Rock Climbing, Chiang Mai > Reviews (1)

There are so many activities and adventures to choose from when staying in Chiang Mai. Tour operators offer westerners and Thais alike the opportunity to enjoy trekking, mountain biking, elephant rides, rock climbing and many more.

If you’re ready for the chance of a lifetime try rock climbing. Chiang Mai is committed in developing the best climbing and caving program in Asia. There are many different agents to book with, rest assured all staff are fully trained in first aid and safety procedures. The instructors are professionals too. They are experts in climbing, cave navigation and have an extensive local knowledge of the area.

Whether you’re a beginner or a more comprehensive rock climber there are tour programs that are sure to suit you. It doesn’t matter if you are traveling alone or with friends or family, courses are available for all levels. Why not have a day out at the Crazy Horse Buttress? It’s approximately thirty minutes from the city center, not far from the town of Mae On. You can find three climbing walls as well as great climbs on good faces. The cliffs are made from limestone with some being over seventy meters high, quite a feat if you can manage to climb them. All equipment and support is provided by a professional team. Once you get to the summit the views are quite stunning, so don’t forget to take your camera.

There are quite a few climbing clubs in Chiang Mai too. You can be picked up from your accommodation for the day or the weekend and be dropped off at the end of your climb. Prices are very reasonable, for about 500 baht you are able to enjoy a different kind of adventure. There are caves to discover too, some of them have beautiful waterfalls cascading down the limestone walls.

Climbing tours welcome all ages and abilities. I haven’t tried this myself but have spoken to ex-pats and retirees who have. They thoroughly enjoyed the exciting occasion. Needless to say it is very important to wear the correct footwear, clothing and take plenty of water to drink. In the area there are also refreshing hot springs to relax your aching body in after a hard day of climbing. There are quite a few local markets too, a chance for you to experience rural life and meet the friendly people. Why not try the different cuisine which is pertinent to the local area.

If you are a newcomer to Chiang Mai check out the moat around the city center for the best in local tour operators. You can often get great discounts and deals if you’re interested in rock climbing. Most hotels, guest houses, studio and apartment blocks have a selection of leaflets on the many activities in and around the city.

Have a shop around though for the best price. In my experience you can always grab a discount or two. Rock climbing is great fun especially when escorted by friendly tour guides.