Chiang Mai : Thep Sadet & Coffee Plantation Full Day Hiking

If you’re seeking a day of fresh mountain air, lush scenery, and a taste of authentic Thai coffee, this full-day hike through Thep Sadet offers just that. While it’s not for absolute beginners, anyone with a decent fitness level will find this trek both challenging and rewarding. We love the combination of natural beauty, culture, and the chance to enjoy panoramic views that stretch across the mountains.

However, it’s worth noting that parts of the trail are steep and uneven, so a good pair of hiking shoes and some stamina are necessary. This tour is best suited for active travelers ready to embrace a physical challenge while soaking in some of Chiang Mai’s most scenic landscapes. If you’re after an authentic experience that combines nature, local life, and excellent coffee, this is a fantastic pick.

Key Points

• Moderate 12 km trail suitable for those with a reasonable fitness level
• Authentic coffee experience cultivated for over 45 years
• Stunning 360° mountain views from the peak at 1,800 meters
• Diverse scenery including forests, waterfalls, and rocky cliffs
• Local village life in Mae Ton offers an authentic cultural glimpse
• Guided small group ensures personalized attention and insights

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Mountain Trek in Chiang Mai

This tour offers a solid balance of adventure, nature, and cultural discovery, perfect for those who want more than just a sightseeing trip. Starting from Chiang Mai, you’re picked up and driven about 1.5 hours to the Thep Sadet sub-district in Doi Saket, a quiet, natural part of the province away from the city’s hustle.

The day begins with a 3-hour hike through coffee plantations and lush forests. These coffee gardens have been cultivated by local villagers since around 1980, making them a true family enterprise. As you wander through the plantations, you’ll see how Arabica beans are grown at elevations between 1,100 and 1,600 meters — a climate ideal for producing high-quality coffee. Reviewers mention the guides are very knowledgeable, sharing insights into the cultivation process and local life, which adds depth to the experience.

The trail then climbs to a peak at approximately 1,800 meters, where an open rocky summit provides a stunning 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains. Here, you’ll find a stupa and Buddha statue, adding a peaceful, spiritual element to your achievement. One reviewer from Germany, Sophie, called the view “great,” emphasizing how the climb was challenging but ultimately worth it.

The Diverse Trail Experience

The trek is designed as a loop, covering a total of 12 kilometers over roughly 6-7 hours, with a mix of terrain and scenery. The first part takes you through coffee gardens, dense forests, and rocky cliffs, with some sections steep and uneven. Expect to encounter streams and waterfalls, which add a refreshing touch and break up the hike.

Descending the mountain, you’ll pass through forested hills, gullies, and waterfalls, often spotting local villagers harvesting coffee cherries during the harvest season — a true slice of rural life. The trail winds into Mae Ton Village, where you can observe daily life, enjoy the relaxed pace, and sample the unique taste of Thepsadet Coffee, cultivated right here for over four decades.

One French reviewer, Oliver, noted how the trek matched his fitness level: “The trek is fairly challenging but perfect for my level, which is relatively fit and active,” he said, appreciating the pace and the attentive care from guides Little and Kate.

The Coffee Experience & Cultural Touches

The core of this tour is the authentic Thepsadet Coffee plantation visit. You’ll spend around 30 minutes here tasting freshly brewed coffee and learning about its cultivation. As the coffee is grown at high elevations, it benefits from the cool climate, making for a rich, flavorful brew. The guides do a good job of explaining the history and process, enriching the tasting experience.

Reviews praise the guides for being funny, kind, and knowledgeable, making the visit both informative and enjoyable. This aspect of the tour turns what could be just a coffee tasting into a memorable cultural experience.

Practical Details & What to Expect

The tour costs $52 per person, which we find to be quite reasonable considering the full-day experience of hiking, cultural insights, and coffee tasting. The small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures a more personalized, relaxed experience.

The activity is rated moderate in difficulty, with an elevation gain of 776 meters and steep sections that challenge your stamina. The itinerary includes a lunch break and detailed information about what to bring — comfortable clothes, sturdy hiking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera are essentials.

The tour begins with a pickup from your accommodation, and you’ll be back in Chiang Mai after a full day of exploration. The flexible cancellation policy allows you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind.

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What the Experience Tells You

From the reviews and description, it’s clear that the guides are a highlight, making the hike accessible and engaging. Sophie appreciated the humor and kindness of her guide, while Oliver praised how well they took care of him, noting the pace was faster than expected but manageable for a fit individual.

The diversity of scenery keeps the day interesting — from lush coffee plantations and forests to rocky peaks and waterfalls. The views from the summit are described as “great,” and the peaceful village life at the end offers a rewarding sense of connection to the local community.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits active travelers who enjoy nature, physical activity, and authentic cultural encounters. It’s perfect for those who appreciate stunning vistas and are comfortable with moderate to challenging hikes. Coffee lovers will especially enjoy the insight into local cultivation and tasting.

Given the emphasis on natural beauty and outdoor adventure, it’s an excellent choice for adventure-seeking couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.

The Sum Up

This full-day trek through Thep Sadet and Mae Ton Village offers a well-rounded experience that combines nature, culture, and coffee. You’ll love the variety of landscapes, the knowledgeable guides, and the breathtaking views from the mountain’s peak. The authentic coffee tasting and rural village visit add meaningful cultural depth, making this more than just a hike.

While it’s not suitable for complete beginners or those with mobility issues, active travelers looking for a fulfilling outdoor adventure will find this a worthwhile outing. The moderate price reflects the quality of experience, guide expertise, and the chance to connect deeply with local life and natural beauty.

For anyone craving a physically engaging, scenic, and authentic day in Chiang Mai’s countryside, this tour checks all boxes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
No, it’s rated as moderate difficulty with steep, uneven terrain. A good level of fitness is recommended.

How long is the hike?
The entire loop covers approximately 12 kilometers and takes about 6-7 hours, including breaks and sightseeing.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, sunglasses, comfortable clothes, sturdy hiking shoes, camera, snacks, and personal medication.

Can I participate during the coffee harvest season?
Yes, during December to February, you might see local villagers handpicking coffee cherries along the trail.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup from your hotel or accommodation in Chiang Mai is provided, and the group size is limited to 8 for a morepersonal experience.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While the tour operates year-round, the cool months from December to February offer the most comfortable weather and the coffee harvest.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, it’s not suitable for children under 13, wheelchair users, or people over 70.

How challenging is the trail?
It involves some steep and uneven sections, with an elevation gain of about 776 meters, so it’s best for those with a moderate fitness level.

What makes the views from the summit special?
You get a panoramic 360° view of the mountain range, complemented by a peaceful stupa and Buddha statue.

Can I buy coffee at the plantation?
Typically, yes. You can sample and purchase Thepsadet Coffee directly from the plantation shop, supporting local growers.

Embark on this adventure if you’re eager to combine physical activity with culture and natural beauty. It’s a rewarding way to see Chiang Mai’s countryside from a different perspective.

You can check availability for your dates here: