Koh Samui ATV

ATV's, Quad Bikes - whatever you call them this is absolutely mid-way between elephant trekking and go-karting! (except we'll admit elephants do have 4WD - but they're everso slow!.)

Basically what you're looking at is a 250cc motorbike with four big fat tyres. The idea is that you climb onto one and follow-your-leader up the mountain, across streams, mud, rocks, through fruit plantations, into small Thai cafes out the other side and back home again. Neat!

There's only one bunch of loonies - err ...expert professionals - doing this on Samui and they're based in Mae Nam in Soi 1; turn alongside Chubb Security on the corner.

When you arrive you'll be required to demonstrate you basic skills by driving round at bit at the home base - and if you bash into more than three things then you'll qualify only as a passenger - as will children on an automatic basis.

If you don't fancy heading up the mountain on one then that's ok, as the home base has obstacle courses and other fun things to do too. But if you do head out in convoy, then you'll be supervised in small groups with one leader for each group.

The guys here are well-aware of the hazards and safety is a prime consideration. Helmets are compulsory, there are first aid-kits on board and assistance is only a phone call away. There are three set tours, each lasting about an hour, but you are welcome to request a custom outing. Samui Quad in Mae Nam - phone: +66 (0) 84 842 6081 to enquire.