Tak Province, Thailand
Mae Sot Airport (MAQ) is the main airport directly serving Mae Sot, handling domestic flights. Phitsanulok Airport (PHS) and Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) serve as alternatives. From these, onward land travel to Mae Sot becomes necessary. Nok Air and Thai Lion Air operate daily direct flights between Bangkok's Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) and Mae Sot (MAQ). There are no direct international flights to Mae Sot Airport; international travelers typically fly into Bangkok and then connect domestically.
Mae Sot Airport is a small domestic airport. It presents basic facilities: check-in counters, a small waiting area, desks for car rental, and limited food and drink options. Upon arrival, several transfer options are available to Mae Sot town: songthaews (shared pick-up trucks) are the most common and economical, typically 50-100 THB per person. Taxis are available, though less common. Some hotels offer shuttle services. Rental cars are an option for self-driving.
Flights are available year-round.
Prices are higher during peak season and holidays.
Only domestic flights to Mae Sot.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is legally required with your home country driving license.
Local rental agencies operate in Mae Sot. International companies might have a presence at Mae Sot Airport.
Find car rentals via DiscoverCars.com.
Mae Sot is an inland town. As such, sea or river arrivals from major international or inter-city routes are not applicable for direct tourist access. There are no ferry services or cruise ports in Mae Sot.
The Moei River, which borders Myanmar, sees local longtail boat services. These are mainly for specific border trade, transporting goods and local people across the river, or for short scenic trips. They are not a main mode of arrival or departure for tourists traveling from other cities in Thailand. Their use is limited to localized movements along the river.
Immigration procedures at seaports are not applicable, as there are no seaports in Mae Sot or its immediate vicinity. All international arrivals occur via air or land at designated immigration checkpoints.
Connections to land transportation are not applicable for sea/river arrivals, as the main modes of entry for tourists are by air or land. All long-distance travel to Mae Sot concludes through road or air networks.
As a small domestic airport, facilities are limited. You will find basic check-in counters, a waiting area, and a small shop where you can purchase snacks or drinks.
This terminal provides basic facilities, including ticket counters, waiting areas with seating, and small eateries where you can grab a meal or a drink before your journey.
Allow 1-1.5 hours for domestic flights.
Arrive 30 minutes before bus departure.
Factor in time for immigration procedures.
A representation of Mae Sot Airport (MAQ), your main air gateway for domestic travel.
The Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge 1, a land crossing, and Mae Sot Bus Station, a central hub for overland travel.
Long-distance buses from Bangkok and Chiang Mai offer varied service classes.
Drive on the left. Be alert for motorbikes. Mountain roads near Tak require careful driving.
Verify Myanmar entry rules; consider day passes. Bridge 2 also open for traffic.
For the fastest route, flying to Mae Sot Airport is suggested. For scenic and cultural experiences, consider a bus journey from Chiang Mai or Bangkok.
