Ko Samui Discovery
Duration: 6 hours
Tour Code: kos-001
Price:
$89.00 per person
Free
Experience a truly unique lifestyle and culture during this half-day visit to Ko Samui, the Island of Coconuts.
Depart the ship for the tender ride ashore and begin your tour with a scenic coastal drive past exquisite beaches and lush coconut plantations en route to Ko Samui, which is located off the northern shore of Samui on a small rocky island accessible by a causeway. Your first stop will be made at the Big Buddha Temple, or Wat Pha Yai. The Big Buddha Temple features a 36-foot golden statue perched atop a wide staircase decorated with dragons. The statue of Buddha is visible from several miles away, and creates an impressive silhouette against the sea and sky behind it. Surrounding the Buddha, you will find a number of meditation huts, or kutis, along with several striking golden statues and shops.
After your Big Buddha Temple visit, you will continue on to the Island Safari. One of the newest attractions on Samui, the Island Safari offers a fascinating glimpse into the amazing skill and training of elephants, and the daily duties they help perform on the island. You will then visit a local home and coconut plantation to explore how the islanders live and work. During your visit, you will learn how the pig-tailed monkeys found on the island are domesticated, and trained to pick ripe coconuts. This centuries-old tradition certainly comes in handy as Ko Samui, the Island of Coconuts, produces over three million coconuts per month. You will observe the exceptional abilities of these entertaining creatures, along with their amusing antics.
Following your tour, you will rejoin your coach for the return drive to the pier and ship.
Please note: The tour provides a basic introduction to Ko Samui. Tour buses and guides will be brought over from the mainland in order to provide the best service and quality possible. A moderate amount of walking is involved. Comfortable lightweight clothing and walking shoes are recommended. The temple visit requires appropriate dress: no cut-offs, sleeveless shirts, etc. will be permitted.