Transportation
There’s no public transport on Koh Lanta. Most people rent a scooter and that’s pretty much all you need. The island is about 30km from north to south, so even the longest trip only takes around 40 minutes.
Getting to the island #
Most people fly into Krabi Airport and then take a transfer to Koh Lanta. The drive takes about 2 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic and ferry wait times.
A few options for the airport transfer:
- Shared minivan - Cheapest option at around 400-500 THB per person. They wait until the van is full before leaving, so timing is unpredictable. Can be cramped.
- Private minivan - Around 2,500-3,000 THB for the whole vehicle. Worth it if you’re traveling with others or have a lot of luggage. Book in advance.
- Taxi - Similar price to a private minivan. Available at the airport but better to arrange ahead of time.
Transfer services #
Scooter rental #
This is how most people get around. You’ll see rental shops all over the island, especially along the main road in Saladan and near the popular beaches.
- Daily 250-300 THB
- Weekly Ask the shop
- Monthly 3,000-5,000 THB
The price depends on the season, the bike’s condition, and how long you’re renting. Always check the brakes, tires, and lights before you ride off. Take photos of any existing scratches so you don’t get blamed for them later.
Nare Scooter Rental Shop has nicer, newer bikes than most places on the island. Worth paying a bit extra for a well-maintained scooter.
Driving tips #
Good to know before you ride
- An international driving permit (IDP) is technically required. Police do occasional checkpoints and the fine is 500 THB without one.
- Wear a helmet. It's the law, and the roads get steep and winding in the southern part of the island.
- Fill up at a proper gas station rather than the roadside bottle sellers - the fuel quality is better and the price is fair.
- Roads are mostly in good shape, but watch out for sand, gravel, and dogs.
- Drive on the left side of the road.
Don’t want to drive? #
If you don’t have a license or you’re not comfortable on a scooter, Koh Lanta Bike Rentals rents e-bikes. Good for shorter trips around your area.
Flat tires #
When you inevitably get a flat, head to this tire repair shop. Fixes are quick and cheap (around 50-100 THB).
Taxis on the island #
There’s no Grab or ride-hailing apps on Koh Lanta. Taxis are old-school: you call or message someone directly. They’re useful when you have a lot of luggage or need to get somewhere late at night.
Expect to pay 200-500 THB depending on distance. Agree on the price before you get in.
Tuk-tuks and songthaew (shared pickup trucks) are sometimes available near Saladan and the main beaches, but they’re not something you can count on. Prices tend to be inflated compared to a direct taxi.
Ferries #
During high season (November to April), ferries run daily from Saladan Pier to nearby islands. In low season, most routes shut down.
| Destination | Travel time | Approx. price |
|---|---|---|
| Koh Phi Phi | 30 min - 1 hr | 400-500 THB |
| Phuket | 1.5 - 2 hrs | 600-1,200 THB |
| Krabi (Klong Jilad Pier) | 1 hr | 400-500 THB |
| Ao Nang / Railay | 1 - 1.5 hrs | 400-600 THB |
| Koh Ngai | 30 min | 400 THB |
| Koh Lipe | 3 hrs | 1,200-1,700 THB |
Ferry operators include Chaokoh Ferry, Bundhaya Speed Boat, Tiger Line Ferry, and Andaman Wave Master. You can book tickets at travel agencies in Saladan or online through Ferryhopper or 12Go Asia.
Book a few days ahead during peak season (December/January), as popular routes sell out.
Day trips by boat #
Longtail boats can be hired for day trips to the nearby islands (Koh Rok, four islands tour, etc.). You’ll find tour operators all over Saladan and along Long Beach. See the trips page for more details.