Andaman Discoveries

Andaman Discoveries is an award-winning social enterprise and a leader in sustainable, community-based tourism in Thailand. Founded in the wake of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, the organization originated as the North Andaman Tsunami Relief (NATR) with the mission of helping villagers rebuild their lives and livelihoods. Recognizing the potential for tourism to be a force for positive, long-term change, it transitioned into a social enterprise.

Andaman Discoveries’ core principle is to create and operate travel experiences in genuine collaboration with local communities. This ensures that tourism directly benefits the villagers, while also preserving their traditional way of life and natural environment. A significant portion of its profits is funneled back into the communities through the North Andaman Network Foundation, supporting vital projects in education, conservation, and cultural preservation.

Key offerings and areas of impact include:

• Community-Based Tours and Homestays: Offering travelers immersive, authentic cultural exchanges, allowing them to stay in local homes and experience traditional village life.
• Volunteer and Service Trips: Providing opportunities for visitors to contribute to community-led initiatives, such as teaching English to local children, engaging in conservation efforts, and supporting youth development.
• Economic Empowerment: Creating sustainable employment opportunities for villagers, particularly women, as guides, handicraft producers, and homestay hosts, leading to a higher income and enabling families to stay together.
• Environmental Stewardship: Promoting a deep appreciation for the region’s unique ecosystems by engaging communities and visitors in mangrove reforestation, waste management, and wildlife conservation.

By serving as a bridge between respectful travelers and local communities, Andaman Discoveries fosters meaningful cross-cultural connections and demonstrates how tourism can be a powerful tool for social, economic, and environmental sustainability.