Thailand & Cambodia Tour | Island hopping in the Thai islands

This exceptional journey through Thailand and Cambodia reveals Asia from a new perspective. Begin in vibrant Bangkok, travel through peaceful countryside landscapes and finish on tropical islands where time seems to stand still. Stay in elegant glamping lodges that blend seamlessly with their surroundings. Along the way, join a local cooking class, glide by speedboat to untouched beaches, soar over rice fields in a hot-air balloon at sunrise and share unforgettable encounters with elephants. A journey of contrasts, comfort and authenticity, in true Caractère style.

Important Information:

Thailand

A valid international passport is required, valid for at least six months after your return, with a minimum of two blank pages.
From 1 May 2025, all foreign travellers, including Belgian citizens, must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before arriving in Thailand. This form must be submitted within three days prior to arrival.
No vaccinations are mandatory, but Hepatitis A, DTP, and typhoid are recommended. The malaria risk is low, though we advise using mosquito repellent outside major cities, especially from dusk until dawn. Consult your doctor or the Institute of Tropical Medicine before departure for personalised advice.

Cambodia

A valid international passport is required, valid for at least six months after your return, with a minimum of two blank pages.
A valid visa is required.
No vaccinations are mandatory, but Hepatitis A, DTP, and typhoid are recommended. The malaria risk is low, but mosquito protection is advised outside major cities, particularly between dusk and dawn. Consult your doctor or the Institute of Tropical Medicine before departure for personalised advice.

Day 1: Arrival in Bangkok

Upon arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport, your local guide welcomes you with a warm, traditional Thai Smile. On the way to your hotel, you’ll get your first glimpse of Bangkok, the vibrant capital often called the “City of Angels.” This lively metropolis is full of contrasts: centuries-old temples beside modern skyscrapers, colourful street markets next to designer boutiques. The rest of the day is free to relax at your hotel, explore the surroundings or enjoy a drink on a stylish rooftop terrace overlooking the glittering skyline.

Day 2: Discovering Bangkok

After breakfast, dive into the city’s historic heart. Visit the majestic Grand Palace, once the residence of the kings of Siam, and admire the Emerald Buddha, Thailand’s most revered image. Continue to Wat Pho, famous for its massive Reclining Buddha and tranquil monastic gardens. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Thai gastronomy during a cooking class at the Blue Elephant Cooking School, housed in a beautiful colonial mansion. Learn the secrets of Royal Thai cuisine and prepare your own refined dishes, the perfect ending to a day filled with culture and sensory delights.

Day 3: Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Chiang Rai, in northern Thailand. On arrival, your guide will meet you. This region, known for its colourful hill tribes and lush landscapes, offers a fascinating glimpse into authentic Thailand.

In the afternoon, meet the country’s most iconic residents, the Asian elephants. During this respectful encounter, you’ll learn about their habits and natural habitat. Afterwards, cruise along the Ruak River toward the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Myanmar and Laos meet. Once notorious for its opium trade, this area is now a symbol of peace and natural beauty. Spend the night at the exclusive Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, a luxurious retreat hidden in the jungle where adventure and elegance blend seamlessly.

Day 4: Exploring the Golden Triangle

Wake up to birdsong and mist drifting over the hills. Today is all about soaking up the tranquillity and beauty of your surroundings. Venture out on foot or by bicycle past rice paddies, pineapple fields and teak forests, or visit nearby villages where traditional life continues undisturbed. Back at the camp, unwind with a spa treatment, a dip in the pool overlooking the river or a candlelit dinner beneath a sky full of stars.

Day 5: From Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

After breakfast, bid farewell to the Golden Triangle and continue to Chiang Mai, the “Rose of the North” and former capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom. The city breathes culture, with hundreds of Buddhist temples, ancient gates and lively markets. Explore Chiang Mai by boat and samlor (traditional cycle rickshaw) and admire the graceful temples, centuries-old murals and intricate wooden architecture. Chiang Mai is also the perfect place to slow down: savour the refined northern cuisine, browse artisan boutiques and galleries, or unwind at a luxurious resort surrounded by nature.

Day 6: Chiang Mai

Begin the day with an unforgettable experience: a sunrise hot-air balloon flight over Chiang Mai. As the city awakens, float gently above fields, rivers and temple rooftops, with mountains stretching across the horizon, a magical moment to remember. The rest of the day is yours to explore at leisure. Wander through the old town, visit art galleries and markets, or indulge in a relaxing massage at one of the city’s elegant spas. In the evening, enjoy a fine dinner in one of Chiang Mai’s acclaimed restaurants.

Day 7: To Siem Reap, Cambodia

After breakfast, your driver takes you to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap, gateway to the legendary temples of Angkor. Upon arrival, your local guide greets you and assists with fast-track passport control, ensuring a smooth start to your Cambodian adventure.

Day 8: Siem Reap and Angkor Thom

Before dawn, take to the skies once more on a hot-air balloon flight over the enchanting landscapes of Siem Reap. From above, watch rice fields, sugar palms and small villages glow under the first golden rays of sunlight, a truly spellbinding sight.

After landing, hop aboard a remork (Cambodian tuk-tuk) to explore Angkor Thom, the last capital of the mighty Khmer Empire. Pass through the monumental South Gate, flanked by 54 gods and demons holding the sacred Naga serpent, and marvel at the serene stone faces of the Bayon Temple. After lunch in Siem Reap, continue your exploration of the Angkor jungle, where Ta Prohm and Preah Khan stand wrapped in giant tree roots and lush vegetation. End the day with sunset views at Pre Rup, as the towers glow red-gold in the fading light.

Day 9: To Phnom Penh

After breakfast, fly to Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s lively capital. Your guide welcomes you upon arrival and transfers you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or discover the city’s unique atmosphere, a captivating blend of French colonial elegance, modern energy and ancient tradition.

Day 10: Discovering Phnom Penh

After breakfast, explore the city’s historic heart. The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda form a dazzling complex of golden spires and sacred sculptures. The palace remains a symbol of the Kingdom and a venue for royal ceremonies, appropriate attire is required. Then, visit the moving Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, poignant reminders of Cambodia’s turbulent past.

After lunch at leisure, browse the colourful Russian Market, filled with silk, jewellery, carvings and vibrant fabrics. In the evening, experience the city in a different way with a tuk-tuk food tour, discovering lively streets, local bars and hidden eateries, a delicious immersion into Phnom Penh’s flavours and rhythm.

Day 11–13: Shinta Mani Wild, Kampong Speu

After breakfast, depart for a scenic two-and-a-half-hour drive to Shinta Mani Wild, one of Southeast Asia’s most exclusive jungle lodges. Hidden within the lush forests of Kampong Speu, the 350-hectare reserve is a sanctuary of rivers, wildlife and serenity, where luxury and sustainability intertwine.

Set your own pace: join the Wildlife Alliance rangers on an anti-poaching patrol, paddle a kayak or expedition boat along quiet waterways, or explore the jungle on guided hikes. Creative travellers can join a terrarium workshop or a forest foraging session with the chef. Prefer to unwind? Sip sunset cocktails by the river or learn the art of mixology with the Wild bartender.

Three unforgettable days surrounded by nature’s rhythm, where time slows down, luxury feels effortless and every moment becomes a lasting memory.

Day 14–16: Song Saa Private Island

After a final breakfast in the jungle, your representative from Shinta Mani Wild escorts you to the pier in Sihanoukville, where a speedboat awaits to whisk you across the sparkling Gulf of Thailand to Song Saa Private Island.

The next few days are yours to design. Lounge on the beach, swim in turquoise waters or snorkel among colourful reefs. For adventure, try wakeboarding, water-skiing or kayaking through the mangroves of nearby Koh Rong Island, with light snacks and refreshing drinks en route. In the evening, enjoy elegant dinners overlooking the ocean, lulled by the gentle sound of the waves. Here, time stretches softly between sea, sun and serenity.

Day 17: Homeward Bound

After breakfast, bid farewell to your island paradise. A speedboat takes you back to Sihanoukville, where your guide and driver await for the transfer to Phnom Penh Airport. From there, your journey home begins, with memories of Asia’s spirit at its most authentic and unforgettable.

Indicative Price

Dreaming of this journey? This extraordinary experience starts from €17,000 per person, including international flights. The final price depends on your travel preferences and chosen period.