In a lush, jungle setting in the shadow of a mighty limestone mountain, Chiang Dao is a popular country escape from the steaming urban plains of Chiang Mai. Families and 30-something travellers come to relax and wander, enjoying the area's rural character.
Day 1: Arrival At Chiang Mai And Transfer To Chiang Dao
08:30 Meeting at your hotel in Chiang Mai city. Depart by covered truck to Maetaman valley. We make our first stop at the elephant camp, experience an elephant-back ride around the valley and bamboo rafting down the river. Transfer by vehicle to a riverside restaurant for lunch and our trek starting point. After lunch we begin our hike with a first hour mostly uphill through the jungle, to reach a first village. Continue for another one hour on mountain slopes to reach our overnight destination, a homestay in a Lahu village on the top of the mountain. Enjoy the sunset over the valley while your guides are cooking a great Thai dinner. Fire camp (in cold season) and relax. Overnight in dormitory hut, under a mosquito net.
Day 2: Chiang Dao Trekking
After breakfast, we will begin today’s hike. We walk the mountain ridges on well-marked trails with some scenic views. Today is a long hiking day, and we will enjoy deep jungle and tropical forest. Picnic lunch on the way to be carried by participants. Eventually we reach a small Shan village and our overnight place. Overnight at local home-stay in dormitory type rooms, with separate toilet and warm shower. Evening Thai set dinner cooked by your host. Participants should be ready to hike for 6 hours on undulating trails.
Day 3: Departure
After breakfast, early departure at 8am, for a hike through the forest and jungle, mostly downhill, to reach a plantation where we will have a Thai style lunch. We should arrive at plantation at 12.30. After lunch, we can have a walk in the garden, and your guide can explain the different plants and fruits in the garden, used for Thai cooking. Afternoon, vehicle transfer back to Chiang Mai, and drop off at your hotel. Arrive approximately at 4pm.