The best things to do in Koh Samui include varied and interesting highlights that range from splendid natural features to manmade attractions. Beyond the gorgeous beaches where you can spend a day out under the tropical sun, there are attractive waterfalls and much more to explore. With a 4WD off-road ride through the largely untouched jungle and around the island, there's nothing to stop you from having a blast on Koh Samui!
Island Safari 4WD Jungle Tour
Join the Island Safari Jungle Full-Day 4X4 Jeep Tour! This popular full-day jungle safari jeep tour on Koh Samui will take you to some of the most famous attractions on the island. You can discover anything from mummified monks to the famous "Grandma and Grandpa" rocks, known locally as Hin Ta and Hin Yai. For those interested in religious imagery and architecture, the Big Buddha will impress, waterfalls viewpoints and nature are all included in this island tour.
1. Big Buddha - Wat Phra Yai
The Big Buddha on the northern coast of Koh Samui is one of Thailand's famous shrines and probably Samui's best-known landmark. The 12-metre-tall golden Buddha statue can be seen from several kilometres away. The Buddha figure sits in the Mara posture, depicting a time during Buddha's journey to enlightenment where he successfully subdued temptations and dangers thrust at him. The pose is a symbol of steadfastness, purity and enlightenment.
Inside the surrounding temple are many different shrines and other smaller Buddhas. There's also a small market selling a wide range of lucky charms and other souvenirs, alongside numerous food stalls.
2. Wat Plai Laem
Wat Plai Laem is a colourful and interesting Buddhist temple near the Big Buddha in the north of Koh Samui. The temple features very ornate decor and art, an 18-armed image of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy, and a large, white, Chinese Buddha set on a lake. The giant Guanyin statue is a towering white structure in the centre of the temple grounds. It forms an imposing and serene presence and a showcase of Koh Samui's strong Chinese heritage.
3. Hin Ta Hin Yai
The Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks are some fascinating rock formations at the southern end of Lamai Beach on Koh Samui. They've been a source of giggles and wonder on the island since they were discovered by the locals many years ago. Known as Grandpa (Ta) and Grandma (Yai ), the rocks look, respectively, like male and female genitalia.
A signboard near the rocks tells of the legend of an old couple by the name of Ta Kreng (Grandpa Kreng) and Yai Riem (Grandma Riem) who lived with their son in the southern province of Nakhon Si Thammarat. The views from the rocks and the area around them are spectacular, stretching across the sea to nearby islands
4. The Guan-Yu Shrine
The Guan-Yu Shrine is the most recent addition to the island's sightseeing attractions. Beginning of Chinese-Hainan in Koh Samui, Guan Yu constructs with 16 meter height bronze statue, the biggest in Thailand. The Shrine is a celebration of Chinese heritage and is dedicated to Guan Yu, a legendary warrior who died almost 2,000 years ago.
5. Na Muang Waterfalls
The Na Muang Waterfalls are among Samui's most picturesque waterfalls, though it's technically 2 consecutive falls. Its name refers to the massive purple rocks at the waterfalls. Rocks and tree roots form a natural staircase that leads to the base of Na Muang 1. A large natural pool sits under the waterfall. A ten minute walk further up the mountain leads to Samui's most beautiful waterfall, Na Muang 2.
6. Secret Buddha Garden
Secret Buddha Garden is a tranquil, sculpture-filled garden hidden high up in the hills in Koh Samui's interior. Thanks to its altitude, the unique site offers majestic views and an unusual collection of statues amid lush jungle surrounds. The gardens are a creation of an old Samui fruit farmer, Nim Thongsuk, who began erecting several statues and temples around his family's verdant land in 1976.
The statues depict several animals, deities and humans in various poses, including one of Khun Nim himself, sitting on a rock in a relaxed position. The garden has a waterfall and stream flowing through, all shaded by thick foliage.
This is a great pick for travelers interested in seeing a mix of natural wonders, temples, and shrines in a day. Avoid potential language barriers when figuring out local public transport, and instead, travel in a comfortable 4-wheel drive vehicle, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. The tour visits the Big Buddha Temple, Wat Plai Laem, Guan-Yu Shrine, the Secret Buddha Garden, Na Muang Waterfall, and lots more incredible scenery along the way.
Overview
Departure & Return
You will be provided with an exact pick-up time confirmation once your reservation is received. If you’re staying at private accommodation, please provide a contact number for the property you are staying at as soon as possible. Alternatively, allow the tour operator to speak to one of the staff members who work at the property. Please note that an address is insufficient to locate a property on Koh Samui.
Departure Time:
09:00am
Return Time:
17:00pm
After an action-packed day, your tour ends with drop-off at your hotel around 4.30pm all other participants of the tour will be dropped off along the way until the entire tour group has completely reached their accommodations.
Payment
Price and booking is provided by Viator
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
With a 4x4 off-road ride through the largely untouched jungle and around the island, there's nothing to stop you from having a blast on Koh Samui!
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