Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Krabi

Your nine nights in Thailand begins with your arrival into Bangkok’s airport, with a seamless experienced ensured as your guide will wait for you just outside the Customs area. You’ll be assisted with your luggage and take private transfer to your accommodation in the capital city. Look forward to Thailand’s famous hospitality as you check into your hotel and get settled into your luxurious room. You might want to relax and enjoy the facilities or get out and stretch your legs after the long flight, exploring the nearby streets before returning for a fine delicious Thai meal.

You’ll get an in-depth look at this city of contrasts with its hip sky bars, magnificent palaces and Buddhist temples, starting at Wat Suthat in the historic center. Arriving early, you’ll be able to witness the melodic chanting of the monks. Head to Wat Pho, best known for its huge reclining Buddha, before visiting the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Kingdom’s most revered shrine and Grand Palace next door. Travel by water taxi to the last stop, Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, and then enjoy a gourmet lunch, experiencing the lively atmosphere along the Chao River before returning to your hotel.

Private transfer will bring you back to the airport this morning for your direct flight to Chiang Mai in northern Thailand. This ancient capital was founded in the 13^th-century and offers a rich history and plenty of culture to explore. Check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, perhaps visiting the Chiang Mai National Museum, the Tribal Museum or Chiang Mai City Arts and Culture Center. If you want to get more active, head to Doi Inthanon National Park nearby, or if you’re in need of relaxation, enjoy a massage in one of the city’s many massage parlours.

Embark on a private tour, starting with a visit to the world’s first elephant hospital. You’ll meet the elephants who are receiving rehabilitative care as long-term patients, recovering from injuries sustained in the wild or in the logging trade. Afterwards, stop at Kaad Thung Kwain Market to browse the famed Lampang ceramics. Continue to Temple Wat Phra That Lampang Luang where horse-drawn carriages are still used as public transport before enjoying lunch at a restaurant along the river. You’ll see an important Buddhist pilgrimage site, the magnificent temple complex of Wat Phra That Hariphunchai before returning, and if time allows, Baan Tawai village too.

Rise early this morning – the reward makes it worth the early wakeup call, soaring over Chiang Mail in a hot-air balloon. You’ll be picked up at your accommodation before sunrise and driven to the launch site. Once there, enjoy a cup of coffee while the balloon is inflated. Lift off as the sun begins to rise, floating over the Mae Ping Valley enjoying a spectacular panoramic view of the terraced rice paddies, gorgeous temples, and mountains. After touching down, feast on a champagne breakfast and enjoy the rest of the day to yourself – we suggest indulging in spa treatments at your hotel.

After three unforgettable nights in Chiang Mail you’ll return to the airport via private transfer to catch your next flight to Krabi. Located on the west coast of southern Thailand, it’s known for its dense mangrove forests and craggy sheer limestone cliffs, with over 100 offshore islands. The ideal place to relax, unspoiled white sandy beaches stretch for miles, framed by stunning turquoise waters. In the rainforest, natural hot springs provide a perfect spot to soak away every last inch of stress. Upon your arrival, private transfer will bring you to your hotel, with the rest of the day enjoyed at your leisure.

An exciting day trip awaits to one of the world’s most spectacular islands, Phi Phi. A coach will pick you up at your hotel for transfer to Nopparatthara Pier where you’ll hop on a speedboat for a cruise that visits Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, Hin Phae and Pileh Cove. You’ll have lots of great photo-ops while being able to take advantage of swimming and snorkelling too. Enjoy a buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don Island at a local eatery and then, for the final stop you’ll enjoy Bamboo Island’s gorgeous white sandy beaches before making the return to Krabi.

Today is yours to enjoy, immersing yourself in Krabi’s extraordinary beauty. While you can do as you wish, we have a few suggestions to help. You might take a hike through the jungle to Dragon Crest Mountain with the scenic trail passing waterfalls and bringing opportunities to spot wildlife like macaque monkeys and monitor lizards, leading to a breathtaking view at the top. If you want to relax, lounge on the white sands that stretch along the Andaman Sea, enjoy pampering spa treatments or hangout at your hotel pool. There may be unique programs to take part in like Batik painting too.

On your final full day in Thailand, take private transfer to the airport for a direct flight to Bangkok. Once, head to your hotel in the capital city by private transfer. A tour of Chinatown and its delicious flavors is on the agenda this afternoon, strolling the alleyways, immersed in the fragrance of exotic herbs and the sights of colourful fabrics and neon lights. Enjoy a drink at a local rooftop bar, complete with a sunset view, and then hop on a tuk tuk to sample a variety Chinese dishes with a unique Thai spin, with your guide helping you to navigate it all.

After exploring Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi and more, its time to get ready for your return flight home. After breakfast and checking out of your hotel, you’ll be met by your driver for private transfer to Bangkok’s airport. While it’s never easy to leave, you’re sure to have lots of wonderful memories and photos to bring back with you.