When families look for the best adventure activities in Chiang Mai, 8Adventures stands out as the safest and most exciting choice. We are trusted by parents, schools (see our school trips page), and groups because we combine world-class safety standards with fun designed for every age. Our trips use top international safety gear, and all our guides are locals trained in first aid, wilderness rescue, and communications. Tours are designed by world champion kayaker Eric Southwick, making every journey professional and unique.

Why 8Adventures is Perfect for Families

Families want the right mix of safety and adventure in Chiang Mai. At 8Adventures, we’ve created special family-friendly routes, including rafting trips where we avoid the biggest rapids in high water but still give you the thrill of floating through the jungle. Our trekking tours are short enough for kids and include swimming at a waterfall and learning about fascinating insects, plants, and wildlife.

Adventure Options for All Ages

We recommend spending a full day at 8Adventures with a combination of two activities 

• 8KM Whitewater Rafting 

• Trekking to a Waterfall

• ATV/ Quad biking tours

This way, families can choose rafting and trekking, rafting and ATV, or trekking and ATV. Our brand-new ATVs this season are a highlight, especially for parents and teens who want a safe but thrilling ride through mountain trails.

A Full Day of Family Adventure

Every tour includes round-trip pickup from your Chiang Mai hotel, a delicious lunch with options for children and dietary needs, and the comfort of hot showers and a snack shop at our basecamp. Our photographer captures the best family memories so you can take them home.

By joining 8Adventures, you not only enjoy the best adventure activities in Chiang Mai for families, but you also support a company that gives back—rescuing flood victims, maintaining rivers, and protecting the jungle.

As the sun sets after a day of adventure actvities, Chiang Mai transforms into a bustling urban hub filled with street vendors, food stalls and drinking spots. Here’s our handpicked selection of Chiang Mai’s top bars.

1. Riverside Bar & Restaurant – A Popular Local HangoutLocated along the Ping River, The Riverside is a beloved spot in Chiang Mai. With nightly live music, delicious Thai and Western dishes, and a laid-back riverside setting, it attracts both locals and tourists. Arriving early guarantees a riverside table, while enjoying live music upstairs is a great way to end a day of exploring the jungle or the river. Also check out the bar next door, Good View. 

2. North Gate Jazz Co-Op – A Destination for Jazz Lovers. Situated near the northern moat gate of the Old City, North Gate Jazz Co-Op is a cozy venue known for its nightly jazz performances that spill onto the streets. Drawing a diverse crowd of backpackers, students, and locals, it has an authentic, artsy vibe, making it a top choice for music enthusiasts in Chiang Mai.

3. Sudsanan – A Peaceful Retreat in NatureFor a more tranquil and secluded experience, Sudsanan offers a serene getaway with its rustic atmosphere, wooden huts, charming lights, and frequent live music. It’s a hidden gem where one can relax with cold drinks, cozy corners, and a laid-back crowd.

4. Nimmanhaemin Road – The Stylish Nightlife Hub of Chiang MaiKnown as “Nimman” to locals, Nimmanhaemin Road is a hotspot for trendy rooftop bars, craft beer spots, and chic cocktail lounges. Venues like Warm Up Café, The Beer Republic, and Rise Rooftop Bar cater to a young, stylish crowd, showcasing Chiang Mai’s modern nightlife with a variety of options to hop between bars, cafes, and clubs.

5. Loi Kroh Road – Revealing Chiang Mai’s Diverse Nightlife SceneFor a peek into Chiang Mai’s eclectic nightlife, Loi Kroh Road offers late-night bars, pool venues, and spots blending Muay Thai shows with drinks and vibrant lights. While not for everyone, it adds to Chiang Mai’s multifaceted nightlife, with some venues open well into the early hours.

Whether you seek riverside views, rooftop drinks, live jazz tunes, or some fun, Chiang Mai’s nightlife has something for everyone. After an exciting day with 8Adventures spending an evening at one of these spots is a perfect end to your trip.

Chiang Mai is an adventure playground, offering the perfect mix of nature, adventure, and culture for families. Whether you’re looking for an active day outdoors or a cultural experience, here are the top family-friendly adventure activities with 8Adventures.

1. Beginner-Friendly Jungle Trekking

A guided trek through Chiang Mai’s lush jungles is a fantastic way for families to connect with nature. Our family-friendly trekking tours are designed to be fun and educational, with expert guides leading the way through stunning landscapes.

Learn about local plants and wildlife along the trails, visit remote hill tribe villages to see traditional ways of life, and explore scenic viewpoints and waterfalls along the route. This low-impact adventure is perfect for kids and parents alike, offering a chance to be active while soaking in the natural beauty of Northern Thailand.

2. Whitewater Rafting (Level 2-3 Rapids)

For families with kids (minimum age 7), rafting on the Mae Taeng River is the perfect mix of fun and excitement. Our family-friendly rafting tours are led by experienced guides to ensure both safety and a thrilling experience.

The level 2-3 rapids provide just the right amount of adventure while keeping the ride manageable for beginners. Along the way, you’ll pass through stunning jungle scenery and enjoy a great bonding experience as you paddle together. Whether it’s your first time rafting or you’re looking for a refreshing way to explore Chiang Mai, this is an adventure you won’t forget.

3. Village Stay: Experience Lahu Culture

For families looking to combine adventure with cultural immersion, the Village Stay tour is a unique experience. The journey begins with a scenic trek through the mountains, leading to a traditional Lahu village in Mae Taeng, where you’ll spend the night.

Families stay in a bamboo house with a terrace perfect for stargazing and enjoy home-cooked meals prepared by local villagers. The experience includes learning about Lahu traditions, handicrafts, and daily life, making it a meaningful way to connect with local culture. The trek through the mountain trails adds an element of adventure, offering incredible views and a glimpse into the region’s natural beauty.

4. Discover Hidden Waterfalls Around Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is home to countless waterfalls, many of which remain hidden gems waiting to be explored. Some of the best family-friendly waterfalls include:

• Mae Sa Waterfall – A multi-tiered cascade perfect for picnicking and exploring.

• Monthathan Waterfall – Easy to reach and great for cooling off.

• Huay Kaew Waterfall – Near Chiang Mai Zoo, perfect for a short family hike.

• Mae Wang Waterfall – Located near our trekking routes, a great spot to relax mid-adventure.

Our trekking tours often pass by hidden waterfalls, offering families the chance to take a refreshing swim and enjoy a break in nature.

5. ATV Adventure (Suitable for Families with Older Children)

For families with teenagers looking for a thrilling way to explore Chiang Mai’s rugged landscape, an ATV adventure is the perfect choice. Our ATV tours are beginner-friendly and take riders through off-road jungle trails, river crossings, and scenic mountain viewpoints.

The minimum age to drive an ATV is 15, while younger kids (7+) can ride as passengers with an adult. This adventure offers a fun and exciting way for families to experience the great outdoors, combining speed, adrenaline, and incredible scenery.

Make Unforgettable Family Memories with 8Adventures!

Chiang Mai is the perfect destination for families seeking adventure, nature, and culture. Whether you’re trekking through jungles, rafting down rivers, staying in a hill tribe village, or exploring waterfalls, 8Adventures ensures a safe, fun, and unforgettable experience for everyone.

Ready to plan your next family adventure? Explore our tours and book your Chiang Mai adventure today!

Maybe your feeling hungry after a day Whitewater Rafting and Trekking? Luckily Thailand is renowned it’s availability of delicious food, whether it’s local or international. As one of Thailand’s largest cities Chiang Mai boasts an incredible variety of cuisines from around the world. For those missing the taste of food from home pizza will be a popular first choice. Although not available as street food or sold in local markets, Chiang Mai has plenty of pizza restaurants to choose from. There are many food delivery companies to choose from including Foodpanda, Grab, LineMan and the local service Meals on Wheels. If eating in preferred there are many options inside the moat and around Nimmanheiman Road. One recommended restaurant is Why Not? an Italian restaurant with a garden and wood fired pizza oven on Nimman Soi 11. Why Not? has a large menu, large pizzas and great wine. Our personal choice for pizza delivery in Chiang Mai is The Dukes which has a long running buy one get one free  promotion. The Dukes has been here since 2005 and has several branches around town. Other good pizza options include Street Pizza, Thin Thin Pizza and Urban Pizza. Chain restaurants such as The Pizza Company and Pizza Hut may taste different ( often sweeter) to at home as their menu’s are targetted to locals.

Please note other pizza options are available, restaurant recommendations aren’t affiliated with 8Adventures.

The pizza in the photo is The Duke’s @ Maya ‘Four Cheese’