Hill Tribe & Nature Trek
Hill tribe trekking is older than almost anything else on Chiang Mai's tour list, and for a long time it was also the most exploitative: villages turned into photo stops, guests pressured into buying souvenirs nobody wanted. This version pays the same Karen and Lahu communities directly through guiding fees instead, with nothing for sale and nobody asking you to buy it.
About this tour
Hill tribe trekking around Chiang Mai has a long history, not all of it fair to the communities involved. This trek pays Karen and Lahu villages directly through guiding fees, with a full day of jungle trails, bamboo rafting and a waterfall stop — and nothing scheduled for sale along the way.
Tour Highlights
- Walk jungle trails through Karen or Lahu village land, between rice terraces and bamboo groves far from the standard trekking routes
- Bamboo raft down a quiet river, poled by a local guide
- A waterfall stop to cool off partway through the trek
- Guiding fees paid directly into the local village economy, with no scheduled souvenir stops
Itinerary
Tour runs approx. 8hHotel Pickup
An early start for the drive out to the trailhead.
Village Walk
Arrive near Chiang Dao or the Mae Wang valley and begin walking through Karen or Lahu village land.
Jungle Trail
Forest trails between rice terraces and bamboo groves, at a pace that suits the group.
Lunch & Waterfall Stop
A local lunch near a waterfall, with time to cool off in the water if you want to.
Bamboo Rafting
A stretch of river covered by bamboo raft, poled by a local guide.
Hotel Drop-off
The drive back into Chiang Mai.
Hotel Pickup
Complimentary Hotel Pickup
Any hotel in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Included
- Private hotel pickup and drop-off (Chiang Mai)
- Expert local English-speaking guide
- All private transport to and from the trailhead
- Bamboo rafting
- Lunch
- Bottled water
Excluded
- Gratuities (optional)
- Two-day, one-night homestay upgrade (available on request, priced separately)
- Personal purchases
What to Bring
- Comfortable closed-toe shoes with good grip
- A change of clothes, the rafting and waterfall stop both get you wet
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen & sunglasses
Hi, I'm Monika!
TAT Certified Guide · Thai Native & Food Lover
“Born in Chiang Mai and based in Bangkok, I started 'Hi Monika' to show travellers the authentic side of my country — the places my friends and family actually hang out. I love sharing our food, our culture, and the hidden stories of our neighbourhoods.”
Guest Reviews
“Monika was incredible! We saw parts of Chiang Mai we never would have found on our own. The street food was amazing and we felt completely safe the entire time.”
“Perfectly organised and so much more personal than a group tour. Monika knew exactly when to go to each spot to avoid the crowds.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Will we have the tour to ourselves?
Can I change the date after booking?
What happens if it rains?
Do I need to pay anything on the day?
Note: many local vendors and restaurants do not accept credit cards — cash is always the safest option.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Know before you go
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 12 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 12 hours before the tour start time are non-refundable.
for your whole group!
only ~$120/person
$150 first person · $90 each additional
Private Tour · Air-conditioned Transport · Hotel Pickup
Supports Bamboo School
Questions? WhatsApp Monika
$240
TOTAL
for your whole group!
only ~$120/person
$150 first person · $90 each additional
Private Tour · Air-conditioned Transport · Hotel Pickup
Supports Bamboo School
Questions? WhatsApp Monika
Terms & Policies
CANCELLATION
- 12h+Full refund*
- Under 12hNo refund · Credit on request
- No-showNo refund
*Refunds do not include payment processing fees.
RESCHEDULING
- More than 12hFree (subject to availability)
- Under 12hNot available
One free reschedule per booking. Additional reschedules are subject to a THB 1,500 fee.
CHILDREN
- Age 0–4Free
- Age 5+Counts as full guest
GOOD TO KNOW
- •Wheelchair access not guaranteed on all tours
- •Vegan options may not always be available
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