Two-Day Mae Kampong Experience: Nature, Culture & Connection

Venture deep into the forested mountains east of Chiang Mai on an unforgettable two-day journey to the village of Mae Kampong. Hike through lush jungle trails, connect with welcoming locals, cook traditional Thai dishes, and unwind with a one-of-a-kind herbal sauna experience. It’s a perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation — ideal for travelers seeking an authentic escape.

Day 1: Into the Mountains and Gibbon Territory

Your adventure begins with a pickup from Chiang Mai city, followed by a scenic one-hour drive east toward the mountainous border of Lampang Province. Your destination: the tranquil village of Mae Kampong, nestled at 1,300 meters (4,200 feet) above sea level.

Before reaching the village, we’ll take a short forest hike in search of the area’s elusive gibbons. These incredible primates were reintroduced into the wild through a local rehabilitation project and now live freely in a protected section of the forest. A portion of your tour fee directly supports the caretakers who safeguard these gibbons — providing food during lean seasons and ensuring their continued safety, while also sustaining their families and way of life.

Guided by one of these caretakers, we’ll trek to a secluded viewing area where you’ll learn about the gibbons’ behavior, habitat, and the inspiring conservation work that keeps their population thriving. As they are truly wild animals, sightings can’t be guaranteed — but we’ll adjust our timing and route to give you the best chance.

From there, we’ll continue on to Mae Kampong. Take time to wander its charming wooden houses, listen to the sound of mountain streams, and feel the calm rhythm of daily village life. We’ll visit a nearby waterfall and pause for a local coffee overlooking the valley before setting out on a peaceful 3-kilometer (1.8-mile) forest walk along a trail rarely seen by tourists.

Along the way, you’ll encounter one of the oldest and most sacred trees in Chiang Mai. Your village guide will introduce you to the area’s rich biodiversity — pointing out native plants, sharing local folklore, and inviting you to engage all your senses through hands-on encounters with edible herbs, fragrant leaves, and wild botanicals.

After lunch, you’ll settle into your Mae Kampong homestay and enjoy some downtime. As evening approaches, join your host and guide to help cook dinner — a warm, interactive experience where you’ll learn how to prepare authentic northern Thai dishes using locally grown ingredients. Gather around the table to share your meal, stories, and laughter before retreating for a peaceful night in the mountains.

Wellness and Relaxation

Once you’ve checked into your accommodation, you’ll have the option to take part in a truly unique herbal sauna experience. Using freshly foraged forest herbs and medicinal plants, locals prepare an open-air sauna and steam room that feels like a ritual from another time. Wrapped in an herbal blanket and warmed by charcoal embers beneath your bed, you’ll breathe in the healing aromas of lemongrass, camphor, and wild ginger in a deeply grounding and rejuvenating experience. You can alternate between the sauna and steam room as much as you like, while your hosts explain the traditional uses of the herbs.

There’s no sleek spa facility here — just a slow, earthy ritual that brings you closer to nature and the local way of life. Afterward, take a gentle stroll through the lantern-lit village or enjoy a simple dinner at a local restaurant before turning in for the night.

Day 2: Morning Tranquility and Thai Cooking Class

Your second day in Mae Kampong begins at an unhurried pace, allowing you to fully absorb the calm mountain atmosphere. Wake up to the sound of birdsong and the scent of fresh coffee drifting through the valley. Breakfast is served with sweeping views of the surrounding hills — a moment to slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate the stillness of village life.

Late in the morning, join your host for an intimate Thai cooking class. Learn the secrets behind a few classic northern dishes — from spicy chili pastes to fragrant curries — and discover how locals balance flavor using simple, homegrown ingredients. This hands-on experience isn’t just about food; it’s about connection, laughter, and sharing a piece of daily life in Mae Kampong. Enjoy the fruits of your labor together for lunch in the cool mountain air.

After lunch, take a final walk through the village, perhaps stop by a small shop for handmade tea or local crafts, and bid farewell to your hosts. In the early afternoon, we’ll begin the scenic drive back to Chiang Mai, concluding your journey with new memories, fresh energy, and a deeper appreciation for northern Thailand’s mountain culture.