{"id":31809,"date":"2019-11-27T10:47:57","date_gmt":"2019-11-27T10:47:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.adventureinyou.com\/?p=31809"},"modified":"2023-01-03T05:22:56","modified_gmt":"2023-01-03T05:22:56","slug":"why-visit-mergui-archipelago","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.adventureinyou.com\/myanmar\/why-visit-mergui-archipelago\/","title":{"rendered":"Why You Need to Visit Myanmar’s Mergui Archipelago Now"},"content":{"rendered":"

Have you ever dreamed of visiting a place that isn\u2019t even on Google Maps? To be a pioneer, setting foot on land that barely anyone has visited before?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Now imagine this land is filled with the most beautiful beaches known to mankind, dense forests filled with roaming animals, and no people at all besides the rare sea gypsy looking for his latest catch. If this sounds appealing to you, it\u2019s time to start planning your trip to Myanmar\u2019s Mergui Archipelago.<\/span><\/p>\n

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The Mergui Archipelago is made up of more than 800 islands, most of which have never seen a human footprint before. The archipelago is remote and distant, barely traveled except for those hungry for adventure.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s nothing short of paradise here as tourism infrastructure is yet to reach the shores and humans haven\u2019t had the chance to spoil the islands yet\u2026 So visit now, before it\u2019s too late!<\/span><\/p>\n

How to Get to Mergui Archipelago<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The journey to the unspoilt paradise that is the Mergui Archipelago is a long one, but well worth it. You\u2019ll have to take a combination of transportation including buses, planes, cars, and boats to reach your final destination.<\/span><\/p>\n

The main gateway to the Mergui Archipelago is Kawthaung, Myanmar, which has its own airport, but you\u2019ll generally need to be in Yangon already to fly there. The flight takes about two to three hours.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alternatively, and surprisingly, the easier way to get to Kawthaung is from Ranong, Thailand.<\/span><\/p>\n

If you\u2019re coming from Thailand, you can take an overnight bus, plane or private car to Ranong from Bangkok and then take a boat across the river to Kawthaung. Keep in mind you still need a visa to cross the border by land (or water), so have your documents prepared for immigration!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Insider Tip: <\/b>When it comes to flying into or around Myanmar, Flymya<\/strong><\/a> is the best place to look for flights and get the best deals!<\/span><\/p>\n

Where to Stay in the Mergui Archipelago\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Since tourism infrastructure is close to nil throughout the Mergui Archipelago, the most common (and best) way to see the islands is through a sailing tour on a chartered yacht or liveaboard ship.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

This means you get the comfort of the western world (think air conditioning, hot showers, and guaranteed meals), combined with the ability and convenience to travel between the islands. You\u2019ll also have an experienced guide on board who will be well-versed in the Archipelago and all that it holds.<\/span><\/p>\n

If you prefer to be based on land, there are a few resorts scattered throughout Mergui. They’re generally situated around Lampi Marine National Park, which is the only protected area in the Archipelago, and Boulder Bay. They range in style and accommodation type but you can expect something between a bungalow, a treehouse, and a villa.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Some of the best ones include <\/span>Wa Ale Island Resort<\/strong><\/a>, <\/span>Boulder Bay Eco Resor<\/strong><\/a>t<\/span> and <\/span>Victoria Cliff Resort at Nyaung Oo Phee<\/strong><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Staying at a resort in Mergui definitely has its perks as many of them specialize in snorkeling and diving and offer guests unique excursions. They also provide the opportunity to take out kayaks or hit the best hiking routes.<\/span><\/p>\n

But no matter which option you choose, be prepared to pay a pretty penny for accommodation as staying in one of the most untouched places in the world doesn\u2019t come cheap — ironic, right?<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s also worth noting that all travelers headed to the Archipelago are required to obtain permission from the government before their visit. This helps prevent masses of people coming at once and keeps the ecosystem widely untouched at the same time.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Permits for Kawthaung & Environs costs $100 USD for 5 days and 4 nights, and $150 for Myeik & Environs. If you wish to stay longer, it costs an additional $20 per day.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

To apply, you need to fill out an application and submit a scanned copy of your passport. The total process takes between 15 and 20 working days.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Why You Should Visit Mergui Archipelago<\/strong><\/h2>\n

There are countless reasons why you should visit the Mergui Archipelago, the main one being it\u2019s a once-in-a-lifetime experience<\/strong><\/a>. <\/span><\/p>\n

Not yet convinced? Here are 5 reasons why you should visit the Mergui Archipelago.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s a Pristine Island Paradise<\/strong><\/h3>\n

While the Burmese government opened up the Mergui Archipelago to tourism in 1997, it\u2019s still widely untraveled and remains in gorgeous condition. This hidden paradise is sitting off the coast of Myanmar, just waiting to be discovered by those brave enough to travel the wild waters.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

A visit to these islands grants you access to the most pristine paradise you could ever imagine. Most of the islands in the Mergui Archipelago remain untouched by humans, and have had little to no man-made influence on its shores.<\/p>\n

Those who do take a chance on this remote vacation destination will be faced with the world\u2019s most perfect, unspoilt beaches spanning as far as the eye can see. <\/span><\/p>\n

With crystal clear water, lush green surroundings and the softest, whitest sand you can imagine\u2026 Just without the hordes of tourists this kind of setting typically attracts. <\/span>Run wild on your own private beaches here. It\u2019s unlikely you\u2019ll see anyone else your entire time on the archipelago!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

There are endless places to visit, like Lampi Island<\/b>, Myanmar\u2019s first marine national park, and Myauk Ni Island<\/b> where you can get a taste of local life.<\/p>\n

Go jungle trekking and sea urchin spotting throughout 115 (or Frost) Island<\/b> or travel to Nyaung Wee Island <\/b>to visit Moken villages.<\/p>\n

While each island is diverse, all offer rich diversity in species on land and in water, all waiting to be explored. Enjoy the most colorful hard corals around Phi Lar Island<\/b> and hit the Burma Banks<\/b> for some of the best diving in all of Southeast Asia.<\/p>\n

No matter where you end up in the Mergui Archipelago, you won\u2019t be disappointed with the natural wealth overflowing from these islands.<\/p>\n

Get Closer to a Thriving Natural Ecosystem<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Since there has been little to no human contact with these islands, the natural ecosystem is one of the most vibrant in the world. Life on land and in the water is in its purest form, with nature running its course completely uninterrupted.<\/span><\/p>\n

This means that there is a great deal to explore and see on these islands by way of natural ecosystems.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Underwater, you\u2019ll experience some of the best diving in the entire world with thriving marine life below the surface. You\u2019re bound to see creatures beyond your wildest dreams and the most brilliant corals imaginable. Sharks, rays, and giant schools of fish; shrimps, oysters, clams, lobsters, and colorful critters\u2026 It never ends!<\/span><\/p>\n

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Diving in the Mergui Archipelago is one of the most thrilling adventures to be had around the islands. <\/span><\/p>\n

Since this area sees so few visitors, everything underwater has remained pristine and intact, unlike dive sites around Thailand and Bali that see massive amounts of people every single day. Plus, the conditions here are virtually perfect (outside of monsoon season, of course), meaning warm, calm waters with thriving ecosystems waiting to be discovered.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The diversity throughout the Mergui Archipelago is what makes these waters so captivating. Beneath the surface, eagle and manta rays roam freely, accompanied by ribbon eels, false pipefish, frogfish, and other Southeast Asian natives.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The best dive sites include the <\/span>Burma Banks<\/b> where you\u2019re guaranteed a shark sighting and <\/span>Black Rock<\/b> which is filled with silvertip, whitetip and blacktip sharks, along with sting and manta rays. <\/span><\/p>\n

Finally, round out your diving tour of the islands with a dip below <\/span>Little Torres Island<\/b> for some of the most whimsical and colorful corals you could imagine. It\u2019s truly some of the most remarkable marine life in the entire world.<\/span><\/p>\n

One day, the marine conditions here will attract loads of divers, hungry for their glimpse of paradise — but for now, the waters are all yours. To fully explore all that this region has to offer, a diving liveaboard<\/strong><\/a> is the ideal choice.
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On land, there are dense forests to hike through, exotic birds soaring above your head and creatures lurking in the darkest corners.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Thrilling, exciting and everlasting: the untouched nature here is out of this world.<\/span><\/p>\n

Bask in Complete Seclusion<\/strong><\/h3>\n

While the beauty of Southeast Asia is undeniable, it\u2019s recently been overrun with tourists. There\u2019s seldom a silent beach for personal enjoyment and always loud hostels with a crowd of drinking foreigners.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Mergui Archipelago is the exact opposite. Here, you\u2019ll enjoy complete seclusion – an off-the-grid vacation at its finest. There will be no one to bother you early in the morning or keep you up at night. Instead, you\u2019ll have the islands to yourself for complete, peaceful serenity.<\/span><\/p>\n

A visit to the Mergui Archipelago also gives you the chance to unplug. It\u2019s unlikely you\u2019ll have cell service and there\u2019s certainly no WiFi. So your only choice here is to kick back, relax, and enjoy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Meet the Moken People<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The vast majority of the Mergui Archipelago is uninhabited. However, it is home to a special people: the Moken sea gypsies.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

There are about 3,000 Moken people who are indigenous to Mergui, and they are best known for being able to hold their breath longer than possible by any human. They\u2019re expert divers and have survived here for hundreds of years by living off the land and learning to read the sea.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Moken people generally live on boats and travel between different islands in the archipelago. They\u2019re shy, but you may spot a few if you\u2019re lucky! Besides them, you can count on having the entire place to yourself.<\/span><\/p>\n

Have An Experience Unlike Anything Else<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Above all, a trip to Myanmar\u2019s Mergui Archipelago is an experience unlike anything else.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Imagine sailing empty seas in search of the next sandy cove or paddling through the waters on the hunt for secret caves. Sandy beaches that stretch for miles and miles on end all to yourself and the freshest seafood you could ever imagine.<\/span><\/p>\n

A trip to Mergui is an adventure for sure, and not for the faint-hearted. But those who take the opportunity to visit before the islands become overrun with tourists will have an unforgettable experience. An experience of peaceful solitude, and a look into what the world once was in a time long ago\u2026<\/span><\/p>\n

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If you\u2019re looking to get off the beaten path in the most beautiful place possible, a trip to the Mergui Archipelago in Myanmar<\/strong><\/a> is just what the doctor ordered. There\u2019s truly no better place to unwind as there will be no one to disturb you, both on land or via your cellphone or laptop.<\/span><\/p>\n

As one of the least traveled places in the world, visiting the Mergui Archipelago now is an opportunity that should not be missed, but also one that comes with great responsibility. As pioneer visitors, it\u2019s of the utmost importance that those who reach this paradise leave it exactly as they found it and encourage others to do the same.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

In acting this way, we can preserve these sites for years to come and the Mergui Archipelago will be able to retain its beauty, now and always.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check these out<\/h3>\n