Chiang Mai’s natural beauty is on full display with the 1-Day Trekking Tour to Mae Jok. This private excursion whisks travelers through vibrant local markets, a scenic hike to a welcoming Karen village, and an eye-opening visit to an eco-friendly paper workshop. Whether you’re seeking culture or simply want to enjoy Chiang Mai’s stunning landscapes, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. With an English-speaking guide to lead the way, you’re sure to uncover the region’s hidden gems.
Good To Know
- A 1-day private trekking tour in Mae Jok, Chiang Mai, featuring a visit to a local market, a trek to a Karen village, and activities like waterfall swimming and elephant dung paper production.
- The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, and a live English/Thai-speaking guide, with a total duration of 9 hours.
- The tour begins with a 2-hour drive to the Mae Malai Market and the Mae Sae area, followed by a 2-hour trek to the Baan Mae Jok Karen village.
- Highlights of the tour include exploring the local market, experiencing Karen culture and cuisine, and visiting the Mok Fah Waterfall and Elephant Poo Poo Paper Park.
- The tour is priced at £81.44 per person and is suitable for those interested in cultural and outdoor adventures in Chiang Mai.
Overview of the 1-Day Trekking Tour
The 1-day trekking tour in Mae Jok, Chiang Mai, offers adventurous travelers a chance to explore the beautiful natural landscapes and vibrant local culture of the region.
Priced from £81.44 per person, this private group experience includes pickup from the hotel, transportation, and a live English/Thai-speaking guide.
Highlights include visiting a local market, trekking to a Karen village, swimming at a waterfall, and learning about elephant dung paper production.
The 9-hour itinerary provides a well-rounded cultural and outdoor adventure ideal for active visitors to Chiang Mai.
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Pickup and Transportation to Mae Malai Market
The tour begins with pickup from your hotel at 07:30. A 1-hour drive takes you to Mae Malai Market, a bustling local market where you can wander and explore.
| Mode of Transport | Duration |
| — | — |
| Hotel Pickup | 07:30 |
| Drive to Mae Malai Market | 1 hour |
| Drive to Mae Sae | 1 hour |
After browsing the market, you’ll continue your journey with a 1-hour drive to Mae Sae, the starting point of your 2-hour hike to the Karen Village of Baan Mae Jok.
Exploring the Local Mae Sae Market
After the 1-hour drive from Mae Malai Market, travelers arrive at the local Mae Sae Market. This bustling marketplace offers a glimpse into the daily life of the local community.
The market features:
Vibrant stalls selling a variety of fresh produce, from seasonal fruits to locally grown vegetables.
Lively vendors hawking an array of handmade crafts, textiles, and household items.
The enticing aroma of traditional Thai street food, inviting visitors to sample the local cuisine.
Exploring the Mae Sae Market allows travelers to enjoy the authentic culture of the region.
Hiking to the Karen Village (Baan Mae Jok)
Leaving the bustling Mae Sae Market behind, the group embarks on a 2-hour hike to the Karen Village of Baan Mae Jok. The trail winds through lush forests, offering glimpses of the surrounding hills.
Upon arrival, they’re greeted by the warm hospitality of the Karen people. The group explores the village, learning about their traditional way of life and cultural practices.
They visit local homes, witness weaving demonstrations, and sample authentic Karen cuisine during a lunch prepared by the villagers. The tranquil atmosphere and immersive cultural experience make this a truly memorable part of the trekking adventure.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyExperiencing the Village Culture and Cuisine
Upon arriving at the Karen Village of Baan Mae Jok, the group eagerly immerses themselves in the local culture and cuisine.
They’re greeted by the warm hospitality of the villagers, who invite them to:
Observe a traditional weaving demonstration, learning the intricate techniques passed down through generations.
Participate in a hands-on cooking class, learning to prepare authentic Karen dishes using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Explore the village’s vibrant community markets, browsing handcrafted textiles, pottery, and other artisanal products.
The immersive cultural experience leaves the group with a deeper appreciation for the resilient and vibrant Karen way of life.
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Visiting the Mok Fah Waterfall
From the Karen Village, the group continues their journey to the Mok Fah Waterfall. Surrounded by lush greenery, the cascading waterfall offers a refreshing respite from the day’s trek. Visitors can take a dip in the cool, clear waters or simply admire the natural beauty.
| Features | Details |
| — | — |
| Height | 20 meters |
| Flow Rate | Moderate |
| Water Temperature | 22°C |
| Swimming Allowed | Yes |
| Facilities | Changing rooms, restrooms |
The serene environment and the opportunity to swim make the Mok Fah Waterfall a highlight of the trekking experience.
Exploring the Elephant Poo Poo Paper Park
After the refreshing stop at the Mok Fah Waterfall, the group visits the Elephant Poo Poo Paper Park.
This unique attraction showcases the process of transforming elephant dung into high-quality paper products.
The tour includes:
A guided demonstration of the paper-making technique, where visitors learn about the sustainable and eco-friendly process.
A guided demonstration of the paper-making technique, where visitors learn about the sustainable and eco-friendly process.
An opportunity to browse and purchase a variety of elephant poo poo paper souvenirs, from greeting cards to notebooks.
Insights into the conservation efforts that support both the elephants and the local community through this innovative enterprise.
Returning to Chiang Mai
The group wraps up their visit to the Elephant Poo Poo Paper Park and heads back towards Chiang Mai. The drive takes about an hour, giving everyone time to reflect on the day’s adventures. Upon arrival in Chiang Mai, the guide reviews the itinerary highlights:
| Time | Activity |
| — | — |
| 4:30 PM | Arrive back at hotel |
| 5:00 PM | Free time to explore Chiang Mai |
| 7:00 PM | Dinner (own expense) |
| 9:00 PM | Return to hotel |
| 10:00 PM | End of tour |
The group thanks the guide and driver, tips them, and departs, eager to continue discovering all that Chiang Mai has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Physically Demanding Is the 2-Hour Hike to the Karen Village?
The 2-hour hike to the Karen village is moderately challenging, with some steep inclines. It requires a reasonable level of fitness, but it’s not overly strenuous for most healthy adults. Proper hiking gear is recommended to ensure a comfortable trek.
Can the Tour Accommodate Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Dietary Requirements?
The tour can accommodate vegetarian and gluten-free dietary requirements. Travelers should notify the tour operator of any special dietary needs when booking the tour, so the guide can make the necessary arrangements for the included lunch.
What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change the Booking Date?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can also choose the "Reserve now & pay later" option if they need to change the booking date.
Can the Tour Guide Provide Recommendations for Additional Activities in Chiang Mai?
The tour guide can likely provide recommendations for additional activities in Chiang Mai, such as visiting temples, exploring the night markets, or taking cooking classes. They’re knowledgeable about the local area and can suggest options that fit the traveler’s interests.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Limitations for Children Participating in the Tour?
The tour is not suitable for children under 1 year of age or individuals over 75 years old. However, participants of all other ages are welcome to join the 1-day trekking adventure in Mae Jok, Chiang Mai.
The Sum Up
The 1-Day Trekking Tour to Mae Jok offers a captivating glimpse into the natural and cultural wonders of Chiang Mai. Visitors can explore local markets, trek to a Karen village, swim in a waterfall, and discover the unique process of creating eco-friendly paper from elephant dung. This private tour provides a well-rounded experience for those seeking to enjoy the region’s beauty and traditions.
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