Full Day Trekking & bamboo cooking Tour in Chiang Rai

If you’re looking for a full-day experience that combines nature, culture, and culinary delights in Chiang Rai, this tour might be just what you need. With a focus on immersive activities and authentic local interactions, it offers a well-rounded way to see the hidden corners of northern Thailand.

What makes this tour stand out is its diverse itinerary, taking you from lush forests and hill tribe villages to relaxing hot springs, all within a manageable 9-hour window. The tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and delicious bamboo cooking sessions. However, it’s worth noting that the physical activity involved—mainly trekking—may not suit those with mobility issues or who prefer a more relaxed day.

This experience is ideal for adventure seekers, culture lovers, and foodies wanting an authentic taste of Chiang Rai’s landscape and traditions. It’s a full package designed to show you the region’s natural beauty and local way of life in one memorable day.

Good To Know

• Authentic local experiences including hill tribe visits and bamboo craft making
• Stunning natural scenery with hikes through forests, mountains, and waterfalls
• Knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with tips and insights
• Varied activities from trekking, bamboo cooking, to relaxing in hot springs
• Price offers excellent value considering the inclusions like transport, lunch, and guided activities
• Ideal for active travelers seeking a mixture of outdoor adventure and cultural discovery

Exploring Chiang Rai’s Natural and Cultural Treasures

This tour offers a deep dive into Chiang Rai’s lush landscapes and vibrant communities. Over roughly 9 hours, you’ll experience a variety of activities that highlight the area’s natural beauty and rich local traditions. From the outset, the tour strikes a balance between physical activity and culture, making it a comprehensive day out.

Convenient Pickup and Transport

Starting from the hotel lobby in Chiang Rai city between 8:30 am and 9:10 am, the tour ensures a smooth beginning. The private transportation means you won’t have to worry about navigating or figuring out directions—simply relax and enjoy the scenery as you’re driven to each stop. With a maximum group size of 15, it maintains an intimate, friendly atmosphere.

Doi Hang and Mueang Chiang Rai Park

The first few stops are laid-back yet significant. The initial pickup and the drive to Mueang Chiang Rai Park set the stage for the day’s adventures. These locations serve as gentle introductions—quiet spots offering glimpses into local life and natural surroundings. The park serves as a gateway to the trekking sections, with the guide preparing you for what’s ahead.

Trekking to Wat Pong Nam Ron and the Boomboo Forest

Next, the real adventure begins with a trek up to Wat Pong Nam Ron, where you’ll hike through the magnificent Boomboo forest and ascend a mountain for panoramic views. Reviewers highlight the stunning landscapes and the sense of tranquility found along the trails. The guides, like Sammy, Marley, and Moe, are praised for their kindness and expertise, making the hike both educational and enjoyable.

Your trek continues through hill tribe villages, offering an authentic peek into Lisu hill tribe life. Wearing comfortable shoes is advisable, as some reviewers noted the climb can test your agility, but the overall experience is rewarding for those who love being in nature and learning about local cultures.

Bamboo Cooking Experience

One of the tour’s highlights is the bamboo cooking session at Huai Kaeo. Here, you’ll learn how to make bamboo chopsticks and cups, and then enjoy a bamboo-themed meal. Reviewers mention that the food was tasty and interesting, with some describing it as a true culinary adventure. This hands-on activity offers a tangible connection to the local craftsmanship—an aspect that many travelers find memorable.

Visiting Hill Tribe Villages and Waterfalls

Post-lunch, the journey continues to the Lee Su Hill tribe village, where you can stroll through tea plantations and even take a refreshing bath in a waterfall. The water feature seems to be a crowd favorite, offering both a break from the trek and a chance to cool off. The scenery here is described as beautiful, with photos capturing the lush greenery and peaceful environment.

Moving from the Akha village to the Lahu village, the route offers picturesque views of mountains and terraced fields. The guides excel at sharing insights into local life, making the visits both educational and engaging.

Relaxing in Hot Springs and Spa

The day’s relaxing finale involves visiting Lam Nam Kok National Park’s hot springs, where you can soak in natural thermal pools for about 30 minutes. Many reviewers appreciated this calming experience after the day’s physical activities, with the hot spring being a highlight for its therapeutic benefits and serene setting.

Finally, a short visit to Phasoet Hot SPA allows for a soothing soak before heading back to Chiang Rai city, ensuring you end the day on a relaxing note.

The Value of the Tour

At $57.10 per person, this tour provides great value. It covers transport, a knowledgeable guide, all activities, and lunch, making it a cost-effective way to experience a full day of adventure without hidden fees. Additional expenses, like drinking water or hot spring entry fees, are minimal and clearly outlined.

The inclusion of private transportation and small group sizes enhances the experience, allowing for personalized attention and flexibility. The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to balance active trekking with moments to rest and enjoy the scenery.

Insight from Reviews

Guests consistently praise the guides’ friendliness and expertise, with many noting how much they appreciated the personalized tips and local stories shared during the trek. One reviewer called their guides “precious” and appreciated the great views and coffee stops, showing how small touches add to the overall enjoyment.

The delicious bamboo meal and beautiful waterfalls receive special mention, highlighting that the experience isn’t just about sightseeing but also about savoring authentic flavors and relaxing in nature.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for active travelers eager to explore Chiang Rai beyond typical sights. If you enjoy trekking, cultural interactions, and trying new foods, this tour hits all marks. It’s suitable for those who don’t mind some physical activity and are interested in learning about hill tribe cultures and local crafts.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, less physically demanding day, you might find the walking segments a bit intense. Also, since the tour involves outdoor activities, it’s best to come prepared with comfortable shoes, sun protection, and water.

The Sum Up

This full-day trekking and bamboo cooking tour offers an authentic and well-rounded glimpse into Chiang Rai’s natural landscapes and local traditions. The combination of scenic hikes, village visits, and hands-on craft making creates a memorable experience that appeals to those wanting more than just typical sightseeing.

The guides’ warmth and knowledge truly stand out, transforming a busy day into a meaningful adventure. The inclusion of lunch, transport, and multiple scenic stops makes it excellent value for the price. Whether you’re into photography, nature, or local culture, this tour will leave you with stories—and maybe even some bamboo chopsticks—to take home.

For active travelers who crave a deeper connection to the region, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s a chance to truly see, taste, and feel Chiang Rai’s vibrant landscape and communities in one well-organized day.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours and 10 minutes, starting from around 8:30 am with hotel pickup and concluding back in Chiang Rai city.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides private transportation to all the stops, ensuring a comfortable and seamless experience.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers guide services, transportation, and lunch. Additional expenses like drinking water (10 Baht per bottle) and hot spring entry fee (100 Baht) are extra.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the physical nature of trekking may not suit very young children or those with mobility issues.

Are there any optional extras?
The hot spa fee of 100 Baht is not included, but you can choose to indulge in the hot spring bath at the end of the day.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility if your plans change.

This tour combines adventure, culture, and relaxation, making it a well-rounded way to experience Chiang Rai’s stunning outdoors and vibrant hill tribe communities. Whether you’re snapping photos along mountain trails or trying your hand at bamboo crafts, this day promises plenty of memorable moments.