The best way to see hill tribes is to go on a trek with a reputable guide who will take you to villages that still follow the traditional ways and explain the significance of them to you. They will also explain the tribal spirit world and its associated rituals.

Unfortunately, the impact of the popular treks has affected the hill tribe way of life and many are now unashamedly commercial. Treks usually include an elephant ride and rafting down a river on a bamboo raft. Occasionally, trekkers will be offered opium - this is illegal.

You may, as a group, organize your own itinerary and then approach a trek company. Prices will be in the order of 500Bt per day.

The Trekking Club is an association of 87 guides experience in leading treks in northern Thailand. All are licensed and insured. The members also lead treks off the beaten path such as to herbal retreats. Visit the Trekking CLub on Loi Kroh Road Soi 6 behind Anusarn Market between 10am and 10pm. (818519 t_tanpidcha@hotmail.com).

Trekking Companies

The TAT (Tourism Authority of Thailand) logo, together with membership number and expiry date should appear on any reputable trekking company's literature. The company will need your passport details for the police. Before leaving, ask if there is anything that you might take for the villagers.

There should be one guide (who will act as translator) and one helper for each group of 10 trekkers.

What to take on a Trek

Travel light with a change of clothes for the evening. Take warm clothing and sleeping bag for the winter months, together with a poncho (around 90Bt) for the rainy season. It can also act as a groundsheet. Take basic medical equipment such as anti-diarrheal pills, sterilizing tablets and mosquito repellent (if trekking anywhere near the Burmese border). Do not rely on a net or on antimalarial tablets.

Valuables

There have been several cases of valuables left in safe keeping at hotels being used during the owner's absence. Chief among these are credit cards. Either take and hide your valuables or use your discretion whether or not to leave them at the hotel.

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