Southeast Asia: Bangkok, Laos & The Cardamom Mountains

Southeast Asia: Bangkok, Laos & The Cardamom Mountains

• Trip code: 4L1X013
• Dauer: 21
• Stil: The Geluxe Collection

Cambodia, Thailand, and Laos are calling your name on this unforgettable three-week Geluxe adventure. Witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Angkor complex and retreat to an exclusive tented camp in Cambodia’s remote Cardamom Mountains. In Thailand, explore bustling Bangkok with a serene Chaophraya River cruise, relax on stunning islands, and uncover the poignant history of Kanchanaburi while staying in the unique floating accommodations of the Floathouse River Kwai. Dive into Chiang Rai’s vibrant culture with a street food tour before crossing into Laos for a scenic slow-boat journey along the Mekong River. Get off the beaten path in Laos, discovering remote, welcoming villages, trekking to secluded waterfalls, visiting iconic temples, and indulging in mouthwatering local cuisine. Three weeks will fly by but we guarantee you'll feel recharged and your sense of adventure renewed.

Übersicht

Accommodation

Hotels (18 nts), Deluxe Tented Camp (2nts)

Checklist

Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)

Essentials:
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• 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)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Hand sanitizer
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)

Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear

Group Leader

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) and local guides throughout

Group Size Notes

Max 15, avg 12

Highlights

Khmer cooking class in a Cambodian village, Sunrise tour of Angkor Wat, Trekking and Glamping in the Cardamom Mountains, Guided Kayak tour in Koh Chang, Foodie progressive meal tour in Bangkok, Bangkok Dinner Cruise, Hellfire Pass and Thai-Burma Railway Centre explorations, Chiang Rai street food tour, 2-day slow-boat along the Mekong, Cultural Immersion in northern Laos, Canopy Hanging bridges of Nam Kat, Alms giving in Luang Prabang

Introduction

Cambodia, Thailand, and Laos are calling your name on this unforgettable three-week Geluxe adventure. Witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Angkor complex and retreat to an exclusive tented camp in Cambodia’s remote Cardamom Mountains. In Thailand, explore bustling Bangkok with a serene Chaophraya River cruise, relax on stunning islands, and uncover the poignant history of Kanchanaburi while staying in the unique floating accommodations of the Floathouse River Kwai. Dive into Chiang Rai’s vibrant culture with a street food tour before crossing into Laos for a scenic slow-boat journey along the Mekong River. Get off the beaten path in Laos, discovering remote, welcoming villages, trekking to secluded waterfalls, visiting iconic temples, and indulging in mouthwatering local cuisine. Three weeks will fly by but we guarantee you'll feel recharged and your sense of adventure renewed

Meals Included

21 Frühstück, 13 Mittagessen, 13 Abendessen

Meal Budget

Plane USD125-165 für nicht inbegriffene Mahlzeiten ein

Optional Activities

Nong Khiaw
- Som Nang View Point

Start / Finish

Siem Reap nach Luang Prabang

Transport

Private vehicle, plane, walking, tuk-tuk, longtail boat, slow boat, public bus, public ferry, high speed train

What's Included

Dein G-for-Good-Moment: Dinner at Spoons Restaurant, Siem Reap
Dein Welcome-Moment: Anreise und Begrüßungstreffen
Your OMG Day: Sunset Bike Ride or Half-day Tour of Kampong Khleang Floating Village, Siem Reap
Dein Foodie-Moment: Cooking Class, Siem Reap
Your OMG Day: Golden Triangle Cycle or Doi Tung Tea Experience, Chiang Rai
Dein Foodie-Moment: Nam Kat Cooking Class, Nam Kat
Dein Discover-Moment: Luang Prabang. Complimentary Arrival Transfer. Welcome Dinner. Angkor Wat sunrise visit. Cooking class in the Cambodian countryside. Kayak & Trek in the Cardamom Mountains. Full day Kayak Excursion in Koh Chang. Bangkok Progressive Dinner Experience (Farewell Dinner). Bangkok Dinner Cruise. Hellfire Pass and Thai-Burma Railway Centre explorations. Floating accommodation in Kanchanaburi. Chiang Rai street food tour. 2-day slow-boat along the Mekong. Som Nang Viewpoint hike. Cultural Immersion at Nayangtai village in northern Laos. Canopy Hanging bridges of Nam Kat. Alms giving in Luang Prabang. Internal airfare. Tips are included for all included meals and activities, except for CEO and porterage. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Minimum Age 18+

The minimum age for this trip is 18 years

Itinerary

Day 1 Siem Reap: Welcome to the Community

Your chariot awaits. So, it's not technically a chariot, it's a tuk-tuk. But not any tuk-tuk. Your drivers are women from the Lady Tuk-Tuk drivers cooperative. This group was founded to provide women in Siem Reap the opportunity to earn an income and support themselves, their families and their communities. Hop aboard, whizz through Siem Reap en route to another community tourism initiative, Spoons Restaurant. Welcome to Siem Reap, and to Cambodia, we invite you to become part of the community

Day 2 Siem Reap: Your OMG Day

It's possible that there is no quicker way to understand a culture than by cooking and eating. Spend the morning in the local market with a chef, smelling and tasting the local ingredients. Continue on to Chreav village just outside of Siem Reap and join the chef in cooking some delicious local dishes. With a full belly, the afternoon is yours to choose between a sunset bike ride from village to village, or a scenic boat tour to Kampong Khleang Floating Village

Day 3 Siem Reap: Sunrise Angkor Wat

The ruins of Angkor Wat stand as a testament to the dynamic history of the Cambodian people. Though they, like all ruined structures, are little by little being reclaimed by the jungle around them, luckily for us they defiantly remain standing ready to be admired. Witness sunrise at Angkor Wat with your fellow travellers and expert guide

Day 4 Cardamom Mountains: Into the Jungle

Established in 1993, The Botum Sakur National Park in southern Cambodia, home to the Cardamom Mountains, has been continuously threatened by illegal logging and the poaching of endangered wildlife. The dense jungle of the Cardamoms is one of Asia's seven remaining elephant corridors and is home to gibbons, pangolins and hornbills. This remote and wild place is being protected by an alliance between a number of organizations, and our exclusive stay at Cardamom Tented Camp helps fund the Wildlife Alliance and its partners in protecting this vital piece of our planet

Day 5 Cardamom Mountains: Trekking and Kayaking

Waking up in the jungle, in a safari style glamping tent, with the sound of the birds and the monkeys rustling overhead is probably not an experience you associate with Cambodia, but from now on it will be. After a refreshing sleep, it's time to explore the Cardamoms. Kayak downriver first en route to the old ranger station. Trek through the lush forest on old logging trails, crossing streams from time to time. Your local Cambodian guides let you in on the history of this special place while you explore

Day 6 Koh Rong: Island Paradise

When ancient seafarers first caught sight of Koh Rong’s shores, they were captivated by its beauty, naming it after a mythical cave or "shelter" found within its lush, emerald interior. While its white-sand beaches are world-renowned, the island’s heart is a thriving dense rainforest with hidden lagoons teeming with tropical birdlife and rare butterflies. Some of Koh Rong remains an untouched paradise, and your time on this island begins with free time to discover the island's energetic towns and sun-drenched coves

Day 7 Koh Rong: Waterfall Hike & Kayak Exploration

Cambodia shines in this full day exploration of Koh Rong's natural interior and coastal ecosystems. A morning trek leads you through the rainforest, immersing you in the island's vibrant flora and fauna, and in season toward a secluded waterfall. After a break for lunch, the adventure continues with a guided kayaking excursion deep into the quiet, winding mangroves, offering a unique perspective of the island's serene, sheltered waters

Day 8 Phnom Penh: Remork Rides and the Tonle Sap River

After departing Koh Rong, arrive in Phnom Penh, the City of Four Faces. Nestled on the confluence of the Mekong, Bassac and Tonle Sap rivers, Phnom Penh is the "four faces" where these mighty waterways meet to breathe life into the kingdom. With the traditions of the Khmer Empire blended with a French colonial metropolis, this unique city showcases its vibrant energy while honoring its dark past. Set out on a remork-moto tour - quintessential Cambodian transport, visiting spots like the Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda and Wat Ounalom before a dinner on the Tonle Sap river

Day 9 Phnom Penh to Bangkok: Riverboat Cruising

Life along Bangkok’s canals is a mix of old traditions and daily hustle. Discover why this city is often called the “Venice of the East” as our cruise introduces us to its charming and historic canal lifestyle. Scenes of classical wooden-framed homes on stilts, mothers doing their daily washings, and kids splashing away the tropical heat will captivate us along the ride. The Chao Phraya River, central to Bangkok, offers a glimpse of the city's harmonious blend of culture and urban energy, with its shimmering temples and modern skyline standing side by side

Day 10 Bangkok to Kanchanaburi: Death Railway Train

Begin your Thailand explorations by heading north to Kanchanaburi. Explore the Thai-Burma Railway Centre, an interactive museum dedicated to sharing the history of the railway to those who visit. Ride the Death Railway train over the steep cliffs and visit the famous Bridge over the river Kwai. As your Kanchanaburi explorations conclude, board a long tail boat to reach our floating accommodation for the next two evenings

Day 11 Kanchanaburi: The River Kwai

Named for the torturous and hellish-like conditions in which the workers toiled away on the railway, Hellfire Pass and it's namesake interpretive centre offer an incredible glimpse into this pivotal time in global history. Spend some time at the centre and then trek out to Hintok Cutting to experience the trail itself, and imagine what it might have been like for those workers. To cool off after the humidity of the morning, board a flat bottomed raft to float lazily back to your floating accommodation. Want to get a bit of exercise? Paddle yourself upstream a bit and race your neighbor. Enjoy a hearty lunch back at the lodge after working up an appetite

Day 12 Kanchanaburi to Chiang Rai: The Land of Flowers

Onward and upward today, quite literally. Flying north to Chiang Rai brings us to our last stop in Thailand and the opportunity to experience the unique culture of northern Thailand. Join your CEO and a local expert guide for a foodie walking tour designed to introduce you to some of the regions most famous dishes. Sample Sai Ou, a type of sausage from Laos and northern Thailand and douse everything in Nam Prik, chili sauce with lime, shrimp paste and garlic. You'll sample over ten types of food and drink, so there's almost a guarantee you'll identify your new favorite Thai food item before the night concludes

Day 13 Chiang Rai: OMG Day

With so much to explore in Chiang Rai, there is no wrong way to spend your OMG Day. If you are looking for some exercise, get out on two wheels and explore Chiangsaen and the Golden Triangle area on a guided cycling tour. Visit an Opium Museum that gives context to the naming of the 'Golden Triangle' as you cycle through rice, cassava and pineapple fields. If you relish taking things at a less active pace, join some fellow travelers on an incredible Tea Journey. Head to an area one dominated-and destroyed by- the aforementioned Opium trade, and witness how it has been transformed into a thriving landscape of tea plantations. Join an expert guide as you learn all about tea blending and dipping, and sample some of the local blends. Enjoy an outdoor picnic lunch-with a cup of tea of course

Day 14 Thailand to Laos: Float down the Mekong River

Bid farewell to beautiful Thailand as you board a private chartered slow boat in Laos to cruise along the Mekong River. Spend the day aboard the boat relaxing, snapping photos and taking in life along the Mekong from your unique vantage point. Dine on a delicious lunch aboard and disembark in the late afternoon to make your way to your comfortable hotel in Pak Beng

Day 15 Mekong River Float: Pak Beng to Nong Khiaw

A final morning on board the slow boat means a few final opportunities for photos of the famous Pak Ou caves and a final lunch on board as your slow boat expedition comes to an end. Journey into Laos further as you head to Nong Khiaw, an area of Laos not yet overly popular with international tourists. After two days of relative relaxation, choose to stretch your legs and see Nong Khiaw's undeniable beauty on a hike to the Som Nang viewpoint. Sunset from the viewpoint is spectacular, and worth the half an hour walk

Day 16 Traditional Laotian Communities: Nayangtai and Sopkhong Village Experiences

Nayangtai Village welcomes you this morning for an immersion into the local Tai Lue community. Participate in the Baci Sou Kwan ceremony, a cultural and spiritual traditions of the Tai Lue tribe, and then join local artisans to learn about local pottery making and bamboo weaving. In the afternoon, board a traditional boat to ride upstream to Ban Sopkhong village, where a short trek brings you to a beautiful waterfall. Take some time to refresh yourself in the waterfall before returning back to the village and back downstream to your hotel on the riverside

Day 17 Pha Daeng Peak: Sunrise Hike

If you are naturally early riser, take advantage of a guided hike to witness sunrise over Pha Daeng peak. This moderate hike features some challenging areas but hikers are rewarded with incredible views over Nong Khiaw and surrounds as the sun pops into the sky. If you are keen for a rest this morning, recharge your batteries with a later start and rejoin your fellow travelers for breakfast after the hike. Our explorations of Laos continue as we head further north to Nam Kat Yorla Pa, a protected forestry area along the Nam Kat river. Grab a few local items at the Muang Xai market before reaching the hotel

Day 18 Nam Kat: Jungle Trek & Cooking Class

Witness some of Laos most stunning jungle foliage on a walk over 13 hanging bridges constructed throughout the protected area. These bridges bring you to a secluded waterfall where you will have time to swim and enjoy the sounds of nature around you. Enjoy some time at leisure in the afternoon to explore further on a hike or if you are in need of an adrenaline rush, a zipline through the canopy. Join together for an evening cooking class with your CEO and fellow travelers

Day 19 Nam Kat to Luang Prabang: A UNESCO Town

After a final morning and breakfast among the lushness of northern Laos, travel south on a high-speed train to Luang Prabang. Spend time exploring on foot with your CEO at the night market in the evening

Day 20 Spiritual Laos: Alms Giving & Baci Ceremony

Choose to rise early this morning and join your CEO to witness and participate in the almsgiving practice near your hotel. Your CEO will guide you through the Luang Prabang market as it begins to open up, allowing for a less chaotic look at some of the more unusual items on offer. Return to the hotel for a hearty breakfast and choose to spend the day as you choose. Your CEO will offer to guide you on an excursion to the Kuang Si waterfall and Ban Ou, or choose to explore this UNESCO World Heritage area at your own pace. To celebrate a final evening together, join your CEO and fellow travelers for a dinner in the local community. You are welcomed with a traditional ceremony, offering blessings for your onward journeys upon leaving the country. Join your local hosts to help make lemongrass stuffed with pork and dine together on an indulgent meal

Day 21 Luang Prabang

Your adventure comes to an end, and you can depart at any time today

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Siem Reap: Welcome to the Community

Spoons Restaurant hosts your first meal in Cambodia. This restaurant provides vocational training for young people in the service industry, while of course, serving up delicious specialties like Num Kruk, a corn and coconut crisply dumpling, and Steak Lok Lak. Dig in and do good.

Day 2 Siem Reap: Your OMG Day

Your OMG Day begins with an exclusive cooking experience in Chreav village, just a short tuk-tuk ride outside Siem Reap. In the afternoon you can choose between an exhilarating cycle through small villages, ending just in time to take in a peaceful sunset over the rice paddies with a cold drink. If you are looking to take it a bit easier, hop on a boat ride to the magnificent Tonle Sap. The boat will travel to Kampong Khleang floating village, passing by stilt houses, witnessing daily life and observing the marine flora and fauna along the way.

Day 3 Siem Reap: Sunrise Angkor Wat

Your new friends from the Lady Tuk-Tuk cooperative greet you again just before sunrise to zoom you to Angkor Wat. Enjoy a magical sunrise over the ruins and then continue on exploring Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm with your local guide. The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy a well-deserved bit of rest, or a dip in the pool.

Day 4 Cardamom Mountains: Into the Jungle

After a short flight and transfer West, board a small boat to head down the Prek Tachan river. Spot birds overhead as you make the half hour journey to camp. Cardamom Tented Camp is our home for our jungle expedition the next two days, and a homemade Cambodian meal awaits you after settling into your tent. Oh, and don't forget to look up-the nighttime sky here is out of this world. (See what we did there?)

Day 5 Cardamom Mountains: Trekking and Kayaking

After a morning of exploration, return to camp for another home cooked Cambodian meal. The afternoon offers you some much deserved leisure time to enjoy this remote paradise. Swim in the river or kayak the narrow tributaries looking for birdlife.

Day 6 Koh Rong: Island Paradise

Take a boat to Koh Rong and explore the island with your CEO in the afternoon. A BBQ seafood dinner is the perfect way to celebrate your first evening on the island.

Day 7 Koh Rong: Waterfall Hike & Kayak Exploration

This full day adventure offers plenty of opportunity to enjoy the island paradise that Koh Rong offers. Hike to a beautiful waterfall (in season) followed by professional kayak guides leading an adventure through the mangroves.

Day 8 Phnom Penh: Remork Rides and the Tonle Sap River

Depart Koh Chang, returning to Cambodia mainland. Drive to Phnom Penh for an exciting evening in the city.

Day 9 Phnom Penh to Bangkok: Riverboat Cruising

Fly from Phnom Penh to Bangkok. Take a tour of Bangkok's klongs (canals) on a local riverboat, ending at the famous Wat Pho temple with time to explore. After a free afternoon, join an evening dinner cruise up the Chao Phraya River. An evening full of delicious food and incredible views.

Day 10 Bangkok to Kanchanaburi: Death Railway Train

Day 11 Kanchanaburi: The River Kwai

Day 12 Kanchanaburi to Chiang Rai: The Land of Flowers

Day 13 Chiang Rai: OMG Day

Day 14 Thailand to Laos: Float down the Mekong River

Day 15 Mekong River Float: Pak Beng to Nong Khiaw

Day 16 Traditional Laotian Communities: Nayangtai and Sopkhong Village Experiences

Day 17 Pha Daeng Peak: Sunrise Hike

Day 18 Nam Kat: Jungle Trek & Cooking Class

Day 19 Nam Kat to Luang Prabang: A UNESCO Town

Day 20 Spiritual Laos: Alms Giving & Baci Ceremony

Day 21 Luang Prabang