Leave the city behind and journey east into the cool mountain forests of Mae Kampong – a peaceful village nestled among mist-covered peaks and lush greenery. This full-day escape combines wildlife encounters, scenic forest trails, and an authentic taste of rural life in northern Thailand.

Morning: Scenic Drive & Gibbon Tracking

We’ll pick you up in Chiang Mai and head out on a picturesque one-hour drive towards the Lampang border. At 1,300 meters (4,200 feet) above sea level, the air is fresh, the views are sweeping, and the pace of life feels instantly calmer.

Before reaching the village, we’ll set off into the forest with a local caretaker to search for gibbons – rare primates successfully reintroduced here through a conservation program. Your visit directly supports this effort, helping provide food in lean seasons and ensuring their continued protection.

The guide will lead us to the best observation points, share the gibbons’ history, and explain their role in the forest ecosystem. As they roam freely, sightings aren’t guaranteed, but the experience of exploring their habitat is rewarding in itself.

Village Life & Waterfall Stop

From the forest, we’ll continue into Mae Kampong village, where wooden houses perch on steep slopes and streams wind through narrow lanes. You’ll have time to stroll, meet friendly locals, and visit a serene nearby waterfall – perfect for photos or a quiet moment. We’ll pause for coffee overlooking the valley before heading deeper into the forest for a more secluded trek.

Afternoon: Hidden Forest Trail & Local Lunch

A 3-kilometer (1.8-mile) trail known mainly to locals takes us past one of Chiang Mai’s oldest living trees and through an area rich in plant life. Your guide will point out edible and medicinal species, inviting you to taste, smell, and touch the forest’s natural treasures.

We’ll finish the day with a hearty local lunch in the village before making the return journey to Chiang Mai, carrying with you a deeper appreciation of the region’s beauty and culture.