Day 1: Chiang Mai

On arrival transfer to a hotel in the city center and rest of the day at leisure.....or, if time allows, opportunity to visit some of the famous handicraft centers (just visit the ones in which you are interested).

Day 2: Chiang Mai - Pai

Start in the morning with a sightseeing tour of the northern capital, which includes two of its most famous temples and the old city. Then leave Chiang Mai to the north, have a short stop at an orchid farm and visit a local market in the countryside. Tour goes on along beautiful and mountainous landscapes to Pai. On the way explore some hot springs. Overnight at the resort just outside Pai.

Day 3: Pai - Mae Hong Sorn

In the morning opportunity to visit the countryside school just opposite the resort. Leave Pai and travel along wonderful mountain scenery for a stop at a Lisu hill tribe village. Then passing the village of Soppong and visit the spectacular Thum Lod cave. Continue on winding roads through the wilderness towards Mae Hong Sorn. On the way passing various Lahu hill tribe villages. Just before Mae Hong Sorn a side trip brings you to the Burmese border area and a visit to a Paduang ("longnecks") village. Arrive in the late afternoon for overnight at the nice resort on the banks of the Pai River, just outside of the small town.

Day 4: Mae Hong Sorn - Mae Chaem

In the morning take a boat or bamboo raft (you have the choice!) for a scenic trip on the Pai River. Then start for a one hour ride on an elephant back through the surrounding jungle. Next visit two picturesque Shan temples, one on a hill which offers superb views, and the other one at the city lake. After lunch travel on through the mountains via Khun Yuam to Mae Chaem. Late afternoon arrive at the small town, situated at the foot of the highest mountain, Doi Inthanon. Overnight.

Day 5: Mae Chaem - Chiang Mai

In the morning continue Doi Inthanon National Park and see picturesque waterfalls, royal pagodas and hill tribe villages. Also short walks are possible. In the afternoon you will be back in Chiang Mai. There is time left for some sightseeing in the northern capital. Overnight at a hotel in the city center.

Day 6: Chiang Mai

Day at leisure until transfer to the airport..........or extend your stay.

Price includes:

Air-conditioned transportation during the tour, English speaking tour guide, all transfers and excursions as mentioned in the above itinerary, accommodation in middle- and upper middle class hotels/resorts, entrance fees, daily breakfast, lunch during tours, flight Mae Hong Sorn - Chiang Mai (if that option of the the tour is choosen)

Not included:

All drinks, tips and personal expenses

Flexibility:

For people who prefer a more relaxed version of this itinerary, there is the opportunity to stay a second night in Mae Hong Sorn on Day 4 and then take a short flight (no surcharge) back to Chiang Mai on Day 5. In this case the trip to Mae Chaem and Doi Inthanon National Park would be skipped, therefore more time and sightseeing in Mae Hong Sorn and Chiang Mai. At the time of booking, please let us know which version you do prefer. It is also possible to book an additional night in Mae Hong Sorn.