Review · THAILAND

Samui X Quad 4WD Buggy Tour with lunch

4.8 · 143 reviews 4 hours Operated by X Quad Samui · Bookable on GetYourGuide
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Koh Samui’s best views often begin where the smooth roads end. This four-hour 4WD buggy tour takes you up mountain tracks, through jungle country, past a waterfall and temple, and to high viewpoints far from the beach crowds. You drive your own two-seat CFmoto Z8, with an optional upgrade to the newer Z10.

I like the mix of action and sightseeing. You get genuine off-road driving, but also a Thai lunch with a view, local scenery, a Buddha site, and time for photos. I also like the practical setup: hotel pickup, drinks, fruit, lunch, and small groups are included. The main drawback is that the route can be muddy and rough, and the full schedule may run longer than the advertised four hours.

Key points to know before booking

Samui X Quad 4WD Buggy Tour with lunch - Key points to know before booking

  • You drive your own CFmoto buggy: The standard vehicle is a two-seat Z8, with a newer Z10 available as an upgrade.
  • The route reaches Samui’s interior: Expect mountain dirt tracks, a waterfall, a temple, a Buddha statue, and broad island views.
  • Lunch is part of the experience: A Thai set meal, water, soft drinks, and fruit are included.
  • The guides shape the day: Chris, JC, Bob, and Bad Buddha are among the guides named by guests, with English, French, and Thai available.
  • This is small-group off-roading: Numbers are limited to eight, making it easier to keep the group together and get help when needed.
  • Wear shoes you can get dirty: The waterfall stop can involve a real walk, and rain can turn the tracks into wet, muddy fun.

What this Samui buggy tour is really like

Samui X Quad 4WD Buggy Tour with lunch - What this Samui buggy tour is really like

This is not a quick ride around a purpose-built track. You follow a guide into the hills above Koh Samui, using dirt roads and rough mountain paths that show you a less polished side of the island.

The activity is designed for different experience levels. You do not need previous off-road driving experience, and the guides give a safety briefing before setting out. The buggies are easy enough for first-time drivers, but the route still gives you climbs, descents, uneven ground, and enough mud and puddles to keep things lively.

The two-seat layout works well for couples or friends. You can take turns driving, which is useful if one person wants more time behind the wheel and the other wants to film the views. A driving license is required, so bring the correct license with you.

The group limit is eight people. That matters on narrow tracks. A smaller group means less waiting, closer contact with the guide, and a better chance of getting help if you need a hand with the vehicle or route.

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From your hotel to the mountain tracks

Samui X Quad 4WD Buggy Tour with lunch - From your hotel to the mountain tracks

Pickup is included from hotels on Koh Samui. You are asked to wait in the lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled time, and the driver will wait no longer than 10 minutes after pickup time. The transfer to the activity base is listed at about 35 minutes, though the actual ride will depend on where you stay and traffic.

The transport is by jeep or SUV. Once you arrive, the team gets you ready, explains the controls and safety rules, and checks that everyone understands how to handle the buggy. The early part of the route includes scenic views and a short introduction to the terrain.

This opening is useful for first-time drivers. You can get used to steering, braking, and the feel of the CFmoto before the more uneven sections begin. The staff has been described as well organized and friendly, with guides helping participants prepare before the group leaves.

CFmoto Z8 or the upgraded Z10

Samui X Quad 4WD Buggy Tour with lunch - CFmoto Z8 or the upgraded Z10

The standard buggy is a two-seat CFmoto Z8. It gives you a more sheltered and stable ride than a basic quad bike, while still putting you in direct contact with the track, dust, rain, and jungle air.

You can upgrade to the newer Z10. The extra cost is listed by one guest as 1,090 baht, but confirm the current amount when booking because vehicle pricing can change. The Z10 is worth considering if you want the newest machine or prefer a little more comfort and power, but the standard Z8 is still the main experience.

You should not expect a quiet ride. The engines, rough surfaces, and open sides make conversation difficult while driving. That is part of the appeal, but it also means you need to pay close attention to the guide and the vehicle ahead.

The waterfall stop and the roughest part of the route

The route then heads farther into the mountain area, with about an hour and a half listed for off-road driving and scenic stops. The waterfall is one of the natural highlights, but do not treat this as a quick roadside photo stop.

The walk can be a proper hike, with uneven ground and the chance of mud. Closed-toe shoes are essential. Wear clothes you do not mind getting dirty, especially during the wet season or after rain.

Rain changes the character of the tour. One day may bring dust, while another brings puddles, wet tracks, and mud on the buggy. Several people have found the wet conditions added to the fun, but you should be ready to finish the ride dirty and possibly wet. Bring swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a charged phone. A raincoat may also be useful, although it is not listed among the included items.

The waterfall stop gives the day a welcome change of pace. After the engine noise and bumpy tracks, you get time to walk, look around, and cool off. The information provided does not promise swimming, so bring swimwear as a sensible precaution rather than assuming a swim is part of the program.

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Lunch at ไร่ยายพัน with a mountain view

Lunch takes place at ไร่ยายพัน, after another scenic section of driving. A Thai set lunch is included, along with water, soft drinks, and fruit.

The setting is a major part of the meal. This is not simply a break at the activity base. You eat in a mountain setting with wide views, and the stop gives you time to relax before getting back behind the wheel.

Food quality can never be guaranteed on an activity like this, but lunch has been a strong part of the experience for many people. The meal also adds value to the price, since you are not paying separately for a restaurant stop, drinks, and transport.

If you have strict dietary needs, ask before booking. The supplied information confirms a Thai set lunch but does not specify vegetarian, vegan, allergy, or halal options.

Pra Buddha Dīpankara and the high point of Samui

After lunch, the route continues toward Pra Buddha Dīpankara, with roughly 50 minutes listed for scenic driving and off-road travel. This section brings in the cultural side of the trip.

You can expect a Buddha statue, a Buddhist temple, and views toward neighboring islands and landmarks. One stop may also include a blessing from a monk, though this should be viewed as a possible part of the visit rather than a guaranteed ceremony.

This is where the tour feels more complete than a simple buggy ride. You are not only racing along dirt tracks. You are also seeing the island’s interior, learning about local places, and getting a glimpse of its religious life.

Please dress and behave respectfully at the temple. The ride may leave you dusty and muddy, but a temple visit calls for a quieter attitude and suitable clothing.

Photo stops, refreshments, and the ride back

Samui X Quad 4WD Buggy Tour with lunch - Photo stops, refreshments, and the ride back

The later driving section includes more off-road routes and a photo stop. Guides have helped take pictures for the group, which is useful when you want a photograph that includes both drivers. A GoPro mount and fixation are available, so a charged smartphone or action camera can be put to good use.

The views are a major reason to choose this tour. From the higher tracks, you may see neighboring islands and broad sections of Koh Samui. Weather makes a real difference. On a clear day, the viewpoints should be the photographic highlight. In cloud or rain, the views may fade, but the tracks often become more exciting.

The final refreshment stop includes water, soft drinks, fruit, and a beer option at the end. Alcohol is not allowed during the activity, so do not plan on drinking before or during the driving. The beer is a finishing refreshment, not part of the ride itself.

The return transfer to your hotel is listed at about 35 minutes.

Timing: why the four-hour claim needs a little caution

Samui X Quad 4WD Buggy Tour with lunch - Timing: why the four-hour claim needs a little caution

The activity is sold as a four-hour experience, but the detailed route blocks add up to more than four hours when the transfer and every listed stop are counted. The schedule appears to combine approximate driving and stop times, so you should leave extra room in your day.

This matters if you have a ferry, flight, dinner reservation, or another booked activity. The tour includes many moving parts: hotel pickup, vehicle preparation, off-road sections, a waterfall walk, lunch, temple visits, photos, refreshments, and the return drive. I would not place a tight appointment immediately afterward.

Price and value for two people

Samui X Quad 4WD Buggy Tour with lunch - Price and value for two people

The listed price is $303 per group of up to two people. That makes this a fairly expensive half-day activity, especially compared with a simple island transfer or a basic beach excursion.

The value improves if you use the buggy for two people. You get private use of a two-seat vehicle, hotel pickup and drop-off, a guide, lunch, drinks, fruit, and access to a route that would be difficult to experience independently. You are also paying for the staff, vehicle maintenance, route planning, and safety support on rough tracks.

I would choose this over a cheaper quad-bike trip if you want more than driving. The waterfall, temple, high viewpoints, lunch, and local information give the outing more range. If your only goal is speed and mud, the extra sightseeing may feel less important.

The Z10 upgrade is a personal choice. If you care about having the newest buggy, it may be worthwhile. If you simply want the route and the off-road experience, the standard Z8 should be enough.

Who will enjoy this most

This tour suits couples, friends, and small groups who want active sightseeing rather than a passive drive around the island. It is also a good fit for older adults who would like to try off-roading but prefer a buggy to a single-seat ATV. One couple in their 50s and 60s found the two-seat vehicle useful because they could trade driving duties.

You should be comfortable with rough roads, engine noise, dust, mud, and outdoor conditions. The activity is not suitable for pregnant women or children under two. A driving license is required for the buggy ride.

The activity is listed as wheelchair accessible, but the waterfall walk and uneven off-road setting may affect what is practical for each person. If mobility is a concern, contact the operator before booking and explain exactly what assistance is needed.

Guides speak English, French, and Thai. This is helpful if you want more than simple driving instructions. Guides such as Chris and JC have been singled out for their humor, clear explanations, and local information, while Bob and Bad Buddha are also names associated with the team.

What to bring and what to wear

Keep your packing simple, but get the basics right:

  • Closed-toe shoes with a firm sole
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Swimwear
  • A charged smartphone
  • Clothes that can handle dust, mud, and rain

A GoPro mount and fixation are available, but you still need to bring your own camera or phone. Protect your phone from water and mud. You may also want a small towel and a light rain layer, though those items are not listed as included.

Do not bring alcohol for the driving portion, and cannabis is not allowed during the activity.

Should you book Samui X Quad?

I would book this if you want an active day that combines real mountain driving with Samui sightseeing. The strongest reasons are the friendly guides, the easy-to-drive buggies, the views, the waterfall, and the lunch stop. The small group and included transfers make the day simpler than arranging an off-road outing yourself.

I would hesitate if you dislike mud, rough tracks, long outdoor days, or uncertain weather. I would also compare the timing carefully with your other plans, since the route details suggest the day can stretch beyond the stated four hours.

For most couples who want one memorable inland experience on Koh Samui, this is a strong choice. Bring sturdy shoes, accept that you may get filthy, and consider the Z10 upgrade only if the newest vehicle matters to you.

FAQ

How long does the Samui X Quad tour last?

The advertised duration is four hours. The detailed route includes several driving sections, stops, lunch, and hotel transfers, so you should allow extra time beyond the stated duration.

What vehicle do I drive?

You drive a two-seat CFmoto Z8 buggy. A newer CFmoto Z10 is available as an upgrade.

Do I need previous buggy or ATV experience?

No. The tour is suitable for all experience levels, and a safety briefing is provided before driving.

Do I need a driving license?

Yes. A driving license is required for the buggy ride.

Is hotel pickup included?

Yes. Hotel pickup and drop-off on Koh Samui are included. You should wait in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup.

What food and drinks are included?

A Thai set lunch, water, soft drinks, and fruit are included. A beer may be offered at the final refreshment stop, but alcohol is not allowed during the activity.

Can children join the tour?

Children under two are not suitable for this activity. The provided information does not give a general maximum age or child age range, so check before booking for older children.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?

No. Pregnant women are listed as unsuitable for the activity.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?

The activity is listed as wheelchair accessible. Because the route includes off-road driving and a waterfall stop with a real walk, confirm the practical arrangements with the operator before booking.

What languages do the guides speak?

The guides speak English, French, and Thai.

Can I cancel the booking?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. A reserve-now, pay-later option is also available.

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