Travel blogger Skye Gilkeson describes herself as a journalist, fitness trainer, healthy food chef, nutrition expert, and adventurous traveler. She recently explored the treetops of Chiang Mai on a Flying Gibbon.

Chiang Mai in northern Thailand has long been a mecca for tourists, hikers, yogis, and all those seeking healing. The ancient city is rich in history, culture, and charm; a place where one can easily lose oneself for days.

But if you want to leave the city walls and experience a different perspective than the well-trodden paths of Thailand's mountains, why not view the city from the treetops?

While I'm not exactly an adrenaline junkie, I do enjoy pushing my physical and mental limits. So when I read about the Chiang Mai Zipline, the longest zipline in Asia that takes you above the rainforest canopy, I simply had to accept the challenge.

Flight of the Gibbon offers half-day tours from Chiang Mai. We were picked up from our hotel around 6:30 am. Our group was small – just the two of us, a couple from China, and a solo traveler from Australia. During the drive, a safety video was shown, which gave us a better idea of ​​the upcoming zipline route. The 55-minute drive up into the mountains overlooking the city was a wonderful start to the day. We were able to admire the mountains for the first time at dawn.

The van then took us to base camp. From the very beginning, it was clear to us that this was a professional company, which is essential when you entrust your life to a tour operator!

Equipped with a fresh cup of espresso, harness, and helmet, we were ready for the two-hour course. Back in the van, a short five-minute drive brought us to the first platform. Chai and Aof were our guides for the day. Luckily, they spoke fluent English (as well as Thai and Chinese) and were great to be around. They showed us the ropes (or rather, the cables), explained the rules, and made us feel safe.

On the canopy tour, a Sky Ranger always leads the group. He glides off first, followed by each group member in turn, with the second Sky Ranger bringing up the rear. The first descent was truly exhilarating. It's short and fast, a great warm-up for the rest of the course. Ziplining isn't like skydiving, where you launch yourself into the open sky. You simply sit down and let your own weight carry you along the cable. Legs tucked in increase speed, while legs hanging down provide some resistance and slow you down slightly. The Sky Ranger at the next platform helps you stop, so you can simply sit back and enjoy the breathtaking scenery, the centuries-old trees at your feet, and the distant sounds of gibbons and cicadas.

Flight of the Gibbon offers something unique in the area: Asia's longest zip line. The 800-meter-long course is reached after just a few zip lines. But shortly before it begins, a special highlight awaits you: an encounter with wild gibbons.

Right next to the zipline platform is a tree with a feeding station. We watched a beautiful white-handed gibbon feasting on the fresh fruit and vegetables. Others swung through the treetops, and one white gibbon sat quietly, watching us as we watched it. Protecting these primates is a key part of the tour operator's work. As we hike from one station to the next, they explain the flora and fauna we encounter and the importance of respecting these magnificent apes.

In total, you can expect 18 zip lines. You'll also carefully cross three suspension bridges, climb stairs clinging to tall trees, drop into a treehouse – for your own Robinson Crusoe moment – ​​and rappel down two very high tree trunks – one 14 meters long, the other 45 meters deep – so that after your last zip line you'll have solid ground under your feet again.

The treetop adventure was unlike anything I had ever experienced before. It was a truly unique challenge and an absolute must for anyone with even a hint of adventure.

But the day wasn't over yet. Back at base camp, we were treated to a traditional Thai meal. Red rice with steamed, locally grown vegetables, chicken curry, and fresh watermelon and pineapple chunks provided the perfect sustenance before the hike. We enjoyed the early lunch accompanied by traditional acoustic music.

Next on the agenda is a hike to the seven tiers of Mae Kampong Waterfalls! You'll hop back into the van for a short drive up the road. From there, the climb to the falls begins. If the hundreds of (very steep) steps are too strenuous for you, you can sit by the lower pool and watch the waterfall from below. When we passed, a young girl was bathing, while her mother and another local woman enjoyed the shade of the overhanging branches. Those who fancy a bit of exercise can easily reach the top in about 15 minutes. There, a peaceful setting and a comfortable seat made from a tree trunk await you for a short break before heading back down.

Here are a few reasons why I particularly enjoyed the "Flight of the Gibbon" experience:

  • The course felt safe. The equipment looked new and was in perfect working order. The Sky Rangers knew exactly what they were doing, and it was second nature for them to ensure that each of us was securely attached to the safety lines at all times.
  • They tailored it to each of us individually. For those who were a bit more adventurous, they showed a few tricks (but I won't reveal any secrets here).
  • The Sky Rangers created a great atmosphere because they were having fun themselves. There's nothing worse than a guide who doesn't enjoy their job.
  • It was a wonderful experience with my husband. We've been doing a lot of fun and active things together lately, and that's so important for nurturing shared interests and strengthening our relationship. I've talked about the importance of sporty dates here before.
  • It was challenging, but not frightening. Standing on a wooden platform several meters high certainly gets your heart racing. But jumping off that platform and flying through the air using your own body power is an incredibly exhilarating experience.

    • Learn more about Skye's travels here: thefittraveller.com.au