Tung Yee Peng Mangrove Forest, Koh Lanta: Kayak Tunnels

Tung Yee Peng, on the sheltered east coast of Koh Lanta, is the main mangrove area for visitors: a network of tidal channels lined with mangrove roots, some forming green tunnels overhead. Kayaking through them is one of the island's best-loved activities. It is gentle, shaded and sheltered from the open sea, which also makes it a good rainy-day choice.

What you will see and do

• Root tunnels: narrow channels where mangrove branches form a canopy over the water.
• Mudflat wildlife: fiddler crabs, mudskippers and various birds are common; monkeys are sometimes seen near the pier.
• Tide-dependent routes: channels are shallow and tidal, so operators time trips to the tide table. Some low-tide routes are narrower or muddier than usual.
• Guided or independent: book a guided half-day tour or rent a kayak and paddle a marked loop at your own pace.

Planning your paddle

Tung Yee Peng is on the east side of the island. Most tours include hotel pickup; if you go independently, allow travel time and check tide times. The water is flat and sheltered, so previous kayaking experience is not necessary.

Wear a swimsuit under light clothing, water shoes or sandals, and bring sun protection, a hat, insect repellent and a dry bag for your phone. A change of clothes is useful if you are moving on to something else.

Several tours combine the mangroves with Old Town or nearby islands, so compare the itineraries before booking.

For a fuller look at what happens on a tour and how to choose, read Koh Lanta mangrove tours: what to expect.

Mangrove tours you can book

Most bookedFrom US$24

3.5 hours Coastal hotels (pickup available) 4.7 (1088)

Half-Day Mangrove Kayaking Tour with Lunch

• 1,088 reviews at 4.7★: the island's most-reviewed mangrove tour
• Half-day kayak through the Thung Yee Peng mangrove tunnels, lunch included

Best for: First-timers who want one easy, well-reviewed mangrove morning

Check availability & price

Half-day comboFrom US$27

4 hours Coastal hotels (pickup available) 4.7 (118)

Mangrove Kayak & Old Town Half-Day Tour

• 4.7★ from 118 reviews
• Mangrove kayaking paired with a stop in Koh Lanta Old Town on stilts over the sea

Best for: Travellers short on time who want mangroves and culture in one half-day

Check availability & price

Budget pickFrom US$16

3 hours Thung Yee Peng mangrove pier 4.6 (42)

Mangrove Kayak Rental at Thung Yee Peng

• 4.6★ from 42 reviews
• Simple kayak rental at the Thung Yee Peng mangrove pier. Go at your own pace, no guide included

Best for: Independent travellers on a budget who don't need a guided tour

Check availability & price

Frequently asked questions

Last updated September 2026.