Chiang Dao Cave Trekking Small Group Tour – Full Day

The Chiang Dao Cave Trekking Small Group Tour promises an unforgettable day of exploration in northern Thailand. Adventurous travelers can marvel at the stunning stalactites and stalagmites adorning five limestone caverns, many of which serve as sacred Buddhist shrines. Guided treks through winding, lantern-lit passages lead to the Buatong Sticky Waterfall, where visitors can safely walk up the unique limestone steps. With knowledgeable guides and personalized attention, this tour offers an enriching experience in Thailand’s natural beauty. But the real question is, what other delights await those who embark on this remarkable journey?

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Chiang Mai.

Key Points

• This full-day small group tour explores five distinct limestone cave systems in Chiang Dao, featuring stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and Buddhist shrines.
• The tour includes a hike to the Buatong Sticky Waterfall, a unique natural attraction with a sticky, mineral-coated surface.
• Guides provide lanterns and personal attention to assist with the trekking through winding, humid cave passages.
• The tour includes transportation, bottled water, insurance coverage, and entrance fees to the Chiang Dao Cave and Namtok Bua Tong-Nam Phu Chet Si National Park.
• The tour has received excellent customer feedback, with guides praised for their knowledge and the overall experience rated 5.0/5 based on reviews.

Tour Overview

This full-day small group tour invites travelers to explore the captivating limestone caverns of Chiang Dao Cave, immersing them in the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Over the course of the day, guests will venture into five distinct cave systems, marveling at the stunning stalactites and stalagmites that adorn the interiors. Many of these formations serve as sacred Buddhist shrines, offering a unique cultural perspective.

Beyond the caves, the tour also includes a hike to the renowned Buatong Sticky Waterfall within the Namtok Bua Tong-Nam Phu Chet Si National Park.

Ideal for active adventurers, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of northern Thailand’s remarkable natural wonders.

Tour Highlights

Travelers can explore five limestone caverns featuring beautiful stalactites and stalagmites, many of which serve as Buddha shrines. Plus, the tour includes a visit to Namtok Bua Tong-Nam Phu Chet Si National Park for a hike to the Buatong Sticky Waterfall, providing an opportunity for active adventurers to experience the region’s unique natural wonders.

Cavern Feature	Description
Stalactites	Hanging formations that grow downward from the ceiling
Stalagmites	Cone-shaped formations that grow upward from the floor
Buddha Shrines	Caverns that have been converted into places of worship
Lighting	Guides provide lanterns to illuminate the cave interiors
Exploration	Trekking through the winding, humid passages

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle for transportation and an English-speaking guide to provide personal attention throughout the day.

Bottled water and insurance coverage are also provided. Guests receive pick-up and drop-off service at their hotel, within a 2-kilometer radius of Thapae Gate.

The entrance fee to Chiang Dao Cave, which costs 40 THB, is included. For those wanting a more immersive experience, an optional guide with a lantern can be hired for an additional 300 THB per group of 4.

However, personal expenses, food, and drinks aren’t covered in the tour price. The inclusions ensure a comfortable and guided adventure through the natural wonders of Chiang Dao Cave.

Meeting and Pickup

Free pick-up areas include Central Chiang Mai and surrounding areas of the Old City Wall, where the tour guide will contact you the evening before to confirm pickup time.

Plan to arrive at the meeting point/hotel lobby 10 minutes early, as the tour departs promptly. If your hotel is outside the free pickup area, simply meet the group at the convenient Tha Phae Gate location. This ensures a smooth start to your adventure-filled day.

Confirmation of your booking is received immediately, and you can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience begins.

With the option to reserve now and pay later, getting ready for your Chiang Dao Cave trekking tour couldn’t be easier.

Additional Details

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though most travelers can participate.

Confirmation is received immediately upon booking, and a free cancellation policy allows changes up to 24 hours before the experience. Plus, travelers have the option to reserve now and pay later, making it convenient to secure their spot.

Some key details to note about this tour:

• Not suitable for those with mobility restrictions

• Confirmation provided instantly after booking

• Flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

• Reserve now, pay later option available

• Tour operates rain or shine, so be prepared for variable weather conditions

Customer Feedback

Travelers have praised the guides for their knowledge and friendliness, highlighting the adventure of exploring the caves and the fun at the Sticky Waterfall.

Some found the cave passages hot and humid, suggesting an option to skip certain areas. Many recommend opting for local guides for the cave experience and enjoying the scenic lunch options provided during the tour.

The customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with the tour earning a 5.0/5 rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews.

Travelers seem to appreciate the small group size, personal attention, and the opportunity to enjoy the unique natural wonders of Chiang Dao Cave and the surrounding national park.

Exploring the Caves

The five limestone caverns of Chiang Dao Cave feature an array of captivating stalactites and stalagmites, with many serving as sacred Buddhist shrines. Visitors can explore these subterranean wonders, marveling at the natural formations and cultural significance found within.

The tour guide leads the way, often utilizing a lantern to illuminate the cave passages. Trekkers can expect to encounter:

• Massive limestone pillars and delicate crystal formations

• Tranquil pools reflecting the cavern’s ethereal beauty

• Intricate rock carvings and Buddha statues adorning the walls

• Narrow, winding passages requiring agility and care to navigate

• The opportunity to witness the reverence locals hold for this sacred site

Visiting Sticky Waterfall

After exploring the Chiang Dao Cave, the tour takes visitors to Namtok Bua Tong-Nam Phu Chet Si National Park to hike to the renowned Buatong Sticky Waterfall.

This natural wonder features limestone steps that are covered in a unique mineral deposit, creating a bizarrely sticky surface. Trekkers can safely walk up the waterfall, as the sticky texture provides excellent traction.

The hike to the waterfall offers stunning views of the surrounding forest and mountains. Many consider this portion of the tour a highlight, providing a fun and thrilling experience.

The tour guide ensures visitors make the most of this unique natural attraction before heading back.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Suitable for People With Physical Limitations?

The tour may not be suitable for those with significant physical limitations, as the activity includes hiking and exploring caves which can be challenging. However, the tour provider notes it’s suitable for most travelers.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but they’re not included in the tour price. The tour provides bottled water, while other personal expenses like food and drinks are the responsibility of the participants.

How Do I Prepare for the Cave Exploration?

To prepare for a cave exploration, wear comfortable, breathable clothing, sturdy shoes with good traction, and bring a flashlight or headlamp. Drink plenty of water and be mindful of low ceilings or uneven surfaces within the cave.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

There are generally no age restrictions for this tour, but it’s recommended that participants be able to walk comfortably for several hours and navigate uneven terrain in the caves. The tour provider can advise on any specific age considerations.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Interests?

The tour operator may allow some customization of the itinerary to accommodate the traveler’s interests, though the core highlights are generally fixed. It’s best to inquire with the tour provider about any flexibility in the program.

Recap

The Chiang Dao Cave Trekking Small Group Tour delivers an exceptional day exploring Thailand’s stunning natural wonders.

Venture through breathtaking limestone caverns, marvel at sacred Buddhist shrines, and experience the unique Buatong Sticky Waterfall.

With knowledgeable guides and personalized attention, this tour provides an enriching adventure in the heart of Thailand’s captivating landscapes.