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The North Andaman region boasts a variety of pristine eco-systems ranging from dense tropical jungle, lush mangrove forests, and colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life. Explore deep into these ecosystems with a trained local guide and translator to discover a variety of exotic wildlife, flora, and fauna. You can forget the hustle and bustle of modern life as you adventure into the great outdoors learning how local communities live in harmony with their surroundings. Whether you're an eco junkie or novice, we'll help you learn more about the fascinating eco-systems and wildlife of the Andaman.
Click on an activity from the list below for a complete description, or simply scroll down the page.
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Jungle Hikes |
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Wild Animal Rescue Conservation Center |
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Mangrove Exploration |
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Orchid Nursery |
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Waterfalls and Jungle Rivers |
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Island Discovery |
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Fishing Trip |
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Mu Ko Surin National Park |
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Cycling |
| "Snaking through the mangrove swamps made me appreciate the natural beauty of these rich ecosystems. We passed by fish farms and received friendly waves before heading out to the open ocean of the Andaman Sea, a vast space dotted with islands and fishing boats. Magnificent blue skies and a wide expanse of ocean inspired awe and many photo opportunities." |
| Stephanie, Tung Nang Dam village February 2006 |
Jungle Hikes
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Surrounding the villages are lush jungles, ideal for people of all abilities. Villages have created Interpretive Nature Trails, complete with guide ropes and informative signs and viewpoints over the Andaman Sea and mangroves. The jungle is home to a variety of animals including vocal gibbons, hornbills, macaques, wild boars and lizards, a delight for nature lovers.
| "Our guide, Mustafa was very knowledgeable about plants in the forest. He was engaging and humorous with people in the group. He was helpful when on the trek making sure as a group we were safe, helping us down slippery parts of the trail. He makes a good guide and would be able to support others to become forest guides." |
| Heather Rick, Go Differently tours Tung Nang Dam village August 2005 |
A local guide will highlight points of interest and explain how plants and trees are used by the villagers in cooking and for medicinal purposes. You'll also have a feast on your way up as you sample all the edible plants.
Wild Animal Rescue Conservation Center
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This highly respected Conservation Center provides a safe sanctuary for mistreated or sick wildlife, mostly gibbons and exotic birds. A highly-trained group of rangers care for the sick animals and prepare them for their release back into the wild. Visitors can take a guided tour around the sanctuary, and learn about Thailand's native animals and what steps are being taken to protect these beautiful creatures.
Mangrove Exploration
The North Andaman region is home to Thailand's healthiest and most extensive mangrove forest. By rowing or motor boat, head deep into the mangroves to discover an amazing world camouflaged amongst the tangle of roots, branches, and foliage. Experience a wonderful display of wildlife which may include crab-eating monkeys that come to the waters edge at low tide to feed, land-walking mud-skipper fish, black crabs, playful otters, and electric blue kingfishers. For those who are less energetic, the trip can also be enjoyed from the comfort of a long-tailed boat, no exertion involved!
Help rehabilitate the mangroves and volunteer on a mangrove reforestation project, for as little as an hour. Make a positive contribution during your trip. Check the volunteer opportunities page for more information.
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Orchid Nursery
Wild orchids are usually taken from the forest and being used as decoration in homes and restaurants. In an effort to protect orchids in the forest, a local resident on Tung Nang Dam (link to Tung Nang Dam page) started an orchid nursery with funding support from Andaman Discoveries. You can help at the nursery by building orchid pots using twigs and coconut shells. You will be proud of your finished product — with your name on it! With a local guide, you can also replant the orchids in the forest from an easy hike.
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Waterfalls and Jungle Rivers
Not too far from Ban Talae Nok, there are waterfalls, rapids and rivers that are easily accessible. They are great for swimming or simply relaxing. The surrounding forest around provides shade and an idyllic location for lunch and a snooze. Don't forget your book! The waterfalls are best to visit during the rainy season when the volume of water is high.
Island Discovery
Imagine being on your very own deserted island, imagine no more! Just a short boat ride from the village is several uninhabited islands, with nothing but sand, forest and rocky outcrops for exploring. You can enjoy a BBQ lunch on the beach and feast on freshly caught seafood, garden-fresh vegetables and Thai curries. Swaying palm trees, powdery soft sand and clear waters make this a picture-perfect destination to laze away a couple of hours in the sun.
Fishing Trip
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Many of the villagers are local fishermen, and enjoy having people join them as they go out to lay or collect their traps or nets. The fishermen still use traditional fishing techniques and methods to catch fish, squid and crabs. You can also try your hand at fishing with a simple line. We offer a night option, which allows you to be out in the peaceful ocean under a canopy of stars. A truly magical experience for all.
Ko Surin National Park
Experience amazing tropical diversity without having to spend a fortune to go SCUBA diving! Just an hour's boat ride from our office is the stunning Koh Surin National Park, boasting some of Thailand's best snorkeling sites in the world. Read more about Ko Surin National Park to learn how to get there, where to stay, and what to do.
Cycling
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| ©Craig Lovell 2005 |
For cyclists passing through the region, visiting a village makes a welcomed break. Villages offer comfortable accommodation and excellent food, everything you need for a good night's sleep to prepare you for the next leg of your journey.
Tung Nang Dam island is perfect for cycling. There is a well-maintained path that meanders through fruit orchards and plantations, past quaint wooden houses and takes you right to the beach, where you can go for a relaxing dip in the sea. The island is flat and is suitable for all levels of fitness.
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