Tour FAQ | Siam Enduro
Motorcycle Tour FAQ
Find answers to the most common questions in our tour FAQ, covering riding, booking, and what to expect on Thailand motorcycle tours. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned rider, get prepared for your next adventure.
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Travel & Entry Requirements
Do I need a visa for Thailand?
If you’re from a country eligible for visa exemption—such as the UK, US, most EU nations, Australia, and others—you don’t need a visa for stays of up to 30 days. This visa-free entry is granted on arrival at most international airports.
If you plan to stay longer, you should apply for a tourist visa in advance through a Thai embassy or consulate. In many cases, the 30-day stay can also be extended once for an additional 30 days at a local immigration office.
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Thailand and always check the latest entry requirements before you travel, as rules can change.
Do I need any vaccinations?
No vaccines are required for Thailand, Laos, or Myanmar, but it’s recommended to be up to date on Tetanus, and consider Hepatitis A or Typhoid.
Malaria tablets aren’t usually necessary during the cool season, when mosquito activity is low, but it’s still a good idea to bring repellent.
Mild stomach issues are common so anti-diarrhea medication is recommended, and always check with a travel health professional before your trip.
Do I need extra insurance?
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended to cover thing such as medical treatment, trip cancellations, and personal liability.
If you’re renting a vehicle, we highly recommend additional coverage, as local motorbike insurance is often very limited.
If you book through HC-Travel (UK) or one of our German offices, suitable insurance options will be offered.
What documents should I bring?
Bring your passport and an International Driving Permit, along with your regular driving license.
Make photocopies of all important documents—passport, license, credit cards, travel insurance, and flight details—and store them separately from the originals. It’s also a good idea to keep digital copies on your phone or cloud storage.
Packing & Preparation
What clothes should I bring?
Bring jeans or other thick trousers to protect against mosquitoes, especially in the evenings. Light boots or cowboy boots work well with jeans for extra protection. In the cool season (Nov–Feb), pack warm layers like sweatshirts or pullovers. In the hot season (Mar–Aug), a light sweatshirt or flannel shirt is enough for cooler evenings. Flip-flops are useful for basic guesthouse bathrooms, especially in places like Laos—they’re cheap and easy to buy in Thailand.
Do I need to bring enduro gear?
We have some enduro gear available (helmets, gloves, trousers, etc.), but sizes are limited—so we recommend bringing your own if possible. You can also buy gear locally in Thailand; brands like FOX and Scott are available at lower prices than back home. For example: enduro pants start around THB 2,500, goggles at THB 1,300, and gloves from THB 450.
Bring a well-fitting helmet (not too old), as we may ride after dark when bugs are everywhere—so either a visor or goggles are a must. Gloves are essential for protection against sharp leaves and sunburn. Long sleeves are strongly recommended to avoid sunburn, and make sure your shirt overlaps your gloves.
Enduro or motocross pants are ideal—they dry quickly and handle dust and rain well. Jeans aren’t practical. Off-road boots are a must for protecting your feet and shins. In the cool season (Nov–Feb), a light jacket helps with cold mornings. In the hot season, go with a shirt, protectors, and a breathable jacket. Rain gear isn’t needed in the dry season, but from May onward, bring a light plastic set just in case. Protectors can make a big difference if you fall, so they’re highly recommended.
Should I bring cash or cards?
Your bank card will work at most machines here without issue. We recommend notifying your bank before traveling to avoid any card blocks. It’s also wise to carry around $200 (or equivalent in pounds or euros) in cash as a backup, plus a credit card for emergencies.
For our German customers, the DKB credit card is highly recommended due to excellent service and zero foreign transaction fees.
Should I bring my camera?
Absolutely! If you enjoy photography, you’ll love capturing the stunning landscapes, local life, and riding scenes.
Conditions can be tough on gear, so come prepared: bring polarizing filters to reduce glare and haze, and pack waterproof covers or sturdy plastic bags to protect your camera during river crossings or sudden rain. Without protection, your camera could get damaged.
If you prefer, a good phone camera can also capture great shots, but be mindful of protecting it too.
What else should I bring?
Bring a small flashlight with extra batteries—it’s always handy, especially in remote areas.
A bum bag (fanny pack or waist pouch) is highly recommended for your important documents and money. Wrap items in plastic for protection and keep the bag on you at all times. While riding, wear it front or back—whichever feels most comfortable. In crowded places, keep it in front and hold it securely.
Carry some small change and photocopies of your documents in your wallet, but avoid showing large amounts of cash.
If you like sending postcards, don’t forget a list of your friends’ addresses!
Can I charge my electronics during the tour?
Yes, you can charge your devices at all accommodations where we stay. Bring a universal travel adapter for Thailand’s plug types (Type A, B, C, F). A power bank is also useful for days on the road.
On-Tour Experience
What's the weather like in Chiang Mai?
Chiang Mai has three main seasons:
- Rainy season (May–November): Afternoon showers are common, especially in September, but mornings are often clear with great mountain views. Evenings are usually dry.
- Cool season (mid-November–February): Dry, pleasant weather with rare rain. This is the best time to visit.
- Hot season (March–May): Temperatures can reach up to 40°C (104°F), but mornings and evenings remain comfortable due to lower humidity.
Chiang Mai is less humid than southern Thailand and experiences noticeable temperature changes between day and night, and across seasons.
Do you offer rider training?
Yes, we offer individual rider training before every enduro tour. This helps beginners and returning riders get familiar with the bikes and local terrain. Training happens near Chiang Mai, in areas similar to what you’ll face on tour, and is tailored to your skill level. We usually offer three-day courses but can arrange shorter sessions as needed. You’ll learn essential skills like crossing logs and rivers, handling hills, sand, mud, and slippery corners.
During training, you stay at our base camp 30 km north of Chiang Mai, with comfortable bungalows and off-road trails right outside. After riding, you can relax with a cold beer and a hearty meal before unwinding by the campfire.
What sort of accommodation will we stay in?
While we can’t confirm exact hotels well in advance, the photo album below showcases the resorts and hotels we used during the 2022-2023 season to give you an idea of the quality and style of accommodation you can expect on tour.
Are there support vehicles?
Yes, a 4WD jeep follows the tour group for convenience and safety, carrying your luggage, spare parts, tools, fruits, and cool drinks. Support vehicles accompany nearly all tours except during enduro training or when the group has fewer than four riders. In these cases, you’ll carry a small bag (around 6 kg) on your bike, while the tour guide and leader carry the essential tools and parts.
Do I need to be an expert rider?
No expert skills are required. If you’re comfortable riding a motorcycle on paved roads and handling basic off-road challenges like slow-speed control, you’ll manage our trails just fine. Our routes are carefully chosen to be fun and manageable, with no tricky or dangerous sections.
If you want extra confidence, consider booking a training day before the tour for personalized instruction and practice.
How We Ride
What should I know about Thai culture?
Thai culture differs from Western customs, so it’s important to be mindful and respectful. Thais are famously warm and polite. Smiling is common and can mean many things beyond happiness, like greeting or smoothing over awkward moments.
Show respect for the monarchy, as it is deeply revered. The national anthem plays twice daily and before movies; everyone stands during this time. Never insult or joke about the king or royal family.
Buddhism is central to Thai life. Dress modestly in temples—no shorts or tank tops—and always remove your shoes before entering. Women should avoid touching monks. Also, never touch someone’s head, as it’s considered sacred.
Avoid pointing your feet at people or religious objects and never step over anyone; always walk around them instead.
Being respectful and polite goes a long way toward a positive experience in Thailand.
