Chiang Mai, Thailand 12-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Chiang Mai

Arrive at Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX).

Transfer to your accommodation, check-in, and take some time to settle in after your journey.

Arrange airport transfer with your hotel or a reputable taxi service upon arrival. Currency exchange is available at the airport.

Explore Night Bazaar

Wander through the vibrant Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, a famous outdoor market offering everything from handicrafts and souvenirs to street food and local performances. Enjoy dinner from the numerous food stalls.

Bargaining is common for goods. Be sure to try local delicacies like Pad Thai, Khao Soi, and fresh fruit smoothies.

Elephant, Rafting & Waterfall Tour

Embark on an unforgettable journey combining an ethical elephant sanctuary visit, whitewater rafting, a visit to the Karen Long Neck Village, and the famous Sticky Waterfall. This tour offers a unique blend of animal interaction, culture, and adventure.

Wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities, swimming gear, and bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat. Respect the elephants and follow guide instructions. The long neck village visit is optional and can be skipped if preferred.

Sticky Waterfall, ATV & Rafting

Combine nature and excitement on this full-day adventure.

Visit the unique Sticky Waterfall (Bua Tong Waterfall) where you can climb the limestone formations, then experience the thrill of ATV riding and whitewater rafting through scenic landscapes.

Bring swimwear, a towel, change of clothes, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Be prepared for physical activity. Guides will provide safety briefings and equipment for ATV and rafting.

Half-Day Thai Cooking Class

Learn to cook authentic Thai dishes like a local with organic ingredients in an individual cooking station.

This class often includes a market tour to learn about local produce. Enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch!

Many schools offer hotel pickup. Dietary restrictions can usually be accommodated if informed in advance. You'll get to eat what you cook!

Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Journey up to one of Northern Thailand's most sacred temples, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, perched high on a mountain.

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Chiang Mai city from the temple grounds.

Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered). You can climb the Naga staircase (300+ steps) or take a funicular. Best visited in the late afternoon for cooler temperatures and sunset views.

Organic Coffee Hand-Roasting Workshop

Experience a unique journey into the heart of the forest to understand the process of organic coffee cultivation, hand-roasting, and brewing.

This immersive tour offers a deep connection to local life and the origin of your coffee.

This is a full-day experience, offering insights into sustainable practices and local communities. Wear comfortable shoes and light clothing. Lunch is often included.

Chiang Mai Old City Walk

Enjoy a leisurely evening stroll through the charming streets of Chiang Mai's Old City, enclosed by ancient walls.

Discover hidden temples, local shops, and enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local restaurant.

Perfect for soaking in the atmosphere. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating. Consider visiting Wat Chedi Luang or Wat Phra Singh if time permits before sunset.

Arrive in Phuket

Upon arrival at Phuket International Airport (HKT), transfer to your accommodation.

Settle in and prepare for your island adventures.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your comfortable resort and take some time to freshen up and relax after your journey.

Choose a hotel with a pool for evening relaxation.

Relax at Patong Beach

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Patong Beach.

Swim, sunbathe, or simply watch the waves. The beach can be lively with plenty of vendors and activities.

Consider renting beach chairs for comfort. Be mindful of personal belongings in crowded areas.

Dinner in Patong

Savor fresh seafood or traditional Thai cuisine at one of Patong's many restaurants.

Explore the lively streets in the evening.

James Bond Island Speedboat Adventure

Embark on an exclusive private speedboat tour to explore the breathtaking Phang Nga Bay, featuring the world-famous James Bond Island.

Marvel at the unique and diverse sights of Panak Island, including canoeing through sea caves.

Don't forget swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and a waterproof bag for your belongings. This tour is private for your group.

Relaxed Dinner

Enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant after a full day of island exploration.

Perhaps try a quiet beachfront eatery.

Discover Scuba Diving Racha Islands

Experience discovering scuba diving with 3 dives around the beautiful Racha Islands (Racha Yai and Racha Noi).

Perfect for beginners, with professional instructors. The Racha Islands are known for clear waters and vibrant marine life.

All necessary equipment and instruction are provided. Ensure you are comfortable in the water. For safety, avoid flying for at least 18-24 hours after diving. For those not diving, a separate boat trip or beach day can be arranged.

Relax at Freedom Beach

For those not diving, or for a more relaxed option, spend the day at the beautiful Freedom Beach, known for its pristine white sand and clear waters.

Accessible by longtail boat.

Bring cash as amenities can be limited. The beach is less crowded than Patong.

Seafood Dinner

Indulge in a delicious fresh seafood dinner at a local restaurant.

Phuket is renowned for its seafood.

Ziplining Adventure

Embark on an exhilarating ziplining experience through the lush jungle canopies of Phuket.

Soar above the trees and enjoy breathtaking views, a true adventure activity for the teenagers.

Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. Safety briefing and equipment provided. Book in advance.

Explore Phuket Old Town

Discover the charming Sino-Portuguese architecture, colorful shophouses, and vibrant street art of Phuket Old Town.

Wander through the historic streets, visit local cafes and boutiques.

Don't miss Thalang Road and Soi Romanee for the best photo opportunities. Plenty of unique souvenir shops.

Dinner in Old Town

Enjoy dinner at one of the atmospheric restaurants in Phuket Old Town, offering a blend of Thai and international cuisine.

Morning at Karon Beach

Spend a relaxed morning at Karon Beach, known for its long stretch of white sand and clear waters.

It's generally quieter than Patong and great for swimming and sunbathing.

Beach vendors are available for refreshments and massages. Enjoy the calm atmosphere before your next adventure.

Beachside Lunch

Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the many beachfront restaurants or cafes along Karon Beach.

Souvenir Shopping

Do some last-minute souvenir shopping in Karon or Patong to pick up gifts and mementos of your time in Phuket.

Prepare for Departure

Return to your hotel to pack and prepare for your early morning transfer to Koh Tao.

Enjoy a final dinner in Phuket.

Travel to Koh Tao

Depart from your accommodation in the Phuket/Phang Nga Bay area, transfer to a ferry terminal (e.

g., Donsak Pier near Surat Thani), and take a ferry to Koh Tao. Enjoy the scenic journey across the Gulf of Thailand.

Hotel Check-in & Settle

Check into your accommodation upon arrival in Koh Tao and take some time to settle in before your afternoon activities.

Most resorts offer transfer services from the pier, or you can find local taxis easily.

Beachside Lunch

Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the many restaurants along Sairee Beach, offering fresh Thai and international cuisine with great views.

Discover Scuba Diving Experience

Experience the magic of Koh Tao's underwater world with a beginner-friendly Discover Scuba Diving session.

You'll learn basic skills and take a guided dive with an instructor at a shallow, beautiful reef.

Many dive schools offer half-day discover scuba programs. Book in advance. No prior experience is needed.

Dinner at Sairee Beach

Dine at a beachfront restaurant on Sairee Beach, enjoying the lively atmosphere and beautiful sunset views. Many places offer fresh seafood BBQs.

Full Day Treasure Hunt on Koh Tao

Embark on an exciting Treasure Island Challenge, a unique six-hour immersive experience across Koh Tao. Your team will quest to find hidden treasure, exploring the stunning island along the way. This activity blends adventure with sightseeing.

Teams of no more than 6. Ideal for engaging teenagers with problem-solving and island exploration.

Late Lunch & Beach Relaxation

Enjoy a relaxed late lunch after your treasure hunt.

Afterwards, spend some time unwinding on one of Koh Tao's beautiful beaches, perhaps Sairee or another quiet spot.

This is a good opportunity for souvenir shopping or a final swim before preparing for departure.

Prepare for Departure

Return to your accommodation, pack your belongings, and check out.

Arrange for your transfer to the pier for your journey back to the mainland.

Travel from Koh Tao to Mainland/Airport

Take a late afternoon/evening ferry from Koh Tao back to the mainland (e.

g., Chumphon or Surat Thani). From there, transfer to an airport for your overnight flight or connecting travel.

Book combined ferry and bus tickets that connect directly to an airport (e.g., Chumphon Airport or Surat Thani Airport) for late-night flights or overnight buses/trains to Bangkok.