No1. Chiang Mai City Hiking, Biking & Kayaking Triathalon

Chiang Mai’s Ultimate Outdoor Triathlon: Hiking, Biking & Kayaking

If you’re craving an active day in Chiang Mai that combines a little bit of everything—nature, exercise, and authentic scenery—then the No1. Chiang Mai City Hiking, Biking & Kayaking Triathlon offers an engaging way to see the region’s highlights without the hassle of planning each activity yourself. For $96.83 per person, this roughly five-hour adventure takes you through scenic forests, tranquil lakes, and the iconic Ping River, all while providing top-quality gear and expert guidance.

What we love about this trip is how smoothly it integrates three different outdoor pursuits into one manageable day. The guides, often praised as professional and attentive, provide safety equipment and support throughout, making it suitable even for those new to outdoor sports. Plus, the included lakeside lunch—vegetarian and vegan options available—adds a satisfying touch of local flavor.

One potential consideration is that the day’s pace can be quite full—so if you’re not comfortable with a physically active itinerary or have mobility issues, you might find the schedule a bit demanding. But for active travelers eager to see Chiang Mai from a different perspective, this tour offers excellent value and adventure.

This trip suits anyone who enjoys outdoor activities and wants a comprehensive experience in just a day. Whether you’re a solo explorer, part of a small group, or a family looking to keep everyone engaged, this is a fantastic way to dive into Chiang Mai’s natural beauty with knowledgeable guides leading the way.

Key Points

• All-in-One Adventure: Combines hiking, biking, and kayaking—no need to organize multiple tours.
• Inclusive Equipment: Top-quality gear for biking, kayaking, and safety provided, making it easy to just show up and enjoy.
• Authentic Scenery: Visits to hidden temples, waterfalls, lakes, and the Ping River showcase Chiang Mai’s natural surroundings.
• Small Group Focus: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring personalized attention from guides.
• Convenient Logistics: Hotel pickup, transportation, and a lakeside lunch make the day seamless.
• Active but Accessible: Suitable for most travelers with a reasonable level of fitness.

An Overview of the Adventure

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the outdoors of Chiang Mai, blending physical activity with cultural and scenic stops. Starting at 8:30 am, you’ll be picked up from your hotel—most likely in a comfortable, air-conditioned van—and driven to the outfitting shop where you’ll receive your gear and a briefing on safety and procedures. From there, the adventure begins.

The Morning Trek at Monthathan Waterfalls

Your first stop is Suthep National Park, home to the stunning Monthathan Waterfalls. The hike here, about an hour round trip, is accessible and offers a refreshing start to your day. As you walk along well-maintained trails, you’ll be accompanied by guides who are clearly knowledgeable and passionate. The waterfalls provide a perfect photo opportunity, alongside the chance to enjoy crisp mountain air and lush greenery. The reviews highlight the “nice scenery” and “great guides,” which truly sets the tone for the day.

Exploring Wat Pha Lat

Next, your group visits Wat Pha Lat, a forest temple hidden away from the crowds. This peaceful spot offers sweeping views of Chiang Mai and is a favorite for its tranquil atmosphere. The temple’s forest setting makes it an ideal spot for a short rest and some quiet contemplation before the biking leg begins.

The Downhill Biking to Lake Huay Tueng Thao

After soaking in the serenity, you’ll hop on a mountain bike for a 12 km ride downhill toward Lake Huay Tueng Thao. This section is one of the day’s highlights, offering glimpses of local countryside and framed by lush slopes. The bikes are well maintained, and the guides are attentive, helping you navigate the terrain comfortably. Expect some fun, easy downhill sections that provide a good adrenaline rush without being overly technical. You’ll appreciate the flexibility of having gear and helmets provided, so you can focus on the scenery and enjoying yourself.

Lakeside Lunch and Swimming

At the lake, you’ll stop for a hearty lunch, with vegetarian and vegan options available. The lakeside setting makes the meal a relaxing break, and many reviews mention the delicious food as a memorable part of the experience. Post-lunch, you might take a dip or simply lounge by the water, recharging before the latter part of your adventure.

Kayaking Along the Ping River

The final activity involves kayaking from Wat Tha Luk to Chiang Mai’s city center on the Ping River. The professional guides give a brief safety orientation, including tips on paddling and boat control. The kayaks—double and single—are top-notch, ensuring a smooth experience on the water. Many travelers enjoy the serenity of paddling through the river’s calm stretches, with some noting the “serene landscapes” and the chance to see a different side of Chiang Mai.

Returning to Your Hotel

In just about 15 minutes, the support vehicle picks you up from the river and transports you back to your hotel. The entire day offers a perfect balance of physical activity, scenic beauty, and cultural sights, all wrapped up in a manageable schedule.

Why This Tour Is Worth Your Time

We found that the small group size—no more than 15 travelers—really enhances this experience. It means the guides can give more personalized attention, answer questions, and ensure everyone feels safe and confident. The gear quality is another plus: well-maintained bikes, kayaks, and safety equipment mean you don’t have to worry about comfort or safety, which elevates the entire outing.

On top of that, the variety of activities keeps the day engaging from start to finish. Hiking through waterfalls and forests, biking down scenic trails, and kayaking in a peaceful river setting offers a diverse array of sights and sensations. The included lunch by the lake is a thoughtful touch, providing nourishment and a chance to relax amid nature.

The reviews underscore the professionalism of the guides—”the guides were great” and “most travelers can participate,” making it clear that even newcomers to outdoor sports can enjoy this trip safely. The scenery, especially the waterfalls and forest temples, received particular praise, aligning with the tour’s promise of authentic and picturesque experiences.

Potential Drawbacks

While most found the day well-paced and enjoyable, some may find the schedule a bit full if they prefer a more leisurely pace. The physical requirements—such as biking and kayaking—may be a consideration for those with mobility issues or less active travelers. Also, the tour is scheduled to start early, so be prepared for an active day from the beginning.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure suits travelers who want a dynamic outdoor experience in Chiang Mai—perfect for active individuals, adventure seekers, or small groups wanting an authentic slice of nature and local scenery. It’s especially appealing if you’re eager to combine exercise, sightseeing, and cultural stops into one seamless day. Families with older children might also find it a rewarding outing, provided they’re comfortable with physical activities.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and return are included, with a comfortable air-conditioned van or 4×4 SUVs depending on group size.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
No, all sports gear and safety equipment—helmets, gloves, life jackets, bikes, kayaks—are provided.

What if I can’t swim?
While kayaking takes place on calm water, safety briefings are given, and life jackets are provided. It’s advisable to communicate with your guide if you’re uncertain about swimming.

Can I participate if I’m a beginner?
Most travelers can participate, and guides are experienced. The activities are designed to be accessible, but some basic fitness helps.

Is vegetarian or vegan food available?
Yes, the lakeside lunch offers vegetarian and vegan options.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, active clothing suitable for hiking, biking, and kayaking. Sports shoes and quick-dry clothes are recommended.

How long does each activity last?
The day includes about an hour at the waterfalls, a scenic bike ride of 12 km, and kayaking along the Ping River, with breaks for meals and rest.

What’s the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring personalized guidance.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in Chiang Mai and crave a day that combines outdoor fun with cultural sights, this hiking, biking, and kayaking tour offers fantastic value. It’s an excellent way to see the region’s natural beauty, meet friendly guides, and experience the outdoors without heavy gear or complicated arrangements. The small group setting ensures a more personal experience, and the variety keeps things lively from start to finish.

This trip is best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a full day of physical movement and want to experience Chiang Mai’s diverse landscapes firsthand. If you value authentic scenery, knowledgeable guides, and a well-organized schedule, you’ll find this adventure both rewarding and memorable.

In short: a lively, well-rounded outdoor adventure perfect for those who enjoy an active, scenic exploration of Chiang Mai’s mountains, lakes, and rivers—an excellent choice for the curious and energetic traveler.