Koh Madsum (Pig Island) - Image 1
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Koh Madsum (Pig Island) Koh Samui

3.1
·47 reviews·, Thailand

Koh Madsum, or Pig Island, offers a unique tropical escape with its famous swimming pigs and pristine beaches near Koh Samui.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, calmer pigs

CrowdLow
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Koh Madsum (Pig Island) - Image 1

Koh Madsum (Pig Island) Koh Samui

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, calmer pigs

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Koh Madsum, or Pig Island, offers a unique tropical escape with its famous swimming pigs and pristine beaches near Koh Samui.

3.1
(47 reviews)

"A must-visit if you're in Koh Samui for a unique and unforgettable animal encounter!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🤝 Respect the Pigs

Be gentle! Avoid pulling ears or forcing interactions. Arrive early for a calmer experience.

🚤 Boat Trip Options

Choose private longtail boats for flexibility or group tours for budget. Combine with Koh Tan snorkeling.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Swimming Pigs

The Swimming Pigs

Koh Madsum Beach

Meet and interact with the famous free-roaming pigs that love to swim in the ocean. A truly unique wildlife encounter!

TikTokInstagram
Pristine Beaches

Pristine Beaches

Koh Madsum Coastline

Relax on the soft white sands and swim in the clear turquoise waters surrounding Pig Island. Perfect for a tropical escape.

Instagram+1
Snorkeling at Koh Tan

Snorkeling at Koh Tan

Offshore from Koh Madsum

Explore the underwater world with a snorkeling trip to the nearby island of Koh Tan, known for its marine life.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Pig Island Etiquette

While the pigs are friendly, remember they are still animals. Avoid pulling their ears or forcing them for photos. Arrive early to avoid overwhelming them and ensure a calmer experience for both you and the pigs. TikTokInstagram

Boat Trip Essentials

Most visits involve a boat trip from Koh Samui. Private longtail boats offer flexibility, while group tours can be more budget-friendly. Factor in travel time and consider combining Pig Island with nearby Koh Tan for snorkeling. TikTokInstagram+1

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, calmer pigs
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

THE SWIMMING PIGS ADVENTURES #bucketlist #swimmingpigs #adventuretime #fyp #follow
@mandiep64
163.5K likes • 1.3M views

🤝 Respect the Pigs

Be gentle! Avoid pulling ears or forcing interactions. Arrive early for a calmer experience. InstagramReddit

🚤 Boat Trip Options

Choose private longtail boats for flexibility or group tours for budget. Combine with Koh Tan snorkeling. TikTokInstagram

I do love them though 😂🫶🏽 📍 Pig Island, Koh Samui #pigisland #pigbeach #kohsamui #thailandtravel #thailandtiktok #traveltiktok
@shanice.travel
87.8K likes • 1.9M views
Pig Island in Thailand near Koh Samui🏝️🐷 📍Koh Madsum 📹 @linhforthehuynh
thailand_map
1.5K likes • 77K views

☀️ Sun Protection

The sun is strong! Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for a comfortable day. TikTok

🍎 Bring Snacks (Carefully!)

Pigs love snacks, but be mindful not to overfeed or let them bite. Instagram

Koh Madsum also know as ‘Pig Island’ 🐷 A must visit if you’re in Koh Samui! 🐷 I booked a whole day trip with @tripguruofficial which included - - Koh Madsum island - Koh Tean Island - Snorkelling (+ equipment rental) - Lunch - Kayaking - Tour Guide 📍Koh Madsum (Pig Island) • • • *press trip #thailand #thailandtravel #travel #travelthailand #kohmadsum #pigisland #backpacking
montanadarby
3.4K likes • 213.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🤝 Respect the Pigs

Be gentle! Avoid pulling ears or forcing interactions. Arrive early for a calmer experience. InstagramReddit

🚤 Boat Trip Options

Choose private longtail boats for flexibility or group tours for budget. Combine with Koh Tan snorkeling. TikTokInstagram

☀️ Sun Protection

The sun is strong! Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for a comfortable day. TikTok

🍎 Bring Snacks (Carefully!)

Pigs love snacks, but be mindful not to overfeed or let them bite. Instagram

📸 Camera Ready

Capture unique moments with the swimming pigs and beautiful island scenery. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

3.1
(47 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Reviews for Pig Island are mixed. While many find the unique experience of swimming pigs delightful and a bucket-list item, some visitors feel the island itself is underwhelming and can become overcrowded. Concerns have also been raised about the welfare of the pigs and instances of aggressive behavior due to hunger or mistreatment.

"Koh Madsum, or “Pig Island”🐷, is a small island just off Koh Samui, famous for its friendly pigs that roam the beach🐖

Best time is early morning🌞 is less crowded and cooler.

Bring essentials: Reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, towel, swimwear, snacks/cash."

Annie Yong

"I book with Apiviator "oh Hoo ", we got pick up then 45 minutes on a speedboat just 8 people. The guide was amazing. Mr two as he like to be called. First stop Pig island. We fed lthe pig and the dogs. It was very very funny. They feel comfortable with people since they always lived like this since the island was bought. Very surprised about the cleanliness of the beach I was expecting to be surrounded by pig poo but didn't happen. We had 1h 30 minutes, so we walk away from people and pigs, on the right side, lay under the shadow of a tree and swim. It seems like a desert island. At 12.30 our operator organize the lunch, we ate on the provide bench. Everything was delicious. Something spice, vegetarian option, salad, not spicy food and watermelon. After we stop to do snorkelling other 45 minutes. They gave us all snorkelling equipment. It was good but the only thing I would change it s sapping the two island. Starting with snorkelling ending with pig island and lunc. Lovely experience. 14 April 2025"

Raffaella Zorzoli

"The atmosphere of the island is excellent. The weather may be hot. That is the charm of Thailand.
I would like to commend my tour operator. Who can manage the time well. I am not sure if the people on this island are Thai or Burmese foreigners. Because communication and use of Thai language is not fluent.
The overall picture of the island is The highlight of the island is the number of pigs for tourists to take pictures. But that's it. You have to buy food to feed the pigs. Which are hungry and eat all the time. It makes me wonder if there are no tourists. Will these pigs be able to find food to eat by themselves in nature?

Another thing I saw was a lot of plastic waste on the island. Which is different from traveling in Europe where there is no plastic waste at various tourist attractions.
Another thing that is clear is the tour prices for Thais and foreigners. Which in Europe is not seen as well. Because everyone will get the tour price at the same price, the same standard.
I am a Thai who has been traveling in Thailand for a long time. I understand what I will encounter. The changing atmosphere of tourism. People try to extract money from tourists' pockets as much as possible. Without considering the atmosphere and charm of traditional Thailand. Everyone is looking to take advantage of tourists. In addition to not creating an impression, it also makes There is no news sharing and writing on the internet, which is a record that has been paired with the internet for a long time. However, I love Thailand and would like to support the service providers who are involved in the management of tourism on the island. They should improve the tourism atmosphere to return to a friendly atmosphere rather than an atmosphere of the industry that emphasizes profit and draws money from tourists. Thank you very much."

ThaiEurop Channel

What People Like

Unique swimming pigs
Beautiful beaches
Fun photo opportunities

What People Dislike

Overcrowding
Pigs can be aggressive
Snorkeling is mediocre

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to reach Koh Madsum (Pig Island) is by boat from Koh Samui. You can hire a private longtail boat from piers like Thong Krut, which takes about 20 minutes.TikTok Alternatively, many tour operators offer half-day or full-day trips that include hotel pickup and drop-off, often combining Pig Island with snorkeling at Koh Tan.Instagram+1 Prices for private boats can vary, with some offering luxury options.Instagram

Thong Krut Pier is frequently mentioned as a departure point for boats to Pig Island.TikTok It's a good idea to check with local tour operators or your accommodation for the most convenient and cost-effective options.

The boat ride from Koh Samui to Koh Madsum (Pig Island) is relatively short, typically around 20-30 minutes depending on the type of boat and sea conditions.TikTok

Yes, numerous group tours are available for Pig Island, often including snorkeling at Koh Tan. These can be booked through platforms like Klook Instagram or directly with local tour agencies. They usually offer a convenient package with transport and activities.

Absolutely! Renting a private longtail boat is a popular option, offering more flexibility and a personalized experience. Some luxury private boat tours are also available.Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While there isn't a formal entrance ticket for Pig Island itself, the cost is typically incorporated into boat trip prices. Whether you hire a private boat or join a tour, the boat hire and any associated island fees will be part of the overall expense.Instagram

Costs can vary significantly. Private longtail boat trips might start around 4500 THB for a 5-hour tour for a small group [^Review], while half-day tours booked through platforms like Klook can be around $70 AUD (approx. 1600 THB).Instagram Luxury private tours can be more expensive.Instagram

There are no specific entrance fees for the pigs themselves. The cost is associated with getting to the island via boat and any services provided by tour operators.

Most tours include boat transportation to Koh Madsum, time to interact with the pigs, and often a stop at Koh Tan for snorkeling. Some packages also include lunch, kayaking, and equipment rental.Instagram

You can hire a private longtail boat directly from piers like Thong Krut, which gives you the freedom to spend as much or as little time as you like on the island without being tied to a tour schedule.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main attraction is interacting with the friendly, free-roaming pigs that are known to swim in the sea.TikTokInstagram You can also relax on the beautiful white sandy beaches, swim in the clear waters, and take photos with the unique island inhabitants.Instagram+1 Many visitors combine their trip with snorkeling at the nearby island of Koh Tan.Instagram

The pigs are generally described as friendly and curious, being accustomed to human interaction.Instagram+1 However, some visitors have noted that they can become aggressive over food if hungry, and caution is advised to avoid being bitten.InstagramReddit

While many visitors interact closely with the pigs, it's important to be cautious. Some reviews mention instances of pigs being hungry and potentially biting if provoked or if food is present.Instagram It's also advisable to avoid touching them excessively to ensure their well-being and prevent potential infections.Reddit

Light, comfortable clothing suitable for a tropical climate is recommended. Bring swimwear for the beach and water activities. A hat and sunglasses are essential for sun protection.TikTok

Yes, children can visit Pig Island, and many find the experience exciting. However, adult supervision is crucial, especially around the pigs and the water. Some reviews suggest children might get bored quickly if they are not actively engaged [^Review].

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are usually facilities on Pig Island where you can purchase food and drinks. Many tours also include lunch as part of the package.Instagram

Food options typically include local Thai dishes and refreshments. If your tour includes lunch, it's often a simple but satisfying meal served on the island.

Bringing some snacks is generally acceptable, but be mindful of the pigs. They are attracted to food, so keep your belongings secure and avoid feeding them directly unless instructed by tour guides. Instagram

While specific options may vary, Thai cuisine often includes vegetarian dishes. It's advisable to inquire with your tour operator or the food vendors on the island about available choices.

Some vendors on the island may sell alcoholic beverages, but it's not guaranteed. If you wish to have a specific drink, it might be best to bring your own, keeping in mind responsible consumption.

📸 📸 Photography

The most iconic photo opportunities involve the pigs, especially when they are swimming or interacting with visitors.TikTokInstagram+1 The beautiful white sandy beaches and turquoise waters also make for stunning tropical shots.Instagram

Yes, taking photos with the pigs is a highlight for many visitors. However, be respectful and avoid forcing the pigs into poses or pulling them for pictures. Some reviews mention witnessing poor treatment of pigs for photos [^Review].

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for most visitors. If you plan on snorkeling, a waterproof camera or phone case is highly recommended to capture underwater moments.Instagram

There are generally no specific restrictions on photography on the public areas of the island. However, always be mindful of other visitors and the animals' comfort.

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations regarding drone operation in protected or tourist areas before flying. Respect privacy and avoid disturbing wildlife.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Pig Island can be a fun and unique outing for families. The novelty of swimming pigs is often a hit with children, offering a memorable wildlife encounter.TikTok+1 However, it's important to manage expectations. Some reviews suggest that children might lose interest after a short while if they aren't actively engaged [^Review]. Ensure constant supervision, especially near the water and around the pigs, as they can be boisterous. Bringing snacks is a good idea, but be cautious about how you feed them to avoid any accidental bites.Instagram

Consider booking a private boat tour for more flexibility, allowing you to tailor the trip to your family's pace. Combining Pig Island with a snorkeling stop at Koh Tan can add another dimension to the day, though the snorkeling experience itself can be variable [^Review]. The short boat ride from Koh Samui is usually manageable for most children. Remember to pack essentials like sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water to keep everyone comfortable under the tropical sun.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, opting for group tours is the most economical way to visit Pig Island. These tours often bundle transportation, boat hire, and activities like snorkeling at a fixed price, which can be significantly cheaper than private charters.Instagram Look for deals on platforms like Klook, and keep an eye out for discount codes.Instagram

While private longtail boats offer more freedom, they come at a higher cost. If you're traveling solo or as a couple on a budget, you might consider trying to find other travelers at your accommodation or at the pier to share the cost of a private boat, though this isn't always feasible. Packing your own snacks and water can also help save money on the island, where prices for food and drinks might be slightly inflated. Remember that the cost of getting to Koh Samui itself will be the primary expense, so factor that into your overall budget.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Pig Island offers a unique backdrop for photography, with its charming pigs and picturesque tropical setting.TikTokInstagram The most sought-after shots involve the pigs interacting with the water or beach, creating whimsical and memorable images.TikTokInstagram Be patient and observant to capture these candid moments. Remember to be respectful of the animals and avoid intrusive photography that might distress them [^Review].

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the Pigs of Koh Madsum

Koh Madsum, famously known as Pig Island, owes its unique charm to its resident pigs. These aren't wild animals but rather feral domestic pigs that have become accustomed to the island environment and human visitors. The story often told is that a local resident, Mr. Kitt, brought a few pigs to the island, and they have since thrived there.Instagram+1 They are known for their playful nature, often seen swimming in the clear waters and lounging on the sandy beaches.

While the pigs are a major draw, it's crucial to approach them with respect and care. Some visitors have reported witnessing instances where pigs were treated poorly for photos, or became aggressive due to hunger [^Review]. It's important to remember they are animals and should be treated as such. Avoid forcing interactions, pulling their ears, or overfeeding them. Arriving early in the day can offer a more peaceful experience for both you and the pigs, as the island can get quite busy later on.TikTok

Responsible tourism practices ensure the well-being of these unique island inhabitants. By being mindful of their space and needs, visitors can enjoy a memorable and ethical encounter with the swimming pigs of Koh Madsum.

Navigating Boat Trips and Island Hopping

Getting to Koh Madsum is an adventure in itself, primarily involving boat travel from Koh Samui. The most common and flexible option is hiring a private longtail boat. This allows you to set your own schedule, spend more time at Pig Island, or even combine it with visits to nearby islands like Koh Tan for snorkeling.TikTokInstagram+1 Prices for private charters can vary, so it's worth comparing options. Some companies offer luxury private boat experiences for a more comfortable journey.Instagram

For those on a tighter budget or preferring a more structured experience, group tours are widely available. These often depart from Thong Krut Pier and typically include hotel transfers, boat hire, and sometimes lunch and snorkeling gear.Instagram Platforms like Klook are a good place to find and book these tours, often with discount codes available.Instagram A popular itinerary is a half-day trip that covers both Pig Island and snorkeling at Koh Tan, offering a taste of two distinct experiences in one outing.Instagram+1

When planning your boat trip, consider the duration. A 5-hour tour is common for a combined Pig Island and Koh Tan excursion [^Review]. Be aware that while snorkeling at Koh Tan is an option, some visitors have found the visibility and marine life to be less impressive than anticipated [^Review]. Ultimately, the choice between private and group tours depends on your budget, desired flexibility, and whether you prefer a more intimate or social travel experience.

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