Chiang Mai · OBSERVATION DECKS
The 7 best viewpoints you can book today, with what each costs, how long it runs and who it suits. Number one is first for a reason — start there.
2 days in Chiang Mai: trek to Tard Mok waterfall, tube the Mae Taeng River, swim-slide at Saa Gee, ethical elephant viewing.
“Awesome tour with Bang! He’s a great tour guide and the activities were fun. Dorm rooms were very comfortable and clean too.”
Ethical elephant observation in Thung Luang, plus a waterfall swim and a Thai souvenir craft, with pickup and lunch included.
“So 45 minutes into the excursion the driver being on his phone the entire and talking loudly is not only annoying but highly distracting from trying to appreciate the views on the ride. Why doesn’t the tour company better train the drivers about the guests’ total experience? Hoping it improves.”
Visit Joy Elephant Sanctuary in Chiang Mai, dress in Karen style, then raft the Wang River on bamboo. Lunch and A/C included.
“My whole day at Joy Elephant Sanctuary was amazing. Jade and the staff were so kind and helpful. The elephants are well cared for and respected. We got to prepare food for them and walk through the forest to see them doing their thing. The guide gave us lots of information about the elephants. We also relaxed by a waterfall with some hot tea. Lunch was Veg Pad Thai, salad, and some fruit. Before we left, they taught us how to make a Thai herb inhaler as a souvenir. Then we went bamboo rafting, which was beautiful. This place really respects the elephants and doesn't make them do tricks, entertain…”
Chiang Mai Inthanon day with Joy Elephant Sanctuary observation, Karen village, waterfall hike, Twin Royal Stupas, and cool mountain air.
“Unforgettable elephant experience on a preserve that doesn't exploit the animals. There were a few little bonuses like the post hike tea.”
Float the Mae Taeng River, trek to Tard Mok waterfall, slide at Saa Gee Falls, and observe elephants ethically in Chiang Mai.
“Amazing day trip, must do in Chiang Mai. Pick up was on time, nice car + driver. The hike through the jungle, not difficult and we had great pictures at the waterfall - perfect start to the day. The lunch and base camp were lovely, nice to relax before the tubing. A larger group joined us and we went to the river. The tubing was really good - nice and relaxing as we floated past lots of elephants. The highlight was the feeding, we had an elephant between 4 of us and it was such a memorable and special experience. We were concerned about choosing an ethical way to see…”
Big Boy Elephant Sanctuary near Doi Inthanon in Chiang Mai: ethical elephant observation, vitamin feeding, and a Pad Thai cooking lunch.
“Mr. Su war ein fantastischer Guide, der uns so einiges erzählen konnte und das mit guten Humor. Man merkt das die Elefanten den Menschen vor Ort am Herzen liegen. Es war ein sehr schöner Ausflug der sich für jeden dem das Wohl der Elefanten wichtig ist lohnt.”
Market-led Thai cooking plus responsible elephant observation in Chiang Mai, with a full day schedule, meals, and a Karen-themed experience.
“We had such a fun time! The cooking class was great, Aim made the class so much fun and also so informative. We made 6 dishes, and some of the best food we’ve eaten in our 3 week trip in Thailand. After morning of cooking we headRead more”
Every kind of day out around the city, and the best of each.
