Trekking and Bamboo Rafting
Price
Duration
Max People
Min Age
Overview
Embark on an Unforgettable Adventure: Trek to a Hidden Lahu Village and Bamboo Raft Through a Stunning Valley
Ready for a unique adventure off the beaten path? Join us for an exciting 1-day trekking and bamboo rafting journey in Chiang Mai, where you'll explore a remote Lahu hilltribe village and float down a breathtaking river valley. This is an experience few tourists ever get to see – a blend of rich culture, challenging terrain, and stunning natural beauty.
Your adventure begins with a scenic 1.5-hour drive from Chiang Mai to the Mae Teang district, where the trek begins. Hike through lush, forested mountains, pushing your limits on a challenging ascent to the crest of the mountain. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Mae Teang valley, offering the perfect photo op before continuing on to the Lahu village. Nestled along the Teang River, this tranquil village can only be accessed by foot or boat, making it a truly secluded destination.
The 5km hike, with 300m of elevation gain, leads you down into the heart of the village, where you'll immerse yourself in the authentic Lahu way of life. Home to just 200 residents, the village is a peaceful haven, with rustic wooden houses perched on the hillside overlooking the river. Enjoy a traditional lunch prepared over an open fire in one of these charming homes, and take a leisurely stroll through the village to capture its serene beauty.
After your village visit, it’s time for the second leg of your journey: bamboo rafting on the Teang River. Relax as you float downstream through a deep, lush gorge, surrounded by towering mountains and thick forests. The gentle current is occasionally interrupted by class 1/2 rapids, adding a bit of thrill to the experience. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for exotic birdlife and take a refreshing dip in the cool waters. You’ll have the chance to help steer your bamboo raft, guided by a local captain from the village.
After approximately 10km, you’ll reach Sop Kai, the endpoint of your rafting adventure, where you’ll be transported back to Chiang Mai in comfort, with memories of an extraordinary day spent in one of Chiang Mai’s hidden gems.
Don’t miss out on this thrilling day of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Perfect for those looking to go beyond the typical tourist spots, this trek and rafting experience promises to be one of the highlights of your time in Chiang Mai.
Included/Excluded
- Pick up / drop off service
- Comfortable air conditioned transportation
- Snacks, water and local lunch
- Local Lahu guide
- Bamboo raft rental with life jackets
- Hiking poles
- Guide gratuity
Tour Plan
08.00am – 8.30am Hotel pick up
Pick up from your hotel and begin the drive north the the start of the hike.
10.15am – Arrive at starting point, gear up and set off!
Once at the start of the hike we'll prepare all the gear and begin the walk. There is a small local shop if you'd like some additional snacks / drinks.
12.00pm – Snack stop
The first half of the hike is mostly uphill, once we reach the highest point we'll stop for a break.
13.30am – Arrive in village
Descend to the Lahu village and enjoy a local lunch. After lunch, wander around the village taking photos and enjoying the peace and quiet.
14.30pm – Bamboo rafting down the Teang river
Meet our bamboo raft captain and set off for the rafting journey. You can stop and swim along the way or simply sit back and relax.
16.30pm – Finish the rafting and prepare to head back to city
The finish time is dependent on the time of year / water flow, once we finish the rafting we'll change into dry clothes and head back to the city.
18.00pm – Arrive in Chiang Mai
We will drop you off at your hotel or accommodation and conclude the tour.
Additional Information
What you get from the trip
Experience hiking to a remove village seldom visited by tourists, glimpse at the life of a Lahu community with no road access to the outside world and enjoy the thrill of real bamboo rafting along a stretch of river with no development.
What to bring and to wear
Hiking shorts/long trousers, comfortable shirt / tshirt. hiking shoes, clothes you don’t mind getting wet. Hat, sunglasses, mosquito repellent spray, waterproof bag.
There is no minimum age, but participants should be in good physical shape and able to walk for several km over uneven terrain with some sections requiring scrambling. Swimming isn’t essential but being confident in water will make the rafting more enjoyable. Immerse yourself in nature with this amazing Chiang Mai trekking and bamboo rafting tour.