Southeast Asia: Hilltribes & Street Food

21 Days
From CAD $1,986 Was CAD $2,649
Best Rate
Guarantee
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Average

Rating


(20 reviews)

Experience Overview

Now's the time to explore Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore on your terms with this tour that's affordable for young travellers. Feast on mouth-watering laksa at the night market in Kuala Lumpur, explore the hilltribes of northern Thailand by foot, and mellow out on the white-sand beaches of the sunny south. Get the freedom of roaming where you want, between highlights and must-sees, and experience this side of Southeast Asia like never before.

Highlights

  • Explore some of Asia's largest cities
  • Travel by traditional bamboo raft
  • Trek on foot to visit remote hilltribe villages
  • Enjoy Thai beach life in Ko Samui
  • Visit tea plantations of the Cameron Highlands
  • Sample Singapore's street food
  • Hike or relax in Khao Sok National Park

Trip Details

Product CodeProduct Code: 1586

Tour TypeTour Type: Small Group

AccommodationAccommodation: Basic

TransportTransport: Local bus, minibus, train, walking, river raft, ferry.

Guide LanguageGuide Language: English

Travel StylesTravel Styles: 18 - 39 Year Olds Only

Supplier CodeSupplier Code: ATRA

StartStarts: Bangkok, Thailand

FinishFinishes: Singapore, Singapore

DurationDuration: 21 days

DeparturesDepartures: Guaranteed

Physical RatingPhysical rating: Average

Includes

Activities

  • Your G for Good Moment: Kao Thep Pitak Community-Owned Farm & Meal, Ban Ta Khun Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends Your Discover Moment: Bangkok Your Discover Moment: Chiang Mai Your Big Night Out Moment: Chiang Mai Celebration, Chiang Mai Your Big Night Out Moment: Koh Samui, Koh Samui Your Local Living Moment: Chenderoh Lake Homestay, Chenderoh Lake
  • Hilltribe trek
  • Bamboo rafting
  • Ang Thong National Marine Park island hopping tour
  • Two street food crawls
  • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodation

  • Simple hotels (twin-share) (11 nts), hostels (multi-share) (2 nts), basic lodge (1 nt), basic hilltribe huts (2 nts, multi-share), sleeper trains (3 nts), pod hotel (1 nt).
  • 15 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners

Transport

  • Local bus, minibus, train, walking, river raft, ferry.

Group Leader

  • CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.

Price

Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $1986 (CAD $95 /day)

Itinerary

1

Day 1: Bangkok

Arrive at any time and welcome to Bangkok - Thailand's bustling capital!

This evening, the famous Khao San Road is on the itinerary for your first night out. Explore this buzzing traveller hub with your CEO and check out the lively bars and dance parties that line the street. Grab a Thai beer or tea and connect with your fellow travellers. Don't forget to sample local delicacies, and try a deep fried scorpion if you dare!


Exclusive inclusions: 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.Activity - Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.Accommodation - New Siam 2

2

Day 2: Bangkok/Chiang Mai

This tour is off to a colourful start with a day to freely explore Bangkok. Visit Wat Pho, the Grand Palace, National Museum, or Jim Thompson's House. Try a riverboat trip along the Chao Phraya River and through the canals (or klongs) for a different perspective of daily life in this busy city. Tonight, you'll take the overnight train to Chiang Mai.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Get out and explore bustling Bangkok!Transport - Experience overnight travel like a local. Sit back and get some well-earned (and likely much-needed) rest en route to your next stop.

3

Day 3: Chiang Mai

Make sure you've got room for more than three meals today, because you're heading to the best street food spots in Chiang Mai. Besides eating, there's lots to do here — like a visit to Doi Suthep temple or taking it easy with a soak in the Sankampang Hot Springs.


Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Get out and explore this bustling city in northern Thailand.Activity - Bring your appetite and your wallet. The CEO will bring the group to the best spots to eat and teach everyone about the local street food. Yum!Accommodation - Chiang Mai Gate Hotel

4

Day 4: Chiang Mai/Ban Mae Jok

It's time for a change of pace. Today, drive from Chiang Mai to Mae Malai village, where you'll set off on a trek through rugged forests to see how diverse this region of hilltribe communities really is. Every village you'll see has its own language, belief system, style of dress, and traditions. It's a few hours to the first village of hilltribe thatch bungalows, but every step is worth it as you get to know the lay of the land.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Hop into the back and ride along to the next destination.Activity - Hit the road in an open pickup truck for Mae Malai where there is time to visit a local market to purchase food and snacks. Start the trek through forests and rugged terrain to Baan Mae Jok, a Karen village.

5

Day 5: Ban Mae Jok/Pa Khao Lam

Trek for 2–3 hours before stopping for lunch. Then head to a Karen village to see how traditional blankets and scarves are made. Keep trekking for a few more hours (you've got this!) before stopping in the next village for the night.

Along the way, you might get the chance to stop at Mae Tang River to learn to fish using local tools or build a raft using bamboo.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - After breakfast, trek 3.5-4 hrs to reach the lunch stop. Take in the beautiful scenery along the way. Enjoy lunch before carrying on another hour or so to the Karen village of Ban Pa Khao Lam.

6

Day 6: Pa Khao Lam/Chiang Mai

After breakfast, leave the village by bamboo raft and get a closer look at other villages along the way. Meet the van after lunch and head back to Chiang Mai, a foodie's paradise. Try the city's most famous dishes like khao soi (noodles in curry broth) and sai oua (northern Thai sausage) and get ready for your big night out. Venture to the best bar in town to cheers to a completed trek and life-changing adventures!

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Board the traditional bamboo raft for a leisurely ride down the Mae Tang River. Reach the Lahu hill tribe village near Ban Pong Ngan. Enjoy a visit with the locals here and learn about the life and unique culture of the Lahu tribe.Activity - Take a bamboo raft down the Mae Tan River for one hour journey to a Lahu village to witness a lifestyle that dates hundreds of years. Activity - Board a traditional bamboo raft and enjoy a ride through some small rapids on the Mae Tang River. Transport - Hop into the back and ride along to the next destination.Activity - Tonight's the night to celebrate all the wild and humbling adventures you've just shared with new friends. Head out into the city and reminisce the night away!Accommodation - Chiang Mai Gate Hotel

7

Day 7: Chiang Mai/Bangkok

Make the most of Chiang Mai with more free time, where you can go shopping in the market, get a Thai massage, or explore any of the many temples. Or, hey, you could always go back for another taste of khao soi curry. Tonight, catch up on sleep during an overnight train and wake up in Bangkok.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Enjoy a final day to check out Chiang Mai.Transport - Experience overnight travel like a local. Sit back and get some well-earned (and likely much-needed) rest en route to your next stop.

8

Day 8: Bangkok

Get out and explore this fantastic city where there is endless sightseeing to be done.


Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Get out and explore bustling Bangkok.Accommodation - New Siam 2

9

Day 9: Bangkok/Surat Thani

Get on first-name basis with Thailand's capital city by bike with an optional bike tour. Today, you can check out Wat Pho and the Grand Palace, go for a street food crawl, relax with a Thai massage, or explore the klongs (canals) by boat before boarding the overnight train.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Get out and explore Thailand's capital city. Transport - Experience overnight travel like a local. Sit back and get some well-earned (and likely much-needed) rest en route to your next stop.

10

Day 10: Surat Thani/Khao Sok

See southern Thai hospitality in action with breakfast at G Adventures-supported Khao Thep Pitak Community-Owned Farm & Restaurant, where you can also meet other international visitors. Later on, enjoy free time. Opt to go to Lake Cheow Lan where you can take in the views while hiking or swimming in the national park. Spend tonight falling asleep to the sweet sounds of the jungle.

This area is known for its natural beauty. You know what that means: lots of chances for photos.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.Free_time - Get out and explore the natural beauty of the area.Activity - 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.Accommodation - Khaosok Rainforest Resort

11

Day 11: Khao Sok/Koh Samui

Your next stop is just a ferry ride away. Today, explore Ko Samui Island's beauty by catching the sunset at Chaweng Beach before eating your weight in street food at the night market. For your big night out, you'll celebrate life-changing adventures and dance the night away.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Transport - Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.Free_time - Head to the beach to splash around or relax in the sand.Activity - Head to the beach and immerse yourself in Koh Samui's nightlife paradise. Cheers to all the amazing adventures you've already shared with newfound friends, then see where the night takes you!Accommodation - COSI Samui Chaweng Beach

12

Day 12: Koh Samui

Take a scenic day trip to pristine Ang Thong National Marine Park. As a protected nature area consisting of over 40 islands, the views here are unforgettable — perfect for making friends back home jealous. Try to spot all the different kinds of marine life and explore above the water by foot or below the water by snorkel. Be forewarned: it might take you all day to take in all this beauty.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Ang Thong National Marine Park is a protected nature area consisting of over 40 islands. All of the islands are uninhabited and undeveloped except for one. This full-day leisure excursion through the astonishing archipelago offers many different experiences including hiking, snorkeling by the beach, and sightseeing.Accommodation - COSI Samui Chaweng Beach

13

Day 13: Koh Samui/George Town

Gear up for a long day of travel. Ferry back to the mainland and continue by private vehicle to cross the border into Malaysia and on to George Town, Penang.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.Accommodation - Loop On Leith Hotel Penang

14

Day 14: George Town

Get a full day in Penang. Explore the busy streets and check out the colourful famous street art. Trust us: they make for a great backdrop!

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Get in touch with nature or walk around a museum and learn more about the history of Malaysia.Accommodation - Loop On Leith Hotel Penang

15

Day 15: George Town/Chenderoh Lake

Learn about local culture (especially how to properly tie a sarong!) at this island homestay, nestled in the middle of a beautiful lake. Tonight, relax as you take in the scenery and connect with the family that runs this homestay.

Meals included: Breakfast,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Experience all the charm of a traditional “kampung” or village at this quaint homestay. Made up of repurposed old wooden homes, this lakeside retreat offers picturesque scenery and the opportunity to interact with locals. Opt to trek, kayak, fish, or just kick back and relax in a hammock.Accommodation - Suka Suka Homestay

16

Day 16: Chenderoh Lake/Cameron Highlands

Enjoy slightly cooler temperatures in the Cameron Highlands. Here, explore the well-marked trails through the lush tropical forest, visit a tea plantation, or search for the rafflesia: the world's largest flower.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.Free_time - Use free time to enjoy and explore this mountainous region.Accommodation - Father's Guest House

17

Day 17: Cameron Highlands/Kuala Lumpur

Today is yours to take on. Walk around and explore, but don't skip trying the national dish of Malaysia, nasi lemak — a traditional rice dish made with coconut milk and pandan leaf.

Once the sun sets, see another side to the city as you stop by the famous Petronas Towers (which light up at night) before checking out the local nightlife.


Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.Free_time - Get out and explore bustling Kuala Lumpur.Accommodation - Pacific Express Hotel Central Market

18

Day 18: Kuala Lumpur

You've got the whole day for exploring. Head out of town to visit the famous Batu Caves or the Orang Alsi Museum. Later tonight, head to some rooftop bars for drinks and dancing, or stop by the night market and find some flavours you never knew existed.

Built in 1928 as a fresh market for locals, and revamped in the 1980s as an outlet for all Malaysian handicrafts, the night market is a local institution. Make sure you don't miss it.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Free time to explore the city or landmarks nearby like the Batu Caves. Accommodation - Pacific Express Hotel Central Market

19

Day 19: Kuala Lumpur/Melaka

Today is your day to take on the canals by boat, and see a different side of this old port town. Maybe stop for some famous chicken rice at Kedai Kopi Chung Wah in Chinatown. Locals love it here; they often line up for hours to get a taste.

The streets of Chinatown (also known as Jonker Walk) are also lined with Peranakan (Straits Chinese) shophouses offering their traditional cuisine, Nyonya. Explore the many temples, churches, mosques, museums, and forts.
Visit the old port town of Melaka, wander the narrow streets and absorb the atmosphere of this historically important town. The streets of Chinatown are lined with Peranakan (Straits Chinese) shophouses offering their traditional cuisine, Nyonya. There are temples, churches and mosques, museums and forts to explore.


Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.Free_time - After arriving in Melaka, spend free time exploring on foot or by boat. Accommodation - Fenix Inn

20

Day 20: Melaka/Singapore

Head to Singapore today, where you can use your free time to see that famous skyline by boat or eat so much street food, you can barely walk. For a peek into the city-state's past life, wander the old streets of Little India and Chinatown.


Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.Activity - Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.Free_time - Free time to see wildlife on a safari or get a taste of Singapore at some of the many hawker stands. Accommodation - Galaxy Pod, Boat Quay Singapore

21

Day 21: Singapore

Today, it's time to say goodbye to your group of newfound friends. Be sure to sneak in some last-minute photos and cheers before you head on your way.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.

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Tour Operator

G Adventures

G Adventures, founded in 1990 by Bruce Poon Tip, is a global adventure travel company specializing in small-group tours that emphasize authentic, sustainable, and culturally immersive experiences. Originally launched as GAP Adventures (“Great Adventure People”), the company pioneered the concept of community-driven travel by offering affordable trips that connect travelers with local communities while minimizing environmental impact. Today, G Adventures operates in more than 100 countries, offering a wide range of itineraries across themes such as active adventures, wildlife, wellness, family, and National Geographic–partnered tours, while maintaining a strong commitment to responsible tourism and social enterprise through its Planeterra Foundation.

In Business Since 1990

Reviews

 

Blair H.   -  Traveled, November 2023

It feels like the right balance of activities and down time. Though could do with less early starts

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 12/21/2023

 

Mandichhya G.   -  Traveled, November 2023

We had an amazing time and made friends with amazing people. Our CEO were super helpful and friendly and very knowledgeable.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 12/06/2023

 

Subha G.   -  Traveled, November 2023

I had 2 tour guides during my first trip with G Adventures and both of them were very great at their jobs and very informative. I take time to mingle with people but this trip came up with new friends from different parts of the world along with unforgettable memories.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 12/06/2023

 

Camilla Frogset A.   -  Traveled, November 2023

Should be more filtering on the tours as a lot of them just end up as party tours

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 12/01/2023

 

Carmen S.   -  Traveled, October 2023

A lot to see in a short time

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 12/01/2023

 

Benjamin G.   -  Traveled, October 2023

I enjoy G tours myself and it's ethical practices. I've recommended G to several friends and family members in the past and some have gone on to book and enjoy their own yours

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 12/01/2023

 

Thomas K.   -  Traveled, October 2023

While I enjoyed the trip, the tour did not present as good value for money as I have experienced with other travel providers

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/08/2023

 

Jonas S.   -  Traveled, July 2023

Really good organized and likeable CEOs. The time at each location could have been spread better (more time in Singapore, skip Melaka)

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/23/2023

 

Alice M.   -  Traveled, July 2023

Both tours I have been on have been excellent

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/16/2023

 

Tobias T.   -  Traveled, July 2023

It was an amazing experience none of us will ever forget. Great travelers, the best CEOs (especially Pentor!) and a great mix of different activities and free time. Everything was organized, nothing to worry about and the CEOs were always there for us making sure that have a great stay in Asia.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/11/2023

 

Lucy W.   -  Traveled, July 2023

Super easy and fun way to meet people and take the stress out of travel

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/11/2023

 

Britt-Iren Flemmen S.   -  Traveled, June 2023

I would definitely recommend, but also make sure they know this is high pace and not the most luxurious one. If they are okay with that I would absolutely recommend.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/21/2023

 

Teresa C.   -  Traveled, June 2023

I had a wonderful experiences under many points of view. I had two CEOs and they were both great, super friendly and helpful. Moreover, the local guides for the homestays in Thailand and Malaysia were good hosts and getting close to their culture was such a wonderful experience! Lastly, all the transportation and most of the accommodation were very good.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/21/2023

 

Nathan H.   -  Traveled, June 2023

There is a huge range of itineraries on offer that cater to just about anyone's tastes/interests, and you get to travel and experience a lot of fun things with a group of like-minded people

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/19/2023

 

Sophia M.   -  Traveled, June 2023

The guides, especially the ones Native to the country you are visiting are extremely helpful in giving you ideas of what to do and what to eat to give you a trip that is tailored to you! The guides do a great job of getting to know everyone and make the experience that much better. These tours are a great way to see a lot in a short period of time but can be exhausting.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/12/2023

 

Manveer S.   -  Traveled, June 2023

I think overall the group travel experience in and of itself helped the score to be higher than I would rate G Adventures themselves. It was 'good' but there was room for improvement.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/07/2023

 

Rosanne G.   -  Traveled, May 2023

I had a great experience with my travel and though it was a great way to travel!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/21/2023

 

Alessa F.   -  Traveled, May 2024

The group was reassembled three times. It is very exhausting to always have to adapt to new people. I have done other group tours with the same group and the same guide for the whole time, this was much better.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/07/2024

 

Joel V.   -  Traveled, May 2024

The Trip was very nice. The first Group was good. The Second Group was much to young.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/07/2024

 

Patrick C.   -  Traveled, April 2024

I enjoyed that the trip was so organized and I always felt any problem I would encounter would be quickly and efficiently solved. The guides were all very friendly and welcoming!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/24/2024

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