Chiang Mai Adventure Journey
Mountains, Villages & Northern Thai Adventure
Season: December–February
Price: 2080 AUD / person
A 6-day, 5-night adventure through Chiang Mai’s scenic mountain villages, misty valleys, and lush forests. Trek to Mon Jong Peak for a starlit camping experience, bamboo raft along calm rivers, and meet local hill tribes in their villages.
Along the way, enjoy elephant encounters, cultural experiences, and optional city exploration in Chiang Mai. This journey blends nature, adventure, and cultural immersion — perfect for travelers seeking a meaningful and active getaway without the rush.
Trip Overview
Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
Difficulty: ★★⭑☆☆ (Moderate) – Suitable for fit beginners and nature lovers.
Activity style: This journey blends multi-day trekking, cultural immersion, river rafting, and camping
• Hike through mountain trails and forested ridges
• Experience homestays in hill tribe villages
• Float along rivers on bamboo rafts
• Trek to Mon Jong summit and camp under the stars
• Enjoy gentle adventure suitable for beginners to moderately fit travellersAccommodation: Camping, Homestays and Hotel
Season: December– February
The trip balances active exploration with cultural encounters, making it perfect for travellers seeking variety, nature, and authentic local experiences without overly technical challenges.
What Makes This Trek Special
Mountain villages: Mae Kampong, Khaw Lam, Pong Ngen, Huay Kub Kab
Elephant feeding, bathing & river play
Bamboo rafting along scenic rivers
Mon Jong summit trek & camping under stars
Authentic hill tribe cultural experiences
Optional Chiang Mai city day for temples, cafés & markets
Adventure Style
This journey includes a mix of homestays, camping, and city hotels. Homestays offer shared rooms with basic facilities and a chance to experience local life. Camping on Mon Jong summit is under the stars, with tents and sleeping bags provided. City hotel stays include private rooms and modern amenities.
Food
Meals include daily breakfasts, selected local lunches, and dinners as indicated in the itinerary. Food is simple, nutritious, and locally inspired, designed to fuel active days. Special dietary requirements should be notified in advance. Some meals in Chiang Mai city or markets are optional and self-catered.
Facilities
Facilities vary by location. Homestays have shared bathrooms, camping is basic, and hotels offer standard private facilities. Mobile signal and internet are generally available in villages and the city, but may be limited in remote mountain areas.
Trail Conditions
Hikes range from gentle forest trails to moderate mountain paths, including Mon Jong summit, which involves a few hours of uphill trekking. Trails may be uneven, rocky, or slippery after rain. Participants should have basic hiking fitness and be comfortable walking 3–4 hours at a time.
Experience Level
This adventure is suitable for beginners to moderately fit travellers. No technical climbing or rafting skills are required, but participants should be ready for active days with outdoor exposure and flexible for changing weather conditions.
Weather & Environment
Northern Thailand is cool and dry from October to February, ideal for trekking, rafting, and camping. Morning mist and cool nights are common, especially in mountain villages. Afternoon sun may be strong, so sun protection and hydration are important.
Respect for Nature
Participants are expected to respect local communities, hill tribe customs, and natural surroundings. Follow Leave No Trace principles, carry out rubbish, and behave responsibly around wildlife and cultural sites.
Trip Itinerary
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Early arrival in Mae Kampong Village, known for its cool climate, waterfalls, and traditional wooden homes. Visit a local temple and waterfall café before travelling onward to Sob Gai.
After lunch, arrive at Ban Khao Lam village and settle into a riverside homestay. The afternoon includes tubing along the river and a memorable elephant encounter, with feeding and bathing in natural surroundings.
Dinner and overnight at the village homestay under the stars.
Overnight: Ban Khao Lam Homestay
Meals: Lunch, Dinner -
After breakfast, begin a scenic bamboo rafting journey along the Mae Taeng River, passing forested riverbanks and local villages.
After lunch and time to freshen up, travel by van to Huay Kub Kab, a remote Muser hill tribe village set high in the mountains. Enjoy cool air, misty views, and a peaceful village evening.
Overnight: Huay Kub Kab Homestay
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Travel by 4WD to Doi Pha Sam Liam for a short hike to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking layered mountain ridges.
After lunch, return to Mae Kampong Village for a relaxed afternoon exploring cafés, waterfalls, and the village walking street.
Overnight: Mae Kampong Homestay
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Transfer into Chiang Mai city. Visit iconic temples including Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang, then enjoy free time in Nimmanhaemin or at the hotel.
In the evening, explore local night markets and the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, with dinner at your own pace.
Overnight: Chiang Mai city hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch -
Very early departure to the Mon Jong Mountain trailhead. Begin the trek to the summit, reaching panoramic ridge views by morning.
The afternoon is spent relaxing, exploring the ridgeline, and preparing camp. Sunset views and stargazing create an unforgettable mountain night.
Overnight: Camping on Mon Jong
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Wake before dawn for sunrise views over the mountain ranges. After breakfast, trek down to the village for a shower and lunch.
In the afternoon, depart for Bangkok, arriving in the evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Upcoming departure dates
| Departure | Finish |
|---|---|
| 1 Nov 2026 | 6 Nov 2026 |
| 15 Nov 2026 | 20 Nov 2026 |
| 29 Nov 2026 | 4 Dec 2026 |
| 13 Dec 2026 | 18 Dec 2026 |
| 24 Jan 2027 | 29 Jan 2027 |
