White-water rafting in Northern Thailand

Posted by Northerner on September 16th, 2011 filed in Adventure

There are several rivers in the northern regions of Thailand where thrill seekers can enjoy an exciting trip on an inflatable raft across rapids and through turbulent white waters. Tour agencies in Chiang Mai mostly offer white-water rafting on the Mae Taeng River 60kms north of the city, but will occasionally run multi-day activity trips which offer rafting on the Pai or Wa rivers as well as trekking, elephant riding and overnight stays in ethnic hilltribe villages.

One of the better known operators of white-water rafting trips is Siam River Adventures. This company offers bespoke activity trips from homestay accommodation at Sop Kai Village in Mae Taeng. Rafting trips are suitable for novices and experienced rafters, and traverse grade three and four rapids.

Veteran guides ensure that people going rafting are fully versed in safety procedures and that lifejackets are buckled securely. The guides are familiar with their territory and are able to ensure that people on the rafts are aware of impending hazards. At the time of the monthly full moon, there are short rafting trips at night. White-water rafting trips begin with the rainy season in July and continue until March.