Thailand Trekking

Trekking general information

MAIN TREKKING REGIONS IN THAILAND

Trekking in Chiang Mai Province: Explore Northern Thailand's Hidden Gems

Chiang Mai province offers some of the best trekking trips in Northern Thailand, making it a must-visit destination for adventure seekers. The most popular trekking areas include the Doi Chiangdao mountain range, Mae Taeng highlands, and the Mae Taeng river valley.

Doi Chiangdao Mountain (Doi Luang Chiang Dao Wildlife conservation area)

Located just an hour's drive from Chiang Mai, the Doi Chiangdao mountain range features stunning jungles, breathtaking waterfalls, and wild rivers. Doi Chiangdao, also known as Doi Luang, is the third tallest mountain in Thailand, forming a striking massif backdrop to Chiangdao town. As part of a Biosphere conservation area, exploration in this region is regulated, and independent trekking is not allowed due to access restrictions. This makes organizing treks more complex, but the pristine beauty is undoubtedly worth the effort. Active-Thailand is not offering programs in the Doi Luang Chiang Dao sanctuary.

Challenging Trekking Adventures in the Mae Taeng Ranges

Trekking in the Mae Taeng ranges presents an exciting challenge as you navigate rugged landscapes, with the Mae Taeng River gracefully cutting through the mountains. This stunning area offers an immersive experience in Northern Thailand's natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts.

One-Day to Three-Day Trekking Immersions with Active Thailand

Active Thailand offers exclusive day-trek and two or three-day trekking immersions in the Mae Taeng region. These guided treks allow you to explore the breathtaking scenery, encounter diverse wildlife, and connect with local cultures. Each trek is designed to provide a true adventure, showcasing the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of the Mae Taeng area.

For travelers with limited time, we offer an Highland day trek as well as an exciting overnight trek.

Join us for an unforgettable trekking experience that combines challenge and beauty in one of Thailand's most spectacular regions with our 3 days trek program Mae Taeng highlands to the Mae Taeng river valley.

Doi Angkhan and Pha Hom Phom

Further north, you'll discover the Doi Angkhan area and Pha Hom Phom mountain. Although treks in these regions are less popular, they provide unique experiences away from the crowds. However, these treks may require additional logistics and transportation to access.

Discover Doi Inthanon: Thailand's Tallest Mountain

Located to the southwest of Chiang Mai city, Doi Inthanon is the tallest mountain in Thailand, renowned for its stunning waterfalls and diverse jungle trails. As part of the Doi Inthanon National Park, this breathtaking destination is one of the most popular national parks in Northern Thailand, attracting nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Trekking in Doi Inthanon National Park

Hiking in Doi Inthanon is typically accessible for all skill levels, featuring well-maintained trails authorized by the National Park. To ensure a safe and enriching experience, visitors are required to hire local trekking guides when exploring the park.

One of the most famous treks is the Pa Dok Siew trek, a two-hour, easy hike that leads you through lush landscapes and beautiful waterfalls, making it perfect for families and casual hikers.

Doi Inthanon Excursions and Trips with Active Thailand

Active Thailand offers a variety of excursions and trips to explore Doi Inthanon. Whether you’re interested in a guided trek or a scenic tour of the park's highlights, our knowledgeable team is here to help. For more information and to book your adventure, please inquire via email.

The Mae Wang river Valley

Mae Wang Valley is a popular destination due to its close proximity to Chiang Mai, offering stunning scenery with its winding river, picturesque waterfalls, and numerous small family-owned elephant camps. This vibrant area appeals mainly to young travelers and backpackers looking for adventure and natural beauty.

Typical Day Trips and Experiences

Organized day trips in Mae Wang Valley often include a short trek that leads to one of the beautiful waterfalls in the area, combined with a visit to a local elephant camp. While the region attracts many visitors, especially during the winter season, it's important to note that it may not provide the pristine, untouched experience some travel seekers desire.

Active Thailand provides a variety of options for exploring Mae Wang Valley, including a day trip and an overnight private trip. During the overnight trip, your guide will take you to lesser-known spots such as remote mountain temples and secluded waterfalls, allowing you to experience the area in a unique way. We highly recommend our day trip to Mae Wang Valley, which features an enjoyable hike through stunning landscapes, a breathtaking waterfall and a visit to a Karen hill tribe village.

Join us for an unforgettable day trip in Mae Wang Valley!

Mae Hong Son

The Mae Hong Son area, located on the remote western side of northern Thailand bordering Myanmar (Burma), is very rugged and remote. We also propose an overnight trek and a 3-day trek program, best explored during the rainy season or winter. Our treks depart from Mae Hong Son town or Pai. During our circuit the Mae Hong Son Explorer, participants will discover this part of the country.

Tak Province

Nestled halfway between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, Tak Province is home to the remote and picturesque valley of Umphang. Known for its wild landscapes and rich biodiversity, this area offers one of the most adventurous trekking experiences in Thailand.

Trekking in Umphang

Departing from Mae Sot. The treks we propose in Umphang take you through the stunning Mae Nam Khlong and Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary. While spotting wildlife can be challenging due to the nocturnal habits of many animals, the trek itself is an unforgettable journey through pristine nature. The sanctuary is a haven for those looking to immerse themselves in Thailand's natural beauty.

Active-Thailand's trekking programs are organized based on the season and the number of participants, ensuring that your experience is perfectly tailored to your private group. For more information about trekking in Umphang and to inquire about our various programs, please contact us.

Central Thailand

Central Thailand offers excellent trekking opportunities and wildlife observation in Khao Yai National Park. At the moment, Active-Thailand does not offer tours and program in this region.

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Jungle Trekking in North Thailand

SEASONS - Best Time for Trekking and Outdoor Activities

Winter season (cool season)

If you're looking for the perfect time to embark on trekking and outdoor adventures in northern Thailand, the ideal period is from October to the end of February during the cool season. This season not only offers comfortable temperatures for trekking but is also the busiest tourist season, making it a vibrant time to explore the country.

Hot season

The hot season, spanning from March to the end of May, is generally not recommended for outdoor activities due to the intense heat and haze from agricultural burning. Despite this, it's important to note that trekking in Thailand is possible year-round, with each season bringing its own unique experiences.

The rainy season

The rainy season, which lasts from June to October, can also be a great time for trekking. The landscape is exceptionally lush and green, creating a picturesque backdrop for your adventures. However, be mindful that trails may be more challenging during this time due to mud and water, so proper planning and gear are essential.

Plan Your Trekking Adventure!

Whether you choose to trek in the cool season, embrace the vibrancy of the rainy season, or explore the quieter months, Thailand offers an array of breathtaking outdoor experiences year-round.

Start planning your trekking adventure today and explore the wonders of Northern Thailand!

Please read our trekking FAQ below for more information.

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Trekking FAQ

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you cannot find an answer to your question.

What is the best season for your trekking tours?

The best season is definitely the cool season which starts begin of November until the end of February. The following months, it can get fairly warm, and hazy. The second best period is during the rainy season, which is June to the end of October. It can be sometimes challenging as it's wet, but the sky is clear, the nature is lush green, and temperatures are mild. That's the season we like the most with July and August being the best months. More info about weather and seasons in northern Thailand.

What attire should I wear and what should I take on a trek?

Sportswear is recommended. Bring a comfortable pair of light trekking shoes or runners. During the wet season you might want to wear waterproof or leather trekking boots. A backpack is essential as participants will carry their personal gear. Depending of the length of the trek program, we recommend a sturdy and comfortable backpack. A 40 or 45L size should be enough for the overnight treks (1 or 2 nights). Always remember, travel light is the rule! A full kit list will be sent after your trek registration. For the day trips, we recommend a small 20L size comfortable backpack which should be enough to carry your personal belongings and some drinking water.

Do you visit or stay in hill tribe villages?

Most of our treks emphasis on nature and the sportive and adventure side of the trip. We are not promoting "hill tribe treks", like most other companies would do. However sometimes we do stay at hill tribe villages, and when this is the cases, your guide will be very familiar with our host family, and they will help participants to understand their culture and way of life. Some of our staff are Karen ethnics and thus have a great knowledge about culture and traditions.

How cold does it gets during the winter season?

Temperatures can drop down quite a lot, especially in the mountains. The temperature difference between day and night can be very wide, and as soon as the sun sets, you can feel the cool climate. Please make sure you are bringing a fleece, some long pants for the evening, as trainers and a long sleeve shirt. We will provide quality sleeping bags and blankets if necessary.

Are we staying in the same houses as villagers?

Depending the season, we use hill tribe village huts, which are mostly private use for our group. Otherwise, we will set up accommodation in tents when appropriate, depending on the season. Some of the villages are sometimes visited by Bangkok tourists during the peak winter season, looking for cold temperatures and foggy mornings. It could be crowded and perhaps noisy too.

What are the risks of malaria or dengue fever on your treks?

Malaria and Dengue fever

There is a seasonal variation of malaria and Dengue risk in Thailand. The highest risk is during the rainy season. There are no risks of malaria mosquitoes in the cities, but a risk of dengue fever.

Mosquitoes that bring malaria are usually active in the night time especially in dusk and dawn.

Only hilly or forested areas are endemic. There is no malaria transmission in urban areas. Most cases are from the borders especially Thai – Myanmar border jungle. Our treks are not in deep forest and inhabited jungle.

You can bring mosquito repellent from home, or purchase it locally. At local pharmacies and, in major cities like Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, you can find stores like Boots and Watson.

The best prevention is protection

Use of protective clothing, bed nets and insect repellents.
Make sure you sleep under a mosquito net (well installed, and without holes).
Use of protective clothing, wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and long pants, lose fit and light colors are better. Use mosquito repellents, (in Thai ยากันยุง ) repellents are available as chemicals such as DEET, or in natural products. We recommend the natural repellents with Eucalyptus oil and or citronella. If you have a real concern, please drop us a mail.