Classic Myanmar Adventure

Classic Myanmar Adventure

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Classic Myanmar Adventure

14 Days Starting and ending in Yangon

Visiting: Yangon, Kin Pun Sakhan, Kyaiktiyo Pagoda, Kin Pun, Bago, Mingaladon Township, Mandalay Hill, Mandalay, Amarapura, Sagaing, Min Kun, Old Bagan, Bagan, Kalaw, Mount Popa, Shwenyaung, Nyaungshwe, Inle Lake, He Hoe

Tour operator:

G Adventures

Tour code:

22778

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

12 - 16

Physical rating:

2 - Light

Age range:

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.

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans

Tour operated in:
English

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

As a relative newcomer to adventure travel, exploring the mysterious nation of Myanmar (also known as Burma) often feels like setting foot on a foreign, untouched planet. With few other travellers to contend with, the natural and man-made wonders of this underexplored part of Southeast Asia often feel like they’ve been placed here just for you. And what wonders they are: Inle Lake’s unique floating gardens, the staggering imperial ruins of ancient Bagan, the incomparable palaces of Mandalay, and enveloping forests throughout. Unknown pleasures await — come find them.

Highlights

  • Visit the Shwedagon Pagoda

  • Experience the ancient ruins of Bagan

  • Relax at Inle Lake

  • Explore intriguing Yangon

  • Stroll Mandalay's temples

Places You'll See

Classic Myanmar Adventure

Classic Myanmar Adventure

Classic Myanmar Adventure

Classic Myanmar Adventure

Classic Myanmar Adventure

Classic Myanmar Adventure

Classic Myanmar Adventure

Classic Myanmar Adventure

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Yangon

Location: Yangon

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Grand United - Ahlone (or similar)

Meals Included: No Meals

Arrive at any time.

ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO 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.

Day 2 : Yangon/Kin Pun

Location: Yangon, Kin Pun Sakhan, Kyaiktiyo Pagoda

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Eternity Resort Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Visit the incredible Shwedagon Pagoda before heading up to Golden Rock and its pagoda at the top of Mt Kyaiktiyo. Take in a bird's eye view of the surroundings, before returning back to Kinpun.

Travel through the delta and over the Sittang River to Kin Pun. From Kin Pun, the pilgrimage road runs for 10km to the 1200m high pagoda on the famous Golden Rock. Ride a typical Myanmar passenger truck up the mountain, then hike a short distance to the summit to reach the Golden Rock Pagoda.

ACTIVITY: Enjoy your visit to this gorgeous pagoda, which is believed to be 2,500 years old. The central stupa, glittering in the soft morning light, is surrounded by dozens of intricately decorated buildings and statues and is considered to be the symbol of Yangon.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Hop into a typical Myanmar passenger truck and make your way up to the top of Mt Kyaiktiyo. Hike the final 20 minutes of your journey to the summit, where the Golden Pagoda awaits, balanced atop a granite boulder covered in gold leaf.

Day 3 : Kin Pun/Yangon

Location: Kin Pun, Bago, Mingaladon Township, Yangon

Accommodation: Hotel,

Accommodation Name: Hotel Yangon (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Travel back to Yangon, stopping in Mingaladon to see a reclining Buddha or the Htauk Kyant War memorial.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Spend time admiring this impressive open air Buddha.

Day 4 : Yangon/Mandalay

Location: Yangon, Mandalay Hill, Mandalay

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: The Hotel Nova (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Take an early flight to Mandalay and explore its ancient temples and sights, like the Golden Monastery.

Fly to Mandalay and visit the famous Golden Monastery (Shwenandaw), the only building still standing from the one hundred plus that once stood on the palace grounds. From here, visit the Kuthodaw Pagoda and look at its 729 marble slabs displaying the entire Buddhist canon.

After lunch, explore the Mahamuni Temple which houses the country´s holiest Buddha image, the 3.5m tall Arakan Buddha, made of bronze and gold leaf.

Later, visit the workshops of gold leaf and marble carvers. Opt to climb to the top of Mandalay Hill for a bird´s eye view and a visit to the Shwe Kyin Monastery for sunset.

TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

ACTIVITY: Enjoy your visit to this stunning monastery, known as the "Golden Monastery," that was originally part of the royal palace at Amarapura. Admire its delicate wood carvings of Buddhist myths. The monastery is a fantastic example of traditional Myanma architecture.

ACTIVITY: Visit this stunning pagoda with its gold and white buildings in a traditional Myanma style. Kuthodaw Pagoda is a Buddhist stupa that claims the honour of housing the world's largest book. A spiritually significant place for followers of Theravada Buddhism, this site will be fascinating to all visitors regardless of religion.

ACTIVITY: Visit the 100-year-old legendary Arakan Buddha, which stands at 3.5m (11.5 ft) tall. Made of bronze and covered in gold leaf, this gorgeous Buddha is a major pilgrimage site. Gaze up at the stunning statue and learn more about the significance of this temple.

ACTIVITY: Enjoy a sunset visit to Shwe Kyin Monastery -- it's one of the oldest and most important monasteries in the country. Every evening, visitors can watch the novice monks in procession, chanting as they go. Later, opt to clear your mind by joining the monks in meditation.

Day 5 : Mandalay

Location: Mandalay, Amarapura, Sagaing, Min Kun

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: The Hotel Nova (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Visit the nearby ancient royal capital of Amarapura. Opt to traverse the world's longest teak bridge. Visit the village of Mingun before returning to Mandalay.

Head out in the morning to visit the former capital of Amarapura (Sanskrit for "Beautiful Town"). Walk over the world´s longest teak bridge, U Bein, and visit Sagaing Hill for fascinating views over the pagodas and monasteries dotting the landscape down to the Ayeyarwady River.

In the afternoon travel by boat along the mighty Ayeyarwady River, enjoying sights of washerwomen, buffalo carts, and daily life along the riverbank. Visit the village of Mingun before returning to Mandalay for the evening.

ACTIVITY: Enjoy a walk on the U Bein Bridge, which is a 1km bridge in believed to be the oldest and longest teak bridge in the world. This bridge is still an important connection for the local people and is busiest during July and August when the lake is most full.
Built from reclaimed wood from a royal palace, there are 1,086 pillars rising from the water, though, not all are original.

ACTIVITY: Covered with 600 white-painted pagodas and monasteries, Sagaing Hill is widely regarded as the religious centre of Myanmar. It is home to 3,000 monks and 100 meditation centres. Visit pagodas such as Swan Oo Pon Nya Shin and U Min Thone Sae while in the area.

TRANSPORT: Hop the boat to Mingun village for the 1 hr ride across. After, take the same route back to Mandalay (2 hrs roundtrip).

Day 6 : Mandalay/Bagan

Location: Mandalay, Old Bagan

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Sincere Smile (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Transfer from Mandalay to ancient Bagan. Enjoy free time on arrival.

TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Day 7 : Bagan

Location: Bagan

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Sincere Smile (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a packed day learning about the culture and history of this once great civilization. Visit ancient sites that host hundreds of temples and stupas. Visit the Nyaung Oo market.

In the morning, wander through the marketplace of Nyaung Oo and get a glimpse of the lifestyle of the Myanma people. Next, visit Shwezigon Pagoda, the only golden pagoda in the Bagan area. Continue to the caves of Kyanzittha Umin.

In Gubyaukgyi, a perfect Indian-style temple, view hundreds of frescoes illustrating stories of the Buddha. Finally, visit the huge Htilominlo Temple.

In the afternoon, explore Manuha Temple before checking out the elaborate stone engravings at Nanpaya Temple.

Head south to witness the beautiful Abeyadama Temple and finally the Lawkananda Pagoda, a landmark of Ayeyarwady fishermen.

Visit traditional manufacturers of unique Bagan lacquerware and relax at one of the pagodas as the sun sets over Bagan.

ACTIVITY: Visit the colorful Nyaung Oo Market where, each day, the locals come to buy and sell fresh produce and other goods. It provides a window into everyday life in Bagan.

ACTIVITY: Visit this gorgeous pagoda that's thought to contain a bone and tooth of Gautama Buddha. The magnificent, circular, gold leaf stupa is surrounded by smaller temples and shrines, and the compound boasts a stone pillar with Mon language inscriptions.

ACTIVITY: Enjoy your visit to this red brick temple, which is 46m (150ft) tall and known for its elaborate plaster moldings. Make sure to view the four Buddhas on the temple that face each direction.

ACTIVITY: Explore this rectangular building well known for its three images of seated Buddhas and an image of Buddha entering Nirvana. It's one of the oldest temples in Bagan.

ACTIVITY: The Nanpaya Temple is one of four sandstone temples in the Bagan area. What makes it unique are the four pillars with stone reliefs of Brahma, the Hindu god of creation, carved onto them. You can still spot some original colour on the art today.

ACTIVITY: This charming pagoda is revered by local fisherman. Explore its lovely setting and look for the many small turtles living nearby. Lawkananda means "joy of the world" and contains a replica of a Buddha tooth relic.

ACTIVITY: Lacquerware is an art typical of Southeast Asia, originating in China. In Myanmar, the art form began around the 12th century in Bagan. Visit a shop to learn more about this intricate process and opt to pick up some gorgeous souvenirs for friends back home (or yourself).

Day 8 : Bagan

Location: Bagan

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Sincere Smile (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a free day and continue your exploration of this gorgeous area or take some time to relax.

If you plan to take a hot air balloon ride in Bagan, this is the best day to do it. Keep in mind this should be reserved in advance and the ballooning season is from Oct 1 to March 31 every year.

FREE TIME: FULL DAY Enjoy some free time.

Day 9 : Bagan/Kalaw

Location: Bagan, Kalaw, Mount Popa

Accommodation: Dream Villa (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Drive to the cooler air of Kalaw, a former British hill station, visiting Mt Popa en route.

Leave early to reach Kalaw. Journey through sun-parched plains sprinkled with Palmyra palms to the 'Mountain of Deities', Popa.

Climb a staircase (about 20 mins) up the huge volcanic rock to see shrines for Nats (celestial spirits of Myanma mythology) and small temples dedicated to the Buddha. On the climb up, pass many food stalls and shops selling herbal remedies.

Continue to Kalaw for the evening.

TRANSPORT: After two hours, stop for a visit to Mt Popa. Continue on for another six to reach Kalaw.

ACTIVITY: Learn more about this plant, which is important to Myanmar. It's also used to make palm wine.

ACTIVITY: Climb 20 min to the top of this volcanic rock and learn more about the shrines for Nats (celestial spirits of Myanma mythology). On the climb up, pass many food stalls and shops selling herbal remedies. During the visit, you may witness many Myanma paying their respects at this sacred spot.

Day 10 : Kalaw

Location: Kalaw

Accommodation: Dream Villa (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Stretch your legs with a hike through the scenic hills of Kalaw and enjoy an included lunch.

Explore the countryside whilst enjoying the cooler air at 1320m above sea level. Pass through tea plantations, citrus groves and tribal villages. Enjoy free time in the afternoon to explore Kalaw.

ACTIVITY: In the morning, transport up to the trailhead to commence the hike. Explore the countryside whilst enjoying the cooler air at 1320m above sea level. Pass through tea plantations, citrus groves and tribal villages. Savour a scenic lunch before returning to Kalaw by early afternoon.

FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Enjoy some free time.

Day 11 : Kalaw/Inle Lake

Location: Kalaw, Shwenyaung, Nyaungshwe, Inle Lake

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Paradise Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a free morning exploring Kalaw. In the afternoon, board the local train for a scenic journey to Inle Lake.

Enjoy a free morning to explore Kalaw's vibrant market or visit Aung Chan Tha Zedi, with its sparkling gold and silver glass mosaics, or the Hnee Pagoda with its 500-year-old bamboo Buddha.

After lunch, jump on board the local train to Lake Inle for an immersive journey through rural stations, stunning mountain scenery, and village life.

FREE TIME: Enjoy some free time in the morning to explore.

TRANSPORT: Take the slow train for a scenic trip through Myanmar's rural stations with views of the stunning mountains and village life.

TRANSPORT: Arrive to Nyuanshwe, the largest village in the Inle Lake area.

Day 12 : Inle Lake

Location: Inle Lake

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Paradise Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Explore the lake by boat and visit some of its floating villages. Try to spot the famous Intha leg-rowers during the tour.

Travel through a small creek by longtail boat to enjoy one of the most scenic boat tours in Inle Lake. The boat tour will go to Indein, at the western end of the Lake, where farmers can be observed cultivating their produce. Visit some of the intriguing floating villages and investigate the great Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda with its five holy Buddha images.

ACTIVITY: Visit the Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda monastery. While open to everyone, only men are allowed to place a gold leaf on the images. Look through the shops selling traditional Shan and Myanma items.

ACTIVITY: Jump in a boat and enjoy the ride on Inle Lake and its floating villages. Get a taste of the way of life in this unique location.

Day 13 : Inle Lake/Yangon

Location: Inle Lake, Nyaungshwe, He Hoe, Yangon, Yangon International Airport

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Grand United - Ahlone (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Fly back to Yangon for a final chance to explore and shop in the old capital. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a G Adventures-supported project.

After breakfast, board a flight back Yangon. The afternoon is free to explore the markets and sights of Yangon with plenty of time for some last minute shopping before dinner together at a G Adventures-supported project.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

TRANSPORT:

ACTIVITY: Indulge in a traditional Burmese culinary experience at LinkAge Restaurant and Art Gallery. A G Adventures-supported initiative, LinkAge provides skill-building opportunities to vulnerable youth, teaching them culinary skills as well as developing holistic and sustainable sources for social support such as housing and education. Visit the restaurant and experience the positive change taking place in this community.

Day 14 : Yangon

Location: Yangon

Meals Included: Breakfast

Depart any time.

What's Included

  • Your G for Good Moment: LinkAge Training Restaurant, Yangon

  • Mandalay combo entry ticket (includes most sights in Mandalay)

  • Shwedagon Pagoda visit (Yangon)

  • Reclining Buddha

  • Golden Rock visit

  • Bagan Archaeological Zone guided tour

  • Htauk Kyunt War memorial

  • Amarapura visit

  • Sagaing visit

  • Inle Lake boat tour including floating villages (half-day)

show more

What's Not Included

Transport

Private bus, public bus, plane, boat, walking.

Accommodation

Hotels (13 nts).

Meals Included

13 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

Check out our Q&As

  • Planeterra Foundation - the non-profit partner of G Adventures

    Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth access to employment opportunities, and protect the environment. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating their projects into G Adventures’ itineraries globally. G Adventures is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need. G Adventures Dollar-a-day Program - Make Every Day Count - Turn your travel into impact with Planeterra Foundation. Did you know? Most communities around the world do not benefit from tourism. Give back to the places you visit on your travels by creating opportunities for local people to earn an income, and protect the environment. Make every day count by donating $1/day for the length of your trip, and join us in empowering the communities you will visit when you travel. 100% of your donation goes directly to Planeterra projects.

  • Joining Instructions

    If you have not purchased an arrival transfer through G Adventures, upon arrival at Yangon International Airport the easiest way to get to the hotel is by taxi. There is a registered taxi stand at the exit gate of the arrivals hall where fixed rates can be paid. The airport is located approximately 30 minutes from the city centre and the rates are approximately 10-15 USD If you have paid in advance for an arrival transfer, a G Adventures representative will be at the airport to meet you. If for any reason you are not met at the airport, please call our local support line. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi. Please note that Day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned for that day other then your welcome meeting in the evening, so you can arrive at any time. Your CEO will organize a short meeting soon after arrival, during which you will meet other tour participants and receive information about general and specific aspects of the trip. A welcome note will be left for you in the hotel so you have all the necessary information regarding the meeting time. If you arrive late, s/he will leave you a message detailing what time and where you should meet the next morning.

  • Joining Hotel

    For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.

  • Group Size Notes

    Max 16, Avg 12.

  • Travel Insurance

    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 CEO, 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.

  • Solo Travellers

    We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

  • Local Flights

    All local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. It is important that we have your passport information at the time of booking in order to process these tickets. Internal flight tickets are issued locally and will be given to you prior to the flight departure.

  • Laundry

    Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap. Aboard the expedition ship Explorer laundry facilities are provided at a charge. Aboard the Amazon Explorer laundry facilities are provided free of charge for each passenger once a week.

  • Money Exchange

    During this tour the local currencies you will use are the Burmese Kyat and the US Dollar. As currency exchange rates in South East Asia do fluctuate, we ask that you refer to the following website for the most up to date daily exchange rates: www.xe.com for each of the above mentioned currencies. ATMs are available in every major town in Burma but they are not always accessible, may not be functioning or may be closed. We recommend bringing MINT CONDITION US dollars to Burma and exchanging it on arrival. See "Spending Money" for more information on budgeting. Travellers cheques can be tricky, timely and expensive to exchange. While we do not recommend that you bring them as your primary source of funds, it is great to have one or two cheques in case of emergency. Thomas Cook or American Express travellers' cheques in US currency are the easiest to exchange. Cash advances can also be made with some banks but are time consuming and tend to have high fees attached. Credit cards can be used at some upmarket restaurants, and at some larger stores if shopping for big items. When purchasing US dollars please make sure that the notes are new and in good condition. Notes older than 2003, or with any tears or blemishes may not be accepted. Be fussy with your bank when buying cash!

  • Meals

    13 Breakfasts

  • Meals Included

    13 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

  • Spending Money

    Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip: We recommend roughly 300-350 USD for spending money on this trip. This can be exchanged on Day 1 in Yangon with some advice from your CEO. This allowance would cover food, drinks, camera fees and most optional activities (except for the hot air balloon). If you are a keen shopper and/or drinker, we recommend budgeting a bit more for those activities. Please bring ONLY new, MINT CONDITION US dollars to Myanmar with you. Be specific with your bank when buying cash. If you are in the US, please be sure to go to your bank and request NEW bills- older bills with wrinkles, tears, rips, creases or marks will not be accepted.

  • Safety and Security

    Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your CEO has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your CEO will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions. Protests and Demonstrations- Protests and demonstrations, even those that are well intended, have the potential to turn violent with no warning. Counter protests can also turn violent. Action by security forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time. If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering, avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave the area immediately. Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards) have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s). Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. We take all prudent measures in relation to your safety. For ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling, please visit: www.gadventures.com/travel-resources/safety/

  • Itinerary Disclaimer

    While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

  • Tipping

    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 CEO 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 CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture. Also at the end of each trip if you felt your G Adventures CEO did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $20-25 USD per person, per week can be used.

  • Visas and Entry Requirements

    Please note that visas for Myanmar/Burma are the responsibility of the individual traveler - most countries must obtain a visa prior to travel. The visa requirements vary depending on nationality, you can find the full details at the Foreign Services website for your country, or at the Myanmar embassy/consulate closest to you. Please visit http://evisa.moip.gov.mm/ for the full details of the E-Visa approval letter process. The cost of the visa is approximately $50 USD. When filling in the form please enter the following: Purpose of Entry: Tourism Address in Myanmar: please use the start hotel for your tour (listed in the Joining Hotel section) Agency Name: SunBird Tours Agency Contact Number: 0095 1 293464/ 294050 The approval process may take up to 5 business days and the letter is valid for 90 days from the date of issue. Once the evisa approval letter is received by email, print out the approval letter and bring it with you to present upon arrival.

  • Feedback

    After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customerservice@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.

  • Group Leader Description

    All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEO). The aim of the CEO 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.

  • Packing List

    Conservative Dress: • Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders) • Shawl or scarf (for temple visits) Documents: • Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border) • Insurance info (required) (With photocopies) • Passport (required) (With photocopies) • Required visas or vaccination certificates (required) (With photocopies) • Vouchers and pre-departure information (required) Essentials: • 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 • 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 • Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable) • Watch and alarm clock • Waterproof backpack cover • Windproof rain jacket Health & Safety: • Face masks (required) • Hand sanitizer (required) • Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.) • Rubber gloves Warm Weather: • Sandals/flip-flops • Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended) • Sun hat/bandana • Swimwear

  • Dossier Disclaimer

    The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary. VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.

  • Arrival Complications

    We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your CEO (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your CEO, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.

  • Emergency Contact

    Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call the G Adventures Local Office and then our G Adventures Local Representative (if one is listed below). If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. AIRPORT TRANSFER  If you have purchased an arrival through G Adventures or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that: Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, we will do our best to rearrange your arrival transfer however we cannot guarantee this. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel.  EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS G Adventures Office Bangkok, Thailand During Office hours (Weekdays, 9am-5pm Local Time) From outside Thailand: +66 2 508 8630 From within Thailand: 02 508 8630 After hours emergency number: From outside Thailand: +66 87 049 6074 From within Thailand: 087 049 6074 G Adventures Local Representative (Burma) Emergency Number: +95 1 293 464 If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below, which will connect you directly with our 24 hour Sales team, who will happily assist you. Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100 Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000 Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000 Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618 Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307 Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999

  • Emergency Fund

    Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $250 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

  • Accommodation

    Hotels (13 nts).

  • Newsletter

    Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G Adventures, subscribe at www.gadventures.com/newsletters/ Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation – Planeterra. Sign up for Planeterra's monthly news to learn more about how to give back and support the people and places we love to visit.

  • Transport

    Private bus, public bus, plane, boat, walking.

  • What to Take

    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 your are expected to carry your own luggage. As a rule we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 mintues with your bags which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 10-15kg/22-30lb. Suitcases are not recommended for G Adventures trips! Most travellers carry a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size (no XXL ones please!) as they need to fit with you in buses or on trains. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water, cameras and other electronics like ipods and mobile phones. If your trip involves overnights in homestays, villages or camping then you usually have the opportunity to rent sleeping bags if need be instead of bringing them with you.

  • Optional Activities

    Mingaladon - Htauk Kyant War Memorial Cemetery Mandalay Hill - Mandalay Hill Climb Bagan - Ballooning in Bagan (Oct - Mar)

  • My Own Room

    Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops

  • Group Leader

    Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides.

  • A Couple of Rules

    Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.

  • Highlights

    Explore intriguing Yangon, visit the Shwedagon Pagoda, stroll Mandalay's temples, experience the ancient ruins of Bagan, relax at Inle Lake

  • Departure Tax

    You may be required to pay a departure tax of USD20 upon leaving Myanmar.

  • Health

    Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that sometimes we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our CEO's are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. In Asia pharmacies tend to stock the same western drugs as you get at home but they are usually produced locally so please bring the full drug name with you when trying to purchase a prescription drug. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. G Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our CEO they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.

  • 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.

  • What's Included

    Your G for Good Moment: LinkAge Training Restaurant, Yangon Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group. Shwedagon Pagoda visit (Yangon). Mandalay combo entry ticket (includes most sights in Mandalay). Golden Rock visit. Reclining Buddha. Htauk Kyunt War memorial. Amarapura visit. Sagaing visit. Bagan Archaeological Zone guided tour. Inle Lake boat tour including floating villages (half-day). Shwemawdaw Stupa visit. Mingun boat trip. Local slow train. U Bein Bridge visit. Mahagandayong Monastery visit. Sagaing Hills Meditation Centre visit. Mt Popa visit. Hilltribe hike (half-day). Internal flights. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

  • International Flights

    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.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    G Adventures was established in 1990

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/

Reviews of this operator

Lynsey M, UK  

Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires: Waterfalls & White Sands

08-Nov-2021

This tour was very good. I would reccomend it. It is great to see the difference in the three countries, Iguassu Falls definitely a highlight on my whole South America trip.

Connie McKain Albright  

Galapagos

10-Jan-2023

This was our first trip with G Adventures. We took the 8 day trip around Galapagos on their ship Yolita II. The guide, Adrienne, was knowledgeable and very pleasant. Each day had a variety of activities to choose from so you could fill your day or pick and choose what you wanted to do. The guide knew where to look for various animals so we saw an abundance of wildlife - lots of different sea birds, sea lions, a few kinds of iguanas, and many kinds of fishes. The only negative, and it's not G Adventures fault, is that the little ship rocks and rolls and night which can make sleeping challenging.

Trustpilot
Tina. G, Canada  

DAK

08-Nov-2021

The tour was great! Our guide Peter was very knowledgeable and gave us just the right amount of information about the sights and animals we were seeing. He was also very personable and had a great sense of humour. Our cook was great as well! They were both flexible and accomodated our requests to spend longer looking at some animals, to visit craft markets, etc. The lodge accommodations both inside and outside Kruger National Park were fantastic.

Sandra Salter  

I have taken four trips with G…

18-Dec-2022

I have taken four trips with G Adventures. The Guides have been so knowledgeable and friendly. Each trip has been thoroughly planned. The trips have been once in a lifetime experiences.

Trustpilot
Jil S, Canada  

Costa Rica Adventure

08-Nov-2021

The tour was excellent! I think there was something for everyone on this tour... lots of hiking and nature walks for nature lovers, a plethora of optional activities for the adventurous and lots of downtime for the ones who just want to relax. I loved it!

Fergus Lawrence Park   Uk

Sailing Thailand - Phuket to Phuket

18-Dec-2023

Fantastic trip overall with very efficient staff on board. Fantastic food throughout. Deluxe cabin was disappointing and not as advertised and many problems with the air conditioning in our cabin meant we had 2 sleepless nights.

Fergus Lawrence Park   Uk

Sailing Thailand - Phuket to Phuket

18-Dec-2023

Fantastic trip overall with very efficient staff on board. Fantastic food throughout. Deluxe cabin was disappointing and not as advertised and many problems with the air conditioning in our cabin meant we had 2 sleepless nights.

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 45 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    G Adventures allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform g adventures, 45 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

  • Travel With Confidence Policy

    Our Travel with Confidence policy was created to highlight the measures G Adventures has taken in
    response to the increased focus on health and safety, mask-wearing, hygiene and physical distancing
    coming out of the pandemic. This policy complements our Book with Confidence policy - which
    provides additional flexibility and freedom for your travellers during the booking phase - and will, we
    believe, provide additional reassurance to those considering travel to travel with us. The safety of
    your travellers has always been our top priority, which is why new physical distancing and cleaning
    measures have been put in place on all of our tours. Our Travel with Confidence policy features
    health and safety procedures from the moment your travellers arrive on tour to the moment they
    leave, without taking away from having the time of their lives. While on tour, it is a requirement that
    your travellers follow the directions of their CEO at all times to help keep their fellow group-mates
    safe, as well as local residents. The policy will evolve as time goes on and as we continue to monitor
    local public health recommendations, but what won’t change is our commitment to keeping your
    travellers safe as they explore our big, beautiful world.

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