Classic Southeast Asia
Example Itinerary
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Overview
Imagine a land of lush rainforests and golden beaches, where bustling markets and grand palaces share the landscape with dazzling coral reefs and ancient temples shrouded in thick jungle. Imagine being able to spend your days cruising through floating markets and wandering amongst the timeless remains of lost civilisations. Imagine no more! This stunning introduction to Southeast Asia takes in some of the most iconic locations anywhere on the continent, beginning amongst the captivating canals ...
Imagine a land of lush rainforests and golden beaches, where bustling markets and grand palaces share the landscape with dazzling coral reefs and ancient temples shrouded in thick jungle. Imagine being able to spend your days cruising through floating markets and wandering amongst the timeless remains of lost civilisations. Imagine no more! This stunning introduction to Southeast Asia takes in some of the most iconic locations anywhere on the continent, beginning amongst the captivating canals and backstreets of Bangkok. You’ll explore the city by boat, tuk tuk and Skytrain, visiting floating markets and mangrove forests, before flying north to Chiang Mai. Spend some time at an elephant sanctuary and discover the famous Golden Triangle, where you can see the borders of Burma, Thailand and Laos all come together. From here you cruise over the border into Laos and follow the Mekong river to Luang Prabang. Enjoy hikes through mountainous landscapes and experience traditional ceremonies with the locals, before heading for the spectacular Cambodian temples of Angkor, an adventure topped off with stunning sunrises and local nights out.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
- Watch the sunrise over Angkor Wat and lose yourself amongst the temples of Siem Reap
- Enjoy the cultural and culinary delights of Bangkok, Luang Prabang and Siem Reap
- Travel by boat from Thailand to Laos and cruise through the idyllic landscapes of the Mekong
- Get off the beaten track as you explore by foot, bicycle, boat and rickshaw
- Enjoy sunrises with monks and afternoons with elephants around Chiang Mai
- Visit the famous Golden Triangle where you can see the borders of Burma, Thailand and Laos all come together
How Tailor-Made Works
Discuss your initial ideas with one of our experts, the types of things you want to see and do.
Your expert will start designing your perfect trip. Within a day or two we'll send a suggested itinerary.
At this stage you can still tweak anything from accommodation to experiences and dates, using our expert advice.
Time to prepare for your trip, safe in the knowledge you'll be in the expert hands of local guides and drivers throughout.
Relax and enjoy...through our partners you'll have support on the ground as well as 24-hour emergency assistance in the UK.
Example Itinerary
This is an example itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes and budget, or build a trip from scratch.
Day 1 ARRIVE BANGKOK
Arrive into Bangkok where you will be met by a Wild Frontiers representative and taken to your hotel.
Day 2 BANGKOK: PUBLIC TRANSPORT TOUR
Today you will set off on your city tour, travelling by river express boat, tuk tuk, canal boat and the exciting Skytrain which offers an elevated view of central Bangkok. Enjoy the sights and smells of Pak Klong Market, visit Wat Pho, the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, and cruise around the famous klongs, or canals, of the Chao Phraya River, enjoying the eclectic mix of this fascinating city.
Day 3 BANGKOK: MARKETS AND MANGROVES
Today you will head to Amphawa Floating market where you will explore by long tail boat. Unlike Bangkok’s well-known Damnoen Saduak floating market, few foreigners visit Amphawa, which is frequented almost exclusively by Thais. Locals congregate to buy and sell everything from cooking pots to fresh flowers to wind-up toys, and here you can enjoy some of the most delicious meals cooked right from the boats. From here it’s then time for mangrove planting, monkey spotting and water (mud) skiing as you explore the Mangrove Forest Conservation Centre.
Day 4 BANGKOK – CHIANG MAI
This morning you will be transferred to the airport for you onward flight to Chiang Mai. On arrival drive up to visit Doi Suthep, the most important Wat in Chiang Mai, and enjoy the wonderful views of the city and countryside below. Continue west to Wat Suan Dok, a stunning location from which you can enjoy the sunset and witness evening prayer as the monks and local people come together at the end of the day.
Day 5 CHIANG MAI: ELEPHANTS
Today you will visit Elephant Nature Park, a wonderful organization dedicated to conserving and promoting the well-being of elephants. You will have an opportunity to feed and walk the elephants through the dense mountain forests, witnessing their natural behaviours and a sense of freedom, as well as helping to renew the elephant's habitat by planting trees in the forest.
Day 6 CHIANG MAI - CHIANG RAI
Today you will journey to the neighbouring town of Chiang Rai. Travelling via Wiang Pa Pao, we will stop for lunch at Cabbages and Condoms, a delicious restaurant helping to promote safe sex in Thailand. After lunch take some time to visit the Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) before continuing towards Chiang Rai.
Day 7 CHIANG RAI: GOLDEN TRIANGLE
Today you will cross the Mae Sa Border into Burma and take a rickshaw ride through the local village, visiting the local market. Return to Thailand for lunch and in the afternoon visit the Queens Opium Museum, a fascinating look at the history and culture of the opium trade in the Golden Triangle before heading to the famous Golden Triangle where you can see the borders of Burma, Thailand and Laos all come together.
Day 8 CHIANG RAI - PAKBENG (LUANG SAY CRUISE)
This morning you will say goodbye to Thailand and continue your exciting journey, this time by boat, as you cruise along the Mekong into the heart of Laos. Boarding the beautiful Luang Say cruise boat, you can sit back and relax as you drift down the river admiring the countryside and stopping along the way to visit local villages and learn more about life along the Mekong. Late afternoon you will arrive at the delightful Luang Say Lodge where you will stay for the evening.
Day 9 PAKBENG - LUANG PRABANG (LUANG SAY CRUISE)
After breakfast stroll through nearby Pakbeng before joining the Luang Say again to continue downstream to Luang Prabang. Stop along the way to visit more villages and the famous Pak Ou Caves, before arriving in Luang Prabang just before sunset.
Day 10 LUANG PRABANG BY BICYCLE
Wake up at sunrise to give monks morning alms, before setting off to explore the city by bicycle. Get off the beaten path as you cycle down alleys and side-streets, stopping at temples and highlights along the way and soaking up the stunning Mekong views.
Day 11 LUANG PRABANG: WATERFALLS AND TRADITIONS
Passing through Hmong and Khmu villages, today you’ll hike through stunning farming fields and mountain scenery to the Kuang Si Waterfall. After working up your appetite, enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch by the cascading falls. Afterwards, take a well-deserved swim or challenge yourself with a climb up the other side of the waterfall. Finally, visit the Kuang Si Butterfly Park and the Free the Bears Projects to learn about these local organizations plight to educate on and protect native species. End the day by joining one of your village hosts in their home for a Lao baci ceremony, a traditional blessing ceremony where you receive well wishes from elders in the village.
Day 12 LUANG PRABANG - SIEM REAP
Say goodbye to beautiful Laos today as you catch your flight to the Kingdom of Wonder - Cambodia. On arrival you will be helped through immigration before transferring to your hotel. This evening you will discover the best of the best of fine dining in Cambodia from kitchens led by the country’s top chefs.
Day 13 SIEM REAP: TEMPLES SUNRISE TO SUNSET
Wake up early and head to Angkor Wat for sunrise and a morning tour of the temple before the crowds arrive. Mid-morning head back to your hotel for breakfast before relaxing in the garden, by the pool, or in your own room through the heat of the day. In the early afternoon head back out to the temples and see the marvellous city of Angkor Thom. Explore Banteay Kdei and Ta Prohm as the sun sets, making the temples glow.
Day 14 SIEM REAP: TEMPLES AND LOCAL NIGHT OUT
Leaving the crowds behind you will head to Beng Mealea, one of Angkor's more mysterious temples located 40km outside of the main temple complex. From here continue on to Banteay Srei, an intricately carved temple known as the Lady Temple, and have lunch at a nearby local restaurant, before enjoying some time at leisure. Early evening head out in a tuk-tuk for a taste of local nightlife as your guide takes you to a local hotspot where you can meet with young Cambodians and enjoy some great street food.
Day 15 SIEM REAP - BANGKOK DEPART
You will be transferred to the airport in time for your onward flight to Bangkok where your tour will end.
EXAMPLE ACCOMMODATION
Luang Say Lodge, Pakbeng
The Luang Say Lodge sits majestically above the Mekong River, blending artfully into the natural environment through careful landscaping, raised platforms and indigenous styling. It features 17 large pavilions connected by wooden walkways, each elegantly furnished in dark toned wood and white fabrics, and offering stunning views on three sides of the Mekong and the mountains beyond. The lodge's riverbank restaurant serves wonderful organic food in a fabulous setting.
The Meridian Chiang Rai Resort, Chiang Rai
The Meridien Resort Chiang Rai is situated along the Mae Kok River, close to the town of Chiang Rai, the former capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom founded by King Meng Rai. Newly opened, The resort features a blend of activities, including therapeutic treatments at the spa, refreshing swims in the pool, and hearty workouts in the gym. Outdoors, guests can embark on hill tribe visits, elephant trekking, and river tours. The resort comprises 159 modern rooms and suites in five wings. Views from the balconies overlook a private lake, lush lawns, and the Mae Kok River. An international hotel, it offers a high standard of service, large well equipted room and great facilities.
Riva Surya Hotel Bangkok, Bangkok
The modern Riva Surya Bangkok is set on the banks of the Chao Phraya River surrounded by many of the city's top heritage sites, making it an ideal base from which to explore this exciting city. Many rooms offer river views and each is beautifully designed with contemporary bathrooms and Thai furnishings. The indoor/outdoor Babble and Rum restaurant and adjacent pool area offer guests an escape from the busy Phra Arthit Road located just outside, while the breezy deck of the Mezzanine Bar is the ideal spot from which to enjoy sunset cocktails. With a good selection of rooms and facilities the Riva Surya is a convenient base for visitors seeking a central location and comfortable stay.
Jaya House River Park, Siem Reap
Enjoying a tranquil setting along the banks of the Siem Reap River, Jaya House River Park is hidden amongst spacious gardens just a short distance from the town centre. By far one of our firm favourites in Cambodia, this property is an equal opportunity employer and one of our most philanthropic partners, having created a plastic-free property and strong dedication to local charities focused on supporting the environment, skill development and education. With two pools, a spa and the opportunity for all-day dining, its 36 beautifully-appointed rooms and suites offer up a choice of balconies or direct access to the pool and garden. Peacefully located away from the bustle of downtown Siem Reap, the hotel is decorated throughout with charming Khmer art-deco inspired touches, whilst its calming spa utilises the traditions of ancient Khmer and South-East Asian treatments. The hotel’s wonderful Trorkuon Restaurant also serves up a variety of local and classical western dishes that are healthy and vegan friendly. Make sure to grab one of their delicious cocktails up in the Sky Bar where you can enjoy stunning sunset views overlooking the river.
Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort, Chiang Mai
The Na Nirand is a charming, romantic getaway nestled in the heart of Chiang Mai. The area is historically important as the first Royal Forestry Department was created here, preserving the forest from the influence from the west at the time of King Rama V, in the 19th century. It is thought that the first conservator of the forest planted the 100-year-old tree that towers over Na Nirand. There is also a legend associated with the area. The design of the hotel transports guests to the period when colonial and Lanna architecture were combined. The vintage decorations and traditional crafts within each room are used to display the local craftsmen's skills and provide extra income. The pool is beautiful and surrounded by indigenous trees, perfectly reflected in the water as you sip on a drink from the pool bar. In the evenings, explore Thai Lanna history in the Huan Kammung library after enjoying a delectable meal at the Riverfront Cuisine & Bar beside the Ping River.
Avani+ Luang Prabang Hotel, Luang Prabang
A wonderful escape from the bustle of town, the Avani+ is conveniently located opposite the night market and nearby the Mekong River. The minimalist design and wooden interiors create an airy and peaceful atmosphere. Many of the rooms, some feature a private balcony, look out onto the outdoor pool and gardens. Breakfast is served in a beautiful renovated building and offers both buffet and a la carte. The hotel has a beautiful spa and small fitness room.
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Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
MEALS
TRANSPORT
ENTRANCE FEES
EXPERT TEAM
ACCOMMODATION
WILD MILES
ACCOMMODATION
Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
Positive Impact of this Trip
Making a Difference
Community Tourism
People and local communities have always been at the heart of Wild Frontiers and the travel experiences we offer. Through community tourism we have the opportunity to generate real positive impact, supporting people we visit through sustainable local development, and in turn help to alleviate poverty and protect culture and environments in often more vulnerable destinations. While doing so, our clients gain richer travel experiences and more meaningful connections with the people they meet.
Conservation and Climate Action
As a travel company, we hold a responsibility to minimise our environmental footprint and contribute to sustainability, and work closely with local communities to support their efforts. By implementing initiatives such as carbon measuring, tree-planting, reducing single-use plastic and promoting eco-friendly practices, we can help mitigate the negative impacts of tourism on fragile ecosystems and local communities. Additionally, prioritising conservation efforts helps preserve natural habitats and wildlife, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the wonders of our planet.
Wild Frontiers Foundation
The Wild Frontiers Foundation aims to provide a platform to create awareness, raise money and deliver funding to projects in countries where we operate as a travel company. Through the foundation, we are able to channel money into grass roots projects, which we have either established ourselves or support through charity partners. These include initiatives focused around education, the empowerment of local people and community conservation.
START PLANNING YOUR TRIP
Our team of experts have a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you plan your adventure of a lifetime.
WHY WILD FRONTIERS?
Expert travel consultants
Up-to-date knowledge and advice from our experienced consultants on the best places to stay, things to do and regions to visit to make your holiday the trip of a lifetime.
EXPERIENCED LOCAL GUIDES
We use experienced local guides to help bring the sights to life, introduce you to local characters and ensure you get under the skin of your destination.
HAND-PICKED ACCOMMODATION
Whether you are looking for a boutique hotel, homestay, local guesthouse, luxury spa, tented camp or heritage hotel, our experts can select the perfect property for you.
24-HOUR SUPPORT
Our local agents are there to help you on the ground should you need any assistance, and in addition you will be given a 24-hour UK emergency phone number.OTHER ITINERARIES IN CAMBODIA
Check out our group tours in Cambodia
As well as private tailor-made trips, we also offer small group tours (max size 12) to Cambodia. Led by an experienced tour leader, travel with a group of like-minded people on one of our award-winning group tours.
View Group Tours in Cambodia