Discover Chiang Mai's nature, culture, and elephants.

This itinerary is specifically designed for anyone wanting to explore Chiang Mai, especially families. It's suitable for both the New Year holidays and the summer break. It includes the main attractions as well as some hidden gems off the beaten track.

An overnight stay at the all-inclusive Bush Camp allows you to experience a close encounter with majestic elephants. You can not only explore the highlights – the spectacular landscape, historic temples, traditional Thai villages, and local cuisine – but also interact with the locals and experience Chiang Mai up close.

This is a private trip that we can tailor to your individual time constraints and interests.

"I still remember our glamping stay at the Bush Camp outside Chiang Mai. We sat there with cold drinks and watched elephants wandering and playing just a few meters away. No crowds, no hustle and bustle – just a very peaceful afternoon."

Travel Highlights

Travel Moments

A travel itinerary for inspiration

This daily itinerary is an excellent starting point and has been put together by our experts to present you with the best of Thailand at a comfortable pace.

Arrival in Chiang Mai

  • You will be met at the airport by your private tour guide. We will take you to your hotel where you can relax and recover from jet lag to be ready for the adventure ahead.

    • Chiang Dao Cave and the Sticky Waterfall

  • Our adventure begins with a pick-up at 8:00 am from your hotel.
  • Embark on a scenic 2-hour drive north of Chiang Mai to explore the magnificent Chiang Dao Cave, a limestone wonder full of hidden beauty.
  • Afterwards, visit Wat Tham Pha Bong, a renowned Buddhist temple known for its tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking views.
  • Next, you will explore a village of the fascinating Longneck tribe, descendants of Karen immigrants from Burma, who have preserved their unique cultural traditions.
  • In the afternoon you should visit the impressive Grand Blue Temple (Wat Ban Den), an architectural masterpiece known for its breathtaking buildings.
  • Our last stop is Sticky Waterfall, a unique natural wonder. Unlike other waterfalls, its distinctive rock formations allow for safe climbing and exploration. Treat yourself to a refreshing swim and experience unforgettable moments in this breathtaking natural paradise.
  • When you are ready, we will take you back to your hotel.

    • The fantastic elephant experience in the bush camp

  • At 9:00 AM you will leave your hotel in Chiang Mai and drive to the bush camp, where you will enjoy a delicious Thai lunch. After lunch, you will check in and prepare for the day's activities.
  • Visit their elephant park, where the elephants roam freely and are not chained. Feed Asia's largest land animal and interact with it – a truly unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
  • Explore the Karen village and experience the traditions of the mahouts by watching their families pound rice, weaving their own handmade clothes, tasting some of their dishes, and observing their daily lives.
  • Take part in a cooking class and learn, under the guidance of a professional chef, how to prepare curry chicken, extract coconut meat, discover spices and chop ingredients.
  • Enjoy a sundowner at one of the many viewpoints on the mountain peaks overlooking the majestic Ping River.
  • Enjoy a buffet dinner with freshly prepared Thai and Western dishes while taking in the magnificent mountain views.

    • Spend another day in close proximity to the elephants.

  • Enjoy a fresh breakfast buffet tailored to your wishes.
  • Take advantage of this unique opportunity to make paper from elephant dung and unleash your creativity by painting on this environmentally friendly elephant paper!
  • Try Kafee Boran and Kanom Krok – traditional coffee and a breakfast snack enjoyed by mahouts (elephant handlers) as they watch their elephants being cared for.
  • Watch the elephants during their morning bath and learn more about the work of the mahouts at the bush camp. You can also see the elephants rubbing themselves with mud – a common activity for cooling down, sun protection, insect repellent, and other reasons.
  • After an eventful morning, you return to your tent to check out.
  • After a final lunch together with a view of the mountains and the Ping River, we will take you back to your hotel in Chiang Mai at around 1:30 pm.

    • Chiang Mai Beyond the Temples: A Journey with Monks

  • Begin your day at Wat Chiang Man, Chiang Mai's oldest temple, and Wat Chedi Luang. Experience the peaceful atmosphere of the morning chants, participate in a traditional flower offering ceremony, and have the opportunity to talk to a monk about the role of Buddhism in everyday Thai life.
  • In the afternoon, you continue your spiritual journey through Chiang Mai, visiting the temples Wat Umong and Wat Pha Lat. At Wat Pha Lat, a resident monk will accompany you through the peaceful forest landscape, providing a personal insight into Buddhist life and practice.
  • Leave behind the usual temple visits and take time to unwind, reflect, and experience the tranquil atmosphere of Chiang Mai's forest temples in a more meaningful way.
  • Your day ends at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of the most revered temples in Northern Thailand. You will receive a traditional blessing and enjoy the panoramic view over Chiang Mai as the city lights begin to twinkle below.

    • Doi Inthanon National Park and a village of an ethnic minority

  • Escape the heat and chaos of Chiang Mai with a 1.5-hour drive to the refreshing climate of Doi Inthanon National Park, known for its numerous waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, remote villages and picturesque mountain farms.
  • Enjoy a leisurely nature walk along the Ang Ka Trail.
  • Visit the mountain village of Maeklang Luang Karen, which has retained its original charm with traditional stilt houses. Visitors can watch local women weaving. The journey also offers picturesque views of small terraced fields.
  • Explore a small Hmong market, admire the picturesque beauty of the Wachiratharn Waterfall, and marvel at the magnificent King and Queen Pagodas.
  • After an unforgettable day in the park, we will bring you back to Chiang Mai in the late afternoon.

    • Departure from Chiang Mai

  • We offer an airport transfer to ensure a warm farewell and a smooth transition from Thailand to your flight home.
  • Thank you for choosing Thailand Highlights! We hope to see you again soon!

    • Make it your very own unique piece

    This is where the magic happens. Enhance your offerings with experiences that will inspire you – be it a private cooking class, a jungle hike, or a special celebration.

    Your stay is part of history

    Your choice of accommodation shapes your trip. We carefully select hotels based on their unique character – from boutique hotels in the city to beachfront hotels.

    What is included in the delivery?

    No surprises, no hidden costs. Our prices are transparent and tailored to your individual plan. Here you can see clearly what is typically included.

    Price guide

    Their inclusions

  • Modern, spacious vehicle with air conditioning and driver
  • Dedicated, English-speaking local tour guide
  • All admission prices and listed activities
  • All nights in hand-picked hotels
  • Daily breakfast and set meals
  • ALL local taxes and fees (no hidden costs)

    • Good to know

  • Based on two people, traveling in the off-season.
  • The final price will be individually tailored to your group, travel dates and your wishes.
  • Want to combine different hotels? Absolutely. We'll put together a trip that fits your budget.
  • International flight (we are happy to help you with booking)
  • Most lunches and dinners (for more flexibility)
  • Visas and travel insurance
  • Discounts for children under 8 years old.
  • We accept USD, GBP, AUD, CAD, EUR and other currencies.

    • Let's plan your trip together.

    It's very simple. Here's how it works: 1. Share your ideas with us using the plan below. 2. Your travel consultant will contact you within 24 hours.

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