Ko Chang is a slice of tropical paradise that offers more than just beautiful beaches. Its surrounding waters and lush forests make it an ideal spot for guided tours that reveal the island’s natural beauty and local charm. Whether you’re snorkeling among coral reefs, exploring mangrove forests, or visiting multiple islands in a day, Ko Chang’s tours are designed to suit a variety of interests. We particularly like the Koh Chang: 3 or 4 Islands Snorkel & Beach Tour by Big Boat for its vibrant underwater scenes and relaxed beach stops, as well as the Koh Chang: Mangrove Forest Gondola Tour for a peaceful journey through the island’s mangrove ecosystem. Both offer an authentic glimpse into the region’s natural riches.
For those looking to cover more ground, the Full-Day Koh Chang Tour with Lunch provides a comprehensive day of sightseeing, including viewpoints, mangroves, and cultural sites. And if your focus is on marine life, the 5 Island Guided Boat Tour with Lunch Buffet offers the chance to snorkel around five different islands. Below, we’ll explore each tour in detail to help you choose the best experience for your trip.
1. Koh Chang: 3 or 4 Islands Snorkel & Beach Tour by Big Boat
This popular day tour offers a chance to explore three or four islands around Koh Chang, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and relaxing on the beach. The tour includes hotel transfers, lunch, and all snorkeling gear, making it an easy and hassle-free way to enjoy the region’s underwater beauty. Starting early at around 9 AM, you’ll hop aboard a comfortable big boat and visit islands like Ko Yak Lek, Ko Mapring, and Ko Wai, where you can snorkel amid colorful fish and corals or simply unwind on pristine beaches.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of snorkeling in coral gardens and relaxing at beaches with turquoise waters. The boat has a “fish-feeding” spot that often results in lively underwater scenes, perfect for photography. The local Thai lunch served on the boat adds to the experience, allowing you to enjoy fresh, authentic flavors while soaking up the sun.
With a solid review rating of 4.4/5 from over 500 travelers, many appreciate the friendly crew and the variety of islands visited. The duration varies from 5.5 to 9 hours, depending on conditions and group size, so be prepared for a full-day adventure. The tour is best suited for snorkelers and beach lovers looking for a relaxed, scenic day on the water.
Bottom Line: This tour offers great value for its combination of snorkeling, island hopping, and a tasty Thai lunch. It’s perfect for travelers who want a straightforward, fun day exploring Koh Chang’s marine environment.
2. Koh Chang: Mangrove Forest Gondola Tour
This shorter, more peaceful experience takes you into the heart of Koh Chang’s mangrove ecosystem. The private gondola ride explores the Salak Khok mangrove forest, an area teeming with wildlife and lush vegetation. The tour lasts around 40 minutes, with a local guide paddling you through the narrow channels, giving you a quiet, intimate view of this delicate habitat.
What makes this tour special is the serene setting and the chance to see wildlife like birds, crabs, and possibly monitor lizards up close. Many reviewers describe the scenery as “breathtaking,” especially when surrounded by the tangled roots and reflections in the water. The tour is small and private, making it ideal for couples or small groups seeking a break from the busy beaches.
The guided narration provides insights into the ecological importance of mangroves and their role in protecting the coast from erosion. It’s a calming experience that combines natural beauty with educational value. At only $33 per group, it’s an affordable and memorable way to connect with Koh Chang’s natural environment.
Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers and those wanting a peaceful, short excursion that highlights Koh Chang’s ecological richness. It’s a quiet, scenic escape from the usual beach scene.
3. Full-Day Koh Chang Tour with Lunch
If you want a comprehensive look at Koh Chang in one day, this full-day tour delivers. It includes visits to White Sand Beach viewpoint, the island’s spirit house, the Salak Kok mangroves, and a stop at Klong Son Bay. The itinerary is designed to give travelers a taste of both natural beauty and cultural sites, all with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off.
The tour begins with panoramic views at White Sand Beach, then heads north to visit the spirit house, which offers insight into local spiritual practices. In the afternoon, you’ll explore the vibrant mangrove forests by boat, with optional kayaking. After a traditional Thai lunch, the last stop at Klong Son Bay provides a relaxing beach break, ideal for swimming or simply soaking up the scenery.
Rated perfect with 5.0/5 from four reviews, travelers appreciate the well-organized schedule and the variety of sights covered. The guide provides context about local Buddhism, nature, and history, making the experience both educational and fun.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a full day of sightseeing without rushing. It balances scenic views, cultural insights, and time at the beach, making it a good choice for families or those wanting to see a broad slice of Koh Chang.
Bottom Line: For those who want an all-in-one experience, this tour offers a well-rounded day of sightseeing, nature, and culture, with the convenience of an organized trip.
4. Koh Chang: 5 Island Guided Boat Tour with Lunch Buffet
This full-day snorkeling adventure takes you around five islands in Koh Chang National Park. The focus is on marine exploration, with snorkel gear provided to discover vibrant coral gardens and reef fish. The boat is spacious, stable, and designed for comfort, making it suitable for families and ocean lovers alike.
The tour includes hotel transfers, a buffet lunch onboard, and guided snorkeling sessions at each stop. Highlights include snorkeling among colorful coral reefs and swimming at secluded beaches. The experience is ideal for travelers eager to see multiple islands in one trip without the hassle of organizing separate trips.
Reviewers note that the marine life is impressive, and the large, stable boat makes the experience comfortable even for those prone to seasickness. For $53, the tour offers excellent value, especially considering the included lunch and transfers. The group size is typically moderate, ensuring personalized attention from guides.
This tour is perfect for snorkelers who want to maximize their time on the water and explore different marine environments in a single day. It’s an engaging, active option for families, couples, or friends who love ocean adventures.
Bottom Line: This guided boat tour is a reliable choice for snorkelers wanting to visit multiple islands with ease, good facilities, and a tasty buffet to fuel the day.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Ko Chang
Choosing the best tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend exploring. If underwater adventures are your priority, the Snorkel & Beach Tour offers great value with multiple island stops. For a peaceful, ecological experience, the Mangrove Gondola provides a quiet yet informative outing. Those wanting a full overview of the island’s sights will enjoy the Full-Day Tour, which combines nature, culture, and beach time. And for marine enthusiasts, the 5 Island Guided Tour offers a comprehensive snorkel-focused day.
Consider your budget—these tours range from around $27 for snorkeling to $61 for a full-day experience—and think about your preferred pace. Book early, especially during peak season, to secure your spot for these popular outings.
Final Thoughts
Ko Chang offers a variety of tours that cater to different tastes, from underwater snorkeling adventures to tranquil mangrove explorations and all-in-one sightseeing days. For a lively day on the water, the Koh Chang: 3 or 4 Islands Snorkel & Beach Tour by Big Boat is a solid choice. If you’re after serenity and wildlife, the Mangrove Forest Gondola provides a peaceful escape. Want to see everything in one go? The Full-Day Koh Chang Tour strikes a good balance.
Whatever your interests, booking early and choosing a tour suited to your activity level will ensure a memorable experience. Ko Chang’s natural beauty is waiting—don’t miss out on exploring it with a guided tour tailored for your perfect adventure.