Myanmar Islands: Snorkelling & Village Hikes

Arrive at any time and welcome to Thailand's bustling capital and the starting line for your off-the-beaten path exploration into undiscovered Myanmar.

Tonight, get to know your fellow travellers at the best riverside restaurant, then head to the famous Khao San Road and cheers to new adventures!

Hop on a short flight to Ranong, where we'll cross the river by longtail boat into a new world landing in Kawthaung⁠ — Myanmar's southernmost point and gateway to Southeast Asia's forgotten frontier. Immerse yourself in this colourful port city, opt for a trek to one of the hilltop pagodas for a panoramic view, and begin exploring the time capsule that is Myanmar.

Embark on a guided walk through Kawthaung to learn about the area's history as a trading hub, why Burmese men stain their teeth red and women paint their faces yellow, and gain insight into daily life in this culturally diverse region. Afterward, settle into a first-class bus and get cozy with your seat mate for the journey to Tanintharyi.

Hop on a tuk-tuk for a rustic ride through the morning market waving back to the friendly local people. Set out on a traditional boat as the sun rises on the mighty Tanintharyi River and take in the humbling river life. Stop on a sandy bank for a swim and kayak as much or as little as you like, weaving through canals. Visit the village of Tagu for a local lunch and mingle with the villagers. Hike up a towering karst (limestone) mountain spotted with shimmering gold stupas and Buddha statues for a stunning 360-degree view of the surrounding scenery. Continue to Myeik and watch the sunset at the harbour.

Venture to the Mergui Archipelago for a full-day of island hopping. Pass mangrove forests, traditional stilt houses, and fishing boats that dot the seascape. Stop by Dome Waterfall that cuts through the jungle before cascading into the ocean. Continue to Dome Island and enjoy lunch in the village of Nyaung Mine. Visit a local village where some members of the indigenous Moken community reside. Enjoy the wide variety of beaches on Smart Island before heading to camp on Thel Ni Aw like Robinson Crusoe where you'll have 24 hours to enjoy this castaway island life.

Wake up to the sun warming your skin and the sound of lazy waves and singing birds. Enjoy breakfast on the beach and take advantage of your last day on this private, pristine island. Go for a morning swim, wander the jungle, or kayak and snorkel to nearby reefs. Return to Myeik in the afternoon and spend the rest of the evening as you please. Wander down Strand Road with your fellow travellers and venture into the night market.

Spend the morning freely exploring Myeik, getting to know this town from a daytime perspective. Wander through the bustling waterfront and markets, visit the Thein Daw Gyi Pagoda, or choose to hit snooze. This afternoon, take in the scenery on a coastal drive north to Dawei - one of old Burma's best kept secrets.

Jump on a motorcycle taxi and head north of Dawei to visit a community based tourism project in Kalontha Village. Visit an ancient Pagoda, meet the head monk, and wander through lush fruit orchards and medicinal farms. Trek through the jungle with a wise elder where you'll experience a once-in-a-lifetime nature meditation session. Enjoy a cool swim in a hidden forest oasis and a charming picnic with the local people. Afterward, visit remote Nabule Beach - an isolated 12km stretch of white sand and translucent blue water. End the day at Dawei's more popular Maungmagan Beach sipping on fresh coconuts or a chilled drink as the sun goes down.

Dawei is yours to discover with a day to freely explore this estuary town. Check out the reclining Buddha at Shwe Thalyaung Pagoda, cross the bridge to Myaw Yit Pagoda on a rock island, or boat around exploring all of Dawei's islands. Wander around the markets and indulge in fresh seafood.

Take in the Tanintharyi Mountains lush scenery as we cruise past local rubber tree and betel nut plantations. Cross the border back into Thailand and arrive in Kanchanaburi, famous for the iron bridge over River Kwai. Opt to learn about this towns dark history at the Allied War Cemetery and Museums, stroll along the train tracks, or just relax by the river sipping a cool drink. For your big night out, enjoy a drink on us and celebrate the end to an amazing adventure.

Today, it’s time to say goodbye to your fellow travellers as this journey comes to an end in Bangkok around noon. Be sure to exchange social medias and sneak in some last-minute photos and smiles before you head on your way.