Chai Machete Tours

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.