Chase Around Laos, Cambodia & Myanmar 15 Days

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel, preparing to embark on a thrilling day of adventure racing! Imagine checking off multiple items from your bucket list while creating cherished memories with friends, family, and even strangers. The Pha Tad Ke Botanical Garden Adventure Race awaits, an 8-hour challenge where teams conquer diverse tasks across the city, encompassing adventure, service, survival, sustainability, culture, history, and spirituality. Equipped with digital and paper-based guides, your team will receive instructions and engage in exciting activities. Sample tasks include: Retrieving two water bottles from the Mekong River and recycling them. Creating a human pyramid in a public space, involving locals to join and fortify the pyramid. Crafting a 30-second song about Laos and recording a video of your performance. Enchanting bystanders with a magic trick performed in a public setting. Ascending Mount Phousi to witness a breathtaking sunset. Each completed task or activity will be tracked on Facebook through postings, allowing you to gauge your progress. Lunch will be enjoyed at a local restaurant. In the evening, prepare to participate in a unique experience—making and selling banana pancakes to locals and tourists! The team that sells the most pancakes within the designated timeframe emerges victorious. This unforgettable encounter provides insights into the life of a street vendor! (B, L) Overnight: Deluxe room at 3 Nagas Luang Prabang or similar.

Immerse yourself in the serene countryside surrounding Luang Prabang as you spend a delightful half day on a community-based rice farm. Nestled amidst picturesque mountains and lush rice paddies, this idyllic setting allows you to experience the life of a farmer. Engage in various farm activities, such as fertilizing, harvesting rice, vegetables, and watermelons (depending on the season). The farming experience includes seasonal challenges that revolve around these activities. Additionally, delve into the arts of bamboo weaving, blacksmith work, and sugar cane processing. Afterward, transfer to your hotel to freshen up before heading to the airport for your flight to Vientiane. Recommended flight: LAO 102 departs from Luang Prabang at 13:05 and arrives in Vientiane at 13:50 (Please note that schedules are subject to change without prior notice). Upon arrival at Wattay International Airport, proceed to the main exit gate where a representative will be waiting with a signboard displaying your name. Transfer to your hotel in Vientiane. Often praised as one of the most laidback capital cities in the world, Vientiane captivates visitors with its tranquil tree-lined boulevards, riverside restaurants exuding a relaxed vibe, magnificent golden temples, and remarkable cuisine. Due to its landlocked location and focus on fresh ingredients, Lao cuisine embraces a farm-to-table approach with minimal processed foods. In the evening, embark on an enjoyable culinary adventure as you explore the vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients of Lao food during a cooking class. Learn about the intriguing and unfamiliar tastes, and work in teams to create your own versions of jeow (spicy Lao dipping sauce), mok pa (steamed fish in banana leaf), lemongrass-stuffed chicken, gaeng pet (spicy curry), minced fish, or the beloved papaya salad. Before indulging in your culinary creations for dinner, sample and appreciate the dishes prepared by other teams, casting your votes for the best taste and most beautiful presentation. The challenge culminates in a thrilling competition, where the judges determine the day's finest dishes. Conclude the day's adventures by returning to your hotel to unwind. (B, D) Overnight: Salana Boutique Hotel or similar.

Get ready for an exciting and invigorating day of cycling around Vientiane. Armed with a city map and a bicycle, embark on a self-guided exploration of the city, uncovering its highlights and hidden gems. Pedal your way through markets, captivating backstreets, schools, and breathtaking temples. At each stop, solve clues that delve into the city's history and culture, collecting more clues to unravel a final puzzle. Indulge in a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure, whether lounging by the pool or immersing yourself in the vibrant life along the Mekong River. (B, L) Overnight: Salana Boutique Hotel or similar.

In the early morning, you will be transferred to Vientiane airport for your flight to Siem Reap via Pakse. Recommended flight: LAO 511 departs from Vientiane at 07:00 and arrives in Siem Reap at 10:05 (via Pakse; please note that schedules are subject to change without prior notice). Upon arrival at Siem Reap International Airport, make your way to the main exit gate where our representative will be waiting, holding a signboard with your name. Transfer from the airport to your hotel. Welcome to Siem Reap, home to the magnificent Angkor Wat Temple Complex, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Discover thousand-year-old temples, indulge in glorious street food, and immerse yourself in the profound Khmer culture. This afternoon, stretch your legs (and arms) and prepare for a thrilling kayaking competition. Transfer to the floating village on the vast Tonle Sap Lake, the largest lake in Southeast Asia. Your journey takes you past lush rice paddies and offers a glimpse into the daily lives of local residents. Arriving at the boat dock, embark on a traditional local boat that will transport you to the floating village, where an extraordinary kayaking experience awaits amidst sunken forests. Hop aboard your kayak and race through this captivating village, greeted by warm smiles from the humble Cambodian people who call the lakeside their home. If luck is on your side, you might spot rare tropical bird species from the nearby wildlife sanctuary. Your knowledgeable guide will provide insights into the local customs and way of life before returning to Siem Reap town. (B) Overnight: The Aviary Hotel or similar.

Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of the Angkor Wat Temple Complex, where intricate wall carvings, lush temples hidden in the jungle, and serene saffron-robed monks create a photographer's paradise. Today, engage in a thrilling full-day photography challenge with guidance from a professional photographer. As a team, you'll begin your adventure as early as 4:45 am, starting with a captivating sunrise at Angkor Wat. After a quick breakfast at local food stalls (not included), spend the day exploring 6-7 different locations, including the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat, the enigmatic Bayon with its multitude of smiling faces, and the enchanting Ta Prohm, known for its harmonious blend of ruins and overgrown trees. Capture the essence of these sites through your lens and unlock their historical secrets through our intriguing clues. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. The challenge awaits - armed with a map and a series of questions, decipher the answers to discover the mystery locations and find the perfect vantage points for your photographs. It's a thrilling race to the finish line! In the late afternoon, transfer to the Angkor zipline, nestled amidst the lush Angkorian jungle. Embark on a thrilling adventure as you climb, zip, and marvel at the breathtaking views from the treetop platforms, perched 50 meters (164 feet) above the ground. This one-hour experience allows you to connect with nature and encounter wildlife, guided by some of the country's most experienced guides. In the evening, meet your leader for a pancake cooking and selling challenge near Pub Street. Put your entrepreneurial skills to the test as you compete to sell the most pancakes. May the best team emerge victorious! (B, L) Overnight: The Aviary Hotel or similar.

Embark on a culinary journey that delves into the heart of Cambodian food culture. In Asia, food holds a special place in people's lives, and today you'll experience the significance of fresh, healthy, and seasonal cuisine firsthand. Immerse yourself in the local culinary scene by venturing to the bustling markets with a provided ingredient list, as you race against time to secure the necessary items. Return to a local restaurant where the cooking challenge awaits. The team that procures the most correct ingredients will triumph in part one. For the cooking class section, the winner will be determined by our esteemed local chef. Indulge in your culinary creations and savor the flavors like a true Cambodian. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure until the evening. With 80% of Cambodia's population engaged in agriculture and farming, insects have found their way onto Cambodian tables. Brace yourself for a thrilling gastronomic adventure at Bugs Café, a creative and innovative restaurant in Siem Reap. Prepare to sample various edible critters – we hope your appetite is ready! The team that fearlessly consumes the most insects shall claim victory in this challenge. Bon appétit! (B, L, D) Overnight: The Aviary Hotel or similar.

Today, put your knowledge of local transportation to the test! You will be provided with a budget to make your way to Phnom Penh, the capital city, using public buses. This journey will require your own organization and planning. Immerse yourself in the country's lifestyle and embrace local travel. Don't forget to bring a souvenir showcasing a local product to share with your guide. Points will be awarded to the first team to gather at the designated meeting point in Phnom Penh, as well as the team that manages to retain the most money. Along the route, you may encounter water buffalo working in the rice paddies or basking lazily in the sun right on the road. Cambodian cuisine is a delightful blend of rustic flavors, vibrant colors, and striking contrasts. Experience an evening of culinary exploration in Phnom Penh led by a knowledgeable local food expert. Begin by immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of a local market, where you can sample a wide array of exotic fruits and snacks, including fertilized duck eggs, insects, and silk worms – unusual yet intriguing sources of protein with unique textures. With your appetite awakened, proceed to a traditional Khmer BBQ establishment, where you will dine and drink like a local. Rest assured that your expert guide has selected vendors known for the quality and safety of their food. (B, D) Driving distance: Approx. 320km (6 hours) Overnight: White Mansion Boutique Hotel or similar.

Cyclos, an iconic feature of Phnom Penh, offer an economical and immersive way to explore the city. Today's adventure involves mastering the art of cyclo riding and engaging in a thrilling race against other teams under the cover of darkness. One team member will act as the blindfolded driver, while the other will guide them strategically to outpace the competition. In the afternoon, embark on a captivating half-day city exploration aboard vintage Vespas. This unique tour provides a fresh perspective on the history, essence, and vitality of the vibrant capital. Glide along tree-lined boulevards, pass by majestic pagodas and palaces, navigate bustling streets, and connect with the local community. Begin at a popular coffee spot, where you'll learn about the city's colonial heritage and visit the French-built Post Office. A short ride takes you to Wat Phnom, an iconic landmark that lends its name to the city. Venturing off the beaten path, meander through charming backstreets to discover a neighborhood adorned with expressive street art. Your journey continues with a visit to the S-21 Genocide Museum, offering insights into the dark period of the Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s. Transitioning from this somber chapter, immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance of a local market frequented by residents, where you'll sample delectable local delicacies. Pay homage to King Sihanouk, a revered figure in Cambodia's independence movement, by visiting the Independence Monument and the King's Statue. Finally, head to The Riverside, a popular area for locals to stroll and exercise, and seize the opportunity to capture a memorable Vespa photograph in front of the Royal Palace. Enjoy a late check-out until 18:00 at your hotel. In the evening, after a light meal (not included), teams will be transferred to the airport for a late flight to Yangon. Suggested flight: EK 389 departs from Phnom Penh at 23:35 and arrives in Yangon at 00:55 the following day (subject to schedule changes without prior notice). (B, L)

Upon your arrival at Yangon International Airport, after completing immigration and customs, locate the "MEETING POINT" in front of the international arrival exit inside the terminal. Your guide, holding a signboard with your name, will be waiting to greet you. Transfer from the airport to your hotel. Yangon, the largest city in Myanmar, may appear bustling due to recent development, but it still exudes its own unique charm and preserves its authentic cultural heritage. Meet your guide at the hotel lobby and transfer to the designated meeting point on 49th Street, a short 10-minute walk from Sule Pagoda. Get ready for an exciting biking challenge with a twist—each participant will wear a traditional longyi, a wrap-around cloth worn in Burma. The longyi is worn around the waist, extending down to the feet, without the need for a knot. It adds a touch of authenticity to your cycling adventure. Receive a brief introduction to the activity and instructions on bike usage before embarking on your cycling challenge. After approximately 10 minutes of cycling through downtown Yangon, reach Pansodan Jetty, where you'll board a local ferry to Dala, crossing the Yangon River. Explore the lesser-known neighborhoods and backstreets of Dala, immersing yourself in the local culture. Visit the renowned golden monk and continue your ride to Payagyi, where you'll have the opportunity to assist in cooking lunch for disadvantaged children and interact with them. In the afternoon, return to Yangon and visit the awe-inspiring Shwedagon Pagoda, one of Buddhism's holiest sites. It is believed to house eight hairs of Gautama Buddha and relics from three former Buddhas. The towering golden stupa, standing at 99 meters (325 feet), is visible from nearly every corner of the city. Conclude the day's activities and return to your hotel. (B, L) Overnight at Savoy Hotel Yangon or similar.

Embark on a journey from Bagan to the enchanting Inle Lake, renowned for its floating gardens, stilt houses, unique fishing techniques, and the skilled one-legged rowing of the local Intha people. Today's mission is to create a short film documenting your experiences along the way. The group will vote for the best movie, and the winning team will triumph in today's challenge. (B) Overnight at Inle Resort or similar.

Start your day by departing from the hotel to explore the pristine waters of Inle Lake, Myanmar's second-largest lake, stretching 22km (13mi) in length and 11km (7mi) in width. Situated at an altitude of 880m (2,887ft), this lake boasts a cool climate and abundant flora and fauna. Experience the traditional mode of transportation by boarding a small wooden boat. Learn the art of rowing in the distinctive style of the local fishermen, standing at the boat's edge and propelling it with a single-legged paddle. Immerse yourself further in the local culture by mastering traditional fishing techniques with a net (life jackets will be provided as there is a chance of getting wet). Next, take a boat ride to visit Kyauk Taung market and engage in a friendly buffalo cart competition with the locals. Afterwards, transfer to a local house and partake in a variety of enjoyable activities, including rolling your own local cigar, crafting a silver trinket, and witnessing a cat jumping through a hoop in a monastery. A delicious lunch will be served at a local restaurant. (B, L) Driving distance: approx. 328km (7 hours) Overnight at Inle Resort or similar.

After a satisfying breakfast, you will be transported to Heho airport for your flight back to Yangon. We recommend Air KBZ 249, departing from Heho at 10:30 and arriving in Yangon at 11:40 (please note that schedules are subject to change without prior notice). Upon arrival at Yangon International Airport, your guide will be waiting for you at the "MEETING POINT" near the International arrivals exit (inside the terminal). Look for a signboard with your name on it. Relax as we transfer you to your hotel. Each team will create a 1-2 minute video highlighting the entire trip, as this will be one of the criteria for determining the overall winner. Tonight, a grand gala dinner, featuring the video presentations and the announcement of the winning team, will take place at a local restaurant. (B, D) Overnight at Savoy Hotel Yangon or similar.

Savor some leisure time until it's time to bid farewell. Take advantage of this opportunity to relax or explore at your own pace. Later, we will arrange your transfer to the airport for your onward flight. Please note that the check-out time is 12:00 noon. (B)