Skip to content
World Travellers RiccartonWorld Travellers Riccarton
  • Destinations
    • Search by Travel Provider
    • Africa
    • Arctic / Antarctica
    • Asia
    • Australia
    • New Zealand
    • South America
    • South Pacific
    • The Middle East
    • UK & Europe
    • USA/Canada/Hawaii
  • About
    • Our Story
    • Meet Our Consultants
  • Blog
  • Business Travel
  • Make a Payment
  • Shop
    • Rental Cars – Driveaway
    • 12 Months Interest Free Travel
    • Book Your Holiday With American Express Membership Rewards
  • Contact

Highlights of Thailand

10 days

  • Package Details
  • Enquire Now
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Travel Insurance by Allianz

Day 1: Bangkok

Priced From:

$2588 pp *

Sales Ends: 31/12/2025

Travel Date: -

TOUR ADVISORS

Tiffany McCrea-Lennon

Managing Director

Russell Mein

Travel Specialist

Caitlin Lennon

Travel Coordinator

Michelle Baldwin

Travel Specialist

Gaylyn Murdoch

Administration Manager

Holly Skene

Travel Co-ordinator

Kim Thomas

Broker

Journey through the Land of Smiles, where spicy delicacies, majestic elephants, golden Buddhas, colourful hilltribe villages, and fantastic markets all come together. Thailand's stunning beauty and charming culture are always present on this 10-day small group adventure. Witness traditional hilltribe life in a Hmong village, support the rehabilitation of the endangered Asian elephant in Chiang Mai, cruise down Bangkok’s famous khlongs, step back in time in the ancient kingdom of Sukhothai and try your hand at creating some delectable Thai dishes. This is your chance to capture the adventure and timeless essence of Thailand.

Itinerary


Day 1: Bangkok

Sa-wat dee, welcome to Thailand! Your adventure begins in the country’s bustling capital, Bangkok, famous for its tuk tuks, khlong boats and street vendors serving up delicious Thai food. A welcome meeting will take place at 6pm tonight where you’ll meet your local leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive in Bangkok with time to spare, you may like to take a riverboat to Chinatown and explore the crowded streets, wander down the tourist mecca of Khao San Road, or indulge in some Thai massage. After the meeting tonight, perhaps get to know your group over dinner at one of the many restaurants surrounding your hotel.

Day 2: Kanchanaburi

Begin the day with a river cruise down the Chao Phraya River to explore the famous ‘khlongs’ (canals). Life along these canals seems a world away from the chaotic streets of the capital. Pay a visit to the magnificent Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The sprawling royal complex houses numerous ornate structures that highlight the grand architectural traditions of Thailand. Later in the day, travel south by private minibus to Kanchanaburi (approximately 2.5 hours). Located where the confluence of the Khwae Noi and Khwae Yai rivers, Kanchanaburi is home to the infamous 'Bridge on the River Kwai'.

Day 3: Kanchanaburi

This morning, make tracks for the Erawan Falls. These terraced waterfalls, named after the three-headed white elephant of Hindu mythology, cascade into a series of emerald green pools – a beautiful place to swim, walk or sit back and relax. After your visit drive to the Hellfire Pass Memorial, built to honour the allied prisoners of war (POWs) and Asian conscripts who died while constructing some of the most difficult stretches of the Thai-Burma Death Railway. You can head out to a teak observation deck and look across to Myanmar just kilometres away. You’ll also see the eponymous pass, cut through rock 18 metres deep, that got its name from the hellish fires used to light the work at night. Boarding at Nam Tok station, the main terminal of the Death Railway, take a ride along the historic tracks along the Kwai Noi River and travel over the original wooden viaduct (the Bridge on the River Kwai) constructed by the allied POWs. Pass through magnificent scenery and spend a moment reflecting on those who were forced to give their lives in the process of bending this environment to man’s will. Tonight, you can explore the rows of street vendors in town and perhaps grab a drink overlooking the River Kwai.

Day 4: Ayutthaya

Head away from Kanchanaburi to Ayutthaya in a private minivan this morning. Once the capital in the Kingdom of Siam, the ruins of palaces, Buddhist temples, monasteries and statues can be found in Ayutthaya’s Historical Park, which you’ll explore this afternoon. Upon arrival in Ayutthaya, explore the photogenic 13th-century ruins of Wat Phra Mahathat and discover rows of Buddhas beheaded by the Burmese. Look out for the displaced Buddha head suspended in the roots of a Banyan tree - one of the country’s most photographed images.

Day 5: Sukhothai

Buckle up for a bit of travelling today. Take a traditional songthaew from your accommodation to the train station, then board a day train to Phitsanuloke. From there, take a minivan to Sukhothai, the historic capital of Siam, Be sure to have your music, podcasts or movies downloaded or a good book handy, as you’ll be sweeping through the countryside on a relaxing travel day. Once arrived at your resort, spend some time in the open air and perhaps have a swim in the onsite pool!

Day 6: Sukhothai

Located on a fertile plain, Sukhothai was established in the 13th century as one of the first ancient capitals of Siam, and the name means the 'Dawn of Happiness'. It’s now famous for its World Heritage-listed Historic Park that celebrates the Golden Age of Thai civilisation. Head out to the historical ruins of Old Sukhothai, set amid beautiful lakes and gardens. The religious art and architecture of the Sukhothai era are considered to be the most classic of Thai styles, and the Sukhothai Historical Park contains the remains of 21 historic sites, with striking Buddha images and four large ponds often filled with stunning lotus flowers in full bloom. Upon arrival at the park, hop on bicycles and enjoy a few leisurely hours learning about the history of this fascinating place, tucking into a tasty picnic lunch at the end of your ride. Have some free time this afternoon before heading to a local house for a Thai-style cooking class. You’ll learn some traditional recipes from the Sukhothai region like chilli pastes, fragrant curries, spicy soups, steamed fish cakes and Thai custard. Your host will help you prepare these dishes and will assist you in making a delicious spread to share at the end.

Day 7: Hmong Hilltribe Lodge

Take a minivan on a drive north to the Hmong Hilltribe Lodge in picturesque hilly countryside. Set in a peaceful valley of a scenic mountain range and surrounded by stunning natural landscapes of jungle and mountains, the Hmong lodge offers a unique and tranquil experience. It's a great escape from the hustle and bustle of busy tourist spots. The rooms are simple and rustic, fitting perfectly with the natural environment. Be sure to pack a warm jumper as the weather will be mild and cool year-round due to the lofty mountain location. The Hmong are an ethnic minority in Thailand who originated in central China, and today they make up the second largest hilltribe group in Thailand. After a barbecue dinner in the lodge's open-air dining area, the day concludes with a cultural performance by the Hmong people. You'll gain an insight into the traditional lifestyle of the tribe, with a wedding ceremony enactment, shamanic ritual and makong (cotton ball) throwing.

Day 8: Chiang Mai

Transfer by private vehicle to Chiang Mai, the most vibrant city in northern Thailand and home to many famous temples and an interesting old city area. Renowned for dazzling beauty and extremely welcoming locals, the ‘Rose of the North’ will leave you spellbound. Chances are, you won’t want to leave. In the late afternoon, embark on a scenic, winding drive up a mountain to one of the country's most stunning temple complexes, Doi Suthep. A 300-step naga-guarded stairway leads you to the temples, and the climb is well worth the effort. The hypnotic atmosphere of chanting Buddhist monks and sweeping views of the city make this a memorable experience. Your leader can help you to arrange optional activities for your free time today – you can get active with a bicycle tour to discover the city and surrounding countryside from a different perspective, indulge in a Thai massage or a spa treatment, or just relax with a book by the pool.

Day 9: Chiang Mai

Today is set to be one to remember as you visit the ChangChill elephant reserve – a truly special experience. Drive out to the reserve and learn how this organisation supports the protection, conservation and lifestyle of free roaming elephants in the region. You’ll observe the daily patterns of these jungle giants from a safe distance, seeing how they graze and socialise with their other friends. The expert local guides will give you a live lecture on the elephants as well as the reserve’s sustainable tourism practices and conservation efforts in the area. Enjoy some refreshments near the elephant’s mud pit, then be treated to lunch in a riverside sala (pavilion) alongside your giant friends, who will be enjoying a meal too. On your way back to Chiang Mai, stop by Kaomai Estate 1955 cafe for a coffee – this eclectic tobacco factory-turned-cafe holds a Cultural Heritage Conservation for New Design accreditation from UNESCO. This evening, get together for a final group dinner in town and celebrate today’s unforgettable experience.

Day 10: Chiang Mai

With no activities planned for today, you are free to leave the accommodation at any time.

Departure Dates


Start DateEnd DatePrice 
Aug 8, 2025Aug 17, 2025$3,520.00
Sep 5, 2025Sep 14, 2025$2,588.00
Oct 3, 2025Oct 12, 2025$3,580.00
Oct 17, 2025Oct 26, 2025$3,360.00
Oct 24, 2025Nov 2, 2025$3,325.00
Oct 31, 2025Nov 9, 2025$3,875.00
Nov 4, 2025Nov 13, 2025$3,510.00
Nov 7, 2025Nov 16, 2025$3,510.00
Nov 11, 2025Nov 20, 2025$3,820.00
Nov 14, 2025Nov 23, 2025$3,345.00
Nov 18, 2025Nov 27, 2025$3,510.00
Nov 21, 2025Nov 30, 2025$3,510.00
Nov 25, 2025Dec 4, 2025$3,510.00
Nov 28, 2025Dec 7, 2025$3,345.00
Dec 19, 2025Dec 28, 2025$3,215.00
Dec 26, 2025Jan 4, 2026$3,505.00
Dec 30, 2025Jan 8, 2026$3,375.00
Jan 2, 2026Jan 11, 2026$3,580.00
Jan 16, 2026Jan 25, 2026$3,705.00
Jan 23, 2026Feb 1, 2026$3,580.00
Jan 27, 2026Feb 5, 2026$3,450.00
Feb 3, 2026Feb 12, 2026$3,450.00
Feb 6, 2026Feb 15, 2026$3,770.00
Feb 13, 2026Feb 22, 2026$3,450.00
Feb 17, 2026Feb 26, 2026$3,450.00
Feb 20, 2026Mar 1, 2026$3,450.00
Feb 27, 2026Mar 8, 2026$3,450.00
Mar 6, 2026Mar 15, 2026$3,450.00
Mar 13, 2026Mar 22, 2026$3,450.00
Mar 20, 2026Mar 29, 2026$3,450.00
Mar 27, 2026Apr 5, 2026$3,450.00
Apr 3, 2026Apr 12, 2026$3,315.00
Apr 10, 2026Apr 19, 2026$3,315.00
Apr 24, 2026May 3, 2026$3,315.00
May 15, 2026May 24, 2026$3,315.00
Jun 5, 2026Jun 14, 2026$3,315.00
Jun 19, 2026Jun 28, 2026$3,315.00
Jul 3, 2026Jul 12, 2026$3,315.00
Jul 17, 2026Jul 26, 2026$3,315.00
Aug 7, 2026Aug 16, 2026$3,315.00
Sep 4, 2026Sep 13, 2026$3,315.00
Oct 2, 2026Oct 11, 2026$3,315.00
Oct 16, 2026Oct 25, 2026$3,450.00
Oct 30, 2026Nov 8, 2026$3,450.00
Nov 6, 2026Nov 15, 2026$3,640.00
Nov 10, 2026Nov 19, 2026$3,640.00
Nov 13, 2026Nov 22, 2026$3,640.00
Nov 20, 2026Nov 29, 2026$3,640.00
Nov 24, 2026Dec 3, 2026$3,640.00
Nov 27, 2026Dec 6, 2026$3,640.00
Dec 4, 2026Dec 13, 2026$3,505.00
Dec 18, 2026Dec 27, 2026$3,640.00
Dec 25, 2026Jan 3, 2027$3,640.00
Dec 29, 2026Jan 7, 2027$3,640.00
Jan 1, 2027Jan 10, 2027$3,165.00
Jan 15, 2027Jan 24, 2027$3,165.00
Jan 22, 2027Jan 31, 2027$3,165.00
Feb 5, 2027Feb 14, 2027$3,165.00
Feb 12, 2027Feb 21, 2027$3,165.00
Feb 19, 2027Feb 28, 2027$3,165.00
Feb 26, 2027Mar 7, 2027$3,165.00
Mar 5, 2027Mar 14, 2027$3,165.00
Mar 12, 2027Mar 21, 2027$3,165.00
Mar 19, 2027Mar 28, 2027$3,165.00
Mar 26, 2027Apr 4, 2027$3,165.00
Apr 2, 2027Apr 11, 2027$3,165.00
Apr 9, 2027Apr 18, 2027$3,165.00
Apr 23, 2027May 2, 2027$3,165.00
May 14, 2027May 23, 2027$3,165.00
Jun 4, 2027Jun 13, 2027$3,165.00
Jun 18, 2027Jun 27, 2027$3,165.00
Jul 2, 2027Jul 11, 2027$3,165.00
Jul 16, 2027Jul 25, 2027$3,165.00
Aug 6, 2027Aug 15, 2027$3,165.00
Sep 3, 2027Sep 12, 2027$3,165.00
Oct 1, 2027Oct 10, 2027$3,165.00
Oct 15, 2027Oct 24, 2027$3,165.00
Oct 29, 2027Nov 7, 2027$3,165.00
Nov 5, 2027Nov 14, 2027$3,220.00
Nov 9, 2027Nov 18, 2027$3,220.00
Nov 12, 2027Nov 21, 2027$3,220.00
Nov 19, 2027Nov 28, 2027$3,220.00
Nov 23, 2027Dec 2, 2027$3,220.00
Nov 26, 2027Dec 5, 2027$3,220.00
Dec 3, 2027Dec 12, 2027$3,220.00
Dec 10, 2027Dec 19, 2027$3,220.00
Dec 17, 2027Dec 26, 2027$3,220.00
Dec 24, 2027Jan 2, 2028$3,220.00
Dec 28, 2027Jan 6, 2028$3,220.00

×

Enquire Now

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

×

Book an Appointment

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

World Travellers Riccarton is 100% owned and operated by Kiwis who belong to the fastest growing travel cooperative in New Zealand. We’re more than just a travel agency, we are well established travel professionals, dedicated to providing outstanding service to world travellers just like you. Think of us as your personal travel concierge – at no extra cost!

Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy

[email protected]

03 341 0170 / 0800 30 30 80

47 Mandeville Street Riccarton, Christchurch 8011

Monday-Friday 9am - 5pm

Website Designed & Developed by Verum

Website Designed & Developed by Verum Digital
Copyright 2025 © World Travellers Riccarton
Terms & Conditions / Privacy Policy
  • Destinations
    • Search by Travel Provider
    • Africa
    • Arctic / Antarctica
    • Asia
    • Australia
    • New Zealand
    • South America
    • South Pacific
    • The Middle East
    • UK & Europe
    • USA/Canada/Hawaii
  • About
    • Our Story
    • Meet Our Consultants
  • Blog
  • Business Travel
  • Make a Payment
  • Shop
    • Rental Cars – Driveaway
    • 12 Months Interest Free Travel
    • Book Your Holiday With American Express Membership Rewards
  • Contact