Khao Yai Waterfall
Tucked into the jungle of Koh Samui's Na Mueang area, this waterfall offers a quieter, more natural alternative to the island's beach scene. Unlike the more visited Na Mueang waterfalls nearby, this spot remains largely non-commercial and uncrowded — visitors frequently find themselves alone in the surroundings, with jungle pathways, natural pools, and the sound of cascading water providing a genuine sense of escape. It sits conveniently along the route to Tarnim Magic Garden, making it an easy addition to a half-day inland excursion.
The setting is shaded and noticeably cooler than the coast, with small trails running around the base and steps leading up toward the top of the falls. The atmosphere is relaxed rather than dramatic — reviewers note it is scenic and pleasant without being breathtaking, so it rewards visitors who arrive with realistic expectations. A nearby cafe with free roadside parking makes access straightforward, and durian farms in the surrounding area add a local agricultural character to the visit.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Khao Yai Waterfall, round out your day in Koh Samui with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Beautiful and cool after rain, walked down the road from a cafe with free parking on the main road, we were the only ones there. You can walk around it on nice little pathways. Cafe had a pretty good view too and nice deck/garden.
Great waterfall with a little tracking 🙏
Nice waterfall, great for making a break on a hot day (as it's in shadows) on the way to Tarnim Magic Garden. Nice view, but not breathtaking. Don't expect too much.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 271 reviews on Google.
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Free to enter, quick to walk, and the 18-armed Guanyin rising out of the lake is the reason to come.
Khao Yai Waterfall: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Khao Yai Waterfall worth visiting?
Khao Yai Waterfall holds a 4.0★ rating from 271 Google reviews — a strong rating for activities & tours in Koh Samui.
When is the best time to visit Khao Yai Waterfall?
The best months to visit Koh Samui are January – August, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in July – August & December — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: October – December (Gulf Coast monsoon).
Where is Khao Yai Waterfall located?
Khao Yai Waterfall is at F283+R7F, Na Mueang, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84140, Thailand, in Koh Samui. Getting around Koh Samui: Songthaews (fixed routes around the ring road); Motorbike or scooter rental.
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
January – August
Avoid: October – December (Gulf Coast monsoon)
Rainy season
October – December
Avg. temperature
24°C – 32°C(75°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: July – August & December
Getting there
Koh Samui Airport (USM) has direct flights from Bangkok and regional hubs (Bangkok Airways monopoly). The ferry from Surat Thani takes ~1.5 hrs and it's cheaper.
Getting around
- •Songthaews (fixed routes around the ring road)
- •Motorbike or scooter rental
- •Taxis (metered or negotiate upfront)
- •Grab available in main areas
Where to stay near Khao Yai Waterfall
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Tips for Visiting Activities & Tours
Vet Elephant Sanctuaries
Only visit sanctuaries that prohibit riding, use no chains or bullhooks, and let elephants roam freely. Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai set the standard. If a place offers painting shows or circus tricks, walk away.
Book Popular Activities Online
Booking platforms like GetYourGuide give you instant confirmation and, on many activities, free cancellation — and you can read recent reviews before committing. Compare with local agencies for multi-day trips where negotiation might save more.
Do Outdoor Activities in the Morning
Heat and humidity peak from noon to 3 PM. Schedule jungle treks, cycling tours, and outdoor cooking classes for early morning. Water activities are more flexible since you're in and out of the sea.
Nearby Places

Mr. Mong Samui View Point
A family-run hilltop café in Koh Samui's interior offering sweeping ocean and mountain views alongside coffee, snacks, and ice cream.

Sun Star Viewpoint
A free, well-maintained scenic viewpoint in Na Mueang with sweeping island and ocean views, a small shop, and free parking.

Wang Sao Thong Waterfall
A secluded jungle waterfall near Na Mueang, offering natural pools and a short, easy hike inland from Koh Samui's beaches.

Samui Elephant Home
No riding, no shows, just feeding and mud with elephants who get to behave like elephants.
Similar Activities & Tours Across Thailand

Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket
No rides, no shows, just feeding, mud and washing rescued elephants in the Kathu jungle.

Safari World
A full day out east of the city, and the shows are what people remember most.

Nongnooch Pattaya Garden
Half a day minimum, 500 acres of themed gardens and dinosaurs, and you'll want to be there by 8am.

Lumphini Park
Bangkok's green lung, free to enter, and full of water monitor lizards the size of your leg.
Where to stay near Khao Yai Waterfall
Find hotels in Koh Samui on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
January – August
Avoid: October – December (Gulf Coast monsoon)
Rainy season
October – December
Avg. temperature
24°C – 32°C(75°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: July – August & December
Getting there
Koh Samui Airport (USM) has direct flights from Bangkok and regional hubs (Bangkok Airways monopoly). The ferry from Surat Thani takes ~1.5 hrs and it's cheaper.
Getting around
- •Songthaews (fixed routes around the ring road)
- •Motorbike or scooter rental
- •Taxis (metered or negotiate upfront)
- •Grab available in main areas

