Rating: 4.2/5 (6 votes)

Open Days: Rafting season is generally Oct – Feb (advance booking is recommended, as it depends on water level, weather, and the operator’s trip schedule)

Opening Hours: Recommended to start in the morning, 06:00 – 18:00 (actual timing depends on the 3 days 2 nights plan and the team’s meeting point)

 

Mae Tuen River Whitewater Rafting (Omkoi – Sam Ngao) is the kind of river journey that pulls you away from “café Chiang Mai” and drops you into another Chiang Mai entirely – forested valleys, real current, real silence, and nights where darkness feels natural instead of switched off. The trip typically starts at Ban Huai Nam Khao in Omkoi District, then follows the Mae Tuen River through the lush forest of the Mae Tuen Wildlife Sanctuary. From there, the mood gradually shifts with the terrain until you reach the Sam Ngao area in Tak Province. What makes this different from a typical splash-and-go activity is that it’s a journey, not a quick thrill – you let 3 days 2 nights work on your body and your mind, then you collect your reward in the form of riverside sunsets and a night sky brighter than city lights.

 

The Mae Tuen River is an important tributary of the Ping River, flowing from the mountain ranges in Omkoi down to meet the Ping River upstream of Bhumibol Dam. That’s why this route isn’t only about “fun rapids” – it’s a passage through an ecosystem that is still fully alive: forest edges, riverbanks, seasonal sandbars, and water sections that change the level of challenge with the seasons. In general, trips are often described as Class 2–3 rapids: exciting and lively, great for people who want a serious outdoor adventure, but not so extreme that it becomes unmanageable. If you go during the river’s best season (often Oct–Feb), you’ll usually get water that works well for rafting and weather that makes camping by the river feel like real rest – the kind where you actually sleep.

 

A typical 3-day, 2-night trip starts with meeting the team, equipment checks, and a safety briefing before getting on the water. Day 1 is often a warm-up: learning paddle rhythm, boat communication, and how to read the current. After that, the route gradually introduces more serious rapid sections. Along the way you’ll see changing riverscapes – rock faces shaped by water, wider calm stretches for breaks, and beautiful banks that feel far from the modern world. The day usually ends with camping or an overnight riverside stay on the Mae Tuen River. That first night is the one people remember most, because your phone becomes almost irrelevant, and the loudest sounds are often the river itself and a soft crackle from a campfire (only if the area allows and it is done safely). Day 2 is commonly the core day: longer distance, more rapid sections, and a steady rhythm of paddle – rest – eat – paddle until you reach the second camp. Day 3 wraps up the journey, brings you to the take-out point, then it’s time to return according to the team’s plan.

 

Before booking, it’s not only about the price – it’s about readiness. You need to be okay with getting wet, slipping, sun, wind, and unpredictable weather, and you must follow the guide’s instructions strictly. On a river, safety is team discipline, not solo bravery. Common essentials include a life jacket, helmet, secure footwear that won’t slip off when wet (avoid flip-flops), quick-dry clothing, a lightweight rain layer, a dry bag for valuables, personal medication, and a flashlight/headlamp for camp nights. People who should think carefully include those with heart conditions, severe asthma, frequent fainting, or health issues that can be triggered by cold and wet conditions – the best approach is to inform the operator honestly in advance.

 

Because the route runs through a protected area, the most important thing you can do is leave no trace: pack out all trash (including small plastic bits), don’t throw food scraps into the river, don’t use soap/shampoo directly in the water, keep noise down at night, don’t chase wildlife or handle aquatic animals, and avoid using drones unless the area/team explicitly permits it. Small habits like these keep the route beautiful for future visitors and help communities and conservation managers live with tourism without damage.

 

Getting There The rafting start point is at Ban Huai Nam Khao in Omkoi District, Chiang Mai. In most cases, travelers arrive by private vehicle or the operator’s van (as arranged), then gather for packing and final equipment checks before launching. It’s wise to allow extra travel time because Omkoi routes include mountain roads, many curves, and areas with weak mobile signal. If you rely on navigation, download offline maps in advance and bring drinking water and light snacks for the drive before the trip begins.

 

 

A: The recommended season is generally Oct–Feb, when water levels are often suitable and the weather is more comfortable. Always confirm water level and weather with the operator before booking.

 

A: Yes, for beginners who can follow the guide’s instructions strictly, wear a life jacket and helmet properly, and avoid pushing beyond their limits. The key is team discipline, not solo bravery.

 

A: Bring secure non-slip footwear, quick-dry clothing, a lightweight rain layer, a dry bag for important items, personal medication, and a flashlight/headlamp. A light jacket is also useful for cooler riverside nights.

 

A: Follow the team’s assessment and decisions – safety comes first. The route, timing, or activity format may be adjusted based on water and weather conditions.

 

A: Contact Number Four Guesthouse at Tel. 0 5554 4976 or 08 1785 2098 to ask about available dates, conditions, and meeting details.