Discover Ko Chang

Think tantalising clear waters, endless stretches of pristine white beach, and palm trees swaying in the distance. These are the islands of Thailand. However, there are quite a few islands to choose from, with each one offering something a little bit special.

For many, Ko Chang provides the perfect destination. This idyllic island is developed, but not over-developed, catering for everyone from luxury travellers to budget backpackers. Ko Chang seriously has something for everyone, whether that’s getting out and about, or simply lazing on the beach.

How do you get there?

Ko Chang is pretty big for a small island, covering approximately 429 square kilometres. Located in the Gulf of Thailand near the Cambodian border, Ko Chang is around 300 kilometres east of Bangkok.

Visitors can fly from Bangkok to Trat, or choose to drive or take the bus. From Trat, it’s simply a short ferry trip over to the island. Ko Chang can also be reached by boat from nearby islands, so bear this in mind if you’re planning an island hopping tour.

Once you’re in Ko Chang, getting around is fairly easy. You can either catch a songthaew (pick-up taxi), or rent a motorbike. Do keep in mind that if you choose to stay on the less developed and more isolated eastern side of the island, you will definitely need your own transport.

Where should you stay?

There is a huge choice of accommodation on Ko Chang, suiting all tastes and budgets. You could opt for a luxury villa or a budget beach hut, stay in an extravagant resort or a cheap and cheerful hostel. The choice is all yours.

If you choose to stay on the popular west coast of Koh Chang, White Sand Beach offers plenty of resorts, while Lonely Beach is better suited to backpackers. Alternatively, Klong Prao Beach offers a range of upmarket, large-scale resorts, while Kai Bae Beach is a little more relaxed, with a number of exclusive resort options on offer.

When should you visit?

Ko Chang has three main seasons. The cool season is the busiest, running from November to the end of February. The hot season runs from March to May, and can be somewhat uncomfortable in its heat and humidity. The rainy season starts towards the end of May, running until October. While the weather can be unpredictable, the island is lush and gorgeous – and gloriously quiet!

What can you do there?

A trip to Ko Chang can be as relaxed or as activity-packed as you like. You could spend your entire trip lazing on a sun lounger, indulging in the occasional massage, or get into the various activities Ko Chang has to offer.

Head to the Zip N Zorb Adventure Park or the Mangrove Forest Conservation Centre, check out the elephant trekking or take to the high seas in a sailing boat. From kayaking and jungle trekking, to diving and snorkelling, your days on Ko Chang can be as packed as you want them to be! While ideating what you should do, it’s important to ensure your upcoming adventurous holiday is covered with Chubb Travel Insurance