1. Home
  2. Asia
  3. Vietnam
  4. Epic South East Asia

Dive into South East Asia on this epic journey.

Wanna head to South East Asia but can’t quite decide on exactly where to go? Quit it with the quandaries, we’ll make your dreams come true (except that one where you get a pet dugong) on this 34-day trip. Think of this trip as the most delicious-and-exciting degustation of your life. A little bit of Bangkok here, a pinch of Luang Prabang there, some Vang Vieng caves, Hue food and Angkor Wat, plus a whole lotta good times in between. Buckle up because this is gonna be a real adventure.

This trip is for 18 to 29-year-olds

Some of our under-30 travellers prefer to get around with people their own age. If that’s you, you’re in the right place!

Over 29? We’ve got over 900 other great adventures to choose from for solo travellers, friends, families, food lovers, hiking enthusiasts, and more.

Start
Bangkok, Thailand
Finish
Bangkok, Thailand
Destinations
Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Vietnam
Style
Basix
Theme
18 to 29s
Code
TTYAC
Physical rating
Ages
Min 18, Max 29
Group size
Min 1, Max 16

Travel solo, together

You're never alone when travelling solo with Intrepid

Why you'll love this trip

  • Laos means laaaid-back. It's one of the most chilled-out countries going around

  • Two days of cruising down the Mekong River in a traditional-style boat is one of South East Asia's classic trips, with more photo-ops than you can shake a bamboo cane at

  • Who'd have thought green seas and giant mossy rocks could be so pretty? Cruising on Lan Ha Bay is bliss

  • Is Angkor the most incredible place in South East Asia? Decide for yourself as you temple-hop with an expert local guide

  • A homestay in Chambok puts you right in the heart of everyday village life in Cambodia

  • Cut loose in Bangkok, a frenetic wonderland of delicious street food and tuk-tuks, and the ideal launching pad for further travel in Thailand

Is this trip right for you?

  • A 34-day trip with a lot of public transport might feel a little taxing now and then. There are some long stretches of travel involved, so be prepared for some bumpy roads (and occasional delays). It's all part of the adventure!

  • We cover a lot of distance on this trip, including on overnight trains. Accommodation and amenities are shared and basic, but the experience of rubbing shoulders with the locals makes it all worthwhile. For more about what this experience is like, see our blog post here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/what-to-expect-on-an-overnight.

  • If you're prone to motion sickness, some over-the-counter medication is a good idea for some of the windy drives (such as from Hue to Hoi An, and Luang Prabang to Vientiane via Vang Vieng).

  • In the larger cities, roads can be hectic and intimidating to cross, especially in Vietnam. Never fear – your leader will show you how to do it like a local in Hanoi's Old Quarter.

  • Accommodation is basic – a combination of simple hotels, guesthouses and homestays.

  • You'll be spending a night with a local family on this trip. While the accommodation is shared and basic, this is a great opportunity to connect with the local people (and enjoy delicious home-cooked meals!). Read more about the experience here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/cambodia-homestay-experience

  • This trip is for travellers who appreciate a bit of independence. You'll get plenty of free time in each location to make your own choices and do your own activities. Your leader is always there to give you tips and suggestions.

Map of Epic South East Asia including Cambodia, Lao Pdr, Thailand and Vietnam
Travel group at Angkor Wat Temple, Cambodia
Cambodia monk
Thailand elephant God
Thailand Tuk Tuk
Cambodian temple Angkor Wat
gteac_vietnam_group_cheers_beers_ho-chi-minh-city
gteac_vietnam_mekong-river_canoe_smiling-pax
Walking through the Citadel in Hue, Vietnam

Itinerary
Expand All Collapse All

Sawasdee! Welcome to Bangkok. Arrive in this bustling hub and get to grips with this awesome city. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early perhaps take a walk around Chinatown and explore the crowded streets, or head to the magnificent Grand Palace. As one of the world’s largest marketplaces, Chatuchak Market is also a great place to practise your haggling and pick up some bargains.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Bangkok - Bangkok Temple & River of Kings Urban Adventure - THB2465
  • Bangkok - Bangkok Tuk Tuk Experience Urban Adventure - THB2175
  • Bangkok - Bangkok by Bike Urban Adventure - THB1980
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place. If you can't arrange a flight that will arrive in time, you may wish to arrive a day early so you're able to attend. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

Today, explore some of Bangkok's oldest neighbourhoods on a walking tour with your leader. Begin after breakfast and head to Wat Tri Mit temple – the site of the world’s largest solid gold seated Buddha from the Sukhothai era, measuring nearly 5 metres tall and weighing 5.5 tonnes. Here you will learn about the history behind the Buddha, as well as visit the Chinatown Heritage Museum. Along the way, you’ll be able to stop by some food stalls on Sukorn Alley for some snacks. Onto the Odien Circle intersection and the Chinese Temple and finishing with a walk through the bustling daytime Sampeng wholesales market. You’ll have an included lunch at the famous Labour Egg Noodle (or similar), so tuck into some Fish Ball Noodles or Tom Yam Pork Noodles – they’re to die for. Finish in the Chinatown area and the rest of the day is yours to do what you like: shop and haggle for bargains or check out Chinatown. Head north to Chiang Mai in the evening on an overnight train (approximately 13 hours), sleeping in an air-conditioned berth.
Accommodation
  • Overnight sleeper train (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Bangkok - Chinatown walking tour
Optional Activities
  • Bangkok - Thai Massage - THB250
  • Bangkok - Jim Thompson's House - THB150
  • Bangkok - Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) - THB50
  • Bangkok - Grand Palace - THB500
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
Special Information
Multi-share compartments are air conditioned and have bunk beds with sheets and a pillow provided. Your baggage travels in the carriage with you. There's also a food and drink service available on board (they don't let you go thirsty here).

Arrive in Chiang Mai in the morning. The day is yours – see how many (or how little) activities you want to pack into your stay. You will be staying in a centrally located Hostel in Chiang Mai so you will be close to all the action. There are over 120 temples in the city centre alone. You can set off on an excursion to the top of Doi Suthep. There are a few hundred steps to climb, but the views are well worth it. Maybe treat yourself to a traditional Thai massage, or even partake in a cooking class so you can impress your friends in the kitchen when you get home. The night bazaar is a great chance to practice those ever-important bargaining skills. Your group leader will also be available to take you and the gang on a bar hopping adventure around town. The Nimman area is where it’s at – a trendy neighbourhood full of jazz bars and lounges to relax in and grab a few drinks.
Accommodation
  • Hostel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Chiang Mai - Doi Suthep temple complex - THB50
  • Chaing Mai - Baan Thai Cookery School Half Day Course - THB800
  • Chiang Mai - Thai massage - THB200
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
Your centrally located Hostel in Chiang Mai will have shared bathrooms, ommunal areas to relax and chill out and up to 8 bed dorm rooms. Private locakers are provided.

Another day, another chance to get your fill of Chiang Mai. In the morning, you’ll have the chance to learn one of the legendary martial arts, Muay Thai (Thai Boxing). Spend around 2 hours exercising and learning the basics with professional trainers. You’ll be shown how to adapt yourself to be the ‘weapon’ and to guard. Seriously cool. Then, the rest of the afternoon is yours. To really get the blood pumping, perhaps head to the Jungle Flight and negotiate the zipline and canopy course within the treetops.
Accommodation
  • Hostel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Chiang Mai - Muay Thai Class (Thai boxing)
Optional Activities
  • Chiang Mai - Bicycle tour - THB990
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Have you realised how thai-riffic Chiang Mai is? Well, you’ve got another day to explore. You might like to take part in one of our Urban Adventures, such as the 'Mind and Soul' or 'Mae Ping River Experience' day tours. For more info, go and visit urbanadventures.com/destination/chiang-mai-tours. You could also visit a great elephant sanctuary at Elephant Nature Park, where you can learn all about these gentle giants. Otherwise, go visit one of the temples you haven’t made it to yet, or head into town and grab a bowl of khao soi (crunchy and soft noodles in a creamy coconut curry broth). If you want some more ideas, go ahead and ask your group leader – they know the best spots to go.
Accommodation
  • Hostel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • DISCONTINUED Chiangmai Cultural and Mindfulness - THB1530
  • DISCONTINUED Chiang Mai - Mae Ping River Experience Urban Adventure - THB2174
  • Chiang Mai - Elephant Nature Park Half Day Trip - THB1900
  • DISCONTINUED Chiang Mai - Made In Chiangmai Artisan Village and Handicraft Urban Adventure - THB1526
  • DISCONTINUED Chiang Mai - Taste of Chiang Mai Urban Adventure - THB1812
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Take a public bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Khong via Chiang Rai (approximately 6.5 hours). Explore this quiet town that sits on the Thai side of the Thailand-Laos border. Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Luang are both beautifully ornate temples well worth a visit while you are here. Perhaps rent a bicycle to explore the surrounding countryside and Hmong villages along the banks of the Mekong. Live like the locals with accommodation tonight being a basic guesthouse with all the creature comforts you’ll need.
Accommodation
  • Guesthouse (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

This morning you will complete border formalities at Huay Xai before boarding a slow boat for a calming trip down the Mekong River (approximately 7 hours). This is where the real relaxation starts, as you ease into Laos. Read a book, play cards, swap travel stories or just watch the amazing scenery pass by. Arrive in Pakbeng late in the afternoon and have a wander around this colourful village. This place is at the junction of the Mekong and Beng rivers. Quick note: 'nam' means river, so if you say 'Nam Beng River', you're saying river too many times (just like we have).
Accommodation
  • Guesthouse (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Mekong River - 2 day boat cruise
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Get back on your private boat, stopping to stretch your legs and explore the Pak Ou Caves, which contain hundreds of Buddha statues. Arrive in Luang Prabang in the evening and wander the streets of ‘the best-preserved city in South East Asia’ (it's the local government that started using this phrase, but it has caught on for a reason). Get a load of those French villas. And that sunset over the Mekong – damn. Tonight, something special is planned for you. Think Korean BBQ, but Laotian style. ‘Sindad’ is the art of grilling meat on a hot pan, a type of traditional BBQ set on a charcoal stove and has a surrounding rim full of boiling water for blanching vegetables. Veggies on the outside, meat cooking in the middle. It’s a hands-on experience, barbecuing all different types of meat cut into bite-sized pieces, and dunking them in some seriously addictive spicy, salty and sweet dipping sauces. Your group leader will take you to one of the best all-you-can-eat places in Luang Prabang, where you may be treated to some live music or a show while you’re cooking.
Accommodation
  • Guesthouse (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Luang Prabang - Pak Ou Caves
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

It’s worth getting up early morning to view the procession of saffron-robed monks on their daily outing collecting alms, a practice that dates back centuries. The people of the town wait out the front of their houses with food for the monks to collect and take back to the temple. It is done early, as the monks cannot eat anything after midday. By giving food to a monk you ‘het bon’ or make merit, which should augur well for your next life. Your leader will guide you through the do’s and don’ts and help you to take part in this alms giving tradition. Next take tuk tuks to visit Wat Xieng Thong. This temple was built in the 16th century under the patronage of the royal family, and the Laotian kings were crowned here. The main viharn (assembly hall) and buildings have carved gilded wooden doors depicting scenes from Buddha's life. Afterwards, enjoy some free time for optional activities! A trip to Kuang Si Falls is highly recommended if you feel like a swim in nature (and when you see these waterfalls, you probably will). Otherwise, take a rest. Find a herbal steam room or maybe play some pentanque with the locals (it's a bit like bocce). Don’t expect them to go easy on you.
Accommodation
  • Guesthouse (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Luang Prabang - Alms giving ceremony
  • Luang Prabang - orientation walk
  • Luang Prabang - Wat Xieng Thong
Optional Activities
  • Luang Prabang - Kuang Si Waterfalls - USD2
  • Luang Prabang - Laos Red Cross sauna - LAK10000
  • Luang Prabang - Lao Red Cross massage - LAK40000
  • Luang Prabang - Mt Phu Si - USD2
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Today you can do whatever you choose. Whether it's cruising around town or heading to those waterfalls that even an Instagram filter couldn't make more pretty, this is another day in the middle of Laos. By now you may have discovered the delicious (and amazingly inexpensive) night market food, which is always a great excuse to mingle with locals and dine with other travellers. For lunch, before the market opens, you might want to try some delicious noodle soup at one of the top-notch French cafes along the main drag. If you feel like learning, drop into the Traditional Arts & Ethnology Centre.
Accommodation
  • Guesthouse (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Luang Prabang - Traditional Arts & Ethnology Centre - USD2
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Transfer in a private minivan to the village of Vang Vieng (approximately 6–7 hours). This beautifully located adventure gateway lies on a bend in the Nam Song (that's a river, remember). Take in the views of mountains, rivers and big limestone cliffs that are so close you'll feel like you could reach out and touch them. Cross the river and explore the huge caves that line the West Bank. There will be plenty of time to make your own discoveries.
Accommodation
  • Guesthouse (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
The mountain scenery on the way to Vang Vieng is spectacular, but the roads are very winding. Travel medication may be a good idea if you're prone to motion sickness.

This morning, take a leader-led walking tour around Vang Vieng on your way to Tham Jung and the caves. It’s about 147 steps to the upper caves system (yes, we’ve counted). Spend your morning checking out the caves and maybe stop by the crystal-clear lagoon for a swim! Up top, you can see a great view of Vang Vieng, and there’s also a lot of Buddha iconography around to take a look at. Take some free time in the afternoon to spend as you wish – there’s some beautiful countryside around, so maybe hire a bike or kayak down the Mekong River to take it all in.
Accommodation
  • Guesthouse (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Vang Vieng - Tham Jung Cave
Optional Activities
  • Vang Vieng - Kayaking - USD12
  • Vang Vieng - Bicycle hire - USD2
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Finish up in Laos’ classy capital of Vientiane by catching a public bus from Vang Vieng (about 5 hours). Swap your instant coffee for a latte and white rice for a baguette before snapping a few pics at Wat Sri Saket – the oldest temple still standing in Vientiane, and home to almost 7000 Buddha images. Your tour leader will show you around this chic, French-influenced city, and take you to COPE – an organisation dedicated to assisting those who have been injured or affected by the shocking number of unexploded ordnances (UXOs) in the countryside. UXOs are explosive weapons, such as bombs and grenades that still pose a risk after they were used. About 30% of Laos remains contaminated with UXOs from the Vietnam War and pose a serious risk to residents. COPE provides prosthetics and other assistance to people affected by this devastating war history still present around the country. Grab some dinner with your travel mates tonight, and explore what Vientiane has to offer on Quai Fa Ngum Road.
Accommodation
  • Guesthouse (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Vientiane - Wat Si Saket
  • Vientiane - Leader orientation walk
  • Vientiane - COPE visit
Optional Activities
  • Vientiane - That Luang - USD1
  • Vientiane - Laos National Museum - LAK10000
  • Vientiane - Aerobic class - LAK3000
  • Vientiane - Pratu Xai - USD1
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Say goodbye to Laos and hello (xin chao!) to Vietnam. Fly into Hanoi, please note you will be unescorted on this flight and you will be met by an Intrepid representative to take you to your hotel in Hanoi. As this is a combination trip, your leader and the composition of your group may change at this location. There will be a group meeting in the evening to discuss the next stage of your itinerary and you're welcome to attend, as this is a great chance to meet your new travel buddies.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Hanoi - Citadels, Karsts & Cycle Urban Adventure - USD79
  • Hanoi - Village Discovery by Bike Urban Adventure - USD36
  • Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh Complex: Ho Chi Minh, Stilt House and Museum - VND80000
  • Hanoi - Temple of Literature - VND30000
  • Hanoi - Hanoi Highlights Urban Adventure - USD39
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Travel by bus and ferry (approximately 3.5 hours) to Cat Ba Island, the largest island in the UNESCO-listed Halong Bay. With thousands of little limestone islands scattered around, this area is one of those quintessential Vietnamese scenes in which bright green water is dotted with traditional junk boats and limestone karsts. Take a cruise around Lan Ha Bay with a super cool rice paper roll workshop on the boat, then get up close and personal with this other-worldly landscape by kayak. The best thing about cruising by kayak is that you can help out the environment on your way. You can choose to have a net beside your boat to catch any plastic you may come by, and later on, take part in a plastic brick making activity. Stay overnight on Cat Ba Island and enjoy a dip at one of the beaches and a cold beer.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Cat Ba Island - Boat trip on Lan Ha Bay
  • Cat Ba Island - Kayaking
  • Cat Ba Island - Rice paper roll class
Meals Included
  • Lunch

Wake up to the morning scenes of Cat Ba and the emerald bay and enjoy some free time at the beach. Go for a swim, kick back with a book or take a stroll along the sand. The best thing is, it’s up to you! In the afternoon, head back to Hanoi and jump on the overnight train to Hue (approximately 12 hours). This may be your first time on an overnight train in Asia and trust us, the first time is always special. It's definitely an experience.
Accommodation
  • Overnight sleeper train (1 night)
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
Sleeper trains typically have four or six berth compartments with bench seats that convert into sleeping bunks. A sheet, pillow and blanket are provided, although some travellers prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet. Depending on the configuration of the group, you may have to share with people of different genders or passengers who aren’t part of the group. Your leader will coordinate and give further information on the trip. Most trains have a dining carriage serving simple food, but we recommend that you stock up on snacks and drinks before departure.

Arrive in Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. You have today free to do as you please. You can easily spend a couple of hours exploring Hue’s massive walled citadel and the Forbidden Purple Palace that's enclosed within it. Perhaps jump on board a dragon boat and enjoy a cruise up the Perfume River to visit the Thien Mu Pagoda. You could also check out Dong Ba Market, which offers locally made goods, fresh produce and some tasty street food. This is a good place to try the dishes that Emperor Nguyen used to feast on: the banh khoai royal rice. If you like being on two wheels then maybe cycle out to one of the royal tombs such as the tomb of Emperor Tu Duc (one of the most excellent remaining examples of its kind), or set off on an optional motorcycle tour of the sights in Hue and some surrounding villages. Tonight, head into the home of a local family and enjoy a prepared dinner. You’ll be chatting and laughing over your chopsticks in no time!
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Hue - Home cooked dinner
Optional Activities
  • Hue - Perfume River cruise & Thien Mu Pagoda - VND220000
  • Hue - Hue Royal City Street Eats Urban Adventure - USD39
Meals Included
  • Dinner

Continue along the coast to Hoi An by private bus (approximately 3 hours). Once in Hoi An, your leader will take you on a walking tour of this unique town which has been influenced over the years by Europe, China, Vietnam and Japan. The town was a major trading port from the 17th century onwards, and its old-school flavour is written all over its architecture. For a small town, it's pretty lively in places. In others, it's chilled out. The tour will take you down the streets that are being restored and look a lot like they did 100 years ago or more. You'll check out a historic house (formerly home to a prominent trader), the Japanese Covered Bridge, a Chinese assembly hall and a museum. After your leader-led walk, you’ll surely be hungry. Lucky thing is that we’ve got you covered. Enjoy a banh mi lunch after your tour – a crusty French baguette filled with delicious pork and other fillings.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Hoi An - Old Town walking tour
  • Hoi An - Banh mi lunch
Optional Activities
  • Hoi An - Food Adventure Urban Adventure - USD31
Meals Included
  • Lunch

Enjoy a free day in Hoi An. Maybe wander to the Central Market and browse the paintings, woodwork, ceramics and lanterns. Hoi An is also famous for its talented tailors, so if you’ve been wearing the same shirt every day (who hasn’t), why not hit one of the same-day tailors and get yourself something new? Or, if you're still feeling adventurous, hire a bicycle and tour the surrounding countryside, or take a ride to the coastline for an afternoon on the South China Sea – this is one of the best ways to travel in and out of town.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Hoi An - Hoi An Walking & Cooking Class Urban Adventure - USD55
  • Hoi An - Hoi An Boat & Bike with Sunset BBQ Urban Adventure - USD54
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Lucky you, it's another free day in this historic haven. You could take a trip out to the My Son temples (World Heritage-listed beauties that reflect the rich cultural traditions of the Cham civilisation), hop on a cruise along the Thu Bon River or get some sun with a trip to the nearby Cua Dai Beach. Afterwards, board your overnight train. This one's going to Phan Rang, a great beach town on the central coast (approximately 8 hours).
Accommodation
  • Overnight sleeper train (1 night)
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Arrive in Phan Rang early this morning for two full days of relaxation. With perhaps the best weather in Vietnam, Phan Rang is a low-key coastal city where swimming and seafood take priority. There may also be an opportunity to hit up some awesome snorkelling spots or hire a surfboard or paddle-board – as if the shimmering waters of the South China Sea aren’t enough. Ask your group leader for details when you arrive. Phan Rang’s vibe is more beach beers than beach bars, so slow down and take it easy because this is meant to be a holiday, isn't it?
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Phan-tastic – another day to soak up the sun, catch up on your favourite book, and enjoy a day of swim, sunbake, eat, repeat. Keep in mind there's one last overnight train to catch tonight, but that just means that you’ll wake up in another cool place tomorrow! Later in the evening, swap the deck chair for a bunk bed and buckle up for the 7-hour journey to Ho Chi Minh City.
Accommodation
  • Overnight sleeper train (1 night)
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City very early (approximately 4 am) and transfer to your hotel, then leave your gear in a day room at the hotel. Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is a whirl of sights and sounds. You can still see the French influence in the top-notch baguettes and coffee on offer. Compared to the north the food is spicier, sweeter and more varied. Perhaps take advantage of the early morning by checking out the markets and tucking into a bowl of pho with the local traders. Your leader will let you know the best places to check out during your free time. Well worth the visit are the Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum. In the afternoon, head with your group to take part in an unofficial ritual with local uni students called Ca Phe Bet, which literally translates to ‘coffee on the flat ground’. Enjoy some coffee and a snack in one of the many parks. Tonight, why not get your group together for a meal and some drinks on Pham Ngu Lao Street?
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Ho Chi Minh City - Ca Phe Bet with locals
Optional Activities
  • Ho Chi Minh City - War Remnants Museum - VND40000
  • Ho Chi Minh City - Reunification Palace - VND40000
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
There are shared day use hotel rooms available on arrival into Ho Chi Minh. There is one room provided between up to 6 members of the group. Single supplements do not apply to day use rooms.

Today you may be required to move to a different hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, for the next section of your trip. Your leader will let you know if this is the case, and will help with the transfer to the next hotel. You will have a free day today for many optional activities. The Cu Chi Tunnels are an extremely interesting day trip nearby – ask your leader about how to book. As this is a combination trip, your group leader and the composition of your group may change at this location. There will be a group meeting to discuss the next stage of your itinerary and you're welcome, as ever, to attend.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Ho Chi Minh City - War Remnants Museum - VND40000
  • Ho Chi Minh City - Reunification Palace - VND40000
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

Today, travel to Phnom Penh by public bus (approximately 10 hours), which includes two border crossings and a stop for your own lunch. Your guide will assist with formalities at both sides of the border. After your long bus ride to Phnom Penh, why not treat yourself to a traditional Khmer massage? Look no further than Seeing Hands, a great cause supporting visually impaired masseurs. If you're looking for a tasty beverage on arrival, head to the Foreign Correspondents' Club for a mojito on the rooftop, which overlooks the junction between the Tonle Sap, Bassac and Mekong rivers.
Accommodation
  • Guesthouse (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Phnom Penh - Khmer massage - USD8
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Today, wake up and enjoy an authentic street food breakfast at one of the local markets. Afterwards, the group will head to Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek on an included visit – both very sobering but important and informative experiences in Cambodia. Afterwards, you may like to explore some other Phnom Penh sights in your own time, like the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, which both offer brighter aspects of Cambodia's past. You might also head for the National Museum or Wat Phnom – a Buddhist temple built in 1372. In the afternoon, head with your group to Futures Factory: a new hospitality concept from Friends International for at-risk youth, providing them with hospitality experience and equipping them with skills to be secure and supported in the workforce. You’ll have the chance to participate in this program and shake your own cocktails or mocktails (with some snacks too, of course). Later on, if your riels are burning a hole in your pocket, look no further than the Central or Russian markets, both great places to interact with the locals.
Accommodation
  • Guesthouse (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Phnom Penh - Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21)
  • Phnom Penh - Killing Fields of Choeung Ek
  • Phnom Penh - Street food breakfast
  • Phnom Penh - Futures Factory cocktail class
Optional Activities
  • Phnom Penh - Wat Phnom - USD2
  • Phnom Penh - National Museum - USD10
  • Phnom Penh - Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda - USD10
  • Phnom Penh - Cyclo tour - USD4
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

This morning, it’s time to head south. Take a private vehicle to the township of Kampot, approximately 3.5 hours from Phnom Penh. Once arrived and settle in, time to look around. Take a heritage walk with your group around the city, and discover the architecture of this quaint town, all from the French Colonial era. You’ll have the opportunity to learn a little of the history of Kampot, plus find some places you’d like to check out on your free day tomorrow! Afterwards, capture a spectacular sunset from the water as you embark on a cruise on the Kampot River. Keep your eyes peeled when the sun goes down, as fireflies may begin to swarm and flicker in the night sky – such a cool sight to see!
Accommodation
  • Guesthouse (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Kampot - Sunset cruise
  • Kampot - Heritage walking tour
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Good morning Kampot! Life is laidback here, and with your full day of freedom, you can do what you want. Kampot is far less overwhelming or touristy than the big cities of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, and has some great restaurants and bars along the river to chill out in during the day. It also acts as a good base for some of the best activities in southern Cambodia. There are several options available for you to take up, including a hike in the thickets of Kep National Park, followed by a visit to the veranda restaurant for panoramic scenery, and hopefully a colourful sunset! Otherwise, take a day trip to Rabbit Island for a snorkelling expedition, or head to a pepper plantation in Kep Province on the mainland. You’re living on Kampot time now, so take your time and see the Cambodia past all the temples.
Accommodation
  • Guesthouse (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Kampot - Khmer massage - USD5
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Travel by private vehicle (approximately 3 hours) into countryside Cambodia to Chambok: a village in the region of Kampong Speu. Chambok is very close to the beautiful Kirirom National Park and the serenity and peace of the jungle is also felt in town. A homestay tonight is your chance to really immerse yourself in everyday life with the locals. You and your group will have the option to trek to an awesome 40-metre waterfall nearby. lt is a 60 to 90 minute trek and access is weather dependant. At night, feast on a traditional Khmer dinner, prepared by the talented women of the community, and enjoy a celebration of traditional dancing.
Accommodation
  • Homestay (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Chambok - Traditional dancing
  • Chambok - Waterfall hike
  • Chambok - Homestay and activities
Meals Included
  • Dinner
Special Information
We stay in one room in multishare homestay accommodation. Depending on the group size, we may use two homes that are located close to each other. There will be a thin mattress on the floor, pillow, mosquito net and towel for each traveller. Bathroom facilities will be shared and will often consist of a squat toilet and cold water washing area.

Kampong Cham in a nutshell is frontier charm with French-colonial character. Take a private vehicle there (4.5–5 hours) and soak it all up. Included today is bicycle hire to explore the surrounds, and potentially ride across to the island of Koh Pen (weather permitting). Your group leader will also take you to the 11th-century Wat Nokor temple – one of the lesser-known ‘wats’ in Cambodia. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, a little further away are the twin mountain temples of Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei which, as well as being fascinating sites of religious, historic and spiritual significance, are more than worthy of a picture or two.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Kampong Cham - Wat Nokor
  • Kampong Cham - Bicycle hire
Optional Activities
  • Kampong Cham - Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei - USD10
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Take a public bus to Siem Reap (approximately 5 hours). Your leader will take you on an orientation walk to get your bearings of the town. Afterwards, you might want to hit the markets or head to a restaurant for some cheap and tasty street food, like some lort cha (frieg egg noodles) or chive cakes, then get some rest and relaxation before tomorrow's visit to the crowd favourite: Angkor Wat.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Get your camera ready, strap on your walking boots and get ready: it’s temple time. The Angkor complex is arguably South East Asia's biggest highlight. This area been made famous by films such as Tomb Raider, but more importantly has a deep history spanning six centuries from around AD800 as the site of different capitals of the Khmer Empire. The obvious attraction is the world-renowned Angkor Wat, which is every bit as amazing as everyone says it is, especially at sunrise and sunset. As a group, you'll have a guided tour of the whole site, and depending on the weather and the group’s desires, your leader can tailor the time of day and the parts of the complex you’ll see. There’s also plenty of time to visit the other monuments of this sprawling complex, like the giant carved faces of Bayon and the peculiar Ta Prohm – a temple being swallowed by the grip of tentacle-like tree roots.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Siem Reap - One day Angkor Pass
  • Siem Reap - Angkor Temples Guided Tour
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Kick back in Siem Reap and wander around town, visiting its market, shops and restaurants. Depending on the season, you might like to visit Tonle Sap, the big freshwater lake, for a glimpse of local life. Adventure-seekers and adrenaline-junkies can do the Angkor zip-line course that will have you soaring like an eagle over the lush rainforest. For even more bragging material, you can learn the tricks of the trade in a Khmer cooking class. And if you just can't stay away from Angkor, longer passes than the standard one-day option are available. Ask your leader for more information as they can hook you up with a good deal. You’ll have some fun today with an included activity with your group, all in the name of responsible travel. The Rehash Trash recycling workshop is a women’s empowerment, skills-training, recycling and environmental clean-up initiative, and by the end of the workshop, you’ll have a souvenir or piece of jewellery to take away with you. This project is one of many in this region attempting to eliminate plastic waste in their community. If your creation didn’t come out as well as hoped, shop in their store for some other unique purchases!
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Siem Reap - Rehash Trash Recycling Workshop
Optional Activities
  • Siem Reap - Full day remork transport to Angkor complex - USD20
  • Siem Reap - Three day Angkor Pass - USD62
  • Siem Reap - Landmine Museum - USD5
  • Siem Reap - Phare Circus Ticket - USD18
  • Siem Reap - Urban Adventure Cambodian Cook-out - USD52
  • Siem Reap - Urban Adventures Tonle Sap Secrets - USD45
  • Siem Reap - Angkor Zipline Silver Tour - USD129
  • Siem Reap - Urban Adventure Street Food by Night - USD48
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Goodbye Cambodia, hello Thailand. Drive from Siem Reap to Bangkok in a private minivan (approximately 10 hours, including a border crossing and lunch stop). Again, your leader will assist with the border crossing formalities. If you expect a soothing and charming day, think again – it's go, go, go in Thailand's frenetic capital, but that’s all part of the fun. The khlongs (canals) are a great way to escape from all the chaos – maybe take a boat to the popular Chinatown for a delicious street food dinner. A traditional Thai massage may also be a good option to relax into the evening. Bangkok has some great nightlife and rooftop bars, so be sure to stake out a place with your travel buddies and watch day turn to night.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
If you prefer not to travel by bus for the day, you are welcome to book a flight between the two cities instead. This flight will be at your own expense, however Intrepid can assist with Airport transfers where required.

Due to strict immigration laws your Cambodian trip leader will escort you to the Cambodian side of the border where you will say farewell before going through immigration unaccompanied. Once exiting immigration you will be met by one of our Thai trip leaders who will escort you to Bangkok. All of our trip leaders have been briefed to ensure this is a simple and smooth process.

With no more activities planned, you're free to depart at any time. Bangkok is full of things to do, including the Grand Palace, Temple of the Emerald Buddha, or the very cool Jim Thompson museum. Better yet, why not check out one of the many Urban Adventures on offer? There’s a Tuk Tuk Experience, or you could get behind a bike and weave through all of the traffic. Visit urbanadventures.com/destination/bangkok-tours for more information. If you wish to spend more time in Bangkok, we’ll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).
Optional Activities
  • Bangkok - Bangkok Tuk Tuk Experience Urban Adventure - THB2175
  • Bangkok - Bangkok Temple & River of Kings Urban Adventure - THB2465
  • Bangkok - Bangkok Chinatown Food Discovery Urban Adventure - THB2149
  • Bangkok - Bangkok by Bike Urban Adventure - THB1913
  • Bangkok - Khlong boat canal tour - THB900
  • Bangkok - Jim Thompson's House - THB150
  • Bangkok - Wat Pho - THB200
  • Bangkok - Grand Palace - THB500
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Meals

13 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners

Transport

Private minivan, Public bus, Slow boat, Overnight sleeper train, Songthaew, Tuk-Tuk

Accommodation

Guesthouse (8 nights), Homestay (1 night), Hotel (18 nights), Overnight sleeper train (4 nights), Hostel (3 nights)

Included activities

  • Bangkok - Chinatown walking tour
  • Chiang Mai - Muay Thai Class (Thai boxing)
  • Mekong River - 2 day boat cruise
  • Luang Prabang - Pak Ou Caves
  • Luang Prabang - Alms giving ceremony
  • Luang Prabang - orientation walk
  • Luang Prabang - Wat Xieng Thong
  • Vang Vieng - Tham Jung Cave
  • Vientiane - Wat Si Saket
  • Vientiane - Leader orientation walk
  • Vientiane - COPE visit
  • Cat Ba Island - Boat trip on Lan Ha Bay
  • Cat Ba Island - Kayaking
  • Cat Ba Island - Rice paper roll class
  • Hue - Home cooked dinner
  • Hoi An - Old Town walking tour
  • Hoi An - Banh mi lunch
  • Ho Chi Minh City - Ca Phe Bet with locals
  • Phnom Penh - Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21)
  • Phnom Penh - Killing Fields of Choeung Ek
  • Phnom Penh - Street food breakfast
  • Phnom Penh - Futures Factory cocktail class
  • Kampot - Sunset cruise
  • Kampot - Heritage walking tour
  • Chambok - Traditional dancing
  • Chambok - Waterfall hike
  • Chambok - Homestay and activities
  • Kampong Cham - Wat Nokor
  • Kampong Cham - Bicycle hire
  • Siem Reap - One day Angkor Pass
  • Siem Reap - Angkor Temples Guided Tour
  • Siem Reap - Rehash Trash Recycling Workshop

Dates & availability

Trip search is unavailable.

There are currently no scheduled departures on our Epic South East Asia trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.

Prices may change, so secure your trip today!
Jump to a departure month
Travel lightly with Intrepid. We’ve offset the main sources of carbon emissions from this trip on your behalf, including transport, accommodation & waste. Read more

Important notes

1. Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport), for internal flights and train tickets. Ticketing fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket.
2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Days 2, 16, 20 & 22 (Overnight train), Days 3, 4 & 5 (Hostel), Day 7 (Guesthouse) and Day 29 (Homestay) where you will be in shared accommodation, and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

Essential trip information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

View Essential Trip Information

Reviews

Go to dates