Thailand in Summer

Accompanied by your guide, you head to the docks and then board a public water bus. Along the water, you head up towards the historic center, on the right bank, to the flower market at Pak Khlong Talat. Stroll through the fragrant aisles and immerse yourself in an authentic and traditional Asia.

We set out to discover the architectural gems of Bangkok. 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 there 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 emblematic 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 will be able to admire its spectacular central prang, finely decorated with porcelain mosaics and floral patterns that glisten in the light.

Cruise aboard a private traditional "long-tail" boat on the Chao Praya river, one of the country's most important waterways and a true lifeline of Bangkok. As we travel along the water, we discover the "Venice of the East," between peaceful klongs, stilt houses and small temples hidden along the banks.

With your guide, you take a detour to the Warorot market, where you can find all kinds of northern Thai specialties, 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.

In the afternoon, a 3-hour tuk-tuk ride through Chiang Mai, passing through its iconic temples, lively markets and charming alleyways.
An authentic immersion between tradition and modernity, with stops to discover local culture.
A lively and exotic experience, ideal for exploring the city in a different way and feeling its unique energy.

This morning, you set off by bike to discover Chiang Mai, nicknamed the "Rose of the North". Starting from the famous Tha Phae gate, and with the mountains of Doi Suthep as a backdrop, you quickly leave the main roads to slip into the small streets and traditional alleyways of the city.

You will discover many ancient temples, monks walking through the city, lively markets and the daily lives of residents, in particular the craftspeople from mountain communities going about their activities as we cycle past them, under their curious eyes, in their neighborhood.

Small group activity accompanied by an English-speaking local guide.

Late in the afternoon, you depart for a traditional cooking class in English, organized in the countryside, outside Chiang Mai, in an old Lanna style house. In a friendly atmosphere, you discover the basics of Thai cuisine and learn to balance the emblematic flavors: spicy, sweet, salty and tangy.

Throughout the session, you prepare several must-try recipes, before tasting your creations on site.

Vegetarian or vegan options available. (Please inform us in advance)

Menu (indicative):

• Tom Yum Goong (sour and spicy shrimp soup) or Tom Kha Gai (coconut milk chicken soup with lemon)

• Pad Thaï (Thai-style stir-fried rice noodles)

• Panang Moo (Panang pork curry)

• Pad Makhueau Yao (stir-fried Chinese eggplants) or Poh Pia tod (fried spring rolls)

For dessert, Khao Niao Mamuang (sticky rice with coconut milk and mango) is served.

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

In the afternoon, the hike continues through farmland 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 close to local life.

Day accompanied by an English-speaking hiking guide. Total duration: approximately 5h30, including 3h30 of actual walking.

Tonight we are welcomed for dinner and the night with a Karen family, 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 surrounding area before driving to Chi's camp, a young Karen who shares his daily life with his elephants.

Here, the approach is respectful and centered on animal welfare: no riding, no shows, and limited interactions, always supervised, in order 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 move freely while feeding on the vegetation. Our guide helps us better understand their behavior and the attention given to their wellbeing, 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 with the current, offering a calm and contemplative way to discover the surrounding landscapes.

At the slow 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.

This morning, we venture deep into the Doi Inthanon National Park.

Along the way, we will stop for a short walk to the Sirithan and Wachirathan waterfalls.

We finally reach the highest point in Thailand, and begin a approximately 1.5-hour hike through the forest and ridge with a stunning panorama over the region on the Kew Mae Pan nature trail. We will pass near waterfalls, and discover the 2 immense pagodas that stand majestically at the summit of the mountain.

Our day ends in the small hamlet of Baan Pa Pong Piang. Lost in the mountains of Doi Inthanon National Park, you will discover one of the most beautiful rice terraces in Thailand, if not the most beautiful.

Walk through the rice fields, before spending the night in a small guesthouse.

Upon arrival in Chiang Mai, you head to the outskirts of the city to discover the magnificent Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, located in the mountains at 1200m altitude.

This superb Buddhist temple invites you to pious meditation in an atmosphere steeped in silence and mysticism, where each stone, each statue, each step reveals an aspect of Buddhism. Along the way, a stop at the Wat Pha Lat temple.

Stop at a hotel near the airport so you can shower before boarding your train.

Morning dedicated to a bicycle tour of Ayutthaya, the former capital of the Siamese kingdom. We set out to discover the historic center of the city, including the temple Wat Mahathat, dating from the late 14th century.

Continuing towards the temple Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, which formerly served as a royal temple, and is therefore the largest in the city; Finally, Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon famous for its reclining Buddha.

Free days to enjoy the beach and available activities (not included, to be booked on site):

• Boat excursion

• Hiking

• Mountain biking

• Cooking class

• Elephant sanctuary (if available)

• And many more

Depending on your flight time, departure for Bangkok airport.

Goodbye and see you soon in the land of smiles!