Mae Kampong Waterfall

Travelers eager for the fresh mountain air of Mae Kampong Waterfall will find the journey rewarding, though a little preparation helps. The road winds sharply through cloud forests on the way into Mae Kampong village. Arrivals by private car or guided van make for the easiest trip—especially since public transport stops short, still several kilometers from the entrance. Weekends and Thai holidays can draw cheerful crowds, but early mornings often bring a tranquil, almost private experience. No ticket is required; entrance is currently free, but parking is limited.

• Best time to visit: Early mornings, especially on weekdays or during the cool season (November to February), for crisp air and fewer people.
• How to get there: Private cars, motorbikes, or pre-arranged minivan tours from Chiang Mai (~1.5-hour drive); limited songthaew service ends at the village main square.
• Accessibility: Older children, teens, and active adults enjoy the moderate trail; some slippery stone steps and uneven terrain make it challenging for strollers or those with mobility issues.
• Average visit duration: 2 to 3 hours, including time by the waterfall and a snack in Mae Kampong village.

Mae Kampong Waterfall rewards wanderers with seven distinctive tiers, each with its own mood and backdrop. The lower pools sparkle in dappled light—perfect for playful wading or a quick splash. Higher up, the path narrows, shaded by ancient ferns, and leads to hidden alcoves ideal for a snack or photo. The soundtrack: rushing water, cicadas, and the distant clang of cowbells from nearby tea plantations.

• Spectacular 3rd tier pool: The most photogenic, with swirling water and a small ledge for sitting beneath the falls.
• Secluded picnic spots: Benches and flat rocks appear along the way, where families sip locally brewed tea.
• Canopy footbridge: Near the fifth tier, a simple wooden bridge offers sweeping views back over the valley—especially dramatic after rain.
• Traditional Mae Kampong village: After exploring the falls, stroll into the village for hill tribe coffee, spicy snacks, and handwoven crafts from locals—an insight into daily mountain life.
• Cultural tidbit: The area’s cool climate makes it a rare spot for year-round tea and coffee growing; villagers have fostered eco-tourism here for decades while preserving the forest.