Walking Tours Ko Tao

Exploring Ko Tao via Walking Tours

Welcome to Ko Tao (Turtle Island), a tropical paradise located in the Gulf of Thailand! This enchanting island offers an abundance of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure. To truly immerse yourself in the heart of Ko Tao, consider taking a self-guided walking tour.

Preparation:

  1. Comfortable Footwear: Wear appropriate shoes for walking, as you’ll be covering various terrains. Sandals may not suffice for all parts of your journey.

  2. Sun Protection: Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses! The tropical sun can be intense.

  3. Water & Snacks: Carry water bottles to keep hydrated, and energy bars or snacks for sustenance.

  4. Map & Guidebook: While there are numerous walking tour routes available online, a physical map of the island can help you navigate more effectively.

Walking Tour Routes:

  1. Ao Tanote to Ao Muang (North Coast): Start at the peaceful Ao Tanote Beach and walk along the coastline to the bustling Ao Muang. Along the way, marvel at the pristine beaches, quaint fishing villages, and lush forests.

  2. Sairee Beach Loop: This popular route offers stunning views of Sairee Beach, a vibrant beach town with a variety of restaurants, shops, and bars. Don’t miss the scenic viewpoint at Khai Mook Beach.

  3. John-Suwan Viewpoint (South Coast): For a more challenging hike, venture to John-Suwan Viewpoint. The reward is panoramic views over the southern coastline and out to sea.

  4. Shoreline Temple Tour: Discover Ko Tao’s cultural heritage by visiting the island’s Buddhist temples. These include Wat Mango Lam, Wat Chalok Baan Khao, and Wat Tham Yai (Big Buddha Temple).

Safety Tips:

  1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout your tour to avoid dehydration.

  2. Avoid the Sun at Peak Hours: The sun is strongest between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM; try to walk during early mornings or late afternoons.

  3. Respect Local Culture: Be mindful of local customs and traditions when visiting temples or other cultural sites.

  4. Stay on Designated Paths: To protect the environment, stick to designated paths whenever possible.

Enjoy your walking tours in Ko Tao! The island’s captivating beauty and rich culture are waiting to be explored.