Koh Samui: Jungle Jeep Safari, Waterfall Swim & Magic Garden

Summary

Jeep adventure through Koh Samui’s jungle with waterfalls temples and secret gardens

You’ll ride through Koh Samui’s jungle in an ex-army jeep with a local guide, swim beneath Na Muang waterfall, share lunch on Maenam Beach, and wander among mossy statues in the Secret Buddha Garden. Expect laughter, cool water on your skin, and little surprises along the way — this day trip is about feeling alive in every sense.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it feels like to bounce around in an old army jeep, sweat sticking to your shirt while you climb into the green heart of Koh Samui? That’s how our day started — Mr. Ung grinned at us from behind the wheel, sunglasses crooked, as we rattled away from our hotel. The air smelled like wet earth and engine oil. First stop: those Grandfather & Grandmother Rocks (Hin Ta & Hin Yai). I’d seen photos but up close they’re both funny and weirdly moving. There’s this little market next door — I bought a carved coconut spoon I didn’t need, just because the vendor smiled so warmly.

We wound up at Wat Khunaram temple where the mummified monk sits quietly in his glass case. It was strangely peaceful inside; incense smoke curling around us while our guide explained how locals come here for luck or advice. I tried striking the gong — it echoed so deep my chest vibrated. Not sure if that’s good karma or just physics. Later we cooled off at Na Muang waterfall. The water was cold enough to make me gasp but after five minutes I didn’t want to leave. There were dragonflies everywhere, skimming over the rocks.

The climb up into the mountains got wilder — at one point, we stopped for sugarcane cut fresh from a roadside stand (sticky-sweet juice all over my hands). Lunch was right on Maenam Beach: spicy curry, fried fish, rice still steaming in the bowl. I watched a couple of local kids chasing each other on the sand while we ate. After that came the Secret Buddha Garden — statues half-swallowed by moss and roots, sunlight flickering through leaves overhead. There’s something about standing there that makes you feel small in a good way.

We ended with that huge Buddha statue at Phra Yai temple — 12 meters tall and gold catching late afternoon sun. Our guide told us if you walk around it clockwise three times you can make a wish but honestly, by then I was too tired to do more than just stand there and stare out over all of Samui spread below us. Sometimes you don’t need to do anything special for a moment to stick with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Koh Samui Jeep Jungle Safari Tour

• Hotel pick-up around 10:00-10:30am
• 4WD jeep drive through jungle and mountains
• Visit Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks
• Shop at nearby handmade Thai market
• Swim at Na Muang Waterfall
• Visit Mummified Monk at Khunaram Temple
• Stop at viewpoints for panoramic scenery
• Enjoy traditional Thai lunch at beachfront restaurant
• Explore Secret Buddha Garden statues
• See 12 meter Big Buddha at Phra Yai Temple
• Return to hotel around 4:30-5:00pm

Top questions

What time does the Koh Samui jungle safari start?

Hotel pickup is between 10:00 and 10:30 am; exact time is confirmed after booking.

Is lunch included in this day trip?

Yes, a traditional Thai lunch is included at a beachfront restaurant on Maenam Beach.

Can I swim during this tour?

Yes, there is time for swimming at Na Muang waterfall during the tour.

Does this safari visit the Secret Buddha Garden?

Yes, there is a stop at Koh Samui’s Secret Buddha Garden (Magic Garden).

Are entry fees covered?

All entry fees and taxes are included in your booking price.

Is hotel pickup provided?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included with your tour.

Is this tour suitable for children or infants?

Infants can join if seated on an adult’s lap; small children can use prams or strollers.

Are there any health restrictions?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Koh Samui, all entry fees and taxes along the route, plus a traditional Thai lunch served right on Maenam Beach before returning in the late afternoon.