Tarutao National Park
Fifty-one wild islands, an old prison colony, and none of the polish of Thailand's famous archipelagos.
Plan your visit
- Hours
- Daily 08:30–16:00
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Details
- Phone
- +66 74 783 485
Full opening hours
Tours that include Tarutao National Park
Skip-the-line entry, guided visits and day-tour combos around Tarutao National Park.
Why go, and how to do it well
This is the Andaman without the deckchairs. Fifty-one forested islands off Satun, protected, largely undeveloped, and a long way in spirit from Phi Phi or Samui. The draw is the wildness itself: jungle interiors, empty beaches, coral gardens in decent health, and wildlife that includes sea turtles, hornbills and, if you're very lucky, dugongs.
The other half of the story is darker. Ko Tarutao was a prison colony in the mid-20th century, deliberately chosen for how remote and inescapable it was. Remnants of the settlement survive on the island and you can walk them. Park headquarters and ranger facilities are on Ko Tarutao too, so it's the natural base if you want more than a day trip. I'd give it two nights minimum. Anything shorter and you spend most of your time on boats.
Go for the snorkeling and the sense of being genuinely far from things. Don't go expecting beach bars, resorts or much in the way of choice at dinner.
Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Oct 2026
Stay within reach of Tarutao National Park
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Tours that include Tarutao National Park
Skip-the-line entry, guided visits and day-tour combos around Tarutao National Park.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Tarutao National Park, round out your day in Koh Lipe with contrasting stops nearby.
325 Walking Street, Tambon Ko Tarutao, Amphoe Mueang Satun, Chang Wat Satun 91000, Thailand
Open in Google MapsTips for Visiting Activities & Tours
Do Outdoor Activities in the Morning
Heat and humidity peak from noon to 3 PM. Schedule jungle treks, cycling tours, and outdoor cooking classes for early morning. Water activities are more flexible since you're in and out of the sea.
Check Operator Safety Records
For adventure activities (zip-lining, bungee jumping, diving), check recent reviews specifically mentioning equipment condition and safety briefings. Thailand's regulation varies — reputable operators will have insurance and certified guides.
Tarutao National Park: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tarutao National Park worth visiting?
Tarutao National Park holds a 4.6★ rating from 1,996 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated activities & tours in Koh Lipe.
What are the opening hours of Tarutao National Park?
Tarutao National Park is typically open 08:30-16:00 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit Tarutao National Park?
The best months to visit Koh Lipe are November – April, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – January & Chinese New Year — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: May – October (monsoon; many businesses close).
Where is Tarutao National Park located?
Tarutao National Park is at 325 Walking Street, Tambon Ko Tarutao, Amphoe Mueang Satun, Chang Wat Satun 91000, Thailand, in Koh Lipe. Getting around Koh Lipe: Walking — the island is under 3 km end to end; Motorbike taxis with sidecars for luggage runs.
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