What are the current requirements and experiences for a border run between Ranong and Kawthaung after the reopening?

Border Runs Ranong Kawthaung Andaman Club Visa Requirements Vaccination Proof Immigration updates Post COVID-19 Travel Expats in Thailand

Mar 24, 2023

2 years ago

Sascha **********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Has anyone done a (successful) border run Ranong - Kawthaung (or Andaman Club) since the border opened there 7 March?

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TLDR : Answer Summary

Since the border reopening on March 7, 2023, individuals have reported successfully crossing from Ranong to Kawthaung. Travelers need to show vaccination proof or undergo a test, and there is no immigration office currently at the Andaman Club. A recent update notes that while the Andaman route is open, the processes require additional bribes on the Myanmar side. Pre-COVID, the boat fare was around $20 for a round trip or $5 for shared seats.

Richard *********

Pre Covid a boat was $20 there and back OR seat on a shared boat for around $5

2 years ago

Nigel *********

There was a recent update on the Ko Phayam page. Andaman Open BUT no immigration there. Ranong Kawthong open... it's as you described but you need to provide a 100thb bribe on the Myanmas side

2 years ago

Paul *******

@Nigel ********

OK that is strange given you're allowed to spend time in Tachilek and Kengtung (if you cross at Mae Sai) and out of all land border crossings, the Ranong-Kawthoung one is considered the safest. I've never heard of separatist activity in Kawthoung or the islands.

2 years ago

Paul *******

@Nigel ********

Can you share the page with us? I'm interested in visiting there, so it would be useful to know whether the Burmese side is allowing us to spend some time on the islands down there, not just do a border run.

2 years ago

Nigel *********

@Paul ******

I don't think you can spend time there. I think it's bounce only. That said I know of 1 Liveaboard that has been to the Mergui Archipelago recently, but it was a group from Asia Geographic ( scientists)

2 years ago

Reply to

Nigel *********

Stuart *********

Saw a post a day ago I believe from someone who’d done it. Andaman Club route is not open. You need vaccination proof or do test there.

2 years ago

Sascha **********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Stuart ********

vaccination proof no problem. I just have some questions about the process, will search for the post. Thanks Stuart! 🙏🏼

2 years ago

Stuart *********

@Sascha *********

If it’s the same as pre covid you rock up to the port. You need two copies of your passport, a crisp (new)US$10 note for the Myanmar side. Negotiate the price of the long tail over. Stamp out at the immigration booth. Ride over (approx 40 minutes). Stamp in/out and pay the $. 10 minutes or so to buy duty free if you want then get boat back.

2 years ago

Paul *******

@Stuart ********

If you're unvaccinated you just provide proof of a Covid test within 72 hours.

2 years ago

Sascha **********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Stuart ********

that sounds simple enough. Now only to find a crisp US$10 bill 😝

2 years ago

Stuart *********

@Sascha *********

There is (or was) a shop just opposite the port entrance that will sell you one for 500 baht and do the copies for you

2 years ago

Paul *******

@Stuart ********

There are surely money changers in town (even nearby the pier) that can sell you a US$10 note for closer to the real exchange rate. Every other border crossing, including Mae Sot and Mae Sai have banks and money changers in town.

2 years ago

Sascha **********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Stuart ********

haha that’s a hefty exchange rate. Already got one from an American friend 😉

2 years ago

Reply to

Sascha **********

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