Chiang Mai: 15 Km Leisure River Kayaking at Mae Ngat Forest

Chiang Mai’s lush Mae Ngat Forest offers an idyllic setting for a tranquil river kayaking adventure. Gliding along the 15 km stretch of the scenic Mae Ngat River, adventurers will enjoy the region’s captivating natural beauty. Guided by certified experts, participants can expect a leisurely 3-hour paddle past verdant riverbanks teeming with vibrant wildlife. The journey culminates with a delectable vegetarian or vegan lunch, providing a well-deserved respite amidst the serene surroundings. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a beginner seeking a unique experience, this activity promises to deliver a harmonious blend of nature, culture, and relaxation. What’s more, the carefully curated details ensure a safe and comfortable exploration of Chiang Mai’s tranquil waterways.

This experience made our list of the 16 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Chiang Mai.

Key Points

• Explore the serene and unspoiled nature of Mae Ngat Valley and Mae Taeng Forest through a 15 km kayaking excursion led by certified guides.
• Experience an immersive journey by paddling through the picturesque landscapes, bamboo groves, and tranquil waters of the Mae Ngat River.
• Enjoy a 1-hour lunch break at the riverbank with vegetarian and vegan meal options and an opportunity to interact with local villagers.
• Benefit from the ‘reserve now, pay later’ booking system, flexible financial commitment, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Suitable for adventurers of all skill levels, with comprehensive safety measures and top-quality equipment provided to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The activity takes place in the picturesque Mae Ngat Valley and Mae Taeng Forest, located within the Chiang Mai province of northern Thailand.

This one-day adventure allows participants to kayak through 15 km of unspoiled nature, where they can witness wildlife and engage with the local rural life.

Both single and double kayaks are available, catering to solo travelers as well as groups.

The total duration of the activity is approximately 6 hours, including transportation, safety briefing, kayaking, and lunch.

With professional guides certified in first aid and CPR, and top-quality equipment, participants can feel safe and well-supported throughout the experience.

Pricing and Booking

The cost for this kayaking adventure ranges from £348.62 to £343.76 per person, allowing participants to save up to 10% on the total price.

Booking is available through a ‘reserve now, pay later’ system, which doesn’t require any upfront payment. On top of that, free cancellation is permitted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for participants.

Those interested in this exciting kayaking experience can easily secure their spot without any immediate financial commitment.

With the opportunity to save money and the option to cancel at no cost, this activity offers an accessible and stress-free way to enjoy the beautiful Mae Ngat Forest by kayak.

Itinerary Details

Participants begin their day with a pickup from the Chiang Mai city center, transported via Jeep or SUV for a 15-minute journey to the starting point.

Upon arrival, they’ll receive a 20-minute safety briefing before embarking on a 1-hour Jeep/SUV ride to reach the kayaking launch site.

Once there, the real adventure begins with a 3-hour kayaking excursion through the unspoiled Mae Ngat Forest.

After working up an appetite, you will enjoy a 1-hour lunch break at the riverbank, savoring vegetarian and vegan options from the Mango Plantation Restaurant.

The day concludes with a 45-minute return trip by Jeep/SUV back to Chiang Mai.

Key highlights of the itinerary include:

• Pickup and transportation from Chiang Mai city center

• Safety briefing and preparation for the kayaking adventure

• 3-hour kayaking journey through the stunning Mae Ngat Forest

• Scenic lunch break at the riverbank

• Comfortable return trip to Chiang Mai

Inclusions and Safety

Along With the guided kayaking experience, the activity includes professional kayaking guides certified in First Aid and CPR, who prioritize participant safety throughout the excursion. Top-quality hard-shell kayaks, hydration packs, and bottled water are provided, ensuring a comfortable and well-equipped journey. On top of that, a support truck accompanies the group, offering assistance and secure storage for participants’ valuables. To address any dietary requirements, vegetarian and vegan lunch options are available at the Mango Plantation Restaurant. Plus, a river fee of 150 baht per participant is required, and participants must provide their passport details at check-in.

Inclusions	Details
Guides	Certified in First Aid and CPR
Equipment	Hard-shell kayaks, hydration packs, bottled water
Lunch	Vegetarian and vegan options available
Support	Assistance vehicle, secure storage
River Fee	150 baht per participant, passport details required

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Participant Recommendations

Travelers should bring dry clothes, sunscreen, and a cap to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable kayaking experience.

According to the activity overview, the Mae Ngat Forest kayaking tour isn’t recommended for individuals with claustrophobia or those prone to motion sickness.

To prepare for the trip, participants should consider the following recommendations:

• Wear lightweight, quick-drying clothing that can get wet

• Apply sunscreen liberally to protect against the sun’s rays

• Bring a hat or visor to shield the face and neck from the sun

• Pack any necessary medications or motion sickness remedies, if applicable

Guided Kayaking Experience

The guided kayaking experience along the pristine Mae Ngat River offers participants an opportunity to enjoy the serene natural surroundings of the Mae Taeng Forest. Accompanied by experienced local guides, kayakers can navigate through the meandering waterways, witness diverse wildlife, and gain insights into the rural way of life along the riverbanks. The journey promises a well-rounded adventure, seamlessly blending outdoor exploration, culture, and a chance to disconnect from the everyday. With top-quality equipment, comprehensive safety measures, and thoughtful inclusions, the guided kayaking tour ensures a memorable and worry-free experience for adventurers of all skill levels.

Highlights	Description
Wildlife Spotting	Keep an eye out for diverse bird species, monkeys, and other fauna along the riverbanks.
Cultural Insight	Interact with local villagers and learn about their traditional way of life.
Scenic Tranquility	Paddle through the serene and unspoiled natural landscapes of the Mae Taeng Forest.

Scenic Mae Ngat River

Meandering through the lush Mae Taeng Forest, the scenic Mae Ngat River offers kayakers a tranquil and picturesque waterway to explore. Flowing gently through the countryside, the river provides a glimpse into the region’s natural beauty and rural life.

As kayakers paddle along, they’ll encounter:

• Verdant riverbanks lined with towering bamboo groves and tropical foliage

• Glimpses of wildlife such as colorful birds, monitor lizards, and the occasional shy otter

• Traditional wooden houses and farms nestled along the river’s edge

• Serene moments of stillness, interrupted only by the gentle lapping of the water against the kayak

This 15 km journey allows visitors to enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the Mae Ngat River.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Kayak?

Participants are generally not permitted to bring their own kayaks on this tour. The activity provider supplies top-quality kayaks as part of the package, ensuring the safety and comfort of all participants. Personal kayaks are not allowed for this guided excursion.

Is the Water Suitable for Swimming?

The water conditions are generally calm and suitable for swimming, though participants are advised to check with the guides before entering the water. Safety precautions should be followed, as the river may have some areas with stronger currents.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

The activity’s minimum age requirement for participants is not explicitly stated. However, it is generally recommended that children be at least 6-8 years old to safely participate in river kayaking activities, with proper supervision.

Are There Any Photo Opportunities During the Kayaking?

The kayaking experience offers ample photo opportunities throughout the journey. Paddling through the serene Mae Ngat Forest, participants can capture stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and glimpses of local rural life along the riverbanks.

Is There Any Wildlife Spotting During the Tour?

The tour offers excellent opportunities to spot wildlife along the river. Participants can expect to see various bird species, potentially monkeys, and other small animals that inhabit the lush Mae Ngat Forest. Guides are knowledgeable about the local fauna.

Recap

The Mae Ngat Forest kayaking adventure offers a peaceful and immersive experience in Chiang Mai’s natural surroundings.

Participants can enjoy a scenic 3-hour paddle, a delicious lunch, and the guidance of certified professionals.

Whether you’re a beginner or experienced kayaker, this activity provides a perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation, making it an ideal way to explore the tranquility of the region.

You can check if your dates are available here: