The Best Tours to Take in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Thailand’s charming northern city of Chiang Mai is a fascinating and vibrant place to explore. We’ve compiled a list of our favourite tours this city has to offer with plenty of active, cultural and delicious options to choose from!
Temple and City Tour
Explore the ancient and iconic sites of charming Chiang Mai on a temple and city tour. You’ll explore culture and history at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Chet Yod and Wat Suan Dok. You’ll also discover bustling Tapae Road and the ruins of the old city wall. Experience sights, smells and tastes as you explore local markets and sample different foods.
Swing like a Monkey
Swing like a monkey across tree canopies on a Flight of the Gibbon ziplining adventure. Not only will you see breathtaking jungle views and exotic wildlife, but you’ll also cure your adrenaline craving. Suitable for kids young and old, this tour is a great day out for the whole family. For those that would prefer to stay within Chiang Mai City, the company also offers Segway tours around the Old City.
Walk with Giants
Spending the day at Elephant Nature Park is an eye-opening experience. Not a single aspect of the visitor’s day is neglected, from the informative ride to the sanctuary all the way to the tasty lunch buffet. Elephant Nature Park is an ethical way to get to know and interact with elephants. Located outside of Chiang Mai City, the sanctuary was founded in the 1990s and has rescued dozens of elephants.
Elephant Nature Park, 209/2 Sridom Chai Road, Chiang Mai, Thailand, +66 053 818 754
Thai Khantoke Dinner and Cultural Performance
Although a rather touristy tour to partake in, the Thai Khantoke dinner and cultural performance makes for a great night out! Be enchanted as you spend the evening indulging in delicious Thai cuisine and are captivated by the traditional folk-dancing show. Local delicacies are served Khantoke-style on low tables, a communal family style of eating which is common in Lanna culture. You’ll gain insight into Lanna and hill tribe cultures and partake in the celebratory atmosphere.
Cook like a Local
Thai Farm Cooking School is one of Chiang Mai’s most renowned cooking schools and is led by passionate chef and farmer, Sawat. Visitors begin their class by taking a trip to the morning market, followed by a tour of the farm. Most of the herbs are picked directly from the farm. Participants then choose six dishes to make; vegetarian and vegan options are also available. Thai Farm Cooking School provides a fantastic introduction to Thai cooking. You’ll not only leave full, you’ll also leave with leftovers and a recipe book.
Beep! Beep!
If you’ve ever dreamt of driving a tuk-tuk, now’s your chance! You’ll explore fascinating rural villages and beautiful landscapes as you navigate your way around the Chiang Mai countryside in your very own tuk-tuk. On this action-packed tour, you’ll first learn how to drive a tuk-tuk, before you head out and off the beaten track. You’ll then float downstream on a bamboo raft before returning to Chiang Mai.
Hop in the Saddle
Explore the sights of Chiang Mai and the surrounding countryside on an exciting cycling tour. You’ll stop at iconic temples, pass through local villages and visit lush landscapes. This tour requires a fair level of fitness and is a fun way to discover Chiang Mai. Enjoy mingling with locals and sampling local specialities on this Spice Roads Tour.