Your Journey Begins Long Before You Arrive
One of the pleasures of visiting Nan is that getting there still feels like part of the adventure.
Unlike many destinations, where the airport transfer is simply something to endure, the journey to Visama Explorer Nan is a delight that introduces you to the landscapes and communities that define this corner of Northern Thailand. The mountains become steeper, the air cooler and the roads quieter. By the time you reach our valley, you’ll already have a sense that you’ve left everyday life behind.
Whether you’re arriving by air, by car or continuing overland from another part of Northern Thailand, reaching Visama is well worth taking your time over.
If you’re driving from Bangkok, Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai, we recommend spending your first night in Nan City before continuing to Visama Explorer Nan the following day. The drive from Nan to Bo Kluea is one of the highlights of the journey. It deserves to be enjoyed at a relaxed pace, with time to stop at viewpoints, cafés and villages along the way. Arriving well rested also makes the mountain roads far more enjoyable.
We’ve put together our favourite places to stay in Nan City to help you plan your journey
From Nan to Visama Explorer Nan
One of the pleasures of staying at Visama Explorer Nan is that there are two
beautiful road leading to the camp.
Both journeys take around 21/2 to 3 hours, and both end with the final scenic
drive north from Bo Kluea through Ban Sapan to Visama Explorer Nan. Each
offers a different perspective on Nan’s landscapes, making them ideal for
using one route on arrival and the other on departure.
Route One: Via Pua and Route 1256
The classic mountain route follows Highway 101 north from Nan City before
turning east at Pua onto the famous Route 1256.
Widely regarded as one of Thailand’s most scenic mountain roads, Route
1256 winds through the forests of Doi Phu Kha National Park, passing
dramatic viewpoints, coffee plantations and small villages before descending
into the Bo Kluea valley.
For many visitors, this drive becomes one of the highlights of their time in
Nan.
Route Two: Via Santikhiri and Route 1081
The second route takes a quieter path through the eastern highlands,
following Highway 1169 before joining Route 1081 towards Bo Kluea.
Along the way you’ll pass the mountain community of Kiow Muang, the
viewpoints around Santikhiri, and one of Nan’s most photographed
landmarks-the famous Number 3 Curve, where the winding road forms the
shape of the numeral three as it disappears into the valley below.
This route offers a different character, with fewer visitors, sweeping
mountain scenery and several rewarding places to stop before reaching Bo
Kluea.
Our Recommendation
If your itinerary allows, arrive via Route 1256 and return to Nan City via
Route 1081.
Together, they form a rewarding circular journey through two very different
parts of Nan Province, allowing you to experience more of the province
without ever retracing your steps.
Whatever route you choose, our advice is simple: don’t rush it.
Should You Drive Yourself?
Absolutely. The roads are well maintained and suitable for ordinary
passenger cars. Although Route 1256 includes plenty of bends, it is a
comfortable drive for anyone familiar with mountain roads.
If you’re planning to explore Nan before or after your stay, hiring a car offers
the greatest flexibility.
If you’d rather relax and enjoy the scenery, our private transfers provide an
equally enjoyable alternative.
Private Transfers
Many guests choose to let us take care of the journey.
Our guided transfers are more than simply transport between the airport
and the camp. Depending on your package, the route includes carefully
selected stops that introduce you to the landscapes, culture and
communities of Nan.
Instead of arriving at the camp as quickly as possible, you’ll arrive with a
much richer understanding of the destination.
Transfers can be arranged from:
Nan Nakhon Airport
Hotels in Nan City
Nan Bus Terminal
Other locations within Nan Province
(Journey back to Nan from Visama Explorer Nan)
Coming from Laos?
Visama Explorer Nan also makes an excellent first overnight stop before
continuing on a wider Northern Thailand journey.
Travellers arriving from Luang Prabang can cross the border at Huay Kon,
one of the quieter international crossings between Laos and Thailand. From
there it’s around two hours through the Nan highlands to the camp.
If you’re planning a multi-day itinerary, our team will be happy to help.
Is the road suitable for ordinary cars?
Yes. All roads to Visama Explorer Nan are fully paved and suitable for standard passenger vehicles. Check your tire pressure before leaving Nan City.
Is Route 1256 difficult to drive?
It’s a winding mountain road rather than a difficult one. Drive steadily, enjoy the scenery and allow extra time for viewpoints and coffee stops.
Should I rent a car?
If you’re planning to explore Nan independently, a rental car is an excellent choice. Make sure you have your rental car arranged before arrival, as fleets are limited, in particular during long weekends. If you’d rather relax from the moment you land, we recommend our private transfer.
Is there parking at the camp?
Yes. Complimentary parking is available for all guests.
Can I charge an electric vehicle?
We’re currently working towards EV charging facilities at the lodge. The nearest charging station is near Sapan, around 28-35 KM from Visama Explorer Nan. Please contact us before travelling if you’re arriving by electric vehicle.
Is the journey suitable for children?
Absolutely. Families often discover that the drive is part of the adventure. Along the way you’ll find a sheep farm, a chocolate workshop, scenic viewpoints and plenty of places to pause, making the journey engaging and enjoyable for travellers of all ages.
Is the journey suitable for children?
Absolutely. Families often discover that the drive is part of the adventure. Along the way you’ll find a sheep farm, a chocolate workshop, scenic viewpoints and plenty of places to pause, making the journey engaging and enjoyable for travellers of all ages.
