Guided & Supported

The Monk’s Trail

10 Day Off-Road Motorcycle Tour of Thailand

From Chiang Mai we dive straight into Northern Thailandโ€™s best dirt, trading city streets for Ob Khanโ€™s single-track, rocky climbs and river crossings. We link raw off-road riding with the sweeping switchbacks of parts of the Mae Hong Son loop. Hill tribe villages, waterfalls and laid-back evenings complete ten properly satisfying days.

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Pillion Friendly?
No
This tour is not pillion-friendly. We ride enduro-style motorcycles that do not accommodate passengers. Additionally, some sections we ride can get technical and the conditions do not allow for a pillion.
Terrain
80% unpaved
Approximately 20% of this route is paved, and 80% is unpaved. Unpaved can be anything from steep, technical single-track to wide gravel roads. You should be prepared to spend most of your day out on the rough stuff and quite often separated from the support vehicle for long periods. A good level of fitness and a willingness to get wet and muddy are required. This number may be subject to change due to several factors, including the capability of the group, road conditions, weather conditions and any other factors out of our immediate control.
Total Distance KM
1220
This is the total riding distance from start to finish. This is not exact, and the actual distance covered may be affected by several factors.
Support
Fully supported and guided
Our local guide will ride at the front of the group. Our tour leader, who is trained as a wilderness first response medic, rides at the back of the group (carrying a medical kit). The exact support team size will vary based on group size, but generally there will be at least one support vehicle and one or more mechanic, Whilst the support vehicle travels with the group, it will not always be travelling the exact routes that the group does. The support vehicle carries all of your main luggage, spare parts, water, snacks and further med kit and stretcher, etc. Back at base, we have a consulting expedition doctor, ready to assist and advise telephonically in the case of a medical emergency.
Airport
Arrival: Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) Departure: Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)
Difficulty Rating (overall)
7 (out of 10)
This is our best effort to give an average rating for the trip, based on the average rider. This is subjective though, and will vastly depend on your own riding experience and ability. It can also vary depending on the weather conditions during your trip and other factors like your fitness level. If you're in any doubt about your riding ability, or if this difficulty rating concerns you, we strongly recommend you arrange a chat with one of our experienced tour leaders.
Standard of Accommodation
6 (out of 10)
The standard of accommodation rating primarily reflects the additional amenities and comfortable accommodation options available on tour. It represents our best effort to provide an average rating based on a variety of factors (from the standard idea of what good quality is). On The Monk's Trail specifically, accommodation varies considerably - some are very nice, while others are rather basic due to limited options off the beaten track. We always aim to find the best option available to us.
Average Daily Ride Hours
6 - 7
Generally, we depart at 8:30am and aim to arrive at the accommodation by 4:30pm, stopping for drink/photo stops and lunch along the way. These are not strict times though, and these can vary depending on the conditions at the time, the ability/pace of the group and distance.
KEY INFO

Tour Snapshot

Pillion Friendly?
No
This tour is not pillion-friendly. We ride enduro-style motorcycles that do not accommodate passengers. Additionally, some sections we ride can get technical and the conditions do not allow for a pillion.
Difficulty Rating (overall)
7 (out of 10)
This is our best effort to give an average rating for the trip, based on the average rider. This is subjective though, and will vastly depend on your own riding experience and ability. It can also vary depending on the weather conditions during your trip and other factors like your fitness level. If you're in any doubt about your riding ability, or if this difficulty rating concerns you, we strongly recommend you arrange a chat with one of our experienced tour leaders.
Terrain
80% unpaved
Approximately 20% of this route is paved, and 80% is unpaved. Unpaved can be anything from steep, technical single-track to wide gravel roads. You should be prepared to spend most of your day out on the rough stuff and quite often separated from the support vehicle for long periods. A good level of fitness and a willingness to get wet and muddy are required. This number may be subject to change due to several factors, including the capability of the group, road conditions, weather conditions and any other factors out of our immediate control.
Standard of Accommodation
6 (out of 10)
The standard of accommodation rating primarily reflects the additional amenities and comfortable accommodation options available on tour. It represents our best effort to provide an average rating based on a variety of factors (from the standard idea of what good quality is). On The Monk's Trail specifically, accommodation varies considerably - some are very nice, while others are rather basic due to limited options off the beaten track. We always aim to find the best option available to us.
Total Distance KM
1220
This is the total riding distance from start to finish. This is not exact, and the actual distance covered may be affected by several factors.
Support
Fully supported and guided
Our local guide will ride at the front of the group. Our tour leader, who is trained as a wilderness first response medic, rides at the back of the group (carrying a medical kit). The exact support team size will vary based on group size, but generally there will be at least one support vehicle and one or more mechanic, Whilst the support vehicle travels with the group, it will not always be travelling the exact routes that the group does. The support vehicle carries all of your main luggage, spare parts, water, snacks and further med kit and stretcher, etc. Back at base, we have a consulting expedition doctor, ready to assist and advise telephonically in the case of a medical emergency.
Average Daily Ride Hours
6 - 7
Generally, we depart at 8:30am and aim to arrive at the accommodation by 4:30pm, stopping for drink/photo stops and lunch along the way. These are not strict times though, and these can vary depending on the conditions at the time, the ability/pace of the group and distance.
Airport
Arrival: Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) Departure: Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)
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Into Thailandโ€™s Wild North

Tour Overview

We kick off this epic 10-day off-road motorcycle tour of Northern Thailand in Chiang Mai, the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Lanna. This vibrant walled city sets the tone for a spectacular evening of unique local dining and luxurious accommodation.

Following a night of R&R, weโ€™ll roll out of the city toward Ob Khan National Park and onto monumental dirt tracks. Chud, our partner on the ground and local motocross legend, shares his expert knowledge of the tracks as he guides us through heaps of single-track, technical rocky climbs, countless river crossings, and flowing double-track. In our opinion, this is the best Thailand has to offer.

When the gnarly tracks get the better of us, stunning, twisty sections of the world-famous Mae Hong Son loop lead us back to civilisation for sustenance and refreshment. Switch back after switch back of beautifully smooth tarmac draped over the mountains. The riding on this route is as impressive as the scenery across the hills.

We stop in hill tribe villages, pass through national parks still home to wild elephants, visit waterfalls and spend most of our evenings sipping cold beers at resorts with refreshingly welcome swimming pools!

 

The Monkโ€™s Trail - map

Tour Highlights

Here's a taste of what makes this ride unforgettable.

Ride Expeditions - Motorcycle Tours - Monks Trail - Ride right past elephants on the trail (while sightings are likely, they are not guaranteed!)

Ride right past elephants on the trail (...while sightings are likely, they are not guaranteed!)

Ride Expeditions - Motorcycle Tours - Monks Trail - Ride across suspended bridges

Ride across suspended bridges.

Ride Expeditions - Motorcycle Tours - Monks Trail - Incredible trail riding from start to finish

Incredible trail riding from start to finish.

Ride Expeditions - Motorcycle Tours - Monks Trail - Receive a good luck blessing from a local monk

Receive a good luck blessing from a local monk.

Ride Expeditions - Motorcycle Tours - Monks Trail - River crossings. LOTS of river crossings!

River crossings. LOTS of river crossings!

Ride Expeditions - Motorcycle Tours - Monks Trail - Meet the friendly Thai locals

Meet the friendly Thai locals.

Ride Expeditions - Motorcycle Tours - Monks Trail - Stunning hilltop views

Stunning hilltop views.

Ride Expeditions - Motorcycle Tours - Monks Trail - A variety of accommodation - some luxury, some not so luxury!

A variety of accommodation - some luxury, some not so luxury!

Ride Expeditions - Motorcycle Tours - Monks Trail - Exhilarating rides along multiple riverbeds

Exhilarating rides along multiple riverbeds.

Ride Expeditions - Motorcycle Tours - Monks Trail - Singletrack. Who doesn_t love singletrack!

Singletrack. Who doesn't love singletrack?!

Tour Itinerary

WHAT'S INCLUDED AND WHAT'S NOT?

Plan your Adventure

Hereโ€™s exactly whatโ€™s covered (and whatโ€™s not), so you can hit the road fully loaded and stress-free. From meals to mileage, itโ€™s all laid out right here.
YOUR ADVENTURE STEED

The Motorcycles

A trusty adventure steed comes as standard, perfect for this trip and raring to go. If you fancy something with a bit more biteโ€ฆ have a peek.

Bike Disclaimer: Bike models may vary due to ongoing fleet upgrades.

CHOOSE YOUR DATE HERE

Dates & Pricing

Pick a departure that works for you, then explore what’s included, upgrade bike options and optional extras, all in one neat booking card.
    2026
    November 20, 2026 โ€“ November 29, 2026
    Only 1 place remaining.
    The Monk’s Trail November 20 2026 booking details
    Tour price
    Rider (Incl. Honda CRF 300L)
    £3,310
    Rider (own bike)
    £2,865
    The motorcycles

    (Bike Disclaimer: Bike models may vary due to ongoing fleet upgrades.)

    Honda CRF 300L
    Included
    1 left
    Optional extras
    Single Room Supplement
    + £395
    December 4, 2026 โ€“ December 13, 2026
    Private
    Only 4 places remaining.
    The Monk’s Trail December 4 2026 booking details
    Tour price
    Rider (Incl. Honda CRF 300L)
    £3,310
    Rider (own bike)
    £2,865
    The motorcycles

    (Bike Disclaimer: Bike models may vary due to ongoing fleet upgrades.)

    Honda CRF 300L
    Included
    Optional extras
    Single Room Supplement
    + £395
    Private tour details
    Private tour for James
    By request
    2027
    January 22, 2027 โ€“ January 31, 2027
    The Monk’s Trail January 22 2027 booking details
    Tour price
    Rider (Incl. Honda CRF 300L)
    £3,510
    Rider (own bike)
    £3,045
    The motorcycles

    (Bike Disclaimer: Bike models may vary due to ongoing fleet upgrades.)

    Honda CRF 300L
    Included
    Optional extras
    Single Room Supplement
    + £435
    February 4, 2027 โ€“ February 13, 2027
    The Monk’s Trail February 4 2027 booking details
    Tour price
    Rider (Incl. Honda CRF 300L)
    £3,510
    Rider (own bike)
    £3,045
    The motorcycles

    (Bike Disclaimer: Bike models may vary due to ongoing fleet upgrades.)

    Honda CRF 300L
    Included
    Optional extras
    Single Room Supplement
    + £435
    November 19, 2027 โ€“ November 28, 2027
    Private
    Only 3 places remaining.
    The Monk’s Trail November 19 2027 booking details
    Tour price
    Rider (Incl. Honda CRF 300L)
    £3,510
    Rider (own bike)
    £3,045
    The motorcycles

    (Bike Disclaimer: Bike models may vary due to ongoing fleet upgrades.)

    Honda CRF 300L
    Included
    5 left
    Optional extras
    Single Room Supplement
    + £435
    Private tour details
    Private tour for Craig
    By request
    December 3, 2027 โ€“ December 12, 2027
    The Monk’s Trail December 3 2027 booking details
    Tour price
    Rider (Incl. Honda CRF 300L)
    £3,510
    Rider (own bike)
    £3,045
    The motorcycles

    (Bike Disclaimer: Bike models may vary due to ongoing fleet upgrades.)

    Honda CRF 300L
    Included
    Optional extras
    Single Room Supplement
    + £435
    Why Ride With Us?

    No guesswork. No cut corners. A proper ride.

    Anyone can stitch together a route and call it an adventure.
    But what happens when the day gets long, the road gets rough, and things stop going to plan?

    We build our trips properly, test them thoroughly, and back them with the crew and support that let you focus on the ride, not the logistics.

    The ride you came for. The support you need.

    Choose Date
    thailand-dirt-bike-tour-jungle-trail-riding-07
    local children in Thailand waiting to say hello as riders pass
    thailand-dirt-bike-tour-dirt-trail-log-obstacle-06
    The Monk's Trail
    from ยฃ3310 ยท Guided & Supported
    Book 12 months ahead, save 5% i Book at least 12 months before departure and save 5% off the base price. Excludes flights and extras. Subject to availability.