To reach the Mergui Archipelago, you typically go through Kawthaung, a small port town in southern Myanmar, which is the main gateway to this untouched paradise. Here’s how to get there depending on where you're starting from:
From Thailand
Most popular and easiest route
Option 1: Via Ranong (Thailand)
- Fly to Ranong Airport (UNN)
Daily flights from Bangkok (DMK) with airlines like Nok Air and AirAsia.
2. Transfer to the pier in Ranong (15-30 min by car).
3. Cross the border by boat to Kawthaung, Myanmar
- Takes about 20–30 minutes by long-tail boat or 10 minute by speedboat.
- Visa-on-arrival available for many nationalities.
Many tour operators handle the whole crossing, including visa paperwork and boat transfers.
From Within Myanmar
If you're already in Myanmar, travel to Kawthaung directly.
Option 2:
Fly from Yangon to Kawthaung
- Domestic flights available via Myanmar National Airlines, Air KBZ, or MAI.
- Takes about 2 hours.
From Kawthaung to the Archipelago
Once in Kawthaung, you can:
- Join with local tours
- Charter a private yacht or speedboat
- Book a day trip or multi-day island hopping tour
⚠️ Notes & Travel Tips
- Permits are required to enter the Mergui Archipelago, as it’s a protected area. Most tour operators will arrange this for you.
- The best time to visit is November to April (dry season).
- Bring USD cash—ATMs may be unreliable in Kawthaung.
- Accommodation ranges from luxury eco-resorts (like Awei Pila,AALUA Resort, Victoria Cliff resort on the Nyaung Oo Phee island) to overnight boats.
