Koh Samui is the second biggest island in Thailand.
My suggestion
Get out of the city by hiring a scooter to explore the island independently!
Romain Beuvart
Seasoned Traveller
4
Koh Samui is the main island on the Gulf of Thailand side of the country and is very popular with tourists as a beach destination.
My suggestion
Avoid Chaweng Beach as it's noisier and busier than others. If you rent a vehicle, watch out for the Thai traffic, which is sometimes dangerous, and for other tourists not taking enough care.
The Khong Chiam region is still largely unaffected by tourism and, for those willing to explore it, offers spectacular scenery and the promise of peaceful days spent well away from the noise and chaos of the urban environment. With its waterfalls, cliffs and rock paintings, Pha Taem is the kind of place you simply never tire of exploring.
Elephant rides have become a major concern in many locations, but are still offered by a handful of so-called "sanctuaries" with the proposition to get close to the exotic and majestic animal. Elephant rides are offered on every street corner and Westerners have little knowledge about the cruel methods to succeed in training these enormous animals.
To set the scene for you, imagine 2,188 km² covered by 80% forest and populated with more than 800 animal species roaming completely free. Add streams, waterfalls and a mountain range amongst 2,000 plant species. Classify it all as a UNESCO world heritage site and you have the Khao Yai national park.