ISLAND WILDERNESS
Seek out the seclusion of a private island in Myanmar’s isolated Mergui Archipelago
When Myanmar’s Mergui Archipelago opened up to tourism in the late ‘90s, it was the dive companies on Thailand’s Andaman Coast who first led sailing and diving excursions to the remote region. Even then, the archipelago of around 800 islands remained largely untouched due to its isolation and size: it’s only in recent years that luxury travel made its appearance here.
The high-end yacht company Burma Boating began sailing through the region in 2013 and 2018 saw the arrival of luxury eco resorts, Wa Ale and Awei Pila. A two-hour speedboat ride from Kawthaung in southernmost Myanmar takes you to the island Wa Ale Resort calls home at the heart of Lampi Marine National
Park. Wa Ale’s founders, Chris and Farina Kingsley, set the resort up with the primary intention of supporting the local communities and establishing conservation projects. These efforts, which are now in full swing, come hand in hand with the endeavour for optimum sustainability.
Boardwalks lead you through wild mangrove and the opensided pavilion overlooks the roaring ocean. Safari-style tented suites hide within the island’s foliage and beautifully crafted tree houses sit within the canopy. All accommodation comes with uninterrupted views of the waves as they come rolling in. Days here are spent hiking the island’s forest trails, snorkelling over thriving reef and kayaking wild jungle channels.
This exploration of land and sea is also the focus at Awei Pila, which is tucked into the beachfront forest of Pila Island. Hiking, kayaking and diving are among the excursions offered, along with visits to the nearby Moken village. Combine a stay at Awei Pila with a luxury liveaboard experience on one of its sister company Burma Boating’s sailing yachts. Book a cabin or charter the entire boat for exploration of the jungle enshrouded islands and remote dive sites.