The country around Mae Sariang rewards a full day away from town. The Salawin River border area is the standout excursion; the national parks on either side of the valley are good for those who want wilder terrain.
Salawin River Boat Trip
The mighty Salawin River rises in the Himalayas, flows through China, and forms part of the Thailand-Burma border. It remains a great natural wonder little known to foreign tourists. If you pass through Mae Sariang, a boat trip down the Salawin should be on your list.
The trip is easily done as a day excursion. Head to Ban Mae Sam Laep, a Karen and Shan border village on the riverbank where boats depart. You can get there by local songthaew, or by hiring a car or motorbike. From the village, longtail boats are available for hire to cruise downriver through spectacular scenery into Salawin National Park.
Mae Ngao National Park
North of Mae Sariang, Mae Ngao National Park covers forested hills along the Yuam River valley. Less visited than Salawin, it has good birdwatching and a few marked trails. Accessible by motorbike in about 45 minutes on the road heading north toward Mae Hong Son.