NORTHERN THAILAND ADVENTURE: HILLTRIBES AND KAYAKING

Embark on an eight-day adventure through Northern Thailand, exploring the vibrant capital of Bangkok, trekking through the hillside villages of Chiang Mai, and immersing yourself in breathtaking natural landscapes. This journey takes you through temples, jungles, markets, and mountains, offering a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Experience local life in hilltribe villages, paddle along the Mae Taeng River, and indulge in Thailand’s famous street food and nightlife.

Tour Highlight

  • Trek through Northern Thailand’s remote highlands, spending two nights in traditional hilltribe villages, engaging with locals, and experiencing their way of life firsthand.
  • Explore stunning landscapes, from cascading waterfalls and panoramic mountain views to a thrilling kayaking adventure on the Mae Taeng River, with an optional white-water rafting experience.
  • Savor authentic Thai cuisine, from bustling street food scenes in Bangkok and Chiang Mai to traditional homecooked meals during village homestays.
  • Experience Chiang Mai’s lively nightlife, discovering trendy bars, vibrant night markets, and cultural hotspots with insights from local guides.
  • Enjoy flexible free time, whether it’s relaxing with a Thai massage, visiting temples, or making new friends at an ethical elephant sanctuary.

Tour Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrival in Bangkok

A warm welcome awaits in vibrant Bangkok, Thailand! Your journey commences with a welcome gathering at 6 PM this evening. Early arrivals can independently explore captivating Chinatown’s bustling streets or visit the magnificent Grand Palace. A culinary adventure into the traditional tastes of Thailand is planned for this evening. Bangkok’s renowned street food scene can be sampled with your guide near Sukhumvit. Afterwards, Bangkok’s nightlife beckons; explore its best local bars independently or with newfound travel companions, navigating the BTS skytrain and MRT subway systems as desired.

Accommodation

  • Hotel (1 night)

 Meals

  • There are no meals included on this day.

 Included activities

  • Bangkok – Orientation Walk

 Optional activities

  • Bangkok – Thai Massage – THB250
  • Bangkok – Grand Palace – THB500
  • Bangkok – Temple & River of Kings Urban Adventure – THB2900
  • Bangkok – Tuk Tuk Experience Urban Adventure – THB2500
Day 2: Bangkok - Overnight Train to Chiang Mai

A leisurely day awaits in Bangkok before your overnight train journey. Begin with a rejuvenating Thai massage, a perfect prelude to further exploration. A cycling tour of Talad Noi, a visit to Bangkok’s temples, or participation in the River of Kings Urban Adventure (details at urbanadventures.com) are suggested options. Following your exploration, embark on an overnight train to Chiang Mai.

Accommodation

  • Overnight Sleeper Train (1 night)

 Meals

  • There are no meals included on this day.

 Optional activities

  • Bangkok – Tuk Tuk Experience Urban Adventure – THB2500
  • Bangkok – Temple & River of Kings Urban Adventure – THB2900
  • Bangkok – Thai Massage – THB250
  • Bangkok – Grand Palace – THB500
Day 3: Chiang Mai Exploration

Upon arrival in Chiang Mai, transfer to your pre-arranged guesthouse. An orientation walk will be provided to familiarize you with your surroundings. Chiang Mai serves as an ideal gateway to the breathtaking Thai highlands, with their misty mountains and picturesque hillside villages. This location will serve as your base for the next few days, before and after your hillside trek. Enjoy a day of leisure; options include ziplining, cycling, or participating in a local cooking class to enhance your culinary skills. Alternatively, independent exploration of Doi Suthep Temple and nearby cafes is suggested. Conclude the day with socializing at the Nimmanhaemin Road bars or night markets.

Accommodation

  • Hotel (1 night)

 Meals

  • There are no meals included on this day.

 Included activities

  • Chiang Mai – Night Bazaar & Anusarn Market
  • Chiang Mai – Orientation Walk

 Optional activities

  • Chiang Mai – Thai massage – THB200
  • Chiang Mai – Doi Suthep Temple Complex (Entrance) – THB50
  • Chiang Mai – Bicycle tour – THB990
  • Chaing Mai – Cooking at Home Cookery School – THB1400
  • Chiang Mai – Zipline (from) – THB1900
Day 4: Chiang Mai - Hilltribe Trek

Departure from Chiang Mai is scheduled for 8 AM. A visit to Mae Malai Market to procure provisions for your trek will precede a visit to Mok Fah Waterfall. Lunch will be enjoyed with your group at a local restaurant before proceeding to the trek’s starting point. Your evening destination is the Mae Ma Nai Hilltribe Village. A scenic mountain ridge walk offering panoramic views of the natural forest and surrounding countryside is anticipated. A celebratory home-cooked dinner awaits upon arrival, followed by an opportunity to interact with villagers. This unique experience offers an intimate glimpse into rural Thai life.

Accommodation

  • Hilltribe Village House (multi-share) (1 night)

 Meals

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

 Included activities

  • Huey Nam Dang – Hilltribe Trek – 2 Days
  • Hilltribe Trek – Mae Malai Market Visit
  • Hilltribe Village – Home-cooked Dinner
  • Hilltribe Trek – Mok Fah Waterfall
Day 5: Hilltribe Trek Continues

Embark on an unforgettable journey, beginning with the tranquil dawn chorus of the jungle’s wildlife. A delightful breakfast precedes a scenic trek across picturesque farmland and verdant jungle landscapes. Observe the unique lifestyles of hill tribe communities, capturing breathtaking photographs throughout this immersive experience. A midday repast is enjoyed en route to the charming Pong Ngan Lahu Village, arriving in the afternoon. Following two days of invigorating exploration, unwind amidst the serene natural beauty, concluding with a delectable home-cooked dinner.

Accommodation

  • Hilltribe Village House (multi-share) (1 night)

 Meals

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

 Included activities

  • Huey Nam Dang – Hilltribe Trek – 2 Days

Special information

  • Your trekking time today will be approximately 5 hours (10 km).
Day 6: Kayaking on Mae Taeng River - Return to Chiang Mai

A kayaking adventure awaits on the serene Mae Taeng River, gliding towards the captivating Sop Kai Village. For two to three hours, be enveloped by stunning natural vistas as you gently paddle downstream. Choose between a private transfer back to Chiang Mai for a relaxed evening, or opt for a thrilling white-water rafting excursion. Feel the adrenaline surge as you navigate the rapids before returning to Chiang Mai for the night. Upon arrival, rejuvenate and explore the magnificent Wat Prasingh and Wat Chedi Luang temples at your leisure. Inquire with your guide for recommendations on authentic Pad Thai or Khao Soi dining experiences.

Accommodation

  • Hotel (1 night)

 Meals

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

 Included activities

  • Sop Kai Village – River Kayaking

 Optional activities

  • Chiang Mai – Thai massage – THB200
  • Mae Taeng – Whitewater Rafting – THB1800
Day 7: Free Day in Chiang Mai - Overnight Train to Bangkok

A day of leisure in Chiang Mai presents numerous possibilities. Consider a Muay Thai (Thai Boxing) session, learning fundamental techniques from expert instructors. Alternatively, visit the Chiang Chill Elephant Sanctuary, observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. A visit to the Chuan Chom Vocational Training Center might offer lunch or a restorative massage, learning about their vital work empowering women from correctional institutions. Conclude the day by embarking on an overnight train to Bangkok.

Accommodation

  • Overnight sleeper train (1 night)

 Meals

  • Breakfast

 Optional activities

  • Chiang Mai – Muay Thai Class (Thai boxing) – THB460
  • Chaing Mai – Cooking at Home Cookery School – THB1400
  • Chiang Mai – Chuan Chom Vocational Training Centre – Massage (from) – THB250
  • Chiang Mai – Wat Chedi Luang Temple – THB40
  • Chiang Mai – Bicycle tour – THB990
  • Chiang Mai – Zipline (from) – THB1900
  • Chiang Mai – ChangChill Elephant Sanctuary – THB1900
  • Chiang Mai – Whitewater Rafting – THB1800
  • Chiang Mai – Doi Inthanon (Entrance) – THB300
  • Chiang Mai – Wat Prasingh Temple – THB40
  • Chiang Mai – Doi Suthep Temple Complex (Entrance) – THB50
Day 8: Arrival in Bangkok - Departure

Your arrival in Bangkok is anticipated early morning. Your journey concludes upon reaching the train station. Should you wish to extend your Thai adventure, your booking agent is readily available to assist.

Meals

  • There are no meals included on this day.

 

8 Days - 7 Nights

See the Thai-riffic northern enclaves of Chiang Mai and its natural surroundings