Koh Lanta is famous for its concern for the welfare of animals, especially elephants. There are three notable sanctuaries on the island that offer ethical interactions with these majestic creatures.

The first is Following Giants Koh Lanta Ethical Elephant Sanctuary, which earned an impressive rating of 4.8 out of 5. This place stands out because it allows guests to observe elephants in their natural habitat, without bathing or feeding, which are often controversial at other resorts. Guests praise the educational aspect of the visit, during which you can learn a lot about the lives and habits of elephants. Prices are not listed, but it's worth checking the current offerings on their website.

Another place worth a visit is the Lanta Elephant Sanctuary, which also enjoys a high rating of 4.7. Here, guests have the opportunity to interact more closely with the elephants, being able to feed them, lubricate them with mud and wash them in a nearby lake. The important thing is that the elephants are not forced to perform circus acts or ride them. Prices are not listed in the reviews, but it is worth checking the current rates directly with the sanctuary.

The third place is ( Elephant lovers, conservationists )lantaislandsafari with a rating of 4.6. This place offers a similar experience to feeding and washing elephants, but on a smaller scale. Visitors stress that the elephants are well cared for and treated with respect.

For animal lovers who want to learn about the broader aspect of animal care, the Lanta Animal Welfare Visitor Center is invaluable. This animal shelter, which received the highest rating of 4.9, offers a unique experience, such as walking shelter dogs or playing with cats in a specially designed 'cat town.' Importantly, admission is free and the center is sustained by voluntary donations.

When comparing these places, it's worth noting that Following Giants and Lanta Animal Welfare focus more on education and observation, while Lanta Elephant Sanctuary and lantaislandsafari offer a more interactive experience. The choice depends on personal preference, but each of these places provides an ethical approach to animal care.

Koh Lanta offers incredible opportunities for nature lovers who want to explore the mysteries of tropical flora and fauna. One of the most important places on the island's map is Mu Ko Lanta National Park, which is rated 4.3. Located on the southern tip of the island, the park offers a variety of activities, from scenic trails through the jungle to beautiful swinging beaches. Admission to the park costs 200 baht per person (as of 2023), which is the standard price for foreigners in Thai national parks. Note that some paths can be steep and challenging, especially during the rainy season.

For those looking for less-traveled trails, the เส้นทางศึกษาธรรมชาติแหลมโตนด (Laem Tanod Nature Trail) is ideal. This site, with a rating of 4.7, offers a 3.4-kilometer trail that leads through lush vegetation and ends at the beach. During the hike, a variety of animal species can be observed, including monkeys. The trail is free, but requires proper footwear and a supply of water.

Another fascinating site is Koh Lanta's Lighthouse, Waterfall Bay, rated 4.5. This place combines an enchanting lighthouse with picturesque waterfalls. Admission costs 200 baht, but the ticket includes admission to the national park. The views from the lighthouse are breathtaking, especially at sunset.

For those who want to explore the local ecosystems, Thung Yipeng Tourism Community offers a unique experience. With a rating of 4.4, this place is famous for its kayak tours through mangroves. Prices range from 400 to 600 baht per kayak, depending on the length of the tour. This is a great opportunity to see the fascinating fauna of the mangroves up close, including colorful crabs and monkeys.

When comparing these places, it's worth noting that Mu Ko Lanta National Park offers the most diverse experience, but can also be the most crowded. The Laem Tanod Nature Trail is ideal for those seeking tranquility and authentic contact with nature. Lighthouse Koh Lanta combines history with nature, offering exceptional views. Thung Yipeng Tourism Community, on the other hand, is the best choice for those who want to actively explore the mangrove ecosystem.

When going on these trails, always remember to prepare properly - comfortable shoes, water, insect repellent and a camera are essential. Each of these places offers a unique glimpse of Koh Lanta's rich wildlife and is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for any nature lover.

Koh Lanta is famous for its beautiful beaches, which are not only a place to relax, but also a great spot for wildlife observation. One such beach is Khlong Chak Beach, which is rated 4.7. This intimate beach offers a tranquil atmosphere and is the perfect place to watch the sunset. Unlike more crowded beaches, here you can enjoy peace and quiet. Admission to the beach is free, making it an attractive option for frugal travelers.

For those looking for more extensive facilities, Phra Ae Beach (also known as Long Beach), with a 4.3 rating, is an excellent choice. This wide, sandy beach offers a gentle descent into the sea, making it ideal for families with children. Along the beach there are many bars and restaurants where you can relax and dine after a day in the sun. However, it is worth remembering that the beach can get quite crowded during the high season.

For lovers of active recreation, Koh Lanta offers a number of options. One of them is kayaking in the mangroves organized by the Thung Yipeng Tourism Community. This activity allows close encounters with local fauna, including monkeys and colorful crabs. Prices for renting a kayak start at 400 baht, depending on the length of the route.

If you're looking for something more exciting, consider a visit to Lanta Zipline. This place, rated 4.7, offers thrilling zipline rides over the jungle canopy. Prices aren't listed in reviews, but guests agree that it's an experience worth the price. Safety is a priority here, and the instructors are professional and helpful.

For those who want to combine physical activity with education, TIME FOR LIME - Thai Cooking School and Cocktail fun offers a unique experience. With an impressive 4.9 rating, this place combines learning how to cook Thai food with charity work for animals. Although prices are higher than other attractions (the place is labeled expensive), guests insist that the quality of the experience fully justifies the cost.

When comparing these places, it's worth noting that each offers something different. Khlong Chak Beach is ideal for those seeking tranquility and contact with nature, while Phra Ae Beach offers more amenities and entertainment. Kayaking at Thung Yipeng is a great option for active nature watchers, Lanta Zipline provides a dose of adrenaline, and TIME FOR LIME combines culture with culinary and charity.

Whether you prefer quiet relaxation on the beach, active exploration of nature, or learning local culture through cooking, Koh Lanta has something for every nature lover. Remember to always respect the local environment and follow the principles of sustainable tourism during your adventures on this beautiful island.