Tarutao Marine National Park was declared in 1974 to protect forested islands, coral reefs and sea-turtle nesting beaches off the western coast of Satun province in southwest Thailand. With an area of 1,490 square kilometres, of which 84 percent is ocean, it is Southeast Asia’s largest marine reserve. The park is home to at least 860 vascular plant species, 30 mammals, 140 birds and 50 butterfly species.

The park features three island groups. Koh Tarutao, the largest island, reaches a maximum elevation of 708 metres above sea level. The Koh Adang – Koh Rawi group lies about 50 kilometres west of Tarutao. Midway between the two island groups lies a tiny cluster of islands, of which Ko Kai and Ko Klang are the largest. This marine national park is fairly accessible and has one of the best coral reefs in the Andaman Sea. The Siam Society is arranging an expedition for members to visit or revisit this far south marine national park from Thursday 3 to Sunday 6 December 2020.

Members will be staying 3 nights at Koh Adang. The Adang group of islands, comprising Adang, Rawi, Dong and Lipe are largely granite rock and are the best sites for coral reefs. Steep and rugged, the high point on Adang is about 702 metres and on Rawi 463 metres only. Members who enjoy spending a holiday at remote islands will have an opportunity for nature study, photography, swimming, snorkelling, and walking on the beach. Accommodation will be simple bungalows with simple Thai food only.