Epic Bangkok to Singapore

Epic Bangkok to Singapore

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22 Days From

$1870

Epic Bangkok to Singapore

22 Days Starting in Bangkok and ending in Singapore

Visiting: Bangkok, Bangkok - Overnight Train, Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai - Hilltribe Trek, Hilltribe Trek, Chiang Mai - Overnight sleeper train, Bangkok – Overnight Train, Ko Samui, Phrom Lok Homestay, Ao Nang, Penang, Cameron Highlands, Kuala Lumpur, Melaka, Singapore

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

TTYSC

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 16

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-35 years

Tour operated in:

English
From: $1870

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

On this epic 22-day exploration of Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore, you’ll explore the bustling hub of Bangkok, checking out the night markets and bars before trekking the hillside villages outside Chiang Mai. See the city and its colourful nightlife, then find waterfalls, herds of elephants and some unforgettable natural scenery you’d only see from local hilltribes. Kick back on the pristine waters of Ko Samui and cycle through rural villages to waterfalls. Laze on the palm-fringed beaches of Ao Nang (with loads of free time to go sea-kayaking or brush up on your rock-climbing skills) and eat your way through Penang’s street food. Stay with the locals during unique homestay experiences in Phrom Lok and northern Thailand and tuck into some delicious home-cooked Thai food. On this adventure, you’ll visit temples, take street food tours, soak in panoramic views, see UNESCO World Heritage Sites and tantalise your tastebuds with some of the tastiest food in the world!

Highlights

  • Trek deep – super deep – into the northern Thai hinterland with two days of trekking and two nights staying in a traditional hilltribe village, laughing with the locals and learning about their lifestyle.?

  • Immerse yourself in some of the most beautiful landscapes in all of Thailand, from cascading waterfalls and mountainside views to a kayaking adventure on Mae Taeng River and a couple of days lazing on Ko Samui Island.?

  • Tick some South East Asian highlights off your bucket list with this epic trip through the paradise of Koh Samui Island, the serenity of the Cameron Highlands and the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.

  • Settle into local life with a homestay in Phrom Lok. Cycle around the countryside, cool off in a waterfall and tuck into some delicious home-cooked meals.

  • Take some time out in Ao Nang to recharge and relax and soak up the beach side bliss with loads of free time to go sea kayaking, rock climbing or cocktail hunting.??

  • Trek deep – super deep – into the northern Thai hinterland with two days of trekking and two nights staying in a traditional hilltribe village, laughing with the locals and learning about their lifestyle.

  • Immerse yourself in some of the most beautiful landscapes, from cascading waterfalls, stunning beaches and mountainside views to a kayaking adventure on Mae Taeng River (followed by a spot of white-water rafting if you dare).

  • Eat on the roadside in Bangkok, Penang and Singapore, with included and optional street food experiences and plenty of free time (not to mention your trusty local leader) to find all the best food stalls.

  • Enjoy loads of free time to choose your own adventure, whether that’s a bit of rest and relaxation with a Thai massage or discovering new friends at the Chiang Chill Elephant Sanctuary.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Bangkok

Location: Bangkok

Accommodation: Hotel

Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Bangkok, Thailand. Your adventure kicks off with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, there's plenty to keep you occupied – maybe take a walk around Chinatown and explore the vibrant streets or head to the magnificent Grand Palace. Tonight, it’s time to dig into some traditional tastes of Thailand. Bangkok is known for its street food, so maybe head out with your leader and check out some roadside stalls around the Sukhumvit area. Later, maybe discover Bangkok’s nightlife and head out to one (or more) of the best local bars. Ask your guide for directions or grab your new travel mates and attempt to navigate the BTS skytrain and MRT subway.

Included Activities:
-Bangkok - Orientation Walk

Optional Activities:
-Bangkok - Thai Massage
-Bangkok - Grand Palace
-Bangkok - Temple & River of Kings Urban Adventure
-Bangkok - Tuk Tuk Experience Urban Adventure

Day 2: Bangkok - Overnight Train

Location: Bangkok - Overnight Train

Accommodation: Overnight Sleeper Train

This morning, you have a free day in Bangkok before your overnight train this morning. Maybe start off with a relaxing Thai massage – the perfect way to limber up and start your day. Then, maybe check out Talad Noi by bike, take on the Bangkok Temples or book yourself on the River of Kings Urban Adventure (just see urbanadventures.com). After your day exploring, hop on an overnight train up to Chiang Mai.

Optional Activities:
-Bangkok - Tuk Tuk Experience Urban Adventure
-Bangkok - Temple & River of Kings Urban Adventure
-Bangkok - Thai Massage
-Bangkok - Grand Palace

Day 3: Chiang Mai

Location: Chiang Mai

Accommodation: Hotel

Arrive in Chiang Mai in the morning and transfer to your guesthouse. Then, you’ll head out on an orientation walk to get your bearings. Chiang Mai is the perfect entrance to the Thai highlands, with misty mountains and colourful hillside villages waiting to be explored. This will be your base for the next few days, as you’ll return here after your hillside trek. Today, you’re free to relax or explore the city. Maybe get active and go ziplining or cycle around the city. Take on a cooking class to learn some local flavours (and pick up some mad skills to take home) or just wander around on foot and visit Doi Sethep Temple and a couple of the cool cafes around the area. Tonight, why not get your group together to go bar hopping or explore the night markets in the happening Nimman area?

Included Activities:
-Chiang Mai - Night Bazaar & Anusarn Market
-Chiang Mai - Orientation Walk

Optional Activities:
-Chiang Mai - Thai massage
-Chiang Mai - Doi Suthep Temple Complex (Entrance)
-Chiang Mai - Bicycle tour
-Chaing Mai - Cooking at Home Cookery School
-Chiang Mai – Zipline (from)

Day 4: Chiang Mai - Hilltribe Trek

Location: Chiang Mai - Hilltribe Trek

Accommodation: Hilltribe Village House (multi-share)

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

This morning at around 8 am, leave Chiang Mai and head to Mae Malai Market to stock up on some delicious fresh snacks for your trek. Then, visit Mok Fah Waterfall for a cheeky dose of natural beauty. Sit down for some lunch to refuel with your group at a local restaurant, then continue to the starting point of today’s hike. Your destination for this evening is the Mae Ma Nai Hilltribe Village. Walk along the mountain ridge and take in the views of the natural forest and remote scenery. When you arrive, enjoy a local home-cooked dinner by the campfire to celebrate a successful day. Later, take a walk around the village and chat with the locals. This is a really special opportunity to experience rural Thai life first-hand!

Included Activities:
-Huey Nam Dang - Hilltribe Trek – 2 Days
-Hilltribe Trek - Mae Malai Market Visit
-Hilltribe Village - Home-cooked Dinner
-Hilltribe Trek – Mok Fah Waterfall

Day 5: Hilltribe Trek

Location: Hilltribe Trek

Accommodation: Hilltribe Village House (multi-share)

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

The best thing about being deep in the jungle in the morning is waking up to the natural sounds of wildlife calls. After breakfast, begin today’s trek through the storybook landscape of farmland and jungle, exploring other hilltribe villages and seeing how life differs between them. Your whole trek is the perfect nature photo op, so make sure you’ve got your camera handy! Enjoy lunch along the way and reach Pong Ngan Lahu Village this afternoon. After two long days of hiking, relax your legs and soak in some natural scenery before an included home-cooked dinner tonight.

Included Activities:
-Huey Nam Dang - Hilltribe Trek – 2 Days

Day 6: Chiang Mai

Location: Chiang Mai

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

The Mae Taeng River awaits you this morning, as you head off on a kayaking adventure towards Sop Kai Village. Paddle downstream as you're immersed by gorgeous surroundings for 2 to 3 hours, taking in the lush green scenery. From here, you can choose to head back to Chiang Mai via private transfer and enjoy a leisurely evening or opt to take to the rapids for some whitewater rafting. Paddle further down the river and get the adrenaline pumping before you head back to Chiang Mai for the night. When you arrive, maybe refresh and recharge or head out to explore the Wat Prasingh and Wat Chedi Luang temples in your free time. Tonight, ask your leader for the best spots for a pad thai or a khao soi.

Included Activities:
-Sop Kai Village - River Kayaking

Optional Activities:
-Chiang Mai - Thai massage
-Mae Taeng - Whitewater Rafting

Day 7: Chiang Mai - Overnight Sleeper Train

Location: Chiang Mai - Overnight sleeper train

Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today is a free day to explore Chiang Mai and you’re spoilt for options. Maybe take the chance to learn one of the world’s legendary martial arts, Muay Thai (Thai Boxing) this morning. Spend 1.5 hours learning the basics of Muay Thai with the pros, plus how to adapt yourselves to be the weapons and the guard. You could also visit the Chiang Chill Elephant Sanctuary and witness these majestic animals roaming the valley and chilling in nature. Or maybe stop by Chuan Chom Vocational Training Center for lunch or a massage. Here, you'll learn about the work that they do to train the women from the correctional institution with skills to go back to society. Later, board an overnight train for Bangkok.

Optional Activities:
-Chiang Mai - Muay Thai Class (Thai boxing)
-Chaing Mai - Cooking at Home Cookery School
-Chiang Mai - Chuan Chom Vocational Training Centre - Massage (from)
-Chiang Mai - Wat Chedi Luang Temple
-Chiang Mai - Bicycle tour
-Chiang Mai – Zipline (from)
-Chiang Mai - ChangChill Elephant Sanctuary
-Chiang Mai – Whitewater Rafting
-Chiang Mai - Doi Inthanon (Entrance)
-Chiang Mai - Wat Prasingh Temple
-Chiang Mai - Doi Suthep Temple Complex (Entrance)

Day 8: Bangkok

Location: Bangkok

Accommodation: Hotel

Your train is scheduled to arrive in Bangkok early this morning. The rest of the day is free until your second meeting at 6 pm tonight. Why not take a walk around Chinatown while you wait and explore the crowded streets, wander down the tourist hub of Khao San Road or indulge in a Thai massage?

Optional Activities:
-Bangkok - Temple & River of Kings Urban Adventure
-Bangkok - Tuk Tuk Experience Urban Adventure

Day 9: Bangkok – Overnight Train

Location: Bangkok – Overnight Train

Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train

Wake up to the hustle and bustle of Bangkok this morning. Today, you’ll visit Wat Pho – or ‘the temple of the reclining Buddha’. This is one of the largest and oldest wats in Bangkok and as well as the huge reclining statue, this wat is home to over a thousand images of Buddha. Wander around the complex, then take a ferry to Wang Lang Market. Next to Chao Phraya River, the local market is home to food, handicrafts and clothes. After wandering the market, take the ferry back across the river and wander through the leafy riverside district of Tha Maharaj, maybe grabbing some lunch. Tonight, you’ll hop on an overnight train to Surat Thani.

Included Activities:
-Bangkok - Wang Lang Local Market
-Bangkok - Wat Pho

Optional Activities:
-Bangkok - Thai Massage

Day 10: Ko Samui

Location: Ko Samui

Accommodation: Resort

This morning you’ll arrive in Surat Thani in the early hours before hopping on a local bus and a ferry to the gorgeous Koh Samui. Thailand’s second-largest island is known for its palm-fringed beaches, coconut groves and dense, mountainous rainforest. With your local leader, you’ll enjoy a half day tour around the island, before settling into island life in the afternoon. Relax on the beach, go cocktail hunting or maybe just find the best spot to park yourself for sunset – the nightly display of colour is a must.

Included Activities:
-Ko Samui - Half Day Guided Tour

Day 11: Ko Samui

Location: Ko Samui

Accommodation: Resort

Today is a free day in paradise. Maybe spend your day relaxing by the sea, or maybe you’d like to head out for a sightseeing tour of the island. Explore coastal beach spots or go searching for the many arms of the deities at Wat Plai Laem Temple. Foodies might like to take a cooking class and learn how to dish up some of Thai cuisine. Day trips are also available, like a visit to Anthong National Marine Park or a full day snorkelling trip around Koh Nang Yuan. Your local leader will be on hand to help you choose your own adventure.

Optional Activities:
-Ko Samui - Samui Elephant Sanctuary
-Ko Samui - Thai Massage
-Ko Samui - Thai Cooking Class
-Ko Samui - Ang Thong Marine Park tour
-Ko Samui - Day trip to Koh Tao
-Ko Samui - Island sightseeing tour
-Koh Tao - Koh Nang Yuan Snorkeling Day Trip

Day 12: Phrom Lok Homestay

Location: Phrom Lok Homestay

Accommodation: Homestay

Meals Included: lunch, dinner

Say goodbye to the palm trees, silky sands and bright waters of Koh Samui this morning. When you arrive back on the mainland, you’ll take a private transfer to the Phrom Lok District, where you’ll stay tonight during a unique homestay experience. Meet the local villagers and immerse yourself in local life as you take on their daily activities and gain an insight into their culture. Have a home-cooked lunch together, then hop on two wheels for a cycling adventure around the community. Cycle to Phrom Lok Waterfall and cool off with a swim (depending on the season), then ride to Phrom Khiri District. Tonight, you’ll tuck into an authentic home-cooked dinner of southern Thai food, then try your hand at the art of Batik painting (a textile technique that uses wax and dye to create patterns on pieces of fabric).

Included Activities:
-Phrom Lok – Bike Hire
-Phrom Lok – Home-cooked Dinner
-Phrom Lok – Community Visit and Homestay
-Phrom Lok – Waterfall Visit

Day 13: Ao Nang

Location: Ao Nang

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Tuck into breakfast with the locals this morning, then head out on the bike again to visit a local mushroom farm, rubber plantation and see a grass broom making demonstration. After, refuel with lunch back at the village, then say goodbye to your hosts and head to Ao Nang. This resort town is known for its gorgeous beaches, colourful sunsets and limestone islands that jut out from the still seas. You’ll have free time from the late afternoon to soak in the beauty of the sky as the sun goes down – maybe ask your leader where the best spot for a local feed or a couple of beers might be and enjoy the balmy evening.

Included Activities:
-Phrom Lok – Bike Hire

Day 14: Ao Nang

Location: Ao Nang

Accommodation: Hotel

You’ll have a free day for beach activities in Ao Nang today. You can opt to go sea kayaking around the limestone islands, rock climbing on the nearby mountains and cliffs, or take a day trip to the Phi Phi Islands. You can always your ask your leader for tips if you’re feeling spoiled for choice.

Optional Activities:
-Ao Nang - Transport to Railay Beach (round trip)
-Ao Nang - Rock Climbing
-Ao Nang - Sea kayaking
-Ao Nang - Thai Cooking Class
-Ao Nang - Phi Phi Island Day Tour
-Ao Nang - Scuba Diving (3 dives)
-Ao Nang - Four Islands Snorkelling Tour

Day 15: Penang

Location: Penang

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: dinner

Today, you’ll say goodbye to the beauties of Thailand. Next stop – Malaysia! Today will be a long travel day, but it’s a great opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers a little better, play some road trip games or get stuck into a good book. After border formalities, hop in a private transfer to Penang, Malaysia's prized island. Known for its coastline and Georgetown area – a cool, World Heritage-listed blend of religious sites – this place is also serious about its street food! Head out with your leader tonight on a tour of the best local haunts and pick up some delicious specialties. You might snag an ice kacang (a dessert made with crushed ice, syrup and a mixture of jellies, nuts and sweet beans), a hearty nasi kandar (steamed rice accompanied by curries, fried chicken, seafood or vegetables) or the popular char kway teow (stir-fried rice noodles). After, maybe head out for an optional bar crawl with the gang.

Included Activities:
-Penang - Hawker food experience

Day 16: Penang

Location: Penang

Accommodation: Hotel

Today, your leader will take you on an orientation walk through the Georgetown area, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to check out the shophouses, Penang Museum, street art and clan jetties. When you’ve got your bearings, the rest of the day is yours. You might like to get your heart rate up with a testing hike up Penang Hill, where the views are worth the effort. Or, maybe check out Kek Lok Si (the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia), Khoo Kongsi (one of the oldest clan houses in Malaysia) or Cheong Fat Tze Museum (if you have an interest in Feng Shui), then go looking for some more local food. This place is famous for its cuisine, and it’s all thanks to the many cultures that have lived side-by-side for ages.

Included Activities:
-Penang - leader led orientation walk

Optional Activities:
-Penang - Trishaw Ride
-Penang - Teluk Bahang National Park
-Penang - Khoo Kongsi
-Penang - Kek Lok Si Temple
-Penang - Funicular Railway
-Penang - Penang Hill and Temple Tour

Day 17: Cameron Highlands

Location: Cameron Highlands

Accommodation: Guesthouse

Today, you’ll hop in a private vehicle to the Cameron Highlands, stopping at the city of Ipoh along the way. This city looks like it comes right out of an anime movie, with its dramatic rock formations, caves and the ornate Perak Cave Temple. Spend some time wandering around and then carry on to the highlands, making your way into the undulating green hills. This area is beyond gorgeous, and you’ll have a leisurely afternoon to choose how to best explore it. Maybe head on an optional sightseeing tour, which visits the local tea plantation and factory, a strawberry farm, a honey bee farm, a rose garden, a Buddhist temple and the market square.

Included Activities:
-Ipoh - Temple Visit

Optional Activities:
-Cameron Highlands – Sightseeing Tour

Day 18: Kuala Lumpur

Location: Kuala Lumpur

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Wake up to the lush surroundings of the highlands this morning and maybe take up an optional adventure through Mount Brinchang, trekking through the Mossy Forest and ending up in a strawberry farm (this is a great opportunity to grab some great photos). This afternoon, you’ll take a public bus to Malaysia's capital – Kuala Lumpur. If you're still feeling up for a little adventure when you arrive, you might like to head out to a bar with a view and take in the city’s lights over a cocktail. Be sure to try and find one with a view of the mighty Petronas Towers, which come to life under the lights of night.

Optional Activities:
-Cameron Highlands – Adventure Tour

Day 19: Kuala Lumpur

Location: Kuala Lumpur

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today is a free day to explore Kuala Lumpur at your own pace. Maybe you’d like to head out of the city and visit the famous Batu Caves. Check out the tall Murugan statue and the colourful steps that lead up to the limestone karsts (but be careful of the mischievous monkeys.) When you’re hungry, your leader can show you where to find some of the best roti in the city. You can hit Bukit Bintang (for restaurants and bars), the Golden Triangle (for shopping) or Menara Tower (entry fee applies). Kuala Lumpur also has some great nightlife and your local leader will be sure to know the best spots!

Optional Activities:
-Kuala Lumpur - Batu Cave - Free
-Kuala Lumpur - KL Tower
-Kuala Lumpur - National Mosque - Free
-Kuala Lumpur - Petronas Towers Skybridge & Observation Deck
-Kuala Lumpur - Islamic Arts Museum
-Kuala Lumpur – Bike Tour
-Kuala Lumpur – Foodie Experience

Day 20: Melaka

Location: Melaka

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Hop on a public bus to Melaka this morning. An intriguing blend of Malay, Indian, Chinese and Portuguese cultures, Melaka has a wealth of interesting architecture, distinctive food and proud cultural heritage. When you arrive, head out for an orientation walk with your leader. Once the most important trading port of Malaysia, Melaka attracted Chinese, Indian, Dutch, Portuguese and British traders, and you'll notice how this diversity is reflected in its overall vibe. Check out Harmony Street where these communities have their places of worship, with a church, mosque and a couple of different temples. The rest of the day is free.

Included Activities:
-Melaka - Orientation Walk

Optional Activities:
-Melaka - Baba Nonya Heritage Museum
-Melaka - Museum Of Enduring Beauty
-Melaka - River Tour
-Melaka - Trishaw sightseeing tour
-Melaka - Eco Bike Tour

Day 21: Singapore

Location: Singapore

Accommodation: Hotel

Today, a public bus journey will take you to Singapore. After a bit of a long travel day and border formalities, your leader will take you on an orientation walk to give you an introduction to this ever-evolving city. There will be time to take in the retail hot spots like Orchard Road and the 'booming cross-cultural culinary scene' before enjoying an evening with your fellow travellers. You might like to hit up one of Singapore’s famous hawker centres (Newton, Lau Pa Sat or Tiong Bahru) or head to the Sky Bar at Marina Bay Sands, which boasts sweeping views of the Singaporean port and skyline. Maybe grab a couple of drinks here with the gang – the 360-degree views across the city also gives a great bird’s eye view of Gardens By The Bay. While you’re up in the clouds, you might catch its light show!

Included Activities:
-Singapore - Orientation Walk

Day 22: Singapore

Location: Singapore

Meals Included: breaksfast

With no further activities planned, your trip comes to an end this morning. If you’d like to extend your stay and soak in more of what Singapore has to offer, just speak to your booking agent.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotel (12 nights), Overnight sleeper train (3 night), Hilltribe Village House (multi-share) (2 nights), Resort (2 nights), Homestay (1 night), Guesthouse (1 night)

  • Bangkok - Orientation Walk

  • Chiang Mai - Night Bazaar & Anusarn Market

  • Chiang Mai - Orientation Walk

  • Huey Nam Dang - Hilltribe Trek – 2 Days

  • Hilltribe Trek - Mae Malai Market Visit

  • Hilltribe Village - Home-cooked Dinner

  • Hilltribe Trek – Mok Fah Waterfall

  • Sop Kai Village - River Kayaking

  • Bangkok - Wang Lang Local Market

  • Bangkok - Wat Pho

show more

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

Transport

  • OVERNIGHT TRAINS
  • Overnight sleeper trains in Thailand are air-conditioned and have sleeping berths down both sides of the carriage. The carriage is multishare, with are curtains that close over the beds. A sleeping sheet and a pillow are provided, and our luggage travels in the carriage with us. There is a western and Asian-style toilet located at the end of the carriage, but no showers. Carriage lights staying on during the night, so an eye mask is a good thing to bring with you, as is warm clothes as the air conditioning can be cold. For more on overnight trains in Thailand and around the world: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/overnight-train-travel-around-the-world/
  • LONG TRAVEL DAYS
  • There are some long travel days and some of the transport can be quite cramped and without air-conditioning.

Included Activities

  • Doi Inthanont - 2 dayHilltribe trek
  • Chiang Mai - Muay Thai Class (Thai boxing)
  • Bangkok - Chinatown walking tour
  • Khao Sok - Cheow Lan Lake boat trip
  • Ao Nang - Homestay visit with dinner
  • Penang - Hawker food experience
  • Penang - leader led orientation walk
  • Kuala Lumpur - Batu Cave
  • Singapore - Leader Led Orientation Walk

Accommodation

  • OCCASIONAL ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION
  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.
  • TWIN SHARE / MULTI SHARE BASIS
  • Accommodation on this trip is on a twin/multishare basis. Please note there may be times where facilities will be shared rather than ensuite and rare occasions when you share a room with passengers travelling on a different Intrepid trip than your own.
  • CHECK-IN TIME
  • Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination.
  • PRE/POST TRIP ACCOMMODATION
  • If you've purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (subject to availability), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.

Important Information

  • 1. A Single Supplement to have your own room is bookable on this trip, subject to availability, and excludes Days 2, 7 & 9 (Overnight train), Days 4 & 5 (Hilltribe Village), and Day 12 (Homestay). Please note that some room configurations have two single beds, although a double bed will always be requested.
  • 2. Please provide your full name as per passport and passport number 45 days prior to departure in order to secure the train ticket in Malaysia. 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.

Mode of Transport

  • OVERNIGHT TRAINS
  • Overnight sleeper trains in Thailand are air-conditioned and have sleeping berths down both sides of the carriage. The carriage is multishare, with are curtains that close over the beds. A sleeping sheet and a pillow are provided, and our luggage travels in the carriage with us. There is a western and Asian-style toilet located at the end of the carriage, but no showers. Carriage lights staying on during the night, so an eye mask is a good thing to bring with you, as is warm clothes as the air conditioning can be cold. For more on overnight trains in Thailand and around the world: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/overnight-train-travel-around-the-world/
  • LONG TRAVEL DAYS
  • There are some long travel days and some of the transport can be quite cramped and without air-conditioning.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    This trip is designed with lots of free time to give you the flexibility and space for making your own discoveries. This is a great way to travel independently while drawing on the knowledge of local leaders.

    Part of travelling with Intrepid means respecting local cultures and sensibilities. Please bring clothes that cover the arms and pants/skirts that go past the knees. A light scarf is also a good idea for covering shoulders and arms when it’s hot.

    This trip includes a two-day hillside trek, which is challenging and involves a lot of walking. Take note of the time of year you’re trekking to know what to expect weather-wise. The wet season runs from May to October and often results in muddy or slippery paths. Please ensure you bring sturdy walking shoes and comfortable clothes. To make the most of the trip, it's best if you have a good level of fitness.

    Some long travel days and overnight trains are included, which can be tiresome. Although conditions are basic, overnight trains are a true local experience and the best way to travel long distances, meet locals and maximise time at your destinations. Occasionally, passengers of different genders will be required to share a compartment and/or you'll share with locals or travellers from other groups. For your own security, take a lock for your luggage.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

Nicole  

North American Adventure

12-Oct-2021

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

Cambodia Discovery

22-Jan-2024

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

Merouane Harkat   Uk

Explore Southern Africa

08-Mar-2024

Best trip ever was, 2 things I didn't like the black mamba stop was wasting day and village ,so 2 night I think was just wasting, I could do 2 days in Kruger, and one more night in delta

Alan Perrott (Google Reviewer)  

We had a fantastic time...

13-Aug-2024

We had a fantastic time on the Botswana Highlights tour recently. We chose Intrepid because it seemed to suit what we wanted - well planned itinerary, small group, comfortable without being overly luxurious (and pricey), and supportive of the local community and environment. We weren't disappointed, and as we met with other like-minded travellers then we all had a great time. We are already planning our next Intrepid tour - maybe Vietnam & Cambodia :-)

1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 29, 2024 - Jan 19, 2025
$2035

Sunday - Sunday

Jan 12, 2025 - Feb 02, 2025
$1965

Sunday - Sunday

Feb 02, 2025 - Feb 23, 2025
$1965

Sunday - Sunday

Feb 16, 2025 - Mar 09, 2025
$1945

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 09, 2025 - Mar 30, 2025
$1945

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 23, 2025 - Apr 13, 2025
$1870

Sunday - Sunday

Apr 13, 2025 - May 04, 2025
$1870

Sunday - Sunday

May 11, 2025 - Jun 01, 2025
$1870

Sunday - Sunday

Jun 15, 2025 - Jul 06, 2025
$1870

Sunday - Sunday

Jun 29, 2025 - Jul 20, 2025
$1870

Sunday - Sunday

Jul 13, 2025 - Aug 03, 2025
$1870

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 10, 2025 - Aug 31, 2025
$1870

Sunday - Sunday

Sep 07, 2025 - Sep 28, 2025
$1945

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 12, 2025 - Nov 02, 2025
$1945

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 02, 2025 - Nov 23, 2025
$2020

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 16, 2025 - Dec 07, 2025
$2020

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 30, 2025 - Dec 21, 2025
$2020

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 14, 2025 - Jan 04, 2026
$2150

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 28, 2025 - Jan 18, 2026
$2150

Sunday - Sunday

Jan 11, 2026 - Feb 01, 2026
$2040

Sunday - Sunday

Feb 01, 2026 - Feb 22, 2026
$2120

Sunday - Sunday

Feb 15, 2026 - Mar 08, 2026
$2120

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 08, 2026 - Mar 29, 2026
$2040

Sunday - Sunday

Apr 12, 2026 - May 03, 2026
$2040

Sunday - Sunday

May 10, 2026 - May 31, 2026
$1965

Sunday - Sunday

Jun 14, 2026 - Jul 05, 2026
$1965

Sunday - Sunday

Jun 28, 2026 - Jul 19, 2026
$1965

Sunday - Sunday

Jul 12, 2026 - Aug 02, 2026
$1965

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 09, 2026 - Aug 30, 2026
$1965

Sunday - Sunday

Sep 06, 2026 - Sep 27, 2026
$2040

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 11, 2026 - Nov 01, 2026
$2040

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 01, 2026 - Nov 22, 2026
$2120

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 15, 2026 - Dec 06, 2026
$2120

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 29, 2026 - Dec 20, 2026
$2120

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 13, 2026 - Jan 03, 2027
$2255

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.