A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THE TRIP
Nature escapeA BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THE TRIP
Nature escape Discover Thailand and its inhabitants, on foot, by bike and by raft, in the middle of nature and in the city. Between cultural and sporting discovery, a great adventure awaits you!THE BEST OF THE PRODUCT
- Bangkok, its temples and its lively streets
- 2 treks in the middle of nature, meeting mountain tribes
- Rafting and hiking in Umphang National Park
- Ayutthaya and the Kamphaeng Phet Temples
- Kindness of the Thaïs
THE BEST OF THE PRODUCT
- Bangkok, its temples and its lively streets
- 2 treks in the middle of nature, meeting mountain tribes
- Rafting and hiking in Umphang National Park
- Ayutthaya and the Kamphaeng Phet Temples
- Kindness of the Thaïs
OTHER ACTIVITIES INCLUDED IN THE OFFER
Included
- International flights, air taxes and airport transfers (if you purchased the program with the flights)
- Local transfers
- Framing
- The accommodation
- Meals except those mentioned below
- Collective equipment
- All the services indicated in the program.
Not Included
- International flights, air taxes, and airport transfers (if you purchased the program without flights)
- D1 and D14 lunches (allow 5 to 7 Euros per meal)
- The drinks
- The tips
- Personal expenses and equipment
- Optional insurances
- Any other supplement not included in the program.
The program
Day by dayDay of arrival
Day 2: Arrival in Bangkok.
Reception at the airport, transfer to the city and installation at the hotel.
During your stay
This morning, discover the royal district of Dusit. Departure by tuk-tuk (iconic Thai motorized tricycle) from the Thewet district in the direction of Wat Benchamabophit temple.
Day 4: Chiang Mai
Arrival of the train, transfer to the hotel. Drive to the north of Chiang Mai and visit the Doi Suthep Buddhist Monastery, located 13 km from Chiang Mai. Immerse yourself in the spirituality of this place, the songs of the monks, the incense... Then, departure on foot to discover the old city of Chiang Mai: the Wat Chedi Luang temple, the Wat Phra Singh temple, very well known for its Lai Kham chapel. Then visit Wat Chiang Mun temple, the former residence of King Meng Rai. At the end of the afternoon, departure by pickup truck for a new discovery of the city: its lively markets, its famous monuments. Stop in the center of the old town, at the public park where, at the end of the day, some inhabitants enjoy their favorite sports: yoga, badminton, aerobics... Overnight at the hotel.
NB: tonight, prepare the “average” backpack for the next 3 days (D5 to D7), plan your things for 3 days and 2 nights. The large travel bag is brought by vehicle, and picked up in Mae Sariang on the J7.
3-day trek in the Mae Wang region
Day 5: Drive to Baan Nong Tao Village, and hike
Drive to the village of Baan Nong Tao (80 km, about 2 hours drive), arrival expected around noon. Stop along the way in a market where the guide does some shopping. After lunch, short transfer to the starting point of the hike (20 minutes' drive). Start of the hike with a climb through a forest and some tea plantations, following the crest line. Arrival at the end of the afternoon, near the Tae Lae Po waterfall, possibility of swimming. 4 to 5 hours of walking, 12 km, altitude difference ±375m. Overnight at the inhabitant's house.
Day 6: Hike to Ban Pha Mon Village
In the morning, departure on foot through a bamboo forest, near a river. The trail then climbs through an evergreen forest to the village of Pha Hin Luang. This village, located at an altitude of 1700m, offers a beautiful view when the weather is clear. After lunch, hike again to the village of the Karen tribe called Baan Pha Mon. Walk in the village.
Approximately 5 hours of walking, 11 km, altitude difference ±375m. Dinner and overnight at the inhabitant's house.
Day 7: Hiking and Mae Sariang Village
This morning, departure of the hike (3:30) along the river and through rice fields to a waterfall: swimming possible. After lunch, stroll along the river to the village of Baan Huay Pong (about 1.5 hours of walking). Drive to the village of Mae Sariang (200 km, about 4 hours drive). Collection of travel bags left at the hotel in Chiang Mai. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 8: Drive to Umphang
Drive (2.5 hours) to the city of Mae Sot located on the Burmese border, lunch en route. The road continues across the mountain by the ancient “robber road” to the village of Umphang (4 hours away), the road is long and chaotic. Accommodation in the bungalows (bed and breakfast = Guest House). Overnight on the banks of the Mae Klong River.
NB: tonight, prepare the “average” backpack for the next 3 days (D9 to D11), plan your things for 3 days and 2 nights. The big travel bag is brought by vehicle, and picked up in Mae Sariang on J11.
3-day trek in Umphang National Park
Day 9: Ti-Lo-Su waterfalls, and rafting trip to Pha Lueat
Departure on foot in Umphang National Park, then raft down the Mae Klong River to Pha Lueat. The duration of the rafting trip depends on the flow of the river (allow between 1 hour and 2 hours of descent). Then drive to the site of our bivouac (40 min).
After lunch, departure on foot through the tropical forest to the “Ti-Lo-Su” waterfalls, the most spectacular in Thailand (around 30 min walk). Swimming in basins with transparent water at the foot of the waterfalls. Return to the bivouac, night in a tent.
Day 10: Ti-Lo-Su waterfalls and Kho Tha village
This morning, it is possible: either to walk to the top of the Thi Lo Su waterfall, or to take the time to enjoy the waterfalls and swim, before returning to the bivouac for a picnic lunch. In the afternoon, hike through the jungle to the Karen village of Kho Tha (3 to 4 minutes walk). Depending on the time of arrival, a stroll around the village is possible. Overnight at the inhabitant's house.
Day 11: Khota River and Umphang
Early morning and departure for a hike on a trail along the Khota River (2.5 hours of walking).
Lunch in the village and rest, and discovery of the Palatha waterfalls (possibility of swimming) before returning to Umphang by vehicle (1 hour). Collection of travel bags left in Umphang. Night in a guest house (Guest House).
Day 12: Drive from Umphang to Kamphaeng Phet
Road to Kamphaeng Phet, a Unesco World Heritage site, an ancient stronghold during the Sukhothai period (about 350 km and 6 hours away). Bike ride to discover the most famous temples before discovering sites less frequented by tourists such as Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Phra That, Sri Iryabot and Wat Chang Rop (4 to 5km, about 1.5 hours of bike ride). Overnight at the hotel.
Day 13: Kampaeng Phet to Ayutthaya
This morning, drive to Ayutthaya (280 km, about 4 hours), Founded in the 14th century, it was the capital of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya until its destruction in 1767 by the Burmese army. This city is known for its ruins of Buddhist temples, the remains of its Buddhist temples, palaces and sculptures are now classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Arrival for lunch time. In the afternoon, take a bike ride to discover the lifestyles and culture of the Sai Noi community. Invitation to participate in a Thai boxing training. Possibility to participate in the preparation of dinner with our hosts. Overnight at the inhabitant's house.
Last day
Early departure to attend the traditional Buddhist Tak Bat ceremony, during which monks beg for food from worshipers who make offerings to them.
Day 15: Return to France
Transfer to the airport and return international flight.
NB: depending on the airline used, the return flight may involve a departure from Bangkok on D14, at night on the plane, with a D15 arrival, or a night at the hotel on D14 and a dayflight on D15.
The course of this program is indicative. It may undergo modifications or adjustments, depending on technical criteria, safety requirements or the climatic conditions of the moment. In this case, only those responsible for UCPA supervision are authorized to take the necessary decision (s).
SPOT
Umphang National Park
In the heart of wild nature
Umphang National Park is a natural treasure located in Tak Province, Thailand. This park extends over a vast area of 1,416 square kilometers, offering an incredible diversity of landscapes, including majestic mountains, lush forests, tumultuous rivers, and spectacular waterfalls. It is also home to a variety of fauna and flora, with rare species such as the gibbon monkey, the Indochinese tiger (the chances of seeing them are extremely slim, these animals are very discreet and generally avoid humans) and the Asian elephant. Umphang is also famous for the Mae Klong trekking trail, which cuts through its territory, offering visitors an unforgettable hiking experience in the heart of the wilderness. Finally, the park is renowned for its picturesque tribal villages and unique local culture, making it a true jewel of rural Thailand.
ABOUT THE TRIP
Equipment Included
Equipment Included
Equipment not included
> 1 large travel bag (no hard suitcase please, to facilitate travel).
> 1 “medium” backpack, with a capacity of 45 to 50 liters (which can contain your personal belongings for 3 days and 2 nights) useful during 2 treks: in the Mae Wang region (from J5 to D7), and in the Umphang National Park region (J9 to J11).
Recommended personal equipment
(Very light clothing)
Shorts and T-shirts
Swimsuit
Lightweight cotton pants
1 rain cape
A cap, sunglasses
A sweater or fleece for the evening (nights are sometimes cool from December to February)
2 towels: 1 for the beach, 1 for the toilet
Toiletries and small personal pharmacy
Flashlight (practical headlight)
Mask and snorkel (rental possible on site)
Bathing shoes
Bring waterproof bags for your camera equipment
To sleep
For your comfort, you can bring a sheet bag.
Provide a comforter with a comfortable temperature of around 10°C for the coldest months (December to February)
Pharmacy
A basic pharmacy is planned on site (bandages, antiseptics, bandages, eye drops...).
It is up to you to supplement with a personal pharmacy, some of which you will find in the “Health formalities” section.
Equipment not included
> 1 large travel bag (no hard suitcase please, to facilitate travel).
> 1 small backpack for the day's things
> 1 “medium” backpack, with a capacity of 45 to 50 liters (which can contain your personal belongings for 3 days and 2 nights) useful during 2 treks: in the Mae Wang region (from J5 to D7), and in the Umphang National Park region (J9 to J11).
Recommended personal equipment
(Very light clothing)
Shorts and T-shirts
Swimsuit
Lightweight cotton pants
1 rain cape
A cap, sunglasses
A sweater or fleece for the evening (nights are sometimes cool from December to February)
2 towels: 1 for the beach, 1 for the toilet
Toiletries and small personal pharmacy
Flashlight (practical headlight)
Mask and snorkel (rental possible on site)
Bathing shoes
Bring waterproof bags for your camera equipment
To sleep
For your comfort, you can bring a sheet bag.
Provide a comforter with a comfortable temperature of around 10°C for the coldest months (December to February)
Pharmacy
A basic pharmacy is planned on site (bandages, antiseptics, bandages, eye drops...).
It is up to you to supplement with a personal pharmacy, some of which you will find in the “Health formalities” section.
formalities administratives
Indicative data for French nationals, valid on 01/03/23: (check their news with the embassy about one month before your departure).
- For a stay of less than 30 days, a visa is not useful. The presentation of the return ticket is sufficient.
Thai Embassy
8, rue Greuze - 75116 Paris - Tel.: 01 56 26 50 50
=> As of July 1, 2022, non-Thai travelers, regardless of their country of origin, no longer need to register before departure on the Thailand Pass website or to bring an insurance certificate.
Covid-19 information:
The Thai government ended the state of health emergency on 1 October 2022.
Travelers entering Thailand by air and land no longer need to produce a vaccination certificate or the result of the COVID-19 RT-PCR test or the professional antigen test (ATK Professional Use) in order to enter Thailand.
People present on Thai territory are invited to respect the health regulations in force in the country.
Travelers entering Thailand must undergo the following new measures prior to departure, depending on their vaccination status:
As these measures are evolving and subject to change without notice, you should in particular consult the sites
> http://www.thaiembassy.fr/fr/voyagecovid/
> https://ddc.moph.go.th/viralpneumonia/eng/index.php
IMPORTANT:
To guarantee your departure, it is imperative to complete the “TRAVEL FORMALITIES” form now in the “Services” section of your personal space: https://www.ucpa.com/ucpa-et-vous/formulaire-apis
In the event that this information is not provided, you risk being denied boarding by the company.
https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/conseils-aux-voyageurs/conseils-par-pays-destination/thailande/
formalities administratives
Indicative data for French nationals, valid on 01/03/23: (check their news with the embassy about one month before your departure).
- VALID PASSPORT in good condition, valid for at least 6 months after the date of entry into Thai territory. Make sure that your passport is not torn, damaged, or contains any particular anomaly.
- For a stay of less than 30 days, a visa is not useful. The presentation of the return ticket is sufficient.
Thai Embassy
8, rue Greuze - 75116 Paris - Tel.: 01 56 26 50 50
=> As of July 1, 2022, non-Thai travelers, regardless of their country of origin, no longer need to register before departure on the Thailand Pass website or to bring an insurance certificate.
Covid-19 information:
The Thai government ended the state of health emergency on 1 October 2022.
Travelers entering Thailand by air and land no longer need to produce a vaccination certificate or the result of the COVID-19 RT-PCR test or the professional antigen test (ATK Professional Use) in order to enter Thailand.
People present on Thai territory are invited to respect the health regulations in force in the country.
Travelers entering Thailand must undergo the following new measures prior to departure, depending on their vaccination status:
As these measures are evolving and subject to change without notice, you should in particular consult the sites
> http://www.thaiembassy.fr/fr/voyagecovid/
> https://ddc.moph.go.th/viralpneumonia/eng/index.php
IMPORTANT:
To guarantee your departure, it is imperative to complete the “TRAVEL FORMALITIES” form now in the “Services” section of your personal space: https://www.ucpa.com/ucpa-et-vous/formulaire-apis
In the event that this information is not provided, you risk being denied boarding by the company.
https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/conseils-aux-voyageurs/conseils-par-pays-destination/thailande/
Physical intensity
You practice a sporting activity throughout the year, on a regular basis or not. But you are able to run for about 1 hour, swim for 30 minutes, or pedal for about 2 hours.
Physical intensity
You practice a sporting activity throughout the year, on a regular basis or not. But you are able to run for about 1 hour, swim for 30 minutes, or pedal for about 2 hours.
Level of expertise
For people who have already gone on a hiking trip and/or practicing endurance physical activity regularly.
Level of expertise
For people who have already gone on a hiking trip and/or practicing endurance physical activity regularly. Start of hikes with a drop in altitude, half-day or “short” day walking time. It is the beginning of the discovery of mountain paths.
Portage
1 week program:
Carrying personal belongings for 5 days and picnics for 2 or 3 days, i.e. 8 to 12 kg.
Carrying personal belongings and picnics for 2 or 3 days, i.e. 10 to 12 kg, for the duration of the stay.
Portage
1 week program:
Carrying personal belongings for 5 days and picnics for 2 or 3 days, i.e. 8 to 12 kg.
2 week program:
Carrying personal belongings and picnics for 2 or 3 days, i.e. 10 to 12 kg, for the duration of the stay.
Restauration
Thai cuisine: restaurants in Bangkok and during transfers.
In ethnic minority villages, meals prepared by the group.
Restauration
Thai cuisine: restaurants in Bangkok and during transfers.
In ethnic minority villages, meals prepared by the group.
Management
Management
Important information
Alternating vehicle trips and two small treks, this trip is for anyone in good health who wants to make a small physical effort to discover magnificent landscapes and traditional civilization.
NB: during the wet season, the terrain can become slippery and make the program more difficult. In addition, the heat of the forest may seem challenging to some.
Apart from these trekking days, you only carry your things for the day.
Raft
Rafting on the Fonce River is accessible to all, and offers class 1 to 3 rapids, which you will pass safely, with competent supervision and adapted equipment.
The program may be modified according to the volume of the rivers, which is greater during the “humid” period than during the “dry” period.
You need to know how to swim 25 m (at least) and be able to put your head under water. You can attest to this ability yourself, or provide a certificate from a qualified authority (French Swimming Federation, lifeguard). (Article 3 of the decree of the Minister of Sport of 4 May 1995).
Biking to Kampaeng Phet and Ayutthaya: no technical difficulties.
Electricity
220 volt. Various socket systems (European, US). Provide a specific adapter.
NB: you are going to participate in an “adventure” program, a travel formula that is totally different from conventional tourist circuits: the discomfort, the unexpected, the health conditions, which we may encounter, suppose everyone has a good spirit of tolerance and a taste for adventure.
Through your active and positive participation, you will contribute to the cohesion and good understanding of the group, which is a guarantee of the success of the trip.
Important information
Alternating vehicle trips and two small treks, this trip is for anyone in good health who wants to make a small physical effort to discover magnificent landscapes and traditional civilization.
2 treks of 3 days: no technical difficulties, you just need to feel able to walk 4 to 5 hours a day in hilly terrain with a backpack containing your personal belongings for 3 and 4 days of trekking. Carriers take care of the water and the food.
NB: during the wet season, the terrain can become slippery and make the program more difficult. In addition, the heat of the forest may seem challenging to some.
Apart from these trekking days, you only carry your things for the day.
Raft
Rafting on the Fonce River is accessible to all, and offers class 1 to 3 rapids, which you will pass safely, with competent supervision and adapted equipment.
The program may be modified according to the volume of the rivers, which is greater during the “humid” period than during the “dry” period.
You need to know how to swim 25 m (at least) and be able to put your head under water. You can attest to this ability yourself, or provide a certificate from a qualified authority (French Swimming Federation, lifeguard). (Article 3 of the decree of the Minister of Sport of 4 May 1995).
Biking to Kampaeng Phet and Ayutthaya: no technical difficulties.
Electricity
220 volt. Various socket systems (European, US). Provide a specific adapter.
NB: you are going to participate in an “adventure” program, a travel formula that is totally different from conventional tourist circuits: the discomfort, the unexpected, the health conditions, which we may encounter, suppose everyone has a good spirit of tolerance and a taste for adventure.
Through your active and positive participation, you will contribute to the cohesion and good understanding of the group, which is a guarantee of the success of the trip.
Health and formalities
Indicative data for French nationals, valid on 01/05/24 (check their news about one month before your departure).
All Covid-19 measures have been lifted in Thailand.
VACCINATIONS: no vaccination is mandatory in Thailand. However, we recommend that you be up to date with standard vaccinations: diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis, typhoid fever, hepatitis A and B, as well as the rubella, mumps-measles (MMR) vaccination for children.
JAPANESE ENCEPHALITIS: this disease, which only exists in Asia, is transmitted by mosquitoes, against which it is essential to protect yourself. As part of a tourist trip, vaccination against Japanese encephalitis is not routinely recommended. Consult your doctor or an international vaccination center.
MALARIA (Consult your doctor or the Institut Pasteur one month before your departure)
It is essential to take anti-malarial treatment for a trip to rural areas of Thailand, and especially in the mountains covered by forests in the northern half of the country (recommendation concerning all programs passing through Bangkok).
On the other hand, malaria is practically absent in the Phuket region.
PROVIDE PERSONAL PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITO BITES (which will prevent you from other viral diseases transmitted by mosquitoes such as dengue, chikungunya, and zika).
WATER: only use bottled water (available everywhere) even to brush your teeth. Avoid vegetable salads, ice cubes and ice cream, so you will avoid any risk of “tourists”.
SWIMMING: no danger on the beaches, but avoid corals that can be sharp and shelter large black urchins (always look underwater before setting foot if you swim around the coral reef), finally, never attempt to swim near the isolated pebbles that often harbor, below the surface of the water, oysters with sharp edges.
Watch out for coral cuts that get infected very quickly. As a general rule, in a tropical environment, any cut should be treated as follows (three times per day):
1/ Wash with soap and mineral water.
2/ Disinfection.
3/ Apply a small band-aid, especially at night.
SUN: you are in the tropics. Do not forget to protect your skin from the sun's rays.
Personal pharmacy
Your current medications
Pain medication (paracetamol type)
Antispasmodic (Spasfon type)
Antiseptic (Betadine type)
Anti-inflammatory
Arnica in capsules or in stick
Bands, plasters and elastoplastic
Water purifying tablets (micropur type) according to your destination
Antiseptic eye drops
Anti-diarrheal
Tire tick
Sterile pads
Tweezers, scissors, safety pins
Sunscreen (total screen and after-sun lotion), mosquito repellent lotion and bite cream,
Disinfectants and healing agents
An antimalarial
An antidiarrheal, antiamoebic
A broad-spectrum antibiotic
Antibacterial hydro-alcoholic gel (hand hygiene), masks (sometimes required on the plane, or certain public places).
Important: No additional travel insurance is included in your registration.
We remind you that it is essential that you have at least a “medical care abroad” guarantee and a “repatriation” guarantee including “search and rescue costs”.
We advise you to consult the General Insurance Conditions pages on our website:
https://www.ucpa.com/assurances
Whatever your insurance, do not forget to take the necessary information with you during your trip abroad: name and contact details (telephone, email) of your assistance company and the number of the contract taken out.
This information will be requested upon arrival by our local correspondent.
https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/conseils-aux-voyageurs/conseils-par-pays-destination/thailande/
Health and formalities
Indicative data for French nationals, valid on 01/05/24 (check their news about one month before your departure).
COVID-19:
All Covid-19 measures have been lifted in Thailand.
VACCINATIONS: no vaccination is mandatory in Thailand. However, we recommend that you be up to date with standard vaccinations: diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis, typhoid fever, hepatitis A and B, as well as the rubella, mumps-measles (MMR) vaccination for children.
JAPANESE ENCEPHALITIS: this disease, which only exists in Asia, is transmitted by mosquitoes, against which it is essential to protect yourself. As part of a tourist trip, vaccination against Japanese encephalitis is not routinely recommended. Consult your doctor or an international vaccination center.
MALARIA (Consult your doctor or the Institut Pasteur one month before your departure)
It is essential to take anti-malarial treatment for a trip to rural areas of Thailand, and especially in the mountains covered by forests in the northern half of the country (recommendation concerning all programs passing through Bangkok).
On the other hand, malaria is practically absent in the Phuket region.
PROVIDE PERSONAL PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITO BITES (which will prevent you from other viral diseases transmitted by mosquitoes such as dengue, chikungunya, and zika).
WATER: only use bottled water (available everywhere) even to brush your teeth. Avoid vegetable salads, ice cubes and ice cream, so you will avoid any risk of “tourists”.
SWIMMING: no danger on the beaches, but avoid corals that can be sharp and shelter large black urchins (always look underwater before setting foot if you swim around the coral reef), finally, never attempt to swim near the isolated pebbles that often harbor, below the surface of the water, oysters with sharp edges.
Watch out for coral cuts that get infected very quickly. As a general rule, in a tropical environment, any cut should be treated as follows (three times per day):
1/ Wash with soap and mineral water.
2/ Disinfection.
3/ Apply a small band-aid, especially at night.
SUN: you are in the tropics. Do not forget to protect your skin from the sun's rays.
Personal pharmacy
Your current medications
Pain medication (paracetamol type)
Antispasmodic (Spasfon type)
Antiseptic (Betadine type)
Anti-inflammatory
Arnica in capsules or in stick
Bands, plasters and elastoplastic
Water purifying tablets (micropur type) according to your destination
Antiseptic eye drops
Anti-diarrheal
Tire tick
Sterile pads
Tweezers, scissors, safety pins
Sunscreen (total screen and after-sun lotion), mosquito repellent lotion and bite cream,
Disinfectants and healing agents
An antimalarial
An antidiarrheal, antiamoebic
A broad-spectrum antibiotic
Antibacterial hydro-alcoholic gel (hand hygiene), masks (sometimes required on the plane, or certain public places).
Important: No additional travel insurance is included in your registration.
We remind you that it is essential that you have at least a “medical care abroad” guarantee and a “repatriation” guarantee including “search and rescue costs”.
We advise you to consult the General Insurance Conditions pages on our website:
https://www.ucpa.com/assurances
Whatever your insurance, do not forget to take the necessary information with you during your trip abroad: name and contact details (telephone, email) of your assistance company and the number of the contract taken out.
This information will be requested upon arrival by our local correspondent.
https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/conseils-aux-voyageurs/conseils-par-pays-destination/thailande/
Weather
Time difference: +5 hours in summer and +6 hours in winter compared to Paris.
Weather
Time difference: +5 hours in summer and +6 hours in winter compared to Paris.
Hosting
Hosting
Transport
Transport
On these companies, the maximum authorized baggage weight may range from 23 to 30 kg in the hold, and up to 5 kg in the cabin within the limits of the authorized dimensions (unless modified by the company).