We’ll pick guests up from hotels in Chiang Rai around 9 am, ready for a trip north to the golden triangle region – the point of convergence of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar.
Our first stop is the Mae Fah Luang Garden & Tree Top Walk at Doi Tung. This area is close to the Burmese border at the tip of the province, and there is plenty to explore here.
The Mae Fah Luang Garden is a complex of manicured plant beds carefully interspersed with fountains, rock art, wooden structures, and a small evergreen maze. The climate up here is slightly cooler, allowing for a range of beautiful roses, dahlias, and other plants not seen in the rest of Thailand.
The treetop walk is exactly what it sounds like – gently amble across suspension bridges elevated high among the treetops, affording stunning panoramic views of the surrounding forest, its wildlife, and the distant, intimidating mountain ranges. The surrounding area is lusciously green, so take the time to enjoy the views if you can handle the heights.
Enjoy a typical Thai lunch at the top of Doi Tung.
Feeling refreshed and rejuvenated after lunch, the next stop is the House of Opium. This fascinating museum traces the trade of opium and its historical impact on this region of Thailand, particularly in relation to the crop’s connection with the hill tribes of Thailand.
The last stop of the day is at the Golden Triangle viewpoint. Here, overlooking the mighty Mekong River. Take in the views of the meeting point of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar. Observe temples dotting the landscape, the distant enigmatic mountain ranges, and pick up a souvenir from the congregation of touristy stalls making the most of the iconic location.
Head back on the journey, returning to hotels in Chiang Rai around 16:30.