12 Multi country Great Indochina Loop Physical cultural itiNErary... Days 1-2 Bangkok Escape the clamour of the capital with a boat ride down the khlongs and a visit to Wat Pho. Day 3 chiang Mai Climb 300 steps to the Doi Suthep Temple to see a panorama of the city. Day 4 huay Xai Explore remote border towns and soak up the riverside serenity. Days 5-6 Mekong river Watch village life pass by while cruising down the river in remote northern Laos. Call in at the Pak Ou Caves, adorned with thousands of carved Buddha images. Days 7-8 luang Prabang Get acquainted with Laos’ history and culture at the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Museum before heading to Kuang Si Falls - the perfect place for an afternoon dip. Days 9-10 Vang Vieng Take a hike among the limestone cliffs or sit by the riverside and soak up the serenity of Vang Vieng. Day 11 Vientiane Enjoy time exploring the capital on foot, by bicycle or by jumbo - Laos’ answer to the tuk-tuk. Day 12 hanoi Say a final farewell to Laos before boarding a plane bound for Hanoi. Day 13 halong Bay Be enchanted by the ethereal beauty of Halong Bay. Stay on a junk overnight. Days 14-15 hanoi Experience Hanoi’s seductive French charm, drop by the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum and take in an evening performance of traditional water puppets. Board the Reunification Express for an overnight journey to Hue. Day 16 hue Wander the Imperial Citadel, discover the wealth of the Nguyen emperors and cruise down the serene Perfume River. Days 17-19 hoi an This port town’s rich heritage is evident in the shuttered windows and pitched roofs of the traditional merchant houses. Days 20-21 ho chi Minh city Browse the bustling Ben Thanh Market then jump in a cyclo and get acquainted with the tangle of Ho Chi Minh City’s streets. Days 22-23 Phnom Penh Learn about Cambodia’s violent past at the Killing Fields. Later, appreciate the peace of present-day Phnom Penh with a beer on breezy Sisowath Quay. Day 24 homestay Enjoy a traditional dinner on a homestay in Kampong Thom. Days 25-27 siem reap/angkor Wat The enigmatic ruins of Angkor provide endless photo opportunities. Explore the temples dotted around Siem Reap with a local guide. Days 28-29 Bangkok Sample spicy specialties, get a massage or shop up a storm back in the energetic capital. ride a longtail boat • down Bangkok’s canals Explore the ancient • temples of chiang Mai cruise down the • Mekong river swim under a waterfall • in luang Prabang unwind in Vientiane • Enjoy hanoi’s exotic • French charm Be enchanted by • beautiful halong Bay Discover imperial • elegance in hue channel the spirits of • old traders in hoi an tantalise tastebuds in • ho chi Minh city Ponder Phnom Penh’s • volatile past see the incredible • temples of angkor near siem reap 29 days, ex Bangkok Departs every Wednesday Delve a little deeper... Spend more time getting acquainted with Bangkok on a city stopover. See trip code TTAP for more details. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED accOMMODatiON Hotel/guesthouse (24 nts), homestay (1 nt), overnight train (2 nts), overnight boat (1 nt) traNsPOrt Plane, overnight train, private bus, boat, public bus, cyclo GrOuP siZE Max 12 MEals 16 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Every Wed & selected Sat GuaraNtEE Departure guaranteed carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt 365 kg pp per trip NOtEs A single supplement is available on this trip traVEllEr ratiNG 4.86 out of 5 Above: Inside Buddhist temple, Thailand - Luciano Mortula Below: Photo Competition, Elephant ride, Chiang Mai, Thailand - Moira McLaughlin ORIGINAL triP cODE TKSV For trip notes, availability and more, enter the trip code at intrepidtravel.com
Original Delve a little deeper... Spend more time getting acquainted with Bangkok on a city stopover. See trip code TTAP for more details. 29 days, ex Bangkok DEPARTURE GUARANTEED For trip notes, availability and more, enter the trip code at intrepidtravel.com Departs every Wednesday Physical cultural triP
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12
Mu
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ntry
Great Indochina LoopPhysical
cultural
itiNErary... Days 1-2 Bangkok Escape the clamour of the
capital with a boat ride down the khlongs and a visit to Wat Pho.
Day 3 chiang Mai Climb 300 steps to the Doi Suthep Temple
to see a panorama of the city. Day 4 huay Xai Explore remote
border towns and soak up the riverside serenity. Days 5-6
Mekong river Watch village life pass by while cruising down the
river in remote northern Laos. Call in at the Pak Ou Caves, adorned
with thousands of carved Buddha images. Days 7-8 luang
Prabang Get acquainted with Laos’ history and culture at the
Traditional Arts and Ethnology Museum before heading to Kuang
Si Falls - the perfect place for an afternoon dip. Days 9-10 Vang
Vieng Take a hike among the limestone cliffs or sit by the riverside
and soak up the serenity of Vang Vieng. Day 11 Vientiane Enjoy
time exploring the capital on foot, by bicycle or by jumbo - Laos’
answer to the tuk-tuk. Day 12 hanoi Say a final farewell to Laos
before boarding a plane bound for Hanoi. Day 13 halong Bay
Be enchanted by the ethereal beauty of Halong Bay. Stay on a
junk overnight. Days 14-15 hanoi Experience Hanoi’s seductive
French charm, drop by the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum
and take in an evening performance of traditional water puppets.
Board the Reunification Express for an overnight journey to Hue.
Day 16 hue Wander the Imperial Citadel, discover the wealth of
the Nguyen emperors and cruise down the serene Perfume River.
Days 17-19 hoi an This port town’s rich heritage is evident in the
shuttered windows and pitched roofs of the traditional merchant
houses. Days 20-21 ho chi Minh city Browse the bustling Ben
Thanh Market then jump in a cyclo and get acquainted with the
tangle of Ho Chi Minh City’s streets. Days 22-23 Phnom Penh
Learn about Cambodia’s violent past at the Killing Fields. Later,
appreciate the peace of present-day Phnom Penh with a beer on
breezy Sisowath Quay. Day 24 homestay Enjoy a traditional
dinner on a homestay in Kampong Thom. Days 25-27 siem
reap/angkor Wat The enigmatic ruins of Angkor provide endless
photo opportunities. Explore the temples dotted around Siem Reap
with a local guide. Days 28-29 Bangkok Sample spicy specialties,
get a massage or shop up a storm back in the energetic capital.
ride a longtail boat • down Bangkok’s canals
Explore the ancient • temples of chiang Mai
cruise down the • Mekong river
swim under a waterfall • in luang Prabang
unwind in Vientiane•
Enjoy hanoi’s exotic • French charm
Be enchanted by • beautiful halong Bay
Discover imperial • elegance in hue
channel the spirits of • old traders in hoi an
tantalise tastebuds in • ho chi Minh city
Ponder Phnom Penh’s • volatile past
see the incredible • temples of angkor near siem reap
29 days, ex BangkokDeparts every Wednesday
Delve a little deeper...
Spend more time getting acquainted with Bangkok on a city stopover. See trip code TTAP for more details.
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
accOMMODatiON Hotel/guesthouse (24 nts), homestay (1 nt), overnight train (2 nts), overnight boat (1 nt) traNsPOrt Plane, overnight train, private bus, boat, public bus, cyclo GrOuP siZE Max 12 MEals 16 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Every Wed & selected Sat GuaraNtEE Departure guaranteed carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt 365 kg pp per trip NOtEs A single supplement is available on this trip traVEllEr ratiNG 4.86 out of 5
Above: Inside Buddhist temple, Thailand - Luciano Mortula Below: Photo Competition, Elephant ride, Chiang Mai, Thailand - Moira McLaughlin
OriginaltriP cODE TKSV
For trip notes, availability and more, enter the trip code at intrepidtravel.com
Try it in reverse...
Start off in the hustle of Bangkok and finish up in the bustle of Ho Chi Minh City. See trip code TKSD for details.
13
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Explore ho chi Minh • city’s tangle of streets
Visit the chilling • tuol sleng Genocide Museum
relive the ancient • glory of the past in the temples of angkor
Explore hanoi’s • evocative Old Quarter
cruise the islands of • halong Bay
Glide down the • Perfume river in a dragonboat
take in the tranquillity • of charming hoi an
confront cambodia’s • tragic past
Be enchanted by the • ancient ruins of angkor
Kick back with a • brew in Bangkok
Admiring the ancient temples of Angkor, Cambodia - Cameron Gaze
accOMMODatiON Hotel (8 nts) traNsPOrt Private bus, boat (subject to water levels), local bus GrOuP siZE Max 12 MEals 2 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Every Tue, Fri & selected Sat & Sun GuaraNtEE Departure guaranteed carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt 91 kg pp per trip NOtEs A single supplement is available on this trip traVEllEr ratiNG 4.70 out of 5
accOMMODatiON Hotel/guesthouse (18 nts), overnight train (2 nts), overnight boat (1 nt) traNsPOrt Overnight train, overnight boat, private bus, public bus GrOuP siZE Max 12 MEals 15 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 1 Dinner BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Every Sat & selected Wed GuaraNtEE Departure guaranteed carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt 222 kg pp per trip NOtEs 1. A single supplement is available on this trip. 2. Combination trip. Please see Trip Notes (Important Notes) for more details. traVEllEr ratiNG 4.81 out of 5
Cambodian Traveller
Indochina Discovery
itiNErary... Day 1 ho chi Minh city Vietnam’s largest city
brims with streetside stalls, stylish new boutiques, tamarind trees
and motorbikes carrying everything from children to chickens.
Arrive early to slurp a steaming bowl of pho or try to hunt for some
bargains at the Ben Thanh Market. Days 2-3 Phnom Penh Cross
into Cambodia and confront the country’s tragic past in the chilling
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. A visit to the infamous Killing Fields
is equally sobering, the site marked by a stupa made up of 8,000
skulls. During free time here, why not head out to explore some
of Phnom Penh’s attractions such as the lively Russian Market, the
National Museum or the Silver Pagoda with its dazzling silver-tiled
floor? Alternatively, stroll along Sisowath Quay and have coffee at
a cafe overlooking the bustling river traffic. Days 4-6 siem reap/
angkor Wat Travel back to a brighter time in Cambodian history
with a trip to the temples of Angkor. From sun-up to sundown,
soak up the sacred beauty of Angkor Wat, the eerie shadows of Ta
Prohm and the serene smiles on the carved faces of the beautiful
Bayon. Day 7 Battambang Admire the elegant architecture
left behind by the French, learn the secrets of Khmer cuisine in a
cooking class, take a leisurely stroll along the river or maybe hail an
oxcart to explore the tranquil surroundings. Days 8-9 Bangkok
Skip back across the border to Bangkok for a spicy curry, a soothing
Thai massage or a spot of shopping at the Suan Lum Night Bazaar.
Charter a longtail boat or take in the Grand Palace’s gleaming
architecture as a fitting end to this historic adventure.
itiNErary... Days 1-2 hanoi Explore streets in the Old Quarter,
take in the mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh, then enjoy a traditional
water-puppet show. Days 3-4 halong Bay/hanoi Breakfast with
the kids of the Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation before boarding
a boat to cruise Halong Bay. Days 5-6 hue Take a dragonboat
down the timeless Perfume River and discover Vietnam’s regal past
in Hue. Days 7-9 hoi an Journey along the spectacular Hai Van
Pass, stopping at China Beach, before arriving into Hoi An, famous
for its traditional architecture, artisans and cuisine. Days 10-12
Nha trang Swim in the South China Sea or savour fresh seafood
on a boat cruise over Nha Trang’s aquamarine waters. Days 13-14
ho chi Minh city Take a cyclo tour through the city and visit the
War Remnants Museum before rowing leisurely along the Mekong.
Learn about longan honey from a beekeeper and visit a rural village
for an insight into traditional ways of life. Days 15-16 Phnom
Penh Confront Cambodia’s tragic past and the atrocities of the
Khmer Rouge regime at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and
Killing Fields. Opt to visit the glittering Silver Pagoda to discover a
brighter time in the country’s history. Days 17-19 siem reap/
angkor Wat Temple-hop around the Angkor complex. Sunrise
at Angkor Wat, the sight of silvery vines wrapped around the
structures of Ta Prohm and the enigmatic smiles on the faces of the
Bayon are unforgettable. Day 20 Battambang Learn the secrets
of Cambodian cuisine or tour the nearby countryside. Days 21-22
Bangkok Toast the adventure with a Singha beer.
9 days, Ho Chi Minh City to Bangkok
22 days, Hanoi to Bangkok
Departs every Tuesday & Friday
Departs every Saturday
Physical
cultural
Physical
cultural
OriginaltriP cODE TVSLC
OriginaltriP cODE TKSE
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
Additional information about this destination is available at intrepidtravel.com
Photo Competition, Fishing village, Nha Trang, Vietnam - Steven Meharry
accOMMODatiON Hotel (19 nts), overnight train (2 nts), overnight boat (1 nt) traNsPOrt Plane, overnight train, overnight boat, bus, boat, cyclo GrOuP siZE Max 12 MEals 22 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 5 Dinners BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Selected Fri GuaraNtEE Departure guaranteed carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt 605 kg pp per trip NOtEs 1. Arrival airport to hotel transfers are included. Please provide your flight details at time of booking. 2. A single supplement is available on this trip. traVEllEr ratiNG 4.97 out of 5
accOMMODatiON Hotel (21 nts), homestay (1 nt), overnight train (3 nts) traNsPOrt Overnight train, bus, boat, ferry, bicycle GrOuP siZE Max 16 MEals 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Selected Sun GuaraNtEE Departure guaranteed carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt 426 kg pp per trip NOtEs Combination Trip. Please see Trip Notes (Important Notes) for more details. traVEllEr ratiNG 4.72 out of 5
start Finish201107 Jan 29 Jan21 Jan 12 Feb04 Feb 26 Feb18 Feb 12 Mar04 Mar 26 Mar18 Mar 09 Apr15 Apr 07 May
17 Jun 09 Jul08 Jul 30 Jul22 Jul 13 Aug05 Aug 27 Aug19 Aug 10 Sep02 Sep 24 Sep16 Sep 08 Oct30 Sep 22 Oct14 Oct 05 Nov
28 Oct 19 Nov11 Nov 03 Dec25 Nov 17 Dec09 Dec 31 Dec23 Dec 14 Jan201206 Jan 28 Jan20 Jan 11 Feb03 Feb 25 Feb
17 Feb 10 Mar02 Mar 24 Mar16 Mar 07 Apr30 Mar 21 Apr13 Apr 05 May18 May 09 Jun15 Jun 07 Jul
start Finish201102 Jan 27 Jan09 Jan 03 Feb16 Jan 10 Feb23 Jan 17 Feb13 Feb 10 Mar27 Feb 24 Mar13 Mar 07 Apr27 Mar 21 Apr03 Apr 28 Apr
10 Apr 05 May01 May 26 May29 May 23 Jun12 Jun 07 Jul26 Jun 21 Jul10 Jul 04 Aug24 Jul 18 Aug07 Aug 01 Sep21 Aug 15 Sep04 Sep 29 Sep18 Sep 13 Oct
02 Oct 27 Oct16 Oct 10 Nov30 Oct 24 Nov13 Nov 08 Dec27 Nov 22 Dec11 Dec 05 Jan25 Dec 19 Jan201201 Jan 26 Jan08 Jan 02 Feb15 Jan 09 Feb
22 Jan 16 Feb05 Feb 01 Mar19 Feb 15 Mar04 Mar 29 Mar18 Mar 12 Apr01 Apr 26 Apr15 Apr 10 May29 Apr 24 May13 May 07 Jun27 May 21 Jun10 Jun 05 Jul
Classic Indochina
Explore Indochina
itiNErary... Days 1-2 Bangkok Cruise the khlongs in a longtail
boat and drop in to see the world’s largest reclining Buddha at Wat
Pho. Days 3-4 Vientiane Marvel at the tapered golden stupa
of Pha That Luang before visiting COPE, an Intrepid-supported
organisation which provides essential services to people living with
disabilities. Days 5-7 luang Prabang Cool off by the spectacular
Kuang Si Falls before boarding a riverboat to the revered Pak Ou
Caves, filled with thousands of images of Buddha. Days 8-9 hanoi
See a traditional water-puppet performance and pay respect to
the father of modern Vietnam at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Complex. Day 10 halong Bay Cruise beautiful Halong Bay amid
magnificent limestone karsts. Day 11 hanoi From French-colonial
buildings and graceful boulevards to rich cafe au lait, Vietnam’s
capital has an elegant timelessness. Catch an overnight train
south. Day 12 hue Discover an imperial past while wandering the
great walled citadel, the Nguyen emperors’ tombs and the stately
Thien Mu Pagoda. Days 13-15 hoi an Travel past iridescent rice
paddies and peaceful fishing villages en route to ancient Hoi An.
Days 16-17 ho chi Minh city Experience the buzz of Vietnam’s
economic hub from a slow-moving cyclo. Days 18-19 Phnom
Penh Marvel at the impressive Cu Chi Tunnels on the way to
Cambodia. Once in Phnom Penh, reflect on a tragic past at the
Killing Fields. Days 20-23 siem reap/angkor Wat Believed
to represent the cosmic world, the temples of Angkor boast
extraordinary architectural design. Explore them with a local guide.
itiNErary... Day 1 hanoi Arrive early to explore Hanoi’s
pagoda-studded lakes or jump on a cyclo and take in the sights of
this alluring city of contrasts. Day 2 halong Bay Board a boat for
a scenic cruise through Halong Bay’s emerald waters. Days 3-4
hanoi Explore the fascinating streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter on
a walking tour. Later, opt to learn about Ho Chi Minh’s legacy on
a visit to his mausoleum. Days 5-6 hue See the royal treasures
of Hue on a bicycle or take a boat trip along the Perfume River.
Days 7-9 hoi an Journey over the Hai Van Pass, calling into
China Beach. Explore Hoi An’s ancient streets before heading out
into the countryside on a bicycle ride to discover the rural heart of
Vietnam. Days 10-12 Nha trang Relax on white-sand beaches
or snorkel the offshore reefs of Nha Trang. Days 13-14 ho chi
Minh city Crawl into the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels for a look at
what wartime life was like. Day 15 Phnom Penh Get acquainted
with Cambodia’s capital on a walking tour. Day 16 homestay
Experience Khmer life as a privileged guest at a rural homestay.
Days 17-19 sihanoukville See the wildlife at Ream National Park,
take a trip to charming Kampot or simply while away the hours on
the beach. Day 20 Phnom Penh Pick up some wood carvings
from the stalls of Psar Thmei or head to the eclectic Russian
Market. Day 21 Kompong cham Get a closer look at small-town
Cambodian life. Days 22-24 siem reap/angkor Wat Inspect
the temples of Angkor at Siem Reap. Days 25-26 Bangkok
Celebrate the journey’s end in Thailand’s busy metropolis.
23 days, Bangkok to Siem Reap
26 days, Hanoi to Bangkok
Physical
cultural
Staying on in Hanoi?
Get a glimpse of daily life in this city on a two-day Hanoi City Experience. For details see trip code TVAN.
BasixtriP cODE TVRKC
COmfOrttriP cODE TKKU
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
Experience the • buzz of Bangkok
cool off with a dip • beneath Kuang si Falls
see a water-puppet • show in hanoi
Wander hue’s stately • imperial citadel
take a cyclo tour of • ho chi Minh city
Ponder cambodia’s • turbulent history in Phnom Penh
Physical
cultural
For trip notes, availability and more, enter the trip code at intrepidtravel.com
15
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ntry
Be enchanted by • impressive ta Prohm
Descend into the • cu chi tunnels
uncover Vietnam’s • imperial past in hue
stay overnight on the • waters of halong Bay
Be seduced by the • riverside charms of Phnom Penh
Experience local life on • a Mekong homestay
Barter with locals at • cai Be floating markets
cruise among the • islands off Nha trang
sail the Perfume river•
Pay respects at the • tomb of tu Duc in hue
Photo Competition, Local kids with python, Siem Reap, Cambodia - Sharon Mathews
Photo Competition, Rowing on the Mekong River, Cambodia - Julie Kenny
accOMMODatiON Hotel (15 nts), overnight train (1 nt), overnight boat (1 nt) traNsPOrt Plane, overnight train, overnight boat, minibus, boat, cyclo GrOuP siZE Max 12 MEals 9 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Every Tue, Sat & selected Thu GuaraNtEE Departure guaranteed carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt 383 kg pp per trip NOtEs 1. Combination trip. Please see Trip Notes (Important Notes) for more details. 2. A single supplement is available on this trip. traVEllEr ratiNG 4.81 out of 5
accOMMODatiON Hotel (16 nts), homestay (1 nt), overnight train (1 nt), overnight boat (1 nt) traNsPOrt Plane, overnight train, overnight boat, bus, cyclo GrOuP siZE Max 12 MEals 18 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 6 Dinners BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Selected Mon GuaraNtEE Departure guaranteed carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt 1073 kg pp per trip NOtEs 1.Combination trip. Please see Trip Notes (Important Notes) for more details. 2. Arrival airport to hotel transfers included. Please provide flight details at time of booking. 3. A single supplement is available. traVEllEr ratiNG 4.89 out of 5
start Finish201103 Jan 22 Jan10 Jan 29 Jan17 Jan 05 Feb24 Jan 12 Feb31 Jan 19 Feb07 Feb 26 Feb14 Feb 05 Mar21 Feb 12 Mar28 Feb 19 Mar07 Mar 26 Mar14 Mar 02 Apr21 Mar 09 Apr28 Mar 16 Apr11 Apr 30 Apr
18 Apr 07 May09 May 28 May06 Jun 25 Jun20 Jun 09 Jul04 Jul 23 Jul11 Jul 30 Jul18 Jul 06 Aug25 Jul 13 Aug01 Aug 20 Aug15 Aug 03 Sep29 Aug 17 Sep12 Sep 01 Oct26 Sep 15 Oct03 Oct 22 Oct10 Oct 29 Oct17 Oct 05 Nov
24 Oct 12 Nov31 Oct 19 Nov07 Nov 26 Nov14 Nov 03 Dec21 Nov 10 Dec28 Nov 17 Dec05 Dec 24 Dec12 Dec 31 Dec19 Dec 07 Jan26 Dec 14 Jan201202 Jan 21 Jan09 Jan 28 Jan16 Jan 04 Feb23 Jan 11 Feb30 Jan 18 Feb
06 Feb 25 Feb13 Feb 03 Mar20 Feb 10 Mar27 Feb 17 Mar05 Mar 24 Mar12 Mar 31 Mar19 Mar 07 Apr26 Mar 14 Apr23 Apr 12 May07 May 26 May21 May 09 Jun04 Jun 23 Jun18 Jun 07 Jul
Best of Cambodia & Vietnam
Indochina Experience
itiNErary... Day 1 Bangkok Race around this bustling capital in
the back of a tuk-tuk or take in the bright colours and heady smells
of the Suan Lum Night Bazaar. Days 2-4 siem reap/angkor
Wat Unlock the history of the Khmer Empire while exploring
Angkor’s temples. Be astounded by the Bayon and the crumbling
ruins of Ta Prohm. Angkor Wat is a must and its silhouette at
sunset is spectacular. Days 5-6 Phnom Penh Confront the
grim exhibits at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and visit the
sobering Killing Fields. Later, enjoy a coffee at a modern cafe along
Sisowath Quay. Day 7 chau Doc Watch riverside life pass by while
crossing into Vietnam by boat. Days 8-10 ho chi Minh city
Clamber into the Cu Chi Tunnels to learn what life was like for Viet
Minh soldiers. Take to Ho Chi Minh City’s streets in a slow-going
cyclo. Days 11-12 hoi an Be seduced by the old-world charm
of Hoi An. There’s sumptuous cuisine to sample and shops selling
everything from tailored suits to handmade lanterns. Days 13-14
hue Ascend the aptly named Sea Cloud Pass en route to Hue, the
Vietnamese centre of learning, religion and Nguyen imperialism.
Visit the impressive Imperial Citadel and board a dragonboat to
cruise the waters of the Perfume River. Day 15 hanoi Feast on a
scrumptious breakfast at the inspirational KOTO restaurant before
exploring the capital’s leafy streets. Day 16 halong Bay Glide past
stunning limestone scenery, stopping to explore caves, and stay
overnight on a junk. Days 17-18 hanoi Try to spot a lucky tortoise
in the Old Quarter’s Hoan Kiem Lake, the serene heart of Hanoi.
itiNErary... Days 1-2 Phnom Penh Experience the richness
of Khmer civilisation at the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, then
uncover a darker period in history at S-21 and the Killing Fields.
Days 3-5 siem reap/angkor Wat The first glimpses of Angkor
Wat emerging from the surrounding jungle are truly unforgettable.
Explore these extraordinary ruins and, with the help of a local
guide, unravel the history behind each structure. Days 6-7 ho chi
Minh city Dinner at a local restaurant is a delicious introduction to
Vietnamese cuisine and a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels is a chance
to experience wartime Viet Minh life. Days 8-9 Mekong Delta
Travel along the Mekong and enjoy renowned delta hospitality on
a riverside homestay. Early next morning, visit the floating markets
at Cai Be. Days 10-11 Nha trang Take a cyclo tour around scenic
Nha Trang then swim, snorkel and sample the day’s catch on an
island boat trip. Days 12-14 hoi an Once a major trading port,
Hoi An still retains a distinct old-world feel. Perhaps visit one of the
city’s famous tailors to get a new outfit custom-made. Days 15-16
hue Enter the gateway to Vietnam’s royal past on a tour of the
Imperial Citadel. Cruise the Perfume River to the elegant tomb of
Tu Duc, the last emperor of independent Vietnam. Day 17 hanoi
Explore the Old Quarter and take a cyclo to see an entertaining
water-puppet show. Day 18 halong Bay Sail turquoise waters
past soaring limestone peaks on a leisurely overnight cruise in
Halong Bay. Days 19-20 hanoi The adventure ends among the
cafes, alleyways and bustling streets of Vietnam’s capital.
18 days, Bangkok to Hanoi
20 days, Phnom Penh to Hanoi
Departs every Tuesday & Saturday
Physical
cultural
Physical
cultural
COmfOrttriP cODE TKKHC
OriginaltriP cODE TKSKC
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
Starting in Vietnam?
This trip operates in reverse. Start this Indochina adventure in Hanoi. See trip code TVSKC for details.
Additional information about this destination is available at intrepidtravel.com
16
Mu
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ntry
For trip notes, availability and more, enter the trip code at intrepidtravel.com
accOMMODatiON Hotel (34 nts), homestay (2 nts), overnight train (3 nts) traNsPOrt Overnight train, bus, minivan, boat, ferry GrOuP siZE Max 16 MEals 5 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 2 Dinners BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Selected Tue GuaraNtEE Departure guaranteed carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt 340 kg pp per trip NOtEs Combination Trip. Please see Trip Notes (Important Notes) for more details. traVEllEr ratiNG 4.77 out of 5
Above: Sailing in Halong Bay, Vietnam - Sally Johnson Below: Photo Competition, Monks on balcony, Cambodia - Yayne Chen Xinneng
Best of IndochinaPhysical
cultural
itiNErary... Day 1 Bangkok Sit down to a Singha and curry
in one of the night markets. Days 2-4 siem reap/angkor Wat
Rising out of the Cambodian jungle, the temples of Angkor are
one of South-East Asia’s greatest sights. Day 5 Kompong cham
Pass picturesque rice paddies en route to charming Kompong
Cham. Day 6 Phnom Penh The French legacy of Phnom Penh is
evident in the colonial facades of its buildings. Day 7 homestay
Experience traditional Cambodian hospitality at a rural homestay.
Days 8-10 sihanoukville Lounge on a beach in chilled-out
Sihanoukville or charter a boat to the mangrove forests of Ream
National Park. Day 11 Phnom Penh There’s ample time here to
see the infamous S-21 or the glittering Silver Pagoda. Days 12-13
ho chi Minh city See the sights from a cyclo or be moved by
the displays at the War Remnants Museum. Days 14-15 Mekong
Delta Travel by boat through Vietnam’s ‘rice basket’. Dock on the
Mekong’s bank and be welcomed into the home of a local family.
Days 16-17 Nha trang With mountains, islands, sea and sand,
Nha Trang is the perfect place to relax. Days 18-20 hoi an See
green rice paddies on a cycle through the enchanting countryside.
Days 21-23 hue Absorb imperial history among the royal tombs,
temples and courtyards. Day 24 hanoi Explore the Old Quarter
on a walking tour, then shop for silk or watch a water-puppet
performance. Day 25 halong Bay Majestic limestone karsts,
mysterious caves and succulent seafood make this cruise truly
memorable. Days 26-27 hanoi Chat to locals on the shores of
Hoan Kiem Lake. Day 28 Vinh Have a final bowl of pho before
crossing the border into Laos. Days 29-30 Vientiane Get
acquainted with Vientiane on a walk, then visit its vibrant morning
market or wander through riverside villages. Days 31-33 Vang
Vieng Admire gorgeous limestone crags around this picturesque
town. Days 34-36 luang Prabang Get a sense of this city’s
regal past at the Royal Palace Museum. Days 37-38 Mekong
river Discover the varied facets of village life on a journey up the
Mekong. Disembark in Huay Xai, the ancient crossroad between
the Middle Kingdom and Siam. Days 39-40 chiang Mai Religion,
culture and history come together in enchanting Chiang Mai.
40 days, Bangkok to Chiang Mai DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
BasixtriP cODE TKRDC
Bargain like a local in • Bangkok’s markets
take time to explore • the angkor temples
Delve into Khmer • history in Phnom Penh
Experience rural • village life at a cambodian homestay
Explore sihanoukville’s • tropical surrounds
see the sights of ho chi • Minh city by cyclo
relax on Nha trang’s • beaches
Wander through • hanoi’s Old Quarter
cruise halong Bay•
admire the stunning • limestone crags around Vang Vieng
take a local riverboat • cruise on the Mekong
Discover the charm • of chiang Mai
Bike around Bangkok
Cycle past temples, through backstreets and beside waterways on Urban Adventure’s Bangkok Bike.
start Finish201104 Jan 12 Feb11 Jan 19 Feb18 Jan 26 Feb25 Jan 05 Mar01 Feb 12 Mar08 Feb 19 Mar15 Feb 26 Mar22 Feb 02 Apr01 Mar 09 Apr08 Mar 16 Apr22 Mar 30 Apr
05 Apr 14 May12 Apr 21 May26 Apr 04 Jun10 May 18 Jun24 May 02 Jul07 Jun 16 Jul21 Jun 30 Jul05 Jul 13 Aug19 Jul 27 Aug02 Aug 10 Sep16 Aug 24 Sep30 Aug 08 Oct06 Sep 15 Oct
04 Oct 12 Nov18 Oct 26 Nov25 Oct 03 Dec01 Nov 10 Dec15 Nov 24 Dec22 Nov 31 Dec29 Nov 07 Jan06 Dec 14 Jan13 Dec 21 Jan20 Dec 28 Jan27 Dec 04 Feb201203 Jan 11 Feb
10 Jan 18 Feb17 Jan 25 Feb24 Jan 03 Mar31 Jan 10 Mar07 Feb 17 Mar14 Feb 24 Mar21 Feb 31 Mar28 Feb 07 Apr13 Mar 21 Apr27 Mar 05 May10 Apr 19 May24 Apr 02 Jun08 May 16 Jun
17
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swim at Kuang si Falls•
Enjoy a homestay • on the Mekong
crunch on fried • spiders in skuon
Be awed by a sunset • over the ancient temples of angkor
Wander through • Bangkok’s temples
Enjoy a traditional • home-cooked meal on a homestay
soak up the sun • in sihanoukville
step into the pages of • history in Phnom Penh
soak up the energy of • ho chi Minh city
stroll the atmospheric • streets of hoi an
sail around halong Bay•
Photo Competition, Local kids playing, Laos - David Lazar
Mother and baby, Cambodia
accOMMODatiON Hotel/guesthouse (16 nts), homestay (1nt), overnight train (1 nt) traNsPOrt Plane, overnight train, bus, boat, local bus, jumbo GrOuP siZE Max 12 MEals 6 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 1 Dinner BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Selected Sat GuaraNtEE Departure guaranteed carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt 419 kg pp per trip NOtEs A single supplement is available on this trip traVEllEr ratiNG 4.54 out of 5
accOMMODatiON Hotel (21 nts), homestay (2 nts), overnight train (3 nts) traNsPOrt Overnight train, bus, boat, ferry, bicycle GrOuP siZE Max 16 MEals 5 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 2 Dinners BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Every Tue & selected Fri GuaraNtEE Departure guaranteed carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt 230 kg pp per trip NOtEs Combination Trip. Please see Trip Notes (Important Notes) for more details. traVEllEr ratiNG 4.77 out of 5
start Finish201108 Jan 26 Jan22 Jan 09 Feb05 Feb 23 Feb19 Feb 09 Mar05 Mar 23 Mar
19 Mar 06 Apr25 Jun 13 Jul16 Jul 03 Aug20 Aug 07 Sep17 Sep 05 Oct08 Oct 26 Oct22 Oct 09 Nov
05 Nov 23 Nov19 Nov 07 Dec03 Dec 21 Dec17 Dec 04 Jan31 Dec 18 Jan201207 Jan 25 Jan
21 Jan 08 Feb04 Feb 22 Feb18 Feb 07 Mar03 Mar 21 Mar17 Mar 04 Apr23 Jun 11 Jul
Indochina Trails
Experience Indochina
itiNErary... Days 1-2 Bangkok Take to the khlongs in a
longtail boat for a great introduction to Bangkok. Visit the reclining
Buddha at the city’s oldest temple, Wat Pho, then take an overnight
train heading north. Days 3-4 Vientiane Cross the mighty
Mekong and travel to the Laotian capital. Scour the morning
market for souvenirs, wander the gilded Pha That Luang or simply
kick back with a Beerlao. Days 5-6 Vang Vieng Travel north from
the capital to the sleepy backpacker mecca of Vang Vieng. Chill
out riverside or get out and explore the stunning limestone karst
surroundings. Days 7-9 luang Prabang Peruse the Traditional
Arts and Ethnology Centre then hop into a jumbo - Laos’ version of
a tuk-tuk - and head to the fabulous Kuang Si Falls for an afternoon
dip. Day 10 Pakse Fly to the sleepy southern town of Pakse. Gain
an insight into the lives of the Alak and Katu tribespeople while
travelling through Bolaven Plateau villages. Days 11-12 si Phan
Don Hire a bike to explore the island, famous for its cultivation of
coconut, bamboo and kapok or take a walk to the beautiful Li Phi
Falls. Day 13 homestay Visit a silk weaving centre that provides
jobs for women in the Stung Treng province. Get a taste of rural
island life during a homestay with a local family in Koh Trong.
Days 14-15 Phnom Penh Try fried spiders in Skuon on the way
to Phnom Penh. In the capital, visit S-21 before a sobering visit to
the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. Days 16-19 siem reap/angkor
Wat Discover elaborate temples and architecture. A visit to Ta
Prohm is a must, as is seeing the sunset over Angkor Wat.
itiNErary... Day 1 Bangkok With exotic markets and serene
temples, Bangkok will enchant. Days 2-4 siem reap/angkor
Wat Don’t miss the extraordinary temples of Angkor - they’re just
a short remork ride away. Day 5 Kompong cham Stroll streets to
admire faded European architecture. Day 6 Phnom Penh Arrive
in Cambodia’s chaotic yet charming capital. Day 7 homestay
Experience everyday rural life and a home-cooked meal on a
homestay. Days 8-10 sihanoukville Find a spot on the secluded
beaches that fringe Sihanoukville. Day 11 Phnom Penh Uncover
the country’s tragic history in the bone-chilling Tuol Sleng Museum.
Days 12-13 ho chi Minh city Spend free time visiting the city’s
star attractions, including the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame
Cathedral and the War Remnants Museum. Days 14-15 Mekong
Delta Cruise the mighty Mekong before spending the night with
local friends at a homestay by the water. Days 16-17 Nha trang
Bask on Nha Trang’s golden beaches, take a boat trip to nearby
islands or sample sumptuous seafood. Days 18-20 hoi an Almost
frozen in time, Hoi An will enthral. Venture out on a guided bike
ride to explore the surrounding idyllic countryside. Days 21-23
hue As well as being home to an array of ancient imperial ruins,
Hue is also the centre of Vietnamese Buddhism. Day 24 hanoi
Discover the ancient streets of the Old Quarter on a walking tour.
Day 25 halong Bay Stop by a local initiative that supports people
living with disabilities, then cruise past limestone karsts in Halong
Bay. Days 26-27 hanoi Farewell the adventure back in the capital.
19 days, Bangkok to Siem Reap
27 days, Bangkok to HanoiDeparts every Tuesday
Physical
cultural
Physical
cultural
Bangkok up close...
Arrive early to fully experience this vibrant city on a three-day Bangkok Stopover. See page 42 for details.
BasixtriP cODE TKRNC
OriginaltriP cODE TKSL
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
Additional information about this destination is available at intrepidtravel.com
18
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Enjoy Malay hospitality • on a homestay
count intricately • carved Buddhas in the Pak Ou caves
Photo Competition, Akha women in traditional dress, Thailand - Emily Flowers
Photo Competition, Monkey playing with cow, Laos - Alice Etheridge
accOMMODatiON Hotel/guesthouse (16 nts), homestay (3 nts), overnight train (2 nts) traNsPOrt Overnight train, minibus, ferry, local bus, taxi, songthaew, trishaw, bicycle, elephant GrOuP siZE Max 12 MEals 7 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 3 Dinners BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Selected Sun GuaraNtEE Departure guaranteed carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt 609 kg pp per trip NOtEs 1. Combination Trip. Please see Trip Notes (Important Notes) for further details. 2. Please refer to Trip Notes (Visa) for detailed Thailand visa information. traVEllEr ratiNG 4.86 out of 5
accOMMODatiON Hotel/guesthouse (24 nts), homestay (2 nts), overnight train (2 nts) traNsPOrt Overnight train, minivan, ferry, longtail boat, local bus, taxi, songthaew, trishaw GrOuP siZE Max 12 MEals 7 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Selected Sun GuaraNtEE Departure guaranteed carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt 416 kg pp per trip NOtEs Combination Trip. Please see Trip Notes (Important Notes) for further details. traVEllEr ratiNG Not applicable as this is a new itinerary
start Finish201103 Apr 01 May17 Apr 15 May01 May 29 May22 May 19 Jun05 Jun 03 Jul19 Jun 17 Jul26 Jun 24 Jul
10 Jul 07 Aug24 Jul 21 Aug07 Aug 04 Sep21 Aug 18 Sep04 Sep 02 Oct18 Sep 16 Oct02 Oct 30 Oct16 Oct 13 Nov30 Oct 27 Nov
13 Nov 11 Dec27 Nov 25 Dec11 Dec 08 Jan25 Dec 22 Jan201201 Jan 29 Jan15 Jan 12 Feb29 Jan 26 Feb12 Feb 11 Mar
26 Feb 25 Mar11 Mar 08 Apr25 Mar 22 Apr15 Apr 13 May29 Apr 27 May13 May 10 Jun27 May 24 Jun10 Jun 08 Jul24 Jun 22 Jul
South East Asia Discovery
Singapore to Hanoi
itiNErary... Day 1 singapore Sample tasty treats in Chinatown
or shop for hidden bargains on busy Orchard Road. Day 2 Melaka
Take a trishaw tour through Melaka, a city of interwoven colonial
and Peranakan cultures. Days 3-4 Kuala lumpur Get acquainted
with KL on a city tour then indulge in some of the famous local
cuisine. Days 5-6 homestay Make new friends and learn about
Malay culture at a village homestay. Days 7-8 Penang Discover
local history at the Penang War Museum, enjoy world-famous
cuisine or take the funicular railway up Penang Hill - the views from
the top are superb. Day 9 Nakhon si thammarat Visit Wat Phra
Mahathat, southern Thailand’s biggest temple, before heading to
the famous night market. Days 10-13 Ko samui Laze on white,
sandy beaches and explore exotic marine life on an island getaway.
Go snorkelling or take a cooking class before an overnight journey
to Bangkok. Days 14-15 Bangkok Weave through the khlongs
in a longtail boat and visit the golden reclining Buddha at Wat Pho.
Day 16 sukhothai Arrive in time to take a stroll through the rice
paddies surrounding Thailand’s first capital. Day 17 lampang
Start the day with a bike ride around Sukhothai before travelling to
Lampang. Day 18 homestay Ride an elephant, enjoy northern
hospitality at a homestay and be treated to a khantohk dinner.
Days 19-21 chiang Mai Watch the sunset from Doi Suthep’s
temple, take a cooking class to learn the secret to perfect pad
thai or call in at the Night Bazaar. Day 22 Bangkok The journey
concludes in Bangkok. Why not linger for a while longer?
itiNErary... Day 1 singapore Sip a Singapore Sling or seek out
a bargain on Orchard Road. Day 2 Melaka Admire Chinatown’s
unique Peranakan architecture from the back of a trishaw in this
old Malaysian port town. Days 3-4 Kuala lumpur Absorb the
multicultural mix that is KL on a city tour. Days 5-6 homestay See
how traditional Malays live at a homestay. Days 7-8 Penang Tuck
into local treats at the street stalls on Gurney Drive. Day 9 Nakhon
si thammarat Famous for its shadow puppets, Nakhon Si
Thammarat also has one of southern Thailand’s best night markets.
Days 10-13 Ko samui Dive beneath the surface with a snorkel to
discover the underwater treasures of Ang Thong Marine National
Park. Take the overnight train to the capital. Days 14-16 Bangkok
Glide through Bangkok’s canals on a longtail boat and gaze at
the huge reclining Buddha at Wat Pho. Day 17 chiang Mai
Discover sweeping city views from the temple atop Doi Suthep.
Day 18 chiang Khong Mingle with Mien and White H’mong
villagers. Day 19 Mekong river Take a boat down the Mekong
to experience the slow pace of riverside life. Days 20-22 luang
Prabang See thousands of Buddhas carved into the Pak Ou Caves
and swim under the Kuang Si Falls. Days 23-24 Vang Vieng Call
in at the backpacker hangout of Vang Vieng. Day 25 Vientiane
Head to the riverbank to savour a Mekong sunset. Day 26 lak sao
Revel in a striking montage of mountain, forest and karst scenery
en route to Lak Sao. Days 27-29 hanoi Browse the Old Quarter
and catch a traditional water-puppet show.
22 days, Singapore to Bangkok
29 days, Singapore to Hanoi
Physical
cultural
OriginaltriP cODE TMSVC
OriginaltriP cODE TMSKC
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
take a trishaw • tour of Melaka
snorkel in the balmy • waters of Ko samui
see the reclining • Buddha at Wat Pho
cycle among the • ancient ruins of thailand’s first capital
ride an elephant•
Enjoy thai hospitality • at a village homestay
Physical
cultural
start Finish201102 Jan 23 Jan09 Jan 30 Jan16 Jan 06 Feb23 Jan 13 Feb06 Feb 27 Feb20 Feb 13 Mar06 Mar 27 Mar20 Mar 10 Apr03 Apr 24 Apr10 Apr 01 May17 Apr 08 May24 Apr 15 May01 May 22 May
08 May 29 May15 May 05 Jun22 May 12 Jun29 May 19 Jun05 Jun 26 Jun12 Jun 03 Jul19 Jun 10 Jul26 Jun 17 Jul10 Jul 31 Jul24 Jul 14 Aug07 Aug 28 Aug21 Aug 11 Sep04 Sep 25 Sep18 Sep 09 Oct02 Oct 23 Oct
16 Oct 06 Nov30 Oct 20 Nov13 Nov 04 Dec27 Nov 18 Dec11 Dec 01 Jan25 Dec 15 Jan201201 Jan 22 Jan08 Jan 29 Jan15 Jan 05 Feb22 Jan 12 Feb29 Jan 19 Feb05 Feb 26 Feb12 Feb 04 Mar19 Feb 11 Mar
26 Feb 18 Mar04 Mar 25 Mar11 Mar 01 Apr18 Mar 08 Apr25 Mar 15 Apr01 Apr 22 Apr15 Apr 06 May29 Apr 20 May13 May 03 Jun27 May 17 Jun10 Jun 01 Jul24 Jun 15 Jul
Sublime Halong Bay
Be enchanted by magical limestone karst scenery on Urban Adventure’s day tour to Halong Bay.
For trip notes, availability and more, enter the trip code at intrepidtravel.com
19
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cruise down khlongs • on a longtail boat
take a dip beneath • Kuang si Falls
see a water-puppet • show in hanoi
cruise halong Bay•
relax in the isolated • mountain village of hua shan
Experience traditional • life in chengyang
trek through the • terraces of longji
spend the night in the • rainforest of Khao sok
snorkel in the pristine • waters off Krabi
immerse yourself in • the bustle of Penang
Discover modern • indonesia in Jakarta
Stunning rice terraces of Vietnam
Longtail boat on beach, Thailand
accOMMODatiON Hotel/guesthouse (25 nts), overnight train (2 nts), overnight boat (1 nt) traNsPOrt Overnight train, overnight bus, train, boat, minivan, local bus, taxi, metro, songthaew, tuk-tuk, bicycle GrOuP siZE Max 12 MEals 4 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Selected Sun GuaraNtEE Departure guaranteed carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt 803 kg pp per trip NOtEs Combination Trip. Please see Trip Notes (Important Notes) for further details. traVEllEr ratiNG 4.77 out of 5
accOMMODatiON Hotel/guesthouse (22 nts), basic guesthouse (2nts) basic nature reserve hostel (1 nt), bungalow (2 nts), overnight train (1 nt) traNsPOrt Overnight train, train, minivan, ferry, local bus, taxi, songthaew GrOuP siZE Max 12 MEals 3 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Selected Sat GuaraNtEE Departure guaranteed carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt 893 kg pp per trip NOtEs 1. The flight between Singapore and Jakarta is not included in the trip cost, please see Trip Notes (Important Notes) for more details. 2. Combination Trip. Please see Trip Notes (Important Notes) for more details. traVEllEr ratiNG 4.68 out of 5
start Finish201106 Feb 06 Mar13 Mar 10 Apr20 Mar 17 Apr03 Apr 01 May17 Apr 15 May01 May 29 May
15 May 12 Jun05 Jun 03 Jul10 Jul 07 Aug24 Jul 21 Aug07 Aug 04 Sep21 Aug 18 Sep04 Sep 02 Oct18 Sep 16 Oct
02 Oct 30 Oct16 Oct 13 Nov30 Oct 27 Nov13 Nov 11 Dec27 Nov 25 Dec11 Dec 08 Jan201222 Jan 19 Feb
19 Feb 18 Mar18 Mar 15 Apr15 Apr 13 May29 Apr 27 May13 May 10 Jun27 May 24 Jun10 Jun 08 Jul
start Finish201101 Jan 29 Jan15 Jan 12 Feb05 Feb 05 Mar12 Mar 09 Apr02 Apr 30 Apr16 Apr 14 May30 Apr 28 May14 May 11 Jun
28 May 25 Jun11 Jun 09 Jul25 Jun 23 Jul02 Jul 30 Jul16 Jul 13 Aug30 Jul 27 Aug13 Aug 10 Sep27 Aug 24 Sep10 Sep 08 Oct24 Sep 22 Oct
08 Oct 05 Nov22 Oct 19 Nov05 Nov 03 Dec19 Nov 17 Dec03 Dec 31 Dec17 Dec 14 Jan31 Dec 28 Jan201214 Jan 11 Feb28 Jan 25 Feb
11 Feb 10 Mar25 Feb 24 Mar10 Mar 07 Apr31 Mar 28 Apr14 Apr 12 May28 Apr 26 May12 May 09 Jun26 May 23 Jun09 Jun 07 Jul
Bangkok to Hong Kong
Bangkok to Bali
itiNErary... Days 1-2 Bangkok A longtail boat ride along the
city’s khlongs reveals why Bangkok was once known as the ‘Venice
of the East’. Day 3 chiang Mai Discover sweeping city views
from the temple atop Doi Suthep. Day 4 chiang Khong Catch
a first glimpse of the mighty Mekong and mingle with Mien and
White H’mong villagers. Day 5 Mekong river Take a slow boat
down the Mekong, soaking up the relaxed river lifestyle of Laos.
Days 6-8 luang Prabang See thousands of Buddhas carved into
the limestone cliffs at the Pak Ou Caves before arriving in Luang
Prabang. Days 9-11 Vang Vieng/Vientiane Wander the markets
in Vang Vieng and explore laidback Vientiane. Day 12 lak sao
Revel in striking scenery en route to Lak Sao. Days 13-15 hanoi
Browse the Old Quarter and enjoy a traditional water-puppet
show. Days 16-17 halong Bay Sail around the limestone karsts,
before sharing a hearty seafood lunch on deck. Days 18-19
hua shan Cross the border into China and travel to the isolated
mountain village of Hua Shan. Day 20 liuzhou Nestled on the
banks of the Willow River, Liuzhou features peaceful parks and
impressive pagodas. Days 21-22 chengyang Stop to admire
the waterwheels that lazily flood the paddy fields surrounding the
village. Days 23-24 longji terraces Hike along tiny stone paths
that connect the remote villages of the Zhuang and Yao people.
Days 25-27 yangshuo Cycle through landscapes straight out of
a Chinese painting. Days 28-29 hong Kong Dynamic Hong Kong
offers ancient sights and modern delights.
itiNErary... Days 1-2 Bangkok Satisfy every shopping whim
in Bangkok’s many markets. Days 3-4 Khao sok National Park
Enjoy a tropical jungle walk. Days 5-7 Krabi Swim, sail or snorkel
on Krabi’s idyllic shores. Days 8-9 Penang Chinese temples and
colourful night markets offer a fascinating introduction to Malaysia.
Days 10-11 Kuala lumpur Climb 272 steps up to the Batu Caves
or head out to Bangsar for a taste of KL nightlife. Days 12-13
Melaka Centuries of Chinese, Indian and European influences
furnish Melaka with a wonderful old-world air. Day 14 singapore
Indulge in Singapore’s smorgasbord of cuisines. Day 15 Jakarta
Learn about Indonesia’s history at the National Museum and Purna
Bhakti Pertiwi. Days 16-18 Pangandaran Get close to local
wildlife on a nature walk. Don’t miss the sunset flight of the fruit
bats. Days 19-21 yogyakarta Watch a dance performance, be
impressed by the Hindu temples of Prambanan or visit Borobudur,
the largest Buddhist temple in the world. Day 22 seloliman
Nature reserve Get back to nature at a mountain retreat. Day 23
Mt Bromo Learn about the Javanese tradition of herbal medicine
on an optional walk through the gardens of the nature reserve.
Days 24-25 lovina Up before dawn, cross a spectacular sea of
sand to see sunrise over Mt Bromo. In Lovina, take a boat out to see
dolphins, snorkel or scuba dive along the reef, or visit a Buddhist
monastery. Day 26 tirta Gangga Spend free time swimming in
the Raja’s old stone pools or wander past rice terraces. Days 27-29
ubud Cap off the adventure at a traditional Kecak dance.
29 days, Bangkok to Hong Kong
29 days, Bangkok to Ubud
Physical
cultural
Physical
cultural
BasixtriP cODE TTRIC
OriginaltriP cODE TTSCC
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
Make like a local...
Jump in a tuk-tuk to soak up the sights and sounds of Bangkok on Urban Adventure’s Tuk Tuk Experience.
Additional information about this destination is available at intrepidtravel.com
20
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ntry
For trip notes, availability and more, enter the trip code at intrepidtravel.com
accOMMODatiON Hostel/basic hotel (42 nts), village guesthouse (2 nts), homestay (2 nts), overnight train (9 nts) traNsPOrt Overnight train, train, minibus, boat, ferry, local bus, metro, taxi, bicycle GrOuP siZE Max 16 MEals 4 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 3 Dinners BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Selected Fri GuaraNtEE Departure guaranteed carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt 4004 kg pp per trip NOtEs Combination trip. Please see Trip Notes (Important Notes) for more details. traVEllEr ratiNG 4.70 out of 5
start Finish201101 Apr 26 May27 May 21 Jul24 Jun 18 Aug08 Jul 01 Sep22 Jul 15 Sep
05 Aug 29 Sep19 Aug 13 Oct02 Sep 27 Oct16 Sep 10 Nov30 Sep 24 Nov14 Oct 08 Dec28 Oct 22 Dec
11 Nov 05 Jan25 Nov 19 Jan09 Dec 02 Feb201206 Jan 01 Mar20 Jan 15 Mar03 Feb 29 Mar
17 Feb 12 Apr02 Mar 26 Apr16 Mar 10 May30 Mar 24 May13 Apr 07 Jun27 Apr 21 Jun11 May 05 Jul
Above: Photo Competition, Lion statue at Forbidden City, China - Sam Mariani Below: Photo Competition, Royal Palace garden, Cambodia - Sam Mariani
Beijing to BangkokPhysical
cultural
itiNErary... Days 1-3 Beijing Discover the city’s imperial heart.
Days 4-5 Great Wall Enjoy sweeping views on a hike along the
wall. Days 6-8 Xi’an Eat some street food or head out to see the
Terracotta Warriors. Days 9-10 shanghai Stroll the elegant Bund.
Days 11-12 Xitang Step back in time in Xitang for an overnight
stay in a traditional guesthouse. Days 13-15 yangshuo Try
tai chi, learn some Mandarin or cruise down the Li River before
cycling into the countryside. Days 16-18 longji terraces Stay
in a local village and trek up into the hills to explore the Longji
Valley’s rice terraces. Days 19-20 hong Kong Seek out temples
and secluded beaches among the glittering shopping malls and
markets of busy Hong Kong. Days 21-23 Kunming Hit the streets
in modern Kunming - perhaps take a walk through the Flower and
Bird Market. Days 24-25 Jianshui Bid China goodbye, perhaps
with a tasty barbecue feast. Days 26-29 sapa Cross into Vietnam
and trek into the homeland of the colourful H’mong, Tay and Dzao
people. Days 30-31 hanoi Try Vietnamese coffee to energise
Old Quarter explorations. Day 32 halong Bay Cruise emerald
waters and have lunch overlooking the limestone karsts. Spend
the night on Cat Ba Island. Days 33-34 hanoi Restaurant-hop for
French food in this charming colonial city. Days 35-36 hue Take
a boat trip or cycle to the Royal Tombs to discover the history of
Hue. Days 37-39 hoi an Cycle out into the countryside around
Hoi An. Days 40-42 Nha trang Windsurf, sail or scuba dive in the
divine bay of Nha Trang. Days 43-44 ho chi Minh city Imagine
wartime life within the tunnels of Cu Chi. Day 45 Phnom Penh
Delve into Cambodia’s tumultuous history in the capital. Day 46
homestay Enjoy traditional Khmer warmth and hospitality at
a village homestay. Days 47-49 sihanoukville Splash about
and catch some rays on the sands of Serendipity or Occheuteal
beaches. Day 50 Phnom Penh Pick up a woodcarving from Psar
Thmei or indulge in a massage. Day 51 Kompong cham Visit
the serene Wat Nokor or hire a bike to explore the rural island of
Koh Paen. Days 52-54 siem reap/angkor Wat Don’t miss the
magical ruins of Angkor. Days 55-56 Bangkok Hit the many
markets in the capital in order to snaffle a bargain or two.
56 days, Beijing to Bangkok DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
BasixtriP cODE CBRSC
climb the amazing • Great Wall
Explore Xi’an’s exotic • Muslim Quarter
stroll the elegant • Bund in shanghai
trek into the • homelands of Vietnam’s hilltribes
Discover French • flavours in hanoi
cruise emerald waters • in halong Bay
cycle through the • countryside in hoi an
Enjoy beachside bliss • in Nha trang
crawl down cramped • cu chi tunnels
Discover cambodia’s • tumultuous history
Experience Khmer • culture at a rural homestay
splash out on • the beaches of sihanoukville
Be enchanted by the • angkor ruins
Get busy in • bustling Bangkok
21
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ntry
Wander through • Beijing’s hutongs
trek the Great Wall•
Visit ultra-modern • shanghai
hike along the rice • terraces of longji
Bargain hard in the • shops of hong Kong
Meet the colourful • hilltribes of Vietnam’s north
Explore the evocative • streets of hanoi’s timeless Old Quarter
Keep up with the fast • pace of hanoi
cruise halong Bay•
Experience traditional • life in chengyang
Photo Competition, Local cowboy, Sapa, Vietnam - Kayt Howe
Photo Competition, Women in traditional dress, China - Karen Brown
accOMMODatiON Hostel/basic hotel (21 nts), village guesthouse (2 nts), village homestay (1 nt), overnight train (6 nts) traNsPOrt Overnight train, train, minibus, local bus, metro, taxi GrOuP siZE Max 16 MEals 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Selected Fri GuaraNtEE Departure guaranteed carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt 2217 kg pp per trip NOtEs Combination trip. Please see Trip Notes (Important Notes) for more details. traVEllEr ratiNG 4.70 out of 5
accOMMODatiON Hotel/guesthouse (12 nts), overnight train (1 nt), overnight boat (1 nt) traNsPOrt Overnight train, overnight boat, train, minibus, boat, local bus, metro, taxi, bicycle GrOuP siZE Max 12 MEals 3 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Selected Sun GuaraNtEE Departure guaranteed carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt1071 kg pp per trip traVEllEr ratiNG 4.79 out of 5
start Finish201121 Jan 20 Feb18 Mar 17 Apr01 Apr 01 May22 Apr 22 May06 May 05 Jun27 May 26 Jun03 Jun 03 Jul
24 Jun 24 Jul08 Jul 07 Aug22 Jul 21 Aug05 Aug 04 Sep19 Aug 18 Sep02 Sep 02 Oct16 Sep 16 Oct30 Sep 30 Oct14 Oct 13 Nov
28 Oct 27 Nov11 Nov 11 Dec25 Nov 25 Dec09 Dec 08 Jan23 Dec 22 Jan201206 Jan 05 Feb20 Jan 19 Feb03 Feb 04 Mar
17 Feb 18 Mar02 Mar 01 Apr16 Mar 15 Apr30 Mar 29 Apr13 Apr 13 May27 Apr 27 May11 May 10 Jun25 May 24 Jun08 Jun 08 Jul
start Finish201102 Jan 16 Jan20 Feb 06 Mar27 Mar 10 Apr03 Apr 17 Apr17 Apr 01 May01 May 15 May15 May 29 May
29 May 12 Jun19 Jun 03 Jul10 Jul 24 Jul24 Jul 07 Aug07 Aug 21 Aug21 Aug 04 Sep04 Sep 18 Sep11 Sep 25 Sep18 Sep 02 Oct
25 Sep 09 Oct02 Oct 16 Oct16 Oct 30 Oct30 Oct 13 Nov13 Nov 27 Nov27 Nov 11 Dec11 Dec 25 Dec25 Dec 08 Jan2012
01 Jan 15 Jan05 Feb 19 Feb04 Mar 18 Mar01 Apr 15 Apr15 Apr 29 Apr29 Apr 13 May13 May 27 May27 May 10 Jun10 Jun 24 Jun
Beijing to Hanoi
Hanoi to Hong Kong
itiNErary... Days 1-3 Beijing Wander traditional hutongs - a
world away from the city’s imperial splendours. Days 4-5 Great
Wall Walk a remote section of the wall and take in spectacular
views of the countryside. Stay overnight in a nearby guesthouse.
Days 6-8 Xi’an Admire the famed 2,200-year-old Terracotta
Warriors, cycle the city walls or stroll the streets of the Muslim
Quarter. Days 9-10 shanghai Explore the Yuyuan Bazaar or take
in views of the Bund from across the river in Pudong. Days 11-12
Xitang Visit ancient villas and stroll cobblestone streets before
staying in a traditional guesthouse. Days 13-15 yangshuo To
see the best of this beautiful region, why not cycle around the
countryside, taking in views of the spectacular limestone peaks?
Days 16-18 longji terraces Explore cascades of rice terraces
that cling to the sides of towering slopes. Days 19-20 hong Kong
Be prepared for some fast-paced action in Hong Kong. Cruise the
harbour, take the cable car to Victoria Peak or check out the local
nightlife. Days 21-23 Kunming With a temperate climate and
many shopping malls, the city of Kunming is a great place to shop.
Days 24-25 Jianshui Ride a public bus to Jianshui and then
join the locals for a delicious barbecue dinner. Days 26-29 sapa
Cross the border to Vietnam and discover a strikingly different
countryside. Starting at the old French hill station of Sapa, trek
through extraordinary rural mountainscapes that are home to the
colourful H’mong, Tay and Dzao people. Days 30-31 hanoi Jump
back into the fast pace of city life in ambient Hanoi.
itiNErary... Day 1 hanoi French architecture and tree-lined
boulevards contrast with age-old traditions and beautiful Buddhist
temples in Hanoi. Days 2-3 halong Bay Sail around the limestone
karsts and explore stalactite-encrusted caves, before sharing a
fresh seafood lunch on deck. Spend one night at sea, then head to
jungle-clad Cat Ba, one of the few inhabited islands in Halong Bay.
Discover fishing villages, trek through a national park or sip a beer
on the beach. Days 4-5 hua shan Journey to the isolated Chinese
mountain village of Hua Shan. Choose to visit a huge cliff-face
fresco painted by the ancestors of the Zhuang people some 2,000
years ago. Day 6 liuzhou Nestled on the banks of the Willow
River, Liuzhou features peaceful parks and the impressive Baota
Shan seven-storey pagodas. Days 7-8 chengyang Stop to admire
the waterwheels that lazily flood the paddy fields surrounding
the village. Explore on foot, crossing the exquisite Wind and Rain
Bridge. Days 9-10 longji terraces Soaring high into the sky,
the verdant green Longji rice terraces are an awesome sight. Hike
along the tiny stone paths that connect the remote villages of the
Zhuang and Yao people. Days 11-13 yangshuo Embark on a
cycle through landscapes straight out of a classic Chinese painting.
Ancient villages, delicate bridges, local markets and dramatic
countryside make Yangshuo a real trip highlight. Days 14-15
hong Kong Energetic Hong Kong is an exhilarating fusion of East
and West. Shop up a storm, sample local delicacies from market
street stalls and see the harbour at night.
31 days, Beijing to Hanoi
15 days, Hanoi to Hong Kong
Physical
cultural
Physical
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OriginaltriP cODE TBSV
BasixtriP cODE CBRLC
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
This is a fabulous trip with one scenic day after another. Walking the beautiful rice terraces will be a day I will remember and recount for many years to come.
Peggy Bell, Australia Travelled on the TBSV
Additional information about this destination is available at intrepidtravel.com
22
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Hong Kong to BangkokPhysical
cultural
itiNErary... Day 1 hong Kong Kick-start the adventure among
the big city lights of Hong Kong. Days 2-4 Kunming Explore
this modern city, then perhaps visit the Tang dynasty pagodas or
the Buddhist Yuantong Temple. Days 5-6 Jianshui Admire the
traditional mansions, lush gardens and ornate temples of Jianshui.
Days 7-10 sapa In Vietnam, trek to a rural village homestay,
passing magnificent mountain scenery. Days 11-12 hanoi Spend
time strolling the tree-lined avenues of Vietnam’s northern capital,
a quintessentially Asian city with a decidedly European air. Day 13
halong Bay Enjoy a cruise on the beautiful waters of Halong Bay.
Soak up the sun, swim, explore caves and devour a fresh seafood
lunch. Days 14-15 hanoi Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum or
relax with some sweet, rich coffee at a streetside cafe. Days 16-17
hue Uncover a glorious imperial past within Hue’s royal tombs
and temples. The impressive Imperial Citadel is definitely worth a
visit. Days 18-20 hoi an Enjoy the old-world air of this historic
port and jump on a bike to explore its picturesque surroundings.
Days 21-23 Nha trang Swim, snorkel or scuba dive in the crystal
clear waters of Nha Trang’s sublime, sheltered bay. Days 24-25
ho chi Minh city Get an insight into the war amid the trap doors
and tunnels of Cu Chi. Day 26 Phnom Penh Visit the harrowing
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum or see the gleaming Silver Pagoda,
a symbol of Cambodia’s brighter times. The Art Deco-style Central
Market is a top spot for browsing local wares. Day 27 homestay
Experience everyday village life during a homestay. Days 28-30
sihanoukville Chill by the beach or perhaps take a boat trip
out to see the coastal mangroves of Ream National Park. Day 31
Phnom Penh Wander past the colonial-style buildings or enjoy
crunchy baguettes and the fresh breeze at a cafe on Sisowath
Quay. Day 32 Kompong cham Experience the slower pace and
tranquillity of small-town life evident in the tobacco and sesame
cottage industries that dominate this area. Days 33-35 siem
reap/angkor Wat Be sure to see the temples of Angkor, an
impressive testament to the might of the Khmer era. Days 36-37
Bangkok Why not end the journey with a final Thai meal or a
traditional massage back in bustling Bangkok?
shop up a storm in • hong Kong
Explore the modern • charms of urban Kunming
Meet the locals in • ancient Jianshui
trek through sapa’s • amazing mountain scenery
soak up stunning karst • scenery in halong Bay
Delve into imperial • history in hue
swim in Nha trang’s • sublime bay
Ponder cambodia’s • past in Phnom Penh
Enjoy warm • hospitality during a traditional homestay
37 days, Hong Kong to Bangkok DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
accOMMODatiON Basic hotel/village guesthouse/hostel (29 nts), homestay (2 nts), overnight train (5 nts) traNsPOrt Overnight train, train, minibus, ferry, boat, local bus, metro, taxi GrOuP siZE Max 16 MEals 4 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 3 Dinners BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Selected Wed GuaraNtEE Departure guaranteed carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt 2646 kg pp per trip traVEllEr ratiNG 4.70 out of 5
Above: Working in rice fields, Thailand Below: Photo Competition, Local dinner, Cambodia - Anne Hallgreen
BasixtriP cODE CBRBC
start Finish201105 Jan 10 Feb12 Jan 17 Feb16 Feb 24 Mar02 Mar 07 Apr23 Mar 28 Apr20 Apr 26 May18 May 23 Jun15 Jun 21 Jul
29 Jun 04 Aug13 Jul 18 Aug27 Jul 01 Sep10 Aug 15 Sep24 Aug 29 Sep07 Sep 13 Oct21 Sep 27 Oct05 Oct 10 Nov19 Oct 24 Nov02 Nov 08 Dec
16 Nov 22 Dec30 Nov 05 Jan14 Dec 19 Jan28 Dec 02 Feb201211 Jan 16 Feb25 Jan 01 Mar08 Feb 15 Mar22 Feb 29 Mar07 Mar 12 Apr
21 Mar 26 Apr04 Apr 10 May18 Apr 24 May02 May 07 Jun16 May 21 Jun30 May 05 Jul13 Jun 19 Jul27 Jun 02 Aug
I had an amazing time on this trip. The homestay was incredible, as was the food. The guides were so helpful and friendly. What an amazing part of the world!
Josephine Lennie United Kingdom Travelled on the CBRBC
For trip notes, availability and more, enter the trip code at intrepidtravel.com
23
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hike the Great Wall•
ride on the world’s • highest railway
soak up the spiritual • atmosphere of lhasa
hike to Everest • Base camp
Get immersed in • ancient Varanasi
Be left breathless • by the taj Mahal
Explore Beijing’s • bustling backstreets
Enjoy an overnight • stay with nomads
Join the locals in a • banya for an end-of-day steam
ride the legendary • trans-siberian railway
stop by lenin’s • Mausoleum in Moscow’s red square
Experience the • grandeur of st Petersburg’s museums
Hiking the Great Wall, China - Anzhela Buch
St Basil’s Cathedral, Red Square, Moscow, Russia - Sergey Borisov
accOMMODatiON Hotel/guesthouse (24 nts), basic hotel or tent camp - seasonal (1 nt), deluxe air-conditioned tent/cottage (2 nts), campsite (1 nt), overnight train (3 nts) traNsPOrt Overnight train, private bus, private jeep, boat, canoe, local bus, subway, taxi, auto rickshaw, cycle rickshaw GrOuP siZE Max 12 MEals 3 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 1 Dinner BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Selected Wed GuaraNtEE Subject to min 4 carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt 2285 kg pp per trip traVEllEr ratiNG 4.76 out of 5
accOMMODatiON Hostel (7 nts), nomad camp (1 nt), homestay (2 nts), overnight train (7 nts) traNsPOrt Overnight train, minivan, local bus, metro, taxi GrOuP siZE Max 16 MEals 5 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Dinners BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Selected Mon from Jun-Sep GuaraNtEE Subject to min 4 carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt 664 kg pp per trip traVEllEr ratiNG 4.50 out of 5
start Finish201106 Apr 07 May20 Apr 21 May04 May 04 Jun
18 May 18 Jun17 Aug 17 Sep31 Aug 01 Oct14 Sep 15 Oct28 Sep 29 Oct
12 Oct 12 Nov26 Oct 26 Nov09 Nov 10 Dec23 Nov 24 Dec
201204 Apr 05 May16 May 16 Jun
Beijing to Delhi
Tracks to Russia
itiNErary... Days 1-2 Beijing Discover the monumental
wonder of the Great Wall. Day 3 train to the roof of the
World Admire stunning landscapes on one of the world’s greatest
train journeys. Days 4-7 lhasa/Nam-tso lake Enjoy a cooking
class and visit Potala Palace. Day 8 samye Spend the night in
the shadow of Tibet’s oldest monastery. Day 9 Gyantse Drive
across the Kamba Pass and make the pilgrim circuit at Pelkor
Chode Monastery. Days 10-11 shigatse Join pilgrims at the
Tashilhunpo Monastery and browse the Shigatse Bazaar. Day 12
sakya Marvel at art in the Sakya Monastery. Day 13 Everest
National Park Discover one of the world’s highest monasteries,
Rongphu before hiking up to Everest Base Camp. Day 14 tingri
Journey through scenic mountain passes to the tiny town of
Tingri. Day 15 Zhangmu As the Tibetan Plateau abruptly ends,
the harsh landscape gives way to lush green valleys. Day 16
Dhulikhel Across the Nepalese border, enjoy panoramic views of
the Himalayas. Days 17-19 Kathmandu Wander the atmospheric
streets of Kathmandu. Days 20-22 chitwan National Park Spot
exotic wildife. Day 23 lumbini Visit the site of Buddha’s birth.
Day 24 Varanasi India’s holy city is a hive of religious life and
colour. Day 25 river Ganges Boat trip Sail down the Ganges
and camp on the riverbank. Days 26-27 Varanasi Witness an
evocative candle flower ceremony. Days 28-29 Orchha Admire
stone temples and palaces. Day 30 agra Visit the iconic Taj Mahal.
Days 31-32 Delhi Explore India’s exhilarating capital.
itiNErary... Days 1-2 Beijing Begin this epic rail adventure in
bustling Beijing, home to Tiananmen Square and the fascinating
Forbidden City. Arriving in Beijing early? Perhaps take a trip to visit
the iconic Great Wall of China. Days 3-6 ulaanbaatar/Nomad
camp Explore Ulaanbaatar’s eclectic mix of shops and cafes.
Then travel to a national park where wild Mongolian horses roam.
Spend the night with a nomad family in their traditional ger tent.
Days 7-10 ulan ude/lake Baikal Unwind in Ulan Ude, a hillside
Buryat city that is home to numerous Buddhist temples. Hike along
the shores of the world’s deepest lake. Follow the locals’ lead and
after enjoying the great outdoors, hit the banya for an end-of-day
steam. Days 11-12 trans-siberian railway Travel through five
time zones on a journey on the Trans-Siberian Railway - the world’s
longest train line. Take in the dramatic scenery, ranging from dense
taiga to vast industrial Russian cities. Days 13-14 Kungur Arrive
in the provincial town of Kungar and join a local volunteer project.
Days 15-16 Moscow Russia’s capital offers a treasure trove of
sights, from the endless array of jewels and weapons in the Kremlin
Armoury, to the iconic Red Square and Lenin’s Mausoleum. See
sunlight glinting off golden-domed buildings, orthodox churches
sitting squarely alongside Soviet icons and piles of trinkets at the
Izmaylovo Market. Days 17-18 st Petersburg Get lost among
the artistic treasures and imperial interiors of the State Hermitage
Museum or escape the tourist trail on a walking tour of the
backstreets. Either way, this city is sure to delight.
32 days, Beijing to Delhi
18 days, Beijing to St Petersburg
Physical
cultural
Physical
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BasixtriP cODE CBRA
OriginaltriP cODE CBSXC
Combination Trip…This trip combines the itineraries of our Mountains & Monasteries trip with our Kathmandu to Delhi trip. See trip code CBST on page 86 for a full map and further itinerary details of the first half of this trip, and trip code HHSD on page 103 for full itinerary and map details of the second half of this epic adventure.
Additional information about this destination is available at intrepidtravel.com
24
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roam the iconic • Great Wall of china
Overnight in a • traditional ger
take a ride on the • trans-siberian railway
admire the opulence • of st Petersburg
Explore the ancient • wonders of Beijing
see the terracotta • Warriors in Xi’an
Follow the silk road • through central asia
Quench your thirst • with some fermented mare’s milk
Pick up a bargain at • the Kashgar bazaar
Experience local • culture at homestays
View the petroglyphs • of cholpon ata
Physical
cultural
Photo Competition, Woman making curds, Ikh Uul, Mongolia - Adam Spicer
Photo Competition, Meeting the locals, Samarkand, Uzbekistan - Anne Frigon
accOMMODatiON Hotel (10 nts), guesthouse (2 nts), ger camp (1 nt), overnight train (7 nts) traNsPOrt Overnight train, private bus, boat, ferry, local bus, metro, taxi, bicycle GrOuP siZE Max 12 MEals 10 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 4 Dinners BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Every Mon from Apr-Oct GuaraNtEE Subject to min 4 carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt 775 kg pp per trip traVEllEr ratiNG 4.57 out of 5
accOMMODatiON Hotel (14 nts), guesthouse/homestay (4 nts), yurt (3 nts), overnight train (4 nts) traNsPOrt Overnight train, train, minibus, local bus, metro, taxi GrOuP siZE Max 12 MEals 14 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 6 Dinners BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Selected Fri from May-Sep GuaraNtEE Subject to min 4 carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt 959 kg pp per trip traVEllEr ratiNG 4.81 out of 5
Silk Road Journey
Trans-Siberian & Mongolia
itiNErary... Days 1-3 Beijing The fascinating city of Beijing
is the ideal place to start this journey. Uncover the secrets of the
Forbidden City, walk through Tiananmen Square and enjoy a day
at the amazing Great Wall of China. Days 4-7 ulaanbaatar/Ger
camp Cross the border and journey into the grasslands of Genghis
Khan. Enjoy a quintessential Mongolian experience on an overnight
stay in a traditional ger. Day 8 trans-Mongolian railway Take
a train ride north through the vast steppe of Mongolia towards
Siberia, the heart of Russia. Days 9-11 ulan ude/lake Baikal
Enjoy feasting on local food while on an overnight homestay on
the shores of sparkling Lake Baikal. Head into charming Ulan Ude,
home to the Siberian Buryat people. Days 12-13 trans-siberian
railway The route of the famed Trans-Siberian Railway covers vast
terrain, crossing the taiga and travelling through five time zones
on its way from Asia to Europe. Days 14-15 Kungur Break up the
journey with a stop in tranquil Kungur, home to an onion-domed
skyline and an abundance of beautiful natural landscapes. See one
of the world’s biggest ice caves which is permanently frozen all year
round. Days 16-18 Moscow Wander the streets of this exciting
city and take in the famous Red Square, St Basil’s Cathedral and the
magnificent Kremlin - a name that conjures up images of the glory
of tsars and the power of the Soviets. Days 19-21 st Petersburg
The elegant city of St Petersburg is the final, breathtaking
destination on this epic cross-continental journey. Don’t miss
seeing the art and architectural treasures that this city possesses.
itiNErary... Days 1-3 Beijing Visit the Forbidden City,
Tiananmen Square and the Great Wall. Days 4-5 Xi’an Marvel at
the ancient Terracotta Warriors. Day 6 silk road railway Make
friends with local Uyghurs and watch the desert unfold on this
spectacular journey. Days 7-8 turpan Flanked by the Flaming
Mountains of Xinjiang, this lush oasis is a popular stop for travellers.
Days 9-10 Kashgar Experience the bustle of the Sunday bazaar,
a hub for traders from all over Central Asia. Day 11 tash rabat
Stay overnight in a traditional yurt. Day 12 song-Kol lake Watch
nomadic herders graze their flocks on lush alpine pastures. Day 13
Kochkor Learn the art of felt making from local women. Day 14
Bokonbayevo Travel to this town on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul.
With pristine, blue water surrounded by snow-capped peaks, it’s
breathtaking. Day 15 Karakol The mountainous frontier town
of Karakol is full of trees, orchards and cute, traditional cottages.
Day 16 tamchy The stone petroglyphs of Cholpon Ata are a
fascinating find. Day 17 Bishkek Explore Kyrgyzstan’s leafy capital.
Days 18-19 tashkent Wander around the amazing sights of
Tashkent. Days 20-21 samarkand This city is one of Central
Asia’s oldest and most attractive. Day 22 shakhrisabz Make new
friends and feast on traditional Uzbek cuisine at a homestay in
leafy Shakhrisabz. Days 23-24 Bukhara Marvel at the minarets
and medressas in this bustling Silk Road destination. Days 25-26
tashkent Narrow lanes, mosques and Soviet architecture give the
Uzbek capital an absorbing, multicultural atmosphere.
21 days, Beijing to St Petersburg
26 days, Beijing to Tashkent
Departs every Monday from April - October
Physical
cultural
Winter contrasts
Want to see this unique region in the colder months? This trip has a new winter itinerary available!
OriginaltriP cODE CBSK
OriginaltriP cODE CBSU
start Finish201113 May 07 Jun27 May 21 Jun10 Jun 05 Jul
24 Jun 19 Jul08 Jul 02 Aug22 Jul 16 Aug05 Aug 30 Aug19 Aug 13 Sep
02 Sep 27 Sep16 Sep 11 Oct30 Sep 25 Oct201217 May 11 Jun
31 May 25 Jun14 Jun 09 Jul28 Jun 23 Jul
For trip notes, availability and more, enter the trip code at intrepidtravel.com
25
Overlan
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Explore the modernity • of ashgabat
shop at central • asia’s largest open-air market
Experience living • history in Bukhara
Fall under the romantic • spell of samarkand
spend an memorable • night in a traditional nomad’s yurt
Pick up a soviet • souvenir in tashkent
ride with cheerful • shepherds in hill country
take in alpine vistas • on a trek through stunning Kyrgyzstan
reflect on the • adventure in delightful Bishkek
Marvel at the Blue • Mosque and aya sofya in istanbul
Explore the cave cities • of cappadocia
Discover hidden • delights in iran’s capital
admire the beauty • of Esfahan
Browse the wares at • central asia’s largest open-air market
Experience nomad • hospitality on a desert yurt stay
Marvel at intricately • decorated silk road fortresses
Discover the • beautiful monuments of samarkand
Photo Competition, Local woman making silk, Margilon, Uzbekistan - Anne Frigon
Local man at mosque, Uzbekistan
accOMMODatiON Hotel (17 nts), bushcamp (7 nts), yurt (3 nts), homestay (2 nts) traNsPOrt Overland vehicle GrOuP siZE Max 21 MEals 12 Breakfasts, 12 Lunches, 12 Dinners BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Selected Sat & Sun GuaraNtEE Subject to min 4 carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt 816 kg pp per trip NOtEs 1. Combination trip. Please see Trip Notes (Important Notes) for more details. 2. This trip also runs in reverse, see trip code KDOIC. traVEllEr ratiNG 4.66 out of 5
accOMMODatiON Hotel (27 nts), yurt (1 nt), bushcamp (5 nts), campsite (5 nts), homestay (1 nt) traNsPOrt Overland vehicle GrOuP siZE Max 21 MEals 18 Breakfasts, 15 Lunches, 17 Dinners BuDGEt See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEParts Selected Tue, Wed, Thu & Sun GuaraNtEE Subject to min 4 carBON EMissiONs OFFsEt 1088 kg pp per trip NOtEs Combination trip. Please see Trip Notes (Important Notes) for more details. This trip also runs in reverse, see trip code KDONC. traVEllEr ratiNG 4.67 out of 5
start Finish201101 May 30 May29 May 27 Jun
201229 Apr 28 May03 Jun 02 Jul
start Finish201107 Apr 15 May05 May 12 Jun
201205 Apr 13 May10 May 17 Jun03 Jun 11 Jul
Central Silk Road
Istanbul to Tashkent
itiNErary... Days 1-3 turkmenistan Journey to mystical
Turkmenistan and explore the modernity of Ashgabat. Peruse the
ornate carpets, jewellery and crafts on display at the Tolkuchka
Bazaar - the largest open-air market in Central Asia. Travel
through the vast remote beauty of the Karakum Desert and
visit isolated communities that inhabit this harsh environment
before overlanding to the town of Konye-Urgench. Days 4-15
uzbekistan Be enchanted by the hypnotic, cultural wonders of
Uzbekistan, from the fascinating history of Khiva and the beauty of
Bukhara, to the splendour of Samarkand and the urbane charms
of Tashkent. Visits to museums, mosques, bazaars and fortresses
uncover the rich heritage and traditions of this spellbinding land.
An overnight stay in a yurt offers a unique chance to admire
spectacular desert landscapes. Days 16-17 Kazakhstan Be
enchanted by stunning scenery, colourful attractions and the
endearing people of Kazakhstan. Journey into the pristine
wilderness of the Aksu-Dzhabagly Nature Reserve, a mountainous
haven which is home to a diverse range of wildlife including
bears, ibex, deer, eagles and falcons. Enjoy local hospitality on
an overnight village homestay. Days 18-30 Kyrgyzstan From
rocky terrain to lush valleys, icy glaciers and blue lakes, the national
parks of Kyrgyzstan are an ever-changing reminder of the beauty
of nature. Trek through the wilds of this remote region, visit small
villages, meet nomadic mountain shepherds, sleep in yurts and
relax in the picturesque surroundings of Bishkek.
itiNErary... Days 1-8 turkey Fall in love with the magic of
Turkey. In Istanbul, have your fortune told in atmospheric Taksim
Square, bargain up a storm in the Grand Bazaar, marvel at the
beauty of the Blue Mosque or admire the imposing Aya Sofya.
Discover the beautiful landscapes of Cappadocia’s breathtaking
Goreme Valley, with its underground cities and caves. Overland
through Eastern Turkey, along ancient trade routes on the journey
towards the Iranian border. Days 9-23 iran Discover Iran - a nation
of contrasts with a fascinating fusion of old and new, tradition
and modernity. Hang out in dynamic Tehran, trawl the souqs and
bazaars of enigmatic Esfahan, admire ornate mosques, explore
ancient ruins, stay in traditional hotels and visit remote desert
village communities while overlanding through this hypnotic
and historic region. Days 24-28 turkmenistan Cross into
Turkmenistan and be amazed by the diversity and beauty of this
captivating country. Get caught up in the haggling at Central Asia’s
largest open-air market, camp overnight in the desert, journey
through fertile green valleys and pay a visit to the unique town
of Konye-Urgench. Days 29-40 uzbekistan Learn about the
compelling history of Uzbekistan, evident on visits to ruined cities,
fortresses, mosques and museums. Wander through colourful
bazaars selling everything from camels to carpets, stay in traditional
yurts, meet proud locals living a traditional nomadic lifestyle,
journey through harsh desert landscapes and enter fascinating,
emerging cities that are just waiting to be explored.
30 days, Ashgabat to Bishkek
40 days, Istanbul to Tashkent
Physical
cultural
Physical
culturalOVErlanDBasixtriP
cODE EDOYC
OVErlanDBasixtriP cODE KDOXC
See page 26 for full map
See page 26 for full map
Additional information about this destination is available at intrepidtravel.com
See our website for more details: intrepidtravel.com
Istanbul - Ashgabat 26 days (KDOA reverse)
Ashgabat - Tashkent15 days (KDOO reverse)
Tashkent - Bishkek16 days (KDOC reverse)
Kashgar - Xi’an22 days (CDOL reverse)
Luang Prabang - Bangkok18 days (TDOL reverse)
Xi’an - Luang Prabang29 days (TDOC reverse)
Xi’an - Beijing17 days (CDOA reverse)
overland tripsThis map outlines some of our favourite Overland adventures. Unlike Small Group travel, overlanding means travelling in purpose-built vehicles and often camping in tents. On these adventures you’re more than just a passenger, you’re part of the crew!
Combine two, three or more to create your ultimate Asian adventure. Just match the colour bars to the map to see where the road may take you…
KDOT
KHOH
KDOW
CDOK
TDOZ
CDOC
CDOB
For India & Nepal Overland itineraries, see page 28 & 29.
Overlanding through Central Asia - Chris Blade
Discover a land of vast, open landscapes,
timeless treasures and ancient civilisations
on this adventure from Kyrgyzstan to
China along the legendary Silk Road. Travel
through changing scenery - from the heights
of dramatic mountains, through arid deserts
and into lush countryside. Discover places
seldom visited and get to know the wild
landscapes, secluded oases, fascinating
cultures and welcoming people who inhabit
this legendary route along the Silk Road.
22 days, Kashgar to Xi’an
Kashgar to Xi’an (CDOL reverse)
triP cODE CDOK
Journey through remote China and Laos
on this adventure beyond the tourist trail.
Head off from Luang Prabang and explore
the remote Nam Ha protected area. Pass
through tropical Laos and enter the surreal
landscapes of southern China. Journey
through Yunnan and Sichuan and discover a
fascinating mix of people on the way to Xi’an.
See breathtaking sights, from the Terracotta
Warriors to Tiger Leaping Gorge on this
unforgettable cross-country trip.
29 days, Luang Prabang to Xi’an
Luang Prabang to Xi’an (CDOC reverse)
triP cODE TDOC
Get swept up in the mysticism of China
and Inner Mongolia. Walk along secluded
stretches of the Great Wall, admire the
Terracotta Warriors, relax in China’s regal
gardens and visit a unique ger camp in
China’s Inner Mongolian province. For the
chance to witness the unique cultures,
landscapes and cuisines that make up
modern-day China, jump on board this
Overland adventure discovering the magic,
mystery and spirit of China.
17 days, Xi’an to Beijing
China & Inner Mongolia (CDOX reverse)
triP cODE CDOB
27
Overlan
d
Choose your Asia Overland adventure…
Discover hidden treasures on this exciting
adventure from the vivid markets of Istanbul,
through intoxicating Iran, to futuristic
Ashgabat. See mysterious churches, roam
across the mountainous landscapes, and
encounter fabulous Islamic architecture,
crumbling Persian ruins and one of the oldest
towns in the world. This trip offers the unique
opportunity to travel through a region rich in
untamed beauty, history and tradition - see it
now and be changed forever.
26 days, Istanbul to Ashgabat
Turkic & Persian Splendours (KDOA reverse)
triP cODE KDOT
Uncover the gems of Central Asia on this
adventure from the modern architecture of
Ashgabat, through the vast Karakum and
Red deserts to the Uzbek capital of Tashkent.
Travel into the ancient walled city of Khiva,
across the dunes of Central Asia, stopping in
Samarkand, the Silk Road’s most romantic
destination. Get to know the welcoming
people that call these unique nations home,
sleep in a yurt and discover the magic of
century-old cities on this epic adventure.
15 days, Ashgabat to Tashkent
Samarkand & Tamerlane’s Testament (KDOO reverse)
triP cODE KDOH
Embark on a grand adventure through
Thailand, Cambodia and Laos. Kick off the fun
in buzzing Bangkok, then set off through the
remote Isan region, visiting small villages and
taking in the lesser-known sights along the
way. Cross into Cambodia, calling by Angkor
Wat, before heading into southern Laos,
one of the most welcoming countries on
earth. Discover the fast-paced cities, iconic
sights and delicious cuisine that make up this
beautiful corner of South-East Asia.
18 days, Bangkok to Luang Prabang
Bangkok to Luang Prabang (TDOZ reverse)
triP cODE TDOL
Welcome to one of the world’s most
stunning, wild and welcoming nations.
Rugged and spectacular, Kyrgyzstan is a
land rich with scenic mountain passes, vast
nomadic traditions and laidback hospitality.
Admire glassy lakes, imposing mountains
and spectacular glacier-studded canyons -
a reminder of the immense beauty of nature.
Make friends with locals, camp among
shepherds, sleep in a yurt and call into small
towns on this journey to Bishkek.
16 days, Tashkent to Bishkek
Mountain Kingdoms of Kyrgyzstan (KDOC reverse)
triP cODE KDOW
Additional information about this destination is available at intrepidtravel.com
Explore the wilds of western China, from
its vast deserts to its impressive mountain
ranges. Travel the legendary Silk Route across
the Taklimakan Desert, see the Great Wall of
China and continue on to Beijing. Journey
along the Tibetan Plateau and experience
the ancient Tibetan way of life. From remote
oases through to iconic sights such as the
Terracotta Warriors and the Forbidden City,
this trip showcases the many diverse faces,
places and people of China.
38 days, Kashgar to Beijing
Kashgar to Beijing (CDOT reverse)
triP cODE CDOS
Chennai - Kathmandu29 days (HDOY reverse)HDOE
Delhi - Kathmandu17 days
HDOG
Mumbai - Chennai24 days (HDOU reverse)HDOB
Delhi - Mumbai16 days (HDOX reverse)HDOF
Kathmandu - Delhi 16 days (HDOH reverse)
HDOD
overland tripsThis map outlines some of our favourite Overland Adventures. Unlike Small Group travel, overlanding means travelling in purpose-built vehicles and often camping in tents. On these adventures you’re more than just a passenger you’re part of the crew!
Combine two, three or more to create your ultimate India & Nepal adventure. Just match the colour bars to the map to see where the road may take you…