Thailand Essentials

Accompanied by your guide, you make your way to the docks and board a public water bus. As you travel along the water, you head towards the historic center on the right bank, until you reach the flower market at Pak Khlong Talat. Stroll through the fragrant aisles and immerse yourself for the first time in an authentic and traditional Asia.

We set out to discover the architectural jewels of Bangkok. Let us marvel at the splendor of the Grand Palace of Bangkok, built in 1782: a sumptuous complex of buildings and inner courtyards, including Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). We discover the famous Emerald Buddha, a precious statue dating from the 14th century, at the heart of one of the most revered sanctuaries in the country.

Then, on foot, we reach Wat Pho, one of Bangkok's oldest temples, renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and elegant pavilions. We discover the impressive Reclining Buddha, an emblematic figure of the place, as well as the inner courtyards dotted with stupas and refined decorative details.

Next, we cross the river by small boat to reach Wat Arun, the famous "Temple of Dawn", standing on the right bank. Upon arrival, we can admire its spectacular central prang, finely decorated with porcelain mosaics and floral motifs that sparkle in the light.

A ride on a private traditional "long-tail" boat-taxi on the Chao Praya river, one of the country's most important waterways and a vital artery of Bangkok. As we glide along the water, we discover the "Venice of the Orient", with its peaceful klongs, stilt houses and small temples hidden along the banks.

After lunch, you head out to discover the historic center of Ayutthaya. You explore in particular the Wat Mahathat, a major temple dating from the late 14th century, famous for the Buddha head entwined in the roots of a tree, which has become one of the symbols of the site.

The visit continues to the Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, former royal temple and the largest in the ancient capital, recognizable by its elegant aligned chedis that testify to the past grandeur of the kingdom.

Finally, you discover the Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, renowned for its impressive reclining Buddha and its peaceful atmosphere, offering a beautiful conclusion to this immersion into the heart of Siamese history.

With your guide, you take a detour to the great Warorot market, where you can find all sorts of specialties from northern Thailand, such as Sai Ua (northern sausage), Moo Yo (traditional Vietnamese pork sausage), Nam Phrik Num (northern green chili paste) and dried fruits, among other delicacies. In addition to local food, the market also offers clothing, ceramics, fabrics, embroidery tools, flowers, and much more.

You then leave the city center to gain altitude towards the Doi Suthep temple, perched on the mountain slopes at approximately 1,200 meters altitude. A true symbol of Chiang Mai, this magnificent Buddhist temple offers an atmosphere filled with serenity and spirituality, where statues, sanctuaries and bells accompany the faithful and visitors in a moment of contemplation.

Along the way, stop at Wat Pha lat, a more discreet temple nestled in the forest, appreciated for its peaceful setting and almost intimate atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Visit of the Wat Umong, a Buddhist temple founded in the 13th century and nestled at the foot of the Doi Suthep mountains. Surrounded by forest, this monastery offers a particularly peaceful atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

You discover the history of the place by crossing its ancient underground tunnels, dug for meditation. It is also an opportunity to exchange, when possible, with the resident monks and learn more about monastic life.

Upon arrival, we begin a guided hike on the Mae Wang trails. . We first walk along a mountain stream, before gaining altitude and crossing the terraced rice fields that shape the region's landscape. We take a lunch break near a waterfall, with the opportunity to refresh ourselves.

In the afternoon, the hike continues through cultivated areas and mountain paths. We reach a Karen village for a stop, then continue to the rice fields where your guesthouse is located, for a peaceful end of day close to local life.

Day accompanied by an English-speaking hiking guide. Total duration: approximately 5h30, including 3h30 of actual hiking.

This evening we are welcomed for dinner and the night at a Karen family home, in a breathtaking setting on the edge of the jungle, surrounded by rice fields.

After breakfast with our hosts, we can enjoy a short morning walk in the surrounding area before driving to Chi's camp, a young Karen man who shares his daily life with his elephants.

Here, the approach is respectful and centered on animal welfare: no riding, no shows, and limited interactions, always supervised, to give the elephants the space and pace they need.

Upon arrival, we prepare the fruits that will be used to feed them. You will walk with them in the jungle, where they move freely while feeding on the vegetation. Our guide helps us better understand their behavior and the care given to their well-being, for an authentic, gentle and ethical encounter.

In the afternoon, to cool off, you enjoy a peaceful descent of the Mae Wang river aboard a traditional bamboo raft. Guided by a local boatman, the raft glides gently with the flow of the water, offering a calm and contemplative way to discover the surrounding landscapes.

At the tranquil pace of the current, you travel through lush nature between forests, rice paddies and wild banks. A simple and relaxing activity, ideal for ending the day gently.

We take advantage of our free stay on the beautiful island of Koh Yao Noi. On site, you will have many activity options: kayaking, snorkeling… (not included). Or why not simply relax by the pool or on the beach.

Arrival at Bangkok airport where you can dine peacefully while waiting for your return international flight. On return, with many flights departing late in the day, we start this first program based on the assumption of your return from the islands on the same day as your return flight. If the latter is in the morning, we will reorganize the program with the night before in Bangkok.