Chiang Mai: Dan Tewada Land, Bamboo Rafting & Waterfall Tour

This comprehensive tour in Chiang Mai offers a balance of serene scenery, playful adventure, and cultural charm. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it’s a well-rounded experience for those craving authentic Thai nature combined with a touch of soft adventure.

What makes it stand out? First, the stunning Bua Tong Sticky Waterfalls, where you can walk and climb without slipping—thanks to their mineral-rich limestone surface. Second, the peaceful bamboo rafting along Mae Taeng River, a relaxing way to see lush landscapes and elephants in their natural habitat. Third, the beautiful Dantewada Park, often called the “Land of Angels,” offers a peaceful retreat with artful angel statues and vibrant gardens.

A potential drawback? It’s a long day with about 80 minutes of travel time between stops, so those with limited mobility or a preference for shorter excursions might find it tiring. Still, for most, the pace allows enough breathing room to enjoy each stop.

This trip is best suited for travelers who love nature, gentle adventure, and cultural sights. It balances scenic beauty with authentic experiences and offers some fun physical activities, making it a fantastic choice for those looking for a well-curated day out.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary with nature, culture, and relaxation
• Excellent guides who are knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive
• Unique natural wonders like the Sticky Waterfalls and Angel Park
• Peaceful bamboo rafting with elephants and lush scenery
• Great value considering the variety of experiences and included lunch
• Long but comfortable transport with scenic drives

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Full-Day Experience in Chiang Mai

An Introduction to the Tour

This 8-hour adventure combines some of Chiang Mai’s best natural spots with cultural highlights. The tour is operated by N&M TRAVEL LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, renowned for their well-organized trips and friendly guides. The experience is designed to blend light physical activity with moments of calm, perfect for travelers who want a bit of everything.

The Pickup and Travel

You’ll be picked up from your hotel around 8:00-8:30 am, with a comfortable van ride that lasts roughly 1.5 hours to the first destination. The journey itself offers a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery, with many reviewers noting the drives are smooth and scenic. Group size tends to be manageable, and reviewers praise the transport as highly rated and comfortable, making the long drives less burdensome.

Dantewada Park: Land of Angels

Your first stop is Dantewada Park, a peaceful garden filled with angel statues and colorful flowers. Reviewers often mention how beautiful and tranquil this place feels, almost like stepping into a fairy tale. It’s a photo-worthy spot with plenty of scenic views of the surrounding mountains, and you’ll get about an hour here to walk around, take pictures, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

One guest noted that “you’re surrounded by nature and local art,” which makes it more than just a garden—it’s a small cultural oasis. It’s perfect for those looking to start their day with calming scenery and some good photo ops.

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Bua Tong Sticky Waterfalls — A Natural Marvel

The highlight for many is the Bua Tong Waterfalls, often called the “Sticky Waterfalls” because of their unique mineral-rich limestone surface. Thanks to this, visitors can walk, climb, and scramble up the waterfalls without slipping—an experience many compare to a giant natural playground.

Reviewer quotes reveal how much fun this part is: “you actually walk and climb up them, and it’s suitable for pretty much everyone,” adding that the waterfalls are a great fun and physically engaging experience. You’ll spend roughly an hour here, exploring the waterfalls, capturing photos, and enjoying the cool, crystal-clear water.

Adjacent to the waterfalls is the Seven Colors Spring, a sacred spot that adds a spiritual layer to the visit. The waterfalls tend to get busy later in the day, but early visits let you enjoy the scenery before crowds arrive.

Bamboo Rafting on Mae Taeng River

Post-waterfalls, it’s time for bamboo rafting, a peaceful and scenic float along the Mae Taeng River. The trip lasts around 40 minutes, offering moments of tranquility while passing lush forests, rice paddies, and even elephant sanctuaries.

Guests rave about the relaxing pace and the chance to see elephants bathing nearby. One reviewer mentioned that they were able to steer the raft and even got some great photos of elephants during their journey. It’s a smooth, calming ride that balances nature’s sights with gentle adventure.

Lunch at Elephant Terrace Restaurant

After the bamboo rafting, you’ll head to the Elephant Terrace Restaurant for a delicious Thai meal. Many mention the variety of tasty dishes, including classic pad Thai, rice, fried chicken, and curries, with vegetarian options. The quality of the food often impresses guests, and some say it’s “really good value for the price”.

The restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere and good food make it a highlight, especially after the activity-filled morning.

Dantewada Land: Art, Nature, and Shopping

Next, the tour visits Dantewada Land, a charming spot with flower gardens, art displays, and gift shops. Visitors often remark on how “beautiful” this place is, with some calling it “a little hidden gem.” It’s a calm spot to walk, browse local crafts, or just soak in the scenic views.

It’s also a great place to pick up souvenirs, as many reviewers note that the shopping here is worth a browse.

Wrapping Up and Return

The final leg of the trip is an 80-minute drive back to Chiang Mai, giving you time to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights. The tour typically ends around 4:00 pm, leaving you with lasting memories of a diverse, well-paced adventure.

Real Experiences and Authentic Insights

Reviewers consistently praise the guides, with “Kawee” and “T” often mentioned for their friendly, funny, and informative manner. Many say they appreciated how guides shared local stories and kept things engaging without rushing through each stop.

One guest shared that “Kawee is an excellent guide,” and another noted how “he greeted everyone with a smile and was full of jokes,” making the long drives enjoyable.

The scenery at each location garners high praise, especially at the waterfalls and Dantewada Park, where the views are described as “breathtaking” and “beautifully peaceful.” The elephants during bamboo rafting are also a highlight, with reviewers mentioning they often saw elephants bathing or wandering nearby, adding a genuine wildlife experience.

Transport and Timing

The transportation is generally praised for being comfortable and efficient, with the long drives being manageable thanks to scenic views and friendly guides. The itinerary is carefully designed to give you ample time at each stop—not feeling rushed, which several guests appreciated.

Food and Value

The included lunch is seen as very good value, with many guests commenting on the variety and tastiness of the Thai dishes. Some mentioned that they would have liked a bit more time at certain locations, but overall, the schedule strikes a good balance.

Suitable for Whom?

This tour suits adventurous travelers who enjoy nature and cultural sights, as well as those seeking a relaxing river escape. Families with kids, couples, and solo travelers alike find it engaging, thanks to the manageable pace and friendly guides.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves combining scenic beauty with gentle adventure, this trip hits the mark. The opportunity to walk on waterfalls, float past elephants, and stroll through artful gardens creates a rich, memorable day. It’s especially appealing for travelers who value authentic experiences over tourist traps and enjoy the company of knowledgeable guides.

The included activities, good food, and stunning scenery make it great value for money, especially considering the variety packed into one day. Whether you’re a nature lover, culture seeker, or just looking for a relaxing escape from city life, this tour offers a balanced mix designed to leave you with lasting memories.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that the waterfalls and bamboo rafting are appropriate for all ages, and the water activities are generally safe and fun.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, from around 8:00 am pickup to return to Chiang Mai in the late afternoon.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, flip-flops, and cash are recommended to enjoy the activities fully.

Are the activities physically demanding?
The waterfalls involve walking and climbing but are described as suitable for most people. Bamboo rafting is relaxed and gentle.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, the lunch offers a variety of Thai dishes, including options for vegetarians and vegans.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is generally from your hotel lobby or front door.

How many people are in each group?
While the exact size isn’t specified, reviews suggest it’s a well-managed group, often with personalized attention from guides.

Is the tour good value for money?
Considering the variety of activities, quality of food, transportation, and guides, many guests find it excellent value.

What’s the main highlight?
Most agree that climbing the sticky waterfalls and bamboo rafting with elephants are the standout moments, creating lasting memories.

This tour combines the best of Chiang Mai’s natural beauty, cultural spots, and gentle adventures—all with friendly guides and good value. If you’re after a day filled with scenic wonders and authentic Thai experiences, it’s an option worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: