North Thailand by Road Bike

Groups can be from 2 to 16. For groups of 9 or more a second guide joins the tour.

Yes. Riders must be 18 years old by the time the tour starts.

Yes.  The bikes are Trek 2.1 C, Domane 2.0 and carbon Émonda S5 road bikes, with Shimano components and seat posts. If you have your own saddle that you are comfortable with, you are welcome to bring it and the tour operator will fit it. They can also provide strap-styled toe cages if requested, but you might like to consider bringing SPD clip pedals if you use them, and please make sure to bring your shoes and cleats. If you bring your own bike, please make sure it is a road bike in good mechanical order.

This tour is 100% on road, and designed with road bikers in mind. It starts in Chiang Rai with a warm-up ride to get used to your bikes, then the riding begins in earnest. You will be alternating between hilly and flat days, but always start off with a gentle ride before you start climbing.

The total distance is 788 km (489 mi)  in nine riding days on smooth tarmac roads. Some of the distances are quite long, and there are significant ascents and a few steep sections on some days, but there are also a few flat days to let your legs recover. The trip is fully supported, and your guide’s expert knowledge of the area and terrain means that you always know what is coming up in terms of distance and difficulty. This makes a tremendous difference, as does the constant supply of cold drinks, ice, and fresh fruit.

Suitability: This is a tour for cyclists possessing a moderate to high level of physical fitness. Fitness will be a huge asset on those long days and on the undulating hills. The tour is fully supported, and the bus is always close at hand for those who find the riding too difficult.

Biking Conditions: You will ride between 30 and 125 km a day. There are some easy half-day rides, but the daily ascents range from 129 to 2,000 m. The roads are 100% tarmac and in good condition.

A helmet is required to be worn on all biking activities and is non-negotiable. If you do not wear a helmet you won't be allowed to cycle.

The tour leader is trained in first aid and emergency rescue. But to a large degree, riders must be responsible for their own safety during the tour. It is therefore compulsory that you take out travel insurance that will cover  you for a cycling tour.

You are not required to pay a surcharge for travelling alone. The tour operator will arrange for you to share accommodation with another traveller of the same gender. If you cannot be matched, they will provide a single room at no extra charge. If you prefer not to share, a single supplement is payable to guarantee your own room.

The tour starts in Chiang Rai, fly into Mae Fah Luang International Airport (CEI).
The tour ends in Chiang Mai, fly out of Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX).

Yes, if you're hiring a bike from the operator, a complimentary helmet is provided, although you are welcome to bring your own if you wish.