The Ultimate Adventure in Thailand

Your journey begins in the peaceful northern city of Chiang Rai, known for its lush landscapes and welcoming indigenous communities. Many international flights connect through Bangkok directly onto Chiang Rai, while others may require booking a separate domestic flight – giving you the option to spend extra time in the city if you wish. Either way, Chiang Rai is easy to reach and a beautiful place to start your Thailand adventure. Hop into your airport transfer and drive to your home for the next three nights – The Legend Chiang Rai, a stylish boutique hotel that is ideally located for exploring the city. Later in the afternoon, meet your group leader and fellow travelers for an optional orientation tour. Hop on a traditional tricycle and explore the lively night market, sampling delicious street food and browsing local crafts. If you’re arriving later in the evening, feel free to head straight to the hotel to settle in and get a good night’s rest before your adventure begins tomorrow.

This morning, you’ll be picked up from your hotel to set off on a gentle bike ride through the peaceful countryside around Chiang Rai. After a brief safety briefing and personalized bike fitting, you'll pedal past rice paddies, fruit orchards, rubber plantations, and teak groves – a relaxed and scenic glimpse into rural Thai life. Your first stop is the iconic White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), a dazzling creation by artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. With its shimmering mirrors and surreal details, it’s a striking blend of Buddhist symbolism and contemporary art. After lunch at a nearby local restaurant, transfer by private songthaew to the vivid Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten) – equally impressive with its rich blue-and-gold design, serene white Buddha, and intricate murals. Back at the hotel, enjoy some downtime or perhaps treat yourself to a relaxing spa treatment. In the evening, gather with your group for a welcome dinner and a taste of northern Thailand’s rich culinary traditions.

Today's adventure begins with a scenic drive from your hotel into the hills surrounding Chiang Rai. From the trailhead, set off on a rewarding jungle trek through bamboo forests and along quiet paths connecting remote hill tribe villages. Along the way, immerse yourself in the region's natural beauty and get a glimpse into traditional life in the mountains. Around midday, you'll stop in a local village where you'll join a family to help prepare and share a traditional northern Thai lunch – a fun and hands-on affair. In the afternoon, continue your hike to a second village and pay a visit to a hillside tea plantation, where you'll learn how tea is grown and harvested in this part of Thailand. The reward at the end of the day? A refreshing pause at a jungle waterfall, followed by a soothing soak in natural hot springs – the perfect way to round off an epic day. You'll return to your hotel in the late afternoon, with a free evening to relax and reflect on the day's experiences.

After a couple of active days exploring northern Thailand’s temples, jungles, and countryside, today is all about slowing down and soaking it all in – you’ve earned a little indulgence. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before heading out to the peaceful Ahsa Farmstay, nestled in the foothills of Doi Mae Salong. You’ll be welcomed with a cup of hot herbal tea before enjoying a guided walk around the farm, where you’ll gather fresh ingredients like herbs, vegetables, and eggs for your cooking session. In a hands-on Thai cooking class, you’ll learn to prepare a selection of traditional regional dishes – from a fiery chili paste to a comforting coconut milk soup, a sweet banana dessert, and a seasonal vegetable stir-fry. After all your hard work in the kitchen, sit down to enjoy the feast you’ve created, served with organic steamed rice, fresh fruit, and tea or coffee. At the farm, you'll also have the chance to enjoy an included herbal steam sauna and turmeric facial mask, followed by a full-body Thai massage using fragrant herbal oils. This afternoon, continue your journey to the luxurious Katiliya Mountain Resort & Spa, perched high in the hills with sweeping views over the valleys below. You'll end the day with a sumptuous dinner – the perfect end to a day devoted to culture, cuisine, and calm.

Today's drive takes you deep into the mountainous heart of northern Thailand, with spectacular views and cultural encounters along the way. The route winds through the scenic town of Doi Mae Salong, known for its cool climate, tea plantations, and rich Yunnanese-Chinese heritage. Midway, stop at an Akha hill tribe village, where you'll be welcomed by the local community for a traditional home-cooked lunch. In the afternoon, continue the journey to the peaceful and remote town of Chiang Dao – an authentic spot that remains largely untouched by mass tourism. Nestled at the foot of the towering Doi Luang Chiang Dao (northern Thailand's third-highest peak), Chiang Dao offers a serene atmosphere with uncrowded streets and stunning natural beauty. Here, you'll explore the incredible Chiang Dao Cave system. Accompanied by a local ranger and lanterns, you'll venture into both the illuminated chambers and the darker recesses of the cave, discovering dramatic limestone formations and centuries-old Buddhist shrines tucked within this sacred site. Tonight, you'll bed down in the tranquil surroundings of Marisa Resort & Spa, a peaceful retreat offering a perfect blend of comfort and nature.

Rise early and get ready for an adventure-filled day packed with hiking and kayaking through some of northern Thailand’s most stunning natural landscapes. This morning you’ll leave Chiang Dao behind and head south toward Mae Taeng. Lace up your hiking boots for a rewarding, short but sweaty trek along a mountain ridge, offering breathtaking views over lush forests and rolling valleys. The trail leads to Pong Ngan Lahu Village, a peaceful riverside community beside the Mae Taeng River. After enjoying a leisurely lunch in this tranquil setting, prepare to hit the water on kayaks. Paddle gently downstream for about 1.5–2 hours, following the verdant riverbanks as they wind towards Sop Kai Village. After your kayaking exploits you'll head to Chiang Mai, and retreat to the comfort of Pingnakorn Huaykaew – your base for the next two nights. This stylish boutique hotel is found in the peaceful Chang Phueak district and offers comfortable, modern rooms, a relaxing saltwater pool, spa services, and easy access to nearby cafes and shops.

Today starts with a transfer to the tranquil Wat Pha Lat, a hidden forest temple tucked away along the Monks' Trail. Enjoy a peaceful visit surrounded by lush greenery before a private van takes you higher up the mountain to the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Climb the famous 306-step Naga staircase, adorned with intricately carved serpent railings, to reach the gleaming golden chedi and a panoramic terrace with special views over Chiang Mai below. Next, descend on foot through Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, along shaded forest trails to the refreshing Montha Than Waterfall – a perfect spot to pause for a dip. After your hike, enjoy a well-earned lunch at a local restaurant before spending a leisurely afternoon relaxing or exploring Chiang Mai at your own pace. This evening, indulge in a special chef’s table experience at Chef TuTu. Set in a cozy, greenery-filled home in Chiang Mai, this intimate restaurant offers just a handful of tables – making it feel more like dining in a friend’s kitchen than a traditional eatery.

This morning you’ll transfer to Chiang Mai Airport for your flight down to Phuket in Thailand's south. On arrival, you’ll be whisked to the pier to board a ferry bound for Koh Yao Noi – a jewel of an island in the heart of Phang Nga Bay. Known for its unspoiled beauty, friendly local communities, and dramatic limestone karsts towering above turquoise waters, Koh Yao Noi offers a rare blend of authentic island life and breathtaking scenery. Unlike more touristy spots, this island remains peaceful and laid-back, with charming fishing villages, quiet beaches, and lush mangroves waiting to be explored. You’ll spend the next three nights at the elegant Cape Kudu Hotel, a stylish beachfront retreat oozing with island tranquility. After settling in, the rest of your day is yours to enjoy however you please – whether it’s unwinding at the spa, wandering along powder-soft beaches or simply enjoying the vibes by the pool.

This morning, embark on an unforgettable sea kayaking adventure through the breathtaking seascapes of Phang Nga Bay. You’ll be picked up from your resort on Koh Yao Noi and meet your knowledgeable local guide, who will tailor the day’s briefing to the tides and weather conditions. Launching from a traditional longtail boat (which serves as your floating base), you’ll paddle through calm, turquoise waters, weaving between towering limestone cliffs and discovering quiet beaches that feel like private paradises. Midday, enjoy a delicious onshore lunch surrounded by stunning views, before setting off again for more paddling. After a day of exploring nature’s wild side, head back to your resort on Koh Yao Noi, feeling wowed by the bay's laid-back magic.

It's your last day in paradise, so make it count! You'll be off on an epic island-hopping adventure around Krabi, cruising by private longtail boat to some of the region's best-kept secrets – Koh Hong, Koh Lao Lading, Koh Phak-bia, and Koh Ling. Think hidden coves, towering limestone cliffs, powdery white beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Each island has its own vibe, and there's plenty of time to explore, swim, or just kick back in the sun. A tasty lunch is served beachside to keep you fueled for the day. After soaking up the last rays and salty breeze, you'll head back to Koh Yao Noi to relax, before coming together in the evening for one final dinner – sunset views, cold drinks, and great company to wrap up this unforgettable Thai adventure.

Kick back and enjoy a leisurely morning, before checking out of the hotel at your own pace (depending on your scheduled ferry). For a smooth and stress-free departure, we recommend booking a flight leaving after 6:00 PM. When it’s time, you’ll be transferred from Koh Yao Noi to the airport in Phuket via a combination of shared local songthaew, shuttle speedboat, and private minivan. Alternatively, you may choose to extend your adventure, spending an extra night or two in Phuket.