Guide pratique du routard pour les îles et hotspots du sud de la Thaïlande

By isa_m

Location: Surat Thani, Thailand

Un guide concis et pratique pour le backpacking et l'exploration de Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Krabi et Phuket pour les voyageurs à petit budget — avec conseils, hébergements et expériences uniques.

Backpacking Southern Thailand: Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Koh Lanta, Krabi, Phi Phi Islands, & Phuket

Imagine stepping off a ferry into warm island air with beaches stretching around you. This guide covers backpacking in Southern Thailand’s Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Koh Lanta, Krabi, Phi Phi Islands, and Phuket, aimed at travelers on tighter budgets seeking practical tips. Plan for daily costs between 600 and 1500 THB depending on your style. A smart itinerary might be 7 to 14 days splitting time between the islands, with longer stays in Koh Tao and Phi Phi Islands. This lets you experience a bit of everything without rushing. Three big wins from this guide: finding the cheapest ferries and local transport, picking budget accommodation options that still feel comfy, and knowing the basics on local culture and safety. - Watch out for strong sun—bring sunscreen and drink plenty of water. - Jellyfish appear off season; check local reports before swimming. - Scooter accidents are common; always wear a helmet and drive carefully. Respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting temples and bargaining politely in markets. This sets you up for a more positive experience with locals and helps you travel responsibly.

Getting There & Around

Arrive through major airports in Phuket, Krabi, or Koh Samui. Ferries connect these islands, with Koh Tao mainly reached by ferry from Koh Samui or Chumphon on the mainland. Book tickets at local counters or reputable travel booths in town for the best prices and avoid scams. Combine overnight buses from Bangkok or other cities with early morning ferries to save money and maximize daylight. Buses drop you close to ferry ports like Surat Thani or Chumphon. Allow extra time for transfers, especially during peak season. Travel light with waterproof bags for ferry rides as luggage space is limited and weather can be unpredictable. Arrive at ports at least 30 minutes early to secure your spot and luggage space on popular ferry routes. Expect transport costs to vary: buses and local ferries are cheapest, private transfers and speedboats cost more. Save money by booking combined bus + ferry tickets locally instead of online.

Things To Do & Experience

Looking for budget-friendly activities that show you the real vibe? Start with snorkeling, a must-do on these islands. Good beginner spots are easy to find near popular beaches. Rent gear locally to avoid carrying your own, but check it first for a good fit and reef-safe sunscreen. For diving, Koh Tao is the hub. Many operators offer flexible options so you can pick what suits your schedule and budget. Choose a dive center with certified instructors and clear safety info. Day trips and boat tours can get pricey if you don’t negotiate. Always ask for a breakdown of costs, and try joining group tours to lower your share. Early morning trips usually mean fewer crowds and cooler weather. Land-based, check out local markets, temples, and walking routes. Rent a scooter or join a small group 4WD buggy tour on Koh Samui for easy access to hidden spots without overspending.

• Phi Phi Islands
• Koh Lanta
• Koh Samui
• Krabi
• Koh Tao
• Phuket

Active travelers will find plenty to do beyond the obvious. Krabi offers beginner rock-climbing spots where you can rent minimal gear on-site and get quick lessons without splurging. Ask around for small, local outfitters to keep costs down. Supporting conservation efforts can be part of your travel too. Look for community projects focused on reef health or beach clean-ups. You can often join half-day activities that fit tight schedules and still make a difference. When getting active, stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and wear sturdy shoes. Carry a basic first-aid kit for scrapes or blisters, especially if you’re hiking or climbing. Preparing for these keeps things safe and fun.

• Krabi 4 Island Morning Cruise with Snorkeling & Gourmet Breakfast
• 4WD Buggy. Mountain Tour 3 hrs. for 1-2 people per Buggy in Samui
• Thailand Scuba Conservation: Open-Water/Advanced, Shark Conservation, and Coral Maintenance

Where to Stay: Hostels & Budget Resorts

Finding the right hostel or budget resort depends on balancing location and budget. Spots closer to piers or main bus stops save you transport costs, while places tucked away offer quieter stays but might cost more in transit. Expect dorm rooms to offer the best value if you're okay sharing space. Private basic rooms cost more but give privacy and security. Always check if dorms provide lockers and if you need your own padlock. Booking strategies vary: secure your spot online when travel dates are fixed, or try walk-ins in the low season to find deals. Hostel booking sites are handy, but onsite inquiries can score extras like room upgrades or advice on local transport. Safety first: always use lockers for valuables, bring your own padlock, keep photocopies of your passport separate from originals, and avoid leaving cash and important items unattended at the accommodation. - Stay near transport hubs to cut down on extra taxi or tuk-tuk rides. - Choose accommodations offering secure storage options to protect your gear.

• Mad Monkey Phuket
• Bodega Party Hostel, Phi Phi Islands
• Jungle Hostel Koh Tao
• Nomads Ao Nang
• Lub d Koh Samui Chaweng Beach
• AHA Lanta Cozy Hostel

Unique Experiences & Island Culture

The islands offer distinct ways to tap into local life without spending much. Start with local markets where you can stroll in anytime, sampling fresh street food like grilled seafood or mango sticky rice. Temples welcome visitors quietly; just remember to remove your shoes before entering and dress modestly—cover shoulders and knees. Donations are appreciated but not mandatory, so a small contribution is enough to show respect. Joining a temple ceremony can be a memorable cultural experience, often free and open to walk-ins. Chatting respectfully with vendors at food stalls supports the community directly, especially when you tip small amounts. Another great cultural activity is attending a traditional dance or music event at community centers, usually low-cost and open to all. - Always ask before photographing locals, especially in more private settings. - Avoid loud behavior inside temples and when engaging with elders.

• Thai Cooking School in Aonang
• Dantewada Land of Angels and Sticky Waterfall Tour with Guide

When using local boats, the usual etiquette is to board in order and offer the crew small tips after your trip. Handle your luggage carefully to keep the vessel balanced, and wait patiently during loading and unloading at piers. To immerse yourself in slower island life, ask hostel staff for directions to small villages or artisan workshops, many of which welcome visitors. Try joining a short, informal cooking demo for a hands-on, affordable cultural activity. It's a great way to learn local recipes and meet residents. Balance curiosity with respect by always asking permission before snapping photos or entering private spaces—this keeps the interaction warm and authentic without seeming intrusive. - Watch how locals board and pay boat crews to avoid awkward moments. - Look for craft workshops advertising small group visits or demos to keep things personal and budget-friendly.