Chiang Rai Group Tours & Trip Packages

Chiang Rai Group Tours & Trips

65 Chiang Rai trips. Tours from 35 tour companies. 55 reviews. 5/5 avg rating.

28 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
My selections:
Group Tour
Wonders of Thailand Discovering Ancient Wonders and Natural Beauty from Bangkok to Phuket - 2024
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Why we love them
With a history that spans back to 1918, they have unparalleled expertise in the guided tour industry and can cater to all types of travelers.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Sukhothai

Highlights

  • Savor the sweet, spicy, and salty flavors of Bangkok’s famous street food.
  • Join a Lanna family, thought to be the first people of Thailand, for a home-hosted meal.
  • Zip around the buzzing city streets of Bangkok on a tuk tuk.
  • Trek by 4x4 vehicle to an elephant sanctuary where you will prepare tasty treats for the endangered residents.
  • Explore the canals of Bangkok’s old town on a boat trip.
Show more

Themes

Cultural

What travelers are saying

"It was a wonderful trip and experience! We are still sorting all the pictures and memories about it, and some of them I would like to share with you - read my diary about this trip! My Diary about our trip to South Dakota shorturl.at/efoX1"

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
From Siam to Saigon: Thailand & Vietnam Revealed
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Ha Long Bay, Ho Chi Minh, Hoi An

Highlights

  • See the floral market at Pakklong Talad
  • Visit the Royal Barge Museum
  • Enjoy a tour of Bangkok
  • Visit to Bangkok's oldest temple, Wat Pho
  • See the colossal statue of the reclining Buddha.
Show more

Themes

Cultural, Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Religious

What travelers are saying

"This letter is effectively what was communicated no less than 8 times in writing and conversation to OAT representatives up the chain, beginning 19 days before the trip. OAT was IMMOVABLE on allowing us to find an alternative travel companion and it was 100% due to rigid policy, not real barriers. We never expected a refund and wouldn't have blamed them if we could not fill my spot. They refused to even give us the opportunity. Appalling and sadly representative of their customer service. Congratulations, you lost two customers and one long time referral source. I only think it is fair that folks know the nature of the company at this point. An absolute shame. As a dedicated Edmund Hillary member of OAT with a history of introducing countless friends to your service including 4 who booked trips, I am writing to express my deep concern over the handling of our Galapagos trip booking in light of a recent medical emergency. This situation not only highlights significant gaps in customer communication and care but also underscores the need for immediate, effective action. Timeline of Events and Communication Issues: Initial Contact on 11/22: We contacted OAT 19 days before the trip, scheduled for 12/11, as soon as it became clear that extended surgical complications would prevent my travel. Policy of No Refunds or Changes Under 30 Days: We were informed that the trip is non-refundable under 30 days, which is understood. However, OAT also refused to allow a replacement traveler, posing zero risk to the company. Both of us called, met with the same response. Response from Exceptions Department on 11/22: The no-change policy was reiterated by the Exceptions Department on the same day. Written Escalation on 11/22: Both parties sent written letters to escalate the matter. Delayed Response Until 11/29: We did not receive any response until 11/29, with OAT mentioning the inability to make changes 12 days before the trip. Policy vs. Practical Reasons: The response seemed more policy-based than practical. We offered to cover the cost for a replacement traveler for the internal Galapagos flight, which was declined. The rep always returned to the policy prohibiting it. She further added we do not sell trips within 30 days. Upon looking the next day, I found no less than 7 different itineraries with no less than 13 different trips that I could have booked within 30 days. Further Escalation Request and Conversation on 11/30: A further request for escalation resulted in a 23-minute conversation on 11/30 without any change. Given these circumstances, I propose the following practical solution: Future Travel Credit in Exchange for Re-Selling My Space: If finding a substitute traveler is unfeasible, I suggest OAT resell my space to another interested party, crediting me for a future trip. This solution aligns with my preference and ongoing loyalty to OAT. The lack of a constructive response and rigid adherence to policy without considering exceptional circumstances is alarming. It not only affects this immediate trip but also impacts my ability to continue advocating for OAT in good conscience. An amicable and prompt resolution to this issue would speak volumes about OAT's commitment to customer satisfaction and flexibility. Unless there is a prompt and constructive resolution to this matter, we will be forced to escalate our concerns further. This includes reaching out to higher management within OAT, engaging with consumer protection agencies, sharing our experience through travel forums, and social media for breach of service. Our preference is to resolve this amicably, yet the current trajectory leaves us little choice but to pursue these avenues. I implore you to seriously consider these options and respond in a manner that reflects OAT's values of empathy and customer support. Your immediate attention to this matter is not only appreciated but necessary for a resolution that respects both parties' interests. Thank you for your understanding and prompt attention to this critical issue."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
Independent Thailand: Bangkok, the Beach & Beyond
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Very Easy

Visits

Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket

Themes

50 plus, Cultural

What travelers are saying

"This tour has amazing sites, good hotels in great locations, great pace BUT the tour director that was assigned to be with our small group added nothing to the experience. He did not give us any info, tell us about what we were seeing, give us any info at all. The only time he talked was to tell us when the next bathroom break would be. Apparently this is common for Globus to use retirees starting another chapter. Our guide was 76 and had no energy. Travel with Gate 1 or Intreped.... guides can make or break a tour."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
Independent Cambodia & Thailand: From Angkor Wat to the Beaches of Phuket
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Very Easy

Visits

Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Siem Reap

Themes

50 plus, Cultural

What travelers are saying

"This tour has amazing sites, good hotels in great locations, great pace BUT the tour director that was assigned to be with our small group added nothing to the experience. He did not give us any info, tell us about what we were seeing, give us any info at all. The only time he talked was to tell us when the next bathroom break would be. Apparently this is common for Globus to use retirees starting another chapter. Our guide was 76 and had no energy. Travel with Gate 1 or Intreped.... guides can make or break a tour."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
Independent Highlights of Thailand
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Very Easy

Visits

Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai

Themes

50 plus, Cultural

What travelers are saying

"This tour has amazing sites, good hotels in great locations, great pace BUT the tour director that was assigned to be with our small group added nothing to the experience. He did not give us any info, tell us about what we were seeing, give us any info at all. The only time he talked was to tell us when the next bathroom break would be. Apparently this is common for Globus to use retirees starting another chapter. Our guide was 76 and had no energy. Travel with Gate 1 or Intreped.... guides can make or break a tour."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
Independent Highlights of Cambodia & Thailand
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Very Easy

Visits

Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Siem Reap

Themes

50 plus, Cultural

What travelers are saying

"This tour has amazing sites, good hotels in great locations, great pace BUT the tour director that was assigned to be with our small group added nothing to the experience. He did not give us any info, tell us about what we were seeing, give us any info at all. The only time he talked was to tell us when the next bathroom break would be. Apparently this is common for Globus to use retirees starting another chapter. Our guide was 76 and had no energy. Travel with Gate 1 or Intreped.... guides can make or break a tour."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More

Unlock Community Benefits

Travel better together

  • Save favorite trips and itineraries
  • Get insider insights
  • Receive personalized recommendations
  • ... and much more
Join community
15 Day Kaleidoscope of Thailand with River Kwai
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
3.7/5 Great
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Ayutthaya, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Sukhothai

Highlights

  • In Bangkok, visit serene Wat Po, home of the astonishing giant Reclining Buddha, over 150 feet long Visit the buzzing and vividly colorful Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Walk the bridge over the River Kwai & explore the War Museum Visit to impressive Ayutthaya Historical Park, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site Explore historical Sukhothai, capital of the first Kingdom of Siam Visit the House of Opium & Golden Triangle Discover Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep Temple, the most sacred temple in Northern Thailand Authentic Thai dinner at a Chiang Mai private home

Themes

50 plus, Cultural

What travelers are saying

"We have loved Gate 1 and always sing their praises. We've been on 7 tours with another one booked for fall. We were supposed to leave for Ecuador this week, however the country is in a 60 day state of emergency with the escape of 2 infamous gang members. Tourists are advised to stay indoors and there is a daily curfew from 11pm-5am. (our flight was to land at 11:15pm). Our trip included stays in 2 of the main cities of unrest. There have been shootings, car bombings, hostage taking, closing of embassies, and other countries issuing do not travel warnings. Other tour companies have cancelled tours or offered refunds or rescheduling. Travel insurance does not cover wars or civil unrest, but we are clearly afraid to go there. Both we and our travel agent have reached out multiple times with our concerns and asked if we could reschedule or get some sort of credit. We continue to get the same reply either in person or via email...Gate 1 has your safety as our highest priority and we feel you are safe ("they are not targeting tourists") and your itinerary should not be impacted. What? Their highest priority is $ and not our safety. There is no way that's the tour we anticipated. We cancelled the trip and took a 90% penalty, loss of deposit, and $276 airline penalty. It's a LOT of money, but we would have been terrified, and it's not worth getting hurt or worse. Sorry, but it's not the company I want to do business with in the future."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
18 Day Classic Thailand with Laos & Cambodia
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
3.7/5 Great
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Angkor Wat, Ayutthaya, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Luang Prabang, Siem Reap, Sukhothai

Highlights

  • In Bangkok, visit serene Wat Po, home of the astonishing giant Reclining Buddha, over 150 feet long Visit Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, used as a summer palace by the Siamese royalty Marvel at Chai Wattanaram Temple, one of Ayutthaya’s most impressive remaining monuments Explore Historical Sukhothai, capital of the first Kingdom of Siam Visit the House of Opium and Golden Triangle Discover Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep Temple, the most sacred temple in Northern Thailand Authentic Thai dinner at Chiang Mai private home Experience a Baci Ceremony and Luang Prabang Night Market Cruise the Mekong River and visit the Royal Palace Museum Stand in awe at the architectural masterpiece of Angkor Wat Temple Complex In Siem Reap enjoy an ox-cart ride and visit the National Museum

Themes

50 plus, Cultural

What travelers are saying

"We have loved Gate 1 and always sing their praises. We've been on 7 tours with another one booked for fall. We were supposed to leave for Ecuador this week, however the country is in a 60 day state of emergency with the escape of 2 infamous gang members. Tourists are advised to stay indoors and there is a daily curfew from 11pm-5am. (our flight was to land at 11:15pm). Our trip included stays in 2 of the main cities of unrest. There have been shootings, car bombings, hostage taking, closing of embassies, and other countries issuing do not travel warnings. Other tour companies have cancelled tours or offered refunds or rescheduling. Travel insurance does not cover wars or civil unrest, but we are clearly afraid to go there. Both we and our travel agent have reached out multiple times with our concerns and asked if we could reschedule or get some sort of credit. We continue to get the same reply either in person or via email...Gate 1 has your safety as our highest priority and we feel you are safe ("they are not targeting tourists") and your itinerary should not be impacted. What? Their highest priority is $ and not our safety. There is no way that's the tour we anticipated. We cancelled the trip and took a 90% penalty, loss of deposit, and $276 airline penalty. It's a LOT of money, but we would have been terrified, and it's not worth getting hurt or worse. Sorry, but it's not the company I want to do business with in the future."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
Travelstride Gift Card
One card, thousands of extraordinary trips
Gifts Card

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:

  • You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
  • Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics
Design custom trip
28 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
My selections:
Group Tour
...

1

2

...

Chiang Rai Reviews & Ratings

5/5  Excellent
55  Reviews
See all Chiang Rai tour reviews
Excellent
8
Great
0
Average
0
Disappointing
0
Terrible
0
K

Kim

Mar 2024

Written on

Customized Tour

I didn’t take this tour exactly, but made some changes based on my schedule and interests and travel dates. It was my first time in Southeast Asia and I was a travel...

A

Alex

Sep 2015

Written on

Really had a positive experience. Rong had

Really had a positive experience. Rong had a very p...

B

Benjamin

Sep 2015

Written on

The small group with an amazing guide

The small group with an amazing guide made for a great trip.

J

Jon

Mar 2020

Written on

Has now put Explore on top of

Has now put Explore on top of my list of preferred ...

J

Jon

Mar 2020

Written on

Top of my list of preferred travel operators

Has now put Explore on top of my list of preferred ...

Write a Review

Chiang Rai Tour Selection Trips

  • Some tours of Chiang Rai view it only as a quick stopover from nearby Chiang Mai, or Bangkok. If you are really interested in the area, make sure you spend at least a couple of days in the city to get a better feel for it.
  • The tourist industry in Chiang Rai is a lot less developed than in Chiang Mai, which means its a lot less likely that the average Thai person will speak English to help with directions, a menu, or just generally chat. For this reason, it’s highly recommended that you take a guided tour of the city.
  • It is very difficult to reach some of  the out-of-city locations, such as the Black and White Temples, by public transportation. If you are on a tour, expect to be taken to these sites by coach or car.

Additional details

When to Visit Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai has nearly the same climate the nearby, and much larger, Chiang Mai, which is only three hours away. You are likely seeing them both in one fell swoop, and the best time to travel to both of them is during the cool season.

This falls between November to February, and is the time of year with the lowest temperatures and amount of humidity. Average highs are in the high seventies (Fahrenheit) during this time, so it’s very comfortable weather to be outside in, and you won’t have to worry too much about the rain.

Festivals in Thailand

With that being said, there are several festivals that occur during this time that you may want to plan you trip around. These festivals happen at the largest scale in Chiang Mai, but are still important in planning your trip in Chiang Rai.

In early November, the larger of the two cities celebrates the Yee Peng and Loy Krathong festivals in honor of the full moon, and it is one of the most exciting times to be in the city. During this festival, floating lanterns are released into the sky, Buddhist monks meditate, and there is a generally joyous atmosphere. In February, Chiang Mai also celebrates a totally different holiday with their yearly flower festival.

If you plan on traveling during the off-season during the hottest season of the year (which takes place from March to May), try to plan your trip in April. This is when Songkran, or Thai New Year, is celebrated with a massive water festival.
Monsoon season happens during the remaining months of the year, and is not the most ideal time to make the trip to Chiang Rai.

Chiang Rai Caves

One other main attraction in Chiang Rai is its deep systems of tropical caves. Many of these caves have never been explored, while others are popular tourist attractions in which guides lead several tours a day.

You may have most recently heard about Chiang Rai’s caves in all of the reporting during the summer 2018, when a young Thai soccer team became trapped in one cave.

The boys entered the cave during the monsoon season, and the cave flooded rapidly as a tropical storm struck while they were inside. It took several weeks, and aid from multiple countries before the entire team could be rescued.

Despite this tragic incident, there are still plenty of places to go caving in Chiang Rai very safely! Of course, it is always recommended that you go with a guide. One popular cave is Tham Ku Kaeo, which houses several spiritual shrines within it, and also has a good 30 minute route to explore into the cave. If you want to see the incredible cave where the boys were trapped, it is located in the bordertown of Mae Si, and is called Tham Luang, or Great Cave.

Always Find the Best

On Travelstride you can find 65 trips to Chiang Rai and more than 20,000 trips worldwide ranging from budget to luxury and private guided to group tours and everything in between. Only on Stride can you find and compare expert-planned trips from 1,000+ tour operators, cruise lines and local experts. Read traveler and professional reviews so you can confidently find your perfect trip.

Top Tour Companies on Travelstride:
All 1,600+ companies >
Sign in to reveal savings up to $700 per person!