FOLLOW THE RIVER

FOLLOW THE RIVER : 

Mae Mae village holds a deep story of forest protection. In 1979, a major flash flood struck the village due to severe deforestation. After that devastating event, the community came together to protect their watershed forest. Strict local rules were created to prevent logging, firebreaks were built to stop forest fires, and the village slowly transformed into a community-based ecotourism destination. 

Today, two ethnic groups live together here, local northern Thai people and the Lahu tribe. In the past, the villagers depended on collecting tea leaves and fermented tea (Miang) from the forest. Over time, they shifted toward conservation tourism, while still preserving their strong cultural beliefs. Local traditions such as spirit worship of the water guardian, forest ordination, and watershed protection rituals are still respected today. 

As you hike deeper, the river becomes your companion. You will walk alongside clear streams, cross small creeks. One of the highlights is the hidden waterfall, where you can rest, take photos, and enjoy the refreshing water in a quiet jungle setting. 

Along the route, your guide will share stories about the forest, local plants, and village life. You will feel the rhythm of slow travel walking, listening to birds, touching cool stones in the river, and breathing in fresh mountain air. Around midday, you will enjoy a simple lunch surrounded by nature, with the sound of the waterfall as your background music. 

The river you hike alongside and crossing is not only a lifeline for nature, but also an important energy source for the village, used for small-scale hydroelectric power generation. By the end of the hike, you will not only experience the beauty of the forest, but also understand the deep connection between the community, the watershed forest, and sustainable living 

PRICE : 1,800 THB/PERSON 

Please Note :

• This activity is suitable for beginners.

• This experience requires at least 2 guests per booking.

• Suitable for 5+ years of age children and must be accompanied by an adult.

• Group size maximum 8 persons

DIFFICULTY LEVEL : Easy

Begin an adventure by traversing a challenging footpath extending around 6.5 kilometers, leading you through a dense and verdant forest. The trail is of easy difficulty, and we suggest assessing your readiness for the hike, taking into account your personal capabilities.

ITINERARY : 

• 08:00 - 08:30 : Pick up from your hotel or accommodation. 

• 08:30 : Enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour drive through rolling hills and lush forests north of Chiang Mai. 

• 10:00 : Arrive at Mae Mae village, the starting point of our adventure. 

• 10:30 : Lace up your boots and begin a 2-hour (3 km) trek to the waterfall. 

• 12:30 : Take a well-deserved break and enjoy lunch.

• 13:30 : Begin a 2-hour (3.5 km) descent through pristine forests, coffee plantations, and waterfalls.

• 15:30 : Farewell to the peaceful village and relax on a 1.5-hour drive back to Chiang Mai. 

• 17:00 - 17:30 : Drop-off at your hotel or accommodation. 

Please Note :

• Collection times may vary slightly depending on pick-up location.

• We offer a free transfer service to/from all places of accommodation within 5 kilometers radius of Chiang Mai’s Old City. Transport from locations outside this area will incur a surcharge.

WHAT TO BRING : 

• Personal medications

• Insect repellent

• Snacks

• Sunscreen

• Hat / Cap

• Sunglasses

• Comfortable clothing for hiking 

• Sturdy footwear

• Swimwear

• Towel

• Backpack

• Extra clothing for changing

• Camera or Smartphone

PACKAGE INCLUDES : 

• Insurance coverage

• Round-trip transportation

• All entrance fees

• English-speaking local guide

• Lunch

• Drinking water

• Hiking poles

IMPORTANT NOTES : 

• Participants should be in good health and have a reasonable level of fitness.

• The itinerary may change due to weather or trail conditions.

• Please inform us in advance of any chronic illnesses, allergies, or dietary restrictions.