Northern Thailand: Hilltribes & Villages

Day 1 : Bangkok

Arrive at any time and welcome to Bangkok - Thailand's bustling capital!

This evening, the famous Khao San Road is on the itinerary for your first night out. Explore this buzzing traveller hub with your CEO and check out the lively bars and dance parties that line the street. Grab a Thai beer or tea and connect with your fellow travellers. Don't forget to sample local delicacies, and try a deep fried scorpion if you dare!

Acommodation

New Siam 2

Day 2 : Bangkok/Chiang Mai

This tour is off to a colourful start with a day to freely explore Bangkok. Visit Wat Pho, the Grand Palace, National Museum, or Jim Thompson's House. Try a riverboat trip along the Chao Phraya River and through the canals (or klongs) for a different perspective of daily life in this busy city. Tonight, you'll take the overnight train to Chiang Mai.

Due to disruptions of Thai trains in the north during the monsoon season, trips running July through October may use alternative transport.

Optional Activities - Day 2

Day 3 : Chiang Mai

Make sure you've got room for more than three meals today, because you're heading to the best street food spots in Chiang Mai. Besides eating, there's lots to do here — like a visit to Doi Suthep temple or taking it easy with a soak in the Sankampang Hot Springs.

Experience the flavours and scents of traditional northern Thai cuisine by pre-booking the Northern Thai Cooking Class.

Optional Activities - Day 3

Acommodation

Chiang Mai Gate Hotel

Day 4 : Chiang Mai/Ban Mae Jok

It's time for a change of pace. Today, drive from Chiang Mai to Mae Malai village, where you'll set off on a trek through rugged forests to see how diverse this region of hilltribe communities really is. Every village you'll see has its own language, belief system, style of dress, and traditions. It's a few hours to the first village of hilltribe thatch bungalows, but every step is worth it as you get to know the lay of the land.

The exact itinerary of the walking on this trip may change from time to time, taking into account the weather and local conditions. Also, please note there may be times when the use of video and/or still cameras may be inappropriate -- your CEO and guides will be able to advise you. Be prepared for the accommodation to be basic; remember, it's all about an authentic and unique experience!

Day 5 : Ban Mae Jok/Pa Khao Lam

Trek for 2–3 hours before stopping for lunch. Then head to a Karen village to see how traditional blankets and scarves are made. Keep trekking for a few more hours (you've got this!) before stopping in the next village for the night.

Along the way, you might get the chance to stop at Mae Tang River to learn to fish using local tools or build a raft using bamboo.

Day 6 : Pa Khao Lam/Chiang Mai

After breakfast, leave the village by bamboo raft and get a closer look at other villages along the way. Meet the van after lunch and head back to Chiang Mai, a foodie's paradise. Try the city's most famous dishes like khao soi (noodles in curry broth) and sai oua (northern Thai sausage) and get ready for your big night out. Venture to the best bar in town and grab a drink on our tab to cheers to a completed trek and life-changing adventures!

Acommodation

Chiang Mai Gate Hotel

Day 7 : Chiang Mai/Bangkok

Make the most of Chiang Mai with more free time, where you can go shopping in the market, get a Thai massage, or explore any of the many temples. Or, hey, you could always go back for another taste of khao soi curry. Tonight, catch up on sleep during an overnight train and wake up in Bangkok.

Due to disruptions of Thai trains in the north during the monsoon season, trips running July through October may use alternative transport.

Optional Activities - Day 7

Day 8 : Bangkok

Today is departure day, but do not fret! There is no such thing as goodbye, only until next time. Be sure to sneak in some last-minute photos with your newfound friends and exchange social medias before you head on your way. This adventure ends in Bangkok, on arrival at the train station (approximately 8am).