Angthong National Marine Park by Highsea Tour Official

Taking a trip to Koh Samui and looking to explore beyond the beaches? The Angthong National Marine Park tour offered by Highsea Tour promises a full day of adventure, combining nature, activity, and spectacular scenery. From boat rides through a dazzling archipelago to hiking mountain trails and kayaking around limestone formations, this tour give you a well-rounded experience for those eager to see the natural beauty of Thailand’s Golden Gulf.

What we love most about this tour is the variety of activities packed into one day. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just looking for a peaceful escape, there’s something for all, from hiking with panoramic views to snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. The well-organized itinerary, with clear stops and guided routes, helps travelers maximize their time and enjoy the highlights without feeling rushed.

A potential drawback worth noting is that, despite the promise of snorkeling, some reviewers have found the experience lacking in this area. One person mentioned, “No snorkeling at all,” which suggests that if your main goal is underwater exploration, this might not meet your expectations. Still, for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, physical activity, and relaxing on pristine beaches, this tour remains a solid choice.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate nature and adventure combined with good food and scenic viewpoints. It’s especially good for those who want a comprehensive day out that includes hiking, kayaking, and sightseeing, all wrapped into an affordable price point. If you’re on a budget but still want to see the best of Angthong’s landscape, this tour offers decent value considering what’s included.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of activities like hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and sightseeing
• Affordable price point with included breakfast, lunch, and soft drinks
• Guided tours with friendly, multilingual guides who enhance the experience
• Stunning viewpoints such as Jan Ja Ras Nature Trail and Pha Jan Ja Ras
• Limited snorkeling opportunities, as some reviews indicate minimal underwater activity
• Suitable for most travelers, including those with moderate fitness levels

Dive Into the Details: What Makes This Tour Special?

Starting Point and Comfort

The adventure begins with a hotel pickup in an air-conditioned van, making the start seamless and comfortable. Upon arrival at Nathon Pier, you’ll find a friendly reception team ready to assist with check-in, giving you a clear overview of the day ahead. One of the perks here is the light breakfast—fresh bakery, hot tea, coffee, and fruit—perfect for fueling up before a day on the water.

The boat itself is described as designed for comfort and safety, with three spacious decks and a roof deck ideal for sunbathing and enjoying sea breezes. It’s clear that the operators emphasize passenger well-being and enjoyment, which adds to the relaxed vibe of the day.

Wua Ta Lap Island: The Heart of the Adventure

The first major stop is Wua Ta Lap, the central island of the archipelago. Here, you’ll find a chance to stretch your legs on the JanJaras nature trail, which promises an often-challenging climb to a viewpoint 500 meters above sea level. The reward? Panoramic views of 42 islands, a breathtaking sight that makes the hike worth the effort.

For those less inclined to hike, the island offers white sandy beaches to relax on or snorkel in the clear waters. Reviewers mention the magnificent Lotus Cave (Bua Boke), with its striking stalactite and stalagmite formations, making it an attraction not to miss if you’re into natural mineral sculptures.

Pha Jan Ja Ras Viewpoint: The Scenic Climax

Next up is a mountain trek along a trail that features ladders and fixed ropes, making it suitable for those with a moderate level of fitness and adventure spirit. The view from Pha Jan Ja Ras is described as “spectacular,” offering a sweeping vista of the archipelago’s islands, and providing ample opportunity for memorable photos.

This hike is considered one of Thailand’s most famous mountain trails, and while it requires effort, many reviewers agree that the visual payoff is well worth it. The experience of climbing amidst natural formations adds an authentic adventure touch to the tour.

Mae Koh Island: Kayaking and Snorkeling

One of the tour’s highlights is the kayaking experience around Mae Koh, where learners get a quick tutorial from guides before paddling through caves and limestone formations. The guided instruction ensures even beginners feel comfortable on the water, which is a plus for those new to kayaking.

Following the paddling adventure, you’ll have the option to snorkel and observe marine life. However, it’s worth noting that one reviewer was disappointed, mentioning, “No snorkeling at all,” suggesting that under certain circumstances, the underwater experience might be limited. Still, the snorkeling gear provided is of good quality, and if marine life is a priority, you might want to clarify with the guides beforehand.

The Blue Lagoon: An Emerald Escape

The Blue Lagoon (Talay Nai) is described as a paradise-like spot where lush green mountains surround a shimmering emerald lake. A short walk up a staircase takes you to the top for spectacular views and selfie opportunities. It’s a scenic spot that offers a peaceful break from the boat activities and a chance to absorb some truly beautiful natural scenery.

Afterward, visitors can relax on the nearby beach or do additional snorkeling, making the stop both picturesque and restful.

The Farewell Cruise and Return

The final part of the tour involves a cruise from Mae Koh to Koh Sam Sao, where you can admire an iconic natural arch stone bridge before heading back to Nathon Pier. The journey includes complimentary snacks, soft drinks, and a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights.

The return trip offers a moment to unwind and enjoy the sea breeze before the transfer back to your hotel, completing a full and generally satisfying day.

What Do Reviewers Say?

While the overall rating sits around 3.5 out of 5, reviews highlight a few key elements that stand out. One reviewer called it a “fantastic full-day tour” with “friendly guides” and delicious meals; they appreciated the variety of activities and the well-organized schedule. The guides, in particular, seem to be a highlight, with mentions of their knowledgeable and helpful attitude.

However, some disappointed travelers noted the lack of snorkeling or underwater activity as a downside. The confusion over when and where snorkeling would happen suggests travelers should clarify expectations or be prepared for limited underwater exploration.

The food offerings, including a buffet lunch with seasonal salad and fruits, received praise for their quality and variety, and the included snacks and soft drinks kept everyone energized throughout the day.

Practical Considerations: What You Need to Know

The tour costs approximately $34.79 per person, which provides a good value considering the inclusions: transportation, breakfast, lunch, equipment, and guides. The national park entrance fee (300 THB for adults, 150 THB for children) is paid separately at check-in, so budget accordingly.

The tour runs from 8:30 am and lasts around 8 to 9 hours, ending back at the starting point. The group size can be up to 80 travelers, so expect a lively but organized experience. It’s suitable for most travelers, including those with moderate fitness levels, thanks to the variety of activities and guided assistance.

This tour offers an excellent balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and relaxation, making it ideal for travelers who want to see and experience a wide range of natural attractions in one day. The inclusion of hiking trails with panoramic views and kayaking ensures those seeking active pursuits will be satisfied, while the scenic viewpoints and calm lagoons appeal to those who prefer more laid-back moments.

The value for money is solid, especially with meals and equipment included, but if your primary goal is underwater snorkeling, you might find this tour a bit lacking. It’s better suited for curious travelers eager to explore, discover, and enjoy the natural wonders of Angthong without spending a fortune or committing to multi-day adventures.

Overall, Highsea Tour’s Angthong National Marine Park experience delivers a well-rounded, enjoyable day that balances activity and downtime, guided by friendly guides and set against some of Thailand’s most stunning scenery.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned van, making the start and end of the day hassle-free.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable clothing suitable for hiking and water activities, sunscreen, a hat, waterproof camera or phone, and a sense of adventure. Snorkeling equipment is provided, but bringing your own mask and fins is optional.

How strenuous are the hikes?
The hikes, especially to Pha Jan Ja Ras Viewpoint, involve some climbing with ladders and fixed ropes, so moderate fitness levels are recommended. The JanJaras trail is challenging but rewarding.

Is snorkeling worth it?
While snorkeling is included, some reviewers found the experience limited or absent altogether. If underwater exploration is your priority, clarify with guides beforehand.

What’s the typical group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 80 travelers, so expect a lively group but with guided assistance to keep things organized.

Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available upon request, and the lunch buffet includes seasonal salads and fruits.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, with full refunds available if canceled within this window.

To sum it up, this tour presents an accessible, activity-rich way to explore Angthong’s spectacular scenery and natural wonders. It’s best suited for active travelers, families, or groups looking for a full day of sightseeing without sacrificing comfort or budget. While snorkeling may not meet every expectation, the combination of hiking, kayaking, stunning viewpoints, and good food makes for a memorable day out.