Tour Guides in Thailand: What Should You Pay Attention To?

A tour with a guide can truly make your trip through Thailand unforgettable, especially if you make the right choice. In this article, you’ll learn what to look for when booking a tour and how to avoid falling into a typical tourist trap.

Licensed Guides and Regions

Thailand has strict regulations for tour guides. Only certified guides are allowed to work, and they often have a license for a specific region:

• National (blue license): Allowed to work anywhere in Thailand.

• Regional (green license): Allowed to guide only in certain provinces, such as Chiang Mai and Northern Thailand.

It is important to choose a guide with the correct license, especially if you want an in-depth and legitimate experience.

What Kind of Tour Do You Want?

Many tours in Thailand follow the same route, with crowded minivans, standard stops, and little flexibility. But if you’re looking for a genuine experience, a private tour is the best choice.

With a personally tailored tour, you decide what you want to see and experience Thailand in a way that suits you. This means:

• ✅ Personal contact beforehand – Discuss your wishes and get tailored advice.

• ✅ No rushed schedule – You set the pace.

• ✅ Flexibility along the way – Want to stay longer somewhere or add something extra? No problem.

• ✅ Local expertise – A guide truly familiar with the region shows you hidden gems.

Price and What’s Included?

The cheapest tours are not always the best. Look carefully at what is included:

• Is transportation and entrance fee included in the price?

• How large is the group? Small groups or private tours offer a better experience.

• Is the guide truly experienced and fluent in English?

Paying a few extra euros can drastically improve your travel experience.

Tipping: What Is Normal?

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. A guideline:

• 💰 Private guide: 300-500 THB per day

• 💰 Group guide: 50-100 THB per person

• 💰 Driver: 100-200 THB per day

Choose Wisely and Make Your Trip Unforgettable

By contacting your guide beforehand and choosing a flexible, personal tour, you will have a much better experience than with standard mass tourism. Want to truly discover Chiang Mai and Northern Thailand? Then a private tour is the best choice!