Let’s get to know more about the story of Pig Island (Koh Madsum)…and why it matters
Pig Island, also known as Pig Island Koh Samui, Pig Island Koh Madsum, or Pig Island Thailand, is a small island located just south of Koh Samui. It has become a standout destination because of its unusual and delightful residents: friendly, free-roaming pigs that wander across white-sand beaches and even wade or swim in the shallow, clear waters.
What makes Pig Island unique and worthy of a spot on any travel list is its contrast to typical Thai beach resorts. Rather than crowds, high-rise hotels, or commercial tourism facades, you get a quieter, more authentic island vibe: relaxing on pristine beaches, swimming or snorkeling in clear sea, and experiencing something whimsical and memorable by interacting with pigs.
This blend of natural beauty, gentle animals, and low-key island charm is exactly what turns a simple day-trip into a genuine, feel-good travel memory.
Why pigs are on the island: History of Pig Island
- The pigs on Pig Island, Koh Samui (Koh Madsum) are not native. The story goes: a local man rescued a small family of underfed pigs and brought them to the island to spare them from slaughter. Over time, the pigs multiplied, now there are several generations roaming freely.
- Their presence turned the island into a tourist attraction. Several tour operators started organizing Pig Island tours, giving visitors the chance to feed pigs, swim with them in shallow waters, and enjoy the island’s natural beauty.
Because of this unusual mix, a tropical island + friendly pigs roaming freely, Pig Island (Koh Madsum) has become one of Thailand’s most unique, off-beat attractions.
How to get there: Tours, boats, and travel options for Pig Island Koh Samui
Option | Details |
Speedboat tours | Many Pig Island tours use a speedboat, a ~20–30 minute ride from Ko Samui to Pig Island. |
Traditional long-tail boat | For a more laid-back vibe: longtail-boat tours take a bit longer but offer a classic Thai-island experience. |
Private boat / charters | If you want more privacy or flexible schedule, some operators offer private-boat rentals to Pig Island and nearby islands. |
Package tours / island-hopping | Many tours combine Pig Island with neighboring islands (e.g. Koh Tan or Koh Rap), includes transport, snorkeling gear, meals, sometimes hotel pickup/drop-off. |
Tip: Most tours leave from southern piers on Ko Samui (like Thong Krut), and travel time is short — making Pig Island a convenient day-trip from Ko Samui. Paradise Island
What to expect: Activities & experience on Pig Island
- Meet and feed pigs — the island’s signature: friendly pigs roam freely, paddle in shallow water, and love treats like fruit or pig feed (provided or sold by operators).
- Beach & water fun — calm, clear waters, shallow sandy shores: ideal for swimming, wading, snorkeling or just relaxing under palm trees.
- Snorkeling / marine life — nearby reefs (especially around Koh Tan / Koh Rap included in many tours) offer a chance to see coral and fish. Operators often provide snorkeling gear.
- Relaxed, laid-back vibe — compared with busy tourist beaches, Pig Island’s simplicity (few commercial buildings, basic facilities) gives a rustic-tropical charm.
Many consider Pig Island tours especially good for families with kids (pigs + easy water + calm sea) or travelers looking for a different kind of beach experience.
Booking & logistics — How to pick the right Pig Island Tour
If I were you and planned to visit Pig Island Koh Samui, here’s how I’d pick:
- Use established tour operators / booking platforms offering Pig Island tours or Pig Island Koh Samui tours — check what’s included: boat type (speedboat / longtail), snorkeling gear, meals, hotel transfer/pick-up.
- For more flexibility, especially with friends/family: consider a private-boat tour / charter — gives control over pace, privacy, and often better experience with fewer crowds.
- Prefer morning departures — fewer people, calm sea, pleasant light for photos.
- Pack essentials: swimwear, sunscreen, water, towel, maybe waterproof phone camera — there may be limited facilities, and pigs plus water equals splashy fun.
- If you care about wildlife welfare and environmental impact: ask operator about what food is allowed for pigs, how they manage waste, how they protect reefs when snorkeling.
Recommended Pig Island Tours
Here are some companies and platforms that currently offer tours to Pig Island (Koh Madsum):
- Pig Island Tours — dedicated tours to Pig Island / Koh Madsum; options for speedboat or longtail; visits often include snorkeling around nearby islands.
- Koh Samui Tours — day-trip tours to Pig Island (Koh Madsum) including round-trip transport, snorkeling gear, lunch.
- GoSamuiTours — package tours combining Pig Island, Koh Tan and Koh Rap: snorkeling, beach time, boat transfer, meals.
- Charter / private-boat operators around Ko Samui (for example those mentioned in local watersports/tourism sites) — good for private or small-group visits to Pig Island + nearby reefs.
These services cover the typical “pig island tour koh samui” experience: from simple day-trips to more complete island-hopping + snorkeling packages.
Best Time to Visit Pig Island & Practical Tips
- Best season: Dry season on Pig Island (Koh Madsum) runs roughly November–April — calm seas, clear water, pleasant weather.
- Avoid crowds: Book early-morning departures; tours tend to be more peaceful and you’ll have better opportunities to enjoy time with pigs and the beach.
- What to bring: Swimwear, sunscreen, towel, water, maybe waterproof camera/phone, and some small cash.
Respect the animals & nature: Feed pigs only approved snacks (often provided by tours), avoid disturbing wildlife, and follow guidelines to protect coral/reef when snorkeling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) — Real-world Pig Island questions
Q: What’s the official name of Pig Island?
A: The island is officially called Koh Madsum (sometimes spelled Koh Mudsum / Koh Matsum); “Pig Island” is the popular nickname used by tourists and tour operators.
Q: How long is the boat ride to Pig Island (Koh Madsum)?
A: Around 20–30 minutes by speedboat, or ~30–45 minutes by traditional long-tail boat — depending on sea conditions and departure pier on Ko Samui.
Q: Can I book a tour to Pig Island that includes snorkeling or other islands?
A: Yes — many tours labeled “pig island tour koh samui” or “pig island thailand koh samui” include snorkeling gear and visits to nearby islands like Koh Tan or Koh Rap.
Q: Is Pig Island suitable for families or first-time travelers?
A: Yes — the calm water, shallow beaches, free-roaming pigs (friendly and used to humans), and full-day tours make this a fun, low-stress option for families, couples, or solo travelers.
Summary — Why Pig Island (Koh Samui) is worth your travel list
If you’re looking for a unique, off-beat beach experience in Thailand, Pig Island Koh Samui (Koh Madsum) offers something rare: tropical island beauty + friendly pigs roaming freely + a laid-back vibe + optional snorkeling/ island-hopping.
Whether you book a standard day-trip, a private-boat tour, or a full package combining snorkeling and nearby islands — Pig Island stands out among the many beach destinations in Thailand. For a memorable, family-friendly, slightly quirky beach day — it’s hard to beat.
