10 Day Motorcycle Tour (Amazing Thailand) from Chiang Mai

Taking a motorcycle trip through northern Thailand sounds like a wild adventure, and this 10-day tour from Chiang Mai delivers on almost every front. With an itinerary packed with panoramic mountain views, cultural visits, and thrilling roads, it’s designed for those who crave the freedom of riding and the chance to see Thailand in a truly authentic way. From the highest peak of Doi Inthanon to the busy streets of Chiang Rai’s White Temple, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.

What we love most? The expertly curated route includes some of the most fun biking roads in the world—like the famed R1148 highway—and visits to unique cultural spots, such as the long-neck Karen tribe village and the opulent Doi Tung Royal Villa. Plus, the quality of the accommodation, the friendliness of guides, and the support support make it feel like a well-organized trip with genuine care.

A potential consideration is the physical demand of long riding days—some stretches exceed 380 km—and the need for competent riding skills. This trip is best suited for those comfortable with winding mountain roads and eager to handle some challenging curves. Overall, it’s suitable for adventure-loving travelers who want more than just sightseeing, craving an active exploration in a stunning setting.

If you’re looking for a balance of adventure, culture, and scenery, and don’t mind a bit of riding stamina, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

Key Points

• Exceptional route design with some of the best biking roads in Thailand
• Cultural highlights including hill tribes, temples, and the Golden Triangle
• Quality accommodation and delicious Thai cuisine included in the price
• Support and guidance from experienced guides like Noah, Ohm, and Kop
• Long riding days require good stamina and confidence on winding roads
• Authentic experiences like visiting local markets and tribal villages

The Adventure Begins: A Complete Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: Chiang Mai to Mae Sariang – The Mountain Start

The journey kicks off heading south from Chiang Mai, winding through Doi Inthanon National Park—the highest point in Thailand at 2,565 meters. The ride itself is a highlight, with excellent mountain roads and pine forest scenery that set the tone for the trip. Expect to see Thailands’ finest waterfall, explore nature trails, and visit royal pagodas and botanical gardens.

Reviewers rave about the route: “The roads are perfect for motorbiking,” says one, emphasizing the smooth, winding mountain roads. Descending into Mae Sariang, near the Myanmar border, offers a peaceful retreat after a 7-hour day of riding.

Day 2: Mae Sariang to Pai via Mae Hong Son

The second day is an absolute highlight for thrill-seekers—twisties and hairpins abound as you ride the narrow, curvy roads to Mae Hong Son, passing through charming towns like Khun Yuam, where a WWII museum is a nice break. The visit to Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu offers panoramic views, and the Su Tong Pae Bamboo Bridge—claimed to be Thailand’s longest bamboo bridge—is a must-see.

Then, onto Pai, a town loved for its relaxed vibe. At 7 hours, this day is demanding but rewarding. The scenery is lush, and the riverfront accommodation with a pool provides a perfect spot to unwind. Reviews note how the roads make for fantastic riding, and the local food in Pai’s Walking Street is a treat.

Day 3: Pai to Chiang Dao and Doi Chiang Dao Caves

Early morning starts with a chance to offer food to monks at Pai’s market—an authentic experience. The route then takes you to Chiang Dao, known for the spectacular caves and mountain scenery. This day balances riding with sightseeing, and reviews highlight how the mountain roads feel like “Thailand’s Little Toscana,” offering gorgeous vistas.

You’ll visit Wat Tha Ton and enjoy sunset views from atop the mountain. The accommodation here is charming, and travelers mention how relaxing it feels to unwind by the river after a long day.

Day 4: Golden Triangle and Long-Neck Tribes

This day is packed with cultural and scenic highlights. Crossing into the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet, is a classic stop. A boat trip on the Mekong offers the chance to see life along the river, and a visit to the Opium Museum adds depth to the cultural experience.

The trip also includes visiting the long-neck Karen tribe village, a fascinating, photos-worthy stop. The ride through Doi Mae Salong, a mountain tea farming region, is a favorite among reviewers as they taste some of Thailand’s best tea. The peaceful riverside accommodation at the end of the day is also praised.

Day 5: Chiang Rai’s White Temple to Nan

The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) is a jaw-dropping sight, often called one of the top wonders of the world. After exploring the intricate architecture, the trip continues south to Nan, a town that offers a mix of scenic views and local charm. A notable highlight is the Nan hilltop temple, which reviews describe as “spectacular” at sunset.

Most travelers note that riding the mountainous highway to Nan provides fantastic curves and scenery, making it a true rider’s paradise.

Day 6: Leisure and Local Exploration in Nan

A rest day to enjoy Nan at your leisure. Many take the opportunity to relax by the pool, explore the town, or rent bicycles to see sights like local markets or hidden temples. This day is mainly about soaking up the relaxed atmosphere and recharging for the next adventures.

Day 7: Nan to Phayao via Bo Kluea Salt Wells

This day features riding through Doi Phu Kha National Park and the famous R1081 road, known as a motorcyclist’s dream. The highlight is the Bo Kluea salt wells, a unique natural feature. The route then takes you to Phayao, home to a beautiful lake, Kwan Phayao, which many say is one of the largest in Thailand.

Accommodation in Phayao offers a tranquil base and great views, setting the stage for the next day’s ride.

Day 8: Phayao to Uttaradit, Crossing Sirikit Dam

A scenic route through Mae Yom National Park and Khun Sathan National Park makes for spectacular riding. Crossing the Sirikit Dam by wooden ferry is a special experience—reviewers point out how the largest earth dam in Thailand offers a memorable crossing.

Uttaradit is a quiet, less-visited town, perfect for travelers wanting to avoid tourist crowds. The day’s riding offers breathtaking scenery and a sense of adventure.

Day 9: Uttaradit to Sukhothai

This is a shorter riding day, giving you time to explore the UNESCO-listed Sukhothai Historical Park. The ancient ruins are a highlight, with many reviewers mentioning the beautiful sunset over the historic site as a magical moment. The guesthouse accommodation, with its classic Thai wooden style and pool, adds charm to the experience.

Day 10: Sukhothai to Chiang Mai

Returning to Chiang Mai via the Columnar Mountains, this day offers a mix of scenic riding and cultural sites like the reclining Buddha in Den Chai. The final stretch includes passing through national parks, giving a fitting conclusion to this diverse journey.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The route is carefully curated for riders who love winding mountain roads, with a focus on roads ranked among the best in the world. The support from guides like Noah, Ohm, and Kop is consistently praised for their professionalism, knowledge, and friendliness. They’re known for keeping the group informed, ensuring safety, and creating a welcoming atmosphere.

The accommodation quality is another strong point. Travelers mention staying in comfortable hotels, guesthouses, and resorts with leisure facilities like pools—perfect for unwinding after long days on the bike. Included meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are generally well-received, with plenty of fresh Thai dishes that satisfy even the most discerning food lovers.

The cultural stops—such as hill tribe villages, temples, and the opulent Doi Tung Royal Villa—add layers to the experience, making it more than just a ride through scenic landscapes. Many reviews highlight how genuine and immersive these visits feel, giving you insights into local traditions and history.

The value for money is notable, considering it includes motorcycle rental, insurance, guides, support van, and all accommodations and meals. The reviews consistently praise the seamless organization, which allows travelers to relax and focus on the ride.

A word of caution: some days are packed with riding over 380 km, which can be tiring. The tour requires a certain level of riding competence, especially on mountain roads with tight curves and variable surfaces.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This trip is ideal for experienced motorcyclists looking for a challenge and an adventure that combines scenic beauty, cultural discovery, and exhilarating roads. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy long riding days, appreciate authentic local experiences, and want a well-organized, supported trip. The group size is limited to 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and camaraderie.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace, or you’re not comfortable on winding mountain roads, this might be a bit too demanding. However, for those who love the thrill of riding, the stunning scenery, and culture, this tour offers a rich, immersive adventure in one of Thailand’s most captivating regions.

FAQ

How physically demanding is this tour?
Expect long riding days, with some stretches exceeding 380 km. It’s best suited for riders with good stamina and comfort on mountain roads with curves.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
Yes, reviewers mention staying at carefully selected hotels and guesthouses with leisure facilities such as pools, offering a comfortable retreat after riding.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
No, it’s recommended for riders with adequate experience and confidence in handling winding, mountain roads.

What is included in the price?
The price covers motorcycle rental with unlimited mileage, third-party liability insurance, support van, guide services, all accommodations, and meals.

Are there cultural or sightseeing stops?
Absolutely. Highlights include hill tribe villages, temples, waterfalls, the White Temple, and the Golden Triangle. Many stops are highly praised for their authenticity and beauty.

What is the level of support during the trip?
You’ll be guided by experienced professionals like Noah, Ohm, and Kop, who provide expert navigation, safety, and local insights. The support van carries luggage and provides backup.

Can I join solo?
Yes, most reviews mention meeting great people along the way, and the group size is limited to 10 travelers, promoting camaraderie.

What about riding gear?
Riding gear such as helmets, jackets, gloves, and knee guards are provided, ensuring safety and comfort.

Final Thoughts

This 10-day motorcycle tour through northern Thailand offers a well-balanced mix of spectacular riding roads, rich cultural sights, and cozy accommodations. The support from experienced guides and the inclusion of high-quality hotels make it a smooth, enjoyable experience.

It’s a fantastic choice for those who crave adventure, love curvy mountain roads, and want to explore Thailand beyond its famous temples and markets. While the days are long and physically demanding, the diverse scenery, cultural stops, and the camaraderie of fellow riders more than compensate for it.

If you’re looking for a genuine, well-organized motorcycle adventure that combines thrill with cultural discovery, this tour is hard to beat. It’s an excellent way to see Thailand on two wheels, soaking in the scenery, tasting local flavors, and making memories that last a lifetime.