We really enjoyed this comprehensive tour of Vietnam. Including time in more rural areas as well as the well known cities and sites, it gave us a great insight into local culture and there was plenty of opportunity to meet the locals who were incredibly friendly. The trip ran seemlesly in the extremely capable hands of our tour leader Diem, one of the best we've had (this was our 6th family holiday with Explore). Highlights would include all of the bike rides, exploring Tam Coc caves by boat, Saigon by cyclo, the amazing food, so fresh and plentiful, and the kids loved haggling for bargains in the markets and shops (especially Hoi An). Accommodation and transport were both of a great standard. Well done Explore!
Following a pick-up from your Chiang Mai hotel, transfer to the starting point of your hike (1.5 hour's drive) and begin with a gradual climb past through various plantations and deep jungle. You will be surrounded by unspoiled nature as your experienced trekking guide leads the way. There's a good chance you will encounter people going about their daily tasks. Throughout the hike, you'll come across scenic views of the valley below, and walk by coffee plantations. Your local guide will share information about the area and explain the customs of village life in northern Thailand. End up at a house for a rewarding Thai lunch with local fruits and freshly brewed coffee.
Afternoon, you'll transfer by car (45 min) to the nearby Sri Lanna national park and its scenic lake surrounded by forest and jungle. After a short paddle briefing, you'll navigate on your sit-on-top kayak, exploring the area inside the lake. Paddling and relaxing time. The paddling time is approximately one to 2 hours, depending on participant's fitness conditions.
Change and dry at a local restaurant, then transfer back to Chiang Mai for a drop off at your hotel at approximately 17:30.
Join us for an exciting day hiking through the wilds of Northern Thailand.
Meeting at your hotel in the city and depart Chiang Mai. Travel by car for approximately 1.5 hour to the trek starting point, in the mountain. Arrive at the starting point and begin your adventure.
Hike along one of the numerous available routes using local trails that can vary depending on the conditions of the day. The versatility of the itinerary will ensure that you experience some of Thailand's most pristine forest up close. Stop for lunch in the lush jungle or at a village, and enjoy a delicious lunch of homemade Thai food with fresh fruits, and a local freshly brewed coffee. (Hike 5 km)
After lunch, short walk to meet our drive or option to hike another hour to reach the next village, on a mostly downhill trail. Encounter friendly locals and get a glimpse into their everyday lives at the village. Drive back to Chiang Mai for an approximate arrival time in the city at 17:00. Drop off at your hotel.
This adventure/ecological tour will take you to the most unique and beautiful landscapes around Hue City where you can enjoy a day trekking away from the crowds in beautiful Bach Ma National Park.
A mountainous area not far from the coast, Bach Ma not only has atmospheric jungle and interesting flora & fauna but also spectacular views over the beautiful coastal beaches and lagoons. It is a hill-station founded by the French during the colonial period in the early 1930’s and it is not on the popular tourist route so you are likely to enjoy this natural wonder away from the crowds.
Our local guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel in Hue City and bring you to Bach Ma National Park, the mountainous area located about 45km from the city centre and 1.45m above sea level. Upon arrival, you will visit Bach Ma's information centre to learn about the ecological system of the Park.
Trek along the trails through the forest to Do Quyen, the Rhododendron waterfalls at a height of 300 meters. Continue to Ngu Ho (Five Lakes), where you can relax and enjoy a swim in the jungle. A picnic lunch will be served.
Later, head to the summit for the beautiful views. At the end of the tour, you will be driven back to your hotel.
Explore have exceptional guides and exceptional itineraries. You really get to see and explore a country in a safe and sustainable way. With lots of smiles and memories to last a lifetime. We will definitely be travelling with Explore again!