Duration
Authentic Thailand Classics: North to South
From $3,130 pp
Bookable From
November - February
Trip Style
Privately Guided
Country
Thailand
Physical Rating
Average
Overview
Discover the authentic classics of Thailand from the traditional cuisine and elephants near Chiang Mai in the north to the sparkling beaches of Krabi in the south.
This 12-day adventure through Thailand's enchanting landscapes and vibrant cultures is an expertly crafted blend of traditional experiences, tasty cuisine, and relaxing beach time.
After arriving in Bangkok, your trip will truly begin once you reach the northern haven of Chiang Mai. Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing Loy Krathong festival*, crafting traditional decorations and witnessing the breathtaking river lantern ceremony. You'll also be able to interact responsibly and ethically with elephants at the Elephant Rescue Park and savor a special Khantoke dinner.
Next, you'll journey to the picturesque Krabi, where you can enjoy days at your leisure by pristine beaches. You'll also have a private speedboat excursion to visit the idyllic Phi Phi Islands.
Ending your trip to Bangkok, you'll explore hidden scenes of this bustling and energetic city. For example, you'll go along the River of Life and experience the unique Damnoen Saduak and Talad Rom Hoob markets before enjoying a special gastronomic experience. Foodies will further delight in a Chinatown walking tour and a feast amid Bangkok's Dragon Belly to round out your time in Thailand.
*The Loy Krathong festival takes place on November 16th, 2024. If interested in this itinerary outside of the festival, we will modify it for you accordingly.
Highlights
- Loy Krathong workshop
- Festival celebration of Loy Krathong and Yi Peng
- Tuktuk city tour of Chiang Mai
- Traditional Khantoke dinner with dances and music
- Responsible elephant experience at the Elephant Rescue Park
- Private speedboat tour of the Phi Phi Islands
- Free time to explore Krabi and Chiang Mai at your leisure
- Boat tour along the 'khlongs' (canals) to discover the hidden scenes of Bangkok
- Traditional markets on boats and along railway tracks
- Unique gastronomic experience with a friendly local chef
Seasonal Notes
November through February is a fantastic time to visit Thailand. Temperatures are pleasant and mild, and the humidity is lower which makes outdoor activities more enjoyable. December and January are the peak months with the most visitors. We recommend November or February to assist with tourism dispersal and help combat overtourism.
Special times to visit:
- November is a special time to visit as one of Thailand's main festivals, Loy Krathong, typically falls during this month and is celebrated country-wide. In 2024, this festival falls on November 16th. In 2025, it will fall on November 6th.
Itinerary
Day 1 Bangkok [Thailand] (arrival day)
Day 2 Bangkok - Chiang Mai; Tuktuk Tour & Traditional Dinner
Day 3 Chiang Mai; Elephants & Festivals
Day 4 Chiang Mai; Free Day
Day 5 Chiang Mai - Krabi
Day 6 Krabi; Phi Phi Islands by Private Speedboat
Days 7-8 Krabi; Free Days
Day 9 Krabi-Bangkok; Hidden Scenes Boat Tour
Day 10 Bangkok; Traditional Markets & Gastronomic Experience
Day 11 Bangkok; Chinatown Walking Tour
Day 12 Bangkok (departure day)
Customization
Route Map
Inclusions & Exclusions
1 night shared-double room in Bangkok (Day 1) in a 4* hotel
10 nights private room accommodations in 4* hotels (Days 2-12)
Meals as mentioned in program
Transportation by private minivan with A/C
Transfers and transportation by private/public boat as mentioned in program
Local English-speaking guide
International flights to/from Thailand
Regional and domestic flights within Thailand
Visa fees upon arrival in Thailand
Hotel porters, tips, and personal expenses
Travel insurance
Any services not clearly mentioned in program
Pricing
Prices exclude flights to/from the destination.
Prices are for double room occupancy unless indicated otherwise.
Deposit per person
20% of the trip price
Private Room - sleeps 1 - price per person
$3,130 pp
Optional Add-ons
We can help you coordinate regional and domestic flights. Below prices are approximations are are subject to change; confirm before booking.
- One-way flight Bangkok-Chiang Mai: $100
- One-way flight Chiang Mai-Krabi: $180
- One-way flight Krabi-Bangkok: $150
Sustainability
Our tours follow sustainability guidelines developed in collaboration with ChildSafe and Travelife. We only offer certified tours with a controlled impact on our destinations and communities, reducing the negative environmental impact and generating a positive economic and social impact.
Since 2020, we decided to stop the distribution of single-use plastic bottles and replace them with the Refill not Landfill Project with water stations at the various hotels and vehicles.
Health & Safety
Be sure you have traveler's insurance.
- For the safekeeping of your passport, air tickets, cash, and other valuable items we advise the use of a neck wallet or money belt while traveling.
- We recommend you leave valuables at your home. A lock is suggested for securing your luggage.
- It is advised to consult or get professional advice from a travel doctor about vaccinations and medical travel information beforehand.
- Avoid consuming ice, salad, raw vegetables, and deep-fried, spicy, and greasy food. Be cautious with street food.
- Drink bottled or boiled water.
FAQs
What does the Physical Rating of "Average" mean?
It means the trip involves cultural sightseeing tours, local interaction, and local experiences. Guests should be prepared short regional and domestic flights lasting 1-2 hours, one activity that is about a 2-hour drive away, and other transportation by tuktuk and speedboat.
What are the accommodations like?
You'll be staying in 4* accommodations. If you prefer to upgrade or downgrade accommodations, contact us for pricing.
Is this a guided tour?
This is a partially guided tour. We've labeled it as "Privately-guided" as you will have guides throughout taking care fo your transportation and leading you through activities. That said, this itinerary also includes several days unguided that are completely at your leisure, and one transfer to Krabi airport that is not included.
What should I pack?
Some key items to remember:
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Mosquito repellent
- Beach ware
- Modest clothes for visiting temples and religious sites
Do I need a visa?
American citizens need a visa to visit Thailand and this is not included in your trip price. Price can vary a bit, generally it costs between $30-$50. You can visit the Thai embassy site directly or request a visa through our partner, iVisa.