Day 01: Arrive Bangkok
Welcome to Bangkok, Thailand. Once you’ve hit Khao San Road, you’re officially on holiday. There’s a welcome meeting at around 6 pm tonight. If you do arrive early, perhaps take a walk around Chinatown and explore the crowded streets, or head to the magnificent Grand Palace. Once you’ve had your important meeting, it’s definitely time for food. Bangkok is known for its street food, so be sure to check out some roadside stalls for a delicious coconut curry, tom yum goong or pad thai. Later on, get wild in Bangkok’s nightlife and head out – some good places are Bed Supper Club or Vertigo. Ask your guide for directions or grab your new travel mates and attempt to navigate the Skytrain.

Day 02: Bangkok / Ayutthaya / Chiang Mai – Overnight Train
Good morning! Time for an adventure. Take a train from Bangkok to Ayutthaya in the morning. Ayuthaya was the capital in the Kingdom of Siam, but now the ruins of this old city form the Historical Park: an archaeological site that contains palaces, Buddhist temples, monasteries and statues. Take local tuk-tuks on a visit to the Ayutthaya temple site, stopping by Wat Wanan Choeng (adorned with a huge 19-metre Buddha image), Wat Yai Chai Mong Koll (with its 62 metre Victory Pagoda), and the famous Wat Maha That (the Buddhist temple with a striking figure head swallowed by tree roots). You’ll have the chance to buy some of Ayuthaya’s famous Boat Noodles’ soup – trust us, they’re delicious. After your day exploring, hop on an overnight train up to Chiang Mai. You’ll have a few day-use rooms to share in Ayutthaya to freshen up before your train ride.
Accommodation: overnight sleeper train

Day 03: Chiang Mai
Arrive in Chiang Mai in the morning and transfer to your hostel. Even though check-in is at 2 pm, you’ll still be able to use the facilities, if you’d like. Chiang Mai is the perfect entrance to the Thai highlands, with misty mountains and colourful hillside villages awaiting you to explore. This will be your base for the next few days, as you’ll return here after your hillside trek. Today, spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing and exploring the city, then at night, why not get a group of you together and visit some of the trending bars in the happening Nimman area? You are on holiday, after all.

Day 04: Chiang Mai – Hilltribe Trek
This morning at around 8 am, leave Chiang Mai in a songthaew (approximately 2 hours). Head to Wachirathan Waterfall, then on the way up to the mountain, visit Hmong Hilltribe Market at Baan Khun Klang.

Afternoon start trekking at Doi Pha Tang, trekking for 2-3 hours along a relatively smooth trail, mostly walking downhill through the natural forest. On the trail, you will pass the Mai Phai waterfall which is a great spot to take a break. After a bit more of a hike, arrive at a Karen hilltribe village called Baan Tin Tok, where you’ll be staying for the night. Around 20 Christian families of Karen people live in this village.

Day 05: Hilltribe Trek – Chiang Mai
The best thing about being deep in the jungle in the morning is to enjoy the natural wake-up sounds of wildlife calls to stir your sleep. After a hearty breakfast (you’ll need it!), get back on board for today’s hike. It’s a pretty easy walk through local agricultural practice and farmland for a couple of hours, before arriving at Mae Ya Waterfalls, the biggest waterfall in Doi Inthanont National Park. Lunch will be provided today as well – yeah! Then, you will also have time to visit Wat Phradhatu Sri Chom Tong Voravihara, which is highly respected because of the sacred Buddha relic that is enshrined here. The Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong was constructed halfway through the 15th century located where the Buddha relic was found. The oldest structure is the chedi, which was built around 1450. The chedi is a large golden structure with a square base and a spire on top of that. Afterwards, continue back to Chiang Mai (approximately 2 hours), arriving around 4 pm and checking into your accommodation. The rest of the day is free to relax and explore the city.

Day 06: Chiang Mai
Today you’re free as a bird in charming Chiang Mai. There’s a heap of optional activities to check out today, and you’re free to choose. Maybe take an optional excursion to the temple at the top of Doi Suthep, which offers fantastic views over the city. Perhaps spoil yourself with a traditional Thai massage or try your hand at a local cooking class. It’s totally up to you. What is recommended is, at night, get the gang together and check out Chiang Mai’s famed night markets, where you’ll find everything from souvenirs to sweet treats on offer.

Day 07: Chiang Mai – Overnight sleeper train
With another day to explore Chiang Mai, you’re spoilt for options. Included for today is your chance to learn one of the world legend Martial arts, Muay Thai (Thai Boxing) this morning. Spend 2 hours exercising and learning the basics of Muay Thai with the pros, plus how to adapt yourselves to be the weapons and guard. Later in the evening, board an overnight train for Bangkok (approximately 13 hours). Soft sleeper class trains are used for the overnight journey, and they’ve got all you’ll need! The compartments are multi-share with air-conditioning and bunk beds that come with sheets and a pillow. Baggage travels in the carriage with you, and there’s a food and drink service available on board.
Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train

Day 08: Bangkok
Your train is scheduled to arrive into Bangkok in the early morning on Day 8 of the trip. The rest of the day is free to explore. As this is a combination trip, your group leader and the composition of your group may change at this location. There will be a group meeting to discuss the next stage of your itinerary. You’re welcome to attend, as this is a great chance to meet your new fellow travellers.

Day 09: Bangkok – Overnight Train
Today, explore some of Bangkok’s most famous sights. Take an included visit with your group to the temple complex of Wat Pho, which houses the famous 46-metre-long statue of the Reclining Buddha – he sure looks comfortable. And how will you get there? Well, in the best way possible: the humble tuk tuk. Pile in these traditional vehicles and take a ride from the hotel to Ratchawongse Pier, then take the Chao Phraya Express boar to Tha Tien Pier, pulling up right near the complex. Afterwards, the afternoon is free for you to discover more of the city, like the Grand Palace or Jim Thompson House (or just more food, up to you). In the evening, be ready to head south on an overnight train to Surat Thani.
Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train

Day 10: Ko Samui
Arrive into Surat Thani this morning, continuing on an approximately 4-hour journey by public bus and ferry to Ko Samui. The island of Ko Samui has been a tourist hotspot for decades, and with good reason. You can swim, snorkel or relax in the waterfalls at Na Muang. Take a trip with the group around the island, visiting the 15-metre-tall Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai). In the evening, perhaps feast on a delicious curry with the group and then join in the party atmosphere that is Koh Samui’s famous nightlife.
Accommodation: Resort

Day 11: Ko Samui
Spend a free day today however you’d like – swimming, lazing in the sun or more exploring. You may like to take an optional day tour to Ang Thong Marine National Park by either slow boat or speedboat. The park is an archipelago of over 40 islands in the Gulf of Thailand, featuring pristine beaches, jungle, mangroves and limestone mountains rising out of the sea. Take a swim at popular Ko Mae island and check out the saltwater lagoon of Thale Nai (Emerald Lake). For a quieter experience and some great snorkelling opportunities, head to the nearby islands of Ko Tao and Ko Nang Yuan. Ko Samui is also home to an elephant sanctuary, and you are able to come close to these gentle giants if you please. Watch them bathe, roam the fields and socialise with other elephants, all knowing that they are in a caring and peaceful environment.

Day 12: Khao Sok National Park
This morning, head from Ko Samui to Khao Sok National Park. Take a songtaew and catch an early ferry from Samui Pier for a 1.5-hour journey to reach Don Sak Pier. Then, jump in a private vehicle to Chiew Larn Lake (approximately 2 hours), and take a traditional longtail boat for a calm 1-hour journey to reach your rafthouse. Khao Sok National Park is the wettest spot in Thailand with some of the oldest jungle in the world. See loads of amazing limestone rock faces and, if you’re lucky, monkeys playing here and there. Once you’ve enjoyed lunch, take a jungle hike around the park, and depending on the season, you’ll see cascading waterfalls or head up high to a panoramic viewpoint. Later on, take an evening safari with your group, where you’ll head by longtail boat deep in the jungle, keeping an eye and ear out for animals. This is when they are most active. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional southern Thai meal at the rafthouse with your group.

Day 13: Khao Sok National Park – Ao Nang Beach
Lucky you with a morning in the oldest evergreen rainforest in the world. Your awesome jungle rafthouse sits right inside the park, so you’ll have time this morning to catch the mist drifting along the lake as you search for wildlife in the jungle on a longail boat. This place is paradise, especially if you love nature – if you’re super lucky there might be a glimpse of elephants, exotic Hornbills and water-loving Langur Monkeys deep inside the park. You’ll have some free time before an included lunch, before leaving the rafthouse and heading back to the pier on another longtail boat. Then, take a private vehicle to Ao Nang, on the Andaman Sea. Get ready, ‘cause you’ve arrived in a seaside paradise.

Day 14: Ao Nang Beach
Ao Nang beach is on the southern Thai coast and is bursting with white sandy beach and laidback vibes. One of the most popular places to go chill out is nearby Railay Beach, but this is an interesting one to get to. Even though it’s connected on the coast, the massive limestone karsts that surround the bay make it virtually impossible to access via land. That being said, take a longtail boat journey for a matter of minutes, and you’ll be washed up on the pristine shores. There’ll be some time to swim and relax on the sand. This place is thai-riffic, if you ask us.

Day 15: Ao Nang Beach
Today is as clear as the emerald waters surrounding Ao Nang. Enjoy a free day to relax on the beach or participate in a variety of optional activities. Perhaps unwind with a massage or cook up something delicious in a Thai cooking class. Take a tour out to some of Krabi’s naturally formed crystal pools and hot springs, swimming in the clear waters of the Emerald Lagoon while fish nibble at your toes. You might like to take a trip out to the quiet, pristine island of Ko Hong, where you can snorkel in the shallow reefs and kayak past cliffs to a hidden salt-water lagoon. The best thing is you can choose to do whatever you please, so soak it all up!

Day 16: Ao Nang Beach
You are free to depart the accommodation at any time.

Day 01: Arrive Koh Samui
Arrive to the stunning east coast of Thailand and Koh Samui. Known for its idyllic beaches, coconut trees and water sports, this area has something for everyone. The island itself is a mix of dense tropical jungle and long winding coastline. On arrival to the airport you are met and drive to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is free to explore at your new surroundings at your leisure.

Day 02: Anthong Marine Park Kayaking
Today set out for a full day kayaking trip to nearby Angthong Marine Park, a protected archipelago of about 42 tropical islands, most of which are undeveloped and uninhabited. Depart early from Nathon Pier for a two hour boat ride to the reserve, enjoying a light breakfast en route. Start your first kayak along the island of Koh Mae. Land your kayaks on the beach and take short climb through dense tropical forest to arrive to the viewpoint of Green Lagoon, also known as Emerald Lake. Return to the boat for lunch on board as you travel further north in the Marine Park. After lunch set out for your afternoon kayak exploring small caves, lakes and beach along Koh Thai Plao. Snorkeling is also possible in this area if you feel ready for a dip! Depart later this afternoon for the return to Koh Samui.

Day 03: Snorkel Koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan
Today you head by speedboat an hour and half to a diving and snorkeling paradise located 70 km north of Samui. These waters offer the best underwater visibility in the Gulf of Thailand and are home to various coral species and abundant tropical marine life. Stop first at the snorkel point in Koh Nang Yuan, a beautiful white sand beach bar that stretches across three small islands. Upon arrival hop in for a fantastic introduction to the underwater world. Next you visit Koh Tao and other snorkeling sites around its coastlines. Later this afternoon head back to Koh Samui and arrive early evening.

Day 04: Free Day Koh Samui
Enjoy a free day to do as you like on Koh Samui. You may opt to just relax and enjoy the beach today. For those desiring more activity, you may arrange for a variety of excursions including sunset cruise to Koh Phangan, another day in Anthong Marine Park, or hike to Namuang Waterfall. Or opt to tour some of the island attractions including the Big Buddha and Wat Plai Laem on the northern coast, hike to Namuang Waterfall, or visit the mummified remains of the monk Luang Pordaeng. The day is yours to do as you like.

Day 05: Return Home
Enjoy a leisurely morning before check out mid-day. Return to the airport for your journey onward.

Day 01: Arrive Bangkok
Arrive to Bangkok where you are met by your guide and drive to your hotel. Spend the evening relaxing after your journey.

Day 02: Explore Bangkok
Spend the full day exploring Bangkok today with your guide using exclusively public means of transportation. Take a boat to a terminal station on the banks of Chao Phraya River and then continue to Tha Thien pier to visit Wat Pho in time to witness the morning chanting of the monks. Explore the temple, see the Reclining Buddha, and if you like stop for an optional Thai foot massage. Continue to the Grand Palace by foot, Thailand’s most important landmark. This was the official residence of the Kings of Siam (and later Thailand) from 1782 until 1925 and is still used for official state events. Explore the grandeur and majesty of the building and its throne halls this afternoon. See also the Emerald Buddha, the most revered Buddha image in all of Thailand, which according to legend was first created in 43 BC in India.

This afternoon you will learn about Muay Thai from the home gym of Thailand’s most famous fighter, Buakaw. The multi-times world champion Muay Thai and K1 fighter is the poster child of the gym, but there are many other very high level athletes training at the gym and as such it attracts people who want intense Muay Thai camps to prepare for a real match. The trainers here have had illustrious careers so you know the training is high level.

Day 03: Countryside Cycle
This morning drive out of the city into the countryside for a day on bikes. Explore the Thailand of old in a land of gentle river boats, rice fields and tropical landscapes. See the temple of Phurt Udom Pol, Kamalulislam mosque, and the market town of Nong Chok. Visit a local women’s cooperative, fish farms, working rice mills, traditional Thai wooden houses and an old medicine shop. Stop for lunch before continuing on for a close-up view of Thai village life this afternoon before returning to Bangkok for a leisurely evening.

Day 04: Fly Chiang Mai
Take a flight out of Bangkok today north to Chiang Mai. On arrival check into your hotel and freshen up before lunch.

This afternoon choose between two options. In the first, you take a local songthaew to explore Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the most sacred temple in Northern Thailand located on the mountain of Doi Suthep. Learn about the story of the temple and the white elephant and walk around the impressive grounds. Next trek one hour to a Hmong village where 800 inhabitants still wear their traditional tribe clothes and practice a culture that dates back 500 years. Trek back and return to the city. The second option is to spend the afternoon exploring temples around Chiang Mai by Segway. After a brief introduction, set out to visit some of the following: Wat Phra Singh, Wat Pan Tao, Wat Chedi Luang, Tapae Gate, Wat Chiang Man, and Three Kings Gate.

This evening get a taste of the Chiang Mai nightlife. First join monks in a nightly chanting at a local temple. Here you may light some incense or burn a candle to participate as well. Next enjoy dinner at 137 Pillars colonial house. After dinner, drive to the lively Waroros market, the hub of local life bursting with fresh flowers and local street food stalls. Sample some local Thai sweets before returning to your hotel for the evening.

Day 05: Chiang Mai – Mae Ngat Lake
Get active today for an exciting day of kayaking and cycling around the spectacular Sri Lanna National Park, located only an hour drive from Chiang Mai. First cycle 20 km along beautiful rural roads set against the backdrop of bamboo groves, fruit orchards and rolling rice fields. Next paddle kayaks out on Mae Ngat Lake Reservoir. Enjoy lunch at an exotic bamboo floating raft house on the lake and continue exploring the lake by kayak. Swim or find a spot to sunbathe as you relax this afternoon. Pack up the bikes and transfer to your home for the evening, Mountain Float Raft House. 

Day 06: Chiang Mai – Hill Tribes in North Thailand
In the morning you will be picked up after breakfast at your hotel and taken to the Lisu Lodge, an hour’s drive away.
Upon arrival at the lodge, enjoy a traditional welcome drink. Then, drive by local open-air truck to the area near Pha Mieng. Start walking along the jungle trails to the remote village of Hmong Pha Mieng. Meet the inhabitants of this small hill tribe village in the jungle, learning about their way of life. After a picnic lunch in the forest, walk to the top of the mountain, about an hour and a half to where the Red Lahu Village of Pha Daeng is located. Continue walking along a mountain ridge to the Lahu village of Kup Kap about another hour, from which you have a spectacular view overlooking the Mae Taeng district and Chiang Mai town glittering at night in the distance. Beyond the mountain peaks to the west lies Myanmar (Burma).

Overnight at Lahu Outpost, modeled on a typical Lahu house furnished with simple amenities. 

Day 07: Lahu Outpost – Lisu Lodge
After an early breakfast, enjoy a one and a half hour walk down a steep jungle path to see the Huay Sadharn Waterfall. Relax at the waterfall, then continue another 30 – 45 minutes hike to reach a scenic riverbank where you’ll enjoy a delicious picnic lunch. After lunch, raft down the river for about 45 minutes. From there you return to Lisu Lodge, where a welcome drink will be served before you check into your room.

Afterwards you will receive a briefing so you can select your activity for the following morning. Guided by a Lisu villager, walk from Ton Lung temple to visit the herbal garden. Then continue through the village with a stop for a cup of tea at the village shaman’s house. Chat with the Lisu shaman and learn about his life, beliefs, curing rites and Lisu traditions.

Finally, visit the ‘museum’ created by the villagers. Here are all kinds of tools and household utensils of Akha- and Lisu tribes exhibited.

Enjoy Lisu music and folk dances before turning in for the evening at Lisu Lodge.

Day 08: Lisu Lodge – Kanta Elephant Sanctuary
Enjoy breakfast at the lodge, then prepare for your choice of activities:  You may take a guided bike tour around the Lisu Lodge area or just relax and have a nice steam bath and massage. Or choose to go for an ox-cart ride through farmlands and orchards to the village of Baan Pang Mai Daeng – about an hour’s journey ending up back at Lisu Lodge. You are also welcome to go cycling by yourself with a road book of recommended itineraries.
Enjoy a delicious Thai lunch, then prepare for an afternoon journey to Kanta Elephant Sanctuary. 

Arrive at Kanta Elephant Sanctuary. Walk through and learn about the elephants, then change into traditional clothing and prepare fruits for our elephants. Meet the elephants and take the opportunity to feed, interact, and play with them in a natural environment. Get muddy as you learn about their behavior and history, and take the chance to take photos with the elephants before walking them to the river to bathe them.

Get some tea, coffee and fresh local fruit, then say goodbye to the elephants.  Leave Kanta Elephant Sanctuary and drive approximately 50 minutes back to Chiang Mai, where you will be dropped off at your hotel or accommodation.

****Please Note: At the Sanctuary, we will allow you to spend as much time as possible with the elephants. Therefore, there is no formal schedule and aside from pick-up times, the times shown here are approximations.

Day 09: Chiang Mai
This morning you have the option to participate in a group cooking class at Baan Thai Cookery School. Learn how to make Thai food in a traditional setting. Teachers help you in this participatory group class that includes a market tour. Or you may opt to enjoy the morning at leisure in Chiang Mai.

Enjoy your final evening in Chiang Mai with a traditional Khantoke Dinner. Your meal is served on special, low circular tables called toke. Enjoy delicious northern Thai dishes accompanied by Thai folk dance.

Day 10: Return Bangkok
Return to Chiang Mai for your flight back to Bangkok. From here connect with your international flight home

Day 01: Arrive Bangkok
Upon arrival to Bangkok International Airport, meet your guide and driver for a private transfer to your hotel.

Day 02: Bangkok
This morning pick you up from your hotel for an unusual walking tour in the old part of the buzzing capital. The tour starts with a fun transfer by local tuk-tuk to the city’s Giant Swing. We then go to Lak Muang, Bangkok’s City Pillar Shrine, as Thai cities always house a pillar to host the guardian spirit or deity of the city. Next is Saranrom Park, a botanic garden and public park, and a walk along Trok Wisutbeside a khlong to end up at Wat Suthat Thepwararam. Walk from Dinso Road through several alleys to Tanao Road, cross Ratchadamnoen Klang and head towards a decades old local restaurant, which offers great food and is virtually unknown by tourists.

Continue to Wat Po, one of Bangkok’s oldest and largest temples. Next visit the Grand Palace Complex, which includes the Temple of The Emerald Buddha – unquestionably a “must” for every visitor to Bangkok. The Grand Palace – built in traditional Thai architecture mixed with European designs – was once the official home of the Kings of Siam. The tour ends here. You have the opportunity to explore the riverside on own, jump on a local ferry to cruise down the Chao Phraya River or simply head back (on your own) to your hotel. Afternoon is at your leisure. 

Day 03: Chinatown Foodie Tour
Free day at leisure.

In the early evening, enjoy a mouth watering exploration of Bangkok’s 200-year-old Chinatown district by visiting various tasty eateries. These range from sit-on-the-pavement vendors to charming restaurants. Walk through some of Chinatown’s most characteristic alleys, and then enjoy the magnificent views of the river from a local rooftop bar. Here, you’ll be given a short briefing by your guide while enjoying a drink and watching the sunset. Your unique tour starts with sampling all kinds of dishes such as dim sum, dumplings, fresh seafood, local desserts and more! Throughout the evening your knowledgeable guide will explain the background of all the different foods and drinks you are tasting. At the end of the night, you can choose to head back to your hotel, explore a bit more of this fascinating area, or watch the hustle and bustle of Chinatown from a lovely open air bar.  Enjoy your final night in Bangkok.

Day 04: Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Free time until your transfer to the airport to catch your flight to Chiang Mai, the cultural capital of Northern Thailand. On arrival to Chiang Mai, meet your driver for a private transfer to your hotel. Settle into your hotel and relax on your own.

Day 05: Chiang Mai
Get an early start at the Chiang Mai Gate Market, a traditional market where you will find fresh vegetables, fruit, fruit-shakes, spices, cooked chicken, fish, sweets, coffee and other food products. Your guide will let you sample some typical Thai snacks! Witness the monks making their daily alms rounds. Afterwards return to your hotel for breakfast.

Following breakfast we take a “songtaew” to the larger, riverfront Worarot Market. Be ready for colorful flowers, unfamiliar smells and friendly crowds. Textiles, hill tribe clothes, silks, hats and beads can be found as well. From the market we go to Thapae Gate, one of the four original city gates, where we will continue by rickshaw! Visit multiple temples along the way, and have the opportunity to talk with an English-speaking monk. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional Thai foot massage! Enjoy a local lunch of“Khao Soi” – the world famous North Thailand noodle soup.

Drive along a scenic, winding mountain road to the impressive 300-step naga-guarded stairway of Doi Suthep. The rewards justify the climb with one of the most beautiful temples in Thailand on display, not to mention fantastic panoramic views of the city and the opportunity to listen to hypnotic evening chanting by resident Buddhist monks. Our last stop of the day is to head back into the center of town and barter at the bustling night markets! 

Day 06: Day at Wiang Kum Kam
This morning you will visit the ancient city of Wiang Kum Kam. It is believed to be the earliest historical settlement in the Chiang Mai area established by Mon settlers. Archaeological remains excavated at the site include stone tablets with Mon inscriptions, pottery, earthenware, and Buddhist sculptures all dating back to the 8th century Haripunchai era. We will explore Wiang Kum Kam in the old style by horse cart – the perfect way to visit the sites. We will enjoy a special picnic lunch amongst the ruins in one of the forgotten corners of Wiang Kum Kam. Following this feast, it’s time to say goodbye to Wiang Kum Kam and return to the hotel.

Day 07: Chiang Mai to Koh Yao Noi
Free time until your transfer to the airport for your flight to Phuket. Upon arrival, meet our representative for a private transfer to the pier. There you will hop on a speedboat (join-in) to reach Koh Yao Noi. The island still remains a quiet refuge that feels far removed from the crowds of Phuket. Furthermore, it gained worldwide attention in 2002 after receiving the World Legacy Award for Destination Stewardship from Conservation International and National Geographic Traveler magazine for the eco-friendly programs offered to visitors. Check-in on arrival with the rest of the day at your leisure.

Day 08: Koh Yao Noi
Free day at leisure on the beach!  ​

Day 09: Cooking with Mina
This morning, prepare yourself for a great cooking experience! Khun Mina inhabits a lovely traditional Thai house in a quiet neighborhood just outside the market. Mina is an expert cook and a gracious hostess. She’ll show you how to make some classic Thai dishes, such as a variety of curries, stir fried dishes and a local spicy salad. If you prefer relaxing, feel free to do so in her large garden while taking in amazing views of the surrounding ocean and rice fields! Enjoy the delicious Thai lunch that you cooked at Mina’s traditional Thai house!

Day 10: Koh Yao Noi
Free days on the beach!  

Day 11: Koh Yao Noi
Free days on the beach!  

Day 12: Koh Yao Noi to Phuket
Free time until your transfer to the pier to board the speedboat back to the mainland. Upon arrival, your driver will take you to the Phuket airport for your departing flight.

Day 01: Bangkok
Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand.

Thailand’s bustling capital is famous for its tuk tuks, khlong boats and street vendors serving up delicious Thai food. Your adventure begins with an important welcome meeting. Bangkok has so much to offer those who have time to explore, so perhaps arrive a day or so early and take a riverboat to Chinatown and explore the crowded streets, wander down the tourist mecca of Khao San Road, or indulge in some Thai massage.

Day 02: Kanchanaburi
Begin the day with a river cruise of about an hour or so down the Chao Phraya River to explore the famous ‘khlongs’ (canals). Life along these canals seems a world away from the chaotic streets of the capital. Pay a visit to the magnificent Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The sprawling royal complex houses numerous ornate structures that highlight the grand architectural traditions of Thailand. Travel south by private minibus to Kanchanaburi (approximately 2.5 hours). Located where the confluence of the Khwae Noi and Khwae Yai rivers, Kanchanaburi is home to the infamous ‘Bridge on the River Kwai’.

Day 03: Kanchanaburi
This morning, make tracks for the Erawan Waterfalls. These terraced falls, named after the three-headed white elephant of Hindu mythology, cascade into a series of emerald green pools, and are a great place to walk around and discover the natural beauty in arguably the most famous national park in Kanchanaburi Province of Thailand. Enjoy lunch at the park, and then drive for an hour or so to the Hellfire Pass Memorial, built to honour the Allied Prisoners Of War (POWs) and Asian conscripts who died while constructing some of the most difficult stretches of the Thai-Burma Death Railway. You can head out to a teak observation deck and look across to Myanmar just kilometres away. You’ll also see the eponymous pass, cut through rock 18 metres deep, that got its name from the hellish fires used to light the work at night. Boarding at Nam Tok station, the main terminal of the Death Railway, take a ride along the historic tracks along the Kwai Noi River and travel over the original wooden viaduct (the Bridge on the River Kwai) constructed by the allied POWs. Pass through magnificent scenery and spend a moment reflecting on those who were forced to give their lives in the process of bending this environment to man’s will. Tonight, you can explore the rows of street vendors in town and perhaps grab a drink overlooking the River Kwai.

Day 04: Ayuthaya
Head away from Kanchanaburi to Ayuthaya in a private minivan this morning (approximately 4 hours). You will most likely arrive in Ayuthaya just in time for lunch. In the afternoon, head with your group leader to the Historical Park, which is rich in ancient temples, historical ruins and Buddha statues. You will visit the site, seeing temples including Wat Yai Chai Mongkol, Wat Maha That and Wat Panun Choeng. Between the 14th and 18th centuries, Ayuthaya was considered the second capital of the Siamese Kingdom and grew to be one of the largest cosmopolitan urban centres in the world, and you’ll see its historic grandeur on full display today.

Day 05: Sukhothai
Buckle up for a bit of travelling today. Take a traditional songthaew from your accommodation to the train station, then board a day train to Phitsanuloke (approximately 5 hours). From there, take a 1.5-hour minivan to Sukhothai, the historic capital of Siam, stopping off at Wat Yai Phitsanuloke along the way. Be sure to have your music, podcasts or movies downloaded or a good book handy, as you’ll be sweeping through the countryside on a relaxing travel day. Once arrived at your resort, spend some time in the open air and perhaps have a swim in the onsite pool!

Day 06: Sukhothai
Located on a fertile plain, Sukhothai was established in the 13th century as one of the first ancient capitals of Siam, and the name means the ‘Dawn of Happiness’. It’s now famous for its World Heritage-listed Historic Park that celebrates the Golden Age of Thai civilisation. Head out to the historical ruins of Old Sukhothai, set amid beautiful lakes and gardens. The religious art and architecture of the Sukhothai era are considered to be the most classic of Thai styles, and the Sukhothai Historical Park contains the remains of 21 historic sites, with striking Buddha images and four large ponds often filled with stunning lotus flowers in full bloom. Upon arrival at the park, hire bicycles and enjoy a few leisurely hours feeling the breeze in your hair and learning about the history of this fascinating place. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the end of your ride. Have some free time this afternoon before heading to a local house for a Thai-style cooking class. You’ll learn some traditional food from the Sukhothai region such as chilli pastes and fragrant curries, spicy soups, steamed fish cake and Thai custard. Your host will help you prepare these dishes and will assist you in making a delicious spread to share at the end.

Day 07: Hmong Hilltribe Lodge
Take a minivan on a drive north to the Hmong Hilltribe Lodge in picturesque hilly countryside (approximately 4.5 hours). Set in a peaceful valley of a scenic mountain range and surrounded by stunning natural landscapes of jungle and mountains, the Hmong lodge offers a unique and tranquil experience. It’s a great escape from the hustle and bustle of busy tourist spots. The rooms are simple and rustic, fitting perfectly with the natural environment. Be sure to pack a warm jumper as the weather will be mild and cool year-round due to the lofty mountain location. The Hmong are an ethnic minority in Thailand who originated in the south of China. Today they comprise the second largest hilltribe group in Thailand. After a barbecue dinner in the lodge’s open-air dining area, the day concludes with a cultural performance by the Hmong people. You’ll gain an insight into the traditional lifestyle of the tribe, with a wedding ceremony enactment, shamanic ritual and makong (cotton ball) throwing.

Day 08: Chiang Mai
Transfer by private vehicle to Chiang Mai (approximately 1.5 hours). The most vibrant city in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai has many famous temples and an interesting old city area. Renowned for dazzling beauty and extremely welcoming locals, the ‘Rose of the North’ will leave you spellbound. Chances are, you won’t want to leave. In the late afternoon, embark on a scenic, winding drive up a mountain (approximately 45 minutes) to one of the country’s most stunning temple complexes, Doi Suthep. A 300-step naga-guarded stairway leads you to the temples, and the climb is well worth the effort. The hypnotic atmosphere of chanting Buddhist monks and sweeping views of the city make this a memorable experience. Your leader can help you to arrange optional activities for your free time today – you can get active with a bicycle tour to discover the city and surrounding countryside from a different perspective, indulge in a Thai massage or a spa treatment, or just read a book by the pool.

Day 09: Chiang Mai
Today, you’ll have a pretty special time visiting the ChangChill elephant experience. Take a 1.5-hour drive out of Chiang Mai to ChangChill, where you’ll begin to learn how this organisation supports the protection, conservation and lifestyle of free roaming elephants in the region. You’ll observe the daily patterns of these jungle giants from a safe distance, seeing how they graze and socialise with their other friends. The expert local guides will be able to give you a ‘live lecture’ on the elephants themselves, its sustainable tourism practices and conservation efforts in the area. Enjoy some refreshments nearby the elephant’s mud pit but be careful not to get a spray! Be treated to some lunch in a riverside sala (pavilion) alongside your giant friends, who will be enjoying a meal too. On your way back to Chiang Mai, stop by Kaomai Estate 1955 café for a coffee – this eclectic tobacco factory-turned-café hasn’t just got a Cultural Heritage Conservation for New Design accreditation from UNESCO for nothing! At night, get your travel crew together for a group dinner in town and celebrate today’s unforgettable experience.

Day 10: Chiang Mai
Transfer to airport for flight back to home.