Why should you go there and how do you do it right?

Climb up. That's my most important tip. Mae Sa is a chain of ten small waterfalls that cascade along a forested stream in Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, about 27 km northwest of Chiang Mai, at kilometer 7 of the Mae Rim to Samoeng road. The first cascade is just a few minutes from the parking area, and a trail of just over 2 km leads past the remaining waterfalls, climbing about 250 meters in elevation. Most visitors photograph the lower cascades and then move on, so the higher you climb, the fewer people you'll encounter.

Foreign adults pay 100 baht and children 50 baht for entry to the national park, while Thai visitors pay only 20 and 10 baht respectively. Parking fees at the upper levels range from 20 to 30 baht. The gate is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Those wishing to reach the upper levels should be through by 2:30 p.m. Wading and swimming are possible in the shallow pools at the lower level.

Take the water seriously. The current is strongest from July to October, and the water level rises rapidly upstream after rainfall. On August 15, 2026, a flash flood swept a group of visitors off the rocks in a restricted area. Rangers rescued them; they suffered only cuts and scrapes. The park closed the falls until conditions returned to normal. Check park advisories before your visit or call 053 210 244. Avoid restricted areas and leave the water immediately when instructed to do so by rangers. Sturdy footwear is preferable to flip-flops at all levels.

There is no direct public transport connection. Shared taxis (songthaews) run from Chang Phuak to Mae Rim. From there, you need a chartered vehicle or a Grab taxi for the final leg. Therefore, most travelers opt for a Grab taxi or a driver for the day. The journey takes 40 to 50 minutes each way. The same valley road continues to the elephant sanctuaries and resorts of the Mae Sa Valley.