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Asia

Thai Lantern Festival

10 days / 9 nights From $1590 USD 5.0

About this trip

Imagine thousands of lights filling the sky, lanterns floating through the darkness: a symbolic festival in Thailand bursting with life, music, dance, and wishes.

You'll also embark on an unforgettable adventure across Thailand, starting in vibrant Bangkok with its golden temples and bustling markets, before heading into the serenity of Chiang Mai, among historic temples and lush mountains.

Finally, you'll wrap up the trip relaxing on the paradise beaches of Phuket and the breathtaking Phi Phi Islands, with their crystal-clear waters.

Our W&W touch

Wild30%
Bonding with and bathing elephants
Wonder70%
Lantern festival

Trip highlights

  • Lantern festival in Chiang Mai, a one-of-a-kind spectacle bathed in light
  • Tour of Bangkok's iconic temples: Wat Po, Wat Arun, and the Grand Palace
  • Day tour to the White Temple, Blue Temple, and Golden Triangle in Chiang Rai
  • Ethical elephant sanctuary experience
  • Phi Phi Islands: Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Monkey Beach
  • Trip wrap-up on the beaches of Phuket

Itinerary

Welcome to Thailand's largest and most historic city. We'll head to our accommodation to check in, and you'll have free time to explore the city: take a half-day tour to the floating market, or explore spots like Wat Traimit, Wang Na Palace, Chatuchak Market, or Lumpini Park. At night we'll discover Khaosan Road, Thailand's best party spot, a street packed with local food and nightlife.

We'll tour the city's best spots: Wat Po, known for its massive Reclining Buddha, 46 meters long and 15 meters tall; Wat Arun, one of the city's most important Buddhist temples; and the Grand Palace of Bangkok, a must-see stop and symbol of the country. The afternoon is free to keep exploring whatever interests you most.

We'll land at Chiang Mai airport in northern Thailand, with transfer included to our accommodation. We'll settle into our rooms and head out for dinner with the group, then turn in early to be ready for a one-of-a-kind activity the next day.

One of the most special days of the adventure has arrived: the lantern festival. This celebration — tied to the full moon of the second month of the Thai lunar calendar — brings together thousands of people who release their lanterns into the sky as a symbol of letting go of bad energy and wishing for their dreams to come true. We'll experience a truly unique moment, full of magic, music, and joy.

A full day from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai to visit the spectacular White Temple and the Blue Temple, then continue on to the Golden Triangle, where you can view the border of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar from a lookout point. We'll stop for lunch before visiting the Opium Museum and enjoying a boat ride on the Mekong River.

Hotel pickup at 7:30 am and an hour's transfer to an ethical elephant sanctuary. After a quick briefing on their care, you'll prepare healthy food and treats for them, feed them, and play with them. We'll wrap up with a Thai buffet lunch with vegetarian options, before heading back to Chiang Mai with the afternoon free.

Free morning in Chiang Mai to enjoy the city at your own pace, wandering its streets, markets, and cafés. Afterward we'll head to the airport to fly to Phuket, with its tropical landscapes and beaches; upon arrival, transfer to the hotel to settle in and rest.

A spectacular day trip from Phuket to the Phi Phi Islands: we'll sail to the iconic Maya Bay, explore natural gems like Viking Cave, and dive into the emerald waters of Pileh Lagoon, with stops for snorkeling. Next come monkey encounters at Monkey Beach and a relaxed finish at Khai Island, among white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Last day in Phuket to relax at the hotel or head out to explore on your own: Thai cooking classes, a walk through Phuket Old Town, visiting temples and local culture, an excursion to Phang Nga Bay, beach hopping, sunset at Promthep Cape, or simply relaxing by the pool.

It's time to say goodbye to the group and head to the airport to catch your flight back home. Thank you for being part of this incredible trip.

Where will you stay?

3–4 Star Hotel, Twin Room 9 nights in a well-located hotel, sharing a twin room with your group.
Clean, safe, and well-located Every stay is checked by our team before it's confirmed on the itinerary.
Photo coming soon
Photo coming soon
Photo coming soon

What's included?

Included

  • 9 nights of accommodation in a 3*-4* hotel, shared twin room
  • Some breakfasts included
  • Day tour to the White Temple, Blue Temple, and Golden Triangle (Chiang Rai)
  • Wat Po, Wat Arun, and Grand Palace tour
  • Boat tour to Pileh Lagoon and Maya Bay
  • Elephant sanctuary visit
  • Entrance tickets to several of the sites
  • Entrance tickets to the Thai Lantern Festival
  • Airport transfers included during the trip
  • W&W ambassador throughout your trip and experience coordinator for support
  • Prep bootcamps

Not included

  • International flights
  • Flight from Chiang Mai to Phuket (~$50–75 USD approx.)
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses and tips
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
Upcoming departures

Available dates for Thai Lantern Festival

What our travelers say

Reviews & Testimonials

5.0
Based on 7 reviews

I had the chance to travel with Wild & Wonder on their Thai Lanterns expedition, everything was amazing, we had a wonderful time, I met incredible people.

Everything was super organized, our ambassador Cami was one of the most helpful and sweetest. I recommend 1000/10!

I enjoyed this group experience, creating experiences together and enjoying the trip without having to manage plans was comforting.

The trip was excellent, unforgettable moments. A fantastic group and a fantastic ambassador. I totally recommend it!

The most Wild & Wonder experience I've ever had, the best ambassador! You have to experience the Thai Lanterns.

Frequently asked questions

Have questions?

Be between 25 and 45 years old, with valid travel documentation (a passport valid for at least 6 months from your entry date into the country). We'll guide you if you need to arrange a visa.

Given the nature of our adventures — constant transfers, packing and unpacking every day — we ask you to travel light: a small backpack or personal item, plus a 10–12 kg carry-on. If you prefer to bring a larger suitcase, any extra storage or transport cost is on you.

Message us on WhatsApp using the "Reserve your spot" button and we'll walk you through the form and deposit. As soon as your spot is confirmed, we'll send you the next steps.

You reserve your spot with $100 USD, which counts toward the final package price. The remainder is split into up to 6 payments on fixed dates, and must be paid off no later than one month before the trip. Cash payments are not accepted.

You book your own flights, but you'll get guidance from your experience coordinator once you've reserved your spot, including the recommended arrival airport. If you decide to fly in before or after the group dates, any extra costs are on you.

An experience coordinator follows up with you remotely before the trip (flights, visas, prep). A W&W ambassador travels with you in person and leads the group, and expert local guides join you on tours. The rest of the group is other travelers on the same date.

Our packages are built around well-located 3- or 4-star hotels, in twin rooms (2 beds) shared with another group member. Some packages include different nights, like camping or igloos, noted in the itinerary.

Wild & Wonder is part of Travelers With Cause, a responsible tourism company registered since January 2018, with registration before Mexico's Secretariat of Tourism. We don't travel to countries with political or social instability. Travel insurance is mandatory, and we can help you find one that fits your needs.

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