No.1 Full-Day Chiang Mai Caving & Jungle Kayaking: Chiang Dao

Chiang Dao Cave stretches over 5km underground through chambers decorated with Buddhist figures and relics dating back to the Burmese monk who discovered the system 300 years ago. This 7-8 hour tour pairs a guided one-hour cave walk with jungle kayaking on the river that runs nearby, with lunch and a support truck included.

After pickup from Chiang Mai, the drive out to Chiang Dao takes about 90 minutes, climbing into the mountains north of the city. A local guide leads the cave walk, starting in the side-arm chambers before moving into the main well-lit section, where carved Buddha images sit in niches alongside stalactites and ancient relics. Lunch is at the cave-side restaurant (vegetarian and vegan options available). The kayak section follows after a 10-minute shuttle to the river put-in, with a briefing and orientation at the pro-shop before you head downstream. You paddle your own boat through jungle riverbanks and low rapids, with the support truck running alongside in case of issues.

Suits travellers who want both underground and above-ground adventure in one day. No prior kayaking experience required, the river is mostly flat with small rapids. Bring closed shoes that can get wet, a change of clothes and sun protection. First aid-certified instructors accompany the group. Insurance and Chiang Dao river fees aren’t included. Water shoes, sunscreen and repellent are available at the pro-shop. Solid 4.7 rating across 209 reviews. Lunch at the cave-side restaurant has vegetarian and vegan options. Hydration pack fills, bottled water, Google Earth orientation and kayak briefing at the pro-shop, and a support truck with secured storage for valuables are all included. Pro-shop gear (sunscreen, repellent, water shoes, padded shorts) is available for purchase. Insurance and Chiang Dao river fees aren’t included.