Imagine gliding down the Mae Taeng River on a sturdy inflatable kayak, surrounded by lush jungle scenery and the thrill of whitewater rapids—all without the hassle of renting gear or worrying about safety. That’s exactly what you get with this 10km inflatable kayaking tour, costing around $94 per person, and lasting approximately seven hours. It’s perfect for those who want a mix of adventure, comfort, and authentic nature in Northern Thailand.
What makes this trip stand out? First, the all-inclusive setup means you don’t need to worry about equipment or safety gear—everything from life jackets to helmets is provided. Second, the tour includes a delicious Thai lunch and comfortable, air-conditioned transportation. These details mean you can focus on enjoying the scenery, the rapids, and the company.
A potential consideration? The water level can vary, and sometimes the rapids are gentler, especially later in the season. If you’re craving high-octane whitewater, this might be more of a technical, scenic paddle than full-on adrenaline.
This tour is well-suited for families, couples, or adventure seekers of all ages who want a balance of outdoor fun and safety. It’s especially popular with travelers who value professional guides, delicious local food, and a small-group atmosphere—most tours cap at 8 participants.
- Safety and Comfort: All safety gear provided, with professional guides ensuring a secure experience.
- Inclusive Experience: Lunch, transportation, and equipment are included, offering great value.
- Suitable for All Ages: Well-organized with safety measures, making it family-friendly.
- Authentic Nature: Access to scenic views and rapids along the Mae Taeng River.
- Small Group Size: Max 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
- Flexible Cancellation Policy: Full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.
What to Expect from the Itinerary

The day begins bright and early, with pickup from your hotel in Chiang Mai or a pre-arranged meeting point. The journey in an air-conditioned vehicle takes you northward to the Mae Taeng River, a stretch renowned for its picturesque views and manageable rapids. This setup is perfect because it means you arrive relaxed, ready to paddle, rather than exhausted from a long, hot bus ride.
The main event? 10km of inflatable kayaking on the Mae Taeng River. The tour lasts about four hours, including time to gear up, paddle, and enjoy the scenery. The guides, like the ones praised in reviews, are experienced, friendly, and attentive—making sure everyone feels safe, especially if you’re new to kayaking. As one reviewer put it, “The guides are very capable, knowledgeable, and friendly,” which is reassuring if you’re worried about safety.
Accessing Stunning Scenery and Rapids
.jpg)
The Mae Taeng River’s lower water levels, especially in the dry season, mean the rapids are more technical than wild, providing a controlled yet exciting experience. Travelers report “lots of fun with beautiful scenery,” even when the water is low. Expect to paddle through calm stretches offering views of jungle-lined riverbanks, then encounter gentle rapids that add an element of excitement.
Many reviews highlight that, despite some water levels being lower than expected, the inflatable kayaks still deliver a good dose of fun. “The water was on the lower side but there were still some fun rapids,” said one traveler. What you’ll love is the scenic tranquility—a chance to disconnect and enjoy nature’s quiet beauty.
While in Chiang Mai, here are other experiences we've covered
Safety and Equipment
.jpg)
One of the biggest strengths of this tour is safety, which reviewers consistently praise. Every participant gets a life jacket, helmet, and paddle, and the guides are vigilant throughout. The small group size (max 8) allows for personalized attention, which adds to the confidence of novice paddlers or families with kids.
As one reviewer noted, “They run a safe company, with a great team along the river for safety support in case you fall in the rapids.” This reassurance means you can relax and have fun, knowing professional support is close by.
The All-Inclusive Experience
.jpg)
The tour includes air-conditioned transportation from Chiang Mai, a delicious Thai lunch, coffee, and tea. The lunch is often praised as more than just a quick snack; it’s a tasty, satisfying Thai meal that fuels your adventure. The convenience of included transport and meals makes this a great value, especially considering the logistical ease it provides.
Who Would Love This Tour?
.jpg)
This adventure is ideal for families with children, as many reviews mention ages from 9 to 15 enjoying the experience safely. It’s also perfect for couples seeking a scenic, fun outing that balances adventure with comfort. The small group size fosters a friendly, personalized atmosphere, often appreciated by travelers looking for a more intimate experience.
The Real Experience from Travelers
.jpg)
From heartfelt praise like “Great guides, safe measures, and wonderful meals,” to comments about how even low water levels still provided fun, this tour garners high marks across the board. Many reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides, the good organization, and the delicious food, which elevate the experience from just an activity to a memorable outing.
One family shared, “We are a family of 5, children aged 9, 12, and 15—everyone enjoyed it very much. The safety measures were very attended to,” highlighting its family-friendly appeal. Another noted, “Although the water was very low, it made for a fun technical day on the river,” showing that even challenges like low water levels weren’t deal-breakers.
- 4-Hour Doi Suthep & Hmong Hill Tribe Village from Chiang Mai
- Adrenaline Rush Day Tour at X-Centre Chiang Mai
- Chang Mai: Doi Inthanon Day Tour w/Waterfalls & Hilltribes
- Chiang Mai: Doi Suthep and Wat Pha Lat Temple Evening Tour
- Chiang Mai: Doi Inthanon Park and Pha Dok Siew Trail Trek
- Chiang Mai: HALF-DAY COOKING COURSE at a Thai Cooking Farm
Transportation and Group Size
.jpg)
The air-conditioned vehicle from Chiang Mai is comfortable, ensuring you’re refreshed for the paddle. The small group cap means you won’t be lost in a crowd, and guides can give more personalized safety and paddling tips. Reviews suggest smooth, prompt pickups and drop-offs, which keep the day organized and stress-free.
Price and Value
.jpg)
At around $94.45, the tour offers good value considering the inclusive nature—gear, transportation, lunch, and safety support. When you think about the cost of renting equipment, hiring guides, and arranging transport independently, the package is convenient and cost-effective. Reviewers often commend the “great experience for the price,” noting that it’s worth every baht for the fun, safety, and scenery.
If you’re eager to combine adventure, scenic beauty, and local cuisine in a relaxed setting, this inflatable kayaking tour hits all those marks. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate small groups, professional guides, and value for money. The safety record and positive reviews make it a reliable choice for families, couples, and even first-time paddlers.
While water levels can fluctuate, the overall experience remains engaging and enjoyable. It’s a great way to enjoy Chiang Mai’s natural river scenery without the intimidation of big rapids or the hassle of organizing your own trip.
Is pickup available outside Chiang Mai?
Pickup is offered from hotels within Chiang Mai city. Transfers outside of town can be arranged separately.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for getting wet, like quick-drying shirts and shorts. Don’t forget your sunscreen and a hat.
How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience and plenty of guide attention.
Can children participate?
Yes, most travelers including children aged 9 and above can join, as long as they’re comfortable with water activities and safety instructions are followed.
What is included in the price?
Your fee covers safety equipment, guide service, transportation, lunch, coffee, and tea.
What if the water levels are too low?
Even with lower water levels, many reviewers found the trip still very fun and scenic. The guides adapt accordingly, focusing on technical paddling and the scenery.
This 10km inflatable kayaking adventure in Chiang Mai offers a practical, enjoyable way to explore the Mae Taeng River’s natural beauty. It’s ideal for those who want an activity that combines safety, comfort, and authentic scenery without sacrificing adventure. The inclusive nature—gear, transport, lunch—makes it a hassle-free choice, especially for families and small groups.
If you’re after a day of scenic paddling, friendly guides, and delicious local food in a small-group setting, this tour delivers. Even if the water levels vary, the overall experience remains a safe, fun, and memorable way to connect with Chiang Mai’s outdoors.
For those who value well-organized trips, safety, and authentic natural beauty, this inflatable kayaking trip is a solid pick—and a good way to see Chiang Mai from a very different perspective.
More Kayak & Canoe Tours in Chiang Mai
More Tour Reviews in Chiang Mai
- Private Tour: Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls Tour
- Chiang Mai: Wat Pha Lat & Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Tour
- Chiang Mai Airport Private Van Transfer Arrival or Departure
- Chiang Mai: Doi Inthanon Park Day Trip with Kiw Mae Pan Hike
- Chiang Mai City Culture Half-Day Cycling Tour
- Half-Day Private Night Tour by Tuk Tuk in Chiang Mai City
More Chiang Mai experiences we've covered
- Chiang Mai: Wat Pha Lat & Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Tour
- Chiang Mai Airport Private Van Transfer Arrival or Departure
- Chiang Mai: Doi Inthanon Park Day Trip with Kiw Mae Pan Hike
- Chiang Mai City Culture Half-Day Cycling Tour
- Half-Day Private Night Tour by Tuk Tuk in Chiang Mai City
- No.1 Chiang Mai: Historical City Bike Tour
- “No.1 Chiang Mai: Suthep N. Park Leisure walks & Mountain Biking”
- Fantastic! Famous Doi Inthanon National park tour with 2hr trekking
- Northern Flavours Chiang Mai Food Tour with 15+ Tastings
- Chiang Rai Famed Temples and Golden Triangle Tour from Chiang Mai
- Half Day Umong Temple and Monk Chanting at Doi Suthep Temple ( Private tour)
- Half Day Thai Cooking Class in Organic Farm – Evening Session
