Day 1: Chiang Mai – Mae Kampong
Day one of our ‘great outdoors’ adventure takes us to the picturesque Mae Kam Pong village. Situated 1,300 metres above sea level, this is an exceptionally idyllic destination with wooden buildings, a more temperate climate and a stream running through the area.
After lunch we take a village tour and observe local handicrafts such as the creation of hats, bamboo furniture, herbal products and the process of tea leaf fermentation. A visit to some tea and coffee plantations, a seven-tiered waterfall, the local school and a temple are also included. We then return to our accommodation with the rest of the afternoon at leisure. Dinner is at the community centre and this includes hill tribe cultural dance and music performances.
Day 2: Mae Kampong – Hmong Hilltribe Lodge
Our first stop is at a nursery to learn about advanced cultivation techniques. We then take a one hour trek on a trail through Doi Suthep-Pui National Park to visit the biggest tree on the mountain. This national park contains 1,685 metres high Doi Pui, one of northern Thailand’s most prominent peaks. This pristine national park is full of greenery that provides a safe haven for over 300 bird species and 2,000 types of ferns and flowering plants.
After lunch at a local restaurant, we continue to Ban Pang Hai, a simple, rural and relaxing village situated 850 metres above sea level. We check-in to the Hmong Hill Tribe Lodge, with a barbecue dinner accompanied by hill tribe cultural dance and music performances.
Day 3: Hmong Hilltribe Lodge
Fuelled by a delicious breakfast, we set off on a 90 minute trek across the spectacular and pristine rural landscape. We make our way through verdant agricultural land to rural Mae Khi village. We make a stop here to visit a Hmong Shaman’s house and get a detailed insight into the Hmong’s spiritual beliefs and practices. We then continue by car to the Monchaem area which has splendid panoramic views.
After lunch at a local restaurant, we visit sleepy isolated villages off the tourist track, situated in rugged mountainous locations. We also visit an ancient temple to view some beautiful murals. We then return to Hmong Hill Tribe Lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day 4: Hmong Hilltribe Lodge – Chiang Mai
The morning has a fun element as we try our hand at a variety of traditional Northern Thai handicrafts at Mae Sa Valley. Nestled in one of Chiang Mai’s most stunning botanical gardens, with a waterfall and stream, this artistic enclave is home to the province’s most highly-skilled artisans, potters and painters. You will get the opportunity to learn techniques that have made northern Thai handicrafts renowned across the globe.
You can choose from a wide range of seasonal activities such as pottery, cooking, massage techniques and batik. After a hearty lunch we return to Chiang Mai and the conclusion of this memorable and engaging excursion.
