Welcome to Thailand, a country you will immediately fall in love with. From its golden beaches to dense jungle, the country meets travelers with breathtaking scenery, friendly locals and provides a perfect blend of leisure and activity. Enjoy a Tuk Tuk ride in Bangkok, spend time at an elephant jungle sanctuary in Chiang Mai and embark on an unforgettable journey visiting Phan Nga Bay in Phuket. This program will be sure to check off you buck list, but will leave you longing to return.
Hotels:
- Chatrium Hotel Riverside, Bangkok
- Rati Lanna Riverside Spa Resort, Chiang Mai
- Katathani Phuket Beach Resort, Phuket
Included:
Meals:
- 9 Breakfasts
- 3 Lunches
- 3 Dinners
Activities:
- Visit the Grand Palace
- Experience riding on a Tuk Tuk
- Visit Wat Po Temple
- Partake in a Manhora dinner druise
- Visit the famous Waroros Market in Chiang Mai
- Enjoy a city tour of Chiang Mai riding in trishaw
- Spend time at an Elephant jungle sanctuary
- Partake in a hands on cooking class with a local family
- Cruise to Phang Nga Bay
Other Services:
- One round-trip group airport transfer privately in an air-conditioned vehicle
- Transportation privately in an air-conditioned vehicle during the tours mentioned on the program
- Official English-speaking guide service during the mentioned program
- Entrance fees, Road tolls, Taxes, VAT
- Bottled water provided on transport during transfers
Not Included:
- Tips for porters, guide and driver- the value of the tip is up to the client
- All other services not mentioned as included
- Personal expenses
- International and domestic airfare throughout the program
- International and domestic airport taxes, airport porter and extra baggage
- Hotel early check-in and late check-out
- Alcoholic drinks, personal expenses or entrance fees for any extra sightseeing
- Travel insurance
- Travel Visa
- Supplemental tours
Notes:
- International flights should arrive into Bangkok International airport and depart out of Phuket International Airport
- A domestic flight from Bangkok Airport to Chang Mai Airport on day 3 and from Chang Mai Airport to Phuket Airport on day 6 is required
996025
Day
1
Bangkok Arrival
Welcome to Thailand. Well known as the City of Angels, Bangkok is the present capital in Thailand. Besides the many temples and historic buildings here, such as The Grand Palace and Wat Arun, the list of iconic places to visit is endless. With its many canal networks, the Chaophraya River is given the name, “Venice of the East”.
Upon arrival at Suvarnabhumi Bangkok International Airport, you will be met by your local English-speaking guide and privately transferred to your hotel.
After check-in, the rest of the day is yours for leisure.
Accommodation: Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok
Day
2
Bangkok
Enjoy a wellness activity and breakfast at the hotel. We will start our tour with a visit to the Grand Palace. This must see structure is an architectural wonder featuring golden stupas, walls, and pillars encrusted in shining and colorful mosaics. Previously the residence of past Kings of Thailand, the group will see palaces once used for different occasions. The visit will include the Reception Hall, the Coronation Hall, the Throne Hall, the Royal Guest House, and Wat Phra Kaew, which houses the Emerald Buddha, and is regarded as the most sacred temple in Thailand. The Buddha is carved from a single piece of jade and is the most revered object in Thailand.
After the tour, you will be transferred by Tuk Tuk to visit Wat Po.
Wat Po is the most extensive and oldest temple that houses the gigantic gold-plated reclining Buddha with inlaid mother-of-pearl soles of 108 good lucks. Regarded as the first “university” of Thailand, the temple houses hundreds of Chedis, with Chedis of the Kings, mural paintings, inscriptions, and statues of educated people on varied subjects, including the original traditional Thai massage. Before departing, you will experience a 1-hour Thai or Foot massage at Wat Pho Massage School.
Return to your hotel and enjoy the afternoon at leisure. You may enjoy the gym or yoga near the hotel’s little orchid farm.
In the evening, you will depart for a Manhora Dinner Cruise. You will be welcomed on board with an inclusive dinner comprising a starter, 3 appetizers, 1 authentic Tom Yum Goong soup, 4 main courses, and 2 Thai desserts (menu is subject to change based on seasonality).
Dress code: Smart casual
Note: Gratuities and drinks are not included. Dinner cruise will be shared with other guests.
Afterwards, you will return to your hotel for a good night's sleep.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok
Day
3
Bangkok – Chiang Mai
Start your day off with a morning wellness activity and breakfast at the hotel.
When it’s time, you will be picked up and transferred to Bangkok Airport for your flight to Chiang Mai.
Popularly known as the Rose of the North, Chiang Mai is blessed with natural stunning beauty and a unique indigenous cultural identity. The city is situated on the Mae Ping River, surrounded by high mountain ranges and jungles.
Upon arrival at Chiang Mai International Airport, you will be met by your local English-speaking guide and privately transferred for a vegetarian lunch at Away Chiang Mai Thapae.
After check-in and some freshening up, it will be time to explore Chiang Mai! A short transfer will take you to a famous local Waroros Market. You will witness the original flavor and taste of true Thai markets. Walk through this colorful and lively market, and experience how the locals exchange their agricultural products and local goods, ranging from fresh food and fruits, to raw ingredients, for various Thai dishes and household goods.
Continue to Chiang Mai city by Trishaw, which takes you to Wat Pra Singh or Monastery of the Lion Lord. Founded in the 14th century to house the ashes of King Kham Fu and serve as the principal religious center of the Lanna Kingdom, the complex is a composition of several buildings that form the most famous temple in Chiang Mai. Lastly, we will visit Wat Chedi Luang or Temple of Big Stupa, dated back to the 14th century. It took about 100 years to finish the construction of the stupa, which at the time was the largest building in all of Lanna.
Return to the resort for an evening of leisure and dinner on your own.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Ratilanna Riverside Spa Resort
Day
4
Chiang Mai
Breakfast at your hotel.
Enjoy the day at leisure or go on one of the optional tours.
Optional Tour 1: Flight of the Gibbon Treetop Adventure—Quoted separately
Experience the beauty, magic and adventure of Thailand's rainforest like never before! High in the treetops of a pristine national park, you will glide through the jungle canopy through thrilling wire zip-lines, scenic sky bridges, and adrenaline-inducing abseils connected by 18 platforms.
Optional Tour 2: Lanna Countryside by bike–Quoted separately
Experience an exciting full-day adventure in beautiful Mae Taeng, a green and lush natural playground at the foot of the mountains just north of Chiang Mai. Rise early for a morning of superb cross-country mountain biking, followed by an exhilarating afternoon of whitewater rafting on the rapids of the Mae Taeng River. Just a short hop from Chiang Mai, you will get on your bike and ride through the verdant landscape of Mae Taeng on our secret trails, snaking on back country trails through the natural surroundings that will take you up and down. Enjoy stunning views of the valley formed by the Mae Taeng River, see local plantations and ride through small villages. After sighting the Mae Taeng River, we will embark on an exhilarating downstream run through grade 3 and 4 rapids. Ride the river's swell and experience the beauty of the remote areas as we follow the river through untouched wilderness and past quaint rural hill tribe villages.
Full safety instructions will be given before you enter the river, and professional guides will escort the trip for the best raft experience in Chiang Mai!
Optional Tour 3: Trekking at Mae Wang with Bamboo Rafting–Quoted separately
Today we will trek through the local village, enjoy swimming at a waterfall, then take time to meet the local Karen ethic tribe.
After a picnic lunch, it’s time to enjoy bamboo rafting. You will be taken on a 45-minute raft ride through the waterways of the Wang River. Enjoy the scenery on the route.
When it’s time, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Chiang Mai.
In the evening, it will be time to enjoy local food of the north on the Culinary Delights of Chiang Mai. This experience provides an insight into the culinary heritage of the “Rose of the North”. You will embark on a guided tour where you will sample the delights of Chiang Mai cuisine, including various mouthwatering local snacks, and the delicious Khao Soi—a delicious coconut curry noodle dish that is unique to Chiang Mai.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Ratilanna Riverside Spa Resort
Day
5
Chiang Mai
After a wellness activity and breakfast at the hotel, we will depart for the elephant jungle sanctuary. The sanctuary offers an enjoyable opportunity to spend quality time with elephants in their natural home, as well as gain an insight into their history and behavior.
On the morning of your visit, you will be picked up from the resort and will make your way through scenic agricultural areas, hills, and forests, before arriving at the sanctuary. There, you will learn a little about the elephants before changing into traditional Karen tribal clothing.
After being given bananas and sugar cane to feed to the elephants, you will walk with your guide through the sanctuary, where you will find free-roaming elephants. You can touch, feed, and interact with the elephants at your leisure while you learn about their lifestyle. After you have met all the elephants, you will accompany them to a nearby mud spa. Get muddy with the elephants as you apply a healthy cosmetic mud treatment to their skin. Continue on a walk with the elephants to a nearby river and join them in the water for a refreshing bath. Take a swim, help bathe, and brush the elephants while they wade and play in the water.
Once the elephants are clean, you can take some final photos with them, then it will be time to part ways with your new friends and change into some dry clothes. Finally, eat some snacks and seasonal fresh fruit, before we return to Chiang Mai for a few hours of leisure.
Later this afternoon, we head to Bandoo in Hangdong district to visit a local family. The home you will visit belongs to the Raunkaew-Yanon family, who arrived in the area almost 150 years ago. The family has continued the traditions of many generations in building their homes of teak wood and maintaining the natural surroundings in a manner now rarely seen in Chiang Mai. You will experience the simple Lanna way of life, including the family orchard, which offers many types of fruit such as banana, mango, and coconut. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to join in cooking with the fresh herbs used by the local family. Your evening meal will be served on the second floor terrace of the home where you will enjoy the panoramic view of this Lanna village.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Ratilanna Riverside Spa Resort
Day
6
Chiang Mai - Phuket
After breakfast and check out, you will be transferred to Chiang Mai Airport for your flight to Phuket.
Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and offers many great beaches, rocky capes, mountains, and forested hills.
After your arrival at Phuket Airport, you will be welcomed by your guide and transferred to the resort for check in. The rest of your evening will be at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Katathani Phuket Beach Resort
Day
7
Phuket
After breakfast at the hotel, we will depart for Phang Nga Bay.
This tour will provide an unforgettable journey through one of the most unique marine settings in the world. Start a perfect day with a drive across the causeway, to the mainland where a boat will await to take us on a cruise around the towering limestone karst islands in the famous Phang-Nga Bay. These majestic rocks rise dramatically out of the sea and are interspersed with mangroves and fascinating hidden caves. En–route, a visit is made to the renowned James Bond Islands, the location for “The Man with the Golden Gun” and countless other movies. From here, we will continue with a trip to the floating sea gypsy village of Koh Panyi where we will have lunch at a local restaurant. This village is known for being built on stilts at the end of the 18th century by nomadic fishermen.
After lunch, return to your hotel for the rest of the day at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Katathani Phuket Beach Resort
Day
8
Phuket
After a morning wellness activity and breakfast at the hotel, the rest of the day is at leisure unless you decide to take part in one of the optional tours.
Optional Tour: Phi Phi Island by Speedboat–Quoted separately
This excursion takes guests who would prefer a speedier trip to those offered by the much larger and slower boat cruises on an island-hopping trip that takes in the larger Phi Phi Don and the smaller Phi Phi Ley islands. Phi Phi Ley was the setting for the Hollywood film “The Beach”, which was mostly shot at the picturesque Maya Bay. At Phi Phi Don, discover the amazing limestone cliffs, long sandy beaches, and the clear emerald water. One advantage of this tour is that it gets to Phi Phi before the morning crowds arrive on the local long-tail-water boat taxis from Ao Nang. Guests can stop at Monkey Bay, snorkel over the amazing reefs that are abundant with colorful tropical fish, and then enjoy a delicious lunch at a restaurant.
Lunch is included on the tour.
Optional Tour: Phang Nga Hong by Starlight–Quoted separately
There are 42 islands in the Phang-Nga Bay National Park, and this cruise gives the best view of this fascinating land and seascape. Limestone cliffs rise vertically out of the sea, creating a surreal image fit for a mythological legend. We will use kayaks to visit the tidal caves and washouts called “Hongs,” which are a part of the incredible limestone karst formations that have made the area a backdrop for countless international movies. Besides exploring the area, we can swim, relax, or even make a Loy Krathong, which is a decorative float that the Thai people set sail on streams and rivers during the Loi Krathong festival on the evening of the full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar.
Lunch and dinner are included on the optional tour.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Katathani Phuket Beach Resort
Day
9
Phuket
After a morning wellness activity and leisurely breakfast at the hotel, enjoy the day to relax at the hotel or go on an optional tour.
Optional Tour: Phuket Heritage—Quoted separately
Today, you will pamper yourself in the alluring charms and treasures of Phuket. Your first stop will be at Taoist Jui Tui Chinese Shrine and Pud Jow Shrine with Kwan Yin Goddess. Here you can enjoy Chinese religious architecture and arts reflected by the shrine and statues.
Then continue to the center of the town where you will start your Phuket town exploration on foot. Get to know a wonderful blend of Chinese beliefs with architectural influences of European Classic and Roman periods brought in by Portuguese, Dutch, English, and French “visitors,” producing a new style of buildings in peninsular Siam.
Afterwards, we will make a stop at Thai Hua Museum. This two-story building originally served as a Chinese language school of the highest levels. You will notice the three archways with Ionic and Corinthian detailing on the walls, featuring Renaissance period and window frames of Roman style with bat motifs stucco in the outer ceiling. Our last stop will be to a local fresh market full of colorful characters of condiments such as dried herbs, spices, and fish. At the end of the tour, private transportation is provided to the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Katathani Phuket Beach Resort
Day
10
Phuket Departure
Today, you will enjoy a wellness activity and breakfast at your hotel. After check out, you will be picked up and transferred to Phuket Airport for your flight home.
Meals: Breakfast
The activity Level for this tour is:
Average - Some tours may include hiking or potential higher elevation hiking, biking, SUP, rafting, or kayaking in addition to walking on uneven surfaces or for longer periods of time.
Day 4:
Optional Tour 1: Flight of the Gibbon Treetop Adventure
Experience the beauty, magic and adventure of Thailand's rainforest like never before! High in the tree tops of a pristine national park, you will glide through the jungle canopy through thrilling wire zip-lines, scenic sky bridges, and adrenaline-inducing abseils connected by 18 platforms.
Optional Tour 2: Lanna Countryside by bike
Experience an exciting full-day adventure in beautiful Mae Taeng, a green and lush natural playground at the foot of the mountains just north of Chiang Mai. Rise early for a morning of superb cross country mountain biking followed by an exhilarating afternoon of white water rafting on the rapids of the Mae Taeng River. Just a short hop from Chiang Mai you get on our bikes and start to ride through the verdant landscape of Mae Taeng on our secret trails, snaking on back country trails through the natural surroundings that will take you up and down. Enjoy stunning views of the valley formed by the Mae Taeng River, see local plantations and ride through small villages. After sighting the Mae Taeng River we will embark on an exhilarating downstream run through grade 3 and 4 rapids. Ride the river's swell and experience the beauty of remote areas as we follow the river through untouched wilderness and past quaint rural hill tribe villages.
Full safety instructions will be given before you touch the river and professional guides will escort the trip for the best raft experience in Chiang Mai!
Optional Tour 3: Trekking at Mae Wang with Bamboo Rafting
Today we will trek through the local village, enjoy swimming at a waterfall and take time to meet the local Karen ethic tribe.
After a picnic lunch, it’s time to enjoy bamboo rafting. An approx. 45 minutes rafting will take you through the water way of the Wang River. Enjoy the scenery on route.
When it’s time you will be transferred back to your hotel in Chiang Mai.
Day 8
Optional Tour 1: Phi Phi Island by Speedboat
This excursion takes guests who would prefer a speedier trip than those offered by the much larger and slower boat cruises; on an island-hopping trip that takes in the larger Phi Phi Don and the smaller Phi Phi Ley islands. Phi Phi Ley was the setting for the Hollywood film “The Beach”, which was mostly shot at the picturesque Maya Bay. At Phi Phi Don, discover the amazing limestone cliffs, long sandy beaches and the clear emerald water. One advantage of this tour is that it gets to Phi Phi before the morning crowds arrive, on the local long- tail-water boat taxis from Ao Nang. Guests can stop at Monkey Bay, snorkel over the amazing reefs that are abundant with colorful tropical fish, and then enjoy a delicious lunch at a restaurant.
Lunch is included on the tour.
Optional Tour 2: Phang Nga Hong by Starlight
There are 42 islands in the Phang-Nga Bay National Park, and this cruise gives the best view of this fascinating land and seascape. Limestone cliffs rise vertically out of the sea, creating a surreal image fit for a mythological legend. We use kayaks to visit the tidal caves and washouts called “Hongs”, which are a part of the incredible limestone karst formations that have made the area a backdrop for countless international movies. Besides exploring the area, we can swim, relax, or even make a Loy Krathong; a decorative float that the Thai people set sail on streams and rivers during the Loi Krathong festival, on the evening of the full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar.
Lunch and dinner are included on the tour.
Day 9
Optional Tour: Phuket Heritage
Today, pamper yourself in the alluring charms and treasures of Phuket. Your first stop will be at Taoist Jui Tui Chinese Shrine and Pud Jow Shrine with Kwan Yin Goddess. Here you can enjoy Chinese religious architecture and arts reflected by the shrine and statues.
Then continue to the center of the town where you will start your Phuket town exploration on foot. Get to know a wonderful blend of Chinese belief with architectural influences of European Classic and Roman periods brought in by Portuguese, Dutch, English and French “visitors “, producing a new style of buildings in peninsular Siam.
After, we make a stop at Thai Hua Museum. This two-storied building was originally served as a Chinese language school of the highest levels. You will notice the three archways with Ionic and Corinthian detailing, the walls featuring Renaissance period and window frames of Roman style with bat motifs stucco in the outer ceiling. Our last stop is to a local fresh market full of colorful characters of condiments such as dried herbs, spices and fishes. At the end of the tour, private transportation is provided to the hotel.
Itinerary
Day
1
Bangkok Arrival
Welcome to Thailand. Well known as the City of Angels, Bangkok is the present capital in Thailand. Besides the many temples and historic buildings here, such as The Grand Palace and Wat Arun, the list of iconic places to visit is endless. With its many canal networks, the Chaophraya River is given the name, “Venice of the East”.
Upon arrival at Suvarnabhumi Bangkok International Airport, you will be met by your local English-speaking guide and privately transferred to your hotel.
After check-in, the rest of the day is yours for leisure.
Accommodation: Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok
Day
2
Bangkok
Enjoy a wellness activity and breakfast at the hotel. We will start our tour with a visit to the Grand Palace. This must see structure is an architectural wonder featuring golden stupas, walls, and pillars encrusted in shining and colorful mosaics. Previously the residence of past Kings of Thailand, the group will see palaces once used for different occasions. The visit will include the Reception Hall, the Coronation Hall, the Throne Hall, the Royal Guest House, and Wat Phra Kaew, which houses the Emerald Buddha, and is regarded as the most sacred temple in Thailand. The Buddha is carved from a single piece of jade and is the most revered object in Thailand.
After the tour, you will be transferred by Tuk Tuk to visit Wat Po.
Wat Po is the most extensive and oldest temple that houses the gigantic gold-plated reclining Buddha with inlaid mother-of-pearl soles of 108 good lucks. Regarded as the first “university” of Thailand, the temple houses hundreds of Chedis, with Chedis of the Kings, mural paintings, inscriptions, and statues of educated people on varied subjects, including the original traditional Thai massage. Before departing, you will experience a 1-hour Thai or Foot massage at Wat Pho Massage School.
Return to your hotel and enjoy the afternoon at leisure. You may enjoy the gym or yoga near the hotel’s little orchid farm.
In the evening, you will depart for a Manhora Dinner Cruise. You will be welcomed on board with an inclusive dinner comprising a starter, 3 appetizers, 1 authentic Tom Yum Goong soup, 4 main courses, and 2 Thai desserts (menu is subject to change based on seasonality).
Dress code: Smart casual
Note: Gratuities and drinks are not included. Dinner cruise will be shared with other guests.
Afterwards, you will return to your hotel for a good night's sleep.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok
Day
3
Bangkok – Chiang Mai
Start your day off with a morning wellness activity and breakfast at the hotel.
When it’s time, you will be picked up and transferred to Bangkok Airport for your flight to Chiang Mai.
Popularly known as the Rose of the North, Chiang Mai is blessed with natural stunning beauty and a unique indigenous cultural identity. The city is situated on the Mae Ping River, surrounded by high mountain ranges and jungles.
Upon arrival at Chiang Mai International Airport, you will be met by your local English-speaking guide and privately transferred for a vegetarian lunch at Away Chiang Mai Thapae.
After check-in and some freshening up, it will be time to explore Chiang Mai! A short transfer will take you to a famous local Waroros Market. You will witness the original flavor and taste of true Thai markets. Walk through this colorful and lively market, and experience how the locals exchange their agricultural products and local goods, ranging from fresh food and fruits, to raw ingredients, for various Thai dishes and household goods.
Continue to Chiang Mai city by Trishaw, which takes you to Wat Pra Singh or Monastery of the Lion Lord. Founded in the 14th century to house the ashes of King Kham Fu and serve as the principal religious center of the Lanna Kingdom, the complex is a composition of several buildings that form the most famous temple in Chiang Mai. Lastly, we will visit Wat Chedi Luang or Temple of Big Stupa, dated back to the 14th century. It took about 100 years to finish the construction of the stupa, which at the time was the largest building in all of Lanna.
Return to the resort for an evening of leisure and dinner on your own.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Ratilanna Riverside Spa Resort
Day
4
Chiang Mai
Breakfast at your hotel.
Enjoy the day at leisure or go on one of the optional tours.
Optional Tour 1: Flight of the Gibbon Treetop Adventure—Quoted separately
Experience the beauty, magic and adventure of Thailand's rainforest like never before! High in the treetops of a pristine national park, you will glide through the jungle canopy through thrilling wire zip-lines, scenic sky bridges, and adrenaline-inducing abseils connected by 18 platforms.
Optional Tour 2: Lanna Countryside by bike–Quoted separately
Experience an exciting full-day adventure in beautiful Mae Taeng, a green and lush natural playground at the foot of the mountains just north of Chiang Mai. Rise early for a morning of superb cross-country mountain biking, followed by an exhilarating afternoon of whitewater rafting on the rapids of the Mae Taeng River. Just a short hop from Chiang Mai, you will get on your bike and ride through the verdant landscape of Mae Taeng on our secret trails, snaking on back country trails through the natural surroundings that will take you up and down. Enjoy stunning views of the valley formed by the Mae Taeng River, see local plantations and ride through small villages. After sighting the Mae Taeng River, we will embark on an exhilarating downstream run through grade 3 and 4 rapids. Ride the river's swell and experience the beauty of the remote areas as we follow the river through untouched wilderness and past quaint rural hill tribe villages.
Full safety instructions will be given before you enter the river, and professional guides will escort the trip for the best raft experience in Chiang Mai!
Optional Tour 3: Trekking at Mae Wang with Bamboo Rafting–Quoted separately
Today we will trek through the local village, enjoy swimming at a waterfall, then take time to meet the local Karen ethic tribe.
After a picnic lunch, it’s time to enjoy bamboo rafting. You will be taken on a 45-minute raft ride through the waterways of the Wang River. Enjoy the scenery on the route.
When it’s time, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Chiang Mai.
In the evening, it will be time to enjoy local food of the north on the Culinary Delights of Chiang Mai. This experience provides an insight into the culinary heritage of the “Rose of the North”. You will embark on a guided tour where you will sample the delights of Chiang Mai cuisine, including various mouthwatering local snacks, and the delicious Khao Soi—a delicious coconut curry noodle dish that is unique to Chiang Mai.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Ratilanna Riverside Spa Resort
Day
5
Chiang Mai
After a wellness activity and breakfast at the hotel, we will depart for the elephant jungle sanctuary. The sanctuary offers an enjoyable opportunity to spend quality time with elephants in their natural home, as well as gain an insight into their history and behavior.
On the morning of your visit, you will be picked up from the resort and will make your way through scenic agricultural areas, hills, and forests, before arriving at the sanctuary. There, you will learn a little about the elephants before changing into traditional Karen tribal clothing.
After being given bananas and sugar cane to feed to the elephants, you will walk with your guide through the sanctuary, where you will find free-roaming elephants. You can touch, feed, and interact with the elephants at your leisure while you learn about their lifestyle. After you have met all the elephants, you will accompany them to a nearby mud spa. Get muddy with the elephants as you apply a healthy cosmetic mud treatment to their skin. Continue on a walk with the elephants to a nearby river and join them in the water for a refreshing bath. Take a swim, help bathe, and brush the elephants while they wade and play in the water.
Once the elephants are clean, you can take some final photos with them, then it will be time to part ways with your new friends and change into some dry clothes. Finally, eat some snacks and seasonal fresh fruit, before we return to Chiang Mai for a few hours of leisure.
Later this afternoon, we head to Bandoo in Hangdong district to visit a local family. The home you will visit belongs to the Raunkaew-Yanon family, who arrived in the area almost 150 years ago. The family has continued the traditions of many generations in building their homes of teak wood and maintaining the natural surroundings in a manner now rarely seen in Chiang Mai. You will experience the simple Lanna way of life, including the family orchard, which offers many types of fruit such as banana, mango, and coconut. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to join in cooking with the fresh herbs used by the local family. Your evening meal will be served on the second floor terrace of the home where you will enjoy the panoramic view of this Lanna village.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Ratilanna Riverside Spa Resort
Day
6
Chiang Mai - Phuket
After breakfast and check out, you will be transferred to Chiang Mai Airport for your flight to Phuket.
Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and offers many great beaches, rocky capes, mountains, and forested hills.
After your arrival at Phuket Airport, you will be welcomed by your guide and transferred to the resort for check in. The rest of your evening will be at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Katathani Phuket Beach Resort
Day
7
Phuket
After breakfast at the hotel, we will depart for Phang Nga Bay.
This tour will provide an unforgettable journey through one of the most unique marine settings in the world. Start a perfect day with a drive across the causeway, to the mainland where a boat will await to take us on a cruise around the towering limestone karst islands in the famous Phang-Nga Bay. These majestic rocks rise dramatically out of the sea and are interspersed with mangroves and fascinating hidden caves. En–route, a visit is made to the renowned James Bond Islands, the location for “The Man with the Golden Gun” and countless other movies. From here, we will continue with a trip to the floating sea gypsy village of Koh Panyi where we will have lunch at a local restaurant. This village is known for being built on stilts at the end of the 18th century by nomadic fishermen.
After lunch, return to your hotel for the rest of the day at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Katathani Phuket Beach Resort
Day
8
Phuket
After a morning wellness activity and breakfast at the hotel, the rest of the day is at leisure unless you decide to take part in one of the optional tours.
Optional Tour: Phi Phi Island by Speedboat–Quoted separately
This excursion takes guests who would prefer a speedier trip to those offered by the much larger and slower boat cruises on an island-hopping trip that takes in the larger Phi Phi Don and the smaller Phi Phi Ley islands. Phi Phi Ley was the setting for the Hollywood film “The Beach”, which was mostly shot at the picturesque Maya Bay. At Phi Phi Don, discover the amazing limestone cliffs, long sandy beaches, and the clear emerald water. One advantage of this tour is that it gets to Phi Phi before the morning crowds arrive on the local long-tail-water boat taxis from Ao Nang. Guests can stop at Monkey Bay, snorkel over the amazing reefs that are abundant with colorful tropical fish, and then enjoy a delicious lunch at a restaurant.
Lunch is included on the tour.
Optional Tour: Phang Nga Hong by Starlight–Quoted separately
There are 42 islands in the Phang-Nga Bay National Park, and this cruise gives the best view of this fascinating land and seascape. Limestone cliffs rise vertically out of the sea, creating a surreal image fit for a mythological legend. We will use kayaks to visit the tidal caves and washouts called “Hongs,” which are a part of the incredible limestone karst formations that have made the area a backdrop for countless international movies. Besides exploring the area, we can swim, relax, or even make a Loy Krathong, which is a decorative float that the Thai people set sail on streams and rivers during the Loi Krathong festival on the evening of the full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar.
Lunch and dinner are included on the optional tour.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Katathani Phuket Beach Resort
Day
9
Phuket
After a morning wellness activity and leisurely breakfast at the hotel, enjoy the day to relax at the hotel or go on an optional tour.
Optional Tour: Phuket Heritage—Quoted separately
Today, you will pamper yourself in the alluring charms and treasures of Phuket. Your first stop will be at Taoist Jui Tui Chinese Shrine and Pud Jow Shrine with Kwan Yin Goddess. Here you can enjoy Chinese religious architecture and arts reflected by the shrine and statues.
Then continue to the center of the town where you will start your Phuket town exploration on foot. Get to know a wonderful blend of Chinese beliefs with architectural influences of European Classic and Roman periods brought in by Portuguese, Dutch, English, and French “visitors,” producing a new style of buildings in peninsular Siam.
Afterwards, we will make a stop at Thai Hua Museum. This two-story building originally served as a Chinese language school of the highest levels. You will notice the three archways with Ionic and Corinthian detailing on the walls, featuring Renaissance period and window frames of Roman style with bat motifs stucco in the outer ceiling. Our last stop will be to a local fresh market full of colorful characters of condiments such as dried herbs, spices, and fish. At the end of the tour, private transportation is provided to the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Katathani Phuket Beach Resort
Day
10
Phuket Departure
Today, you will enjoy a wellness activity and breakfast at your hotel. After check out, you will be picked up and transferred to Phuket Airport for your flight home.
Meals: Breakfast
The activity Level for this tour is:
Average - Some tours may include hiking or potential higher elevation hiking, biking, SUP, rafting, or kayaking in addition to walking on uneven surfaces or for longer periods of time.
Supplemental Options:
Wellness Adventure in Thailand: Optional Tours
Day 4:
Optional Tour 1: Flight of the Gibbon Treetop Adventure
Experience the beauty, magic and adventure of Thailand's rainforest like never before! High in the tree tops of a pristine national park, you will glide through the jungle canopy through thrilling wire zip-lines, scenic sky bridges, and adrenaline-inducing abseils connected by 18 platforms.
Optional Tour 2: Lanna Countryside by bike
Experience an exciting full-day adventure in beautiful Mae Taeng, a green and lush natural playground at the foot of the mountains just north of Chiang Mai. Rise early for a morning of superb cross country mountain biking followed by an exhilarating afternoon of white water rafting on the rapids of the Mae Taeng River. Just a short hop from Chiang Mai you get on our bikes and start to ride through the verdant landscape of Mae Taeng on our secret trails, snaking on back country trails through the natural surroundings that will take you up and down. Enjoy stunning views of the valley formed by the Mae Taeng River, see local plantations and ride through small villages. After sighting the Mae Taeng River we will embark on an exhilarating downstream run through grade 3 and 4 rapids. Ride the river's swell and experience the beauty of remote areas as we follow the river through untouched wilderness and past quaint rural hill tribe villages.
Full safety instructions will be given before you touch the river and professional guides will escort the trip for the best raft experience in Chiang Mai!
Optional Tour 3: Trekking at Mae Wang with Bamboo Rafting
Today we will trek through the local village, enjoy swimming at a waterfall and take time to meet the local Karen ethic tribe.
After a picnic lunch, it’s time to enjoy bamboo rafting. An approx. 45 minutes rafting will take you through the water way of the Wang River. Enjoy the scenery on route.
When it’s time you will be transferred back to your hotel in Chiang Mai.
Day 8
Optional Tour 1: Phi Phi Island by Speedboat
This excursion takes guests who would prefer a speedier trip than those offered by the much larger and slower boat cruises; on an island-hopping trip that takes in the larger Phi Phi Don and the smaller Phi Phi Ley islands. Phi Phi Ley was the setting for the Hollywood film “The Beach”, which was mostly shot at the picturesque Maya Bay. At Phi Phi Don, discover the amazing limestone cliffs, long sandy beaches and the clear emerald water. One advantage of this tour is that it gets to Phi Phi before the morning crowds arrive, on the local long- tail-water boat taxis from Ao Nang. Guests can stop at Monkey Bay, snorkel over the amazing reefs that are abundant with colorful tropical fish, and then enjoy a delicious lunch at a restaurant.
Lunch is included on the tour.
Optional Tour 2: Phang Nga Hong by Starlight
There are 42 islands in the Phang-Nga Bay National Park, and this cruise gives the best view of this fascinating land and seascape. Limestone cliffs rise vertically out of the sea, creating a surreal image fit for a mythological legend. We use kayaks to visit the tidal caves and washouts called “Hongs”, which are a part of the incredible limestone karst formations that have made the area a backdrop for countless international movies. Besides exploring the area, we can swim, relax, or even make a Loy Krathong; a decorative float that the Thai people set sail on streams and rivers during the Loi Krathong festival, on the evening of the full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar.
Lunch and dinner are included on the tour.
Day 9
Optional Tour: Phuket Heritage
Today, pamper yourself in the alluring charms and treasures of Phuket. Your first stop will be at Taoist Jui Tui Chinese Shrine and Pud Jow Shrine with Kwan Yin Goddess. Here you can enjoy Chinese religious architecture and arts reflected by the shrine and statues.
Then continue to the center of the town where you will start your Phuket town exploration on foot. Get to know a wonderful blend of Chinese belief with architectural influences of European Classic and Roman periods brought in by Portuguese, Dutch, English and French “visitors “, producing a new style of buildings in peninsular Siam.
After, we make a stop at Thai Hua Museum. This two-storied building was originally served as a Chinese language school of the highest levels. You will notice the three archways with Ionic and Corinthian detailing, the walls featuring Renaissance period and window frames of Roman style with bat motifs stucco in the outer ceiling. Our last stop is to a local fresh market full of colorful characters of condiments such as dried herbs, spices and fishes. At the end of the tour, private transportation is provided to the hotel.
Have Questions? Email Us or call us at 754-457-9870
Terms, conditions and restrictions apply; pricing, availability, and other details subject to change and/ or apply to US or Canadian residents. Accommodation names are subject to availability. Should accommodation mentioned on specific itinerary not be available, a similar or higher rated accommodation will be substituted. Single room allotments are subject to availability and booked on a FCFS basis. Fit4Travel will work with each vendor or supplier to secure as many single rooms as possible to accommodate each traveler.
