Tan Island (Ko Tan)

Tan Island and the Katen Archipelago offer visitors a more isolated journey far from the touristy crowd in Samui. Seven islands in the Katen archipelago, known as the "South islands", are Tan, Mat Sum, Rap, Mat Kong, Mod Dang, Wang Nai and Wang Nok Islands. Offshore from the southern coast of Samui, it is only a few km to Ko Tan. Yet, you will find that it is a totally different world on this island.

Ko Tan covers just 7.5 square kms, but it is the largest of the seven. It is the only inhabited island in the deserted archipelago. The resident population here is registered at 70 and another 31 have resettled, or are temporarily employed. There is one temple, one school, one clinic, one small store, and four budget resorts providing accommodation for overnight visitors. There are no roads and no vehicles. You can travel around the island on foot or by boat.

No need to mention touristy nightlife, as there are no bars and no discos. Ko Tan remains undisturbed and unspoiled. It might also be difficult at night as the electricity comes from generators that are turned on for only a few hours each evening. Lights are out by 10 pm.

Ko Tan is all about peace, quiet and nature. Its attraction is pastoral, unsophisticated ways of life and a calm environment. There are two main bays on the island: Ao Ork on the east and Ao Tok on the west. The highest hill at 218 m has some interesting paths interweaving the island. Take a hike on the nature trails to see various species of flora, birds, butterflies and animals.

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