Chiangmai : Sticky waterfalls,Bamboo rafting,Dantewada cafe

When it comes to exploring Chiang Mai, many travelers stick to temples and night markets. But for those craving something more adventurous and off-the-beaten-path, a day tour combining artificial waterfalls, tranquil bamboo rafting, and the unique sticky waterfalls offers a fantastic way to connect with nature and local scenery—without the crowds. Based on numerous delighted reviews and a thoughtfully curated itinerary, this experience promises authentic fun, stunning photos, and a chance to relax amidst beautiful landscapes.

What we love about this tour? First, the variety—each stop is a different kind of experience. Second, the expert guides who make every activity informative and safe. Third, the delicious local lunch overlooking elephants (yes, elephants!) that adds to the overall value. One thing to consider is the limited activity window at Dantewada, which might feel short if you’re eager for more time. Still, this tour suits active travelers looking for a well-rounded day of sightseeing, adventure, and photo opportunities.

Key Points

• Diverse activities from waterfalls to bamboo rafting provide a full-day adventure.
• Expert guides ensure safety and add fascinating local insights.
• Beautiful scenery and wildlife encounters, especially elephants, enhance the experience.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay later offer peace of mind.
• Small group sizes (up to 8) foster a more personalized experience.
• Great value considering the included activities, transportation, and guide services.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic, Well-Paced Day in Chiang Mai

This tour is an excellent choice for those who want to explore beyond Chiang Mai’s city limits without feeling rushed. It starts with a convenient pick-up from CoolMuang Coffee or a nearby location, offering a comfortable journey in a clean, well-driven vehicle. Our guides, such as Minty, May, or Amy—mentioned repeatedly in reviews—bring warmth, knowledge, and a genuine enthusiasm that makes every part of the trip memorable.

The first stop at Dantewada’s Land of Angels is a highlight. These are man-made waterfalls designed to mimic natural cascades, but what makes them special is how realistic they look and the lush gardens surrounding them. Many reviewers mention how great the photo opportunities are here: “Minty took so many beautiful photos and knew the best spots,” said a traveler. The café offers a lovely setting for a quick coffee break, and the landscape makes it a peaceful start to the day.

The Scenic Bamboo Rafting Experience

Next, you’ll float along the Mae Taeng River on bamboo rafts—an activity that many describe as serene and peaceful. We loved the way bamboo rafting gives you a slow, gentle ride through the landscape—no rush, just the calming sounds of flowing water and birdcalls. Several reviews highlight how guides like May or Minty are attentive, helping with safety gear and offering insights about the environment.

The bamboo raft experience is about the calm of nature. Many travelers mention how this activity, which resembles paddleboarding but on bamboo, offers the perfect chance to unwind. It’s also family-friendly (as long as you’re comfortable with water and mobility), making it suitable for those seeking a peaceful respite from city life.

The Unique Sticky Waterfalls: Fun and Adventure

One of the most talked-about parts of this tour is the Bua Tong Sticky Waterfalls. Unlike natural waterfalls, these limestone falls are so “sticky” that climbing up and down them becomes a fun challenge—even for those who usually shy away from physical activity. Visitors appreciate that the surface is textured enough for good grip, making it safe and accessible.

As one reviewer put it, “climb up and around the falls with a good grip limestone surface,” which adds an element of adventure. The experience is fun for all ages, and many mention how they appreciated the opportunity to cool down and splash around. It’s a great way to beat the heat while getting some exercise and snapping fantastic photos.

The Highlight: Scenic Lunch with Elephants

What elevates this tour for many travelers is the included lunch overlooking elephants. The setting provides a chance to observe these gentle giants in their habitat while enjoying authentic Thai food. Several reviews praise the quality of the meal and the stunning views: “Lunch was lovely, with a gorgeous view of elephants,” mentions a traveler. The food is thoughtfully prepared, and the timing allows for a relaxed meal before heading to the next activity.

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Practical Details and What to Expect

This 8-hour tour is ideal for those who want a full day of varied experiences without the hassle of planning multiple activities. The small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures personalized attention, and the English-speaking guides help make every moment informative and fun.

Transportation is highly rated, with 98% of reviewers giving it a perfect score. Pick-up options from the old city or nearby locations make it convenient. The schedule is flexible, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, making it adaptable to changing plans.

What to bring? Sunscreen, water shoes, swimwear, towel, change of clothes, sunglasses, sun hat, waterproof bag, and quick-dry clothing are recommended. The tour has some restrictions, such as no pets, large luggage, drones, alcohol, or drugs, and it’s not suitable for very young children, wheelchair users, or seniors over 95.

The guides—like Minty, May, or Amy—stand out for their friendliness, attentiveness, and excellent photo skills. As one reviewer said, “Minty was the best guide ever—friendly, accommodating, and took many photos for us.”

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re active, love nature, and enjoy sharing experiences with a small group, this day trip offers a great balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural insights. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting to see scenic spots while having fun. It’s also a fantastic choice if you want to avoid large crowds and prefer guided tours with personable, knowledgeable guides.

This tour may not suit those with mobility issues or who prefer a more relaxed, less active day. Weather can influence some activities—bamboo rafting can be canceled in bad weather, but refunds are straightforward.

The Sum Up

This tour provides excellent value for a well-rounded day exploring Chiang Mai’s landscapes, wildlife, and waterfalls. The combination of scenic beauty, fun activities, and knowledgeable guides makes it ideal for travelers seeking authentic experiences that go beyond the typical sightseeing.

The activities are carefully curated to ensure safety and enjoyment, and the small group size fosters a friendly, personalized atmosphere. Whether you’re marveling at the intricacies of the sticky waterfalls or drifting peacefully on bamboo rafts, you’re sure to leave with memorable photos and stories to share.

For those wanting a full, adventure-packed day with a touch of cultural charm—plus opportunities to relax in beautiful surroundings—this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for active travelers eager to explore Chiang Mai’s natural beauty while enjoying tasty Thai cuisine and friendly guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes highly-rated transport with pick-up options from the old city or nearby places.

What should I bring? Pack sunscreen, swimwear, water shoes, towel, change of clothes, sunglasses, sun hat, waterproof bag, and quick-dry clothing.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children? It’s best for those over 1 year old, but not suitable for babies under 1 year or wheelchair users.

How long does the tour last? The full experience takes approximately 8 hours, with activities scheduled to keep the day engaging but manageable.

What are the guides like? Guides like Minty and May are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and helpfulness—taking photos and ensuring everyone feels safe.

Will I have free time? The schedule is well-paced, with enough time at each location for photos and exploration, but activities are generally structured within the 8-hour window.

This day tour in Chiang Mai truly offers a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural charm. Whether you’re climbing sticky waterfalls, drifting on bamboo rafts, or enjoying a scenic lunch overlooking elephants, it’s a memorable way to see a different side of Thailand.

You can check availability for your dates here: