The Mae Taeng River valley is home to several rafting operations that take you expertly down the raging river. Just 75 km away from Chiang Mai’s city centre, the river provides rafters with thrilling Class II, III and IV rapids that will leave you breathless. Barrel down the rapids then rest and take in the scenery―lush jungle, towering mountains and brilliant sunshine―during quiet stretches of the river where all you have to is sit back and relax. These excursions are open to all and no previous experience is required to enjoy a day out on the river. Most operators run day-long trips including lunch and hotel pickup.

Bamboo rafting is also available around Chiang Mai on rafts made from bamboo logs tied together. Traditionally, these rafts were use by locals for transport and to transfer goods, but now travellers can get in on the action to experience another side of the north. Calmer than white water rafting, the bamboo rafts let you relax a bit more but are by no means boring as you manoeuvre gentle rivers and watch the gorgeous jungle go by. While the rafts are safe, they’re certainly not waterproof―prepare for a wet ride!