5 Top Activities in Koh Samui

Wandervogel123 Florian
Oct 14
10 min read

Updated: 4 days ago

You are currently on Koh Samui? Then these 5 top activities in Koh Samui are ideal for you!

The 5 top-rated activities on Koh Samui, based on popularity and reviews on GetYourGuide, are typically:

Koh Samui "Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park" Day Tour (including Boat Trip, Kayak Option, and Snorkeling):

The day trip to the Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park is one of the absolute highlights for visitors to Koh Samui. The park consists of 42 uninhabited islands featuring breathtaking limestone formations and is a protected maritime wonderland.

Here are the key elements of this popular activity, as often offered on GetYourGuide:

1. Transportation (Boat Tour)

Pick-up and Transfer: Most tours include convenient hotel pick-up from Koh Samui and transfer to the departure pier.
Boat Types: You can often choose between different boat types, which impacts the duration of the crossing and comfort level:
- Speedboat: The fastest option, ideal for maximizing time spent in the park.
- Large Boat/Cruise Ship: More comfortable, often offers more space and amenities (sometimes including German-speaking guides or a sunset option).
Catering: A light breakfast, a buffet lunch (often Thai cuisine) served onboard, as well as water and soft drinks are generally included throughout the day.

2. Main Attractions and Activities

Talay Nai (Emerald Lake): The most famous sight. This is an emerald-green saltwater lagoon enclosed by high cliffs. You hike via a short but steep path on the island of Koh Mae Ko to enjoy the breathtaking view of the lake.
Hiking and Viewpoint: On the island of Koh Wua Ta Lap (the park's main island), you can hike to the highest viewpoint. The ascent is challenging (sturdy footwear is recommended), but you are rewarded with a spectacular panoramic view over the entire archipelago.
Kayaking (Option): Many tours offer optional kayaking. You paddle along the coastline, discovering hidden caves, beaches, and the dramatic cliffs. This is a popular feature of the tours.
Snorkeling and Swimming: There are usually one or more stops at locations like Koh Wao or Koh Tay Plow, where you can swim in the clear waters and snorkel with provided equipment (visibility can vary depending on the season).

3. Important Information

National Park Fee: The National Park entrance fee (currently often 300 THB for adults) is sometimes included in the tour price, but sometimes must be paid separately on-site. Be sure to check this in the booking details.
Duration: Tours typically last all day (approx. 8–10 hours, including transfers).
Best Time: The park is often partially or fully closed between November and mid-December due to the monsoon season and for conservation reasons.

In summary, the Ang Thong National Marine Park offers a perfect blend of adventure (hiking, kayaking), relaxation (beach, snorkeling), and spectacular nature photography.

You can book the tour directly here:

You can find package deals to Thailand here on Check24!*

Koh Samui Island Hopping to "Pig Island" (Koh Madsum / Koh Mat Sum) & Koh Tan (Snorkeling)

The island hopping tour to "Pig Island" (Koh Madsum / Koh Mat Sum) and Koh Tan is one of the most popular half-day or full-day excursions from Koh Samui, particularly because of the unique encounter with the pigs.

Here are the details and highlights of these tours, which you frequently find on platforms like GetYourGuide:

1. The Main Attractions

Koh Madsum (The Pig Island):

Highlight: This is the main destination. The island is famous for the friendly, free-roaming pigs that live on the beach and often pose for photos.
Activities: Relaxing on the pristine white sandy beach, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and, of course, taking selfies with the pigs.

Koh Tan (Koh Taen):

Highlight: Known for good snorkeling conditions. The island lies within a shallow marine conservation area.
Activities: Snorkeling on coral reefs to observe colorful reef fish and other marine life. Some tours also offer kayaking.

2. Tour Details

Feature	Details
Duration	Usually half-day tours (approx. 4–5 hours) or full-day tours (approx. 6–7 hours).
Transportation	Typically by speed boat or a traditional longtail boat. The speed boat is faster, while the longtail boat is more traditional and leisurely. Departure is from the southern pier of Koh Samui (e.g., Thong Krut Pier).
Inclusions	Transfers: Hotel pick-up and drop-off (often included, but remote areas may incur an extra charge). Meals: Thai lunch/snacks, water, and soft drinks are often provided. Equipment: Snorkeling gear, life jackets, and sometimes kayaks are supplied.
Itinerary	After hotel pick-up and transfer to the pier, the tour usually heads first to Pig Island (Koh Madsum) or the snorkeling stop at Koh Tan. The order may vary, and lunch is often served on one of the two islands.

3. Important Tips

Best Time of Day: The morning tour is often recommended as there are usually fewer tourists, and the pigs may be more active.
What to Bring: Remember sun protection (sunscreen, hat), swimwear, and a camera (ideally with an underwater casing) for photos with the pigs and underwater.
Animal Welfare: Although the pigs are accustomed to visitors, it is recommended to behave calmly and respectfully. The tours emphasize an experience in a natural environment.

You can book the tour directly here:

You can find package deals to Thailand here on Check24!*

Koh Samui Ethical Elephant Sanctuary Tour

Visiting an Ethical Elephant Sanctuary on Koh Samui is an ethically responsible alternative to elephant riding. These sanctuaries focus on providing rescued elephants with a dignified and species-appropriate life in a natural environment.

Tours at such elephant sanctuaries (like the Samui Elephant Sanctuary or Elephant Jungle Sanctuary) are very popular and are generally offered as half-day trips.

1. Ethical Background

No Riding, No Shows: The most important aspect of an ethical elephant sanctuary is that the elephants are not forced to perform tricks or carry tourists. The animals are free to move and exhibit their natural behaviour.
Rescue and Care: Admission fees and donations fund the rescue, medical care, and upkeep of the elephants, which are often rescued from the logging industry or tourism.
Elephant Well-being First: Programs are designed so that the elephants are not overworked or stressed.

2. Typical Tour Schedule (Half-Day Tour, approx. 3–5 hours)

Program Item	Description
Pickup & Transfer	The tour begins with pickup in an air-conditioned minivan from your accommodation and transfer to the sanctuary.
Introduction	Upon arrival, there is a welcome (often with a drink/snack) and an informative introduction by an English-speaking guide about the elephants' history and the sanctuary's mission.
Food Preparation	Active participation in preparing the daily food or supplements (e.g., rice balls with vitamins and fruits) for the elephants.
Feeding	The highlight: You feed the elephants directly from a platform or a safe distance. This allows for gentle interaction.
Observation & Walk	You accompany the elephants on a walk through the grounds (often through the jungle or spacious areas). Here, you observe the animals interacting, eating, and playing in the mud.
Bathing/Showering (Varies!)	Important: This is the point that varies at truly ethical sanctuaries: Some offer the chance to observe the elephants in the mud pit or assist with bathing/showering (without forcing the animal). The strictest ethical sanctuaries (such as often the Samui Elephant Sanctuary) completely forgo communal bathing or mud spa to grant the animals their privacy. Here, you only observe the elephants playing in the water/mud.
Meal	Conclusion with a Thai buffet lunch or dinner, often overlooking the elephants in their enclosure.
Return Transfer	The transfer back to your accommodation.

3. Practical Information

Duration: Usually 3 to 5 hours (pure tour time, excluding transfer).
Cost: The price is higher compared to other activities on the island, as it directly contributes to the elephants' support (often between €80 and €120 per person for a half-day tour).
What to Bring: Change of clothes (you might get muddy), insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, and a towel. Closed shoes are recommended.
Booking: Tours can be booked directly through the sanctuaries' websites or via booking portals such as GetYourGuide.

You can book the tour directly here:

You can find package deals to Thailand here on Check24!*

Koh Samui Jungle Safari in a 4x4 Off-Road Vehicle or ATV/Quad Tour:

Jungle adventures in a 4x4 vehicle or on a Quad/ATV are the most popular off-road tours to explore the mountainous and lush interior of Koh Samui. They offer very different experiences.

Here is a detailed comparison of the two options to help you with your decision:

Comparison: Jungle Safari (4x4 Jeep) vs. ATV/Quad Tour

Feature	Jungle Safari (4x4 Off-Road Vehicle)	ATV/Quad Tour
Experience Focus	Sightseeing & Group Adventure (overview of the island's highlights).	Self-Driving & Adrenaline (pure off-road driving experience).
Vehicle	Modified 4x4 vehicle (Jeep) with an open top or rooftop seating. You are a passenger.	Quad/ATV (All Terrain Vehicle). You are the driver ( or passenger).
Duration	Full-Day (approx. 6–8 hours including transfer).	Short to Half-Day (often 1, 2, or 4 hours driving time).
Route & Stops	Comprehensive: Visits many of the island's top sights (e.g., Big Buddha, Hin Ta & Hin Yai, Magic Garden, Namuang Waterfall, Panoramic Views).	Focus on Off-Road Track: Primarily drives on unpaved jungle trails, coconut or rubber plantations; usually only a few stops at waterfalls or viewpoints.
Intensity	Medium. The ride is very bumpy (especially on the rooftop seats), but more relaxed since you don't have to drive yourself.	High. More physically demanding as you have to steer the vehicle yourself over difficult terrain (mud, gravel, steep slopes).
Cost	Generally higher, as lunch, all entrance fees, and full-day service are included.	Generally lower for the pure driving time (price varies greatly depending on duration).

1. Jungle Safari in a 4x4 Off-Road Vehicle

The 4x4 Safari is the classic all-inclusive jungle tour on Koh Samui.

What to expect:

You sit in the back of the Jeep (often with elevated seats or on the roof) while the experienced driver maneuvers you over extremely steep and rugged trails – that is the real thrill.
The tour combines the wild off-road ride with the cultural and scenic highlights of the island.

Typical Highlights:

Magic Garden (Secret Garden)
Mummified Monk (Wat Khunaram)
Namuang Waterfall (incl. swimming break)
Panoramic Restaurant with breathtaking views over the island (incl. Thai lunch buffet)
Hin Ta & Hin Yai (Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks)

Ideal for: Families, groups, anyone who wants to see the island's highlights and enjoy a thrilling ride without having to drive themselves.

2. ATV/Quad Tour

The ATV tour is a pure driving and adrenaline experience where you are at the controls.

What to expect:

You receive a safety briefing and then follow your guide in a convoy.
The routes are usually challenging, leading through dense jungle, riverbeds, and gravel roads on plantations.
The experience is very muddy and dusty – prepare for dirty clothes!

Duration Options (common):

1 Hour: Short introductory tour, often focused on a plantation and simple trails.
2 Hours: Deeper drive into the jungle, more challenging terrain, often with a short stop at a waterfall or viewpoint.
3-4 Hours (Rare): Comprehensive off-road routes with more stops.

Ideal for: Adventure seekers, motorcycle or off-road enthusiasts who are looking for an adrenaline rush and enjoy being active themselves.

🎯 Recommendation for Choice

Choose the Jungle Safari (4x4): If you are looking for a comprehensive overview of Koh Samui with all its important sights and panoramas, and prefer a bumpy but comfortable ride.
Choose the ATV/Quad Tour: If your main goal is to drive off-road yourself, splash mud, and you are seeking an intense adrenaline rush rather than extensive sightseeing.

You can book the tour directly here:

You can find package deals to Thailand here on Check24!*

Koh Samui Zipline Adventure (e.g., Tree Bridge Zipline):

The Zipline Adventure on Koh Samui is an excellent activity for anyone looking to combine nature, adrenaline, and spectacular bird's-eye views. The best-known option is often connected with the Tree Bridge Café.

Here are the key details about the Zipline experience (using the popular Baumbrücke/Tree Bridge Zipline as an example):

🌳 Highlights of the Zipline Adventure

Flight through the Jungle: You glide along steel cables over the treetops and the lush green of the island's interior.
Breathtaking Views: Enjoy panoramic views over the jungle, coconut plantations, and often all the way to the coast and the sea, sometimes even of the Ang Thong Marine National Park.
Tree Bridge Café: Many tours end at or include a stop at a unique café or viewpoint on the mountain, such as the Tree Bridge Café, which offers great photo opportunities and a place to relax.
Waterfall Stop: The routes often lead near or directly over a waterfall (e.g., the Tan Rua Waterfall), where you can take a short break.

⏱️ Duration and Schedule

Zipline Time (Zipline): The pure zipline ride usually lasts approx. 1 to 2 hours, depending on the number of stations (often 8 to 15 ziplines) and the group's speed.
Total Duration: Including hotel transfer, safety briefing, and any breaks, the entire tour usually takes 3 to 4 hours.
Times of Day: Multiple tours are often offered per day (e.g., morning and afternoon).

🛠️ Safety and Equipment

Professional Guides: The staff is trained, provides a detailed safety briefing, and accompanies you along the entire route to secure the equipment and assist with braking.
Equipment: High-quality safety harnesses, helmets, and gloves are provided.

⚠️ Important Participation Notes

Age and Weight Restrictions: Most providers have a minimum age (often 5 or 8 years, with smaller children usually riding tandem with the guide) and a maximum weight limit (frequently 120 kg).
Physical Condition: The adventure is not suitable for:
- Pregnant women
- Individuals with severe back, neck, or joint problems
- Individuals with severe fear of heights (although many participants report that the experience helps them overcome their fear).

📍 Combination with Other Activities

Some providers also combine the Zipline tour with other adventures such as an ATV/Quad ride or a shortened 4x4 Jungle Safari to create a more comprehensive day program.

In short: If you are looking for thrills, love breathtaking views, and want to spend active time in nature, the Zipline Adventure is an excellent choice.

You can book the tour directly here:

You can find package deals to Thailand here on Check24!*

5 Top Activities in Koh Samui - A Summary

If you want to experience the wild mountainous landscape and jungle of Koh Samui, you have a choice of three exciting options, each with its own unique appeal. The 4x4 Jungle Safari is the ideal full-day excursion for exploring many of the island’s most important sights and panoramic views in an adventurous and bumpy collective ride. For a pure adrenaline rush and an active, muddy off-road experience where you are in the driver's seat, the shorter ATV/Quad Tour is perfect, leading deep into the plantations and over challenging trails. The Zipline Adventure, on the other hand, offers a unique blend of nature immersion and thrill, allowing you to glide like a bird over the treetops—often combined with a visit to the Tree Bridge Café and a waterfall—and enjoy spectacular views without having to drive yourself. Thus, each activity offers an unforgettable perspective on the tropical beauty of Koh Samui.