Best of Burma Itinerary

Nestled in the shadow of the gold-encrusted Shwedagon Paya is Yangon, a melting pot of Burmese culture and colonialism. Visit this impressive holy site and be dazzled by its riches - both physical and spiritual.

Fly to Bagan and get the first taste of Burma’s crowning glory at sunset. Exploring this phenomenal area - spanning some 42 sq km and comprising of thousands of brick and gold-gilded stupas - is a remarkable experience. While here, perhaps take an optional hot air balloon ride at sunrise.

Set sail on a riverboat cruise along the Ayeyarwaddy River. Soak up the serenity of life on the water and admire local villages and an ever-changing landscape as it rolls by. And, for a really authentic experience, sleep on deck under a canopy of stars.

Meet some friendly locals on an energising morning walk before moseying on down the river. Spot fisherman hauling in their catch on the water’s edge before arriving in Mandalay by late afternoon. Known as Burma’s ‘Jewel City’, join a local guide for a sunset tour of Mandalay Hill. Perhaps take the river express to the sacred site of Mingun, take in a show at Mandalay Marionettes or visit Mahamuni Paya, resplendent in a layer of gold leaf.

Continue on via the world’s longest teak bridge to Kalaw. Relish the temperate climate and stunning scenery of this mountain hideaway. Rise early and embark on a trek through rarely visited alpine villages, meeting locals who live simply as they have done for centuries.

Make tracks through the mountains to Pindaya. Explore the labyrinth of caves here with a local guide, admiring over 8,000 images of Buddha contained inside. Continue onwards to Inle Lake and spend time visiting the floating markets, cycling around the lake and admiring the skills of local ‘leg rowers’.

Leave scenic Shan State behind and travel back to Yangon. Explore more of this surprising city before this Best of Burma trip wraps up over a final group dinner.