Day 1: Chiang Mai - Ban Thaton

In the morning pick up from the airport or hotel. Drive to the north for a visit to an elephant camp to observe demonstrations of elephants working, hauling logs and taking a bath. An optional elephant ride and a lazy trip down the river on a bamboo raft can be arranged. Then continue to see Chiang Dao cave and temple. On the way do a side trip to one of the rare Palong hill tribe villages. Further north in Ban Thaton visit Wat Thaton, which is dominated by giant Buddha images that overlook the Mae Kok Valley as well as the Burmese mountain wilderness.. Overnight at a resort on the banks of the Kok River.

Day 2: Ban Thaton - Chiang Rai

First travel up to Doi Maesalong, a mountain village of ex Kuomintan (renegade Chinese army of 1949) with a big local market and a wide array of items (most of them from China). On the way passing through various hill tribe villages like Lisu, Akha and Yao. Descent down winding and scenic roads to the monkey temple of Thum Pla. Finally arrive in Mae Sai, the border- and market town. An optional side trip to the Burmese border town of Tachilek can be arranged (border pass available). Later continue to the Golden Triangle at the mighty Mekong River, where you can enjoy a boat ride to Chiang Saen. On the way stop at the Laotian river island of Don Sao. Then travel on to Chiang Rai for overnight.

Day 3: Chiang Rai - Chiang Mai

In the morning travel back to Chiang Mai via Mae Suay and Mae Kachan. On the way visit a local market with some hot springs. Arrive in Chiang Mai early afternoon. There is some time left for some sightseeing in the northern capital. End of the tour. Transfer to the hotel or airport, depends on your further itinerary

Price includes:

Air-conditioned transportation during the tour, English speaking tour guide, all transfers and excursions as mentioned in the above itinerary, entrance fees, accommodation at middle- and upper middle class hotels/resorts, half board (daily breakfast and lunch during tours).

Not included:

All drinks, tips and personal expenses

Flexibility:

On the second day a 3-4 hours boat trip on the scenic Kok River between Thaton and Chiang Rai can be included. If you wish to do so, please let us know at the time of booking.
For a surcharge the two deluxe class resorts of Amari Angkhang Royal Resort at Doi Ankhang (near Fang/Thaton) and the Dusit Island Hotel in Chiang Rai can be included in this itinerary as well.