Chiang Mai Vacations 2025/26

The Jewel of Northern Thailand

Chiang Mai blends ancient temples, mountain adventures, and warm northern charm into one unforgettable escape.

Set against a backdrop of forested hills and misty peaks, Chiang Mai is northern Thailand’s cultural heart—a city where centuries-old temples meet night bazaars, and jungle treks end with bowls of steaming Khao Soi. It’s the kind of place that moves at a gentler pace but still packs a punch when it comes to things to see, do, and experience.

With over 300 temples scattered across the city and its surrounds, there’s no shortage of spiritual splendour. Wat Phra Singh is a beautiful example of classic Lanna architecture, while Wat Chedi Luang’s crumbling pagoda stands as a proud reminder of the city’s deep-rooted heritage. For a serene, off-the-beaten-path visit, Wat Phan Tao is all golden teak and timeless rituals.

Chiang Mai’s cultural calendar is as impressive as its temples. Visit in November to catch the twin spectacles of Loy Krathong and Yi Peng, when lanterns float on rivers and rise into the sky in a glowing tribute to renewal and reflection. Throughout the year, you’ll also find traditional crafts, dance performances, and workshops that bring the region’s rich artistry to life.

Nature lovers are in for a treat too. From hiking in Doi Inthanon National Park—home to Thailand’s highest peak—to bamboo rafting and ziplining through jungle canopies, there’s adventure waiting just beyond the city limits. For something slower, the Mae Sa Valley’s terraced rice fields offer picture-perfect vistas and peaceful days.

Chiang Mai is also known for its ethical elephant sanctuaries, where you can learn about and interact with these gentle giants in responsible, conservation-led settings.

The food scene is one of Thailand’s best. Tuck into northern classics like Khao Soi, Sai Oua (spiced sausage), and Khanom Krok (coconut pancakes) at buzzing night markets, or dive into the city’s blossoming vegan and vegetarian options.

If it’s wellness you’re after, you’re in the right place. Traditional Thai massage studios, yoga shalas, and countryside retreats make it easy to find your moment of calm.

But perhaps what really sets Chiang Mai apart is the sense of connection—whether it’s the ease of conversations with friendly locals, the gentle energy of a temple at dusk, or the shared joy of a lantern released into the sky. It’s a city that invites you to slow down, look closer, and leave changed.

Our favourite Chiang Mai accommodation

Best places to stay in Chiang Mai

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137 Pillar house Hotel swimmingpool Chiang Mai

Where timeless elegance meets eco-conscious luxury, creating an unforgettable sanctuary in the heart of Chiang Mai

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Where to go in Thailand

Top places to visit in Thailand

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Wat Arun sunrise with riverboat Bangkok Thailand Canva Pro

Royal Pavillion Chiang Mai Thailand Canva Pro

Elizabeth Spells

I have just returned from the most amazing trip to Tanzania, booked with Far & Wild. Everything went so smoothly from the first time I spoke with them. The planning was great, the itinerary was perfect for us, and the lodges were amazing. We spent 10 nights with an amazing guide, travelling through Northern Tanzania and even got to see the migration, which was a lifetime ambition of mine. This wasn't our first safari, so we were nervous as to how it would compare, but it was spot on. We're particularly grateful that she suggested a private 'bush lunch' in the Ngorongoro Crater as the public picnic spot was very busy! I will certainly be using them again to book our next trip....we're thinking of a relaxing beach stay next time to get over the excitement of safari!

Sep 17, 2025

Orla Rhodes

Just back from another amazing F&W organised trip to Namibia with the family (8 adults). Having been there before, Alistair tailored our trip to include our favourite locations and added a new one for us, Okonjima Plains camp, which we loved.The quality of accommodation and guiding, activities, food and drinks was exceptional throughout. Although not inexpensive I felt it was good value for the level of luxury we had. Kwessi Dunes, Shipwreck lodge, Ongava, Okonjima with pit stops Windhoek (city tour recommended ), Swakopmund (Sandwich Harbour and Walvis Bay tour) and Grootberg lodge (best sundowner drive )

Jul 31, 2024

Arnhild Schia

We had a wonderful trip to São Tomé and Príncipe - a small island nation in the Gulf of Guinea with paradise (almost empty) beaches and jungle forest. It was all well organised by Far and Wild and we stayed at Omali lodge at Sao Tome, then on Roca Sundy, and Sunday Praia at Principe - a great combination of different types of resorts/hotels. Omali is close to Sao Tome town with its colonial buildings, markets, hustle and bustle. Roca Sunday gives an old plantation experience and Sundy Praia a luxury beach experience. Very friendly (from time to time a bit slow) service, great fresh food, specifically if you like fish/seafood, vegetables and fruits (almost all sourced locally). Nice temperature between 23 and 30 degrees Celsius, nice swimming conditions. We really recommend this for those who want to experience a pristine destination with few other tourists and friendly and welcoming people. The islands also feel (and I believe are) very safe. At Principe, there are no dangerous animals, snakes or whatever, and it was great to be able to hike in the jungle without being very conscious of where to put your hands and feet. Go before everyone else does!

Jul 3, 2024

Henri Papenfus

Back home again, basking in the joys of a superb safari. Every aspect you arranged for us, including linking up with Mack Air and Wild Horizons locally to transport us. The choice of camps, Camp Hwange in Zimbabwe and Muchenenje Safari Lodge in Botswana, was spot on and exactly what we had hoped for - ideally situated, comfortable, in good surroundings, and with excellent wildlife on the doorstep and throughout the wider country. The service staff in each looked after us very well, catering was excellent, and the game guides were professional, knowledgeable and helpful. The weather was, as usual for that part of the world, also good at the time of our visit. Blue skies and stunning sunsets. Warm but not too hot during the day, although quite cold at sunrise when viewing game. The viewing started. You made us happy, and we recommend you to similar safari enthusiasts with confidence.

Jun 28, 2024

Far and Wild went above and beyond to make sure my trip to Zambia was special. I would definitely recommend them and their services to anyone wanting to travel to Africa.

Jun 5, 2024

Tiny

Lovely holiday at the amazing Almanara on Galu beach, a beach like no other. Far and Wild excelled themselves from beginning to end of our holiday in beautiful Kenya.... What a country!,

Jun 5, 2024

Stodge

Wow! These guys are amazing. Can’t recommend them highly enough. Friendly AND efficient! Sorted out our trip (last minute and lots of different family member needs, sorry!) in record time and everything worked like clockwork. Trip of a lifetime to the Masai Mara. Will be back (and use F&W again!)!

Jun 5, 2024

Fiona C

It was a dreamy holiday on the Kenyan Coast - Far and Wild, their efficiency and professionalism allowed us to relax and be the happiest family alive !! We cannot fault them, their care and understanding of what we wanted from a holiday ensured we had the most memorable trip. We will be booking with them again for sure!

Jun 5, 2024