Koh Samui: Island Hopping Adventure in Coral and Pig Island

Koh Samui: Island Hopping Adventure in Coral and Pig Island

If you’re looking for a day packed with marine life, adorable pigs, and scenic beaches, this Koh Samui tour offers a well-rounded experience for around $45. Starting from Thong Krut Pier, you’ll hop between three stunning islands—Pig Island (Koh Madsum), Koh Tean, and Koh Madsum—each offering unique sights, from wild pigs to colorful coral reefs. The trip lasts about 7 hours, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and relaxing.

What we love most about this tour is the combination of wildlife encounters—like the playful pigs of Koh Madsum—and the chance to explore varied landscapes in a single day. The small group size (limited to 9 people) means you’ll get a more personal experience, with attentive guides who genuinely want you to enjoy your time. Another highlight? The included delicious Thai lunch on Koh Tean, offering a genuine taste of local flavors.

One thing to keep in mind is that weather conditions can affect the itinerary—sea storms or strong winds might shorten or shift plans. Also, if you’re prone to seasickness, prepare accordingly, since the boat rides are around 4-5 hours total. This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic, eco-conscious experiences and enjoy active, social days out. It’s ideal for small groups, families, or solo travelers eager to see a mix of nature, wildlife, and local culture.

Key Points

Small group size ensures a more personal and relaxed experience.
Wild pigs on Koh Madsum are a major highlight, especially for animal lovers.
Snorkeling and kayaking add interactive fun and are included in the price.
Eco-conscious approach, including water in glass bottles and carbon offsetting, appeals to environmentally-aware travelers.
Delicious Thai lunch offers a taste of local cuisine mid-day.
Flexible itinerary depending on weather—your guide may adjust plans for safety and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Island Hopping Experience

Starting from Thong Krut Pier, the tour kicks off early with hotel pickup—convenient for those staying on Koh Samui. The small-group setting (up to nine participants) means you’re not just one in a crowd but part of a friendly, personalized adventure. The safety briefing lasts about 15 minutes before boarding a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that whisks you off to the pier. From there, you hop onto a boat that will be your home for most of the day.

The boat ride itself is a key part of the experience. Expect about 25 minutes to reach Koh Madsum, where the wild pigs roam freely. Several reviews emphasize how the early start is worth it—arriving before the crowds, giving you the best chance to interact with the adorable pigs without mass tourism. “We got there about 10 minutes before the crowds, which made all the difference,” says one traveler. Watching the pigs, including babies and their protective mums, is often described as a “highlight” and is surprisingly heartwarming.

Koh Madsum offers about 80 minutes for exploring and relaxing. You can stroll, take selfies, or simply sit on the beach and enjoy the scenery. The pigs are friendly, but guides remind visitors not to feed or touch them excessively, respecting their wild nature. Several reviews praise the guide’s attentiveness—giving food and water to the pigs, answering questions, and making the experience feel personal. The guide, often called Wan or Aody, is noted for being helpful, chatty, and knowledgeable, which enhances the trip’s enjoyment.

Next stop is Koh Tean—a larger island with pristine beaches perfect for snorkeling, swimming, or kayaking. The lunch here is included, set in a quiet, scenic spot. The reviews show high praise for the food: “The lunch was very yummy,” one guest notes. After eating, you can choose to relax on the beach, snorkel among colorful fish, or paddle around in the kayaks provided.

Snorkeling is especially popular despite some reports of coral bleaching, which is a reminder of how fragile these ecosystems are. Still, many travelers enjoy spotting schools of fish and the clear waters. Kayaking is another favorite; it offers a peaceful way to explore the coastline, often with guides happy to take photos or videos for you. About two hours are spent on Koh Tean, giving ample time to unwind.

The return journey involves a 30-minute boat ride back to Thong Krut Pier, with many reviews highlighting how the boat driver skillfully navigates choppy waters—“got us back through huge waves expertly,” as one user put it. The entire day wraps up with a transfer back to your accommodation, making it a hassle-free experience.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

For $45, you get quite a bit: boat fees, entrance fees, hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, snorkeling gear, kayaks, lunch, bottled water, and insurance. It’s a comprehensive package that offers excellent value—especially considering the small-group setting and the personalized attention.

However, extras like souvenirs or personal expenses are not included, so bring some cash for tips or snacks. Also, travelers should note that golf carts are limited on the islands, so walking or enjoying the scenery may involve some gentle strolling.

Authentic Experiences That Stand Out

This tour scores highly for its focus on sustainable tourism—water served in glass bottles and efforts to offset carbon emissions reflect a genuine commitment to responsible travel. Travelers repeatedly mention guides who go above and beyond, making the day memorable with their friendliness and knowledge.

Reviews consistently praise the quality of the lunch, describing it as delicious and filling, a perfect break from the active morning. The small group size means everyone gets time to ask questions, take photos, or simply relax without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

The wild pigs are the real stars—many mention how they loved seeing the pig families and even feeding the young ones. It’s a quirky experience, but one that feels authentic and fun for animal lovers.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and swimwear.
Pack a change of clothes if you plan to snorkel or kayak.
A towel and camera are essential for capturing the moments.
Cash is useful for tips or extras.
Keep in mind that weather can influence the schedule—if storms roll in, some activities may be shortened or shifted.
The boat rides last around 4-5 hours total, so brace for some splashes and a bit of sea spray—perfectly fun if you’re prepared.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you enjoy small-group adventures and want to explore Koh Samui’s diverse scenery without the crowds. Animal lovers will find the pig island especially charming, while snorkelers and kayakers will appreciate the chance to spend time in clear waters. It’s also well-suited for eco-conscious travelers, given the tour’s environmental efforts.

If you’re keen on a balanced mix of wildlife, scenery, and local flavor, with good value and attentive guides, this tour checks many boxes. It’s also a good choice for those new to island hopping, as the itinerary is straightforward but packed with memorable moments.

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FAQ

How long is this tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, including transportation, activities, and free time on each island.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included, but only from registered hotels or accommodations, not roadside locations or shopping malls.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, camera, and cash for any extras.

Can I participate if I don’t swim?
While swimming is optional, snorkeling and kayaking are available for those comfortable in the water. Non-swimmers might prefer relaxing on the beach.

How is the group size?
Limited to 9 participants, ensuring more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The itinerary is subject to change depending on weather conditions. Guides will adjust plans for safety and comfort.

Are the pigs tame and friendly?
The pigs are wild pigs but generally friendly. Guides advise not to feed or excessively touch them to protect their natural behavior.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a delicious Thai lunch is part of the tour, served on Koh Tean.

Are snorkeling gear and kayaks provided?
Yes, all snorkeling equipment and kayaks are included in the price.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Availability varies, so it’s best to check in advance. The tour offers flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

To sum it up, this Koh Samui island hopping tour provides a balanced mix of wildlife encounters, water activities, and scenic relaxation—all within a small-group setting that feels authentic and personal. It’s especially suited for animal lovers, eco-conscious travelers, and those looking for a full-day adventure that’s both fun and responsible. With friendly guides, tasty local food, and memorable stops, it’s a flexible way to see some of Koh Samui’s best-kept secrets.

You can check availability for your dates here: