•  2 pairs of short trousers /pants

•  1 long sleeve top

•  2 T-shirts

•  1 sweater (ONLY needed for cold season (November – February)

•  Mosquito repellent

•  Hat

•  Shoes / walking boots with good grip

What will I eat?

We can discuss before the tour any specific dietary requirements that you may have. Tourist people in the past have chosen to try local Karen Hill tribe food and also Thai food. It will be cooked to your taste – spicy or not too spicy! A simple breakfast of toast, jam and coffee/tea is provided during the 2 / 3 day tours.

Is drinking water provided?

Yes, drinking water is included in all of the tours. However, you will be given it at the beginning of the trek and will have to carry it by yourself!

Do I need to bring my own sleeping bag / blankets and mosquito net?

No, the villages that we stay in have blankets and mosquito nets ready for us to use.

Can your staff speak the local Hill tribe language?

Yes, staff are from ‘Karen' (local hill tribe) families and are fluent speakers who understand the hill tribe way of life. Staff are also fluent in English and Thai.

When is the best time to visit the Karen Hill tribes?

Anytime!!! We run tours throughout the year, all months offering something special and different to see.

Between November and February is high season in Northern Thailand , trekking is possible even in rainy season, June – September. During the months of March, April and May it is hot season in Northern Thailand, temperatures can reach up to 40C.

Do you follow eco-tourism/sustainable travel principles?

Yes, Along the banks of the Salawin is a sustainable travel enterprise that aims to minimize the negative aspects of conventional tourism on the environment and enhance the cultural integrity of local people. We want to encourage sharing of skills and experiences between local Karen hilltribe villagers and tourist people.

How do I book a tour?

Please contact us by email info@banksofsalawin.com or phone +66 (0) 833258066 and we will be happy to provide you with more information on the tours and take bookings.

What other people say about ‘Along the Banks of the Salawin'....

“Thanks for the great tour! Day 1 was tough, lots of sweating but we greatly enjoyed it. The pretty village, friendly family and the rice festival with home made whiskey made our stay very special........Thanks for the great time, perfect cooking skills and soft introduction to Karen culture.” Willeuien (Switzerland)

“It's one of the best things I think that you can do! Trekking! There's no better way to see that country and I was so glad to do it alone with you, Bank! And not in a big group. It was such a nice experience sweating, talking, relaxing but mostly the staying at the villages with these friendly people. Your cooking was perfect........Thanks a lot, I will keep this in my memory forever.” Klaus (Germany)

“Great trek! 10 th day in Thailand but the best experience so far. No other tourist, just you and the hill tribe people. Poor people but very very friendly! ....... I will recommend this tour to everybody who is coming to Thailand.” Matt, Vosto, Attila, Rubi and Joe (Hungarians from Slovakia)