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rural chiang rai
18 Days Itineraries Thailand

Northern Loops of Thailand and Vietnam

Most suited for
Families, Couples
Ideal time to visit
November – April

Loop through the north of both Vietnam and Thailand, steering away from the typical route. Unlike many Vietnam and Thailand holidays, this is about much more than ticking off the main sights. It’s about discovering extraordinary scenery, genuine interactions with locals, and some of the best food in Asia. It’s also a great way to see the marked contrasts between these two near neighbouring countries.

This holiday has an element of adventure, but you’ll always return to a very comfortable bed. Accommodation ranges from beautiful, hidden boutique hotels to local homestays. Activities are, as always, very carefully planned and tailored to you. Plus, with just one domestic flight, this is a beautiful option for those who prefer to soak up the atmosphere by traveling overland.

Either loop can be reduced in length if you are short on time, and it’s possible to tag on a beach stay at the end of the holiday in either country.

      

white temple

Trip Highlights

Immerse yourself in each region's way of life. Your guides will help you connect with people in a way that's authentic and respectful as you get to know the local culture and customs

Discover some of the most beautiful scenery of Southeast Asia. From walking or cycling through paddy fields and exploring limestone caves in Vietnam to waterfalls and birdlife in the bamboo forests of Thailand

Hanoi alleys

Get swept up in Chiang Mai and Hanoi. Explore the two cities on insider's tours of the backstreets, temples, and traditional, lesser-explored districts

Northern Loops of Thailand and Vietnam

As with all our holidays, this itinerary is just a starting point. We will create a bespoke package which will be completely unique for you. 

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Day 1

Your adventure begins

Depart your home country on your flight to Thailand.

Days 2 - 3

Chiang Rai

On arrival, you’ll be met by your guide and driver for the transfer to your hotel. The sleepy city of Chiang Rai lies on the banks of the Kok River, and here you can visit one of the most extraordinary temples in Thailand, adorned with gleaming white sculptures. In the evening, your guide will take you to eat, drink and haggle your way through the night market, which is less busy than but equally atmospheric as those in Bangkok or Chiang Mai.

You’ll also explore the countryside surrounding the city. Take in dramatic hills, unusual cave temples and fields of pineapple, stopping for a slice of the freshly-picked fruit along your way. By night, you’ll stay at a boutique resort in the countryside which has an infinity pool and mountain views.

rural chiang rai
Days 4 - 6

Phayao Adventure

Depart Chiang Rai, travelling south by road with your guide and spend the next three days discovering the beauty of the Phayao province. This area is untouched by mass tourism, and a stay here will reveal a side of Thailand you didn’t know existed.

The town of Phayao, centred around an expansive lake, is lovely and here you’ll be taken to a local restaurant to enjoy a tasty Northern Thai speciality, Khao Soi, before a Thai-style punt on the lake and visit to a little-known temple. The surrounding countryside is, in a word, blissful. Here you’ll meet local people and discover the rural ways of life before your guide takes you to a fascinating hidden mountain spot.

During your travels through the province, you’ll stay as a guest of the welcoming communities in their homestays, eating authentic, mouth-watering meals (topped with Thai basil you can even pick yourself from their garden). If you wish, you can help out your hosts in making a famous local dessert, Khao Khuob, consisting of sticky rice with coconut wrapped in bananas leaves.

During your time in this region, you’ll also have the chance to discover the waterfalls and birdlife residing in the bamboo forests of Doi Luang National Park.

While travelling through the province, you’ll stay in some wonderful homestays as a guest of the friendly communities and enjoy deliciously authentic home-cooked meals. On day seven, you will be transferred to Chiang Rai for your onward flight to Bangkok.

Days 7 - 9

Chiang Mai

You’re firmly back on the tourist route in Chiang Mai, but the historic city is not to be missed, and you’ll stay in a beautiful boutique hotel within the old city walls. Explore the area on our signature tour, observing Buddhist monks collecting their alms at dawn and tasting the local street food to get a real feel of the Thai traditions and culture. Another highlight is paying a visit to a sanctuary for rescued elephants, a truly memorable and educational experience.

Days 10 - 11

Ba Vi Mountain National Park

Board a midday flight from Chiang Mai to Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi, where on arrival your local guide and driver will meet you and transfer you into Ba Vi Mountain National Park. The forested area is just a 55km drive, but feels like a world away from the bustling city, offering a tranquil gateway to the country’s mountainous, scenic north.

Days 12 - 13

Pu Luong Nature Reserve

Drive past breathtaking mountain scenery, into the Pu Luong Nature Reserve, lying along two mountain ridges. During your two-night stay at the Pu Luong Retreat, picnic lunches and dinners are included, while you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy a range of activities.

Explore the beautiful retreat that provides captivating panoramic views in a tranquil setting. Head out on a bamboo river raft, cruising along the Cham river, or descend into the beautiful valley for a walk around tumbling rice terraces. Interact with the villagers living in the hills above the retreat, getting a glimpse into daily life and textile crafts as you explore the working farmland and rice fields.

Days 14 - 15

Ninh Binh & Trang An Ecosystem

Departing Pu Luong, you’ll travel east through the beautiful countryside to Trang An Ecosystem, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Ninh Binh province. Here you’ll board a small sampan (rowing boat), travelling along the river flanked by dramatic limestone mountains and green fields. During your two night stay in the region, you’ll stay in a boutique retreat amidst paddy fields with a swimming pool to relax by.

Head out on a cycling tour through the quiet and peaceful trails, soak in the magnificent beauty amongst the mountains or take a short hike to the top of Hang Mua for a spectacular aerial view of the region. Stop at a local house in a peaceful village before a chance to visit Bai Dinh Temple, Vietnam’s largest Buddhist temple complex and an important pilgrimage site.

Ninh Binh
Days 16 - 17

Hanoi

Spend the last two days of your holiday in Hanoi, enjoying a range of exclusive and unique experiences accompanied by your private guide. Get out early to explore the colourful markets, quiet streets and stroll around the lake. Along the way you may catch the Hanoians practising badminton, t’ai chi and open-air aerobics. Immerse yourself in the old town with its railway line running through the streets as residents go about their daily lives almost oblivious to the slow-moving trains!

Sip on Vietnamese coffee or a cold local beer and discover the city’s distinctive and lively street food culture. Marvel at the French colonial architecture and weave through the labyrinthine of alleyways in the old quarter. There are many museums to visit as well depending on your interests, covering the ancient history, military history, fine arts or the serene Temple of Literature.

Day 18

Fly home

Fly home from Hanoi or extend your trip to visit one of the beautiful beach areas.

Amazing cultural and relaxing experience in Thailand

ETG picked such a good range of places allowing us to sample the big cities, the very rural villages and the people who lived there, the jungle and national parks and the beaches. The booking and arrangement was made very simple... The company included surprise activities (a paid-for fancy dinner and massages). Would highly recommend!
Lil
11 June 2025

Excellent850 Reviews

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What’s included:

With ETG, what’s included goes well beyond the basics. From the moment your trip begins to your final farewell, the essentials are already taken care of, leaving you free to immerse, explore and enjoy without the hassle of hidden extras.

Here’s what comes as standard in all of our holidays:

All flights (unless you’ve booked your own!)
Expert guides and drivers
All accommodation
Many meals and snacks
Immersive experiences throughout
All regional transfers
Tips
24/7 In-Country support
Personal travel consultant throughout

Pricing:

As every holiday is bespoke, prices vary depending on destination, flights, hotel choices, inclusions and travel dates. We aim to include as much as possible upfront, so you know exactly where you are. As an approximate guide:

Bespoke Holidays £4,500 - £8,500pp
Bespoke Luxury Holidays £8,500 - £14,500pp
Bespoke Family Holidays from £4,000 - £7,500pp

Meet Our Thailand Experts

Ella’s first trip to ‘The Land of Smiles’ sealed the deal. She fell instantly for the effortlessly friendly people and the banging food. Now, she spends her time helping travellers experience the Thailand she loves – from Bangkok’s hidden gardens with secret restaurants to quiet islands where you won’t be part of a pack of tourists. Phew.

“Journey through the mountains of Thailand and Vietnam, where timeless cultures, breathtaking scenery and genuine encounters unfold at every turn.”

Ella
Regional Expert
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Explore Our Hotels & Villas

Wherever you go, and whatever you do, at the end of every day you can always be sure of a comfortable rest. Every location on our list of hotels is handpicked, and in its own way, shares the history, the hospitality, and the soul of the destination. Below are some examples of the different hotels we use.

Aira Boutique Pool

Hanoi - Superior

Aira Boutique

Ninh Binh - Comfort

Tam Coc Garden

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Aira Boutique Pool

Vietnam, Hanoi

Aira Boutique

Aira Hotel in Hanoi offers boutique comfort just steps from the Old Quarter, with a rooftop bar, family-friendly rooms, and a relaxed city vibe.

Highlights

Highlights

Rooftop cocktails,

Family-friendly suites,

 

Best for

Couples,

Families,

Solos

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Aira Boutique Pool
Aira Boutique lobby
Aira Boutique room
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Ninh Binh, Vietnam

Tam Coc Garden

Tam Coc Garden is an intimate retreat in Ninh Binh’s rice fields, with bikes, local experiences and views of Vietnam’s most dramatic landscapes.

Highlights

Highlights

Soul-stirring scenery,

Secluded oasis,

Best for

Couples

Gallery

The ETG Guarantee

We guarantee you an experience no one else has ever had. 

The travel magic you’ll remember won’t be found on a well-trodden – or over-Instagrammed – itinerary. It will be the surprises, discoveries and secrets that you’ll uncover along the way with us.

Do you ever feel like people aren’t listening to you?  

We get it. And we will – that’s a promise. Your holiday starts with a proper, no-pressure call to understand what you want, what you don’t want, and what matters to you. From there, we create a completely unique adventure, inspired by our conversation together.

And because of our long-standing relationships with trusted partners across Asia, you’ll have access to experiences you can’t find on Google. The kind of special experiences that are literally impossible to find on your own.

Experiences in Thailand

Crafting bespoke packages is the heart of what we do. Each holiday is specially designed to confound preconceptions and share magical, memorable, and truly exceptional experiences.

Hanoi, North Vietnam, Vietnam

A Hanoi Food Story

Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand, Thailand

After Dark Vespa Tour in Chiang Mai

Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand

Overnight Sleeper Train in Thailand

Elephant and his carer at ethical sanctuary Chang chill in Chiang mai

Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand, Thailand

ChangChill Ethical Elephant Sanctuary

HAnoi Food Tour

Hanoi

Hanoi's Secret Alleyways

Street food ladies Hanoi

Hanoi

Hanoi Street Food Tour

Hanoi, North Vietnam, Vietnam

Early-Morning Tai Chi, Hanoi

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Hanoi

A Hanoi Food Story

It’s the whack of chilli in a Banh Mi, the hit of steam from a bowl of Pho, the crackle of grilled pork, the slippery noodles, the fistfuls of fresh herbs.

Vietnamese food, if you’ll allow us a cliché, is an assault on all of the senses, and maybe some you didn’t know you had.

Anthony Bourdain said the food here has the power to change your life, and we’re certainly not going to quarrel with him. As Hanoi is one of the world’s great food capitals, it deserves a properly guided exploration. And this is it…

Gallery

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Chiang Mai

After Dark Vespa Tour in Chiang Mai

Get ready to explore Chiang Mai nightlife like a true local. This evening tour is designed to give you an immersive experience of the city’s rich culture and hidden gems for food and drinks. 

Hop on the back of a Vespa for a journey through the winding backstreets and residential neighbourhoods of Chiang Mai. Your guide will lead you to a local restaurant that is tucked away from the tourist trail, where you can dig into some delicious treats and mingle with the locals.

Next, you’ll stop at a small shop where you’ll learn how to make a beloved northern Thai dish. Roll your sleeves up for a hands-on food experience that will tantalise your taste buds.

As the night progresses, you’ll make your way to the banks of the Ping River, where you’ll be greeted with a lively atmosphere of bars and restaurants

The tour wraps up with a nightcap at a live music bar. You’ll experience Chiang Mai’s best local talent in action as you join the crowd. All in all, this will be a memorable evening with flowing music, food, and drinks.

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Bangkok

Overnight Sleeper Train in Thailand

Travelling by train in Thailand is a unique and memorable experience that offers a glimpse into the country’s cinematic landscapes and rich culture. The Thai railway system is extensive, covering most of the country, and has a range of train types to suit different budgets and preferences.

From the bustling city of Bangkok, you can board a train and journey through the lush countryside, passing by rice paddies, rolling hills, and charming villages. The slower pace of train travel allows you to take in the sights and sounds of your surroundings and to connect with local people and cultures along the way. 

One of Thailand’s most popular train routes is the Northern Line, which runs from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. This journey takes 11-12 hours, but sleeper trains make it an overnight option, with private cabins and beds.

Another popular train route is the Southern Line, which runs from Bangkok to the South with jumping-off points at Chumphon, Surat Thani (for Ko Samui or Khao Sok National Park), Trang and Hat Yai.

Here at ETG, we really recommend travelling by train at least once in your Thailand trip. Not only is a practical way to get around but it’s also often an adventure in itself: a great chance to see everyday life unfold and different landscapes in a unique way.

(It’s worth noting that it can often be tricky to obtain first-class tickets, as they are few and far between and sell out instantly. Second-class tickets are easier to obtain, and the carriage is still comfortable with air conditioning and seats that convert into sleeper beds).

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Elephant and his carer at ethical sanctuary Chang chill in Chiang mai

Chiang Mai

ChangChill Ethical Elephant Sanctuary

ChangChill is an ethical elephant sanctuary in the hills, roughly 90-minutes west of Chiang Mai. We love this sanctuary as it has a strictly hands-off policy, meaning you can observe the elephants in their natural element, relaxing, eating, playing and interacting exactly as they would in the wild. 

Many visitors to Thailand want to experience elephants on their trip but don’t know how to do so in an ethical way. Although there has been progress in prioritising elephant welfare in Thailand over the past decade, there are still parks with questionable practices, such as riding the elephants or chaining them up when not in public. ChangChill’s philosophy is that “elephants can simply be elephants”, so they are free to roam around their eight acres of land without being disturbed by humans.

ChangChill (meaning ‘relaxed elephants’) offers half-day or full-day packages, including plenty of chances to see the sanctuary’s elephants in their natural environment. After a quick introduction to the organisation and a safety briefing, you are led into the forest to search for the elephants. This trekking can be challenging, so isn’t suitable for anyone with mobility issues. The expert guides will teach you about elephant behaviour and conservation as you trek through the jungle, before reaching a mud pit where elephants like to roll around and cool down on hot days.  

The day continues with more chances to see the elephants going about their business and getting to know the mahouts and the Karen tribe they originate from. In between observing the elephants, your guides will show you how to prepare some healthy snacks for them and give you a crash course in Thai herbs picked straight from their organic garden.

We thoroughly recommend ChangChill to anyone who wants an educational elephant experience with the confidence of knowing that both the elephants and their carers are treated well.

Gallery

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HAnoi Food Tour

Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi's Secret Alleyways

Uncover the hidden corners of Hanoi’s Old Quarter with a guided exploration of secret alleys, pagodas, and unique architecture. Starting with coffee by Hoan Kiem Lake, this tour offers an authentic glimpse into the city’s history and charm.

This tour begins with a relaxing coffee: Vietnamese style, of course, and on the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake. Once you’re appropriately caffeinated, let the fun begin: a maze-like discovery of the 36 winding streets in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. This secret labyrinth is full of surprises, and it’s all hidden away from the busy streets. One narrow, dark alleyway will lead you to a charming pagoda. An ancient staircase might reveal an unexpected historical relic. Peer down water wells, admire the unique architecture, hear the fascinating stories and save time for a refreshment at a local store most tourists would never get the chance to visit.

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Hanoi
Hanoi Market Vietnam
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Street food ladies Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi Street Food Tour

It’s the whack of chilli in a Banh Mi, the hit of steam from a bowl of Pho, the crackle of grilled pork, the slippery noodles, the fistfuls of fresh herbs. Vietnamese food, if you’ll allow us a cliché, is an assault on all of the senses, and maybe some you didn’t know you had.  

Anthony Bourdain said the food here has the power to change your life, and we’re certainly not going to quarrel with him. Hanoi is one of the world’s great food capitals and it deserves a properly guided exploration.  

Our expert local good guide will take you on a journey through the sights, scents, and sounds of the Old Quarter, a neighbourhood known as ‘36 streets’. Weaving through people and motorbikes you’ll duck into hole-in-the-wall restaurants and hidden markets to meet the cooks, chefs, and characters that bring life to the area. 

 

Gallery

Hanoi
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Hanoi

Early-Morning Tai Chi, Hanoi

Before most of the city wakes up and the motorbikes start buzzing, many Hanoians head to the parks to practise Tai Chi.

Experience a peaceful, spiritual side of Hanoi that most visitors never see, as fruit sellers set up their stalls and children make their way to school in crisp white uniforms.

Gallery

Important FAQs about Thailand

At Experience Travel Group, we’ve been crafting immersive holidays in Thailand for around 20 years and some of our team live there. Our in-depth local knowledge, long-standing partnerships and network of specialist local guides, we can really help you under the skin of the country and discover her secret sides.

Over the years, we’ve developed enriching experiences that bring together cultural depth and give you the freedom to explore. Think hands-on food adventures in Bangkok’s backstreets, access to peaceful beaches, countryside stays where local life still ticks to its own rhythm, or journeys into the mountainous north to meet the hill tribes – all bespoke to you.

With our expert planning and on-the-ground support, you can get into holiday mode knowing everything’s covered – while still having the freedom to discover Thailand your way. We don’t do cookie-cutter trips. Every holiday is personal, every route considered, and every detail designed to show you a side of Thailand that most visitors miss.

So come with us, to the Thailand we know and love.

In general, November to April is the most popular time, with warm, dry weather across most of the country – ideal for both exploring and beach time. But Thailand’s seasons aren’t as simple as they look, and with a little know-how, there’s somewhere worth visiting year-round.

The Andaman Coast (Phuket, Krabi, Koh Lanta) is at its sunniest between November and April, while the Gulf of Thailand (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao) comes into its own from February to August when the west coast monsoon winds bring in rain to the west coast. With its mountains and cooler breezes, Northern Thailand is best for trekking and outdoor adventures from November to February.

Travelling during the “green season” (roughly May to October) can be rewarding: fewer crowds, greener landscapes, and lower hotel rates. Rain tends to arrive in short, heavy bursts rather than all day, leaving plenty of sunshine in between. National parks are glorious at this time, with waterfalls in full flow. During late August and September, Thailand often experiences flooding, so this time is usually best avoided, though even then, you can still visit many of the beach destinations very happily.

The months of April and October are the turning points worth considering for great-value travel, with fairly reliable weather. In April, the Songkran New Year festival is a joy to be part of, if you don’t mind getting a soaking from a water pistol (or water blaster!). The rates fall dramatically compared with March. While Songkran marks the start of the rainy season, it has not fully kicked in. It can be a good time to travel throughout the country for those who can put up with some serious heat and humidity. In October, the rains tend to fall away as Thailand returns towards the settled November weather.

So while November to March might be the sweet spot for most of Thailand, there’s always a way to plan a Thailand holiday that fits your timing – and often, going slightly against the grain can mean quieter beaches, great value and a richer experience.

Every ETG holiday is designed to feel seamless, immersive and stress free. We’ll arrange international flights (if you’d like us to), your drivers and guides, and stays in characterful hotels we know and trust.

You’ll experience the country in a way that’s completely bespoke to you – from quiet moments to big adventures – all planned by our specialists. And while you’re away, our local team is on hand 24/7, so you’ll always feel well looked after.