gypsy) community on Koh Lanta's east coast has lived here for generations before tourism arrived. Visit their communities respectfully — buy crafts directly from residents if you want to support them.
Temple Etiquette
Remove shoes before entering any temple or home. Cover shoulders and knees at Buddhist temples. Koh Lanta has several small temples along the main road — the same etiquette applies even at minor sites.
Marine Conservation
Koh Lanta's reefs are fragile. Never stand on coral, chase turtles, or collect shells. Use reef-safe sunscreen. The Lanta Marine National Park rangers actively enforce conservation rules.
