Smiling Albino

Intro

Total Trip - 10 days

Seeking a cultural journey with an outstanding workout each day? This adventure stands out as ultimate, multi-activity Siamese experience. Awesome bike rides combine with stunning hikes and multiple modes of transport, each day more exhilarating than the last.

Begin with the style and flare of Bangkok, then to the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya and ultimately the country's northernmost province, Chiang Rai, for six fantastic days of biking and hiking.

You'll propel yourself across the country, from remote mountain villages to Golden Triangle border towns while enjoying the scenery, people and cuisine that have made the region famous.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Welcome to Thailand

We'll be waiting when your plane touches down, to brush off the pretzel crumbs and welcome you to The Land of Smiles. You'll be whisked to your home away from home and introduced to your surroundings. Upon check-in you'll receive your personalized Adventure Kit, lots of neat tidbits and your complimentary mobile phone. Sit back, relax, enjoy a swim and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. You'll enjoy great accommodations at the comfy and perfectly-located Citichic Hotel, in the heart of the city.

Day 2 - Bangkok Multi Transport Adventure

Today we'll explore several of the must-see sites, while using all kinds of urban transport (tuk-tuk, motorcycle, rapid train and boats) in a citywide blitz of temples, alleyways, rivers, canals and fine eats to give you a true appreciation of the City of Angels. Not only can you check Bangkok off your list, but you'll do it in swinging style!

Meals: B,L

Day 3 - Ancient Ayutthaya

Prior to its sacking by the Burmese in 1767, Ayutthaya was the crowning jewel of Siam. We'll board a private shuttle for our short journey 90km north from Bangkok then use Mary-Poppins-style bicycles to explore the ancient ruins and stone palaces that make up this UNESCO World Heritage Site. After our day exploring, we'll shuttle back to Bangkok and catch an early evening flight to the country's northernmost province, Chiang Rai. Arriving at Chiang Rai just after sunset sets the ideal tone for the next five days. We'll spend the next two nights of our odyssey at The Legend Chiang Rai, a stunning boutique riverside resort.

Biking: 10km (paved roads)
Meals: B,L

Day 4 - Bikes, Boats & Elephants

Hang on for a day you'll never forget. Using bicycles we'll ride through beautiful valleys, past mountain temples and visit a monk's cave en-route to a Karen hilltribe elephant camp. Mount your very own pachyderm, ride through the hills then enjoy a light lunch along the river. We'll journey back to Chiang Rai in a longtail boat, as postcard-like visuals fill the backdrop. Tonight celebrate with a dinner of champions at a traditional outdoor restaurant and top it all off with a visit to the Night Bazaar.

Biking: 20-40km (paved/dirt roads)
Meals: B,L,D

Day 5 - Into the Bush

Today's a gorgeous one as we head out on our bikes to the far-flung town of Mae Salak, and a very cool bamboo resort along the banks of the Mae Kok River. We can either take a tough dirt path or hilly paved road there, either way the ride is amazing. You'll pass jungle-covered mountains, lush fields and smiling locals all the way. A short longtail boat ride takes us into the Huai Khum Resort and truly away from civilization. Enjoy the rest of the day swimming in the pool, relaxing on your balcony and exploring the Lahu hilltribe village next door.

Biking: 50km, dirt trails or paved roads
Meals: B,L,D

Day 6 - Paddler's Paradise

Enjoy a leisurely morning then we'll go up-river to Tha Ton, a riverside town near the Thai-Myanmar border. Here we'll learn about the Shan people that inhabit the area and have a look at local weaving shops before the main event - kayaking. We'll board sit-on-top sea kayaks for a multi-hour journey down the quiet Mae Kok River, passing hilltribe villages and lush fields. A riverside picnic will round things out and an optional short hike back to the hotel is the capstone on a perfect day!

Paddling: 3-4 hours
Hiking: 1-2 hours
Meals: B,L,D

Day 7 - Hilltribe Hiatus

Today it's off to one of Thailand's most stunning destinations - Doi Mae Salong. Nestled amongst terraced tea plantations, this area was once opium country, but is now home to Thailand's premier Oolong tea production, and Chinese who fled China during the Cultural Revolution. Put on your hiking shoes for a day trekking through terraced tea and rice plantations, hilltribe villages and stunning rolling mountains around the Doi Mae Salong area. Locals are bound to be as curious about you as you are with them. We'll also sample local teas, visit a mountain-top temple and local school. Tonight we'll enjoy staying at one of the north's coolest hotels - the Phu Chaisai - truly a wonderful place to refresh and relax.

Hiking: 15km dirt paths
Meals: B,L,D

Day 8 - The Far, Far North

An early morning shuttle through the mountains takes us to one of the kingdom's best community development projects - Doi Tung, run by the Mae Fah Luang Foundation. Here we'll learn about the foundation's successful eradication of opium production, then head out for a challenging day in the saddle. We'll pedal to the top of Doi Chang Mub, one of the province's highest mountains and along a spectacular road that literally straddles the Thai-Myanmar border, passing through several military checkpoints along the way. Hang on to your handlebars as incredibly windy and steep descents bring you to the country's northernmost city Mae Sai. Here we'll have lunch, stroll colorful markets and check out the bustling border trading. Then it's back on the bikes for a final ride through flat farmland to the infamous Golden Triangle where Thailand, Myanmar and Laos meet. Tonight we'll enjoy a Thai-style dinner along the banks of the Mekong River and enjoy a stay at the Serene Hotel.

Biking: 65km hilly, paved roads
Meals: B,L,D

Day 9 - Golden Triangle

Get ready for the final ride of the adventure. Today's pedal is stunning! You'll make your way through lush farmland, over a couple of small mountains and finally along the banks of the Mekong River to our destination Chiang Khong. Tonight we'll stay in a riverside hotel, Namkhong Riverside and enjoy the best Mexican food in Thailand!

Biking: 80km paved roads
Meals: B,L,D

Day 10 - Mekong Life

Our final day in the far north is a great one to sit back, relax and take it all in over a relaxing breakfast. We'll then drive to the Golden Triangle where you'll visit the fascinating Hall of Opium, a world-class museum that covers the global history of the drug and the role it played in this area. A final lunch together along the Mekong River and then it's to the Chiang Rai airport for your flight to Bangkok and onwards. Until next time...

Meals: B

 

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FAQs

What kind of bikes and equipment do you provide on this trip?

We use high-quality, 24-speed Shimano-equipped mountain bikes, with front suspension. A variety of bike sizes are available to accommodate all riders. In addition to your bike, we provide bike helmets, riding gloves, safety lights and water bottles. You are of course welcome to bring your own equipment as well. A hydration pack is a handy item to bring along, as well as clip-less pedals and your favorite bike seat if you're attached to one.

What is the cycling like?

You'll ride well-paved roads, dirt roads and some single-track. We'll ride between 35-80km each riding day, with a total distance of 300km. The rides are best suited to riders with a good deal of prior riding experience, but are modifiable. It is common to have a variety of cycling abilities on the same trip. A full-time support vehicle will follow us on biking days providing assistance to any riders in need of a break or service. Ample water, electrolyte beverages and snacks are always provided. Daily riding maps also enhance the journey.

How much hiking will we do?

During our days on the trail, we'll walk for 4-6 hours, covering about 15km each day. Paths are dirt and occasionally steep. A general level of fitness and appreciation of hiking will prepare you for these outings.

Can I bring my own bike?

Sure, we understand that riding your own bike is important - nothing else fits as well or feels as good. We'll help move your bike from Bangkok to Chiang Rai, then help assemble it and package it up again at the end of your journey. Thai Airways allows your checked bike (packed in a box) as a piece of luggage, so getting it up north is no problem.

What kind of clothing & equipment is specific to this trip?

For the cycling portions on this trip you might want to bring cycling shorts and shirt. We provide helmets, gloves, bottles, etc., but you are of course welcome to bring your own.

What kind of clothing should I bring?

Travel in clothing you feel comfortable wearing in hot weather for an entire day. Quick-dry, wick-away fabric is ideal for active days. For a more on this subject, check out What to Pack.

What if it rains?

Our adventures run year-round, rain or shine. During the rainy season (July-Oct) it's a good idea to bring an umbrella and be prepared to get a bit wet. When it really pours we take shelter, enjoy a beverage and let it pass, which is usually quickly - then we'll continue exploring. It's a great experience to see a SE Asian rain shower up close!

Our group includes a variety of ages, interests and abilities - will we enjoy the same trip?

Yes, our adventures are flexible. If one member of your group doesn't want to ride a bike, we'll have a van waiting while you enjoy a good pedal. You may not want to ride a motorscooter, so you can enjoy the comfort of our van or even try riding on the back of your guide's bike for a while. We are experienced in ensuring everyone has their own perfect holiday while traveling together.

Read our Testimonials to learn more about how flexible our trips are.

Have more questions?

We have lots more information in our Travel Tips section that will give you an idea of what it's like to travel with Smiling Albino. You can read more on food, weather, language, history and culture, see where you'll be travelling, and maybe find a book or two that you can read before your adventure.

Visit the Travel Tips area.

 

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Trip Gallery

Upgrade Options

Want a Five star stay in Bangkok?

During your three nights in Bangkok, enjoy a Deluxe Room at the Four Seasons, one of the world's great hotels: $300US/room/night.

Want to upgrade your accommodations in the Golden Triangle?

This trip is modifiable, and there's no reason you can't enjoy the same activities while upgrading in Chiang Rai or while in the Golden Triangle.

Treat yourself to Pool Villa for two nights at The Legend Chiang Rai. Additional trip cost: $165US/pp (double) or $330US/pp (single).

Enjoy a Deluxe room at the amazing Anantara Golden Triangle. Additional trip cost: $115US/pp (double) or $225US/pp (single).

Need time on the beach when you're done? Our Thailand beach escapes are second to none.

Smiling Albino has an extensive selection of amazing beach resorts and destinations. Check out our options and let us know if we can add a beach escape to your trip.

Flights to & from Bangkok can be arranged.

Need a hotel in Bangkok before or after the trip?

Either downtown or at the airport we can accomodate you.

Downtown: Majestic Grande $115US/night or the Four Seasons $300US/pp/night (double) or $600US/pp/night (single).
Airport: Novotel Suvarnabhumi $220US/night.

Like to customize this adventure as a private trip?

Any of our trips can be changed up and moved around to give you the perfect experience. Take a look at one of our custom trip examples and let us know what we can do for you.

 

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