Northern Thailand Hilltribes Trek - 5 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the physical rating of this trek?

  This trek has an 'Active' physical rating of 3.

• What type of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

  You will stay in hotels for one night and basic multi-share huts for three nights. Accommodation is simple, with small rooms and potentially shared toilet and shower facilities, aiming for an authentic experience.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners. Generally, other meals are not included to provide flexibility in choosing your dining options.

• Are international flights included in the price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the tour price.

• What are the age requirements for this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. Minors aged 12 and above may travel with a guardian over 21 years old.

• Is there a single supplement for solo travelers?

  Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, so there is no single supplement. Single travelers are typically paired in twin or multi-share rooms with someone of the same sex. A 'My Own Room' option, if booked, provides a single room for all hotel nights.

• Are there any optional activities available?

  No, there are no optional activities specified for this trip.

• What currency should I use, and what are the best ways to carry money?

  The local currency is the Thai Baht. Debit cards for ATM withdrawals (Visa and Mastercard) are recommended. It's a good idea to carry some USD cash for emergencies. Avoid old or damaged USD notes.

• Is tipping customary, and what are the recommendations?

  Tipping is customary in Asia, typically around 10% for service providers. For drivers and local guides, $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day is suggested. For your CEO, a guideline of $20-$25 USD per person per week is appreciated.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for Thailand?

  All countries require a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity). Most nationalities do not need a visa for stays of 30 days or less. From May 1, 2025, all non-Thai nationals entering by air, land, or sea must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online at least 3 days before arrival. Please check with your local embassy for the most up-to-date information.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory and required to participate. It must include medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue.

• Are there any health considerations or medical requirements for this trip?

  It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and required inoculations well before departure. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and hand sanitizers.

• How should I dress to respect local customs?

  In Asia, conservative dress is recommended. Pack loose, lightweight, long clothing. When visiting temples or holy sites, please dress respectfully, avoiding very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops.

• What rules should I know regarding conduct on the trip?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated and possessing or using them can lead to expulsion. Exploitation of prostitutes is also not acceptable. Your CEO has the right to expel any group member violating these rules.

• What safety and security precautions are advised?

  We recommend using a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, leaving expensive jewelry at home, and using hotel safety deposit boxes. A lock for luggage is also suggested. Your CEO can amend the itinerary for safety reasons. During free time, use good judgment for optional activities, stay in small groups, and use taxis at night in major cities. Avoid protest areas, and water-based activities are at your own risk.

• How large will the group be?

  The maximum group size is 16 travelers, with an average of 5.

• Who will be leading the group on this tour?

  The tour will be led by a CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, supported by specialist trekking guides in the local areas.

• What unique cultural experiences are part of this trek?

  You'll trek to remote Lahu and Karen villages, assist with food preparation and cooking, learn about bush food and medicinal plants, and discover traditional crafts like wood carving and weaving. In Ban Jabo, you'll learn about Lahu culture and try traditional activities.

• Are there any specific itinerary notes or seasonal considerations?

  Between March and April, traditional slash and burn farming may occur, leading to alternative trek routes to avoid smoky areas. Additionally, the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is required for entry from May 1, 2025.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation includes open pickup trucks, vans, trekking on foot, and bamboo rafts for exploring caves.

• What is the main focus of the Northern Thailand Hilltribes Trek?

  The main focus is to trek into the mountains to meet Thailand's remote Lahu and Karen hilltribe communities, explore deep caves by bamboo raft, and marvel at the lush jungle scenery.

• What types of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

  You will stay in hotels for 1 night and basic, multi-share huts in local guesthouses for 3 nights. Accommodation in these areas will be simple, and facilities may be shared.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3, meaning it is considered an 'Active' travel style.

• What is the minimum and maximum age to join this tour?

  The minimum age to join is 12 years, and the maximum age is 100 years.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16, with an average of 5 participants.

• What meals are included during the trek?

  The tour includes 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners.

• Who will be leading the tour?

  A Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will lead the tour, accompanied by specialist trekking guides from the local communities.

• What currency should I use, and how should I carry money?

  The local currency is Thai Baht. It is recommended to carry money via debit cards for ATM withdrawals (Visa and Mastercard are generally accepted). USD cash (new, good condition notes) is also recommended for situations where ATMs are not accessible. Credit cards can be used at some larger establishments.

• Is an emergency fund recommended for this trip?

  Yes, it is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $250 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances that might require a change to the planned route.

• Is tipping customary on this tour?

  Yes, tipping service providers like waiters (around 10%) is customary. For drivers and local guides, $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day is a guideline. For your CEO, $20-25 USD per person per week is a suggested amount if you feel they did an outstanding job.

• What is the recommended dress code to respect local customs?

  In Asia, a more conservative dress standard is expected. Loose, lightweight, long clothing that covers knees and shoulders is recommended, especially when visiting temples or holy sites. Avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops.

• Are there any health considerations I should be aware of?

  It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and any required inoculations before departure. Carrying a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers, and personal medications (with full drug names) is recommended.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. It must include a minimum of USD 200,000 medical coverage for repatriation and emergency rescue. Proof of insurance will be required by your CEO.

• What is Planeterra's involvement with this tour?

  Planeterra is a non-profit foundation that collaborates with the tour operator to help local communities earn income from tourism, supporting indigenous people, empowering women, and protecting the environment through community-owned businesses.

• Are there any seasonal considerations that might affect the trek route?

  During a 2-week period between March and April (start date varies), traditional slash and burn farming occurs. The trek may follow an alternate route to avoid uncomfortably smoky areas during this time.

• Are there any special entry requirements for Thailand as of May 2025?

  As of May 1, 2025, all non-Thai nationals entering Thailand by air, land, or sea must complete the Thailand E-Arrival form online at least 3 days before arrival.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation includes open pickup trucks, vans, trekking, and bamboo rafts.