Chiang Mai: Sticky Waterfall & Caves Tour w/ Treehouse Stay

Planning a trip to Chiang Mai and craving something more than just temples and markets? This two-day tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and a touch of luxury with an overnight in a unique treehouse. It’s designed for those who want to explore Thailand’s lush landscape, dive into hidden caves, and wake up surrounded by forest sounds and views.

We love the chance to stay in a treehouse in the middle of the jungle, the experience of climbing and bathing at Sticky Waterfalls, and the guide’s expertise that makes the adventure more engaging. The guided hike to a secret waterfall and the exploration of Chiang Dao Cave stand out as highlights.

On the flip side, some might find the price a little high for certain inclusions, and the lodging facilities at the treehouse are basic — no luxury hotel here, but that’s part of the charm.

This tour is best suited for travelers seeking authentic nature experiences, small group adventures, and those comfortable with a bit of physical activity. If you love discovering new terrains and enjoy staying in unusual accommodations, this experience will likely hit the spot.

Key Points

• Unique Overnight Stay: Sleep in a luxurious treehouse in the middle of the jungle with stunning forest views.
• Nature and Adventure: Includes a guided 7km jungle hike, bathing in Sticky Waterfalls, and exploring Chiang Dao Cave.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable local guides enhance the experience with insights and friendly service.
• Authentic Experiences: Enjoy a real immersion into Thailand’s natural beauty, away from tourist crowds.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines active exploration with relaxing moments like lunch on the terrace and optional Thai massage.
• Group Size: Limited to 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Genuine Look at the Chiang Mai: Sticky Waterfall & Caves Tour

The Overview: Nature, Adventure, and a Treehouse Twist

This two-day tour offers a chance to escape Chiang Mai’s busy streets and dive into the region’s lush landscapes. From the moment you’re picked up early in the morning, the adventure begins with a trip to Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls, famous for their slippery limestone cascades. The name says it all—these waterfalls are fun to climb and bathe in, providing a refreshing and playful experience that both kids and adults will enjoy. We loved the fact that you can freely walk and climb these natural formations, making it a perfect blend of relaxation and activity.

After soaking and exploring, the journey continues to the Tree House Hideaway — a truly special lodging experience. This is not just a place to sleep; it’s a chance to wake up to panoramic forest views and the sounds of nature. The main treehouse structure has four private bedrooms and a large communal terrace, perfect for communal meals or simply soaking in the scenery. For travelers seeking extra privacy, private jungle cabins are also available, which means you can choose your comfort level.

The Itinerary: A Day Packed with Highlights

Day 1 kicks off with an 8:30 am pickup from your hotel or Chiang Mai Airport, followed by a scenic drive to Bua Thong Waterfalls. Expect to spend about 1.5 hours here, walking, bathing, and climbing the limestone cascades. Reviewers mention the waterfalls as “great for climbing,” and the experience of feeling the cool water and slippery rocks is a definite highlight.

Post-waterfalls, the group is driven to Tree House Hideaway for check-in and lunch on the terrace, with sweeping views over the forest. The afternoon features a guided mountain hike to a hidden waterfall, where you’ll want to bring covered shoes (trainers are fine), a swimming costume, and mosquito repellent. This part of the tour offers a more secluded experience, and several reviews praised the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, mentioning one guide as “a topper” and “super knowledgeable.”

After the hike, you’ll have some free time — a chance to relax, enjoy the scenery, or opt for an optional Thai massage at 250 THB for an hour, which many found highly relaxing after a day of activity.

Day 2 begins with breakfast on the terrace, followed by a trip to Chiang Dao Caves. Here, a local guide uses kerosene lamps to illuminate the limestone caverns, creating an authentic exploration. Reviewers appreciated the guide’s storytelling and the chance to see a different side of Thailand’s limestone formations.

The tour concludes with a drive back to Chiang Mai, dropping you off at your hotel or the airport. This well-structured itinerary balances active exploration with moments to unwind and appreciate the surroundings.

The Lodging: Staying in the Treehouse

This isn’t your typical hotel stay. The Tree House is a luxurious yet rustic retreat, with four private bedrooms and a large communal terrace overlooking the forest canopy. Guests love waking up to the sounds of birds and the view of greenery stretching in all directions. One reviewer described it as “sent to sleep with the sound of waterfalls and waking up with a view of the forest,” a sentiment many echoed.

While the rooms are well-maintained, some noted that the bathrooms and showers are basic and a little aged, which is understandable given the eco-friendly flair of the accommodation. Still, for the experience of living in a forest canopy, this setting is unbeatable.

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The Guides and Service

The guides play a crucial role in making this experience memorable. Multiple reviews mention their friendliness, local knowledge, and ability to keep the group engaged. One reviewer said, “the guide was a super knowledgeable and nice guy,” which made the whole trip smoother and more enjoyable. They also share interesting facts about the flora, fauna, and geological features, enriching your understanding of the environment.

Practicalities: Transport, Group Size, and Cost

Transport is comfortable and reliable, with highly-rated vehicles ensuring a smooth journey between locations. The group size is limited to six participants, which means more personalized attention and less feeling like just another tourist. The cost may seem a bit high, but considering the inclusion of private accommodations, guided hikes, transport, and activities, the value is fair for many travelers seeking an immersive experience.

The tour is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which offers peace of mind while planning. Payment can be made later, adding convenience for spontaneous travelers.

Authenticity and Reviews

According to reviews, guests rave about the expert guides, with phrases like “the guide was super” and “full of knowledge,” which significantly enhances the experience. Many travelers appreciated the stunning views and the chance to see parts of Thailand that few travelers venture to. One traveler noted that despite some minor issues with the facilities, the overall experience was “fantastic,” and they would recommend it for adventure lovers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who are adventure-minded, enjoy nature, and are comfortable with moderate physical activity. If you’re after a luxurious stay, this might not be the best fit, but if you love the idea of sleeping in a treehouse with forest sounds all around, this is perfect. It’s also ideal for small groups or couples wanting a more intimate, authentic connection with Thailand’s landscapes.

Final Thoughts

This tour combines adventure, relaxation, and authentic immersion into northern Thailand’s natural habitats. The guided hikes and cave exploration add educational value, while the treehouse accommodation offers a memorable, one-of-a-kind experience. The overall 4.9/5 rating and positive reviews underscore its appeal for those who want more than just sightseeing.

While the facilities are basic and the price might seem high for some, the overall value lies in the uniqueness of the stay and the quality of guides. If you’re looking for a rustic yet comfortable escape into nature, this tour delivers in spades.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, reliable transport is provided from Chiang Mai to each destination, ensuring a comfortable journey.

What should I bring for the hike?
Wear covered shoes, such as trainers, and bring a swimming costume, mosquito repellent, and personal water.

Are meals included?
Lunch on Day 1 is included, and dinner is served at the treehouse. Breakfast is also provided on Day 2.

Can I opt for a private room?
Yes, private jungle cabins are available if you prefer more privacy than the shared treehouse.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the activities involve walking and climbing, so older children or teenagers are more suitable.

How fit do I need to be?
A moderate level of fitness is recommended for the jungle hike and waterfall climbing.

What’s the accommodation like?
The treehouse offers four private bedrooms and a large communal terrace with forest views, with basic but comfortable amenities.

Are there optional activities?
Yes, an optional Thai massage is available for 250THB per hour, highly recommended after a day of activity.

How many people are in the group?
Limited to six participants, creating an intimate atmosphere.

What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This tour presents a fantastic way to explore Thailand’s untouched beauty, combining adventure with comfort in a way that’s memorable and authentic. Whether it’s the thrill of climbing waterfalls, sleeping in a treehouse, or discovering hidden caves, you’ll leave with stories to tell and photos to keep.

You can check availability for your dates here: