Koh Samui, the idyllic Thai island, offers a chance to explore its captivating local culture and natural wonders. This unique tour promises a comprehensive exploration, taking visitors on a journey through a traditional village, a cooking class, and an encounter with gentle giants at an elephant sanctuary. With an expert guide by their side, travelers can enjoy the island’s rich history, culinary delights, and the awe-inspiring presence of these magnificent creatures. This excursion not only provides a glimpse into Koh Samui‘s charm but also leaves a lasting impression on those seeking a truly authentic and unforgettable experience.
This experience made our list of the 4 Best Tours In Surat Thani City.
Key Points
• This 7-hour excursion in Koh Samui offers a unique combination of cultural experiences, including a guided village tour, Thai dessert cooking class, and visits to Laem Sor Pagoda and Secret Buddha Garden.
• The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, an English-speaking guide, full insurance, drinks, snacks, and an authentic Thai vegetarian lunch with panoramic views.
• Highlights of the tour include learning about Samui’s history, observing coconut handicraft processes, and feeding elephants at the Samui Elephant Home.
• The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, and comfortable shoes, a camera, and a passport copy are recommended.
• The tour offers a ‘Reserve now, pay later’ option, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Koh Samui Tour & Elephant Sanctuary offers an activity-packed 7-hour excursion priced from €60.46 per person. This tour features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.
Travelers will enjoy hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, full insurance, drinks, snacks, and a delicious lunch.
The tour includes a range of cultural experiences like a guided village tour, a Thai dessert cooking class, and visits to local landmarks such as the Laem Sor Pagoda and Secret Buddha Garden.
The highlight is an immersive experience at the Samui Elephant Home, where participants can interact with and learn about the care of these magnificent creatures.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Surat Thani City.
Itinerary Details
The tour kicks off with a pickup from guests’ hotels and a 1-hour journey by Jeep/SUV to the Ban Bo Ran Village.
Here, they’ll enjoy a guided tour and participate in a cooking class to learn the art of making traditional Thai desserts using local ingredients.
Next, they’ll visit the Laem Sor Pagoda for a brief photo stop and sightseeing.
The tour then moves on to a traditional village, where guests can explore the guided tour, do some shopping, and take in the sights.
After this, they’ll head to a local restaurant for an authentic Thai vegetarian lunch with beautiful panoramic views.
The final stop is the Secret Buddha Garden, where they’ll take a guided tour and admire the scenic vistas.
Highlights and Experiences
Guests can explore an ancient house and learn about Samui’s history during the guided tour at Ban Bo Ran Village. They’ll also have the opportunity to observe the intricate processes of coconut handicraft and participate in a Thai dessert cooking class using local ingredients.
At the Secret Buddha Garden, visitors will be amazed by the numerous statues nestled within the lush, scenic surroundings. Afterward, they’ll enjoy an authentic Thai vegetarian lunch with panoramic views.
The highlight of the tour is the visit to Samui Elephant Home, where guests can participate in feeding the elephants and learn about their care and conservation efforts.
Included Activities
Beyond exploring the scenic Secret Buddha Garden and indulging in an authentic Thai lunch, the tour includes several other immersive activities that allow guests to engage with the local culture and environment.
Visitors will participate in a Thai dessert cooking class, where they’ll learn to craft traditional sweets using local ingredients. They’ll also observe the intricate processes behind coconut handicraft production, gaining insights into ancient local traditions.
At the Ban Bo Ran Village, guests embark on a guided tour, uncovering the history and daily life of the community.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information
This tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments. Participants should bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and a passport copy. Full insurance is included, and hotel pickup and drop-off are provided. An English-speaking guide accompanies the group throughout the experience, and a drink, snack, and authentic Thai vegetarian lunch are all part of the tour.
The tour includes the following highlights:
-
Explore ancient houses and learn about Samui’s history.
-
Participate in a Thai dessert cooking class using local ingredients.
-
Observe the processes of coconut handicraft.
-
Visit the Secret Buddha Garden with numerous statues.
Transportation and Pickup
Upon pickup, guests are transported via a Jeep or SUV for the approximately 1-hour drive to the various tour destinations. The transportation is included in the tour price, ensuring a seamless experience.
The vehicle offers comfortable seating and easy access, making it suitable for the diverse tour itinerary. Throughout the journey, the English-speaking guide provides insightful commentary, sharing their knowledge of the local culture and history.
Pickup is available from the guest’s hotel, allowing for a convenient start to the day’s activities. With full insurance coverage, travelers can enjoy the tour with peace of mind, focusing on the immersive experiences that await them.
Customer Ratings and Reviews
The tour has received overwhelmingly positive customer reviews, with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 37 reviews.
Reviewers highlighted the tour’s memorable and enriching experiences, praising the unique cultural activities that immersed them in the local way of life. The tour guide and driver also received high marks for their responsiveness and attentiveness.
Customers particularly enjoyed:
-
The delicious and authentic Thai vegetarian lunch with panoramic views.
-
Participating in feeding the elephants and learning about their care.
-
The scenic beauty of the Secret Buddha Garden and its numerous statues.
-
The opportunity to observe the coconut handicraft processes.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Travelers can easily reserve this tour and pay nothing today, as the platform offers a ‘reserve now, pay later’ option.
Customers also enjoy the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which entitles them to a full refund. This ensures travelers can book with confidence, knowing they won’t lose money if their plans change.
Once booked, the tour operator will arrange pickup from the customer’s hotel, so there’s no need to worry about transportation. Guests simply need to show their booking confirmation to the driver upon pickup.
With these convenient booking and cancellation policies, travelers can focus on anticipating the exciting activities and experiences that await them on this Koh Samui tour and elephant sanctuary visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food or Drinks on the Tour?
No, guests are generally not permitted to bring their own food or drinks on tours. The tour package typically includes meals, snacks, and beverages as part of the experience. Bringing outside items may not be allowed for logistical or liability reasons.
Is There an Age Limit or Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?
There is no age limit or minimum age requirement for this tour. Children are welcome to participate, though parental supervision is recommended. The tour activities are suitable for all ages, with options to accommodate different needs and abilities.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Customers can typically request customizations to the tour itinerary, subject to availability and guide approval. The tour operator aims to accommodate reasonable requests to enhance the overall experience within the allotted time.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Hidden Costs During the Tour?
The tour price includes all stated activities, transportation, meals, and entrance fees. There are no additional fees or hidden costs during the tour. Customers only need to cover personal expenses and gratuities if desired.
Are There Any Safety Precautions or Guidelines for the Elephant Sanctuary Visit?
The tour includes safety precautions for the elephant sanctuary visit. Participants are briefed on proper etiquette and safety guidelines to ensure an enjoyable and responsible wildlife experience. Proper attire and footwear are required for guests’ protection.
Recap
Koh Samui’s unique local tour offers an immersive experience that combines cultural exploration, culinary delights, and an encounter with majestic elephants.
Visitors can learn about the island’s history, participate in a Thai dessert cooking class, and enjoy a vegetarian lunch with panoramic views.
This 7-hour excursion, led by an attentive English-speaking guide, provides a comprehensive and memorable way to experience the charm and natural wonders of this idyllic Thai island.
You can check if your dates are available here: