ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival in Bangkok
Welcome to Thailand! After the arrival of the whole group, we will be transferred to our hostel for check-in. Depending on the arrival time, we will have the rest of the day free to relax or start exploring this vibrant city!

‍Day 2: Authentic Bangkok – Tuk-Tuks & Local Markets
This morning, we will join Pradit and Suban, expert tuk-tuk drivers, to explore the alleys and markets of Bangkok. We’ll start at the unique Talad Noi, a motor parts market that reveals a hidden side of the city, away from the tourist crowds. Then, we’ll head to Chinatown to taste local delicacies from our favorite vendors and visit the famous Pak Klong Talad, Bangkok’s largest flower market, where Ward and Goi, two local vendors, will teach us the art of lotus folding.
Finally, we’ll cross the Chao Phraya River to discover the lesser-known side of Thonburi and taste roasted duck at a century-old restaurant. The tour lasts about 4-5 hours and ends at the Robinson Bangrak Shopping Mall. The afternoon is free.‍

Day 3: Thonburi Canals & Overnight Train to Chiang Mai
We escape the city’s chaos to explore the more relaxed side of Bangkok. Aboard a private slow boat, we’ll navigate through Thonburi’s canals, where time seems to have stopped among stilt houses, hidden temples, and local communities. After a traditional lunch in a secret garden, we head to the train station in the afternoon for our overnight journey to northern Thailand.

‍Day 4: Arrival in Chiang Mai & Free Day
Upon arriving in Chiang Mai in the morning, we’ll have time to settle into the peaceful atmosphere of this northern city. We can stroll through the old town’s alleys, where ancient temples like Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh tell the region’s history. Alternatively, we can stop at one of the many local cafés offering coffee blends from the surrounding hills, a symbol of fair and sustainable trade.
If you prefer to relax after the long train journey, you can opt for a traditional treatment at a local spa or explore the vibrant markets, such as the famous Night Bazaar (if we arrive on a Sunday).

Day 5: Sunrise at Doi Suthep & The Art of Meditation
Today, we start before sunrise with a visit to the iconic Doi Suthep Temple, where we’ll witness monks chanting in meditation and participate in morning offerings. With Khun Kit, a former monk, we’ll explore the forest-immersed temple of Wat Pha Lat and take a guided lesson on walking meditation.
After a coffee break, we’ll visit the underground temple of Wat Umong, known for its atmospheric tunnels. The experience starts at 5:00 AM and concludes with a transfer option to your hotel or Ban Kang Wat, an artisan village where we can enjoy a traditional breakfast and participate in optional art workshops before heading back to the hostel.

Day 6: Arrival at a Karen Tribe Village
This morning, we check out and get ready to head north! At 9:00 AM, our transport will pick us up in Chiang Mai for a scenic journey through national parks and mountains to a unique hillside village, home to communities preserving ancient traditions. Upon arrival, we’ll be welcomed by our host families with a meal cooked using organic ingredients grown in nearby fields.
Over the next few days, we will stay near one of Thailand’s few truly ethical elephant sanctuaries. A team of biologists and researchers works closely with local communities to protect these majestic creatures while ensuring sustainable livelihoods for the Karen tribe, who have inhabited these lands for centuries.
In the afternoon, we’ll participate in a traditional handicraft workshop—learning to weave baskets, work with bamboo, or create natural fabric dyes. The evening ends with a community dinner around the fire or at our homestay.

Day 7: Elephants in Their Natural Habitat – Ethical Tourism & Conservation
Today, we venture into the jungle with a team of biologists to observe free-roaming elephants in their natural habitat. No shows, no forced baths—just a chance to learn about their behavior and document their habits in an ethical and responsible way. After a lunch immersed in the forest, we return to the village to deepen our understanding of the conservation project and participate in community initiatives.

Day 8: Gibbons & Tribal Villages
After a morning encounter with elephants, we move to a second conservation center, this time focused on gibbons. We visit Gibbon Encounters, a project dedicated to protecting these agile primates known for their distinctive calls that echo through the forest. We’ll learn about their biology and the threats they face from deforestation and climate change.
Guided by project members, we’ll explore the forest in search of gibbons, following their calls. Later, we’ll reach another Karen village, one of the indigenous tribes of northern Thailand. Here, we’ll taste traditional dishes made with local ingredients and learn about the sustainable farming techniques adopted by the community.

Day 9: Sounds of Nature & Unforgettable Sunsets
This morning, we continue exploring the jungle. We’ll visit a local cave and waterfalls and enjoy another meal in nature. Our days in the village will teach us so much about local culture and the way of life in this remote part of Thailand, far from stereotypes and the usual tourist spots.

Day 10: Final Day in Nature & Return to Chiang Mai
After a good breakfast and a few last hours in the forest, today marks the end of our time in the mountains. We return to Chiang Mai with unforgettable memories. In the evening, we board another overnight train back to Bangkok.

Day 11: Arrival in Bangkok & Free Day
We arrive in Bangkok early in the morning, and today is free for us to explore the city at our own pace. For first-time visitors, we can visit the magnificent Grand Palace, the colorful temples of Wat Arun and Wat Pho, or take a peaceful walk in the lush Lumpini Park.
The evening is perfect for diving into Bangkok’s incredible food scene, with options ranging from Michelin-starred street food to refined dining experiences full of flavor!

Day 12: Visit to a Social or Animal Welfare Project
Today, we have a free day to explore Bangkok at our own pace or engage in a meaningful experience. Those interested can visit a social project supporting local communities, discovering initiatives related to education, women’s empowerment, or urban sustainability.
Alternatively, we can deepen our understanding of animal welfare by visiting a center dedicated to rehabilitating and protecting local wildlife, learning about conservation challenges and the impact of responsible tourism. A day to make a difference before saying goodbye to Thailand.

Day 13: International Departure
This morning, we check out from our hostel and transfer to the airport for our return flight. Goodbye, Thailand—until next time!"