Gentle Giants & Jungle Rivers
Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Chiang Mai City.
Private English-speaking guide.
Tour Insurance
Transportation
Drinking Water
Lunch
From Price per person
price based on 2 persons travelling or
per person for join-in tours.
$126
Excursion Highlights
- Immerse yourself in the serene world of elephants at the Elephant Village Sanctuary, where you can feed and walk alongside these gentle giants.
- Experience the vibrant local culture at the Mae Wang market, setting the stage for a day filled with authentic Thai experiences.
- Drift downriver on a traditional bamboo raft, surrounded by lush jungle scenery, for a tranquil end to your unforgettable day.
Gentle Giants & Jungle Rivers
Your adventure begins with a morning pickup from your hotel in Chiang Mai at 8:00 AM, leading you to the vibrant Mae Wang market. Here, you will immerse yourself in the local atmosphere, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the bustling market. Following this cultural experience, you will spend the majority of your day at the Elephant Village Sanctuary, a place dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of these magnificent creatures. This day is all about connection; you will roll up your sleeves to help prepare a nutritious feast of fruit and sugarcane for the elephants. As you feed them by hand, you’ll feel the gentle tickle of their trunks, creating moments of pure joy. Strolling beside them through the forest, you will observe their natural behaviors and enjoy the peaceful environment that surrounds you. The highlight of your day will undoubtedly be the joyful, splash-filled bath in the river, where you can truly connect with these majestic animals in a raw and unforgettable experience.
As noon approaches, a delightful local lunch will be served at the sanctuary, allowing you to savor the flavors of the region in a tranquil and natural setting. After fully enjoying your time with the elephants, the adventure continues on the water. A local guide will expertly steer your traditional bamboo raft on a gentle journey downriver. Allow the current to carry you as you admire the lush jungle scenery and listen to the symphony of nature surrounding you. This peaceful and immersive experience serves as a perfect conclusion to your day. Finally, your tour will wrap up with a transfer to your hotel in Chiang Rai, making this day a seamless and pleasant transition for travelers wishing to connect the two northern cities.
Destination Information
Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai is set against a backdrop of lush hills and fertile plains in northern Thailand, offering a quieter and more contemplative atmosphere compared to the busier urban centres of the region. The city’s character is shaped by its blend of traditional northern Thai culture and the influences of diverse hill tribe communities that inhabit the surrounding highlands. Its streets reveal a mix of modest local markets, contemporary buildings, and temples that reflect both historical and modern architectural styles. The nearby landscape features rolling mountains and river valleys, which frame the city and support agricultural livelihoods. Among its distinctive landmarks, the White Temple stands out with its intricate white façade and unconventional artistic details, drawing visitors interested in contemporary religious art. The area around Chiang Rai also includes cultural sites like the Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park and the Doi Tung Royal Villa, which showcase regional heritage and craftsmanship. The proximity to the Golden Triangle region further situates Chiang Rai within a unique geographical and historical context, where traditional lifestyles continue alongside evolving cultural expressions.Travel Notes
- Pick-up from hotels in Chiang Mai typically begins at 8:00 AM; ensure clients are ready on time to maximize their experience.
- The visit to Mae Wang market offers a great opportunity to experience local culture; clients may want to bring small change for any local purchases.
- At the Elephant Village Sanctuary, clients will engage in hands-on activities such as preparing food for the elephants, which may require some physical activity and willingness to get a bit messy.
- During the elephant bathing experience, clients should be prepared to get wet; wearing quick-drying clothing is advisable.
- The bamboo rafting segment is generally calm and suitable for all ages, but clients should be aware that they may need to navigate some gentle currents.
- Lunch is served at the sanctuary in a natural setting; dietary restrictions should be communicated in advance to ensure appropriate meal options are provided.
- Travelers should be aware that the transition from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai will involve a scenic drive; encourage them to enjoy the views along the way.
- As this tour involves interaction with animals, remind clients to follow any safety guidelines provided by the sanctuary staff to ensure a safe experience for both themselves and the elephants.
Indicative Travel Distances
- Chiang Mai to Elephant Village Sanctuary: Approx. 60 km / approx. 1.5 hours by road.
- Elephant Village Sanctuary to Chiang Rai: Approx. 150 km / approx. 3 hours by road.
All travel distances and travel times are indicative only and may vary depending on traffic, weather, road conditions, routing, sightseeing stops and local operating conditions. Distances and travel times are based on direct routing and do not account for optional visits, detours or sightseeing activities included during the journey.
Included Services
- Private English-speaking guide.
- Transportation by local truck
- Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Chiang Mai City.
- Entrance & Activities
- Drinking water
- Lunch
- Tour Insurance
Excluded Services
- International and domestic flights unless specifically stated
- Travel insurance
- Meals and beverages not mentioned in the itinerary
- Personal expenses of any kind
- Gratuities and tips for guides, drivers and other service providers
- Any items not specifically mentioned under "Included in Your Excursion"
