Koh Chang: Thailand's Jungle Island Adventure (2026 Guide)

While everyone's Instagramming their perfectly filtered shots of Phuket and Koh Samui, Koh Chang sits 300km east of Bangkok, quietly being one of Thailand's most underrated islands. This is Thailand's second-largest island, and unlike its overly-developed southern cousins, Koh Chang has held onto something rare: authentic jungle wilderness, cascading waterfalls that actually flow year-round, and beaches where you won't be fighting for towel space.

Koh Chang translates to "Elephant Island" (named for its elephant-shaped headland, not because of elephant tourism), and the name fits. Nearly 70% of the island is mountainous jungle, protected as part of Mu Ko Chang National Park. This isn't a party island like Koh Phangan, and it's not a backpacker highway stop like Krabi. Koh Chang is for travelers who want adventure—trekking through rainforest, diving with whale sharks, kayaking through mangroves, and discovering waterfalls where you might be the only person there.

The vibe is refreshingly low-key. Yes, there are beach bars and decent hostels, but development is limited to the west coast, and even there, it's pretty chill. The east coast is virtually untouched. This is an island where you can still feel like you're discovering something.

If you're the type of backpacker who'd rather hike to a hidden waterfall than lie on a beach all day, Koh Chang might just be your favorite Thai island.

![koh-chang-jungle-beach.jpg]

Quick Facts

Daily Budget: $25-40 USD (budget), $45-70 USD (mid-range)

Best For: Jungle trekking, waterfall chasing, scuba diving, kayaking, ethical elephant encounters, getting off the beaten path

Time Needed: 4-6 days minimum (7-10 days if you want to really explore)

Vibe: Adventure-focused, nature-immersed, relaxed backpacker scene. Less party, more jungle. Think trekking boots over flip-flops.

When to Go:

• Best: November-February (dry season, perfect weather)
• Good: March-May (hot but manageable, fewer crowds)
• Avoid: June-October (monsoon season, some ferries cancelled, waterfalls raging but trails sketchy)

How to Get There:

• From Bangkok: Minivan to Trat (5 hours, 300-400 THB / $9-12), then ferry from Laem Ngop pier (30-45 min, 80-100 THB / $2.50-3)
• From Pattaya: Minivan + ferry (4 hours total, ~500 THB / $15)
• Pro tip: Book combo tickets that include minivan + ferry at Bangkok's Khao San Road or Ekkamai bus terminal

Why Go to Koh Chang? (A Backpacker's Perspective)

The Real Deal

Koh Chang is NOT for everyone. If you want 24/7 nightlife, endless hostel party crawls, and perfectly manicured beaches with beach clubs, go to Koh Phangan or Phuket. But if you're the type who gets excited about jungle hikes, wildlife, diving in less-touristy sites, and having waterfalls to yourself—Koh Chang might be the best island you visit in Thailand.

Here's why adventure-seeking backpackers fall hard for Koh Chang:

It's Legitimately Jungle: Most of Thailand's "jungle islands" have been bulldozed for resorts. Koh Chang's interior is 70% protected national park. We're talking primary rainforest with gibbons howling at dawn, monitor lizards crossing trails, hornbills in the canopy, and actual wilderness. The hiking here rivals northern Thailand.

The Waterfalls Are Real: Thailand has a lot of "waterfalls" that are basically trickles during dry season. Koh Chang's waterfalls—Klong Plu, Klong Neung, Than Mayom—flow year-round because the island's elevation captures rainfall. During rainy season, they're thundering cascades. During dry season, they're perfect swimming holes.

The Diving is World-Class (and Affordable): Koh Chang sits in the Gulf of Thailand with incredible dive sites—steep walls, pinnacles, coral gardens, and macro life. You'll see whale sharks (seasonal), manta rays, nudibranchs, and colorful reef fish. Open Water certification costs ~10,000 THB ($300), way cheaper than Australia or the Caribbean.

Less Developed = More Authentic: White Sand Beach has hostels and restaurants, but it's not Khao San Road. Lonely Beach is the backpacker hub, but it's still mellow. Most of the island is jungle and empty coastline. You can rent a scooter and ride for hours without seeing another foreigner.

Ethical Elephant Encounters: Koh Chang has multiple elephant sanctuaries, but here's the critical part: we'll teach you how to spot ethical ones versus the ones that still exploit animals. This is important—don't just show up at the first place you Google.

Adventure Activities Everywhere: Kayaking through mangroves, snorkeling trips to nearby islands, zip-lining through the canopy, sunset viewpoint hikes, fishing villages to explore. There's so much more to do than just lie on the beach (though you can definitely do that too).

The Backpacker Scene

Koh Chang's backpacker scene is small but tight-knit. Most travelers base themselves at Lonely Beach (on the west coast), which has a cluster of budget hostels, beach bars, and hippie-ish vibes. It's social without being overwhelming—you'll meet people at bonfires on the beach, shared scooter rides to waterfalls, and dive boat trips.

White Sand Beach (the main town) has more infrastructure but less backpacker culture—it's where families and mid-range travelers stay. If you want the balance of socializing and having your own space, split your time between both.

Pro tip: Most hostels organize group activities—waterfall hikes, snorkel trips, pub crawls to Lonely Beach. Join one on your first day to instantly have a crew.

Waterfalls You Can't Miss

Koh Chang's waterfalls are the island's signature feature. Unlike many Thai islands where "waterfalls" are disappointing trickles, these are legit cascades tumbling through rainforest gorges. Here are the must-visits:

1. Klong Plu Waterfall

Why it's special: This is the most popular waterfall on the island, and for good reason. It's a massive 25-meter cascade plunging into a deep, swimmable pool surrounded by jungle. The hike in is easy (15-20 minutes on a maintained trail), making it accessible for all fitness levels.

What to expect:

• Entry fee: 200 THB ($6) - national park fee
• Swimming: Yes, the pool is deep and refreshing
• Crowds: Can get busy 11am-2pm when tour groups arrive. Go early (8am) or late (4pm).
• Trail: Well-marked, slight incline, wooden walkways over streams
• Wildlife: Listen for gibbons in the trees, watch for monitor lizards near the stream

Getting there: Located between White Sand Beach and Kai Bae Beach. Rent a scooter (200-250 THB/day) and follow signs to "Klong Plu Waterfall." Park at the base and hike in.

Pro tip: Bring water shoes—the rocks are slippery. Also, don't leave valuables on the beach while you swim; theft is rare but not unheard of.

2. Klong Neung Waterfall

Why it's special: This is the hidden gem. Klong Neung is less visited than Klong Plu, which means you might have it entirely to yourself. The waterfall is smaller (about 8 meters) but the setting is magical—deep in the jungle with a calm, clear pool perfect for swimming.

What to expect:

• Entry fee: 200 THB ($6) - national park fee
• Swimming: Yes, the pool is smaller but pristine
• Crowds: Rarely crowded, even in peak season
• Trail: Shorter hike (10 minutes), but steeper and less maintained. Watch your footing.
• Vibe: Peaceful, meditative, feels remote

Getting there: South of Klong Plu, near Khlong Son village. Look for the small national park sign on the main road. The trailhead is easy to miss—ask locals if unsure.

Pro tip: Combine Klong Plu and Klong Neung in one morning. Start at Klong Neung (8am, empty), then hit Klong Plu after (9:30am, before crowds).

3. Than Mayom Waterfall

Why it's special: Than Mayom is significant historically—King Rama V visited in 1881 and carved his initials into a rock near the base. It's a tiered waterfall with multiple pools at different levels. The lower tier is easy to reach; the upper tiers require more serious hiking.

What to expect:

• Entry fee: 200 THB ($6)
• Swimming: Yes, multiple pools at different tiers
• Difficulty: Lower tier = easy (10 min walk). Upper tiers = moderate (30-45 min scramble over rocks)
• Scenery: Lush rainforest, rocky terrain, feels wilder than Klong Plu
• Wildlife: Great birdwatching—hornbills, kingfishers, sunbirds

Getting there: East coast of the island (quieter side), near Than Mayom Bay. About 30 min scooter ride from White Sand Beach.

Pro tip: The upper tiers are stunning but genuinely challenging. Only attempt if you're comfortable scrambling over wet rocks and have proper footwear. Many travelers skip this one, so it's less crowded.

Other Waterfalls Worth Mentioning

• Khlong Phrao Waterfall: Small but accessible, near Khlong Phrao Beach. Good if you're staying nearby.
• Khiri Phet Waterfall: Remote, requires a guide, but absolutely stunning for adventurous trekkers.

Waterfall etiquette:

• Don't litter (take all trash with you)
• Respect wildlife (no feeding monkeys)
• Wear reef-safe sunscreen if swimming
• Follow national park rules (no fires, no camping without permits)

Beaches: Where to Stay & Swim

Koh Chang's west coast has the main beaches, while the east coast is largely undeveloped (mangroves, fishing villages, quiet bays). Here's the breakdown:

White Sand Beach (Hat Sai Khao)

Vibe: Main town, most developed area, family-friendly, mid-range accommodations

Why stay here:

• Best infrastructure (ATMs, 7-Elevens, restaurants, dive shops)
• Long, wide beach with calm water
• Easy access to ferries, scooter rentals, tour bookings
• Good base if you want convenience

Why skip it:

• Not much backpacker culture
• Lacks the laid-back beach bar vibe
• More expensive than Lonely Beach

Best for: First night on the island, families, travelers who want everything nearby

Where to stay:

• Koh Chang Hut (budget bungalows, 500-700 THB/night)
• Little Sunshine Boutique Beach Resort (mid-range, beachfront, ~1,500 THB/night)

Lonely Beach (Hat Tha Nam)

Vibe: Backpacker central, hippie vibes, beach bars, bonfires, social hostels

Why stay here:

• Best backpacker scene on the island
• Affordable hostels (150-300 THB/dorm, 400-800 THB/private)
• Beach bars with live music, fire shows, cheap beers
• Easy to meet other travelers
• Laid-back, no-pressure atmosphere

Why skip it:

• Can feel a bit "hippie burnout" if you're not into that scene
• Beach is narrower and rockier than White Sand Beach
• Limited dining options outside of hostel restaurants

Best for: Solo travelers, gap-year backpackers, social butterflies

Where to stay:

• Nature Beach Resort (backpacker favorite, bungalows + dorms, beach bar)
• Oasis Hostel (social vibe, hammocks, common area)
• Lonely Beach Resort (budget bungalows right on the beach)

Pro tip: Lonely Beach is actually divided into two areas—"Lonely Beach North" (quieter) and "Lonely Beach South" (more developed, where hostels are). Make sure your booking is in the right spot.

Kai Bae Beach

Vibe: Middle ground between White Sand Beach's development and Lonely Beach's backpacker scene

Why stay here:

• Beautiful beach with calm water
• Good mix of budget and mid-range options
• Less crowded than White Sand, less party-focused than Lonely Beach
• Decent restaurants and bars

Best for: Travelers who want beach time without the backpacker scene

Where to stay:

• Porn's Bungalows (classic budget spot, ~600 THB/night)
• Kai Bae Beach Resort (mid-range, pool, beachfront)

Bang Bao (Fishing Village)

Vibe: Not a beach—it's a traditional fishing village built on stilts over the water

Why go here:

• Most dive shops are based here (easy for early morning dives)
• Seafood restaurants on stilts over the bay
• Authentic local culture
• Sunset views

Best for: Divers, travelers seeking local culture, seafood lovers

Where to stay:

• Bang Bao Cliff Cottage (bungalows with ocean views)
• Buddha View Dive Resort (dive-focused accommodation)

East Coast Beaches (For the Adventurous)

The east coast has almost no infrastructure—no hostels, few restaurants, limited roads. BUT it's beautiful, empty, and authentic. If you rent a scooter, explore:

• Long Beach (Hat Yao): Remote, beautiful, accessible by boat or rough road
• Salak Phet Bay: Mangrove forests, fishing villages, kayaking
• Wai Chaek Beach: Quiet, local, zero tourists

Pro tip: East coast exploration is a day trip activity (pack lunch, water). Don't expect to stay overnight unless you're camping.

Diving & Snorkeling

Koh Chang's diving scene is criminally underrated. The Gulf of Thailand around Koh Chang and nearby islands has stunning underwater landscapes—pinnacles, walls, coral gardens, and macro life that rivals anywhere in Thailand.

Why Dive Koh Chang?

Less crowded than Phuket/Koh Tao: You'll have dive sites almost to yourself. No crowds of Open Water students kicking up sand.

Incredible marine life:

• Macro heaven: Nudibranchs, ghost pipefishes, seahorses, frogfish
• Big stuff (seasonal): Whale sharks (March-May), manta rays, barracuda schools
• Reef fish: Angelfish, butterflyfish, moray eels, lionfish, parrotfish

Affordable: Open Water certification costs ~10,000 THB ($300). Fun dives are ~1,000-1,200 THB ($30-36) per dive.

Professional operators: Most dive shops in Bang Bao are PADI 5-star centers with experienced instructors.

Best Dive Sites

1. Hin Luk Bat

• Depth: 12-25 meters
• What you'll see: Pinnacle dive, soft corals, barracuda schools, sometimes whale sharks
• Best for: Advanced divers (currents can be strong)

2. HTMS Chang Wreck

• Depth: 22-31 meters
• What you'll see: Purpose-sunk Thai Navy ship (2012), now covered in coral, home to groupers and lionfish
• Best for: Advanced Open Water (wreck dive specialty helpful)

3. Three Fingers

• Depth: 10-20 meters
• What you'll see: Three rock pinnacles, hard and soft corals, reef fish, macro life
• Best for: All levels (including Open Water students)

4. Koh Rang (Koh Rang National Park)

• Depth: 5-18 meters
• What you'll see: Pristine coral gardens, crystal-clear water, snorkeling paradise
• Best for: All levels, great for Open Water students

Recommended Dive Shops

BB Divers (Bang Bao) - Long-established, PADI 5-star, great for courses Scuba Dawgs (Bang Bao) - Fun, professional, good vibes Ploy Scuba Diving (Bang Bao) - Small groups, experienced guides

Courses offered:

• Open Water Diver: 10,000 THB (~$300)
• Advanced Open Water: 8,000 THB (~$240)
• Rescue Diver: 9,000 THB (~$270)
• Divemaster: ~30,000 THB (~$900)

Pro tip: Book directly with dive shops in Bang Bao, not through your hostel (they take commission). Walk the pier, compare prices, check equipment quality.

Snorkeling

If you're not diving, snorkeling trips are excellent:

Full-day snorkel trips:

• Where: Koh Rang, Koh Wai, Koh Kham
• Cost: 800-1,200 THB ($24-36) including lunch, gear, transport
• What you'll see: Coral reefs, tropical fish, maybe sea turtles
• Book: Through your hostel or Bang Bao pier tour shops

Pro tip: Bring reef-safe sunscreen (regular sunscreen kills coral). If you don't have any, wear a rash guard or long-sleeve swim shirt.

Elephant Sanctuary: Ethical vs. Unethical

Thailand's elephant tourism industry has a dark side. For decades, elephants were exploited for rides, shows, and photo ops—all of which involve abuse (Google "phajaan" if you want to ruin your day). But in recent years, ethical sanctuaries have emerged where elephants are rescued and live in better conditions.

Here's how to tell the difference on Koh Chang:

AVOID These Red Flags (Unethical Operations)

🚫 Elephant rides: Elephants' spines are not designed to carry weight. Riding damages their backs.

🚫 Tricks and shows: Elephants painting, playing instruments, or doing tricks are trained through punishment.

🚫 Chains and bullhooks: If you see elephants chained or handlers using bullhooks (sharp metal sticks), it's abusive.

🚫 Photo ops with babies: Baby elephants are separated from mothers prematurely for tourism.

🚫 Pushy booking agents: If your hostel or tour shop is aggressively pushing one elephant place, they're getting commission. Do your own research.

CHOOSE Ethical Sanctuaries (Look For These Signs)

✅ Observation-based: You watch elephants in their natural habitat, not forced interactions.

✅ No riding, no tricks: Activities are limited to feeding, bathing (if the elephant initiates), and walking alongside.

✅ Open about history: Ethical sanctuaries explain each elephant's rescue story and trauma.

✅ No chains, no bullhooks: Elephants roam freely or are managed with voice commands only.

✅ Limited group sizes: Small groups (max 10-15 people) to minimize stress on elephants.

✅ Transparent pricing: Ethical sanctuaries aren't cheap (1,500-2,500 THB / $45-75), because they're actually caring for animals, not exploiting them.

Recommended Ethical Sanctuaries on Koh Chang

1. Koh Chang Animal Project

• What they do: Rescue and rehab elephants, dogs, and cats
• Activities: Elephant observation, feeding, walking alongside (no riding)
• Cost: ~2,000 THB (~$60) for half-day
• Location: Near Klong Son village
• Book: Directly via their website or Facebook page

2. Ban Kwan Chang Elephant Camp

• What they do: Retired elephants from logging industry, no riding, no tricks
• Activities: Feeding, mud bathing (if elephants are comfortable), observation
• Cost: ~1,800 THB (~$54) for half-day
• Location: Near Khlong Phrao Beach

3. Chang Chutiman Elephant Camp

• What they do: Small family-run sanctuary, transparent about rescue stories
• Activities: Feeding, bathing in river, learning about elephant behavior
• Cost: ~2,200 THB (~$66) for half-day

Pro tip: Book directly with sanctuaries (not through third-party agents). Ask questions before booking: "Do you allow riding?" "How do mahouts control elephants?" "What's the elephants' daily routine?" Ethical places will answer openly.

What About "Bathing" Elephants?

Many places advertise "bathing elephants" as ethical. Here's the nuance: if the elephant chooses to enter the water and you gently splash them, that's okay. If handlers force elephants into water for photo ops with tourists, that's not okay.

Ask yourself: Does the elephant seem comfortable? Are handlers using bullhooks or force? Is this activity for the elephant's benefit or the tourists'?

Kayaking & Island Hopping

Kayaking in Koh Chang

Koh Chang's mangrove forests and hidden coves are perfect for sea kayaking. You'll paddle through calm waters, spot wildlife (monitor lizards, kingfishers, mudskippers), and explore areas inaccessible by land.

Best kayaking spots:

1. Salak Phet Bay (East Coast)

• Mangrove forests, fishing villages, secluded beaches
• Half-day guided tour: ~800 THB ($24)
• Rent your own kayak: ~300 THB/half-day

2. Salak Kok Bay

• Mangrove tunnels, birdwatching, peaceful paddling
• Guided tour: ~900 THB ($27)
• Wildlife: Monitor lizards, herons, kingfishers

Pro tip: Go in the morning (cooler, calmer water, better wildlife spotting). Bring waterproof bag for phone/camera, water bottle, and reef-safe sunscreen.

Island Hopping Day Trips

Koh Chang is surrounded by smaller islands, many of which are part of Mu Ko Chang National Park. Book a day trip to explore:

Popular island-hopping tours include:

Koh Wai - Tiny island, pristine beaches, excellent snorkeling Koh Kham - Heart-shaped island, turquoise water, Instagram-famous Koh Rang - Best snorkeling in the area, part of national park Koh Mak - Laid-back island, good for cycling, beautiful beaches

Cost: 1,000-1,500 THB ($30-45) for full-day tour (includes lunch, snorkel gear, park fees, boat transport)

Book: Through your hostel, Bang Bao pier, or online (GetYourGuide, Klook)

Pro tip: Tours leave early (8-9am), return late afternoon (4-5pm). Bring motion sickness tablets if you're prone to seasickness—the Gulf can get choppy.

Where to Stay: Hostel Showdown

White Sand Beach Hostels (Convenient but Less Social)

Mad Monkey Hostel

• Dorm beds: 400-500 THB ($12-15)
• Vibe: Social, pool, bar, organized activities
• Pros: Great facilities, A/C dorms, Netflix in common room
• Cons: Can feel like a party hostel (noise)

Pajamas Koh Chang Hostel

• Dorm beds: 350-450 THB ($10-13)
• Vibe: Clean, modern, chill
• Pros: Good location, quiet, reliable wifi
• Cons: Less social than Lonely Beach hostels

Lonely Beach Hostels (Social, Budget, Backpacker Central)

Nature Beach Resort

• Dorm beds: 200-300 THB ($6-9)
• Private bungalows: 500-800 THB ($15-24)
• Vibe: Classic backpacker spot, beach bar, bonfires, hammocks
• Pros: Right on the beach, super social, cheap
• Cons: Basic facilities, can be loud at night

Oasis Hostel

• Dorm beds: 250-350 THB ($7-10)
• Vibe: Hippie vibes, yoga, drum circles
• Pros: Friendly staff, good common area, jungle setting
• Cons: Not directly on beach, basic showers

Lonely Beach Resort

• Bungalows: 400-700 THB ($12-21)
• Vibe: Budget bungalows, right on Lonely Beach
• Pros: Beach access, affordable, quiet(ish)
• Cons: No dorms (only private rooms)

Pro tip: Book 1-2 nights initially, then extend if you like it. Hostel vibes vary by season and crowd.

Eating on Koh Chang

Budget Eats (50-100 THB / $1.50-3 per meal)

Street food stalls: White Sand Beach main road has noodle carts, pad thai stalls, grilled skewers

7-Eleven meals: Instant noodles, sandwiches, snacks (every beach has a 7-Eleven)

Local markets: Kai Bae morning market (cheap breakfast), Bang Bao night market (seafood)

Hostel kitchens: Most hostels have shared kitchens if you want to cook

Mid-Range Restaurants (150-300 THB / $4.50-9 per meal)

Lonely Beach beach bars: Burgers, Thai food, pizza, smoothie bowls

White Sand Beach seafood restaurants: Grilled fish, tom yum soup, green curry

Bang Bao seafood on stilts: Fresh catch of the day, ocean views

Splurge Meals (400+ THB / $12+)

Barrio Bonito (White Sand Beach) - Mexican food (yes, in Thailand)

Invito al Cibo (Kai Bae) - Italian, wood-fired pizza

The Chill (Bang Bao) - Upscale Thai fusion, sunset views

Pro tip: Self-cater breakfast (fruit, yogurt, coffee from 7-Eleven), eat street food for lunch, splurge on a nice seafood dinner once or twice.

Transport: Getting There & Getting Around

Getting to Koh Chang from Bangkok

Option 1: Minivan + Ferry Combo

• Cost: 300-400 THB ($9-12) one-way
• Duration: 5-6 hours total (4 hours to Trat, 1 hour ferry)
• Where to book: Khao San Road travel agents, Ekkamai bus terminal, or online (12Go Asia)
• Ferries: Leave from Laem Ngop pier, multiple departures daily (7am-5pm)

Option 2: Bus + Ferry

• Cost: Cheaper (~250 THB / $7.50), slower (6-7 hours)
• Where: Government buses from Bangkok's Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai)

Option 3: Private Transfer

• Cost: ~2,500 THB ($75) for private minivan (splits cost if in a group)
• Pros: Direct to your hotel, comfortable, no waiting

Pro tip: Book return tickets when you arrive (Koh Chang to Bangkok sells out during peak season).

Getting Around Koh Chang

Songthaews (shared pickup trucks):

• Cost: 50-100 THB ($1.50-3) depending on distance
• Route: Main road only (White Sand Beach → Lonely Beach → Bang Bao)
• How it works: Wave one down, tell driver your destination, pay at the end
• Downside: No set schedule, won't go to waterfalls or east coast

Scooter rental:

• Cost: 200-300 THB/day ($6-9)
• Where: Every beach has rental shops
• License: Technically need international license, but not always enforced
• Road conditions: Main road is paved but STEEP and curvy. Accidents are common.
• Helmet: Wear one (police checkpoints are rare but fines are 500 THB)

Safety warning: Koh Chang's roads are some of the most dangerous in Thailand. The west coast road is steep, winding, and has sharp hairpin turns. Accidents happen DAILY, especially during rainy season. If you're not confident on a scooter, use songthaews or rent a bicycle on flat sections.

Taxi: Expensive (500-1,000 THB for short rides). Only use if scooter isn't an option.

Budget Breakdown

Budget Backpacker ($25-40/day)

• Accommodation: 200-350 THB ($6-10 dorm bed)
• Food: 300-500 THB ($9-15) - street food + hostel meals
• Transport: 200 THB ($6) - scooter rental
• Activities: 200 THB ($6) - waterfall entry
• Beers/Nightlife: 150-300 THB ($4.50-9) - a few beers
• Total: 1,050-1,550 THB ($31-46)

Mid-Range Backpacker ($45-70/day)

• Accommodation: 500-800 THB ($15-24 private bungalow)
• Food: 600-800 THB ($18-24) - mix of street food + restaurants
• Transport: 250 THB ($7.50) - scooter
• Activities: 1,200 THB ($36) - snorkel trip or dive
• Nightlife: 300 THB ($9)
• Total: 2,850-3,350 THB ($85-100)

Ways to save money:

• Self-cater breakfast
• Skip guided tours (DIY waterfall hikes)
• Share scooter rental with a friend
• Drink at 7-Eleven prices before hitting beach bars

3-Day Koh Chang Adventure Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Waterfall Chase

Morning:

• Arrive via ferry (aim for morning arrival)
• Check into Lonely Beach hostel
• Rent scooter (200-250 THB)

Afternoon:

• Ride to Klong Neung Waterfall (8am, beat the crowds)
• Then Klong Plu Waterfall (swim and picnic)
• Stop at viewpoint on main road for photos

Evening:

• Sunset at Kai Bae Beach
• Dinner at Lonely Beach beach bar
• Bonfire and beers on the beach

Day 2: Diving or Snorkeling + Bang Bao

Morning:

• Either: Full-day dive trip (2-3 dives, ~3,000 THB)
• Or: Snorkel day trip to Koh Rang/Koh Wai (1,000 THB)

Evening:

• Explore Bang Bao fishing village
• Seafood dinner on stilts over the bay
• Sunset views

Day 3: Kayaking & Elephant Sanctuary

Morning:

• Ethical elephant sanctuary visit (half-day, 2,000 THB)
• Learn about rescue stories, feed elephants, walk alongside

Afternoon:

• Kayaking in Salak Phet Bay (800 THB guided tour)
• Paddle through mangroves, spot wildlife

Evening:

• Farewell dinner at White Sand Beach
• Pack for departure tomorrow

Pro tip: If you have 4-6 days, add a day trip to Koh Mak, explore the east coast by scooter, or just chill on Lonely Beach with a book.

Final Tips for Koh Chang Backpackers

Bring cash: ATMs are scarce outside White Sand Beach. Withdrawal fees are steep (220 THB).

Download maps offline: Google Maps works, but cell service is spotty in the jungle. Download offline maps before exploring.

Respect the national park: Don't litter, don't feed wildlife, stay on marked trails.

Waterproof phone case: Essential for kayaking, snorkeling, waterfall swims.

Mosquito repellent: Jungle = mosquitoes. Bring DEET spray or buy at 7-Eleven.

Reef-safe sunscreen: Protect coral reefs. Brands like Stream2Sea are available online.

Travel insurance: Scooter accidents are common. Make sure you're covered.

Learn basic Thai phrases: "Sawasdee krap/ka" (hello), "kop khun krap/ka" (thank you), "tao rai?" (how much?)

Weather check: Rainy season (June-Oct) means ferry cancellations, muddy trails, and rough seas. Dry season (Nov-Feb) is ideal.

Extend your stay: Most backpackers plan 3-4 days and end up staying a week. Koh Chang has that effect.

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Ready to Explore Thailand's Jungle Island?

Koh Chang isn't the easiest Thai island to reach, and it's not the most developed—but that's exactly why it's special. This is an island for backpackers who want adventure over Instagram-perfect sunsets, waterfalls over beach clubs, and jungle trails over party hostels.

If you're the type who gets excited about diving with whale sharks, hiking to hidden waterfalls, kayaking through mangroves, and meeting elephants ethically, Koh Chang should be at the top of your Thailand itinerary.

Pack your trekking shoes, rent a scooter (carefully), and get ready to discover one of Thailand's last remaining jungle islands.

Next up: Check out our Koh Tao diving guide or Northern Thailand trekking itinerary to keep planning your Thailand adventure.