Answers to Your Questions about Koh Chang
These are some of the common questions that I get asked or I see being asked on travel forums or on Facebook pages. And below them you’ll find some more detailed information about topics that visitors often email me about.
Caution is advised as the roads are be steep and winding in some areas. And can be treacherous and slippery in the rain. Accidents happen numerous times per day. Most not too serious. But as travel insurance rarely covers scooter accidents if you damage the bike you’ll have to pay for it plus hospital / medical costs. Wear a helmet. Drive slowly and make sure the brakes and tyres on your scooter are in good condition.
Mobile internet coverage, including 5G, is widespread on the island. Signals only drop if you’re somewhere remote, for example trekking in the middle of the jungle. SIM cards and packages are cheapo. You can buy a Tourist Sim at the airport but it is also possible to buy a normal SIM card and top it up at any 7-eleven, which is a cheaper option. But note that you must show your passport when buying a SIM card.
Planning Your Trip to Koh Chang
Getting There: Transportation Options from Bangkok and Beyond
Reaching Koh Chang involves a multi-stage journey for most international visitors, often starting in Bangkok. Air travel offers the quickest route to the island, with daily flights operated by Bangkok Airways from Bangkok to Trat Airport (TDX) on the mainland.
Upon arrival at Trat Airport, travelers can easily find songthaew or minibus transfer services that will transport them to one of the ferry piers and subsequently to their chosen hotels on Koh Chang.
For those preferring to travel by road, direct bus services operate from Bangkok to the ferry terminals that serve Koh Chang. Buses depart from Ekkamai Bus Station on Sukhumvit Rd, Bangkok, offering a more budget-friendly alternative to flying. The journey by road from Bangkok typically takes around 5 hours to the mainland pier.
A more convenient option is a private transfer by car or minibuses from Bangkok or other locations to Koh Chang. These private options often include the cost of the ferry tickets, providing a door-to-door service that simplifies the travel process. You’ll find numerous transport providers offering services on 12go.com
The final stage of the journey to Koh Chang involves a ferry crossing from the mainland. Since 2023 there has only been one ferry company operating services. Vehicle ferries run from the mainland pier at Ao Thammachat to Ao Sapporot pier on Koh Chang. The ferry journey typically lasts around 30 minutes and boats depart regularly between 06:30 – 18:30. There is a timetable with hourly departures. But outside the low season boats are far more frequent.
Travel to Koh Chang is also possible from nearby islands. During the high tourist season (October to May), there are several direct boat services connecting Koh Kood, Koh Mak and Koh Chang. In the low season, there is just one inter-island service daily, operated by Boonsiri Ferry.
Best Time to Visit: Understanding Koh Chang’s Seasons
The timing of a visit to Koh Chang significantly impacts the travel experience due to its tropical climate, which is characterized by distinct seasons. The cool season, spanning from November to February, is widely regarded as the most favorable time to visit. During these months, the weather is generally cooler and drier, with temperatures ranging comfortably from 20°C to 30°C. This period experiences the least amount of rainfall and enjoys abundant sunny days, making it ideal for exploring the island and engaging in outdoor activities. However, as this coincides with the peak tourist season, so visitors should anticipate larger crowds and higher prices for accommodation.
The hot season, from March to May, brings higher temperatures and increased humidity, with temperatures potentially climbing to between 30°C and 35°C. While the days are typically long and sunny, occasional short and heavy showers can occur as the season progresses.
The rainy season, which extends from June to October, is influenced by the monsoon, resulting in a high chance of daily rain. This maybe a short shower or an overnight thunderstorm. A full day of heavy rain is quite rare. September and October are typically the wettest months. Despite the increased rainfall, this season offers the advantages of lower prices and fewer tourists, providing a quieter experience. However, the rain can affect outdoor activities and travel plans, and some businesses might have reduced operating hours.
Visa and Entry Requirements for Tourists
Understanding the visa and entry requirements is crucial for international tourists planning a trip to Koh Chang. Thailand has a Visa Exemption Scheme that allows citizens of many countries to enter the country for tourism without a visa for a specified period. Initially, this period was typically 30 days, but it has been subject to changes and, as of mid 2025, is 60 days. This can also be extended by an additional 30 days at the immigration office on Koh Chang.
For citizens of certain other countries, a Visa on Arrival (VOA) may be available, permitting a shorter stay, often around 15 – 30 days. This type of visa typically involves paying a fee and meeting specific requirements upon arrival.
Budgeting Your Trip: Costs and Currency
When planning a trip to Koh Chang, understanding the local currency and the general cost of living is essential for effective budgeting. The official currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB). Compared to other popular tourist islands in Thailand, Koh Chang generally offers a lower cost of living. This affordability is a significant draw for many travelers.
Accommodation costs on Koh Chang vary widely, catering to a range of budgets, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. For instance, hostel dorms might cost between 275 and 550 THB per night, while private rooms in hostels could range from 1,035 to 2,070 THB. Guesthouses and budget bungalows offer another affordable option, typically priced between 415 and 1,200 THB per night. Mid-range resorts are prevalent along the west coast beaches, and luxury hotels can cost upwards of 2,500 THB per night. Platforms like Airbnb also provide a variety of private rooms and apartments, with prices ranging from 200 to 2,750 THB per night. Given the diverse range of options, potential tourists frequently inquire about the cost of accommodation across different categories to find options that suit their budget.
Food costs on Koh Chang are also varied. Affordable and delicious street food can be found for 70 to 130 THB per dish, while meals at casual restaurants typically range from 100 to 230 THB. Western-style meals are generally more expensive, costing between 175 and 455 THB per dish. The availability of a wide range of dining options, from budget-friendly local fare to more upscale international cuisine, is a significant aspect of the travel experience, and tourists often seek information about the variety and cost of these options.
The cost of activities and tours on Koh Chang depends on the type of experience. For example, snorkeling or diving trips, visits to waterfalls, or jungle trekking excursions will have different price points. Travelers planning their budget will naturally want to factor in the expenses associated with these activities.
Transportation costs on the island are another important consideration. Songthaews, which are converted pickup trucks serving as shared taxis, are the primary mode of public transport. While they operate on public transport prices during the day, fares can increase after dark. Scooter rentals are also a popular and often more economical way to get around for independent travelers. Understanding the costs associated with these different transportation methods is essential for tourists planning their island exploration.
To provide a general idea of potential expenses, some guides suggest daily budgets based on different travel styles. For example, a backpacker might budget around 1,750 THB per day, while a mid-range traveler could expect to spend about 3,100 THB, and an upscale experience might cost 5,000+ THB per day. For those looking to save money, staying in areas like Lonely Beach and choosing local dining options are often recommended.
Ultimately, potential visitors want to know if Koh Chang is a budget-friendly destination and how to effectively manage their expenses during their stay. Opting for budget-conscious choices in accommodation and dining can indeed lead to significant savings on overall trip costs.
Things to See and Do on Koh Chang
Exploring Nature: Beaches, Waterfalls, and National Park
Koh Chang’s natural beauty is a major draw for tourists. The island’s diverse beaches offer the usual picturesque settings for relaxation and recreation. Beyond the beaches, the island is home to several waterfalls. Klong Plu Waterfall is the most popular, featuring a large pool at the foot of the falls. Other noteworthy smaller waterfalls include Kai Bae, Klong Jao Leuam, Than Mayom, and Klong Nonsi. It’s important to note that the flow of some waterfalls may diminish or cease entirely depending on the season, particularly during the dry months.
The Mu Ko Chang National Marine Park encompasses a significant area, including around 75% of Koh Chang island plus numerous surrounding smaller islands. This protected area offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and hiking. Entrance fees may apply for certain areas within the park – for example the popular snorkeling spots around Koh Rang.
For those who enjoy trekking, Koh Chang has several popular hiking trails, but please don’t try hiking alone. Always go with a guide. Every year inexperienced hikers get lost in the jungle and need to be rescued, having overestimated their ability. The island also features mangrove forests, which can be explored via kayak or gondola tours. The Salakkok and Salakphet areas are particularly known for their mangrove ecosystems.
Activities and Adventures: Diving, Snorkeling, Hiking, and More
Koh Chang is renowned as a popular destination for diving, boasting healthy coral reefs and intriguing shipwrecks, most notably the HTMS Chang. The optimal time for diving is generally from October to May, when sea conditions are calm and visibility is good. Water temperatures typically range between 28°C and 30°C, with visibility from 10 to 20 meters. The diving sites around Koh Chang cater to all experience levels, from beginners looking to get their SDI/PADI Open Water certification to experienced divers interested in exploring the wrecks and reefs.
Snorkeling is another widely enjoyed activity, with numerous opportunities available around the main island and on boat excursions to the smaller islands within the marine park. Many boat trips include lunch and visit several islands, offering a great day out.
For those who prefer to stay closer to the surface, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) are popular, especially in the calmer waters of the west coast beaches. Rentals for kayaks and SUP boards are readily available at many beaches and resorts.
Discovering local culture is also a key part of the tourist experience, and cooking classes offer a hands-on way to learn about and prepare authentic Thai cuisine. There are several excellent cooking schools on Koh Chang. It’s a fun activity for a family and you will eat way too much. Additionally, visitors will find opportunities to learn or watch Muay Thai boxing, a traditional Thai martial art. During high season Muay Thao fights are staged a few times a week on White Sand and Kai Bae beaches
For soft adventure seekers, Koh Chang offers ATV riding and the Treetop Adventure Park, which provides an exhilarating experience amidst the forest canopy with zip lines, rope walks, and swinging bridges. Sailing trips are also available for those wishing to explore the coastline and nearby islands from the water.
Ethical elephant encounters are a topic of growing concern for tourists. True ethical sanctuaries, such as Elephant Nature Park, are not located on Koh Chang. The existing elephant camps on the island primarily offer activities like trekking and bathing. It is important to be aware of the ethical issues associated with elephant riding and the practice of keeping elephants in chains.
A visit to Bang Bao Fishing Village offers a unique cultural experience. This village, built on stilts over the water, has evolved into a tourist hub with shops and restaurants. It also serves as a departure point for many snorkeling and diving tours.
Local Culture and Experiences
It is possible to visit any of the small, village temples ‘Wats’ on Koh Chang. Wat Khlong Phrao is one such temple and is where local festivals are celebrated. Indulging in a traditional Thai massage is another quintessential Thai experience widely available on the beaches and in spas and massage shops across Koh Chang.
For a glimpse into a less tourist-centric side of the island, exploring local villages like Ban Salakphet, located in the southeast of the island is a rewarding experience. Villages offer a more authentic view of daily life on Koh Chang. Spend a day away from the beach visiting the east and south east of the island and you won’t regret it. :-)
Practical Information for Your Visit
Getting Around the Island: Transportation Options
The primary mode of public transportation on the island is songthaews, which are shared pick up truck taxis. Flag one down roadside and agree on the fare with the driver before starting a journey. Tourists should be aware that songthaew prices will be higher at night.
Scooter rentals are widely available across Koh Chang and are a very popular option for independent exploration of the island. However, caution is strongly advised due to the island’s steep and winding roads, which can be particularly hazardous during the rainy season. It is essential to wear a helmet at all times and to ensure you have a valid driving license. Your travel insurance company will probably use the lack of a license as a reason not to pay any claims in the event of an accident. Figure on 200 – 350 Baht / day, depending on type of scooter and it’s condition. Discounts are available for long term rental.
Car rentals are less common on Koh Chang but are available at most hotels and tour agencies. Expect to pay 800 – 1,400 Baht/ day. Depending on the vehicle. A small automatic car is fine for getting around the island.
Staying Connected: Internet and Communication
Staying connected is important for many travelers, and Koh Chang offers various options for internet and communication. Fiber optic internet is now available in many parts of the island, providing fast connection speeds, sometimes reaching up to 100Mbps. However, older ADSL connections still exist in some areas.
Wi-Fi is almost universally available in resorts, both in common areas and within guest rooms, although the quality of the connection can vary. Many smaller coffee shops, bars, and restaurants also offer free Wi-Fi to their patrons. Additionally, mobile internet coverage, including 4G and 5G in many areas, is generally good across the island, extending even to offshore locations during snorkeling trips.
For mobile phone usage, purchasing a local SIM card is a convenient option. Charging cables and adapters are readily available for purchase in minimarts and 7-Elevens across the island. Thailand primarily uses Type C and Type O plug types for electricity, with Type A and B being phased out. Visitors from countries using other plug types, like the UK’s Type G, will need an adapter. The electricity supply on Koh Chang is 220 volts.
Health and Safety Tips for Tourists
Ensuring one’s health and safety is a primary concern for many people when traveling. Koh Chang has various healthcare facilities available, including hospitals and doctors, with Bangkok International Clinic on White Sand beach offering a very good, if expensive, standard of care. Due to the potentially high costs of treatment in private hospitals, it is strongly recommended that visitors have comprehensive health insurance. It seems that barely a week goes by without headlines in a UK newspaper about a family crowdfunding to bring an injured relative back home after a motorbike accident. In case of emergencies, the relevant telephone numbers are: Police (191), Ambulance (1669), and Fire (199). Contact information for the Tourist Police on Koh Chang is also available. Access to healthcare and emergency services is a key piece of information for tourists.
Regarding vaccinations, it is generally recommended to be up-to-date on Polio, Tetanus, and Hepatitis A and B before traveling to Koh Chang. It is always best to consult with a doctor before your trip for personalized medical advice. While Malaria and Dengue fever are very rare on the island, mosquitoes are present, so using insect repellent is advisable. These health precautions are important for minimizing potential health risks.
Water safety is another consideration. Tap water in Thailand is generally not recommended for drinking. Bottled water is widely available.
In terms of general safety, Koh Chang is considered a safe destination for tourists, although petty theft can occur. Don’t leave valuable belongings unattended on beaches or sun loungers.
Finally, visitors should be aware of the presence of sandflies on quieter stretches of beach. Taking precautions such as using coconut oil and insect repellent can help minimize any discomfort from these bugs. All pharmacies on the island stock strong cortisone cream which will relieve itching.
Money Matters: ATMs and Currency Exchange
Koh Chang has a good network of ATMs located in the main tourist areas. However, ATMs might be less readily available in more remote parts of the island, so it is advisable to plan accordingly. It’s also common for ATMs in Thailand to charge a 220 Baht fee for foreign card transactions.
Currency exchange services can be found in the major tourist areas of Koh Chang. Exchange rates can vary slightly between different providers. Credit and debit cards are accepted at larger resorts and many restaurants; however, smaller establishments may add a surcharge, typically between 3% and 5%, to cover the transaction costs. In local restaurants, bars, shops, and when paying for tours and excursions, cash is king.
Tipping Etiquette in Thailand
In Thailand, tipping is not a mandatory practice but is generally appreciated as a gesture of gratitude for good service. There is no expectation to tip market vendors, bus or tuk-tuk drivers, security guards, or cashiers at convenience stores. For services like massage therapy, housekeeping in hotels, and bellhops, a small tip of 20 to 50 Baht is often given. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving a tip with the server of 50 – 100 Baht for good service is common. For private transfers, a tip ranging from 50 to 500 Baht, depending on the length of the journey, is considered appropriate. For tour guides, a tip of 100 to 300 Baht is a reasonable amount to show appreciation for their services.
