Chai Machete Tours (ชัยมาเชเต้ ทัวร์)
Chai Machete Tours is a locally run trekking and tour operation based in Chiang Rai, offering guided jungle experiences that go well beyond a standard walking tour. The standout draw is the guides themselves — particularly Chai, whose remarkable bushcraft skills with a machete have become something of a legend among visitors. On treks, guides fashion bamboo cookware and cutlery on the spot, prepare fresh meals using ingredients gathered along the trail, and have even been known to construct working bamboo bazookas for entertainment. The experience feels less like a packaged tour and more like exploring the jungle with a knowledgeable local friend. The operation also offers driver-guided day tours of Chiang Rai's highlights, with past visitors praising guides like June for being professional, safe, and genuinely personable. Multi-day treks are available and have left strong impressions on travellers seeking an immersive experience. Groups may also be brought to the guides' personal gardens, where fresh produce is shared with guests — a detail that reflects the family-oriented hospitality the team is known for. Prospective visitors should note that no website is currently listed, so reaching out directly or booking through a hotel concierge in Chiang Rai is advisable. Given the hands-on, outdoor nature of the tours, sturdy footwear and lightweight clothing suitable for jungle conditions are recommended. The operation appears to be available seven days a week.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Chai Machete Tours (ชัยมาเชเต้ ทัวร์), round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
We went to the two day trekking tour with Mo. It was by far the best your I have ever had in my whole life. It wasn't so much a tour as you walking around in the jungle with a new found friend. I could write in detail all that we did, but it's besides the point. The best thing with this trip is the guide. He will make it awesome, and make you feel at home. As for the a actual trekk, we went through the jungle, up the hills, slept in a the tiny home village of our guide, and then hiked back down. If you're to do only one thing in Chiang Rai, k recommend this trekk, provided you're into hiking. Heck, if you're only doing one hike *anywhere*, I recommend this one!
We had an amazing day exploring Chiang Rai with our wonderful driver, June. June took us to all the highlights and was professional, safe, friendly and so much fun to be around. She was also incredibly knowledgeable and reliable, sharing interesting stories and local insights throughout the day. It truly felt like we were exploring with a friend rather than just a driver. We had the best day and will definitely book with June again next time we are in Chiang Rai. Highly recommended to anyone looking for a memorable, comfortable and enjoyable trip!
Chai is amazing and the day trek was a day I’ll always remember! The tour group name is fitting, chai can do everything with a machete!!! He made the trip very fun (making a bazuka out of bamboo and rock, cutting off bamboo for us to drink water from, etc) and was also very knowledgeable and created an authentic experience. The trek was about 7 miles (11 km) in total and through jungles, farms, villages, waterfalls and ended at a hot spring. Lunch was amazing too. Do this tour for an authentic and educating experience!!!
Location Info
1012/3 Jetyod Rd, Tambon Wiang, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Rai, Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand+66 65 607 1322Tips for Visiting Activities & Tours
Vet Elephant Sanctuaries
Only visit sanctuaries that prohibit riding, use no chains or bullhooks, and let elephants roam freely. Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai set the standard. If a place offers painting shows or circus tricks, walk away.
Book Through Klook or GetYourGuide
These platforms offer instant confirmation, free cancellation on most activities, and prices that are often lower than walk-up rates. Compare with local agencies for multi-day trips where negotiation might save more.
Do Outdoor Activities in the Morning
Heat and humidity peak from noon to 3 PM. Schedule jungle treks, cycling tours, and outdoor cooking classes for early morning. Water activities are more flexible since you're in and out of the sea.
Also Popular in Chiang Rai
Rong Suea Ten Temple
Monumental, modern Buddhist temple distinguished by its vivid blue coloring & elaborate carvings.
Wat Rong Khun
Contemporary Buddhist temple drawing massive crowds with its unique, intricate white exterior.
Wat Huay Pla Kang
Temple complex featuring a 9-floor pagoda with 12 surrounding structures & a giant Buddha.
Choui Fong Tea Plantation
A working hillside tea plantation in Chiang Rai offering scenic terraces, tea tasting, food, and a shop.
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Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – September
Avg. temperature
14°C – 35°C(57°F – 95°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Mae Fah Luang Airport (CEI) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). Bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. Scenic Golden Triangle road trip from Chiang Mai.
Getting around
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Songthaews
- •Motorbike rental (฿200/day)
- •Car hire (for Golden Triangle & hill tribes)