Kayaking for 35 KM over 2 days is an amazing way to experience the river life in northern Thailand. To get to the town of Monkong, which is located 100km north of Chiang mai in the Mae Taeng Valley to the west of Chiang Dao, we'll need to take a 2.5 hour drive.
Over the course of two days, we'll kayak down the Mae Taeng river as it winds through the dense jungle and foothills of the Chiang Dao massive, passing by the hill tribe villages, isolated farm land, pristine canyons to our final destination, the Sopkai hill tribe village . We'll navigate Class 2-3 currents and rapids until we reach our first overnight takeout point, the hill tribe village of Baan Pa Kholam.
After a satisfying meal and a stroll through the village, we'll immerse ourselves in the local culture by camping out in a long house for the night, falling asleep to the soothing sounds of jungle life. The next day, we'll continue kayaking through the river valley, encountering lively currents that send us down the valley. Lots of fun rapids and currents. In the early afternoon, we'll arrive at our destination, the hill tribe village of Sopkai. The drive back to Chiang mai leads past elephants grazing by the side as we leave the Mae Taman Valley.
2 Day Trip Schedule :
Hotel pickup: 8:30am Return day 2 approx. 4:30 pm
Trip: 2 day, 34 km, kayaking the Mae Taeng River, Muang Khong village to Sopkai village
Grade: Class 2
Distance/Time: 17 km per day , 4+ hrs per day Fitness level: good, motivated beginners are welcome,
Overnight: Hill tribe accomodation at Baan Pa Kholam.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner included, vegetarian ok. All Drinking water provided
Kayaks: Maneuverable Sit On Tops Kayaks and White Water Kayaks.
Seasonal restrictions: This trip is best November through June at lower water levels.