Northern Thailand self-drive Tuk Tuk adventure

7:45 Meet the rest of the day's group at the Chiang Mai Gate Hotel at or get picked up from your hotel between 08:00 - 08:30 and transfer by minivan to our base for the day in the Mae Wang valley. (Please note that hotel pick-up can only be provided for hotels inside the Chiang Mai 'middle ring road'.)
9:30 (Approx.) Upon arrival in Mae Wang, our team will introduce you to your tuk tuk for the day and begin driving training. If you don't want to drive a tuk tuk yourself, don't worry, there's also the option to enjoy the scenery - and a nice breeze - by simply riding in the back. 
NOTE: All drivers must be 18 or older and hold a valid manual driving license from their home country.
10:30 (Approx.) Once everyone has mastered the art of driving, begin the journey driving along rural roads, snaking through farming villages and passing traditional temples. A guide will lead the group making sure that you don't get lost and making frequent stops along the way to further explore the charms of northern Thailand.
11:30 (Approx.) In the late morning, arrive at an elephant home to learn more about the significance of these incredible creatures in Thai culture as well as interact with them one on one. After being introduced to these gentle giants, help the mahouts (elephant trainers) with feeding time before sitting down to a Thai feast yourself right next to your new animal friends. 
13:00 (Approx.) After lunch, walk with the mahouts and their elephants through the local countryside to the river to help bathe the elephants - get read for some photos opps!
NOTE: No elephant riding is allowed.
15:00 (Approx.) It's hard to say good-bye to the elephants, but there's even more fun to be had. After leaving the elephant camp we'll trade the tuk tuks in for bamboo rafts to float lazily down the river. While you won't find any rapids here, you will get to see a different side of the local surroundings while manoeuvring the river's twists and turns. 
16:00 (Approx.) After rafting, it's time to jump back into your tuk tuk and wind your way back through the valley enjoying your last moments behind the wheel. As the road curves and sweeps gently down the hill, be sure to have your camera out to catch the surprised look of local villagers when they see you driving your very own tuk tuk!
16:45 (Approx.) Upon reaching the tuk tuk headquarters, transfer back to Chiang Mai via minivan.
18:00 (Approx.) Arrive back in Chiang Mai city at your initial pick-up point.
Meals included: Lunch at the elephant home
Note: The minimum age for travelers on this day trip is 7 years old.