Land of the Golden Pagodas
It is the quiet mystique of Myanmar that proves so compelling. Join us as we explore this largely undiscovered land, one of the gems of Southeast Asia—and one of the most extraordinary trips in B&R’s long history. From walking the lush countryside, to strolling through ancient villages and spectacular temples, to navigating narrow canals in a long boat, we take in this remarkable country at a pace that reflects its gentle character and reveals a land that will forever live in your imagination.
Note: The January 8 and February 16 departures use a different hotel line-up. Please review the alternative itinerary Myanmar Walking February 2013 for their details.
This is a signature B&R Walking trip—expertly guided, small groups, premium hotels.
Trip Details
Easygoing
Yangon to Yangon
9 Days / 8 Nights
Price per person from: $7,395
Single supplement: $1,000
See departure dates for exact pricing
Choose a Date
Day by Day
Immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of the classic Southeast Asian city of Yangon. Visit the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda en route to the breathtaking downtown district of old Yangon.
From Yangon, fly to Heho to enjoy lunch in one of the only wineries in the country and take an afternoon walk from the village of the vineyard down to the waters of Inle Lake through the small town of Nyaung Shwe.
Set out by boat to the remote villages on the shore of the lake, check out the local style of weaving and walk through scenic villages and rice paddies.
Hike up above the village of Mein Thauk to visit the monastery and enjoy the breathtaking views of the valley.
Visit a local monastery in Khaung Daing to witness the morning’s chanted prayer. Walk through the village's cottage industries up to a small monastery to take in sweeping views while chatting with one of the monks who lives there.
Walk around Mandalay and catch one of the local porter boats across the river to the village of Mingun. Head south to the Amarapura Monastery—considered one of the best monasteries in Myanmar for higher education.
Fly to the ancient city of Bagan and explore it with our local expert. End the day on a terrace overlooking the Bagan Plain, watching the sunset over the stupas.
Embark on foot to view some of the best-preserved temples, such as the magnificent Ananda Pahto. Visit a local lacquerware producer to see the incredibly skilled craftsmen at work.
Enjoy a final breakfast together at the hotel before flying to Yangon to say farewell and meet our international connections.
Hotels
Governor’s Residence, Yangon
A romantic, colonial-style mansion dating from the 1920s, the Governor’s Residence conjures up a bygone era of elegance and comfort. Set in lush gardens dotted with lotus pools, the hotel is a magical base for exploration of the city of Yangon. View hotel website »
Inle Viewpoint, Inle Lake
Sitting on the edge of the canal leading to the magnificent Inle Lake, this eco-friendly lodge blends the best of the Shan traditions and the needs of modern travelers. Located within walking distance to the village of Nyaung Shwe, Inle Viewpoint is built using entirely local materials and hosts a restaurant offering European/Myanmar fusion cuisine. View hotel website »
Sedona Hotel, Mandalay
Nestled on four acres of landscaped gardens, Sedona Mandalay is ideally located in the heart of the city and faces the majestic Royal Palace and Mandalay Hill. It features an inviting décor that hints at a fusion of the ethnic and the modern. View hotel website »
Aureum Palace, Bagan
Perched on the banks of the Ayeyarwady River and overlooking 800 years of history, the Aureum Palace was originally built as a traditional Burmese temple and now offers luxurious accomodations for all guests. The hotel is complete with an extensive spa facility, a fully-equipped fitness centre, a nightclub and a huge swimming pool affording a stunning view of Bagan’s pagoda landscape. View hotel website »
Activity Level
Easygoing
We rate this trip as Easygoing. The terrain is generally flat throughout our daily walks of 8-11 km (5-7 mi.), although you should expect a few hills and some dirt roads in the countryside. Much of the walking is through small villages and towns. To avoid midday heat, the days tend to start early.
Gear
Walking Sticks &
Hip Holsters
Included with all walking trips are Leki telescoping walking sticks and custom-made padded hip holsters, which comfortably carry one full half-litre water bottle. And while the walking sticks get “recycled” for use by another B&R traveller, the holsters are yours to keep at trip’s end.
What's Included
- All hotel accommodation
- All meals, including wine
- All internal flights and transfers
- Use of walking sticks
- Services of B&R guide(s) Burmese national guide and Burmese local experts, as well as support vehicles
- All special events and private tours
- All baggage transportation
- Detailed maps, route suggestions and water bottle
- All gratuities for the ship’s crew, local guides, baggage, porters and hotel service
- NOTE: The hot air balloon ride over Bagan is not included in the trip cost; at time of booking we can provide more info on how to arrange it yourself
At Your Service
We take pride in choosing guides who are not only exceptional travelling companions, but who’ll go far beyond the call of duty to ensure an unforgettable experience.
Accolades
“Myanmar is one of the last of the untouched places in Southeast Asia. Its name conjures images of thick jungles, long summer days sipping tea, and one of the most secretive and magical countries in the world. In this land of ancient cities, exotic wildlife and golden temples stretching to the horizon, you soon realize that this is not just a trip, but an adventure.”
— Tyler Dillon,
B&R Guide & Researcher
Notes from the Road
- Housing from the HeartFor a number of years I have been travelling, living, and working abroad—in search of what, I couldn’t say. Possibly a further understanding of the world, new perspectives, a sense of adventure. Or maybe it’s just because I cannot sit …
- Outside Magazine: Balloons Over BaganPublished at Outsideonilne.com | January 2013 | By Christopher Michel Recently returned from his Myanmar Biking trip with B&R, intrepid photographer Christopher Michel recounts his experience shooting the temples of Bagan for Outside magazine. Read C … …
- Tyler and The Lady: Only in MyanmarTyler Dillon was tired. The veteran B&R guide and Slow Road columnist had just returned to Yangon, Myanmar’s capital, after conducting some research in the northern part of the country. “It was night time and I was exhausted, and the …
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