After morning pickup at your hotel, you’ll head north with your professional guide into the jungle-covered mountains outside of Chiang Rai. Your car climbs winding roads with spectacular scenery  have your camera handy to snap photos!

While ascending the mountain, you'll stop in an Akha and a Yao village and get a glimpse of their daily life. Your local guide will explain the distinguishing features of each hill tribes' traditional garments and languages.

Next you’ll arrive at the primarily Shan village of Thoet Thai. Admire the Shan temple and learn about Shan culture and religious practices. Don't let the serene atmosphere of today's village fool you, it once served as the headquarters of notorious drug lord Khun Sa's operations until the Thai army forced him out in 1982, after a long battle to eradicate the opium trade.

After hearing the incredible story of Khun Sa, drive to a scenic vista point where you'll stop for a picnic lunch. Afterward head to the Chinese Haw village of Phaya Prai and walk along a gorgeous mountain path near the Thai-Myanmar border while your guide tells you about this region's shift from opium poppy cultivation to tea production.

You'll then drive to the Choui Fong Tea plantation in Mae Salong. At nearly 4,000 feet (1,200 meters) above sea level, the cool climate is excellent for tea cultivation. You'll learn about the tea-making process from your guide as you stroll through the tea fields, then take a break for an oolong tea tasting at the plantation’s tearoom. Check out the gift shop if you'd like to buy some tea to bring home.

When you’re rejuvenated, you will drive to the Akha village of Laoma to finish your tour. Your driver will then return you to your Chiang Rai hotel in the late afternoon.