Huai Mae Sai Waterfall
Huai Mae Sai Waterfall sits in the Mae Yao area of Mueang Chiang Rai District, offering a natural escape from the city's temples and markets. The surrounding forest landscape is characteristic of northern Thailand's terrain, with the waterfall serving as a focal point for hiking, photography, and simply cooling off in a quieter, less commercialised setting. It draws nature enthusiasts and day-trippers looking to explore Chiang Rai's outdoor side beyond its more well-known cultural attractions.
The atmosphere here is unhurried and largely undeveloped, which suits visitors who prefer natural settings over polished tourist facilities. The trail to the falls passes through local forest, giving a reasonable sense of the region's flora and terrain. It is a practical choice for those based in Chiang Rai who want a half-day outdoor excursion without travelling far from the city.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Huai Mae Sai Waterfall, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Also Popular in Chiang Rai
Rong Suea Ten Temple
Free to enter, electric blue from floor to ceiling, and quieter first thing in the morning.
Wat Rong Khun
All white plaster and mirror glass, dazzling in the sun, and packed with people from the moment it opens.
Wat Huay Pla Kang
A 79-metre Guan Yin you can climb inside, plus a nine-storey pagoda and hilltop views, all free to enter.
Choui Fong Tea Plantation
A working tea estate where the terraced views, the cafe and the winding road up all pull their weight.
Huai Mae Sai Waterfall: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Huai Mae Sai Waterfall worth visiting?
Huai Mae Sai Waterfall holds a 4.4★ rating from 351 Google reviews — a strong rating for activities & tours in Chiang Rai.
When is the best time to visit Huai Mae Sai Waterfall?
The best months to visit Chiang Rai are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – February — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: March – May (smoke & heat).
Where is Huai Mae Sai Waterfall located?
Huai Mae Sai Waterfall is at 2P38+RP2, Mae Yao, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand, in Chiang Rai. Getting around Chiang Rai: Grab (available in city centre); Songthaews.
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). The bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. There's also a 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)
Where to stay near Huai Mae Sai Waterfall
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Tips 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 Popular Activities Online
Booking platforms like GetYourGuide give you instant confirmation and, on many activities, free cancellation — and you can read recent reviews before committing. 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.
Nearby Places
Doi Bo Viewpoint
A remote hilltop viewpoint near Chiang Rai offering panoramic views, accessible only by 4x4 or confident motorcyclists.
Elephant Peace Project
An ethical elephant sanctuary near Chiang Rai where Karen mahout families offer intimate, responsible wildlife encounters.
Elephant Family Chiang Rai
An ethical elephant sanctuary experience near Chiang Rai offering close encounters with rescued elephants.
Ruammit Elephant Camp
An elephant camp near Chiang Rai where visitors can interact with elephants, though reviews raise welfare concerns.
Similar Activities & Tours Across Thailand
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket
No rides, no shows, just feeding, mud and washing rescued elephants in the Kathu jungle.
Safari World
A full day out east of the city, and the shows are what people remember most.
Nongnooch Pattaya Garden
Half a day minimum, 500 acres of themed gardens and dinosaurs, and you'll want to be there by 8am.
Lumphini Park
Bangkok's green lung, free to enter, and full of water monitor lizards the size of your leg.
Where to stay near Huai Mae Sai Waterfall
Find hotels in Chiang Rai on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
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). The bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. There's also a 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)