Thailand Essentials

Accompanied by your guide, you head to the docks and board a public water bus. Traveling along the water, you head toward the historic center on the right bank, to the flower market at Pak Khlong Talat. Stroll through the fragrant aisles and get your first taste of authentic, traditional Asia.

We set off to meet Bangkok's architectural jewels. Let us marvel at the splendor of the Grand Palace of Bangkok, built in 1782: a sumptuous complex of buildings and inner courtyards, including the Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). We discover the famous Emerald Buddha, a precious statue dating from the 14th century, at the heart of one of the most venerated sanctuaries in the country.

Then, on foot, we reach Wat Pho, one of Bangkok's oldest temples, renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and elegant pavilions. We discover the impressive Reclining Buddha, an iconic figure of the place, as well as the inner courtyards dotted with stupas and refined decorative details.

Next, we cross the river on board a small boat to reach Wat Arun, the famous "Temple of Dawn", standing on the right bank. Upon arrival, we can admire its spectacular central prang, finely decorated with porcelain mosaics and floral motifs that shimmer in the light.

A ride aboard a private traditional "long-tail" boat-taxi on the Chao Praya river, one of the country's most important waterways and a true vital artery of Bangkok. As we glide along the water, we discover the "Venice of the East", with its peaceful klongs, stilt houses and small temples hidden along the banks.

After lunch, you set out to discover the historic center of Ayutthaya. You explore in particular the Wat Mahathat, a major temple dating from the late 14th century, famous for the Buddha head entwined in the roots of a tree, which has become one of the symbols of the site.

The visit continues towards the Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, former royal temple and the largest in the ancient capital, recognizable by its elegant aligned chedis which testify to the former grandeur of the kingdom.

Finally, you discover the Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, renowned for its impressive reclining Buddha and its peaceful atmosphere, offering a beautiful conclusion to this immersion into the heart of Siamese history.

With your guide, you take a detour to the great Warorot market, where you can find all sorts of specialties from northern Thailand, such as Sai Ua (northern sausage), Moo Yo (traditional Vietnamese pork sausage), Nam Phrik Num (northern green chili paste) and dried fruits, among other delights. In addition to local food, the market also offers clothing, ceramics, fabrics, embroidery tools, flowers, and much more.

You then leave the city center to gain elevation heading towards the Doi Suthep temple, perched on the mountainside at approximately 1,200 meters altitude. A true symbol of Chiang Mai, this magnificent Buddhist temple offers an atmosphere filled with serenity and spirituality, where statues, sanctuaries and bells accompany the faithful and visitors in a moment of contemplation.

Along the way, a stop at Wat Pha lat, a more discreet temple nestled in the forest, appreciated for its peaceful setting and almost intimate atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Visit to the Wat Umong, a Buddhist temple founded in the 13th century and nestled at the foot of the Doi Suthep mountains. Surrounded by forest, this monastery offers a particularly peaceful atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

You discover the history of the place by crossing its ancient underground tunnels, carved for meditation. It is also an opportunity to exchange, when possible, with the resident monks and learn more about monastic life.

Upon arrival, we begin a guided hike on the Mae Wang trails. . We first walk along a mountain stream, before heading to higher ground and crossing the terraced rice fields that shape the region's landscape. We take a lunch break near a waterfall, with the opportunity to cool off.

In the afternoon, the hike continues through crops and mountain paths. We reach a Karen village for a stop, then continue to the rice fields where your guesthouse is located, for a peaceful end of day closer to local life.

Day accompanied by an English-speaking hiking guide. Total duration: approximately 5 hours 30 minutes, of which 3 hours 30 minutes of actual walking.

Tonight we are welcomed for dinner and the night at a Karen family's home, in a breathtaking setting on the edge of the jungle, surrounded by rice fields.

After breakfast at our hosts' place, we can enjoy a short morning walk in the surroundings before driving to Chi's camp, a young Karen who shares his daily life with his elephants.

Here, the approach is respectful and focused on animal welfare: no riding, no shows, and limited interactions, always supervised, to give the elephants the space and pace they need.

Upon arrival, we prepare the fruits that will be used to feed them. You set off to walk with them in the jungle, where they roam freely while feeding on the vegetation. Our guide helps us better understand their behavior and the attention paid to their balance, for an authentic, gentle and ethical encounter.

In the afternoon, to cool off, you enjoy a peaceful descent of the Mae Wang river aboard a traditional bamboo raft. Guided by a local boatman, the raft glides gently along the water, offering a calm and contemplative way to discover the surrounding landscapes.

At the quiet pace of the current, you travel through lush nature between forests, rice fields and wild banks. A simple and relaxing activity, ideal for ending the day gently.

We take advantage of our free stay on the superb Island of Koh Yao Noi. On site, you will have many activity options: kayaking, snorkeling… (not included). Or why not simply relax by the pool or on the beach.

Arrival at Bangkok airport where you can enjoy a leisurely dinner while waiting for your return international flight. On the return, with many flights departing late in the day, we organize this first program based on the assumption of returning from the islands on the same day as your return flight. If your flight is in the morning, we will adjust the program with an overnight stay in Bangkok the night before.