MYanmar

ANCIENT BURMA & THE FORBIDDEN ISLANDS 

NOV – DEC 2019  ●  19 DAYS  ●  11 GUESTS

Join us on an expedition to one of the most fascinating and intriguing countries of South East Asia, a land where thousands of ancient stupas rise out of flat plains and floating village life ebbs and flows on Inle Lake. Explore the “Forbidden Islands” from the comforts of a luxury sailing vessel. Home to the Moken sea gypsies, these islands were off-limits to foreigners until just recently. Imagine hundreds of uninhabited tropical islands with white-sand beaches, covered in dense jungle. In this deeply Buddhist country, visit ancient temples, monasteries and pagodas; explore bustling colorful markets and immerse yourself in the cultural splendors of this magical place. Our Burma itinerary is designed to not only cover the classic architectural wonders in Yangon, Mandalay and the ancient city of Bagan, but to sail the spectacular Mergui islands from the comforts of a private yacht, to witness minority hill tribes and experience the timeless beauty of life along the banks of the Irrawaddy River from the comforts of a restored colonial riverboat. As the sun slowly rises behind distant mountains, float over Bagan's ancient pagodas, stupas and the mighty Ayeyarwaddy River in a Hot-air Balloon. Visit a remote elephant camp in a conservation area and help feed and bathe these gentle giants. Explore lush farmland, discover traditional villages and meet the ethnic minority tribes on a classic trek between Kalaw and Inle Lake and overnight at a monastery. The Mergui island boat charter company was awarded by NatGeo as one of the best trips for 2015. This amazing adventure has been designed to include incredible photographic opportunities. 

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Explore and photograph traditional villages, colorful markets, architecture and stunning scenery in this ancient land.

  • Sail, dive, snorkel and explore the remote and untouched “Forbidden Islands” of the Mergui Archipelago.

  • Soar over the ancient kingdom of Bagan by hot-air balloon.

  • Visit a remote Elephant camp and help feed and bathe these gentle giants.

  • Indulge in a luxurious overnight cruise down the famous Irrawaddy River.

  • Visit the fascinating ancient sites, temples and pagodas of Mandalay, Bagan and Yangon.

  • Choose to participate in a trek through traditional villages and overnight in a monastery.

  • Savor great food, experience the warm hospitality and meet the wonderful people of Myanmar.

  • Relax, unwind and take in the beauty of the white sandy beaches, azure waters of the Mergui Archipelago.

  • Join the Mount Victoria trekking expedition to see tattooed hill tribes and remote mountain villages.

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Add On - Bangkok

PRE OR POST  ●  3 DAYS

We are also offering a short Add-on to explore Bangkok and its surroundings. Be in awe of the iconic Grand Palace, visit ancient temples and see Buddha statues in gold and jade. Witness the slow-paced life along the Chao Phraya River and the canals of Thonburi by boat, a stark contrast to the frenzied modern Metropolis of Bangkok. Choose from 3 full-day tour options on your last day in Bangkok. 

ADVANCED BOOKINGS & ENQUIRIES

Our trips are designed for small groups which maximises our experience and the flexibility we have on the trip but it does also mean our trip fill quickly. Contact us and let us know if you'd like us to hold a space for you with an Advanced Booking of $500, fully transferable until we announce the expedition.  

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Combine: Myanmar Tribes - Mountains & Tribes Trek

NOV 2019  ●  8 DAYS ●  11 GUESTS

Take part in our exciting Myanmar Mountains & Tribes expedition right before the Burma trip. On this adventurous one week expedition, you’ll travel into some of Burma's remote and least-developed areas to visit hill tribes, see women adorned in taboo facial tattoos, visit bustling markets and trek to the summit of Mount Victoria, the highest mountain in Chin state, rising 3053 meters above sea level. Now protected by Nat Ma Taung National Park, Mount Victoria looms above a vast and pristine jungle and is one of the least developed areas of Myanmar. Be prepared for an adventurous journey visiting remote Chin hill tribes, exploring the subtropical flora and fauna and some great trekking with spectacular views 

 

 

PHOTO CREDIT © Thomas & Natalia Baechtold, Adobe Stock