Small-Group Stand Up Paddle Boarding on Mae Ping River

Your trip starts with hotel pickup at 8:30am in the Chiang MaI region. After a short stop at the office in town, you start with a 1-hour drive to the beautiful Mae Ngat valley, 40 km north of Chiang Mai. Your river excursion takes you deep into the Mae Taeng Forest Reserve, a natural jewel in this region. The smooth conditions here, with some variation taking seasonal changes in consideration, are perfect for stand up paddle-boarding. Unlike the ocean with wind and waves, here there is year round smooth flowing water allowing you to concentrate on maneuvering the board. Beginners can especially appreciate the smooth grade of the river and the easy drifts.

Your experienced river guide will provide full support during your trip, giving instructions for navigating river currents and helping you brush up on paddle techniques. All equipment such as paddle-board, life jacket, and helmet (if conditions demand) are provided. All boards are suitable for beginners with weight up to 100 kg. Kayaks are also available if requested. All guides speak basic English. Participants joining a group should bring swim gear and if possible water shoes, (shoes size 40 to 45 can be provided). Participants learn to navigate class 1 (easy) currents with various paddling techniques. This is a great workout, some sense of balance and endurance is expected. Stand up paddle-boards however transform quickly into very stable sit or knee down river gliders as conditions for both the rider and the river require.

Lunch is provided after the trip at the Mango Plantation Restaurant. Vegetarian and vegan options are available.