Last Updated on September 19, 2024 by Talita

13 excellent and different guided tours around Southeast Asia. Tours with a variety of prices, days, destinations, themes, age, level of luxury, and adventure.

Southeast Asia is a fascinating and diverse region, known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, ancient history and warm hospitality. It attracts millions of tourists and is made up of Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, Brunei and Singapore.

Thailand, for example, is famous for its idyllic beaches, ornate temples and vibrant nightlife in places like Bangkok. Vietnam offers a unique experience, from historic Ho Chi Minh City to picturesque Ha Long Bay. Indonesia, a vast archipelago, has breathtaking destinations such as Bali, known for its spectacular beaches and vibrant culture.

 

 

Malaysia, with its combination of tradition and modernity, features the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur and the lush island of Borneo. The Philippines, with its pristine beaches and coral reefs, is a paradise for diving lovers. Cambodia is recognized for the magnificent Angkor Wat complex, an impressive testament to the Khmer civilization.

Myanmar, with its ancient temples and pristine landscapes, is gradually opening up to tourism. Laos offers a tranquil atmosphere and stunning scenery, while Singapore, a modern city-state, is a cosmopolitan center for business and leisure. Brunei, although small, is rich in culture and tradition.

On top of all this, Southeast Asia also offers exciting outdoor activities such as jungle trekking, diving in crystal-clear waters, picturesque boat trips and exploring vibrant local markets.

 

 

10 Main Tourist Attractions in Southeast Asia

Before delving into the central topic of this article, it’s worth taking a look at some of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Southeast Asia that we have highlighted. This will aid in your search for tours, itineraries, and trips that match your preferences.

As mentioned earlier, the region is fascinating. So, we present a list of 10 must-see attractions and tourist cities there:

1. Angkor Wat, Cambodia: A temple complex in Cambodia, one of the largest and best-preserved in the world, known for its impressive architecture and detailed sculptures.

2. Halong Bay, Vietnam: A spectacular seascape with thousands of limestone islets, caves, and coves that can be explored on unforgettable cruises.

3. Bali, Indonesia: Known for its paradise beaches, terraced rice fields, sacred temples, and vibrant culture, Bali is an iconic tourist destination.

4. Chiang Mai, Thailand: Chiang Mai is a city in the northern part of the country, filled with ancient temples, colorful markets, and mountainous scenery, offering a unique atmosphere.

5. Phi Phi Islands, Thailand: Located in the Andaman Sea, these Thai islands are known for their stunning beaches and coral reefs ideal for diving.

 

 

6. Petronas Towers, Malaysia: Located in Kuala Lumpur, these twin towers are an architectural icon and offer a panoramic view of the city.

7. Luang Prabang, Laos: A city in Laos, with a serene atmosphere, stunning Buddhist temples, and the beauty of the Mekong River.

8. Bagan, Myanmar: Famous for its plains filled with ancient temples and pagodas, creating a breathtaking scenery.

9. Palawan, Philippines: A province with untouched beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and limestone formations, considered a paradise for nature lovers.

10. Singapore: A modern city-state known for its futuristic architecture, world-class shopping areas, and a multicultural mix of cuisine.

 

Is it better to travel independently or in group tours in Southeast Asia?

Regardless of the choice you make to explore Southeast Asia, whether through independent travel or on a group tour, both have unique advantages and disadvantages.

Opting for independent travel, for example, provides greater flexibility to plan your own itinerary and select activities according to your preferences. This grants the freedom to decide when and how to carry out activities, allowing you to explore Southeast Asia at your own pace. Additionally, this approach can be more economical as it allows control over expenses based on your choices.

However, independent travel requires meticulous planning, with research on accommodations, transportation, and activities. One must be prepared to deal with potential challenges, such as the language barrier, and take additional precautions regarding safety, especially in more remote areas.

On the other hand, a group tour led by a guide offers the company of fellow travelers and the opportunity to meet people with similar interests. Moreover, traveling in a group can provide a sense of security, especially when accompanied by an experienced guide familiar with Southeast Asia.

However, this option may somewhat limit the freedom to explore Southeast Asia independently, as you will follow a predefined itinerary and schedules set by the group.

In summary, the decision between traveling independently or in a group in Southeast Asia will depend on your personal preferences. Consider your interests, time availability, budget, and comfort level when making your decision.

 

Pros of traveling on a group tour	Pros of traveling on your own
Company and opportunity to meet people with similar interests	Flexibility to create your own itinerary and choose activities
Peaceful and fun group experience	Autonomy to follow your own schedule
More safety when riding in a group, especially with an experienced local guide	Freedom to explore Iceland without having to stick to a schedule
Less need for planning and research as the tour already provides accommodation, transport and activities	Potential savings, since depending on the choices it can be cheaper
Possibility of access to places or activities that may be difficult or impossible to reach alone	Greater challenge and opportunity to learn and grow with the experience of planning and conducting your own trip

 

13 Best Tours and Itineraries to Explore Southeast Asia

 

Best Southeast Asia Tours and Itineraries for Guided Small-Group Adventures

 

   1. G Adventures – Southeast Asia Encompassed (29 Days)

From the lively cityscapes of Bangkok to the magnificent limestone formations of Halong Bay, this trip encompasses the highlights of Southeast Asia.

Marvel at the beauty of Angkor Wat, sail down the Mekong River and taste noodles in Hoi An. Go souvenir shopping in Ho Chi Minh City and join locals for coffee at a lakeside cafe in Hanoi.

 

 

   2. G Adventures – Southeast Asia Discovery (30 Days)

Discover centuries-old stories at ancient sites like Angkor Wat, tune in to the energy of Southeast Asia’s most famous cities, and discover new places to have fun along the way.

There’s so much to explore in Southeast Asia, and this 30-day tour offers enough free time and fun to bring your adventurous spirit to every part of it.

 

 

   3. Encounters Travel – Laos Uncovered (15 Days)

This is a great tour of Laos that highlights the huge range of attractions and activities the country has to offer, and shows you how to spend an unforgettable two weeks in this enchanting nation.

From a luxurious cruise on the Mekong River to Hmong villages, mysterious archaeological sites, ornate temples and stunning waterfalls, this tour has it all!

You can customize your daily itinerary, duration, and accommodation levels and styles however you want.

 

   4. Intrepid – Premium Southeast Asia in Depth (15 Days) 

This 24-day Premium adventure delves into the heart of Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia, exploring the unique charm each region offers.

Start your journey in bustling Bangkok and delve deep into Vietnam before finally arriving in Cambodia.

 

 

Best Southeast Asia Tours and Itineraries for Young Singles Groups (Ages 18-35)

 

   5. Contiki – Ultimate Southeast Asia (27 Days) 

Stroll the streets of Bangkok, explore limestone caves in Laos, and take part in Buddhist almsgiving. Stay on a traditional Chinese boat. This trip is the magical mix of everything Southeast Asia has to offer!

 

 

   6. Contiki – Asian Adventure (16 Days)

Here you travel through the cityscapes of Bangkok and the remote beauty of Siem Reap, completely immersed in Southeast Asia. You will admire the Buddhist temples and learn all the history.

 

 

   7. Topdeck – Play & Pause: Great Southeast Asia (29 Days)

A trip through four countries with much more than just taking selfies next to large Buddhas. Here you will also see incredible temples, jungles and a delicious variety of food, as well as stunning islands for relaxing moments.

Best Luxury and Comfort Southeast Asia Tours and Itineraries for Small Groups with Guides

 

   8. Trafalgar – Highlights of Singapore and Malaysia (12 Days) 

A melting pot of religions and cultures, from Buddhism to Catholicism, from the Dutch to the Chinese and British, explore the region’s vibrant heritage. Stroll through the bustling streets of Chinatown and Little India in Singapore and Dutch Square in Malacca, Malaysia.

 

 

   9. Trafalgar – Vietnam and Cambodia Uncovered (18 Days)

Travel from the beauty of Halong Bay to a chilling encounter with the abandoned capital of Angkor Thom, left in ruins deep in the dense Cambodian jungle, and head to Phnom Penh, a city that has risen from the past to regain its reputation as the ‘Pearl of Asia’.

 

 

   10. Trafalgar – Saigon and Bangkok Explorer (9 Days) 

Contemplate the past and the present in this in-depth encounter with the stunning urban panoramas, youthful vitality and centuries-old culture, heritage and vibrant traditions of Ho Chi Minh City and Bangkok.

 

 

Best tours to Southeast Asia from Tourradar (best site to search and compare tours in Southeast Asia of different durations, styles, prices, and operators)

 

   11. Tourradar – Bangkok and Golden Triangle (7 Days)

Start in Bangkok and end in Chiang Rai! With the cultural tour you will have a 7-day package that will take you to Bangkok, Thailand, and 2 other destinations in the country. Includes hotel accommodation, plus an expert guide, meals, transportation and more.

 

 

   12. Tourradar -Burma Legend Adventure: Private Tour (8 Days)

Start and end in Yangon! With the tour you have a 12-day package that will take you to Yangon and 8 other destinations in Myanmar. It includes hotel accommodation, flights, an expert guide, meals, transport and much more.

 

 

   13. Tourradar – Sumatra Overland Discovery (10 Days) 

Start in Medan and end in Padang! With the cultural tour you will have a 10-day package that will take you through Medan, Indonesia, and 8 other destinations in the country. It offers hotel accommodation as well as an expert guide, meals, transportation and more.

 

 

Concluding…

Southeast Asia, over time, has transformed into a fascinating destination for those who love cultural, historical and adventure experiences.

With several options for tours and excursions, it is a good idea to carry out thorough research before choosing the company that best suits your needs and expectations. Take a close look at reviews from other travelers and details of accommodation options to ensure a smooth and safe journey.

In the end, no matter your choice of company, we are certain that exploring Southeast Asia will be a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience!

 

 

Planning your next trip?

Already reserved your hotel or hostel? If not, we recommend Booking.com. They have a huge selection of hotels and hostels all over the world. Plus, in most cases, you can cancel your reservation without any costs up to a few days before the check-in date! 

 

Still haven’t booked your plane ticket and want to save big? Take a look at Momondo. It’s a flight aggregator that combines several other ticket search websites to make it easier for you to compare prices and make sure you are getting the best deal. 

 

And finally, will you need to rent a car during your trip? Then check out Rentalcar.com to search and compare car rental companies from all over the world in a single website. Then, you can find the cheapest price for the best car!

 

Planning your next trip?

Then don’t forget travel insurance! You don’t want to get stuck paying a ton of money and ruining your trip if you get sick or have an accident without travel insurance. Our page with The 3 Best and Cheapest Travel Insurance on the Market can help you choose the right plan and will give you some discount coupons for the biggest insurance companies!

 

 Already reserved your hotel or hostel? If not, our article with The 6 Best and Cheapest Websites to Find & Reserve Accommodation can help you out. You’ll also find some promotions and discount codes.

 

 Still haven’t booked your plane ticket and want to save big? Take a look at our page with 16 Tips to Save on Flights where you’ll also find the 4 best websites to buy your plane tickets. 

 

And finally, will you need to rent a car during your trip? Then surely our page with The 5 Best and Cheapest Websites to Compare and Rent Cars Around the World will help you choose the best rental car and find a good deal.