How to Plan Your Tour of Koh Samui: Round the Island Sightseeing

Koh Samui is the second-largest island in Thailand and is known for its pristine beaches, palm trees, and emerald green waters. However, there’s more to Koh Samui than just beaches, and a sightseeing tour around the island should be on your list of things to do. One of the best ways to explore Koh Samui is by taking a Round the Island Sightseeing tour. This group tour is perfect for budget travelers who want to see the top attractions on the island while avoiding the hassle of navigating Koh Samui’s busy streets. Here’s what you can expect from the tour:

Overview of the Tour

The tour takes you around Koh Samui to cultural sites, scenic viewpoints, and natural attractions. You’ll be picked up at your hotel in an air-conditioned minivan to begin your adventure. The tour will take approximately 6-7 hours, and you’ll have plenty of time to explore each location without feeling rushed.

Itinerary

1. Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)

The tour starts at the Big Buddha Temple, which is one of the most popular attractions on Koh Samui. The temple is home to a 12-meter tall golden statue of Buddha and offers stunning views of the coastline. You’ll have around 20 minutes to explore the temple and take in the views.

2. Na Muang Waterfall

Next up is Na Muang Waterfall, a natural wonder that should be on your Koh Samui bucket list. You’ll have 20 minutes to take a short walk to the waterfall and dip in the pool below it, so be sure to bring your swimwear.

3. Nathon Town

Nathon Town is the administrative center of Koh Samui and is home to a traditional market where you can experience local culture and taste traditional Thai food. You’ll have around 45 minutes to explore the market, so be sure to bring some cash if you want to shop or try some of the delicious street food.

4. Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks

Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks are known as the Grandfather and Grandmother rocks due to their phallic and yonic shapes. It’s a unique sight that will make for great photos, and you’ll have around 20 minutes to explore the area.

5. Lad Koh Viewpoint

The Lad Koh viewpoint offers panoramic views of the island’s coastline, and you’ll have around 20 minutes to take in the views and snap some photos.

6. Wat Khunaram

The final stop on the tour is Wat Khunaram, a temple that is home to the famous mummified monk, Loung Pordaeng. The monk passed away over 40 years ago, and his body has been kept in a glass case ever since. You’ll have around 20 minutes to explore the temple and learn about the monk’s life and death. Once the tour is over, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel, relaxed, and ready to plan the rest of your Koh Samui adventure.

What’s Included in the Tour

The tour includes bottled water, hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only), and transport by air-conditioned minivan.

What’s Not Included in the Tour

Food and drinks are not included, unless specified in the tour itinerary. Lunch is also not included, so be sure to pack some snacks or bring cash for lunch at the market.

Booking the Tour

Booking the Koh Samui Round the Island Sightseeing Tour is easy. Simply visit the Viator website and book your tour online. The tour costs $26.66 per person, and you can select your preferred pickup location and time.

Book Your Tour Now

The Koh Samui Round the Island Sightseeing Tour is a great way to explore the island’s top attractions and get a taste of local culture. Whether you’re a budget traveler or short on time, this tour is perfect for you. So what are you waiting for? Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure on Koh Samui.

Frequently Asked Questions about Koh Samui

Koh Samui is an island in Thailand known for its white-sand beaches, luxury resorts, and world-class restaurants. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip to this idyllic destination.

1. What is the best time to visit Koh Samui?

The best time to visit Koh Samui is from December to April. During this period, the weather is drier, and the water is clear blue which makes it an ideal time for swimming, watersports and beach activities. However, this is also peak season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. Alternatively, if you want to avoid the crowds, you can visit during the monsoon season from May to November.

2. How do I get to Koh Samui?

You can get to Koh Samui by either taking a flight, bus or ferry. Koh Samui has its own airport, which offers multiple flights per day from Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai. You can also take a bus or taxi from Bangkok to Surat Thani, and then take a ferry to Koh Samui.

3. What are some popular attractions in Koh Samui?

Koh Samui has numerous attractions that cater to all kinds of travelers. Some popular attractions include:

• Big Buddha Temple
• Na Muang Waterfalls
• Fisherman’s Village
• Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks (Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks)
• Ang Thong National Marine Park

4. What are some popular outdoor activities on the island?

Koh Samui has a variety of outdoor activities to offer, including:

• Watersports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, kitesurfing, wakeboarding and jet skiing
• Island hopping and exploring hidden beaches
• Jungle trekking and waterfall tours
• Yoga and wellness retreats
• Golfing and other sports

5. What is street food like in Koh Samui?

Street food is abundant in Koh Samui, and it is one of the best ways to experience the local cuisine. Some popular dishes to try are:

• Pad Thai
• Som Tum (Spicy Green Papaya Salad)
• Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup)
• Massaman Curry
• Mango Sticky Rice

6. What is the local currency in Koh Samui?

The local currency in Koh Samui is Thai Baht (THB). Major credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are accepted in most tourist areas and upscale restaurants and hotels. However, it’s recommended to carry some cash when exploring local markets and street vendors.

7. What are some accommodations options in Koh Samui?

Koh Samui offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. Some popular options include:

• Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort
• Banyan Tree Samui
• Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui
• SALA Samui Choengmon Beach Resort
• Bo Phut Resort and Spa

8. Is Koh Samui safe to visit?

Koh Samui is a generally safe destination for tourists. However, it’s still recommended to take precautions such as using a safe or locker to store valuable items and not leaving belongings unattended on the beach.

9. What is the local culture like in Koh Samui?

The local culture in Koh Samui is heavily influenced by Buddhism. It’s important to respect local customs and dress appropriately when visiting temples (cover your shoulders and knees). Thai people are generally friendly and hospitable, making it easy for travelers to enjoy their stay on the island.

10. What are some travel tips for visiting Koh Samui?

Some travel tips to keep in mind when visiting Koh Samui include:

• Respect local customs and dress appropriately when visiting religious sites
• Use sunscreen and insect repellent, as the island can get quite hot and mosquitoes are a common problem
• Bargain prices when shopping at street markets, but be respectful and reasonable
• Carry cash for local markets and street vendors
• Rent a scooter or car to explore the island at your own pace

Book Your Tour Now

Koh Samui is a beautiful destination that offers something for everyone. From stunning beaches to delicious local cuisine and a variety of outdoor activities, this island has it all. With this FAQ, we hope that you are better prepared for your trip to Koh Samui and can make the most of your time on this tropical paradise.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a tropical paradise located in the Gulf of Thailand. It is the second-largest island in the country and is known for its palm-fringed beaches, coconut groves, lush mountains, and warm, clear waters. The island offers a wide range of attractions and activities for tourists to enjoy. In this post, we will share some tips on how to spend your time as a tourist in Koh Samui.

1. Explore the Beaches

Koh Samui is famous for its stunning, white-sand beaches. Some of the most popular ones include Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach, Bophut Beach, and Choeng Mon Beach. Each beach has its unique charm and atmosphere, offering a range of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, snorkelling, and kayaking. Make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and a towel.

2. Visit the Temples

Koh Samui has several beautiful temples that are worth a visit. One of the most famous ones is Wat Phra Yai, also known as the Big Buddha Temple. The temple features a 12-meter-tall bronze Buddha statue, which can be seen from miles away. Another popular temple is Wat Plai Laem, known for its striking statues and intricate architecture. Make sure to dress appropriately by covering your shoulders and knees when entering the temples.

3. Take a Thai Cooking Class

Thai cuisine is famous worldwide for its flavourful and aromatic dishes. Taking a cooking class in Koh Samui is an excellent way to learn about Thai cuisine, ingredients, and cooking techniques. Many cooking schools offer half-day or full-day classes, where you will learn to make traditional Thai dishes such as Pad Thai, Tom Yum Soup, and Green Curry. Best of all, you get to sample your creations afterward!

4. Visit the Night Markets

Koh Samui has several night markets where you can enjoy local street food, live music, and shopping. The Fisherman’s Village Walking Street in Bophut is a popular night market that takes place every Friday. You can find a range of Thai street food, handmade souvenirs, and live music. The Chaweng Night Market is another popular market that takes place every night and offers a range of food, drinks, and shopping options.

5. Visit the Coconut Plantations

Koh Samui is known for its coconut plantations, which occupy more than a third of the island. You can visit a plantation to learn about how coconuts are grown, harvested, and processed into various products such as coconut oil, coconut milk, and coconut sugar. You can also try fresh coconut water straight from the husk, which is a refreshing treat on a hot day.

6. Go Island Hopping

Koh Samui is surrounded by several smaller islands that are worth exploring. You can take a day trip to these islands to enjoy snorkelling, diving, and beach hopping. The most popular islands are Koh Tao, Koh Phangan and Ang Thong Marine National Park. Ang Thong Marine National Park is a group of 42 islands, offering crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and abundant marine life.

7. Relax with a Spa Treatment

Koh Samui offers several world-class spas that offer a range of treatments such as massages, facials, and body scrubs. You can choose from traditional Thai spa treatments or international spa services. Most spas offer a tranquil and relaxing environment with stunning sea views, making it a perfect place to unwind and de-stress after a long day of exploring.

Book Your Tour Now

Koh Samui offers a range of activities and attractions that cater to different tourists’ preferences. Whether you are looking to relax on the beach, explore temples or indulge in Thai food and culture, Koh Samui has something to offer. Use this guide to help plan your itinerary and make the most out of your visit to Koh Samui.