Adventure, Luxury & Elephants in Thailand: Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle

Although I didn’t arrive by a long-tail boat along the Ruak River, a signature experience for guests, from the moment I arrived, it was clear this was going to be unlike any other site inspection I’ve done. The wow factor of this off-the-grid luxury camp cannot be overstated. Our group was welcomed with refreshing mocktails before meeting two rescued elephants from the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation, which the camp partners with. Feeding them bananas was an unforgettable first impression, and a reminder of how central conservation is to the camp experience.

Thailand has no shortage of world-class luxury hotels, but what makes this property truly stand out is that it’s the only tented camp in the Four Seasons collection, offering a rare mix of jungle adventure and signature Four Seasons comfort. Designed by the legendary Bill Bensley, the camp effortlessly blends luxurious, safari-style glamping with the exotic, lush jungle, mountains, and rivers of Northern Thailand.

The 15 tents and one Explorer family tent were constructed to preserve the local landscape and pay homage to the Northern Thai tribes. Each tent is individually themed with hand-carved furniture and the artisanal details represent the culture and traditions of the region. The hammered copper bathtubs are a standout, perfect for soaking after a day of adventure. Tent categories include Bamboo, Mekong, and Golden Triangle, each oriented for either jungle or river views.

The camp invites their guests to disconnect from their day-to-day routines and embrace the wilderness experience, from no TVs in tents, to no walls or air-conditioning in public areas. For elephant lovers, the experiences feels personal and unforced. Guests don’t just watch from afar, they can join the mahouts (elephant caretakers) for activities like “Breakfast with Elephants” or gentle bathing sessions. It's a more natural and genuine way to engage with these gentle giants while still being ethical and respectful.

Beyond the elephant encounters, the vibe is best described as adventure-meets-luxury. Guests can immerse themselves in more than 30 activities, from jungle treks and river adventures to cooking classes and wellness sessions, with a Camp Host curating each day to match their interests. The Jungle Spa, tucked among bamboo forests, offers restorative treatments in a storybook setting, while dining showcases inventive menus inspired by all three Golden Triangle countries.

This property is best suited for adventurous families with older children (minimum age 10), couples, honeymooners, or multigenerational groups seeking something extraordinary. If you’ve ever dreamed of a safari but want to stay within Southeast Asia, this is the perfect alternative.

• Getting there: Guests typically fly into Chiang Rai, followed by a scenic transfer and long-tail boat ride on the Ruak River that sets the tone for the adventure.

• Stay length: There is a two-night minimum, but plan for at least three to four nights to fully enjoy the activities without feeling rushed.

• What’s included: Rates are all-inclusive, though specific inclusions vary by package and length of stay.

• Age restrictions: Children are welcome from age 10 and up. There is no dedicated kids’ program, so this camp is best for adventurous families with older kids or teens.

• Insider tip: Don’t skip the Wine Cellar tasting, one of the surprises is locally produced wine and cheese from Thailand!

• Pairing options: For a complete Thailand itinerary, pair this visit with sister properties Four Seasons Chiang Mai, set among emerald rice paddies and rich in cultural immersion, and Four Seasons Koh Samui, a jungle-meets-beach retreat famously featured in White Lotus.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Thailand page.