Experience Overview
Want a family getaway that’s a little different? With the colourful markets of Bangkok as your starting point, introduce the kids to a new world on this Thailand trip with a twist. Watch rescued elephants splash in the mud at a nature park in Chiang Mai, see how other families live during a fun rural village visit, uncover the exciting history behind the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya and try some new and yummy treats along the backstreets of Bangkok. Both children and adults alike will have a blast on this carefully designed itinerary that promises new friends, heaps of fun and plenty of free time to connect as a family.
Highlights
- Step into history at Kanchanaburi, home to the infamous 'Bridge on the River Kwai', before taking a swim in the turquoise water of Erawan waterfall.
- Get an introduction to Bangkok on an EV boat trip through its canals, then make a visit to Wat Pho where the larger-than-life reclining Buddha will blow you and your family’s mind.
- Learn about local life during a day trip to Ban Hua Tung village, then sample some delicacies with a traditional lunch cooked by the community.
- Spend a morning at the Chang Chill elephant experience, watching these incredible creatures freely (from a distance) and learning about the organisation’s conservation efforts.
- Let your expert leader take the hassle out of family travel as they guide you through the sights and bites of Thailand, so relax and hand over the responsibility – you deserve it.
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll learn about our Intrepid Foundation partner, World Animal Protection. Donations support them to promote better living conditions for elephants in captivity and help rescue elephants from inhumane conditions. Intrepid will double your impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2775
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Private Minivan,Public transport,EV boat,Overnight sleeper train
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Family
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: TTFA
Starts: Bangkok, Thailand
Finishes: Chiang Mai, Thailand
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (7), Lunch (2),Accommodation: Hotel (4 nights),Floating Raft Resort (2 nights),Overnight sleeper train (1 night)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) $1,348 ($168 /day)
Itinerary
Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 5 pm. If you arrive early, there is plenty to see and do in this exciting city. Bangkok is famous for its tuck tuks, khlong boats and street vendors serving up delicious Thai food. Perhaps take a riverboat to Chinatown and explore the crowded streets, uncover the magnificent Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, wander down the tourist mecca of Khao San Road, or indulge in a Thai massage. After the meeting, head out for an optional group dinner to get to know your leader and the other families on your trip.
Optional Activities:
- Bangkok - Grand Palace (500 THB)
- Bangkok - Thai kickboxing exhibition (2200 THB)
- Bangkok - Thai Massage (250 THB)
Accommodation:
- Nouvo City Hotel Bangkok (or similar) (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, set out to explore some of Bangkok's hidden treasures. Visit the flower Market, where you and the family will learn how to fold a lotus petal. Then, hop on the underground to get to the Chao Phraya River, where you’ll board an EV boat and explore the famous khlongs (canals) of Bangkok. Life along these canals seems a world away from the busy streets of the capital. Stop at an artists house to make a special keepsake before enjoying some lunch at a local riverside restaurant. Then sit back and travel by private transfer to Kanchanaburi, where you’ll be staying for the next two nights in a unique floating rafthouse resort.
Included Activities:
- Bangkok - Khlong boat canal tour
- Bangkok - Flower Market
Accommodation:
- Boutique Raft Resort (or similar) (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning travel to the stunningly beautiful Erawan National Park. Located in western Thailand in the Tenasserim Hills of Kanchanaburi Province, this national park boasts the incredible Erawan Falls, a famous seven-level waterfall with turquoise pools and exotic tropical fish. It's a great place to explore or simply swim and relax. If you do some exploring of the lush surrounds, keep your eyes peeled for eagles, pheasants or leafbirds among many others who might be soaring above or perched in the treetops. Then return to your rafthouse resort where you and your family can enjoy swimming in the pool or you may like to experience a raft ride down the river.
Included Activities:
- Kanchanaburi - Erawan National Park Visit
Accommodation:
- Boutique Raft Resort (or similar) (Number of Nights: 1)
Transfer by minibus to the nearby city of Ayutthaya. Once the capital of ancient Siam, Ayutthaya offers a great opportunity to stroll the World Heritage-listed ruins of this once magnificent city, and you’ll get the chance to do exactly that on a guided tour of the picturesque ruins and temples spread across the town. The ruins at Wat Phra Mahathat provide many photo opportunities and the Buddha head surrounded by Banyan tree roots is perhaps the most photographed site in Ayutthaya. After, you’ll have access to a day room at a local hotel in Ayutthaya to relax, have a swim in the hotel pool and freshen up before the overnight train journey north.
Included Activities:
- Ayutthaya - Temple Ruins entrance & guided tour
Accommodation:
- Overnight Sleeper Train (Number of Nights: 1)
Wake up in Chiang Mai, the most vibrant city of Northern Thailand. As well as amazing temples and an interesting old town, the city is known for its friendly, smiling locals. You'll have a chance to explore the town and enjoy some lunch before driving along a scenic, winding mountain road that ends at an impressive 300-step Naga-guarded stairway. The rewards will justify the climb, as Doi Suthep, one of Thailand's most stunning temples, reveals itself. You'll be treated to panoramic views of the city from up here, and you might even be able to listen to the evening chants of the resident Buddhist monks. Return to Chiang Mai, and with free time in the evening, perhaps wander through the colourful night bazaar or visit one of the quality restaurants along the riverfront. In any case, don't miss out on the signature northern dish kao soy – yellow wheat noodles in a curry broth with chicken or beef.
Included Activities:
- Chiang Mai - Orientation Walk
- Chiang Mai - Doi Suthep Temple Complex (Entrance)
Optional Activities:
- Chiang Mai - Bicycle tour (990 THB)
- Chiang Mai - Thai massage (200 THB)
- Chiang Mai - Jungle Zip Line (2200 THB)
- Chiang Mai - Thai cooking course (1000 THB)
Accommodation:
- De Charme Hotel (or similar) (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you’ll and the family have a special time visiting the Chang Chill elephant experience. Drive out of Chiang Mai to Chang Chill, where you’ll begin to learn how this organisation supports the protection, conservation and lifestyle of free roaming elephants in the region. You’ll observe the daily patterns of these jungle giants from a safe distance, seeing how they graze and socialize with their other friends. The expert local guides will be able to give you a ‘live lecture’ on the elephants themselves, its sustainable tourism practices and conservation efforts in the area. Enjoy some refreshments nearby the elephant’s mud pit – but be careful not to get a spray! After lunch, head back to Chiang Mai and arrive in the late afternoon. You’ll have some free time to maybe visit the night markets or take a wander around the city.
We will have lunch at the Sanctuary before heading back to Chiang Mai arriving in the late afternoon. You will have some free time to maybe visit the night markets or take a wander around the city.
Included Activities:
- Chiang Mai - ChangChill Elephant Sanctuary day trip
Accommodation:
- De Charme Hotel (or similar) (Number of Nights: 1)
Set off early through the Chiang Dao Valley to the rural village of Ban Hua Tung. Arrive at the warm and welcoming village where the community will invite you and your family for a truly unique experience. Once you’ve had some time to settle in, join local guides for a walk around the village, giving you the chance to learn about their agricultural practices and traditional basket weaving. Visit the forest which the local Hua Tung people manage together as part of a new community initiative. The biodiversity of the forest is protected by a sacred 'forest ordination' by Buddhist monks whereby trees are ordained as monks – the people nurture the forest, and the forest nurtures the people in return. There's a yearly bamboo harvest which raises money for the village. The locals take great pride in showing you the development of their village and the many different herbal medicines and wild foods in the forest. Join your hosts for a homemade lunch prepared by the community and learn a little more about their lives. Then return to Chiang Mai for the final evening of your Thailand adventure.
Included Activities:
- Baan Hua Thung Community Visit
Accommodation:
- De Charme Hotel (or similar) (Number of Nights: 1)
Join your fellow travellers for a final breakfast, and then you can depart anytime following check-out. Looking to spend longer in Thailand? There’s still plenty to enjoy in this bustling capital, or you may like to venture south and explore some of the beaches and limestone cliffs in Southern Thailand.
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Marianne - Traveled, April 2024
My family and I had a fantastic 12 day family trip in Thailand. It was great to be on holiday and relax while not having to organise my family's day to day itinerary. Additionally, we experienced places in Thailand we would have been unsure of if on our own and got to interact with more locals as well. Highly recommend Intrepid family tours
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/20/2024
David - Traveled, March 2024
We loved this tour - the pace of the tour was excellent, and the mix of activities was spot on. The kids really enjoyed having other young people to hang out with. Recommended!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/10/2024
Sally - Traveled, March 2024
We had a great time on this trip visiting some amazing places and learning about Thai culture. Our tour guide Nok was fantastic making sure everyone was looked after, both adults and kids, and giving great local recommendations. Highly recommend this trip for a family adventure.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/11/2024
Rory - Traveled, December 2023
This was an amazing experience that I highly recommend to anyone who wants to go overseas. Especially in a place like Thailand having someone else set everything up makes everything easier. Our tour group and guide were also amazing so I would definitely recommend. :)
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/28/2024
Corey - Traveled, December 2023
Fantastic Family tour of Thailand. We thoroughly enjoyed our family trip, our tour guide Ning took great care of us and helped to foster great friendships between tour members. We saw a wide variety of sights and got to genuinely experience the Thai culture. We particularly appreciated the environmentally and culturally responsible approach of Intrepid.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/30/2023
Kaia - Traveled, December 2023
Trip was amazing with the beautiful scenery and beautiful beaches. Our guide was the best, from this I have made many friendships.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/04/2024
Archana - Traveled, December 2023
We really enjoyed our Thailand Family Trip. Our leader, Ning, was wonderful. Such a kind person, very knowledgeable about Thailand and enthusiastic to share her country. Made sure everyone was having fun and kept our group all together.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/05/2024
Kaia - Traveled, December 2023
Trip was amazing with the beautiful scenery and beautiful beaches. Our guide was the best, from this I have made many friendships.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/27/2023
Frances - Traveled, December 2023
Lovely tour full of new experiences and enough down-time for my 12 year old. Definitely need eye mask for the train but it was more comfortable than we had expected. We loved the waterfall and felt our guide Ant had chosen the best times to go to each spot to avoid crowds and give us the best experience possible.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/27/2023
Catherine - Traveled, September 2023
The Intrepid family tour exceeded all our expectations. Our leader went above and beyond to make sure everything went to plan. We made friendships and memories for a lifetime and will certainly be looking to book with Intrepid again.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/04/2023
Richard - Traveled, September 2023
Excellent trip for a family across a wide range of ages. A good and well balanced itinerary.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/04/2023
David - Traveled, September 2023
The family trip was a great stress free way to travel with our children though Thailand. Our tour leader was amazing and showed us many things we would never get to traveling alone. A well tought out itinerary that has something for everyone.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/04/2023
Michelle - Traveled, August 2023
The tour was a fantastic experience for myself, husband and three children aged 13, 12 & 12. We all thoroughly enjoyed our time in Thailand and it was full of wonderful experiences we'll never forget.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/21/2023
Tiffany - Traveled, August 2023
Excellent Trip start to finish. Our tour leader, Ning, was amazing to both adults and children. She was very accommodating and by the end I'd gained a new friend in her. The itinerary was very well laid out and there was a great amount of balance between cultural activities, fun and free time. Would certainly recommend.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/21/2023
Jon - Traveled, August 2023
This trip was amazing and took us (as a family) to undertake and see things that we would never have normally done. Our guide was excellent, friendly and great with the children. Such a great way to see Thailand rather than just spend two weeks in a resort! Thoroughly recommend Intrepid to any family.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/16/2023
Jessica - Traveled, August 2023
The best thing about the trip was sending the crabs back into the sea, seeing the elephants and waterfall swimming!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/16/2023
Kate - Traveled, August 2023
Our family trip to Thailand exceeded all our expectations. The activities were varied, each was enjoyable and showed us a different side of Thailand. Ant our leader was superb - she was flexible, focussed on the needs of the children and was always enthusiastic, available and informative. We couldn’t have asked for more! Thanks Ant!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/16/2023
Emily - Traveled, August 2023
Intrepid is just amazing . We had an awesome time in Thailand because intrepid made it happen . Our tour leader was fun and bubbly and was always there if you had a question . She also made Sure that at meal times there always something that everyone would like to eat.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/16/2023
Kelle - Traveled, July 2023
The Thailand family trip was a dream come true for our family. The tour accommodated our larger family of 5, including 4 vegetarians and we all made friends with others on the tour from across the world. Our children range from age 9-11 and the activities were balanced and suited both adults and children. We definitely recommend this trip to others.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/21/2023
Karl - Traveled, July 2023
Amazing way to sit back and enjoy the ride without a care in the world. Happy kids equals happy parents, this trip nailed it, thank you ??
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/11/2023
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