Private North Thailand

On arrival in Chiang Rai, we meet you and transfer you to your selected hotel for check in. The rest of the day is free for you to settle in and explore at your own pace. You could stroll through the old town – founded by King Mangrai in the 13th century – or browse the bustling night bazaar for a first glimpse of local life. Overnight in Chiang Rai.

After breakfast at the hotel, we head into central Chiang Rai to see the King Mangrai Monument, continuing to the Hilltribe Museum and Education Centre to learn about the many ethnic communities who have lived in the surrounding highlands for centuries and how they have adapted to modern change. We then travel to Mae Chan to visit remote Yao and Akha villages and observe daily life, before continuing to Mae Sai, a small border town with a busy market. We carry on into the heart of the Golden Triangle – where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet – a region that became notorious in the 1960s for opium production. After lunch, we proceed to Chiang Saen to visit the hilltop Wat Phra That Chom Kitti, reached via a staircase of 350 steps. We return to Chiang Rai, where you have the remainder of the day at leisure. Overnight in hotel in Chiang Rai. Breakfast and lunch included.

After breakfast, we depart Chiang Rai for Chiang Mai, stopping on the southern outskirts to visit Wat Rong Khun – a contemporary temple from the 1990s, renowned for its intricate all white exterior inlaid with mirrors. On arrival in Chiang Mai, we continue up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of the country’s most revered temples, set on a mountain with panoramic views over the city. We ride the included cable car to the top – or you can climb the 309 steps of the naga staircase if you prefer. Later, we head to the riverbank for a leisurely cruise along the River Ping, then visit a local farm for a khao soi lunch accompanied by a dance performance. We round off the day with a wander through the flower and fresh produce market before returning to the hotel. Overnight in Chiang Mai – breakfast and lunch included.

After breakfast at the hotel, we travel to Elephant Jungle Sanctuary – Grand Canyon. Following a safety and orientation briefing, we join an ethical experience centred on elephant care, conservation and observation. We learn about the sanctuary’s mission as we watch the elephants in a natural setting where welfare and freedom of movement are prioritised, with time for respectful photos. After lunch, we explore Chiang Mai’s old town, still framed by remnants of defensive walls and a moat. We visit Wat Suan Dok to admire its Sri Lankan style chedi, 48 metres high, which overlooks the Royal Cemetery, continue to Wat Phra Sing to appreciate its extensive complex of more than 60 buildings, and then visit 14th century Wat Chedi Luang in the heart of the city. In the evening, you can opt to join a khantoke dinner – not included. Overnight in Chiang Mai.

We enjoy breakfast at the hotel – our final morning in Chiang Mai – then check out and conclude our stay. Breakfast included.