Great Adventure Asia Tour 33 Nights / 34 Days
Extensively combines four wonderful countries for those who look for amazing holiday trip to see best destinations and adventure of Southeast Asia: Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand. The journey starts from Saigon’s vibrant city, the historical war site of Cu Chi Tunnels and the must-see Mekong Delta, followed by coastal cities of central Vietnam for Da Nang’s Golden Bridge atop Ba Na Hills, the heritage site of Old Hoi An and Hue Imperial City, and pleasantly relax in Halong Cruise admired by beautiful Halong Bay, limestone formation and natural beauty. In Cambodia, witness the marvelous Angkor Wat along with incredible complex, have fun on ox cart ride, Tonle Sap’s mangroves admired by tall stilt-houses and observe the iconic Phnom Penh dotting with the striking Royal Palace, national museum, historical sites, interact locals from cyclo ride and get on board for sunset cruise followed by delicate dinner. For Laos, visit the sleepy Vientiane Capital along with Buddha Park, indulgently emerges yourselves in the natural town of Vang Vieng admired by the spectacular scenery before observe Luang Prabang’s the respectful culture and heritage site, the picturesque Kuang Si Waterfalls, mountainous Pak Ou Caves, witness Alms Giving searching by saffron monks, the reputable Wat Xiengthong and feeding buffaloes. Continue by boat navigate on Mekong River to reveal the peaceful Pakbeng and its natural beauty, then cross the border to Chiang Rai for amazing experience from hill tribe villages to cultural insights, the golden triangle plus Chiang Mai’s fascinating temples, elephant and sanctuary. Finally, spend a few days to explore beautiful Phuket’s beaches and islands, and visit Bangkok’s major tourist attractions, the famous floating market in Ratchaburi, curious dead railway and bridge on the River Kwai of Kanchanaburi.
Destinations
Saigon → Hoi An → Da Nang → Hue → Hanoi → Halong Bay → Siem Reap → Phnom Penh → Vientiane → Vang Vieng → Luang Prabang → Pakbeng → Chiang Rai → Chiang Mai → Phuket → Bangkok (+Ratchaburi & Kanchanaburi)
Or Vice Versa
Program Detail
Day 1: Saigon – Arrival
International flight is NOT included in the tour price.
Our friendly team (guide and driver) will welcome you at the arrival gate upon your arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport then transfers to a reserved hotel for check in and simply enjoy yourselves free time at hotel or explore central city by your own.
Overnight in Saigon
*Meal Plan: None
Day 2: My Tho – Mekong Delta Tour
Breakfast is served at hotel. We set off 8.00am out of the bustling Saigon straight to My Tho boat pier where we process to embark a local motorboat which slides on Mekong Delta overlooking islets, fish farms and floating houses admired by fishing and trading activities on boats. In Unicorn Island, we will be pampered by Vietnamese traditional music depicting a folk art rooted from South Vietnam and get refreshed by tropical fruit tasting. Continue by canoe, we explore the natural beauty of Mekong canals with lush beautiful coconut trees stretching at both sides until we enjoy the walking tour to observe bee keeping farm and sample honey tea before having lunch. After lunch break, we catch our regular boat to coconut candy workshop to learn the processing of how coconut candies are made, along with a chance to taste and chew sweet candies or purchase a few packs before we get in our awaiting car/minivan and drive back to Saigon City in the evening.
Overnight in Saigon
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3: Cu Chi Tunnels & Saigon City Tour
Breakfast is served at hotel. Today we begin our adventure trip at 8.00am out of bustling Saigon City, pass countryside to explore the famous attraction of Cu Chi tunnels which are known as the deadly dangerous trap tunnel networks and was used by Viet Cong army as the facility base to supply food, accommodation, storage, escape rooms as well as strong holes to fight against their enemies during French and American war from 1948 until 1975. Learn from your tour guide about this interesting and sad history of Vietnam, and personally experience the real feeling when crawl into the tunnels to reveal some remnants left after the war ended.
Enjoy Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon, we return for guided Saigon City along with War Remnants Museum that you can witness Indochina war history while browsing various items relating Vietnam War, visit the fascinating architecture of Reunification Palace which was the former workplace and residence of the President of the Republic of Vietnam, admired by French colonial buildings of Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office, we then stroll at Jade Emperor Pagoda before go shopping at the famous Ben Thanh market where you observe trading exchanges and you can’t absolutely ignore to purchase some souvenirs.
Overnight in Saigon
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4: Saigon - Flight to Da Nang, Drive to Hoi An & Hoi An Street Food
Breakfast is served at hotel. Transfers (no guide) to airport for domestic flight to Da Nang City.
Upon arrival, you will be greeted by our escort guide and driver then transfer to a booked hotel in Hoi An and simply have free time.
Evening at 5.00pm, we process to the old town of Hoi An where we excitingly enjoy the walking street food tour to discover famous Vietnamese dishes including delicate Vietnamese sandwich called “Banh Mi”, Barbecue pork rolled in rice paper and other yummy snacks (Banh Beo and Banh Khot). Continue to observe marketplace area with various local food stalls admired by interesting activities, we go zic and zac through small alley to Hoi An Riverfront to catch the night street highlight of cultural Hoi An town and cheerfully end up at a local restaurant for delicious dinner followed by a local beer.
Overnight in Hoi An
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5: Hoi An – Heritage of Hoi An, Marble Mountain & Da Nang
Breakfast is served at hotel. Today we’ll discover the well-preserved old town of Hoi An which is known as a UNESCO world cultural heritage site because of its unique architecture that reflects both indigenous and foreign cultures. Start with the most remarkable Japanese Covered Bridge dates back to the 16th century, traditional Fujian Assembly Hall which gives a worth visit, continue to observe the exotic architecture of Tan Ky Old House, have an exciting walking in the colorful lantern street and take beautiful photos before visiting Hoi An central market where you can go shopping around.
Afternoon, drive to Da Nang with spending a great sight to Marble Mountains which represent to five elements: water, fire, earth, wood and metal, also a home to religious pagodas, shrines and hidden caves. Enjoy climbing up with 108 steps to the top and tranquilly take a wonderful breathtaking with the spectacular views of Da Nang City, and we will go to explore a few hidden caves (or skip caves) and Tam Thai pagoda. If you’re font of handicraft works, Tien Hieu Marble Handicraft Sculptures is an ideal for observation then we drive straight to a booked hotel in Da Nang.
Overnight in Da Nang
*Meal Plan: Breakfast
Day 6: Da Nang – Ba Na Hills, Golden Bridge & My Khe Beach
Breakfast is served at hotel. We leave at 8.00am to Ba Na Hills where we discover the fascinating beauty of Da Nang City from the summit of popular Ba Na Hills. Once we arrived, we process to take cable car to observe variety of exciting places included Le Jardin D’Amour Flower Garden, the impressive Linh Ung Pagoda, Buddhist statue and walk inside the tunnel to visit wine cellar with a chance to taste a glass of wine. Continue to stroll at the must-see Golden Bridge where you capture the beauty of the sky, nature and enjoy the breathtaking while Golden Bridge is extremely considered as one of the most pleasant places to take romantic photos.
Enjoy lunch at one of restaurants in Ba Na.
Note: If you’re really font of the recreation of French architectures and want to have some funs with exciting time in Ba Na, there Fantasy Park and French Village are the ideals for you to enjoy variety of games and activities: Alpine coaster, wall climbing, racing simulators, dance performances etc. To do this, you have to skip My Khe Beach and spend the entrance tickets at your own account.
Afternoon, we return to our awaiting car/minivan then drive directly to My Khe beach – one of the most beautiful, natural coastal cities in Vietnam. It is a white sand coast with clear water and a pleasant beach for relaxing, swimming, sunbathing and unwind yourselves at your own free time before returning hotel in the evening.
Overnight in Da Nang
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 7: Da Nang to Hue, Hue City Tour & Sunset Cruise
Breakfast is served at hotel. Check out, we leave at 8.30am from Da Nang via Hai Van Pass to Hue, en-route at beautiful Hai Van Pass admired by natural beauty of mountain range and the blue coast where it’s a good morning to take a wonderful breathtaking and capture picturesque photos. Arrived, checked in and have rest of free time.
Afternoon, we set off to explore the three significant mausoleum emperors of Minh Mang, Khai Dinh and Tu Duc, those tombs have unique blend French & Royal architectures along with interesting history that you can learn from your tour guide about Nguyen Dynast dates back to 12th century. We continue our adventure to Kim Long Village to observe local people making conical hats and colorful joss sticks.
Evening, we get on board for sunset cruise with a welcome cocktail, the boat cruise slowly slides along the Perfume River admired by soft evening at Hue imperial city before enjoying special dinner followed by Vietnamese traditional music performance on boat. Disembark and get our car/minivan back to the hotel around 8.45pm.
Overnight in Hue
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Dinner Cruise
Day 8: Hue Imperial Citadel & Flight to Hanoi
Breakfast is served at hotel. We’re heading out at 8.00am to Dong Ba market where we stroll to observe citizen daily life with interesting local trades then continue to visit the world heritage site “Hue Imperial Citadel” which is considered as the most famous attraction along with unique architectures, detailed arts and works on walls, and a rich history which dates back to hundreds of years ago. The impressive structures, cultural decorates, Purple Forbidden City and the history definitely give your day a pretty worth visit. Next, we drive along The Perfume River to the attractive, religious Thien Mu Pagoda where you will have a pleasant walking to see beautiful surrounding and learn from your guide about its mystery legend.
Enjoy delicious Vietnamese lunch at a selected local restaurant.
The rest of the day is reserved as free and easy before transferring to airport for flight to Hanoi Capital.
Upon arrival, you will be friendly greeted by our escort guide and driver then transfer to a booked hotel in Hanoi and simply have free time after check in.
Overnight in Hanoi
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 9: Fully Guided Hanoi City Tour
Breakfast is served at hotel. We set off at 8.00am for a fully guided tour within Ba Dinh Square, visit the main attractions included the famous Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda with most interesting architecture and 10th century Temple of Literature – the first national university of Vietnam along with rich history. Enjoy delicious lunch at Hoang Cuisine restaurant (or similar).
Afternoon, we observe Hoa Lo Prison which tells you an interesting war from French colonial time to Vietnam and American War. Continue to visit Vietnam Museum of Ethnology – the significant place to witness the best collection, documentation, exhibition and preserving the cultural and historic patrimony of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. Next, we take rickshaw (cyclo) explore the popular Old Quarter admired by attractive daily life and bustling local activities. Ending the cyclo ride at Thang Long Opera Theatre, we then enjoy a traditional, unique water puppet show.
Overnight in Hanoi
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 10: Hanoi – Halong Bay Cruise
You will be greeted by our escort guide and driver at railway station then transfer to a booked hotel for refreshment and enjoy breakfast.
*(Private car/minivan round trip transfers Halong Bay is available upon request).
Prepare yourselves with light packing ready to be picked up by shuttle bus between 8.00-8.30am at your hotel and start your trip to explore the most amazing Halong Bay in the North of Vietnam. On the way, we will have a quick stop in the middle of the way to rest. We will reach Halong cruise port around 12.30pm then process the registration and get transferred by tender to Swan Cruise. After safety brief, a welcome drink and checking in, delicious Vietnamese set menu will be served while leisurely cruising further into Bai Tu Long Bay, enjoy kayaking through the karst and breathtaking nature, swimming and relaxing before getting back to the cruise for sunset party.
Evening, have sumptuous set dinner on board and it’s your free time to challenge yourself in Vietnamese puzzle games, or gathers your group/family for a board game; try your luck with squid fishing or simply have a cocktail and enjoy the quiet night on the bay.
Overnight in Cruise Halong Bay
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Note:
There are many cruise companies operate from standard to luxury cruises to Halong Bay and every cruise companies have their similar cruise itineraries. The above cruise itinerary is detailed according to Swan Cruise’s standard itinerary. If you chose to stay at another cruise, cruise itinerary will then be provided at the time you confirmed. If you really love Halong Bay and want to stay a night longer, 2nights/3days cruise is available, so feel free to speak about this with our sale team.
Day 11: Halong Bay Cruise, Back to Hanoi
Rise a bit early in the morning for Sunrise Tai-chi section on sundeck or catch a morning view of the stunning bay’s landscape with a cup of tea or coffee.
Breakfast will be served in Western style, familiar to you to fulfill your strength and ready for another exploring day to the well-hidden Thien Canh Son Cave for an hour then return to the boat you will have about 30 minutes to freshen up and finish packing.
Around 10.00, attend a Vietnamese cooking demonstration. You can quickly learn a simple but delicious Vietnamese dish or challenge yourself in fruit and vegetable carving. Next, we enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch on the boat while the cruise is heading back to the harbor and disembark at Halong cruise port. At 12.30pm: our shuttle bus will take you back to Hanoi and arrive in the evening around 16.00-17.00pm.
Overnight in Hanoi
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 12: Hanoi - Flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia
Breakfast is served at hotel. Enjoy the rest of free time in Hanoi before transferring to airport for flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia.
Upon arrival, you will be friendly greeted by our escort guide and driver then transfer to a booked hotel in Siem Reap and simply have free time after check in.
Overnight in Siem Reap
*Meal Plan: Breakfast
You may opt to visit Siem Reap’s most unique, authentic, top-rated entertainment! – Phare Cambodian Circus that won the Guinness World Record and it is the only unique Phare Circus performance (no animals) which is unlike any other circus in the world: theater, story, dance, high-energy music and circus arts, and impressively inspires Cambodia culture and arts etc.
Day 13: Full Day Guided Angkor Discovery
Breakfast is served at hotel. We’re journeying out of hotel at 8.00am the South Gate of Angkor Thom atop 4 giant faces that religiously represents compassion, sympathy, equanimity and charity. Stroll around Bayon temple consisting of more than 200 smiling faces in stone, admired by interesting temples including Baphuon, Phimeanakas, terrace of leper king and terrace of elephant. Resume the journey to visit Ta Prohm temple adorned with the stunning, amazing tree roots where Lara Croft Tomb Raider was filmed.
Enjoy Khmer set lunch followed by a soft drink or fresh coconut juice at a selected local restaurant.
Afternoon, continue to witness the marvelous Angkor Wat – the world’s heritage listed by UNESCO in 1992 and the largest unrivaled monument in the world. Built by Suryavarman II in 12th Century, Angkor Wat is considered as one of the top destinations in Asia and is a must-see in your lifetime. Learning from your tour guide the amazing history, its ancestral incredible, architectural masterpieces and the finest carvings dates back to the Khmer Empire when it dominated the largest parts of Southeast Asia.
Note: Visiting beautiful sunset is available at Phnom Bakheng, please speak to our tour guide to manage this for you. This is a hiking up (Approx. 30 minutes/way) to the hill and it’s always touristy or skip it if you feel tired.
Overnight in Siem Reap
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 14: Oxcart Ride, Kampong Phluk Village & Apsara Performance
Breakfast is served at hotel. We head out of hotel at 8.00am for countryside sightseeing along with a visit at local market to see interesting trades. Next, we grab the opportunity by taking ox cart ride (short ride only) venturing through home gardens overlooking rice fields, interact the local people and come across animals, and stilt houses. Continue heading to Kampong Phluk village of Tonle Sap Lake. We process to take a boat trip along canal toward the centre of Kampong Phluk then the boat slows down to let you enjoy the surrounding admired by amazing houses atop high poles, come across the highlight of fishing activities as well as see people selling fruits/vegetable/meats on their boats, you sometimes see kids in student uniforms coming back from their classes. Witness how life works on the water and how people make the lake as home then we resume take canoe to explore the pleasant mangroves, enjoy the serenity while taking picturesque photos and you may see a few waterbirds. Continue by our main boat to see the great lake of Tonle Sap, learn from your tour guide about ecosystem and its rich biosphere reserve. Return hotel for break and refreshment.
Evening, transfer to have Khmer set dinner followed by traditional Apsara dance performance at a selected local restaurant.
Overnight in Siem Reap
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Dinner Show
Day 15: Siem Reap to Phnom Penh by Private Car/Minivan
Breakfast is served at hotel. Check out and we leave hotel at 8.30am and drive with 6 hours toward Phnom Penh Capital. On the way, we stop to sample a few bites of Bamboo sticky rice with learning how it is made, have a short visit at the 12th century ancient bridge at Kampong Kdei – the bridge was built in 12th century during Angkor time, and a chance to dare tasting the deep fried insects at Skun village before we’re reaching a booked hotel in Phnom Penh in the evening.
Note: Domestic flight is available upon request.
Overnight in Phnom Penh
*Meal Plan: Breakfast
Day 16: Phnom Penh – Tuol Sleng, Killing Field, National Museum & Sunset Cruise
Breakfast is served at hotel. Today our guide and driver meet you at hotel’s lobby at 8.00am then drive to witness the tragic site of Cheug Ek – the killing field that proceeded more than 20 thousands of civilians and the site is connecting with Tuol Sleng Museum – was the former school that was transformed to Tortured Prison S21. Stroll around Russian market for shopping.
Afternoon, we go for a guided tour at the National Museum, the world’s most important collection of Cambodian antique sculptures and carvings. Next, continue to visit Wat Phnom with interesting legendary of founding place of Phnom Penh Capital. Return hotel refreshment and short break.
Evening, we head to Phnom Penh’s Riverside then get on board with a welcome cocktail while the boat is slowly cruising along Mekong & Tonle Bassac, watch the nice sunset fading at horizon before Western set dinner (or buffet) is started to serve, unwind yourself with colorful Phnom Penh nightlights. Disembark and return hotel.
Overnight in Phnom Penh
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Dinner Cruise
Day 17: Royal Palace, Market Tour By Rickshaw (Cyclo) & Flight to Vientiane, Laos
Breakfast is served at hotel. We leave hotel at 8.00am to take a challenge of cyclo ride (rickshaw) along riverfront for fantastic morning highlight of Phnom Penh Capital toward Independent Monument where we stop to capture some beautiful photos before resuming the ride to stroll around central market to see bustling local trades. Finished the cyclo ride at Royal Palace, we walk to visit The Royal Palace – a complex of buildings which are served as the royal residence for the King of Cambodia, admired by impressive Silver Pagoda with over 5000 solid silver tiles and other Royal Stupas, shrines, monuments etc.
Enjoy Khmer family set lunch at Bopha Titanic restaurant by Phnom Penh Riverside.
Enjoy the rest of free time in Phnom Penh before transferring to airport for flight to Vientiane, Laos.
Upon arrival, you will be friendly greeted by our escort guide and driver then transfer to a booked hotel in Vientiane and simply have free time after check in.
Overnight in Vientiane
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 18: Buddha Park & Vientiane City Tour
Breakfast is served at hotel. We leave hotel at 8.30am to see interesting local trades at Talat Sao market then drive with 25km for a worth visit to the impressive Buddha Park (Wat Xieng Khouane) situates along the Mekong River, the park contains more than 200 religious Hindus & Buddha images along with the notable giant reclining Buddha, the park comes with three interesting stories representing three levels: Hell, Earth and Heaven. Hear story from your tour guide while strolling around to take some nice photos of various sculptures.
Enjoy lunch at a selected local restaurant.
Afternoon, we go for city tour of Vientiane Capital, start with Wat Si Saket which is known as the oldest temple in city and wander at Wat Si Muang which admired by its attractive cultural Lao art styles. We’ll continue to unlock history of Haw Phra Kaew was built 16th century and used to house sacred Emerald Buddha. Next, we pay attention at the famous Pha That Luang which is well recognized as the significant gold covered Buddhist stupa and also the national symbol of Laos. Near the end of the trip, go for breathtaking at the garden park dotting with the remarkable Patuxai Monument – the most prominent Victory Gate in the city.
Overnight in Vientiane
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 19: Vientiane to Vang Vieng, Explore Natural Beauty of Vang Vieng
Breakfast is served at hotel. Checked out and we leave Vientiane at 7.00am to Vang Vieng – the town emerges the spectacular nature, Nam Song River, lush mountains and various caves.
After check in, we head out to explore mysterious limestone caves of Vang Vieng included the most notable Tham Xang which is a temple cave and also known as Elephant Cave, resume to visit Snail Cave followed by its long corridors and wonderful limestone formations and the last is the Water Cave where you can cool off and swim. We’ll then unpack and enjoy our picnic lunch before trekking with an hour and half to a Hmong village, passing through rice paddies and vegetable gardens.
Continue our journey by kayaking on the famous Nam Song River which it is truly admired by picturesque nature, green mountains, limestone formation and interesting local life along the river while we’re making our way back to Vang Vieng. The rest of the evening is totally reserved as free and easy for your own leisure .
Overnight in Vang Vieng
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 20: Blue Lagoon & Phu Kham Cave, Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang
Breakfast is served at hotel. We leave hotel at your convenient time in the morning to visit Blue Lagoon & Phu Kham Cave which provides a scenic ride through the countryside leads to natural lake, a turquoise pool with a tree swing, for relaxation and swim (if you want) before we observe Phu Kham Cave – a labyrinth of chambers with stalactites, stalagmites and a reclining Buddha. A steep hike and a flashlight are needed to explore the cave.
Return hotel for refreshment and check out then we drive with 5-6 hours to gorgeous Luang Prabang. Check in into a booked hotel and have your own free time.
Note: You can speak with our tour guide for a recommendation for lunch at a local restaurant on the way.
Overnight in Luang Prabang
*Meal Plan: Breakfast
Day 21: Alms Giving, Luang Prabang Tour, Buffalo Dairy & Kuang Si Waterfalls
Breakfast is served at hotel. We rise a bit early in the morning to observe Buddhist saffron monks in progress searching for alms offers from locals which it is religiously known as traditional alms giving ceremony that all tourists can’t definitely ignore when visit Luang Prabang.
Return hotel for breakfast before heading out again to stroll at Phosy market to observe bustling trades between locals and vendors. Continue to challenge 328 steps up to the top of Phousi Hill to catch the spectacular views of Luang Prabang city, Mekong & Nam Khan Rivers, forests and mountains. Afterwards, visit Royal Palace which is one of national museums in Laos that was built by French during French colonial period, see Heuan Chan Heritage – the 19th century and well reserved wooden house in Luang Prabang then we’ll wander to observe the finest artistic styles of Buddhist monasteries included Wat Sensoukharam, important Wat Xiengthong and Wat Wisunarat at the end of the trip. Have lunch at a selected local restaurant.
Afternoon, we journey passing rural Lao countryside and Hmong tribe villages then we stop for a short visit Ban Na Ouane Hmong minority village where you witness their basic living and daily activities before going for a worth visit at Buffalo Dairy that you’re gonna observe how they feed, milk buffaloes and get to know how some kinds of cheeses are produced from buffalo dairy in the region. Continue our journey to visit the fascinating Kuang Si Waterfalls where we have a walking up to wander on the top of the waterfalls, enjoy the tranquil surrounding and beautiful views. Return to the major area then spend times to observe its natural beauty with take nice photos, get refreshed and cooled off, and swim in crystal blue water pools. We’ll then visit the Black Bear Rescue Centre before returning hotel.
Overnight in Luang Prabang
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 22: Luang Prabang - Pak Ou Caves & Pakbeng
Get transferred to boat pier before the boat leaves Luang Prabang at 7:00am for upstream the Mekong River to Pakbeng.
French Breakfast is served on board.
In the morning, we will stop to visit Pak Ou Caves (Tham Ting) and its over two thousands Buddha statues. It is one of the most important Pilgrimage place for Lao people. After the visit, our English speaking guide will organize a small lecture and will explain the different ethnicities here in Laos.
Lao traditional Lunch set is served on board.
In the afternoon, quick visit at Ban Baw village, a complex but harmonic mixed of three ethnicity: Lao Loun, Shan and Tai Lue. Today the village is famous for its Laol Lao whiskey making.
The boat arrives in Pakbeng before the night.
Overnight in Pakbeng
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 23: Pakbeng - Houay Xay & Drive to Chiang Rai, Thailand
Normally your hotel in Pakbeng must have prepared a take away breakfast box for the Shompoo Cruise travelers that they can eat on board.
In the morning, our guide and cooker will make a short demonstration on how to make some Lao desserts and local drinks that travelers will eat later in the afternoon.
Just before lunch, the boat will stop to visit a traditional Kamu villag, Ban Houay Phalam, a tiny cozy place which host about 90 families. Travelers will learn about rural lifestyle in a very remote area.
Lao traditional Lunch set is served on board.
Before to reach Houay Xay pier, enjoy the homemade desserts and drinks made by our team and the travelers.
The boat will arrive at destination before 4:30pm then you should walk to the border crossing department to visa and immigration process done at both sides. Next, you come out of Chiang Khong Border Checkpoint, you will be greeted by our friendly team then transfers with 1 ½ hours to a booked hotel in Chiang Rai and have your own free time.
Overnight in Chiang Rai
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 24: Chiang Rai – Golden Triangle & Long Neck Karen
Breakfast is served at hotel. Today we leave a bit early at 7.30am for our wonderful journey to explore the most attractive destinations of Chiang Rai. We spend about an hour to visit Mae Chan admired by its fresh massive Choui Fong Tea plantation where you will learn a bit more about tea processing and enjoy the taste of real tea flavor of Chiang Rai while observing the fantastic scenery. Continue our adventure to interact diverse Akha hill tribal village and Long Neck Karen where we witness their daily life of living in exotic clothes/handicrafts while observing their interesting activities and the surrounding before heading to the well-known Mae Sai market where you wander around to grab a lovely gift for yourselves, this market is boring between Chiang Rai and Tachileik, Myanmar – the commercial place for locals and ethnic minority people come for trades and exchange their various goods.
Enjoy lunch at a selected local restaurant.
Afternoon, we drive to Golden Triangle point where the parts of Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Ruak River and Mekong River meet at the confluence, the region was largely famed for opium production and cultivation in the world. We then take a change to take Mekong River boat which pleasantly provides amazing boat ride to see the mighty Mekong River, to Don Sao Island – a part of Laos where we will wander around Don Sao market.
Note: Visiting Don Sao Island is not required visa but make sure you bring along passport with you and keep it safely with boat company and claim it back when you finished the boat ride. Or you may skip the boat ride if you want.
The best part of the trip is not to miss out Opium House Museum which gives you best interesting history about Opium plantation, production and cultivation, and there are numerous exhibits of opium artifacts as well as houses of opium collection which can tell you that the Golden Triangle is one of most impressive opium cultivation in the world. Finally, our trip ended with meaningful and we drive with 1 ½ hours back to Chiang Rai.
Overnight in Chiang Rai
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 25: Chiang Rai Tour & Drive to Chiang Mai Plus White Temple
Breakfast is served at hotel. We leave hotel at 8.00am for a worth visit at Black House temple museum which inspires traditional Northern Thai arts and architecture then continue to visit the impressive Wat Rong Suea Ten (or Blue Temple) in rare blue color, adorable carvings with its own architectural styles. We’ll then make our way for Kad Luang market to observe daily life of local people and see various Thai products from fresh tropical fruits, vegetables, meats to local street food, clothes and accessories.
Return hotel for refreshment and check out, enjoy lunch at a selected local restaurant. Then we say goodbye to beautiful Chiang Rai and drive with 2 ½ hours to Chiang Mai Province. On the way, we will pay attention to witness the well-known Wat Rong Khun (popularly known as White Temple) admired by its stunning Thai art styles and unique temple architecture where many tourists always take fabulous photos of its reflection. Continue driving, we then stop at Mae Kachan Hot spring for coffee break and wander in the area to see locals boiling eggs inside the hot spring. Check in into a booked hotel in Chiang Mai and simply have free time.
Overnight in Chiang Mai
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 26: Chiang Mai - Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, Hmong Village & 3km Trekking
Breakfast is served at hotel. We start our wonderful Chiang Mai tour at 8.30am, drive up on Doi Suthep Mountain to visit the famous golden temple of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep standing 3500 feet above the sea level and it religiously houses Buddha relics then enjoy breathtaking the panoramic view over Chiang Mai City from the summit of Doi Suthep. Resume our journey to Black Hmong Village locates at the hillside, observe daily life of Hmong villagers admired by their interesting routine activities.
Lunch is provided at a local restaurant.
After lunch break, we continue driving down the hill for a pleasant trekking with 3km through jungle trails up and down towards the fascinating and less touristy Monthatan waterfalls hidden among the dense forest in Chiang Mai. Unwind and emerge yourselves with the stunning surrounding, get refreshed and enjoy swimming before heading back to the hotel in the evening.
Overnight in Chiang Mai
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 27: Chiang Mai – Full Day Elephant Nature Park
Breakfast is served at hotel. Be ready with your small light pack for pickup at 7.40am arranged by Elephant Nature Park. Enjoy a full day visit to Elephant Nature Park; a natural home and sanctuary for elephants, buffaloes, dogs, cats, birds and many other rescued animals. Your visit starts with a picturesque drive through rural countryside. You will hear the personal stories of rescued and orphaned elephants and see how they became a proud herd and free from abuse for the first time in their lives. Many find their visit to Elephant Nature Park rewarding and very relaxing. Observe free roaming elephants (no riding) and other rescued animals enjoying the natural surroundings of our sanctuary. Your visit helps support our regional projects and offers an invaluable opportunity of helping elephant conservation. We finish the tour and returning Chiang Mai between 5:00pm – 5:30pm.
What to Bring: Hat, Sunscreen, Sandals/Flip Flops, Shoes for walking, Camera, Bug Repellent, Refillable Water Bottle. (Rain Jacket – Rainy Season April – October).
Overnight in Chiang Mai
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Vegetarian buffet lunch
Day 28: Chiang Mai - Flight to Phuket
Breakfast is served at hotel. Enjoy the rest of free time in Chiang Mai before our team picks you up and transfers to airport for domestic flight to Phuket.
Phuket is a popular tourist destination in Thailand, known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture and nightlife. It is the largest island in the country, with a mountainous terrain and a tropical climate. It widely offers a variety of activities for visitors, such as snorkeling, diving, surfing, hiking, golfing and shopping while a vibrant culinary scene and local specialties are enjoyably delicate.
Upon your arrival, your will be friendly greeted by our team and transfers to a booked hotel for check in. It’s totally reserved as free and easy for your own leisure or go out to catch the highlight of Phuket City.
Overnight in Phuket
*Meal Plan: Breakfast
Day 29: Phuket - Completely Free & Easy
Breakfast is served at hotel. This day is reserved as free & easy for your self-directed exploration. One of the 10 most beautiful islands in the world, Phuket has an amazing wide range of beach, fine white sand and jade-green sea water, and water sports of many varieties never fail to win over enthusiasts.
Overnight in Phuket
*Meal Plan: Breakfast
Day 30: Phuket - Phang Nga Bay & James Bond Island
Breakfast is served at hotel. Today you will be picked up by shuttle bus between 08.00 – 09.20 AM so make sure you’re ready by 8.00am at hotel’s lobby for a wonderful day trip by speed boat to discover some of fascinating Phuket’s islands especially Koh Tapu Island which is well known as Jame Bond Island where the famous “The Man With Golden Gun” movie was filmed, wander around mystical caves, see impressive limestone formations and enjoy canoeing on the crystal water, swimming and relaxing on the beaches. Around 5.00pm, we will head back to the mainland and get transferred by shuttle bus back to hotel.
This trip included: local tour guide, canoe & paddle man, lunch, soft drinks, ea, coffee, juice, snack, fresh fruits, pick up and drop off.
*Note: You can consider to leave this day as free and easy for yourselves leisure if you don’t want to go on the island trip.
Overnight in Phuket
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 31: Phuket - Flight to Bangkok
Breakfast is served at hotel. Enjoy the rest of your own free time in Phuket before our team transfers you to airport for flight to Bangkok Capital.
Upon arrival, our friendly team (guide and driver) will welcome you at the arrival gate then transfers to a booked hotel for check in and simply have yourselves free time at hotel or explore central city by your own.
Overnight in Bangkok
*Meal Plan: Breakfast
Day 32: Floating Market, Death Railway & Bridge on The River Kwai
Breakfast is served at hotel. Today we leave a bit early for our remote adventure at 7.00am to Ratchaburi which popularly emerges the must-see Damnoen Saduak Floating Market where we will process to take a rowing boat to see the bustling activities along rivers and canals, colorful fruits, flowers, vegetables, snacks and other various items on local boats in this famous floating market in Thailand. Lunch is provided at a selected local restaurant.
Continue our journey to Kanchanaburi whose the well-known Death Railway is located and it dates back to World War II, we spend our worth visit to War Cemetery and JEATH war museum that displays the remnants left from the war including photography, artifacts, documents, equipment and so on. After unlocking the horrific war history, we enjoy the walking on the black iron bridge over the remarkable River Kwai where you can take a good breathtaking and take nice photos before we make our way back to Bangkok.
Overnight in Bangkok
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 33: Best Bangkok City Tour
Breakfast is served at hotel. Today we begin at 8.00am for the amazing day to explore significant tourist attraction in central Bangkok City, visit Wat Traimit which houses the largest Golden Buddha statue in the world and catch the highlights of bustling China and Indian towns animated by interesting daily activities or you can stop by for a short visit when we drive pass to observe the Temple of the reclining Buddha in Wat Pho. Continue for a guided strolling at The Grand Palace which is popularly known as “The City Landmark” admired by the most impressive Emerald Buddha and other building complex that features unique architectural designs and cultural arts. Enjoy delicious Thai lunch at a selected local restaurant.
Afternoon, enjoy a long-tail boat excursion across Chao Phraya River to pay attention at the remarkable Wat Arun which means Temple of Dawn which dates back to Ayutthaya Kingdom and take beautiful photos of Bangkok Skylines. Resume our exciting journey on boat through small canals of Thonburi to see Bangkok’s real local lives, wooden houses on the water, temples and other interesting things along the canals before we make our way back to the hotel.
Overnight in Bangkok
*Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 34: Bangkok - Departure
International flight is NOT included in the tour price.
Breakfast is served at hotel. Enjoy the rest of free time in Thailand then our team will pick you up from hotel’s lobby and transfers to Suvarnabhumi International Airport for your flight to the next destination.
*Meal Plan: Breakfast
Thank You
Goodbye Beautiful Southeast Asia
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