Mae Kampong Cooking Class
Price
Duration
Max People
Min Age
Overview
Mae Kampong Cooking Class
Hike, forage, and feast in one unforgettable day!
Escape the city and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of the northern Thai countryside on this unique one-day experience. Set in the stunning mountain village of Mae Kampong, our Jungle Cooking School in Chiang Mai blends gentle trekking, learning about herbs and plants used in cooking, and hands-on cooking into a truly memorable day.
What to Expect
We begin with a scenic one-hour drive from Chiang Mai to the lush hills of Mae Kampong—an idyllic village known for its cool climate, forested landscapes, and authentic charm. Just visiting Mae Kampong is a highlight for many travelers, and you'll have the chance to wander the streets, engage with the locals and marvel at the amazing setting.
Our journey continues on foot with a guided nature walk through the surrounding jungle. Led by a knowledgeable local expert, we’ll stop often to touch, smell, and taste wild herbs and plants traditionally used in northern Thai cuisine. Depending on the season, we may even forage ingredients for your upcoming cooking class! The hike is easy-going, covering around 1–2 km, and includes a visit to the picturesque Mae Kampong Waterfall.
After the trek, we head to a local home where your culinary adventure begins. In a relaxed, welcoming setting with lovely jungle views, you’ll learn how to prepare a mix of iconic Thai dishes and lesser-known regional specialties, with vegetarian and vegan options available. You'll be introduced to fresh ingredients, traditional techniques, and then get hands-on to cook your own meal—before sitting down to enjoy the delicious results.
Tour Highlights
Guided Jungle Walk & Foraging – Explore Mae Kampong’s lush forests, learn about edible herbs and plants, and even forage ingredients for your meal.
Hands-On Cooking Class – Cook authentic northern Thai dishes in a relaxed local home with beautiful jungle views—vegetarian and vegan options available.
Visit Mae Kampong Village & Waterfall – Discover one of Chiang Mai’s most charming mountain villages and stop by the scenic Mae Kampong Waterfall.
Community-Based Experience – Support sustainable tourism with every booking—benefiting local guides and preserving village culture.
100% unique activity in Chiang Mai
Included/Excluded
- Air conditioned transportation
- Guided hike through the forest, learning about the herbs and plants
- Visit to Mae Kampong waterfall
- Welcome drink at cooking class
- All ingredients for 3 courses
- Online cook book
Tour Plan
08.00am - 08.30am - Pick Up
We'll pick you up within city limits and drive approx 1 hour 20 minutes to Mae Kampong village
10.00am - 11am - Village and Forest Walk
Explore the charming Mae Kampong village and venture into the surrounding forest with a local guide. Along the way, you’ll discover the edible plants that grow in the area — tasting, touching, and smelling as you go.
11.30am - Visit Local Waterfall
We’ll pause at the beautiful Mae Kampong Waterfall for a short break before continuing on to the nearby cooking class.
12pm - Begin the Cooking Class!
After a refreshing welcome drink, it’s time to start cooking! You’ll be able to choose from several menu options — including vegetarian and vegan — and prepare a mix of stir-fried dishes, curries, soups, and desserts.
14.00pm - Lunch
After all your hard work, it’s time to enjoy the delicious dishes you’ve prepared! Savor your lunch while taking in the stunning village views and cool mountain air in this peaceful forest setting.
15.00pm - 16.00pm - Return to City
After lunch, we’ll wrap up the program and head back to Chiang Mai, where you’ll be dropped off at your accommodation.
Additional Information
Why Choose this Cooking School?
This unique experience goes far beyond the kitchen. Set in the beautiful mountain village of Mae Kampong, you’ll explore where many traditional Thai ingredients come from — seeing, touching, and tasting them in their natural environment. The cool temperatures and peaceful forest setting make it a refreshing escape from the city.
A True Taste of Local Life
After a light hike through the village and forest, you’ll cook in an intimate, casual setting with local hosts who share their passion for authentic Thai cuisine. The menu blends traditional recipes with a few familiar favorites, giving you a deeper connection to the flavors and culture of northern Thailand.