Overview
Adding a visit to an elephant camp will round out your experience on Ko Samui.
This island calls to everyone. Young and old, rich and poor, active and sedate - everyone who comes wants to stay.
As you approach the island, you will see the attraction of Ko Samui which has brought people of every nationality and age and income level. It is magnificent and will be hard to leave. It is the place to see a variety of special highlights and perhaps go out of your comfort zone.
Your Samui experience will begin at Wat Kunaram, where you will pay homage to the monk Loung Por Daeng who is mummified in a shrine on the island. Loung Por Daeng, the sacrosanct for native, died more than 20 years ago in a sitting position of meditation. His body shows few signs of any major decay. Far from being frightened by death, most Buddhist Thais are highly accepting of the end of life as the natural order of things and they view death as an opportunity to be reborn into a better place, one step closer to nirvana. Loung Pordang believed the same and his last act was meditation. If you wish to pass on this while others visit the site, you can think about the entertainment next on your list, observing the monkeys in the coconut trees.
Ready to move on to your next stop, it is time to experience a major part of the Thai culture, its relationship with elephants. At this camp you will have an intimate glimpse into the skills and training needed to care for these huge creatures in a positive fashion. It will be clear that those trainers care as much about their charges as you do. During your time at the camp, you can enjoy a ride on one of the elephants.
The refreshment stop at Na Muang Waterfall provides impressive views of the 30 meter cascade to a natural pool below. Local fresh fruits durain, rambutan, mangosteen, etc. are available during for purchase based on the season.
Your next destination is on the southern side of the island to see the marvelous yet strange natural formation of massive sculptures. They are called Hin Ta and Hin Yai (nicknamed Grand Ma and Grand Pa) and they do often create some embarrassed chuckles but you will determine that yourself.
Next up on this tropical visit is the Ladd Koh Viewpoint, which will familiarize your with the stunning island you are visiting. This panoramic view will highlight the famous Chaweng Beach, full of powdery white sand which contrasts with the clear blue seas and skies. At the "Big Buddha" you will meet a large statue of Lord Buddha as it dominates a hill top on the small island which can provide the best bird's eye view around.
If enough time remains, visit Nathon Local market where Samui local products can be found before returning to the ship.
- Please dress comfortably as this tour has some easy walking.
- Please note there is surcharge pricing for all National and New Year holidays. Contact ShoreTrips with any questions.
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You will need to provide your passport information at the time of the booking.Days offered: 7 days a week
Departures:- 08:30 AM, duration: 5.5 hours Length can be modified if you prefer a shorter tour. Contact ShoreTrips in advance of your booking.
- 09:00 AM, duration: 5.5 hours Length can be modified if you prefer a shorter tour. Contact ShoreTrips in advance of your booking.
