You only live once but if you do it right, once is enough

When most people think of Thailand, beaches and nightlife come to mind. But for me and my friends, October was about venturing into the wild—trekking through the rainforests of Mae Taeng, just north of Chiang Mai near the Myanmar border. What followed was an unforgettable three-day adventure filled with challenges, cultural connections, and reflections on resilience. With a short break between jobs, I was eager to make the most of this incredible experience. 

Day 1: Into the Karen Highlands

Our journey began in the morning, as our guide Jojo picked us up from our Chiang Mai hotel. After a quick stop at a bustling local market, we arrived at a waterfall that roared with the energy of recent rains. Though its currents were too strong for swimming, the sight energized us for the trek ahead.

We began our trek at the base of Wat Mae Sae temple, walking 5.5 kilometers in about three hours. The trail took us uphill through dense bamboo groves and narrow jungle paths. The forest hummed with life—birdcalls, rustling leaves, and the occasional sound of water trickling through the trees. Though the path was slippery from light rain, the trek rewarded us with panoramic views of the Mae Taeng Valley.

By late afternoon, we reached Pong Noi, a Karen hill tribe village perched at 1,400 meters above sea level. The homestay was simple yet welcoming, with a deck that offered breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The villagers greeted us warmly, and we learned about their rich traditions, sustainable farming practices, and deep connection to the land.

The Karen people, originally from the Tibetan plateau and Yunnan region of China, have lived in harmony with nature for centuries. Despite challenges like displacement and economic hardship, they’ve preserved their language, rituals, and community values. Sitting on the deck with a chilled Chang beer (called “elephant pipi” by locals), we felt a profound respect for their way of life.

As night fell, the jungle came alive with sounds, and the crisp mountain air carried a sense of peace. Over dinner, we reflected on the simplicity of village life and the privilege of experiencing it firsthand.

Day 2: A Rainy Detour and Unexpected Joys

Heavy rain began around midnight and continued into the morning, altering our original plan. The swollen Mae Taeng River made camping near it impossible, forcing us to take an alternative route to another Karen village.

The new trail was 5 kilometers long and took about 2.5 hours to complete. We trekked through rolling hills with mist-covered valleys and occasional drizzles. The challenging terrain was invigorating, and after hours of walking, we arrived at a remote village tucked deep in the hills.

Here, the hospitality was unparalleled. Despite rarely hosting visitors, the villagers welcomed us with food, drinks, and warmth. We spent the afternoon on a deck overlooking the valley, sipping beers and sharing stories. The humility and joy of the Karen people left a lasting impression—they seemed genuinely content, finding happiness in simple things like community and nature.

That evening, we bonded over conversations about football, family, and life, with Jojo translating. It was a reminder of how shared experiences can transcend language and cultural barriers.

Day 3: The Wilderness Tests Us

Relentless rain the previous night brought an unexpected twist—Jojo informed us that the bridge we had crossed earlier had been washed away. With supplies running low, we chose to take a longer, less-known route through unfamiliar terrain.

The final day was grueling: an 18-kilometer trek that took us eight hours. We crossed swelled up rivers, navigated slippery trails, and climbed steep ascents. The rain had transformed the forest, creating new streams and muddy pools. Fallen bamboo and debris blocked our path, and the dense canopy amplified the sound of rain cascading through leaves.

Despite the challenges, the rainforest’s raw beauty was captivating. Mist clung to the hills, and the earthy scent of wet soil reminded us of nature’s untamed power. Midway, our guides cooked a quick lunch—a wood-fire barbecue of wild boar and rice. Exhausted but fueled, we pushed on for hours.

As evening approached, we reached the edge of the forest, where local villagers offered us bike rides to our transport. Riding through the rain-soaked hills, we felt a mix of relief and accomplishment.

Lessons from the Mae Taeng Trek

1. Nature’s Unpredictability: The trek was a humbling reminder of nature’s power and unpredictability. From swollen rivers to washed-away bridges, we learned to adapt and trust our guides and the Karen elders, whose knowledge of the land was invaluable.

2. Resilience and Simplicity: The Karen people exemplified resilience, living harmoniously with the land despite limited resources. Their contentment taught us to value simplicity and find joy in the little things—something often overlooked in urban life.

3. Teamwork and Trust: Facing the wilderness required teamwork and trust. From navigating slippery trails to crossing rivers, every step was a collective effort that deepened our bond as friends.

4. Stepping Out of Comfort Zones: Choosing a trek over Thailand’s popular tourist spots was a leap of faith. It reminded us that the most rewarding experiences often lie outside our comfort zones.

5. Cultural Appreciation: The trek wasn’t just about nature; it was a cultural journey. Learning about the Karen people’s traditions, struggles, and resilience added depth to the adventure.

This trek through Mae Taeng was more than a physical challenge—it was a journey of discovery, connection, and growth. The rain, the trails, and the people we met made it an experience I’ll cherish forever. If you ever find yourself in Thailand, I highly recommend stepping off the beaten path and exploring its untamed wilderness—you might just discover a side of yourself you didn’t know existed.