13 Days Motorcycle Tour from Chiang Mai to Phuket Island

Planning an adventure that combines scenic rides, cultural discoveries, and beach relaxation? This 13-day motorcycle journey from Chiang Mai to Phuket offers a comprehensive way to explore Thailand’s best-kept secrets. With experienced guides, top-notch bikes, and thoughtfully selected accommodations, this tour promises an authentic and exhilarating experience.

What I love about this trip? First, the variety — from riding through lush rice fields and historic sites to crossing borders and hopping islands, it’s packed with diversity. Second, the attention to safety and comfort, with well-maintained bikes, quality hotels, and support vehicles. Third, the genuine local experiences, like staying in Nakhon Sawan or visiting the hidden gems of Ranong. A possible drawback? The long riding days might be a stretch for absolute beginners, but seasoned riders will find it just right.

This tour suits those with a sense of adventure, a love for riding, and a curiosity for Thailand’s lesser-known corners. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, you’ll find plenty to love in this carefully curated journey.

Key Points

• Authentic experiences through visits to local temples, historical sites, and hidden towns
• Diverse scenery including mountains, rice fields, national parks, and island beaches
• Comfortable accommodations with quality hotels and resorts along the route
• Expert guides ensuring safety, local insights, and smooth logistics
• Balance of riding and leisure with plenty of free time to relax or explore
• Value for money considering the inclusive meals, support vehicles, and insurance

An Authentic Ride through Thailand’s Highlights

This tour offers more than just a motorcycle adventure; it’s a deep dive into Thailand’s rich tapestry of landscapes, history, and culture. From Chiang Mai’s mountains to Phuket’s beaches, every day is crafted to reveal something new and exciting.

Starting Point: Chiang Mai to Khun Tan

The journey kicks off with a familiarization ride heading south of Chiang Mai. You’ll enjoy a scenic, windy mountain road leading to Khun Tan, home to Thailand’s highest train station and its longest tunnel (1,300 meters). This first day sets the tone for the adventure—challenging enough to get your adrenaline going but manageable, with an approximate 7-hour ride. The highlight? Riding through lush forests and mountain vistas, with the chance to appreciate Thailand’s natural beauty from a top speed.

Exploring Sukhothai and Beyond

Day two takes you through vast rice fields toward Sukhothai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its ancient ruins. The relatively short ride of about four hours gives plenty of time to stroll through the historical park, where Buddha statues and crumbling temples tell stories of Thailand’s glorious past. Reviewers mention the well-organized itinerary and highlight the value of this culture.

Visiting Phichit and the Ho Chi Minh House

On Day three, the tour ventures further south to Phichit, known as the Land of Legends. Here, you’ll visit the Ho Chi Minh house, where the Vietnamese revolutionary leader lived in exile. This stop offers a fascinating glimpse into Southeast Asian history and the region’s interconnected stories. The day’s ride is about seven hours, but riders note the route is full of interesting sights, making the journey feel shorter.

Authentic Thailand in Nakhon Sawan

Day four features a visit to Nakhon Sawan, often overlooked by travelers. Highlights include Wat Tha Sung, a temple built in 1320 AD, and a hidden teak wood temple—both offering insight into Thailand’s spiritual life and craftsmanship. Reviews praise the day for its mix of cultural discovery and scenic riding, with the support of a professional guide ensuring smooth navigation.

Nature and History at Erawan National Park

Day five is a true sightseeing day, with a 200 km ride culminating at Erawan National Park. Expect to see the famous Sai Yok Yai waterfall and trek around Hellfire Pass, a site with poignant WWII history. Riders rave about the diverse scenery and the opportunity to cool off by the waterfalls, while noting that the ride combines natural beauty with a touch of adventure.

The River Kwai and Kanchanaburi

Day six introduces you to the River Kwai region, with stops at the iconic bridge and the giant Monkey Pod Tree. The ride through Kaeng Krachan Dam and national park offers lush vistas and a chance to appreciate Thailand’s wilderness. The support van becomes handy here, especially if you need a break or want to take photos.

Leisure in Hua Hin

Day seven is intentionally relaxed, giving riders a chance to unwind on Hua Hin’s famous beaches. Options include lounging poolside, shopping, or exploring cultural sites by bicycle. Guests mention this as a perfect breather in an otherwise active itinerary, with some optional activities available for those craving more sightseeing.

Coastal Scenery and Island Crossings

The subsequent days involve scenic coastal riding into Chumphon, crossing from the Gulf of Thailand into the Andaman Sea, and heading towards Ranong. Highlights include a visit to Wat Suwankhiri, a hilltop Myanmar temple, and the boat trip to Cocks Comb Island—an untouched jewel of Myanmar’s sea. Reviewers emphasize the unique opportunity to visit this emerald heart of Myanmar, making it a highlight for those interested in border-crossing adventures.

Discovering Krabi and Island Hopping

In Krabi, riders enjoy a spectacular ride past Swiss-like Grass Hills, then relax on Koh Poda Island. The optional island-hopping tour is a major attraction, allowing travelers to snorkel, swim, or simply soak up the sun on powder-white sands. The tour emphasizes leisure, and many mention the well-organized logistics and breathtaking scenery.

Final Destination: Phuket

The last leg takes you from Krabi to Phuket, featuring a charming ride along back roads to Phangan Bay and a cruise to James Bond Island. The finale combines scenic cruising with the chance to explore Phuket’s lively atmosphere—perfect for winding down and soaking in Thailand’s famous hospitality.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Expert Guides: Reviewers consistently praise guides like Noah for their professionalism and local knowledge. They clarify logistical questions, introduce intriguing sights, and make everyone feel safe and cared for throughout.

Well-Maintained Bikes: The bikes are described as in “tip top condition” and suitable for various terrains. Having reliable, comfortable bikes makes a huge difference on long rides and adds to the overall enjoyment.

Quality Accommodations: Staying in carefully chosen hotels and resorts ensures you get a good night’s sleep after busy days. Many guests appreciate the leisure facilities and the variety of local cuisines offered during breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Authentic Experiences: From visiting traditional temples and historical sites to exploring lesser-known towns like Nakhon Sawan and Ranong, this tour emphasizes genuine local encounters, making it more than just a motorcycle ride.

Inclusive Features: The package includes insurance, riding gear, support vehicles, and most meals, which adds significant value. The support van is especially helpful for carrying luggage or giving riders a break when needed.

Safety and Comfort: With third-party liability insurance and accident coverage up to $3,000 USD, along with helmets, jackets, and gloves, the tour prioritizes safety without sacrificing comfort.

Practical Considerations and Tips

The daily riding times typically range from 4 to 7 hours, which for seasoned riders, is manageable and allows ample time for sightseeing and relaxation. However, absolute beginners might find some days a bit demanding, especially when riding through mountainous or remote areas.

The tour’s inclusion of support vehicles and optional rest stops makes it flexible. If you’re concerned about long days, communicate with the guides beforehand to tailor your experience.

Pricing at $5,125 per person covers a comprehensive package—hotels, meals, bike rental, insurance, and guided excursions. Many reviewers find the value fair, given the carefully curated itinerary and high standards.

While alcohol isn’t included, the tour’s lively towns like Hua Hin and Phuket provide excellent nightlife options. Remember to travel with appropriate insurance for peace of mind, especially when riding in unfamiliar terrain.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This adventure suits those with riding experience who are eager to explore Thailand beyond typical tourist paths. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate culture, natural beauty, and a mix of active and leisure days. Solo travelers, couples, or groups of friends looking for a memorable, all-encompassing trip will find plenty to love here.

It’s less ideal for complete newbies or those seeking a purely relaxed holiday, given the long riding days and active schedule. But for everyone else, it’s an engaging, thoroughly enjoyable way to see Thailand from a fresh perspective.

The Sum Up

This 13-day motorcycle adventure from Chiang Mai to Phuket offers a fantastic balance of scenic riding, cultural discovery, and beach relaxation. The carefully planned itinerary ensures you see the country’s highlights while also uncovering hidden gems only locals know.

The guides’ expertise, quality of bikes, and well-chosen accommodations make the experience comfortable and safe, while the variety of stops keeps things exciting. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply the thrill of the open road, this tour delivers on all fronts.

Overall, it’s a superb choice for experienced riders looking to combine their love of motorcycles with authentic Thai experiences. The tour offers excellent value for its inclusive features and the memories you’ll carry home.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The $5,125 fee covers 12 overnight stays at quality hotels, motorcycle rental with unlimited mileage, insurance, riding gear, support van, most meals, and guided excursions.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While riders with some experience will be comfortable, long riding days and mountain terrains might challenge complete beginners. It’s best suited for those with decent riding skills.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast (12), lunch (10), and dinner (12), with water, soft drinks, and coffee/tea provided during meals.

What safety measures are in place?
The tour includes third-party liability insurance, motorcycle insurance with up to $1,000 USD deductible, and accident cover up to $3,000 USD. Helmets, jackets, gloves, and knee guards are supplied.

Can I participate if I’m traveling alone?
Absolutely. The group size is limited to 10 travelers, fostering a friendly atmosphere where solo travelers often bond quickly.

What are the main highlights of the itinerary?
Expect to see historical sites like Sukhothai, natural wonders like Erawan National Park, iconic bridges at Kanchanaburi, relaxing beaches in Hua Hin, boat trips to Cocks Comb Island, and ending in the lively Phuket.

Do I need visas or special permits?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality, but the tour price does not include visa fees. Check your home country’s rules before traveling.

This motorcycle tour through Thailand blends adventure, culture, and leisure, making it a memorable way to explore this vibrant country. Whether you’re seeking stunning vistas, cultural insights, or just a fun ride, this experience ticks many boxes.