Burma in a Nutshell

Burma is packed with variety, its culture having kept a distinct identity through changing times. So you see the temples and pagodas of Bagan and the royal city of Mandalay. You also glimpse local life as you cruise the Irrawaddy and explore Inle Lake. Tourism here is still young, yet fine boutique hotels have opened for the discerning traveller. As ever, the whole trip is private and tailored to you, with expert guides throughout.

A Classic First Tour

The idea here is the essentials, beautifully done. So you gather Burma’s headline sights in one trip. Meanwhile, a river cruise links the great temple towns. The pace, in turn, stays comfortable. As a result, it is the perfect first encounter with Burma.

Yangon: Gilded and Grand

Begin in Yangon, heading to the golden Shwedagon Pagoda for sunset, then a trishaw ride through the streets. So the next day brings a colonial walking tour of old Rangoon. There are grand facades and lively markets at every turn. The vast Shwedagon sets the tone. As a result, the trip opens memorably.

Mandalay and the Monks

Next, fly to Mandalay and explore the city with your guide, including the Mahamuni Pagoda. So early risers can witness the daily ritual of monks collecting alms. The workshops of Mandalay still gild and carve by hand. Meanwhile, the city hums with craft and devotion. As a result, it rewards a curious traveller.

Cruising to Bagan

Then board the RV Paukan and cruise down the Irrawaddy. So you stop at Yandabo, famous for its pottery, and a riverside village. Meanwhile, the great river drifts gently by. The Irrawaddy is Burma’s lifeblood. As a result, the journey becomes part of the story.

Bagan: A Sea of Pagodas

Soon you disembark at Bagan to explore its temples and pagodas. So the keen can take a dawn balloon ride over the plain. Another morning brings the bustling Nyaung U market. The temple plain of Bagan is one of Asia’s wonders. You stay at the Aureum Palace Bagan.

Inle Lake: Floating Worlds

Finally, fly to Heho and drive to Inle Lake. So a long-tail boat carries you among the stilt villages and floating gardens. There you meet the lakeside communities and browse local markets. A free day lets you relax or explore further. The leg-rowers of Inle Lake are a lasting image. You stay at the Sanctum Inle Lake.

Where You Stay

Naturally, the hotels are boutique and characterful. First, a fine address in Yangon. Then the Aureum Palace Bagan. Finally, the Sanctum Inle Lake. Of course, we can tailor each to suit you.

Who It Suits

Above all, this suits first-time visitors to Burma. For example, it gathers the must-see sights in one gentle loop. Equally, it rewards anyone who loves culture and rivers. Couples enjoy it most.

Best Time to Travel

Generally, October to April brings the most comfortable weather. By contrast, the summer months are hot and wet. The cool season, meanwhile, is ideal. So we tailor the timing to your plans. Either way, we advise on the ideal window for your dates.

A Land of Layers

The joy here is the depth of culture. First come the pagodas of Yangon. Then the workshops of Mandalay. Soon after, the temples of Bagan. Finally, the floating worlds of the lake. So the country unfolds in stages.

A Classic for Good Reason

This route endures because it simply works. So you see the must-see sights in a logical flow. Meanwhile, the cruise links them effortlessly. As a result, it is our most popular first tour of Burma.

A Warm Welcome

Throughout, Burmese hospitality shines through. So a chat at a market becomes a memory. Meanwhile, your guide opens doors a visitor rarely finds. As a result, the country feels genuinely welcoming.

A Seamless Journey

Above all, every detail is handled for you. So the flights, transfers and cruise simply work. Meanwhile, the pace stays relaxed throughout. As a result, you simply enjoy Burma.

A Gentle Pace

For all it covers, the trip stays relaxed. So the cruise breaks up the sightseeing beautifully. Meanwhile, a free day at the lake lets it all sink in. As a result, you return refreshed.

Designed Around You

As ever, this is only a starting point. So we shape the pace, the hotels and the cruise to suit. In the end, the trip is entirely your own.

Who It Suits

Above all, this suits curious first-time travellers. For example, it is ideal for those who love history and rivers. Equally, it rewards anyone short on time. Couples and friends enjoy it alike.

A Memorable First Visit

In the end, this trip captures Burma beautifully. So you gain pagodas, rivers and lakes in one loop. Meanwhile, the comforts make it effortless. As a result, many guests return for more.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the cruise?

This itinerary uses a short Irrawaddy cruise to Bagan. Longer sailings are available. We will shape it to suit you.

Is the guiding private?

Yes, you have a private guide in each location. On the cruise, the boat provides guiding. So you are in expert hands throughout.

When is the best time to go?

Generally, October to April is most comfortable. We will advise on timing for your dates.

Can it be tailored?

Entirely. The pace, the hotels and the cruise are all shaped around you. Simply share your dates and interests, and we will craft the rest.