Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
For motorcyclists and long-distance cyclists, the Mae Sa-Samoeng loop is the
closest and most stunning escape into the mountains.
Chiang Mai is also one of Thailand's most famous destinations for elephant 'en-
counters.'
Rock climbers head to Crazy Horse Buttress, an impressive set of limestone cliffs
located behind Tham Meuang On, near Sankamphaeng, 45km east of Chiang Mai.
The scenery isn't as stunning as Krabi's seaside cliffs, but the ascents reward with
pastoral views.
White-water rafting is also possible. The Taeng River is north of Chiang Mai and
carves a path through the Doi Chiang Dao National Park and the Huai Nam Dang
National Park. The river is a wild and frothy white-water ride for nine months of the
year (roughly from July to March), a surprisingly long season in this monsoonal cli-
mate. When choosing a white-water outfitter, ask about their safety standards and
training.
Trekking
Most companies operating out of Chiang Mai offer the same type of tour: a one-hour mini-
bus ride to Mae Taeng or Mae Wang (depending on the duration of the trip), a brief hike to
an elephant camp, a one-hour elephant ride to a waterfall, another hour rafting down a
river and an overnight in or near a hill-tribe village.
Chiang Mai is not the only base for hill-tribe treks but it is the most accessible. Most
guest houses in Chiang Mai act as booking agents in exchange for a commission, which
in turn subsidises the cheap room rates. One-day treks usually cost around 1000B, while
multiday treks (three days and two nights) cost 1500B. Both prices include transport,
guide and lunch; in the case of overnight trips, the price also includes lodging (prices will
be a bit more in high season). More expensive treks that offer a better experience may be
available; ask around.
FLIGHT OF THE GIBBON
( 08 9970 5511;
www.treetopasia.com
; Mae Kampong; 3hr tour 3000B)
This
adventure outfit in Chiang Mai operates a zipline through the forest canopy some
1300m above sea level. Nearly 2km of wire with 18 staging platforms follow the
ridgeline and mimic the branch-to-branch route that a gibbon might take down the
mountain.
Ziplining
