Chiang Mai is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. For travelers looking to explore this picturesque region in a group, there are plenty of options when it comes to guided tours. From visits to historic temples and bustling markets, to trekking through jungle trails and meeting traditional hill tribe communities, there’s no shortage of adventure and discovery to be had. In this post, we’ve rounded up the three best group tours in Chiang Mai that offer the perfect combination of sightseeing and immersion, providing an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages and interests.
The 3 Best Group Tours in Chiang Mai
- Chiang Mai: Elephant Sanctuary & Waterfall Small Group Tour
- Chiang Mai: Small Group Ethical Elephant Sanctuary Tour
- Chiang Mai: Elephant Sanctuary & Waterfall Small Group Tour
The 3 Best Group Tours in Chiang Mai
1. Chiang Mai: Elephant Sanctuary & Waterfall Small Group Tour
Take a trip to Chiang Mai and experience the Elephant Sanctuary & Waterfall on this small group tour. You will be picked up from your hotel in the city center and head out to the sanctuary. There, you can learn about elephant care and make healthy snacks for them. You can also take a walk with the elephants and watch them forage in their natural habitat. You can even bathe with them in the nature pool in the river stream! After your time with the elephants, you can go for a swim at Mae Wang Waterfall. This intimate tour includes a guide, food and drink, as well as towels and a change of clothes. Please note that this tour is not suitable for pregnant women, children under 2, people with heart or back problems, people with mobility impairments, people with vertigo, or people with respiratory issues.
2. Chiang Mai: Small Group Ethical Elephant Sanctuary Tour
Chiang Mai is renowned for its ethical elephant sanctuaries, and this small group tour is one of the best ways to experience them up close. The Lanna Kingdom Elephant Sanctuary is situated in the heart of a national park and provides a natural environment for the rescued elephants to roam. Visitors will learn about the program to protect these magnificent creatures, watch them splash around in a mud bath, and have the opportunity to bathe with them in the river. Alongside the knowledgeable English-speaking guide, visitors will also make herbal vitamin balls for the elephants and feed them bananas and sugar cane. A homemade vegetarian lunch is included in the package, so visitors can kick back and watch the gentle giants roam around their natural surroundings. This full-day excursion to the sanctuary includes transportation by van and a uniform of big bamboo hat and boots for visitors to wear, ensuring that they get up close and personal with the elephants while keeping their clothes clean.
3. Chiang Mai: Elephant Sanctuary & Waterfall Small Group Tour
Discover the beauty of the deep jungle on a small group tour to the Elephant Sanctuary and Mae Wang Waterfall in Chiang Mai. After hotel pick-up, meet the rescued elephants and learn how to make healthy snacks for them. Walk in the natural surroundings as you watch these gentle giants forage and bathe in the nature pool in the river stream. Afterwards, take a refreshing dip at Mae Wang Waterfall before returning to Chiang Mai. This intimate tour offers ethical elephant care experience and moments of relaxation in a stunning location. Hotel transfers, an English guide, lunch and drinking water are all included. Please note that this tour is not suitable for children under 2 years old, pregnant women, people with heart problems, back problems, mobility impairments, vertigo, or respiratory issues.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a beautiful city in Northern Thailand with a rich cultural heritage and endless possibilities for adventure, exploration, and relaxation. As such, many travelers have questions about the ins and outs of visiting Chiang Mai. Here are the most frequently asked questions about Chiang Mai, Thailand.
1. What’s The Best Time of Year to Visit Chiang Mai?
The best time of year to visit Chiang Mai is between November and February when the weather is comparatively drier and cooler. During these months, you’ll enjoy comfortable temperatures and relatively low humidity, making it a great time for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and exploring the city in general.
2. How Do I Get To Chiang Mai?
There are several ways to get to Chiang Mai, depending on where you are coming from. The most common way of getting there is by flying to Chiang Mai International Airport, which offers direct flights from most major cities in Southeast Asia.
3. Is Chiang Mai Safe?
Chiang Mai is generally a safe place to visit, with a relatively low crime rate. However, like any other city, it is always advisable to exercise caution and take appropriate safety measures, such as not carrying too much cash, using only registered taxis or ride-sharing services, and not walking alone in unlit or deserted areas at night.
4. What’s The Best Way To Get Around Chiang Mai?
The best way to get around Chiang Mai is by tuk-tuk, songthaew, or rented motorbike. Tuk-tuks are the most convenient way to get around the city center, while songthaews (shared taxis) are best for traveling to nearby towns and attractions. Renting a motorbike is a great way to explore the city and its surroundings independently.
5. What Are The Must-See Attractions In Chiang Mai?
There are many must-see attractions in Chiang Mai, including Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, an ancient mountain temple, the historic old town, and the Night Bazaar, where you can explore local handicrafts, street food, and other souvenirs.
6. What Are The Best Activities To Do In Chiang Mai?
Chiang Mai offers a host of exciting activities to visitors, ranging from cooking classes to trekking, bamboo rafting, and visiting elephant sanctuaries. Other popular activities include taking a Thai massage course, visiting the city’s many art galleries and museums, and exploring the local markets.
7. What’s The Local Currency In Chiang Mai?
The local currency in Chiang Mai is the Thai baht (THB).
8. What’s The Best Place To Exchange Money In Chiang Mai?
There are many places to exchange money in Chiang Mai, including banks, ATMs, and money exchange bureaus. However, it’s usually best to use an ATM to withdraw cash or exchange money at a reputable bank or money exchange bureau, as these tend to offer the most favorable exchange rates.
9. What’s The Local Language In Chiang Mai?
The local language in Chiang Mai is Thai, but English is widely spoken and understood, especially in tourist areas.
10. What’s The Food Like In Chiang Mai?
Chiang Mai is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine, which features a blend of Thai and regional specialties. Some of the most popular local dishes include khao soi (curried noodle soup), sai ua (northern Thai sausage), and nam phrik ong (spicy tomato and pork dip).
Conclusion
Chiang Mai is a beautiful and exciting city that offers a wealth of activities and attractions to visitors. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage, trekking through its beautiful hills and mountains, or simply relaxing and enjoying the local cuisine, Chiang Mai is sure to offer something for everyone. So why not plan your visit today and experience all that this amazing city has to offer?
The 3 Best Group Tours in Chiang Mai: Frequently Asked Questions
Chiang Mai offers a plethora of opportunities for exploration and adventure, with its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant local communities. Choosing the best group tour for your interests and needs can be overwhelming, so we’ve compiled the most frequently asked questions about the 3 best group tours in Chiang Mai to make your decision easier.
1. What are the top three group tours in Chiang Mai?
The three best group tours in Chiang Mai are:
a. Doi Inthanon National Park Tour
Visitors to Chiang Mai can explore Thailand’s highest mountain, Doi Inthanon, with this guided tour. The park provides breathtaking views of the surrounding area, with its waterfalls, lush forests, and hill tribe villages. This full-day tour offers the opportunity to explore the park’s natural beauty while learning about the history and culture of the local communities.
b. Chiang Rai White Temple and Golden Triangle Tour
One of the most popular tours from Chiang Mai is the Chiang Rai White Temple and Golden Triangle Tour. This tour includes a visit to the stunning White Temple and Golden Triangle complex, an area in northern Thailand where Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand converge. Visitors can also learn about the area’s opium trade history while taking in the scenic beauty of the Mekong River.
c. Thai Cooking Class and Local Market Tour
For those interested in Thai cuisine, this tour offers the chance to explore a local market, learn about Thai ingredients, and take part in a cooking class. Visitors can learn how to create authentic Thai dishes with skilled chefs while enjoying a delicious meal and the experience of cooking with local ingredients.
2. How long are each of these tours?
Each of these group tours is offered as a full-day tour, typically lasting between 8-9 hours.
3. How much does each tour cost?
The cost of each tour may vary, depending on the tour company and the time of year. Typically, prices range from $40-$60 USD per person.
4. What does each tour entail?
A. Doi Inthanon National Park Tour
This tour starts with a visit to Wachirathan Waterfall, followed by a trek to the highest peak of Doi Inthanon National Park. Visitors will also visit King Intha’s Pagaoda, which is a memorial to the King and Queen of Thailand, and learn about the local hill tribe communities. The tour includes transportation, lunch, and a knowledgeable guide.
B. Chiang Rai White Temple and Golden Triangle Tour
This tour includes a visit to the stunning White Temple and Golden Triangle complex, an area in northern Thailand where Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand converge. Visitors can also learn about the area’s opium trade history while taking in the scenic beauty of the Mekong River. The tour includes transportation, lunch, and a knowledgeable guide.
C. Thai Cooking Class and Local Market Tour
This tour provides an opportunity to explore a local market with a guide, learn about Thai ingredients, and participate in a cooking class. Visitors can learn how to create authentic Thai dishes while enjoying a delicious meal made with local ingredients. The tour includes transportation, lunch, and a knowledgeable guide.
5. Are these tours suitable for children?
Each of these tours can be suitable for children, depending on their age and interests. The Doi Inthanon National Park tour may be more physically demanding than the other two tours and may not be suitable for younger children or those with mobility issues. The Chiang Rai White Temple and Golden Triangle Tour may be more suitable for older children who can appreciate the area’s history and scenic beauty. The Thai Cooking Class and Local Market Tour is typically enjoyable for all ages, as it provides the opportunity to learn about Thai cuisine and ingredients.
6. Do these tours include transportation and meals?
Yes, each of these tours includes transportation and lunch, as well as a knowledgeable guide who can provide valuable insight and information about the destinations and activities. Visitors should confirm the specific details of each tour with their chosen tour company.
7. How can I book these tours?
These tours can be booked through various tour companies in Chiang Mai. Visitors can check with their hotels or search online for recommendations and options. It is important to choose a reputable tour company with experienced guides to ensure the best possible experience.
In Conclusion
Choosing the best group tour in Chiang Mai can be daunting, but by considering the nature of the most popular tours and taking into account your own interests and needs, you can easily select the tour that best suits you. Whether you prefer to explore natural beauty, learn about local history and culture, or indulge in Thai cuisine, these tours offer unique and memorable experiences in the vibrant and beautiful city of Chiang Mai.
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