Up to 25% off!

Up to 25% off!

Backpacking Asia

Ready to eat, explore, and adventure through Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia? This epic 38-day trip hits Southeast Asia’s ultimate highlights. Experience Bangkok’s energy, Hanoi’s charm, and the famous Full Moon party. Cruise through Ha Long Bay, stand before ancient Angkor Wat, visit an ethical elephant sanctuary, and snorkel the stunning Phi Phi Islands. With an amazing travel crew by your side from day one, get set for the ultimate Southeast Asian experience and memories that will last a lifetime!

  • All Trips and Excursions
  • Airport Pick Up
  • All In-country Transfers
  • Flight to Chiang Mai
  • Flight Hanoi
  • Flight Ho Chi Minh
  • No Hidden Charges
  • International Flights
  • Travel Insurance

Backpacking Asia

£3579 from
Pay £250 deposit
  • Length38 Days
  • Avg. Age20-45
  • No. Of Activities44
  • No. Of Meals47
  • Avg. Group Size6-20
  • Starting PointBangkok
  • Ending PointSiem Reap

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Route Map

Tour Itinerary

Backpacking tour group arriving in Bangkok, seeing temple skyline at sunset
Bangkok hotel room for backpacking tour arrival day
DAY 1

Arrival in the Thai Capital

Upon landing in Bangkok, our team will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your guesthouse on Khao San Road, located in the centre of the travellers district. Meet your travel companions and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.

  • Room TypeHotel
Backpacking group visiting Wat Pho temple in Bangkok on tuk tuk tour
Colorful tuk tuk ride through Bangkok with backpacking tour group exploring temples
Visiting ancient temples in Bangkok during tuk tuk tour
Learning Thai culture and traditional greetings with local hosts in Bangkok
Spacious Bangkok villa accommodation with pool for backpacking tour group
DAY 2

Canal Exploration and Sacred Sites

This morning we'll see Bangkok from a unique perspective as we navigate the city's famous canals, observing floating markets and traditional local life. Afterwards, we'll visit some of the city's most renowned and sacred temples, travelling by tuk tuk through the bustling, chaotic streets.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedBangkok River Cruise, Visit Ancient Temples, Tuk Tuk
Group learning Thai cooking class with backpacking tour friends
Overnight train through Thailand provides unique accommodation on backpacking tour
DAY 3

Culinary Lessons and Overnight Journey

Thai food enthusiasts will love what's in store today. We'll discover the secrets of authentic Thai cooking this morning before boarding our overnight train with fully reclining beds, which will transport us southward.

  • Meals IncludedLunch
  • Room TypeOvernight Train
  • Activities IncludedCooking Class
Kayaking across hidden lake to floating bungalows in Khao Sok National Park
Longtail boat crossing the lake to floating bungalows at Khao Sok with backpacking group
Relaxing in floating bungalow surrounded by rainforest at Khao Sok lake
Backpacking tour group relaxing in floating bungalows with swimming pool at Khao SokX
DAY 4

Khao Sok National Park retreat

Get ready for a truly magical experience as we journey to our next destination. Travelling by traditional long tail boat through towering limestone cliffs, we'll arrive at our floating bungalow accommodation for the night in the stunning Khao Sok National Park. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy kayaking, tubing and spotting monkeys.

  • Meals IncludedLunch, Dinner
  • Room TypeFloating Bungalows
  • Activities IncludedKhao Sok National Park, Floating Bungalows, Kayaking & Tubing
Drone shot of backpacking tour group arriving at Koh Phangan tropical beach on a boat
Backpacking tour friends relaxing on Koh Phangan beach with longtail boats anchored nearby
Beachfront resort accommodation on Koh Phangan for backpacking tour group to relax
Backpacking tour group relaxing on hammock at beach resort in Koh Phangan
DAY 5

Arriving on Koh Phangan

We make our way to Koh Phangan today, the island renowned for its legendary full moon parties. We'll settle into our exclusive beachside bungalows, which feature an infinity pool and dedicated yoga space.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Room TypeHotel
Backpacker relaxing on Koh Phangan beach watching sunset with a drink
Backpacking tour friends jumping into pool at Koh Phangan beach resort during beach dayBackpacking tour friends playing beach volleyball at Koh Phangan during beach day
Backpacking tour friends playing beach volleyball at Koh Phangan during beach dayBackpacking tour friends swimming and snorkelling in the clear waters around Koh Phangan during island tour
DAY 6

Island Relaxation and Wellness

Spend the day relaxing on the beach or poolside, discovering the island, or enjoying the ocean. We'll also provide you with a traditional Thai massage.

  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedThai Massage
Backpacking tour friends swimming and snorkeling in clear waters around Koh Phangan during island tourAerial view of hidden beach and turquoise waters on Koh Phangan during island tour for backpacking groupAerial view of hidden beach and turquoise waters on Koh Phangan during island tour for backpacking group
Aerial view of hidden beach and turquoise waters on Koh Phangan during island tour for backpacking groupBackpacking tour friends lying in a circle with outstretched arms on the sandy beach during island tour
Backpacking tour friends lying in a circle with outstretched arms on the sandy beach during island tour
DAY 7

Discovering Island Highlights

We'll explore the finest parts of Koh Phangan today, including premier island locations and hidden beaches. After a day of sunbathing, we'll gather this evening for a beachside BBQ.

  • Meals IncludedLunch, Dinner
  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedIsland Trip, Beach BBQ
Backpacking group enjoying the beach view from Koh Phangan accommodation balcony
Backpacking tour participant practicing Muay Thai training with instructor in Koh Phangan
Backpacking tour participant walking along palm-lined road in Koh Phangan during yoga morning
Backpacking tour participant paddleboarding at sunset on calm sea in Koh Phangan
DAY 8

Boxing or Yoga Session

Feeling sluggish from all that beach relaxation? We have the perfect remedy to energize you - choose between a Muay Thai boxing class or a private yoga session. As this is our final night on Koh Phangan, we'll venture out together as a group for some evening entertainment.

  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedMuay Thai or Yoga Experience
Backpacking group having fun at a lively beach party on Phi Phi Islands during the backpacking tour
Tall palm trees lining a tranquil beach on Phi Phi Island during the backpacking tour travel day
Aerial view of Andaman resort accommodation on Phi Phi Island for the backpacking group
DAY 9

Departing for the Phi Phi Islands

Trading one island paradise for another, we'll bid farewell to Koh Phangan and greet Phi Phi. Upon our late afternoon arrival, we'll check into our lovely resort before heading out for dinner and evening drinks.

  • Room TypeHotel
DAY 10

Exploring Phi Phi by Boat

Today we'll embark on a boat excursion around the stunning Phi Phi Leh. Snorkelling, kayaking and an evening underwater light show are all planned, and we'll conclude the day with dinner and drinks beneath the stars.

  • Meals IncludedDinner
  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedIslands Boat Trip, Snorkelling, Phi Phi Islands Experience
Sunrise view of the Phi Phi viewpoint overlooking lush islands and turquoise bay during the backpacking tour
Lush resort accommodation with pool for the backpacking group on Phi Phi Islands
DAY 11

Viewpoint Trek and Island Hopping

Trek to Phi Phi's famous viewpoint in the morning before discovering the spectacular Paradise Islands on an exclusive private boat trip for snorkelling. Later, we'll go out for dinner and experience Phi Phi's vibrant nightlife scene.

  • Meals IncludedLunch
  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedPhi Phi Viewpoint, Islands Boat Trip, Snorkelling
Scenic view of Phuket coast and turquoise sea at sunset during the backpacking tour
Colorful streets of Phuket Old Town with colonial architecture explored during the backpacking tour
Hotel accommodation with pool in Phuket for the backpacking group
DAY 12

Journey to Phuket

We'll take a boat to beautiful Phuket today and celebrate with a sunset dinner and drinks.

  • Room TypeHotel
Wat Phra Singh temple in Chiang Mai old city visited by the backpacking tour group
Chiang Mai hotel room accommodation for the backpacking group
DAY 13

Flying North to Chiang Mai

This morning we'll catch a flight to Chiang Mai, the culturally rich capital of northern Thailand. After checking into our accommodation, there will be time to discover the city, relax by the pool or browse the shops. Tonight we'll visit Chiang Mai's bustling night markets.

  • Room TypeHotel
Backpacking tour group climbing Sticky Waterfalls in Chiang Mai rainforest
Backpacking tour exploring ornate serpent staircase at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple in Chiang Mai
Traditional bamboo hut accommodation for overnight hill tribe trek on the backpacking tour
DAY 14

Cultural Sites and Natural Beauty

Today features a full day exploring Chiang Mai's cultural treasures and natural wonders. We'll begin with the famous Doi Suthep Temple, enjoy a traditional Thai lunch, then visit the intriguing sticky waterfalls.

  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedSticky Waterfalls
Hill tribe woman in traditional dress smiling during backpacking jungle trek
Smiling hill tribe child meeting backpacking group during overnight jungle trek
Traditional bamboo hut accommodation for overnight stay during hill tribe jungle trek
DAY 15

Jungle Trek to Hill Tribe Village

We'll venture beyond the city into the surrounding jungle today, trekking toward our remote jungle accommodation. Walking past rice paddies and cascading waterfalls, we'll spend tonight experiencing the traditional lifestyle of a local hill tribe community.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Room TypeHut
  • Activities IncludedOvernight Hill Tribe Trek
Backpacking tour participants bamboo rafting down a peaceful river in Chiang Mai
Modern hotel accommodation in Chiang Mai for the backpacking group
DAY 16

River Rafting and Return Journey

After waking to jungle sounds, we'll continue trekking before bamboo river rafting our way back to the city. This evening you can either relax or explore Chiang Mai's nightlife.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast, Lunch
  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedBamboo Rafting
Observing elephants roaming at an ethical sanctuary on the backpacking tour
Modern Chiang Mai hotel accommodation for the backpacking group
DAY 17

Elephant Sanctuary Visit

We've saved one of the finest experiences for last. Today we'll encounter Thailand's most revered animal up close - elephants. At a dedicated sanctuary, we'll observe these magnificent gentle giants and discover how to feed and care for them properly.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedElephant Sanctuary
DAY 18

Arrival in Hanoi

Your Vietnam group leader will greet you at Hanoi airport and escort you to the guesthouse. You'll have ample time to relax and socialize with your travel group.

  • Room TypeHotel
DAY 19

Hanoi City Exploration

We'll dive into the energy and chaos of Hanoi today with a combined walking and rickshaw tour. Experience daily life in the hectic capital while sampling spicy spring rolls and delicious street food. This evening we'll venture out for dinner and drinks to discover Hanoi's after-dark offerings.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedWalking & Rickshaw Tour of Hanoi, Night Out in Hanoi
DAY 20

Cruising Ha Long Bay

From Hanoi we'll journey to Ha Long Bay, where we'll sail the emerald waters encircled by limestone mountains in an otherworldly setting. The hidden caves and coves will entice us to explore by kayak before we settle in for the evening on our overnight boat featuring a hot tub and bar.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Room TypeOvernight Cruise
  • Activities IncludedOvernight Boat Trip on Ha Long Bay, Kayaking
DAY 21

Journey to Ninh Binh Countryside

The sprawling rice paddies and dramatic limestone mountains of Ninh Binh are today's destination, where we'll stay at a local homestay in traditional riverside bungalows.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast, Lunch
  • Room TypeHomestay
  • Activities IncludedLocal Homestay Experience
DAY 22

Cycling, Rowing and Mountain Views

We'll cycle through rice paddies before taking a local rowboat along a network of rivers and through caves. A climb up Dragon Mountain viewpoint will gift us spectacular panoramas. Then we'll board our surprisingly comfortable overnight train heading to Hoi An.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Room TypeOvernight Train
  • Activities IncludedBicycle Tour of Ninh Binh, Rice Paddies, River Boat Cruise, Dragon Mountain Viewpoint
DAY 23

Arriving in Historic Hoi An

The charming, historic town of Hoi An will captivate you immediately upon our morning arrival. After checking into our hotel, the afternoon is yours to wander, shop, or perhaps commission a custom suit or dress from a local tailor.

  • Room TypeHotel
DAY 24

Traditional Fishing and Culinary Workshop

Local fishermen will guide us today through coconut groves, demonstrating the traditional art of crab fishing. We'll then participate in a hands-on cooking class to master the techniques of Vietnamese cuisine.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast, Lunch
  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedCooking Class, Visit Local Markets, Basket Boat Crab Fishing
DAY 25

Crafts and Coastal Relaxation

Today you'll get creative making one of Vietnam's most iconic keepsakes - a beautiful handcrafted lantern. Later, we'll travel to the coast for a leisurely beach afternoon where you can relax by the sea, swim, or simply enjoy the surroundings. We'll also stop at a trendy beach club for lunch, the ideal location for great food, refreshing drinks and ocean views.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedLantern Making Class
DAY 26

Flying South to Saigon

We'll fly south to the dynamic city of Ho Chi Minh. The remainder of the day is free for you to explore at your leisure.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Room TypeHotel
DAY 27

Mekong Delta Experience

The mighty Mekong creates expansive stretches of verdant landscape as far as the eye can see. We'll observe how locals live and work along the river, explore nearby villages, and spend tonight at a local homestay.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedTraditional Mud Fishing, Mekong Delta Experience, Local Village Visit
DAY 28

Underground Tunnel System Tour

We'll visit the Cu Chi Tunnels today. This extensive network of hand-dug underground passages was vital during the Vietnam War, serving as supply routes, hideouts and living quarters for soldiers.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast, Lunch
  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedCu Chi Tunnels
DAY 29

Border Crossing to Phnom Penh

Today we board our bus to Cambodia. Following our border crossing, we'll reach Cambodia's capital city, Phnom Penh in the afternoon. Afterwards, we'll head out for dinner and drinks.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast, Dinner
  • Room TypeHotel
DAY 30

Capital City and Historical Sites

The day begins with a tuk tuk tour navigating the vibrant, crowded streets of Phnom Penh. We'll then visit two significant locations in Cambodia's tragic history - the S21 Prison and the Killing Fields. The accounts and history here will be challenging but essential for understanding Cambodia's past, including the Khmer Rouge's brutal regime. This evening features dinner, drinks and experiencing Phnom Penh's nightlife.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedTuk Tuk Tour, S21 Prison With Local Guide, Tour of the Killing Fields
DAY 31

Riverside Retreat in Kampot

Trading urban streets for tranquil rural roads, we'll travel to the serene countryside province of Kampot, our base for the next two nights. After settling into our comfortable traditional riverside guesthouse, we'll spend the afternoon kayaking, gliding slowly along the river while absorbing the peaceful scenery.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Room TypeGuesthouse
  • Activities IncludedRiver Kayaking
DAY 32

Spice Farm Visit and Culinary Lessons

Interesting fact - Kampot is celebrated for producing some of the world's finest pepper. We'll test this claim this morning at a pepper plantation. This afternoon brings a cooking competition as we learn to prepare some of Cambodia's most celebrated dishes, before enjoying a relaxed sunset cruise on the river.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast, Lunch
  • Room TypeGuesthouse
  • Activities IncludedPepper Plantation, Khmer Cooking Class, Sunset River Cruise
DAY 33

Island Paradise Awaits

Never considered Cambodia a beach destination? Wait until you reach Koh Rong Sanloem. We'll travel by train and fast ferry to this idyllic island, checking into our paradise accommodation owned by the village Chief. This afternoon, ease into island rhythm as you lounge on the beach, beer in hand, and capture stunning island photos at the Cliff Bar during sunset.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Room TypeResort
DAY 34

Private Boat and Underwater Exploration

We'll board a private long tail boat this morning to discover some of the island's premier snorkelling locations. Expect secluded beach relaxation or exploring the vibrant underwater world swimming alongside tropical fish. This evening's sunset provides the perfect moment to reflect on another incredibly memorable day together.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Room TypeResort
  • Activities IncludedKoh Rong Sanloem Boat Trip, Snorkelling
DAY 35

Final Beach Time and Sleeper Bus

On our last morning in Koh Rong Sanloem, we'll enjoy relaxing on the beach. We'll then ferry back to the mainland for dinner before boarding an overnight bus to Siem Reap. With fully reclining beds and air conditioning, this is comfortable bus travel at its finest.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Room TypeOvernight Bus
DAY 36

Countryside and Water Communities

Arriving in Siem Reap in the morning, we'll journey to the rural areas and explore traditional floating villages encircled by lush rice fields, lotus flowers and flooded forests.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Room TypeHostel
  • Activities IncludedFloating Villages
DAY 37

Ancient Temple Complex Tour

We've saved the ultimate highlight for last - today you'll witness the 8th Wonder of the World. Constructed in the early 12th century, Angkor Wat ranks among the world's oldest and largest temples. We'll tour the site with a local guide learning its history, and perhaps recreate favourite Tomb Raider scenes at Ta Prohm, a temple featured in the film. This afternoon we'll meet the APOPO hero rats, who have been detecting landmines and saving lives globally since 1997, before our farewell dinner and final night out together.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Room TypeHostel
  • Activities IncludedAngkor Wat Sunrise Temple Tour
DAY 38

Departure Day

Your incredible 38 day Southeast Asia adventure concludes today in Siem Reap. We'll assist with planning and arranging your onward travel.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast

Tour Dates

All This Included & More!

  • Bangkok River Cruise
  • Visit Ancient Temples
  • Thai Cooking Class
  • Khao Sok National Park
  • Floating Bungalows
  • Kayaking & Tubing
  • Island trip & Snorkelling
  • Beach BBQ
  • Muay Thai or Yoga
  • Thai Massage
  • Paradise Islands Boat Trip & Snorkelling
  • Phi Phi Viewpoint
  • Sticky Waterfalls
  • Overnight Hill Tribe Trek
  • Bamboo River Rafting
  • Elephant Sanctuary
  • Walking & Rickshaw Tour of Hanoi
  • Night Out in Hanoi
  • Overnight Boat Trip on Ha Long Bay
  • Kayaking
  • Local Home-Stay Experience in Ninh Binh
  • River Boat Cruise
  • Bicycle Tour in Ninh Binh
  • Dragon Mountain Viewpoint
  • Vietnamese Cooking Class
  • Visit Local Markets
  • Basket Boat Crab Fishing
  • Lantern Making Class
  • Cu Chi Tunnels Tour
  • Traditional Mud Fishing
  • Mekong Delta Experience
  • Local Village Visit
  • Tuk Tuk Tour of Phnom Penh
  • S21 Prison with Local Guide
  • Tour of the Killing Fields
  • River Kayaking
  • Pepper Plantation
  • Khmer Cooking Class
  • Sunset River Cruise
  • Koh Rong Sanloem Boat Trip
  • Snorkelling
  • Floating Villages
  • Angkor Wat Sunrise Tour
  • APOPO Hero Rats

Optional Extras

£40
£950