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Journeys: Iconic Thailand
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Length
15 Days
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Quality
This indicates the overall quality of the tour operator's products. A low rating does not mean it is not good - it just means that it does not include as much, or perhaps is of a more standard quality than the higher quality tours. For example, a 3 star quality rating means that it is a more standard/economical tour, while 5 stars is a very luxurious tour that often includes a lot of amenities. -
Starts in
Bangkok (Thailand)
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Ends in
Bangkok (Thailand)
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Available Tour Start Dates
OCT 4, 2026 to JAN 7, 2029
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Activity Level
Easy
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Style
Fully-Guided
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Guaranteed Date(s)
Yes means that there is at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur. No means that there is not at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur, which usually means that the vendor wants a certain amount of reservations on each tour in order for each one to occur. Of course, the terms and conditions of the vendor do allow for the vendor to cancel guaranteed tour dates for certain reasons (for example, a natural disaster).Yes
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Special Interest(s)
National Geographic
Greater exploration, insider access, and the freedom to roam - all without sacrificing comfort., Small GroupGroup trips average 12 travellers per departure, depending on the adventure. The maximum is usually no more than 16, but some can be smaller or bigger, depending on the trip. Check individual trips for details.
From
Pricing listed is per person, based on double occupancy, and is the least expensive price for at least one departure date of this tour. Price is for the tour only. Additional items, including but not limited to, airfare (unless noted otherwise), travel insurance, and more, are additional.
$3,331.30
Contact Us for a Special Price!
Overview
Experience the timeless grandeur of Thailand's cities, temples, and landscapes on a cross-country adventure. Explore the rich cultural heritage and culinary delights of Chiang Mai, then head south to discover tropical coastlines. Stroll the sun-drenched shores of Ko Samui, and venture to limestone cliffs and sacred caves in Krabi. In each destination, marvel at intricate palaces and monasteries, meet locals in village homes and traditional workshops, and delight in the flavours of authentic Thai cuisine.
Visited During Tour
Bangkok (Thailand) | Chiang Mai (Thailand) | Kanchanaburi (Thailand) | Khao Sok National Park (Thailand) | Ko Samui (Thailand) | Koh Samui (Thailand) | Krabi (Thailand) | Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya (Thailand)
Dates, Offers & Prices
Tour Itinerary
Accommodations
More Details
Dates, Offers & Prices
The following are Journeys: Iconic Thailand tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
There is at least one departure that the vendor is advising is Not Available for the selected year. Click here if you would like such tours to be included below.
Tour Itinerary
G Adventures Tour Code ATHNG-9605
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Day
1Bangkok
Arrive at any time; your arrival transfer is included.
Exclusive Inclusions:
Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group
Your opportunity to meet your National Geographic Expedition Leader and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Airport Transfer
Upon arrival at the airport, head to the arrival hall and go to gate number 4 near the airport information counter. Look for a driver holding a G Adventures sign with your name, who'll take you to your hotel so you can check in and start exploring.
Accommodations: Grand China Bangkok -
Day
2Bangkok/Kanchanaburi
After breakfast, travel to the city of Kanchanaburi, situated at the convergence of the Khwae Noi and Khwae Yai Rivers. Board a train for a winding journey into World War II history as you cross the bridge made famous by the 1957 film The Bridge on the River Kwai. At the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre, learn about the Burma Railway, constructed by imperial Japanese forces to connect Bangkok and Burma; then visit the nearby Kanchanaburi War Cemetery to see where the prisoners of war who worked on the railway were laid to rest.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Echoes of the River Kwai
Take in a piece of World War II history on this visit. You've seen or at least heard of the famous movie, "Bridge on the River Kwai" -- tour the real thing and take a train ride over the bridge. It's massive, majestic, and imposing, and offers fabulous views of the river below.
Thai/Burma Railway Centre and Allied War Cemetery Visit
Visit the Thai-Burmese Railway Museum to learn about the Death Railway's dark history, and the Allied War Cemetery where more than 6,000 prisoners are buried.
Accommodations: Royal River Kwai Resort -
Day
3Kanchanaburi/Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
This morning, hike into the lush landscapes of Erawan National Park, located high in the mist-shrouded Tenasserim Hills. Take a dip in the turquoise pools of the Erawan Falls-so called because its top tier of cascades resemble the three-headed, mythological elephant known as Erawan. This afternoon, transfer to the historic city of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, a former capital of the medieval kingdom of Ayutthaya, also known as Siam. Sample traditional Thai dishes during dinner on a converted rice barge from the 1930s.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Seven tiers of turquoise
Visit one of the world's most beautiful waterfalls. Its seven tiers offer a unique experience at every climb, reaching up to 1,500m (4921 ft). Swim in the turquoise pools, snap photos from the top tier, and opt to hike in the jungle to spot monkeys.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Dinner Cruise
Cruise down the river aboard a converted 1930s rice barge. Have a delicious Thai meal while taking in the incredible views of the city.
Accommodations: Classic Kameo Hotel Ayutthaya -
Day
4Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya/Chiang Mai
Set out to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ayutthaya Historical Park, centered on the old city which served as the Siamese capital from the 14th to 18th centuries, when it was one of the largest and most cosmopolitan regions in the world. Stroll down well-planned city streets to view magnificent palaces and Buddhist monasteries that set the standard for Thai architecture for generations to come. Later, return to Bangkok and transfer to the airport for your flight to Chiang Mai. Visit a traditional village in the countryside and enjoy a khantok-style dinner, served on low pedestal trays.
Khantok in the Northern dialect means wooden tray, used for carrying dishes, round in shape and made of teak wood. The host will invite guests to sit on the floor around the khantok. After dinner, enjoy tea time with the opportunity to talk with local people to learn their way of living.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Ayutthaya Historical Park Guided Tour
Explore the ruins of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ayuthaya served as Thailand's capital from the 14th to 18th centuries, when it ranked as one of the most magnificent cities in the world. Late in the 17th century its population reached one million, and foreign visitors wrote awestruck accounts of its size and splendour.
Private Vehicle
Hello again, Bangkok! Travel back to the city and to the airport by private vehicle.
Plane
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Local Khantoke dinner
Visit a village outside Chiang Mai and sit down to an authentic Khantoke dinner in the home of a local family. Dishes typically include sticky rice, hang-le curry, and crispy pork with chilli paste. Over tea, learn about life in rural Thailand and visit the family garden to learn about herbs and spices popular in local cooking.
Accommodations: Siripanna Villa Resort & Spa -
Day
5Chiang Mai
Delve into the bustle of Chiang Mai's morning markets with a local chef, and learn about colourful fruits and fragrant herbs as you select ingredients for a Thai cooking class. Enjoy your creation for lunch, then set out to visit a historic temple. Gain insights into core Buddhist principles and daily life in the temple through a conversation with a Theravada monk, an alumnus of the International Buddhist University in Sri Lanka, and a respected teacher of Buddhism and meditation at a renowned international center in Chiang Mai. Later, clear your mind to the chanting of monks at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of the most spectacular gilded temples in Thailand.
Monk chats are a great cultural exchange, but also important in helping the young Monks improve their English.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Exclusive Inclusions:
Cooking Class
Pick out the best ingredients at a local market and learn how to make delicious Thai dishes.
Meet with Monks
Visit a Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai's Suthep district. Engage in an informal conversation with a teaching monk at the international meditation center. Discuss Theravadha Buddhism and monastic life. These sessions offer a unique opportunity for personal reflection and a deeper connection to the ancient wisdom of Buddhism.
Doi Suthep Temple Visit
Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a golden Buddhist temple outside of Chiang Mai on the Mt Doi Suthep. Climb 300 steps to reach the temple and be rewarded with an unforgettable view. Admire the many Buddhist relics at this sacred temple and visit the white elephant shrine. Legend has it that the location of the temple was chosen after a white elephant carried a relic to the mountain and trumpeted three times before dying on the spot. Also, with a little luck, you may witness the chanting of the monks.
Local Van
Climb aboard, take your seat, and enjoy the ride.
Accommodations: Siripanna Villa Resort & Spa1Optional Activities for Day 5
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Day
6Chiang Mai
Spend a full day exploring Chiang Mai's temples and forested hills on your own, or choose between a variety of optional activities. Opt to take a cycling tour through verdant rice paddies and the elegant historic district. In the evening, choose to visit Chiang Mai's vibrant night market.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Free Time
Chiang Mai is a mecca for shopping and handicraft production, so take advantage of this opportunity to do some shopping if you wish.
Accommodations: Siripanna Villa Resort & Spa2Optional Activities for Day 6
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Day
7Chiang Mai/Bangkok
This morning, fly to Bangkok and visit Wat Pho, Bangkok's largest and oldest temple complex, and often considered Thailand's first public university-its many inscriptions were intended to instruct visitors. Marvel at the magnificent statue of the Reclining Buddha, glittering with gold leaf and mother-of-pearl. Then board a traditional klong boat for a ride along the winding canals that have earned the city the nickname the "Venice of the East." Glide past colourful temples, modern skyscrapers, and houses perched above the water.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Plane
Take a quick flight back to Bangkok.
Life along the canals
Travel by longtail boat on the busy Chao Phraya River and through the small canals of western Bangkok's Thonburi district. Observe colourful scenes of everyday life along the river banks.
Wat Po Visit
This temple is known for its reclining Buddha, its feet covered with mother-of-pearl engravings of Buddhist symbols. Explore the large grounds and other compounds to see other Buddha figures, murals and the chedis that contain the ashes of Buddha. This is also the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodations: Grand China Bangkok -
Day
8Bangkok
Enjoy a free day in bustling Bangkok. Opt to visit the dazzling Grand Palace, formerly the official residence of the Thai royal family, and gaze upon the sacred statue of the Emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Kaew. Browse the stunning collections of Thai art and artifacts at the Bangkok National Museum, including weaponry, ceramics, textiles, and musical instruments; or hop on a bike to explore the quieter side of the city, pedalling past hidden temples and lush parks.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Free Time
Enjoy a free day in Bangkok to explore.
Accommodations: Grand China Bangkok3Optional Activities for Day 8
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Day
9Bangkok/Ko Samui
This morning, transfer to the airport in Bangkok and catch a flight to the tropical island of Ko Samui, bordered by the sapphire waters off Thailand's southeast coast. Settle into your hotel and enjoy a free afternoon to relax by the pool, stroll along a white-sand beach, or explore the local village.
Off of Thailand's east coast in the Gulf of Thailand, Ko Samui offers everything you could possibly want in a seaside retreat: white sandy beaches, coconut palms, fresh seafood, and warm, clear waters. Our resort is nestled in tropical gardens with a private beach leading into crystal clear waters. The property also has three freshwater swimming pools and the resort is just 15 minutes by road to Lamai Beach's bustling nightlife district.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Plane
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Free Time
Kick back and relax on the beach, or opt to explore the town.
Accommodations: Fair House Villas & Spa -
Day
10Koh Samui
Enjoy a full day of free time to relax in Koh Samui. Opt for an island tour or a visit to Ang Thong Marine Park.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Free Time
Spend a full free day getting to know Koh Samui on your own. Stroll along the pristine beaches, visit the various temples in the area, hike through the island jungle, or set out on a day trip to Ang Thong Marine Park.
Accommodations: Fair House Villas & Spa2Optional Activities for Day 10
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Day
11Ko Samui/Khao Sok
Catch the ferry back to the mainland and drive to Kao Thep Pitak, a community-owned farm supported by G Adventures. Enjoy a lunch of local specialties and take a stroll through the surrounding fruit orchards. Continue to Khao Sok National Park, where you will settle into a lovely resort overlooking the riverside and tucked beneath the rising cliffs in the distance.This evening, venture into the rainforest park on a nighttime walk with a community guide, then gather for a campfire dinner surrounded by the music of the jungle.
Khao Sok is a stunning location with one of the oldest evergreen rainforests in the world, surrounded by limestone karst cliffs.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Ferry
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Kao Thep Pitak Farm and Culinary Experience
Discover how delicious southern Thai dishes go from plot to plate at this community farm and restaurant experience. Take a walk through Kao Thep Pitak's organic farm and fruit orchard to see how those same items are made into a tasty meal by local village residents. You'll also have the opportunity to visit the rubber plantation and learn how the village has made this farm into a self-sufficient economy benefitting over 140 families. Planeterra and G Adventures are proud to support this endeavour.
Harvesting local traditions
Indulge in traditional Southern Thai cuisine prepared by members of Kao Thep Pitak village. Your meal will be made with ingredients picked from local organic farms and a fruit orchard on the property. Over 140 families benefit from the community-owned and managed eatery through the Kao Thep Pitak Community Ecotourism Enterprise, supported by Planeterra and G Adventures.
Feast in the rainforest
In the afternoon, venture into the lush rainforest of Klong Phanom National Park alongside a local guide who calls this region home. Take a walk through the vibrant landscape as your host shares the secrets of traditional jungle medicines, then gather around a campfire to enjoy a freshly prepared dinner of local rainforest specialties.
Accommodations: Anurak Community Lodge -
Day
12Khao Sok
Khao Sok National Park is southern Thailand's largest area of virgin rainforest, encompassing a breathtaking wilderness of karst peaks, turquoise lakes, and tropical rainforest that stretch along the southwest coast. Explore the park on your own today, choosing between a variety of optional jungle activities. Head out for a hike in search of monkeys and tropical birds inhabiting the dense canopy. Glide down the sparkling Sok River aboard a canoe or take a boat tour in the beautiful scenery of striking limestone cliffs.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Free Time
Today is free for optional activities including jungle hikes or canoeing.
Accommodations: Anurak Community Lodge2Optional Activities for Day 12
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Day
13Khao Sok/Krabi
This morning, drive south to Krabi, situated on Thailand's tropical southwest coast. Cross the Krabi River by private longtail boat, gliding past mangrove forests and limestone peaks. Venture into the Khao Khanap Nam cave to view prehistoric paintings and fascinating rock formations. Later, head to Ko Klang island and board motorized tricycle tuk-tuks to explore local communities and traditional industries, including a rubber plantation, rice fields, and a batik workshop. Chat with villagers and learn about timeless agricultural and artisanal techniques passed down over generations.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Life along the Krabi River
With our local guide, cross the Krabi River by typical long-tail boat, and jump in tuk tuks to explore local villages and farming communities. Interact with people going about their daily lives farming rice and vegetables and other rural industries. Learn about the culture and beliefs of the mostly Muslim population.
Accommodations: Aonang Princeville VIlla Resort & Spa -
Day
14Krabi
Hop on a traditional longtail boat and set out on a full-day tour of the Hong Islands with stops at Hong Beach, Hong Lagoon, Phak Bia, and Lading Island with an included lunch. Enjoy the calm waters and colorful aquatic life as you soak up the sun.
In the evening enjoy some of the beautiful scenic views that have made southern Thailand so famous. Grab a cocktail and relax at the pool. Your National Geographic Expedition Leader will fill you in on all the other interesting options that are available in the area. This is the perfect place to get active or simply chill out and relax.Our resort is located at Aonang Beach and only a short distance by Tuk -Tuk to Noppharat Thara Beach. End the day in paradise with a stroll along the beachfront.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Exclusive Inclusions:
Island hopping by longtail
Explore the Hong Islands on a full-day tour from Krabi that travels by traditional Longtail boat. Head to white-sand beaches and hidden lagoons where you can snorkel in the clear waters of the Andaman Sea and search for an abundance of colorful fish and other aquatic life. Take breaks to lie on the white sand and soak up the sun.
Accommodations: Aonang Princeville VIlla Resort & Spa1Optional Activities for Day 14
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Day
15Krabi/Bangkok
This morning, return to Bangkok, where your trip concludes.
The tour ends at Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok Airport). Please note: your flight must not depart earlier than 15:00 on this day.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Plane
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Departure Day
Not ready to leave? Your Expedition Leader can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
Accommodations
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their Journeys: Iconic Thailand tour:
Bangkok
Grand China Bangkok
Location
215 Yaowarat Rd, Samphanthawong
Bangkok, Thailand-10100
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Chiang Mai
Siripanna Villa Resort & Spa
Location
36 Rat Uthit Rd, Amphur, Mueang Chiang Mai District
Chiang Mai, Thailand-50000
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Kanchanaburi
Royal River Kwai Resort
Location
88 Moo 2, Kanchanaburi-Saiyok Rd.
Kangsean, Muang
Kanchanaburi, Thailand-71000
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Khao Sok
Anurak Community Lodge
Location
14/1 Moo 4, Klong Sok,, Phanom, Phanom District
Khao Sok, Thailand-84250
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Koh Samui
Fair House Villas & Spa
Location
39 Moo 1 Maenam Beach
Koh Samui, Thailand-84330
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Krabi
Aonang Princeville VIlla Resort & Spa
Location
Moo 2 164 Ao Nang, Mueang Krabi District
Krabi, Thailand-81180
Other Details
- Spa, Air Conditioning, Outdoor Pool, Restaurant, 24-hour Front Desk
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Classic Kameo Hotel Ayutthaya
Location
210 - 211, 148 Moo 5 Rojana Road
Tambol Pailing, Aumphur
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Thailand-13000
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
More Details
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Journeys: Iconic Thailand tour:
Group Size
Max 16, Avg 12.
What's Included
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Local Khantoke dinner, Chiang MaiYour Journeys Highlight Moment: Meet with Monks, Chiang MaiYour Journeys Highlight Moment: Kao Thep Pitak Farm and Culinary Experience, Ban Ta KhunYour Journeys Highlight Moment: Feast in the rainforest, Khao SokYour Journeys Highlight Moment: Life along the Krabi River, KrabiYour G for Good Moment: Harvesting local traditions, Ban Ta KhunYour G for Good Moment: Island hopping by longtail, KrabiYour Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and GroupYour Foodie Moment: Cooking Class, Chiang MaiYour Discover Moment: Bangkok. Arrival transfer. Entrance to Thai-Burma war museum and train ride. Visit to Erawan National Park. Tour at Ayutthaya Historical Park. Dinner on a converted rice barge. Bangkok boat tour of the klongs (canals) and Wat Pho temple complex. Hong Island Traditional Longtail Boat Tour. Internal flights. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Highlights
Discuss daily life with a resident monk, Explore the temples and palaces of Ayutthaya, Cruise Bangkok's delightfully chaotic canals, Explore Hong Island on a traditional Longtail Boat, Coast down Krabi River aboard a Longtail boat before hopping in a tricycle tuk-tuk
Optional Activities
G Adventures is offering the following optional activities at an additional cost, subject to availability:
Chiang Mai- Chiang Mai Cycling Tour (1500THB per person)- Street Food Walk at Chiang Mai Night MarketBangkok- Bangkok Cycling Tour (35USD per person)- National Museum Visit (200THB per person)- Grand Palace Visit (500THB per person)Koh Samui- Angthong National Marine Park Visit- Koh Samui Island Tour (15USD per person)Khao Sok- Khao Sok National Park Hike- Sok River Canoe TourKrabi- Massage
What are the mandatory travel insurance requirements for this trip?
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your Expedition Leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Accommodation Summary
Hotels (12 nts), lodge (2 nts).
Meals Included
14 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners
What are the meals like on this trip?
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally, meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what, and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally, food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your Expedition Leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. Included breakfasts in some places may be Asian style consisting of noodles or congee (rice porridge) or bread and eggs. Vegetarians will be able to find a range of different foods, although in some areas the choice maybe limited. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
Group Leader
National Geographic Expedition Leader
What is the role of the group leader during this trip?
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our National Geographic Expedition Leader throughout. The aim of the Expedition Leaders is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
International Flights
No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your National Geographic Signature Specialist or booking agent for further details.In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Transportation
Private bus/minivan, tuk tuk, tricycle, boat, ferry, train, plane, walking.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
How should I dress to respect local customs during the tour?
In Asia, the dress standard is more conservative than it is back home. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate of Asian summers. In predominately Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim countries we ask that you dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank-tops when visiting temples or mosques or other holy sites.
Notes
Effective May 1, 2025, all travelers entering Thailand through air, land, or sea must complete the Thailand E-Arrival form. You must register at least 3 days before arrival. Please see Trip Details for more information.
Checklist
Conservative Dress:o Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders)o Shawl or scarf (for temple visits)Documents:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Footwear (required) (Closed toe suggested)o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Hato Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Smart Dress:o Smart outfit (For evenings out)Warm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
What are the packing guidelines and luggage restrictions?
What you need to bring depends on the trip you have chosen and the countries or regions you are planning to visit. We suggest that you pack as lightly as possible as you are expected to carry your own luggage. As a rule, we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 minutes with your bags which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 15kg/30lb. We recommended for G Adventures trips a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size (no XXL ones please!) as they need to fit under the beds when travelling on sleeper trains. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water, cameras and other electronics like ipods and mobile phones.
Service Level
Upgraded: Quality accommodations and more inclusions than on other G Adventures tours, like meals, private transport, and activities.
What are the tipping guidelines for this trip?
It is customary in Asia to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is expected - though not compulsory - and shows an expression of satisfaction with the people who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. You may do this individually, or your Expedition Leader will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your Expedition Leader for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture. Tipping is not included for the Expedition Leader. Should you want some basic guidelines on tipping for the activities you do on your own, please see below. At the end of each trip if you felt your National Geographic Expedition Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline would be $10-$15 per person per day.
Pricing and availability are subject to change and must be confirmed by one of our travel advisors, who can contact the vendor to do so. Intra-vacation air (also referred to as internal air) is usually based on economy class seating (do not assume otherwise, unless explicity noted otherwise) and may be 100% non-refundable at time of final payment. Air quotes (including intra-vacation airfare) may be subject to change until final payment has been received by the vendor. Flight confirmation may be based on availability. Air reservations may not be able to be confirmed until a passport copy is received by the vendor. The following charges are not included in the vacation price unless otherwise noted: airfare to and from the start of your vacation; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities; airport taxes and fees, including the September 11th Security fee, passenger facility charges, Federal domestic flight segment fees, and U.S. and international arrival and departure and other government-imposed fees added by the airline and applicable at time of booking; port taxes; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ship's crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant or onboard your vessel (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; optional excursions; additional activities and excursions purchased online; porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection; and all other items of a personal nature. Itinerary details are provided by the vendor. Vendors may reserve the right to change itineraries, even on existing reservations. There may be instances where the name of a tour contains a tour length in it, but where there is a version of the tour that is a different number of days in length. You can check the true length of a tour by referring to the length value listed in association with that tour. Destination images displayed on this web page, some which are supplied by the related vendor and some which are not, are intended to simply give a general representation of the region of the world being visited during the tour. Such images are not necessarily of the exact areas being visited during the tour. Hotel details (including, but not limited to: rating/class, descriptions, images, amenities and addresses) are provided by G Adventures. Hotel amenities may be communicated in shorthand by G Adventures (for example, if "Laundry" is listed that may only mean that the hotel has an optional fee-based service that would allow for your laundry to be done by their staff). We reserve the right to correct errors.