Chiang Mai 3 in 1 Zipline, Elephants and Sticky Waterfall

If you’re looking to pack a day with adventure, nature, and meaningful encounters, this full-day tour around Chiang Mai might just be the trip for you. For $116.92 per person, you get to soar through the jungle canopy on ziplines, spend ethical time with rescued elephants, and climb the famous Bua Thong Sticky Waterfall. Led by guides who earn glowing reviews—sometimes called “King Joe” or “Joe”—this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Chiang Mai’s outdoor charm and commitment to animal welfare.

What we love most are the seamless transitions between activities—no long waits or confusing transfers—and the personal touches that guides like Joe bring, from providing water shoes to taking plenty of photos. Our second favorite aspect is definitely the opportunity to interact authentically with elephants in a sanctuary that adheres to international standards, avoiding the touristy rides.

The only consideration? Since the tour involves several physically active stops, it may not be suited for those with mobility issues or really young children. But overall, this experience is perfect for those wanting a balanced day of adventure with meaningful, responsible encounters. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate well-organized tours with friendly guides and are eager to see Chiang Mai’s natural beauty in a safe, fun way.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines ziplining, elephant interactions, and the Sticky Waterfall into one day.
• Authentic Encounters: Visits an ethical elephant sanctuary, feeding and learning about rescued elephants.
• Thrilling Activities: Ziplining over the lush rainforest with guidance that feels supportive and safe.
• Unique Climb: The Sticky Waterfall lets you climb the limestone cascade without slipping, a rare and fun activity.
• Great Value: For the price, you get transportation, lunch, all fees, and a personal guide, making it a cost-effective adventure.
• Flexible and Friendly: The tour is suitable for most travelers, with reviews praising guides like Joe for their helpfulness and warmth.

When we first look at this tour, what stands out is its diverse itinerary—a full day that mixes adrenaline, compassion, and a touch of nature’s marvels. For just under $120, you get approximately seven hours of activity with a pick-up service, lunch, bottled water, and all fees included. This is a serious value considering the variety packed into one day.

The Itinerary Breakdown: From the Canopy to the Waterfall

The day kicks off at 8:30 am with a pick-up in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a real plus after a night or morning in the city heat. Our first stop is the ziplining adventure. You’ll fly between treetops, crossing sky bridges and experiencing long ziplines—some stretching over 1,100 meters. As one reviewer put it, “zip lining so much fun,” and it’s a fantastic way to see the jungle from a birds-eye view. The guides offer guidance and safety tips throughout, making this activity accessible even for first-timers.

What makes this stand out is the supportive guidance. One reviewer shared, “Joe supplied us with a towel, water shoes, and a waterproof phone case,” making the experience comfortable and stress-free. The ziplining is not just about thrills; it’s about experiencing the untouched beauty of Chiang Mai’s forests in a way that feels both safe and exhilarating.

Next, you’ll head to the ethical elephant sanctuary. This is where the tour truly shines, especially for those concerned about animal welfare. Here, you will feed elephants, learn their stories from caretakers, and even participate in bathing them in the river—no riding involved. It’s clear from reviews that this sanctuary adheres to international standards, making it a responsible choice for elephant lovers. One traveler noted, “The elephants looked well cared for,” highlighting the positive impression of the sanctuary’s standards.

The highlight of the afternoon is the visit to Bua Thong Sticky Waterfall. Unlike regular waterfalls, this limestone cascade offers a climbable surface that allows you to walk straight up without slipping. It’s a unique experience that many find absolutely fun and refreshing. One reviewer exclaimed, “Climbing the waterfall was so much fun,” illustrating how this activity adds a memorable adventure twist to the day.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour’s group size caps at 30, which keeps things personal without feeling crowded. The air-conditioned vehicle makes travel between sites comfortable, especially after physical activities. Since the pick-up is included, you don’t need to worry about logistics—just be ready at 8:30 am. The direct transfer from one site to another saves you time and energy, allowing you to focus on the experiences rather than navigating traffic or finding the next location.

Food and Additional Inclusions

A delicious Thai lunch is part of the package—something many reviews praise as both tasty and well-timed. Bottled water and local travel insurance are included, offering peace of mind. You’ll also benefit from the expertise of an English-speaking guide who, according to reviews, goes above and beyond—sometimes providing towels, water shoes, and even taking photos for guests.

The Experience in Practice: What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently describe the experience as “best trip ever” and highlight guides like Joe or Mr. K, who are lauded for their friendliness and attentiveness. One reviewer said, “Joe made us feel so happy and safe the whole day,” which demonstrates how important knowledgeable guides are for creating a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere.

Another reviewer praised the authenticity of the elephant sanctuary visit: “The elephants were so cute, and it was so much fun to feed and bathe them—no riding or touristy stuff.” This reflects a shift towards more responsible tourism, which is increasingly important for travelers.

The Sticky Waterfall earns high praise as well. “It’s a must-do,” many said, with the climb being described as “so much fun” and a great way to cool down after the morning’s activities.

Considerations and Who Will Love This Tour

While most find this tour accessible and enjoyable, there are some things to consider. The activities are physically active, so those with mobility issues or very young children may find parts of the day challenging. Also, since the day involves multiple stops and activities, it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a full, varied schedule rather than a relaxed, slow-paced trip.

This tour is ideal for adventure seekers, animal lovers, and those interested in authentic experiences. If you value guides who are friendly and attentive, as well as a well-organized itinerary, then this trip checks those boxes. It also suits those who want to maximize their time in Chiang Mai with a value-packed, diverse day.

This Chiang Mai 3-in-1 adventure offers a well-balanced mix of thrills, ethics, and scenic beauty. It’s a practical choice for travelers who want to see multiple highlights in one day without sacrificing quality or authenticity. The focus on ethical elephants and fun yet safe ziplining, combined with the unique climb of the Sticky Waterfall, makes it a compelling option.

If you’re eager to experience Chiang Mai’s lush landscapes and compassionate wildlife encounters in a convenient, guided format, this tour is a great pick. Its strong reviews reflect a consistent track record of satisfying travelers who leave with stories to tell and photos to cherish.

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle is provided for all transfers between locations.

What is the start time? The tour begins at 8:30 am with a pick-up service.

How long does the tour last? Approximately 7 hours, covering all planned activities and transfers.

Is this suitable for children? Most travelers can participate, but physical activities like climbing may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Are all activities included in the price? Yes, all fees, activities, and lunch are included, along with bottled water and insurance.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, free cancellation is available if done 24 hours in advance.

Is the elephant sanctuary ethical? Yes, reviews confirm it follows international animal welfare standards, and no riding is involved.

What should I bring? A towel is recommended; some guides provide them, but bringing your own is advised. Water shoes and waterproof phones cases are supplied or recommended.

What makes the Sticky Waterfall unique? Its limestone surface allows you to climb straight up without slipping, offering a fun and safe experience.

What is the group size? The tour accommodates up to 30 travelers, maintaining a friendly, manageable group environment.

This tour combines thrill, compassion, and stunning scenery—perfect for those wanting a comprehensive day out in Chiang Mai. With attentive guides, responsible wildlife encounters, and unforgettable natural sights, it’s a memorable way to experience northern Thailand’s outdoor splendors.