Pig Island Koh Samui Day Trip: Everything You Need To Know
Experience the ultimate snorkelling adventure on Pig Island Koh Samui. Explore crystal clear waters and swim with adorable pigs. Read on for our pick of the best tours!
One of the most unique experiences you can have on Koh Samui is swimming with pigs on Pig island! Koh Samui is a popular tourist destination and one tour we always do when we visit the island is a tour to Pig Island.
Pig Island near Koh Samui is a beautiful island located off the southern coast of Koh Samui, Thailand. The island is a popular tourist destination, known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and most importantly, its adorable inhabitants – the swimming pigs!
Pig Island offers an experience like no other, making it a great addition to any itinerary when visiting Koh Samui. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family and friends, spending time with the cute pigs on Pig Beach will surely be a highlight of your trip.
So if you’re looking for something unique and fun to do in Koh Samui, make sure to add Pig Island to your list of must-visit destinations. You won’t regret it!
Please Note: All prices are quoted in the local currency THB (Thai Baht). To easily convert prices to your currency, we use xe Currency Converter.
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How Do You Get To Pig Island in Koh Samui?
Getting to Pig Island near Koh Samui is an adventure in itself. The island is only accessible by boat, which adds to the excitement of visiting this unique destination. There are several tour operators that offer day trips to the island, so visitors can hire a private long-tail boat or join a group tour from various locations such as Mae Nam, Bophut, and Choeng Mon beaches.
The journey from Koh Samui to Pig Island takes around 30 minutes by speedboat or 45 minutes by long-tail boat. Visitors can choose between these two options depending on their preference and budget. Speedboats are faster but more expensive than long-tail boats.
Once visitors arrive at Pig Island, they will be greeted with stunning views of the surrounding sea and lush greenery. There is an entrance fee of 50THB / person (cash only) to Koh Madsum that all visitors are required to pay upon arrival. This fee goes towards maintaining the island’s natural beauty and preserving its wildlife.
It’s important to note that Pig Island is a popular tourist destination, so it’s recommended to book in advance to secure a spot on a tour. Tour prices typically include transportation from Koh Samui, snorkelling equipment for exploring the underwater world around the island, and lunch.
Option 1: Private Long-Tail Boat
For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, want to experience traditional Thai transportation methods, or prefer privacy and flexibility, hiring a private long-tail boat is your best option. These boats have an open-air design that allows passengers to feel the sea breeze and take in the scenery at a slower pace.
You can negotiate with the boat operator regarding the price and schedule that suits your preference. The cost varies depending on the distance, duration, and number of passengers. It usually ranges from 2,000 to 5,000 THB per hour for up to six people.
Moreover, hiring a private long-tail boat allows you to customize your itinerary according to your liking. You can decide how much time you want to spend on each island and which activities you want to do. You can also avoid crowds and have more space for yourself.
However, there are some disadvantages of hiring a private long-tail boat as well. First, it can be expensive if you are traveling alone or in a small group. Second, finding a reliable and trustworthy operator might be challenging since there are many scams and frauds in the area.
When negotiating with the boat operator regarding the price, be polite but firm. Do not accept their first offer since it is usually higher than what they expect to get. Try to find out their bottom line and work your way up from there. Also, be aware of any hidden fees such as fuel surcharge or entrance fee that might be added later on.
Top Tip: Do not pay the full cost upfront to the owner of the long-tail boat. Instead, pay half when you first board, and the remaining money upon completion of your tour.
Option 2: Group Tour
If you prefer convenience and affordability over privacy and flexibility, joining a group tour is your best option. There are many tour operators that offer day trips or half-day trips to Pig Island from Koh Samui. These are normally combined with a snorkelling tour to Koh Tan.
The cost of joining a group tour usually ranges from 1,000 to 3,000 THB per person depending on the package inclusion such as lunch, insurance, snorkelling equipment rental fee etc. It is recommended that you book in advance since most tours require a minimum number of participants.
However, there are some disadvantages of joining a group tour as well. First, you have limited time and freedom since you have to follow the itinerary set by the tour company. Second, you might not enjoy some activities or destinations included in the package.
Recommended Koh Tan and Pig Island Tours in Koh Samui
We have visited Pig Island with a number of tour operators over the years, so read on for the top 2 companies we personally recommend!
#1 Best Tour for Pig Island: Pig Island Trip from Koh Samui by Speedboat
BOOK THIS TOUR NOW: PIG ISLAND TRIP FROM KOH SAMUI
⭐RATING: 4 Out of 5 Stars – With more than 156 positive reviews! | TOUR DURATION: approx. 5 Hours
Here’s Why You’ll Love It!
You will visit both Koh Tan and Koh Madsum with activities including swimming, snorkelling, kayaking in the crystal clear waters, and of course, feeding and swimming with the pigs!
The Pig Island from Koh Samui by Speedboat tour includes:
✅ Hotel pick up and drop off in an air-conditioned minivan
✅ Use of Snorkelling equipment
✅ Kayaking
✅ Water
✅ Al Fresco Lunch
✅ Local friendly guide – English
✅ Full Insurance
✅ Use of Sunbeds
Reviews From Past Guests
Very well organized trip! They were prompt picking up from resort. The guides were extremely helpful and knowledgeable. There were 9 tiny piglets born last week that were adorable! Lots of pigs! Worth the trip! – Mary_M (see more reviews here)
Loved all of this trip, the pigs were the highlight but the island itself was beautiful and relaxing. I celebrated my 50th birthday here so have great memories. The island was not overcrowded with people so it was great. – Jane_A (see more reviews here)
Absolutely brilliant experience! Sao and the team were great fun and informative. Loved the food and drinks, and overall was better than we expected! We were so well looked after, even with a few medical issues in the way! The island is beautiful, and so are the pigs! And the sunset and snorkelling was fantastic, we felt so safe! Thank you – Hannah_T (see more reviews here)
CHECK AVAILABILITY AND PRICES NOW!
#2 Pig Feeding, Kayaking, Snorkelling Trip at Pig Island by Speedboat from Koh Samui
BOOK THIS TOUR NOW: PIG FEEDING, KAYAKING & SNORKELLING TRIP AT PIG ISLAND
⭐RATING: 3.5 Out of 5 Stars – With more than 28 reviews! | TOUR DURATION: approx. 6-7 Hours
Here’s Why You’ll Love It!
You will enjoy snorkelling and kayaking at Koh Tan for approximately 1 hour. You will then be taken to Koh Madsum where you can see the pigs, kayak, swim or relax on the beach for 3 hours. Lunch will also be on Koh Madsum.
The Pig Feeding, Kayaking and Snorkelling Trip at Pig Island from Koh Samui by Speedboat tour includes:
✅ Hotel transfer from Lamai, Butterfly Garden, Chaweng, Bangpor, Maenam, Bophut, Cheongmon, Bangrak
✅ Use of Snorkelling equipment & life jacket
✅ Kayaking
✅ Use of Sunbeds
✅ Lunch / Dinner
✅ Soft Drinks & Water
✅ Fresh Fruit
✅ Local friendly guide – English
✅ Full Accident Insurance
Reviews From Past Guests
Tour was amazing 🤩 the trip out/back was really good and the pigs were super cute! The tour guides are also good and they supply you lunch as well if it’s in the tour program! The snorkeling was also good with clear water and nice fish! – Benjamin_N (see more reviews here)
The best boat trip I’ve had in Thailand (and I’ve tried a lot!). Driver arrived on time and was very friendly. The speedboat was great and the guys leading the trip were very helpful and kind. My guide spoke great English and offered to take pictures for me all day which was so nice as I was alone. The lunch was amazing, one of the best meals I’ve had in the country!
Usually the boat tours give you a small box of fried rice but on the STUNNING pig island, they set up tom yum, Tom kha, lots of fresh stir fried vegetables, rice, pineapple and watermelon… So good! Snorkelling was great as so many fish on the coral! Pig island was amazing and kayaking etc also…. Just a perfect day and great value!:) – Carly_S (see more reviews here)
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Best Reasons to Visit Pig Island Near Koh Samui
There are a number of reasons we enjoy visiting Pig Island. From interacting with the pigs, to swimming and snorkelling in the beautiful waters, there is something for everyone on this day tour!
Reason 1: Feeding The Pigs
One of the main highlights of visiting Pig Island is getting up close and personal with the friendly pigs that call the island home. Visitors can purchase food from vendors on the island to feed the pigs, which is a fun and interactive experience for all ages. The pigs are accustomed to human interaction and will approach visitors eagerly for treats.
Reason 2: Swimming With The Pigs
Another unique activity available on Pig Island is swimming with the pigs in their natural habitat. The pigs are excellent swimmers and enjoy cooling off in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island. Visitors can join them for a refreshing swim and even snap some memorable photos while they’re at it.
Guidelines For Interacting With The Pigs
When visiting Koh Madsum, it’s important to follow guidelines for interacting with the pigs to ensure their safety and wellbeing. Visitors should avoid chasing or harassing the pigs and refrain from feeding them anything other than approved food purchased on the island.
It’s also important to respect the natural habitat of the pigs by not littering or disturbing any wildlife on the island. Following these guidelines will help ensure that visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience while also protecting the welfare of the pigs and their environment.
Reason 3: Snorkelling
In addition to interacting with the pigs, visitors can also explore the beautiful underwater world surrounding Pig Island by snorkelling. The waters around the island are teeming with colourful fish, corals, and other marine life, making it an ideal spot for snorkelling enthusiasts.
Reason 4: Go Kayaking or Paddleboarding
For those who prefer to stay dry but still want to take in all that Koh Madsum Koh Samui has to offer, there are plenty of opportunities for exploring its surrounding waters. Visitors can rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore nearby coves and beaches dotting the coastline.
Reason 5: Enjoy A Relaxing Beach Day
If you’re not into snorkelling, kayaking or SUP (stand-up paddle boarding), you can still enjoy the calm waters by swimming or simply lounging on the soft white sand. The beach is relatively quiet and peaceful, making it an excellent spot for some much-needed relaxation and sun bathing.
Supporting Sustainability on Pig Island
Interacting with and feeding Pig Island’s adorable pigs is an experience that is a unique, and one that has gained a lot of attention and love from people all over the world. However, as with any tourist attraction, there are concerns about sustainability and responsible tourism practices.
Fortunately, Mr Kitt, the owner of Pig Island near Koh Samui, along with GoJo Tours, has taken steps to promote sustainable practices and ensure that visitors can continue to enjoy this beloved destination for years to come.
One way that Gojo has promoted sustainability on Pig Island is by encouraging visitors not to bring their own food for the pigs, and instead relying on the host’s offerings of tasty corn and watermelon treats. This practice ensures that the pigs are getting proper nutrition. It also gives visitors an opportunity to take an active role in supporting the pigs’ well-being.
The benefits of promoting sustainability on Pig Island extend beyond just preserving natural resources or protecting animal welfare. Sustainable practices help create more stable economies by ensuring long-term viability of local businesses like Pig Island in Koh Samui. By taking care of our environment today, we can ensure that future generations will be able to enjoy it too.
Best Time to Visit Koh Samui and The Islands
Another factor that affects your experience on Pig Island is weather conditions. The best time of year to visit this island paradise depends on what kind of weather conditions you prefer. If you like sunny days with clear blue skies and warm temperatures, then visiting between December and April would be ideal for you.
On the other hand, if you prefer cooler temperatures with the possibility of occasional rain showers, then visiting between May and October would be better suited for your preferences. Keep in mind that even during the rainy season; there are still plenty of sunny days where swimming with pigs becomes an unforgettable experience.
However, it’s important to note that during the monsoon / rainy season, from late October until mid-December, heavy rains can occur frequently causing the sea to become rough and unsafe for swimming. During monsoon season, it’s best to avoid visiting Pig Island as the weather conditions can be unpredictable.
Where to Stay When Visiting Pig Island Near Koh Samui
If you are planning a visit to Pig Island, then the best place to stay is on Koh Samui, as there are many accommodation options in Koh Samui to suit all budgets. For those looking for a luxury experience, there are 5-star resorts with all the amenities and activities you could want.
For those on a tight budget, there are hostels and guesthouses which offer basic but clean and comfortable rooms. There is something to suit everyone in Koh Samui when it comes to accommodation.
When choosing accommodation in Koh Samui, it is important to consider what kind of holiday you are looking for. If you want a relaxed and lazy holiday by the pool, then a resort would be ideal. However, if you are looking to explore everything that Koh Samui has to offer, then a guesthouse or hostel is ideal as you will probably be spending very little time in your room anyway.
Where is the Best Place to Stay in Koh Samui
Chaweng Beach area is one of the most popular areas to stay in Koh Samui due to the range of accommodation options, restaurants, nightlife and shopping opportunities.
Bophut Beach and Fisherman’s Village is ideal for couples and families. This area is more expensive than the areas in Koh Samui, but the restaurants, bars and shopping is a little more upmarket too!
Lamai Beach area is more relaxed than Chaweng and Bophut, but the beach here is spectacular! There are also accommodation options here to suit all budgets and a huge variety of restaurants.
Other areas of the island also offer various types of accommodation include Choeng Mon Beach, Bang Rak, Maenam and Bang Po.
📍 Best Budget Accommodation in Koh Samui (Up to 30 USD)
- Phannarai House is located just a 4-minute walk from Lamai Beach, and all rooms have AC, a TV, free Wi-Fi, and the property also features an outdoor swimming pool.
- Marine Chaweng Beach Resort offers air-conditioned bungalows with a balcony right by Chaweng Beach. You will love its central location in the heart of Chaweng close to all the action!
- Samui Zenity is located just outside of Maenam but has magnificent mountain views, a large well-equipped shared kitchen and swimming pool. There is a restaurant and bar onsite, however, a free shuttle service to and from Maenam Beach is also offered to all guests.
📍 Best Mid-Range Accommodation in Koh Samui (30 USD to 100 USD)
- Three Trees Samui Resort – Sarocha Villa is nestled amongst tropical gardens offering great views of Lamai Beach. Rooms have a private balcony, AC, cable TV and free Wi-Fi.
- Baan Yaimai Boutique Samui is just a 4-minute walk to Bophut Beach and 2-minute walk to Fisherman Village. The rooms are spacious with king beds, AC, and a private terrace.
- Moon Cottage is a great place to stay in Choeng Mon featuring modern bungalows and an outdoor swimming pool. Each bungalow has a TV, AC and private plunge pool.
📍 Best Luxury Accommodation in Koh Samui (100 USD and Up)
- Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui offers world-class service in a quiet oasis on Laem Yai Bay on the island’s northwest tip. Your room features a private infinity pool private bar and magnificent views of the Gulf of Siam.
- Ampersan Resort in Bophut has all the amenities you would expect from a 5-star resort including a swimming pool, fitness centre and a restaurant serving Mediterranean, Mexican and Middle Eastern cuisine. The room rate also includes a daily a la carte or continental breakfast.
- CHUZ Villas Samui are conveniently located just a 2-minute walk to Lamai Beach and a variety of restaurants. Each room has AC, a seating area, satellite TV, kitchenette and dining area, along with a private balcony.
FAQs – Pig Island Koh Samui
Where is Pig Island in Samui?
Pig Island, or Koh Madsum, is a small, island located approximately 45 minutes off the coast of Koh Samui in South Thailand. This tiny island is a popular destination for tourists, especially those looking for a unique experience.
What is Pig Island called in Koh Samui?
Pig Island in Koh Samui is known by the locals in Thai as Koh Madsum. You may also see it spelt as ‘Koh Mudsum’ when looking at tours.
How much does it cost to go to Pig Island Thailand?
The cost of visiting Pig Island Thailand depends on the time of year and type of boat transportation you choose. Prices range anywhere from 1,500 THB to 5,000 THB, but overall, most find the cost to be very reasonable.
Are there still pigs on Pig Island?
Yes, there are still pigs on Pig Island, and when we there last in April 2023, there was a family of five that were happily roaming amongst the tourists looking for treats.
Can you go to Pig Beach without a tour?
Technically, you cannot visit Pig Island in Koh Samui without going on a tour. However, if you are looking at more independent travel, your best bet is to hire a private longtail boat for the day.
In Summary – Is Pig Island in Koh Samui Worth Visiting?
Thailand is one of our favourite countries in South-East Asia and we have been visiting here annually for more than 20 years. Not only is Thai food delicious and the Thais super friendly and smiley, there are so many must see islands (you must add Phi Phi to your list!) and landmarks in Thailand, and lots of unique experiences!
So, is Pig Island worth visiting? We think it is one of the must-visit destinations on Koh Samui for anyone who loves nature and animals. The island’s unique attraction of swimming with the pigs is an experience that you will never forget. It’s a perfect way to spend a day in Koh Samui if you’re looking for something different from the usual beach activities.
Getting to Pig Island near Koh Samui is easy, and there are various transportation options available. We recommend this Pig Island, Koh Samui Tour as it allows you to see both Koh Tan and Koh Madsum in one trip, and the overall experience provided is great.
Apart from visiting the pigs, there are other things to do on Koh Madsum. You can go snorkelling or kayaking around the island’s coral reefs or relax on its beautiful beaches.
If you’re looking for the best day trips from Koh Samui with plenty to do, look no further than visiting Pig Island. This little island has something for everyone – from snorkelling and sunbathing to swimming with pigs. What more could you ask for?
Are you planning a holiday to Thailand or Koh Samui? Have you been on a tour to Pig Island near Koh Samui, or have we missed any important information we should add to this list?
TRIP PLANNERS FOR THAILAND: RELATED BLOG POSTS
Want more info to help you plan your Thailand holiday? Check out all the articles we’ve written on travel in Thailand below and continue planning your trip.
- 25 Of The Best Things To Do Phi Phi Island
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Essential Travel Planning Resources for Thailand
These are our favourite companies to use when we travel to Thailand. They consistently turn up the best deals and offer great customer service, and overall, are better than their competitors. These companies are always our starting point when we need to book a flight, hotel, tour, transportation etc.
Book Your Flight:
The best and easiest way to find cheap flights is to use Skyscanner or Kiwi. They compare all of the available prices across every airline to help you compare flights in one place.
Book Accommodation:
In Thailand, whether you are looking to book a hostel, guest house, hotel or resort, you’ll always find the best deals on Agoda. We always search using the map feature to find accommodation in the best location. If we are staying for a month or longer in a destination, we also search for monthly deals on Airbnb and Booking.com. For hostel bookings, we compare reviews on Hostelworld, then check other booking sites to compare prices.
Book a Tour:
We mostly travel independently, however, some places are better to visit with a guided tour. We use both GetYourGuide and Viator to find great deals on tours in Thailand.
Book Transportation:
Rome2Rio is a great planning tool which allows us to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. From there, we book our transportation through 12Go.asia to save both money and time. We believe the best way to explore Thailandis by motorbike or bicycle, and BikesBooking.com offer the most competitive prices. If you are planning a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com to find the best deals.
Book Travel Insurance:
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft and cancellations. We never travel without it as we have had to use it several times in the past. We have been using 1Cover for the past 4 years, however, we also recommend World Nomads as many of our fulltime travel friends swear by them.
Always Carry With You:
When travelling in Thailand, we always carry a daypack for excursions, and the Lonely Planet Guide!
Ready to Book Your Trip?
Check out our Travel Resources page for the companies we use and recommend to plan and book our travels. Through lots of trial and error over the years, these are the best!
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