Thailand: Northern Service Adventure

Arrive into Chiang Mai Airport (CNX) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the hotel, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture.

On our first full day, we will jump into the issues. Deforestation is one of the most acute pressures on endangered species and biodiversity. You will delve deep into the topic and spend the day with Chiang Mai University’s Forest Restoration Research Unit. Head up Chiang Mai’s famous Doi Suthep mountain and learn about the different forest types and ongoing efforts to protect and restore the fragile ecosystems. Learn how to identify and propagate different seeds and spend some time working in the onsite nursery. Stop at Doi Suthep Temple to take in the views from this sacred mountain top monument. After a day of learning about reforestation, you will head north to the mountain valley of Chiang Dao.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast then head into the mountains to help with an ongoing village infrastructure project. Working side by side with staff and locals, you will gain pride as you accomplish construction goals for the day and enjoy getting to know those around you even more closely. After wrapping up for the day, you can take time in the afternoon to play soccer with the locals, practice your new Thai vocabulary with our staff and villagers, or find a quiet place to write in your journal. Head back to the hotel in the evening for group games and activities.

Today you will hit the trails and trek through the beautiful scenery that has made Northern Thailand so famous. Explore the beautiful nature and scenery. Our professional and expert guide will point out various flora and fauna and describe how these plants are used in daily life. A lot of the plants around you can be used to help heal and treat all sorts of ailments. The hike will stop at a waterfall that’s perfect for swimming. Once you are back at the Treehouse, you will have a chance to participate in activities organized by your program leaders.

Head put your Thai cooking skills to the test. You will learn how to make some classic dishes, and taste the fruits of your labor! After the cooking class, the group will don helmets for an afternoon bicycle tour through the beautiful countryside. Enjoy a traditional Kan Tok dinner and tell stories around the campfire under a blanket of shimmering stars.

Say goodbye to the Chiang Dao and make your way back to Chiang Mai, but not before stopping along the Mae Taeng River for a white water rafting adventure. This is the perfect way to experience Thailand’s Riparian ecosystems as these waterways are home to many endemic species of birds, fish, and reptiles. The tranquil stretches of river are interspersed with exciting rapids and you are guaranteed have a lot of fun.

Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.