Chiang Mai: Sticky Waterfalls, Lake Kayak and Cycling Tour

Chiang Mai, the cultural heart of northern Thailand, beckons adventurers to explore its natural wonders. Embark on an exhilarating day trip that promises to immerse you in the region’s stunning landscapes. From the visitor center, you’ll embark on a peaceful long-tail boat ride to Mind Coffee, where a world of aquatic activities awaits. Indulge in a hearty Thai lunch, admire the iconic Buatong "sticky" waterfall, and discover the tranquil beauty of the Mae Ngat Dam Lake. With the option to visit the idyllic Le Cocotier Resort, this excursion offers a captivating blend of outdoor exploration and culture. Prepare to be captivated by Chiang Mai’s natural allure.

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

Key Points

• This full-day adventure tour takes visitors from Chiang Mai to the stunning Buatong "sticky" waterfall, Mae Ngat Dam Lake, and Le Cocotier Resort.
• Highlights include a long-tail boat ride, swimming, kayaking, and a Thai lunch at a floating cottage on the lake.
• The tour provides opportunities to immerse in the natural beauty of the region, including lush greenery, rolling hills, and quaint villages.
• Necessary gear and equipment, such as kayaks, life jackets, and helmets, are included in the tour.
• The tour is suitable for those with moderate fitness levels, but restrictions apply for non-swimmers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Itinerary Overview

The tour kicks off with a scenic one-hour transfer from Chiang Mai to the visitor center. From there, visitors hop aboard a 20-minute long-tail boat ride to Mind Coffee, where they’ll have free time to swim, kayak, and explore the area for an hour.

Next, they’ll enjoy a hearty Thai lunch at a local floating cottage. The adventure continues with an optional 20-minute boat ride to Le Cocotier Resort, followed by a 20-minute break before the return journey to Chiang Mai, which takes 75 minutes.

Throughout the day, participants can look forward to splashing at the stunning Buatong, or "sticky," waterfall and paddling a sit-on-top kayak on the tranquil Mae Ngat Dam lake.

Visitor Center Arrival

Visitors arrive at the serene visitor center, where they’re greeted by the friendly staff. This is the starting point of their immersive Chiang Mai adventure.

The center provides valuable information and insights about the region’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. Visitors can:

• Browse educational exhibits showcasing the local flora and fauna
• Speak with knowledgeable guides who offer tips and recommendations
• Use the restrooms and prepare for the upcoming activities
• Pick up any necessary gear or equipment for the excursion

After checking in, the group boards a long-tail boat for the scenic 20-minute ride to Mind Coffee, where the real fun begins.

Mind Coffee Boat Ride

A charming long-tail boat awaits the group, ready to ferry them across the tranquil waters to Mind Coffee. The 20-minute boat ride offers a serene escape, allowing the travelers to enjoy the natural beauty surrounding the lake. Once they reach Mind Coffee, guests can indulge in the local cuisine and refreshments, taking in the serene ambiance.

Duration	Location	Activities
20 minutes	Mae Ngat Dam Lake	Long-tail boat ride
1 hour	Mind Coffee	Free time, swimming, kayaking
1 hour	Local restaurant	Thai lunch

The group will have ample time to explore the area, splash in the cool waters, and embark on a short kayak excursion to further appreciate the scenic surroundings.

Water Activities

After the peaceful boat ride and rejuvenating break at Mind Coffee, it’s time to dive into the water activities. The tour offers an exciting opportunity to splash around the iconic Buatong waterfall, also known as the "sticky" waterfall.

Guests can also take a short paddle in a sit-on-top kayak to explore the scenic Mae Ngat Dam lake. Plus, the tour includes:

• Swimming in the refreshing waters
• Kayaking to discover the lake’s hidden gems
• Enjoying a delicious Thai lunch at a floating cottage
• Relishing the tranquility of the natural surroundings

These water-based activities promise an unforgettable experience, allowing participants to enjoy the beauty of Chiang Mai’s stunning natural landscapes.

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Local Thai Lunch

The tour’s delectable Thai lunch is served at a floating cottage, allowing guests to savor authentic local cuisine while immersed in the tranquil natural surroundings. Guests can expect a selection of Thai favorites, including fragrant curries, freshly-steamed jasmine rice, and a variety of flavorful stir-fried dishes.

The menu features seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms, ensuring the highest quality and freshness. Diners can complement their meal with refreshing tropical fruits and chilled bottled water. This relaxing lunch break provides a perfect opportunity to recharge and reflect on the morning’s adventures before the return journey to Chiang Mai.

Le Cocotier Resort

Following a brief 20-minute break, the tour proceeds to the idyllic Le Cocotier Resort, nestled along the serene banks of the Mae Ngat Dam lake. This picturesque resort offers a tranquil respite from the day’s adventures.

Guests can enjoy:

• Strolling through the lush tropical gardens
• Relaxing on the private beach area
• Admiring the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains
• Exploring the resort’s charming cottages and amenities

After this peaceful interlude, the tour continues with the return journey to Chiang Mai, providing a well-rounded experience of the region’s natural beauty and cultural treasures.

Chiang Mai Return

With the tranquil respite at Le Cocotier Resort now complete, the tour group makes its way back to Chiang Mai, covering the 75-minute journey through the scenic countryside.

Along the way, they admire the lush greenery, rolling hills, and quaint villages that dot the landscape. The comfortable private vehicle provides a smooth ride, allowing the group to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.

As they near Chiang Mai, the bustling energy of the city begins to build, signaling the end of their immersive tour. Looking back, the group feels a renewed appreciation for the natural beauty and cultural richness of this enchanting region.

Tour Inclusions and Restrictions

As part of the comprehensive Chiang Mai tour package, the inclusions provide travelers with a well-rounded experience. The tour includes private transportation, an English-speaking guide, a Thai lunch and seasonal fruits, as well as the use of kayaks, mountain bikes, helmets, paddles, and life jackets. Plus, the National Park entrance fees and bottled water are covered.

However, the tour does have some restrictions. It isn’t suitable for non-swimmers or those with a low fitness level. On top of that, large bags or luggage aren’t allowed on the tour. These restrictions are in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Kayak or Life Jacket?

No, participants can’t bring their own kayak or life jacket on this tour. The tour provider includes the use of all necessary equipment, including kayaks and life jackets, as part of the package to ensure safety and consistency for all guests.

Is There a Minimum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour has no minimum group size, as it’s a private tour. Participants can book the tour for themselves or a small group without needing to meet a minimum number of people.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration or Customize the Itinerary?

Yes, the tour can be extended or customized. Travelers can coordinate with the tour provider to adjust the itinerary and duration based on their preferences and needs. Additional activities or stops may be added for a personalized experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Special Requirements for Participants?

There are no age restrictions, but participants must be capable swimmers. Guests with mobility issues or medical conditions may need to check with the tour operator. Special requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.

Can I Arrange for a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Lunch Option?

Yes, the tour can accommodate vegetarian or gluten-free lunch options. Travelers simply need to inform the tour provider of any dietary requirements when booking, and the provider will arrange a suitable meal.

Recap

A day trip from Chiang Mai to the region’s natural wonders provides an exhilarating adventure. Visitors can enjoy a scenic boat ride, swim, and kayak at Mind Coffee, followed by a hearty Thai lunch. The iconic Buatong waterfall and tranquil Mae Ngat Dam Lake add to the serene ambiance. Optionally, guests can visit the idyllic Le Cocotier Resort before returning to Chiang Mai, refreshed and inspired by the natural beauty of the area.

You can check if your dates are available here: