7 Most Highly Rated Tours & Experiences In Surat Thani City

Surat Thani City offers a surprisingly diverse range of tours and experiences that make exploring this part of Thailand truly rewarding. While it’s often seen as a transit point, the city and nearby regions are packed with authentic adventures. We particularly love the Elephant Sanctuary Tour on Koh Samui for a chance to interact with majestic elephants ethically, and the Khao Sok boat trips to see some of Thailand’s most stunning natural scenery from a private longtail boat. These tours provide more than just sightseeing—they connect you to the environment and local culture in meaningful ways.

If you’re short on time and want a rundown of Koh Samui’s highlights, the Island Tour VIP offers a full day of sightseeing, from waterfalls to temples, all in a small-group setting. For those seeking a deeper dive into eco-activities, the Samui: Ethical Elephants Sanctuary and Coconut Experience combines hands-on workshops with elephant encounters and local food. Whether you’re an animal lover, nature enthusiast, or cultural explorer, Surat Thani’s tours have something for you.

Quick Overview

This list covers a variety of adventures suitable for different interests and schedules. Highlights include ethical elephant interactions (Koh Samui Elephant Sanctuary), scenic boat excursions (Cheow Lan Lake), and full-day sightseeing tours (koh-samui-rare-sightseeing). Whether you want a half-day adventure or a multiple-day immersion in nature, the options below will help you find the right fit.

1. Koh Samui: Elephant Sanctuary Tour – Feed & Shower Elephants

At number 1 we have a heartwarming visit to Koh Samui’s Elephant Sanctuary. This experience is rated 4.8 out of 5 based on 578 reviews, reflecting its popularity among travelers seeking ethical wildlife encounters. The tour lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and includes round-trip hotel transfers on Samui, making it both convenient and meaningful. You’ll get the chance to feed elephants, learn about their natural behavior and habitat, and even shower them—a chance to help these gentle giants cool off and enjoy some water fun.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on ethical treatment. The sanctuary emphasizes conservation and the well-being of the elephants, avoiding rides or harmful activities. Visitors often comment on how touching it is to see elephants in such a caring environment. The guide shares insights into elephant behavior, making the encounter educational as well as fun. This tour is perfect for animal lovers and families who want a responsible way to connect with Thailand’s majestic elephants.

Bottom Line: An authentic, ethical, and interactive experience that leaves you with a new appreciation for elephants and their conservation.

2. Khao Sok: Private Longtail Boat Tour at Cheow Lan Lake

Number 2 on our list is the Private Longtail Boat Tour at Cheow Lan Lake in Khao Sok. Rated 4.7 out of 5 from 726 reviews, it offers a flexible, personalized way to explore one of Thailand’s most breathtaking natural wonders. This tour lasts between 4 and 6 hours and includes a private longtail boat ride across emerald waters surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush rainforest. Visitors get to swim in the lake, visit the Diamond Cave, and enjoy panoramic scenery that’s hard to match.

What makes this experience unique is the customization aspect—your own captain guides you through the lake, making stops for wildlife viewing and photos. The visit to Diamond Cave reveals impressive coral and rock formations, adding a touch of adventure and discovery. Reviews highlight the peaceful serenity and the chance to see wildlife, making it perfect for nature lovers who want a more intimate encounter with Khao Sok’s landscape.

Bottom Line: A fantastic way to relax and explore the lake’s natural beauty at your own pace, with the added bonus of wildlife spotting and cave exploration.

3. ISLAND TOUR VIP AROUND KOH SAMUI FULL DAY RARE SIGHTSEEING

For those who want to cover Koh Samui’s must-see sights in a single day, this VIP full-day tour is a top choice. Rated 4.9 out of 5 based on 37 reviews, it’s known for its small-group format and comprehensive itinerary. The tour takes about 9 hours and visits iconic locations like Na Mueang Waterfall, Big Buddha, Wat Plai Laem, and Grandfather’s and Grandmother’s Rocks. It also includes a stop at a local restaurant for regional lunch and a visit to Elephant Sanctuary (Koh Samui Elephant Sanctuary) for a brief wildlife encounter.

What sets this tour apart is its depth—covering temples, viewpoints, and scenic stops while maintaining an intimate feel. Guests enjoy guided tours with time for photos and shopping, making it especially suited for first-time visitors eager to see a broad slice of the island. The tour is also budget-friendly considering the comprehensive itinerary.

Bottom Line: An efficient, comfortable way to see Koh Samui’s highlights in one day, ideal for travelers with limited time.

4. Samui: Ethical Elephants Sanctuary and Coconut Experience

Number 4 features a full-day, sustainable experience rated 4.7 out of 5. It offers a hands-on coconut workshop, where you peel, grate, and cook Thai desserts, paired with a visit to the Elephant Sanctuary. The tour includes an authentic lunch at a Michelin-recommended local restaurant and ethical elephant feeding and care—no riding involved. You also get to plant coconut trees or make seed bombs to support local conservation efforts.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of culinary workshops and wildlife care. The guide explains the deep connection between coconuts, local communities, and conservation, enriching your understanding of regional culture. The experience is well-suited for eco-conscious travelers who appreciate hands-on activities and want to support ethical wildlife practices. The lunch is a highlight, giving insight into local flavors, and the coconut workshop adds a memorable, interactive element.

Bottom Line: A meaningful, well-rounded experience for eco-minded visitors wanting to combine culture, cuisine, and animal welfare.

5. From Surat Thani: Khao Sok Private Boat Tour

Number 5 provides a tailored half-day boat tour in Khao Sok, rated 4.7 out of 5. Lasting 2 to 5.5 hours, this private longtail boat cruise offers incredible views of limestone cliffs and lush jungles. Highlights include stops at Rajjaprabha Dam, Pra Kie Phet Cave, and Khao Sam Kloe, along with the opportunity to enjoy a Thai meal at a raft house overlooking the lake.

The private nature of this tour allows flexibility—your captain can adapt the stops to your interests, whether it’s wildlife spotting, photography, or simply relaxing on the boat. Guests often praise the scenic landscape and peaceful environment. It’s especially great for travelers who want a personalized experience and a chance to see hidden corners of Khao Sok’s lakes and caves.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a customized, scenic boat trip with the comfort of privacy.

6. Khaosok National Park: 4-Day and 3-Night Package Trip

Number 6 is a comprehensive multi-day adventure in Khao Sok with a 4-day, 3-night package. Rated 4.2 out of 5, it includes all meals, river tubing, and staying overnight on Cheow Lan Lake in a raft house. This option is ideal for travelers who want an immersive experience—spending nights in treetop bungalows and adventuring through caves and waterfalls.

The activities include boat trips, tubing, and even a night safari. The package promotes relaxation and exploration amid Thailand’s lushest landscapes. Guests rave about the serenity and unique accommodations, which blend comfort with nature. Because of its length, this tour is better suited for travelers with flexible schedules looking for a deep dive into the wilderness.

Bottom Line: A full-immersion escape for nature lovers ready to spend multiple days in Khao Sok’s wild beauty.

7. Ha Giang 4-Day Motorbike Loop: Villages, Passes, Hidden Gems

Finally, for the intrepid, the Ha Giang 4-Day Motorbike Loop offers a different kind of adventure, though technically outside Thailand. With no reviews listed, this tour promises mountain passes, ethnic village visits, and spectacular panoramas. It’s perfect for travelers who want to ride through remote landscapes and enjoy local cultures.

This route takes you through Quan Ba Heaven Gate, Lung Cu Flagpole, and Ma Pi Leng Pass, with stays in authentic homestays. The tour combines adventure, culture, and scenic beauty over four days, making it suitable for experienced motorbikers or those eager to see less-touristed areas.

Bottom Line: An adventurous choice for experienced riders seeking a multi-day cultural and scenic journey.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When selecting your ideal experience in Surat Thani, consider your interest, schedule, and budget. For a responsible wildlife encounter, the Elephant Sanctuary (Koh Samui Elephant Sanctuary) is hard to beat. If you want stunning scenery and a personalized adventure, the Cheow Lan Lake boat tour (Khao Sok) should be top of your list. For a comprehensive island experience, the VIP sightseeing (Koh Samui Tour) offers efficiency and variety.

Those interested in long-term immersion in nature and culture might prefer the multi-day Khao Sok package (Khao Sok 4-Day Tour). For adventure seekers, the Ha Giang Loop provides a unique ride through remote mountains and ethnic villages, though it requires motorbike experience.

Always check availability and book early, especially for popular tours like the elephant sanctuary or full-day island excursions. Consider your fitness level, time constraints, and what kind of experience you want—nature, wildlife, culture, or adventure.

Final Thoughts

Surat Thani’s tours cover a broad spectrum—from ethical wildlife encounters to scenic boat rides, and full-day sightseeing adventures. For a responsible animal experience, the Elephant Sanctuary stands out, while the Khao Sok boat tours impress with their stunning landscapes and personalized approach. For a deeper cultural or multi-day immersion, the Khao Sok multi-day trip offers unmatched value.

No matter your interests, booking early and choosing tours that match your energy level and curiosity will ensure a memorable trip. These experiences will deepen your understanding of this fascinating region and leave you with stories worth sharing long after your visit.