Mae Hong Son Loop motorbike tour
The Mae Hong Son Loop is an iconic 600–700 km motorbike circuit through Northern Thailand’s mountainous terrain, famous for its dramatic winding roads, scenic viewpoints and hill-tribe villages. Riders experience remote landscapes, waterfalls, hot springs and cultural stops between Chiang Mai, Mae Sariang, Mae Hong Son and Pai. This tour is best for experienced riders comfortable with long days on steep, twisty mountain roads. Expect narrow lanes, frequent hairpins and spectacular scenery.
Location
Mae Hong Son Loop (route includes Chiang Mai, Pai, Mae Hong Son, Mae Sariang), Chiang Mai (common start/finish), Thailand
Duration
3–5 days (common options: 3 days/2 nights, 4 days/3 nights, 5 days/4 nights)
Best Time to Visit
Cool, dry season: November to February (clear skies, cooler temps). Secondary window: March to April (warmer, still generally dry). Avoid the heavy monsoon season: May–October (higher risk of landslides, slippery roads).
Pricing
Typical guided tour packages: USD 250–700 per person depending on duration (3–5 days), bike class and inclusions. Self-guided: bike rental THB 500–1,800/day (~USD 15–55) plus fuel, accommodation (budget THB 300–1,200/night), food and entrance fees. Deposit and insurance optional extra.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Over 1,800 mountain curves on the full loop — a motorcyclist’s paradise
Scenic viewpoints and sunrise/sunset vistas over misty valleys
Pai: relaxed town with cafés and hot springs
Mae Hong Son town: temples (Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu) and lakefront charm
Hill-tribe villages and local markets offering cultural encounters
Waterfalls (e.g., Pha Bong, Huai Nam Dang nearby) and natural hot springs
Remote roads with minimal traffic compared to highways — great for focused riding and photography
Itinerary
Chiang Mai → Mae Sariang (or Chiang Mai → Pai option)
Depart Chiang Mai early. On the Mae Sariang route expect long, technical riding with many switchbacks. Stop for breakfast in a local town, take frequent breaks to rest and refuel. Overnight in Mae Sariang (or Pai if you choose the Pai route). Typical riding time: 5–7 hours depending on stops.
Mae Sariang → Mae Hong Son
Shorter day but still twisty. Explore hill-tribe villages en route, scenic overlooks and arrive Mae Hong Son mid/late afternoon. Visit Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu for sunset views. Overnight in Mae Hong Son.
Mae Hong Son → Pai (via scenic mountain passes)
Ride through remote stretches and photo stops. Stop at hot springs to soak and recover. Arrive Pai in late afternoon; explore Pai Walking Street. Overnight in Pai.
Pai → Chiang Mai (return leg)
Return to Chiang Mai via the Mae Rim/Haag routes. Keep an eye on fuel; some stretches have limited petrol stations. Arrive in Chiang Mai in the afternoon to finish the loop. Optional extension: add another day to explore more slowly, or ride the loop in reverse.
Safety Requirements
Valid motorcycle license (International Driving Permit recommended if you’re a foreigner)
Protective riding gear: full-face helmet (DOT/SNELL/ECE certified recommended), armored jacket, gloves, pants, sturdy boots
Experience riding twisty mountain roads and managing heavy braking and downshifting
Comprehensive travel and vehicle insurance (check whether rental insurance covers accidents)
Pre-ride bike check: brakes, tires, lights, oil and fuel capacity
Avoid riding at night on unfamiliar mountain roads
Check weather & road conditions (monsoon rains can cause landslides and slippery surfaces)
Carry a charged phone with local SIM/portable charger and emergency contacts
Tips
Rent a bike suited to your experience: 150–650cc for confidence on climbs and curves — choose ABS if available
Book accommodation in high season (Nov–Feb) in advance — small towns have limited options
Carry cash (Thai baht) for fuel, small eateries and entry fees; ATMs are scarce in remote areas
Plan fuel stops: some stretches between towns are long — refill whenever you can
Start early each day to maximize daylight and cooler temperatures
Ride conservatively on blind corners — stay in your lane and be wary of oncoming vehicles and slow-moving trucks
Respect local culture: dress modestly at temples and ask before photographing people
Bring basic tools, a puncture repair kit and a spare tube if riding tubed tires
Consider a guided tour if you’re unfamiliar with the region or prefer support (mechanic, route leader, phone support)
Monitor altitude/temperature changes; pack layers and a light rain jacket for sudden showers
