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🇱🇦 LAOS

Landlocked, but moving to the aquatic rhythm of mighty rivers such as the Mekong, Laos is a country full of dramatic scenery and adventure. The itineraries below differ due to budget, and range from 14 to 17 days in length. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Laos itinerary:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	✈To Pakse (Book >) 🚕Pakse to Champasak taxi	Dep: Morning		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨The River Resort (Book >)	All hotels >
	If you’re travelling from Cambodia then you can fly from Siem Reap, departing and arriving in the afternoon
3	Take a day trip to the Bolaven Plateau, which can be arranged by your hotel. Relax in the evening with a stroll around the resort grounds and relaxing by the infinity pools			Anyone not from Japan or the ASEAN countries will need a visa for Laos
4	Journey to the beautiful 4000 Islands area (which can also be arranged by your hotel)			Save the environment by using a good filter water bottle
5	🚕Champasak to Pakse taxi ✈Pakse to Luang Prabang flight (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Evening	🏨Hotel Sofitel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Arrive in Luang Prabang in time for sunset by the Mekong river.			Dress conservatively when visiting temples
6-8	So much to see over the next couple of days! Start with the early morning alms-giving (which starts at 05:30 in summer and 06:30 in winter) on Sisavangvong Road. Visit the Royal Palace and the Golden Buddha Phra Bang within. The top of Mount Phousi is a wonderful place from which to watch sunset. Wat Mai palace, Wat Visoun and Xieng Thong are also worth some of your time. Pick up some souvenirs from the morning market (06:30-10:00). Take a tuk tuk to Kuang Si Falls.			This blog post offers guidance on how to behave respectfully at the alms-giving.
9	⛴️Luang Prabang to Pakbeng ferry (Book >)	Dep: 07:00	Arr: 17:00	🏨Luang Say Lodge
	Embark on your tour up the mighty Mekong. Today you’ll visit Pak Ou cave and a hill tribe village.			Pack plenty of sunscreen – the sun is especially strong on the river
10	⛴️Pakbeng to Huay Xai ferry	Dep: 08:00	Arr: 17:00	🏨Nakaraj Princess (Book >)	All hotels >
	You’ll make more stops today including, after lunch, a visit to a traditional Laotian village of Ban Gon Dturn, before arriving in Huay Xai on the border with Thailand.			The border closes at 18:00 and cruise staff on both sides of the border can help with travel to Chiang Rai.
11	🚕Huay Xai to Luang Nam Tha taxi	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 13:00	🏨The Boat Landing (Book >)	All hotels >
	Once you’ve arrived in Luang Nam Tha take a look at the Golden Stupa and enjoy dinner at the bustling night market.			Be aware of pick pockets in busy market areas.
12	Book a one-day trek in the verdant, magnificent Nam Ha National Protected Area, where you’ll taste some local food as well as visit a Khmu village.			Trekking here is mildly challenging – bring insect repellant.
13	✈Luang Nam Tha to Vientiane flight (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Evening	🏨Crowne Plaza (Book >)	All hotels >
	Relax in a traditional herbal sauna before flying to the capital.			Luang Nam Tha is close to the Chinese border, should you wish to add to your Laos itinerary.
14-15	✈Vientiane to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Laos itinerary with the Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia & Borneo or Cambodia itinerary
	Spend the morning chilling in the roof garden infinity pool before heading to the airport.
Mid-range
1	✈To Pakse (Book >)	Dep: Morning		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨Athena Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	If you’re travelling from Cambodia then you can fly from Siem Reap, departing and arriving in the afternoon.
3	Your hotel can help arrange a taxi to tour around the Bolevan Plateau – a superb day trip from Pakse.			Anyone not from Japan or the ASEAN countries will need a visa for Laos
4	Today you’ll go on a day trip to the 4000 Islands (book here), departing Pakse at 08:00 and returning at 14:00. Spend the rest of your day visiting pretty Wat Luang.			Save the environment by using a good filter water bottle
5	✈Pakse to Luang Prabang flight (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Evening	🏨Mekong Riverview (Book >)	All hotels >
	Arrive in Luang Prabang in time for sunset by the Mekong river.			Dress conservatively when visiting temples
6-8	So much to see over the next couple of days! Start with the early morning alms-giving (which starts at 05:30 in summer and 06:30 in winter) on Sisavangvong Road. Visit the Royal Palace and the Golden Buddha Phra Bang within. The top of Mount Phousi is a wonderful place from which to watch sunset. Wat Mai palace, Wat Visoun and Xieng Thong are also worth some of your time. Pick up some souvenirs from the morning market (06:30-10:00). Take a tuk tuk to Kuang Si Falls			This blog post offers guidance on how to behave respectfully at the alms-giving
9	🚐Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw minibus	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 14:00	🏨Mandala Ou Resort (Book >)	All hotels >
	There are many hikes around Nong Khiaw, including to the nearby Phatok Caves. If you prefer to get on the water then go on a kayaking trip along the Nam Ou, or maybe hire a bike and visit the Khmu and Hmong villages in the area.			Ask your hotel for help with booking a minivan to Nong Khiaw
10	🚌Nong Khiaw to Oudomsay bus	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 15:00	🏨Namkat Yorla Pa (Book >)	All hotels >
	A couple more hours to enjoy the countryside around Nong Khiaw before taking the bus to Oudomsay. When you arrive you can walk up to the stupa and admire the views from the top, or hire a motorbike and visit Nam Kad Waterfall.			Oudomsay is also known as Muang Xay and Udom Xai (many places in Laos have multiple names)
11	The tourism office offers a 1-day tour to Ban Chom Ong village and the Chom Ong cave – the largest in Laos and a breathtaking sight to behold.			Remember to bring insect repellant and sunscreen
12	✈Oudomsay to Vientiane flight (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Crowne Plaza (Book >)	All hotels >
	In Vientiane you may have time to visit the That Luang stupa. In the evening head to the Mekong riverfront for a memorable sunset.			From Oudomsay you can also travel by bus to China or Thailand via Luang Nam Tha, should you wish to add to your Laos itinerary.
13-14	✈Vientiane to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Laos itinerary with the Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia & Borneo or Cambodia itinerary
	Spend the morning chilling in the roof garden infinity pool before heading to the airport.
Budget
1	✈To Pakse (Book >)	Dep: Morning		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨Chato Hostel (Book >)	All hotels >
	If you’re travelling from Cambodia then you can take a bus from Siem Reap at 08:00, arriving into Pakse by 18:00
3	Your hostel can help arrange a tour around the Bolevan Plateau – a superb day trip from Pakse			Anyone not from Japan or the ASEAN countries will need a visa for Laos
4	🚌Pakse to Vientiane bus (Book >)	Dep: 20:30		🏨Bus
	Today you’ll go on a day trip to the 4000 Islands (book here), departing Pakse at 08:00 and returning at 14:00. Spend the rest of your day visiting pretty Wat Luang before your night bus to Vientiane			It’s also possible (and considerably faster, but more expensive) to fly to Vientiane
5	🚌Pakse to Vientiane bus 🚐Vientiane to Vang Vieng minibus (Book >)	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 06:30 Arr: 14:00	🏨Jasmine Vang Vieng Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	While Vang Vieng is known to be a party town, it’s also an excellent base from which to explore the surrounding countryside. After you’ve arrived hire a bicycle and visit the Blue Lagoon			Save the environment by using a good filter water bottle
6	Beat the crowds and go on a tubing trip earlier in the day. If you like to be more active then kayaking is also available			This Wikitravel page offers some advice on unscrupulous practises in Vang Vieng.
7	🚌Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang bus (Book >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 15:00	🏨Mad Monkey (Book >)	All hotels >
	Arrive in time for sunset from the top of Mount Phousi			Dress conservatively when visiting temples
8-9	So much to see over the next couple of days! Start with the early morning alms-giving (which starts at 05:30 in summer and 06:30 in winter) on Sisavangvong Road. Visit the Royal Palace and the Golden Buddha Phra Bang within. Wat Mai palace, Wat Visoun and Xieng Thong are also worth some of your time. Pick up some souvenirs from the morning market (06:30-10:00). Take a tuk tuk to Kuang Si Falls			This blog post offers guidance on how to behave respectfully at the alms-giving
10	🚐Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw minibus	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 14:00	🏨Pho Sai River View (Book >)	All hotels >
	There are many hikes around Nong Khiaw, including to the nearby Phatok Caves. If you prefer to get on the water then go on a kayaking trip along the Nam Ou, or maybe hire a bike and visit the Khmu and Hmong villages in the area.			Ask your hostel for help with booking a minivan to Nong Khiaw
11	🚌Nong Khiaw to Oudomsay	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 15:00	🏨Amphon Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	A couple more hours to enjoy the countryside around Nong Khiaw before taking the bus to Oudomsay. When you arrive you can walk up to the stupa and admire the views from the top, or hire a motorbike and visit Nam Kad Waterfall			Oudomsay is also known as Muang Xay and Udom Xai (many places in Laos have multiple names)
12	The tourism office offers a 1-day tour to Ban Chom Ong village and the Chom Ong cave – the largest in Laos and a breathtaking sight to behold			Remember to bring insect repellant and sunscreen
13	🚐Oudomsay to Luang Nam Tha minibus (Info >)	Dep: 11:30	Arr: 14:30	🏨Zuela Guesthouse (Book >)	All hotels >
	Once you’ve arrived in Luang Nam Tha take a look at the Golden Stupa and enjoy dinner at the bustling night market			Be aware of pick pockets in busy market areas
14	Book a one-day trek in the verdant, magnificent Nam Ha National Protected Area, where you’ll taste some local food as well as visit a Khmu village			Trekking here is mildly challenging – bring good walking boots
15	🚌Luang Nam Tha to Huay Xai bus (Info >) 🚌Huay Xai to Chiang Rai bus (Info >)	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 16:00	Arr: 13:00 Arr: 19:00	🏨Na-Rak-O Resort (Book >)	All hostels >
	Once you’ve arrived in Chiang Rai (Thailand) you’ll have time in the evening to visit the night bazaar.			Luang Nam Tha is close to the Chinese border, should you wish to add to your Laos itinerary.
16-17	✈Chiang Rai to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Laos itinerary with the Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia & Borneo or Cambodia itinerary
	Take a trip to Wat Rong Khun and the Black House before heading to the airport.

🇮🇪🇬🇧 IRELAND

Magnificent countryside, dramatic scenery, countless historic sights and lively cities reward every visitor to the island of Ireland (or Éire in Irish) This itinerary takes in the best bits of the country of Ireland, as well as Northern Ireland. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Ireland itinerary:

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Luxury
1	To Dublin (✈ Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Morning Morning	Arr: Morning Afternoon	🏨The Merrion Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	When you arrive you should have time to pay a visit to St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Dublin Castle.			If you’re planning to visit several sights then invest in a Dublin Pass.
2-3	Fans of Guinness will no doubt already know of the Guinness Storehouse, but any visitor will enjoy looking around this impressive brewery. More of a whiskey connoisseur? Then the Old Jameson Distillery is for you. Non-alcohol sights include O’Connell street, Ha’penny Bridge, Christ Church Cathedral, Trinity College Library and the Flea Market. In the evenings the pubs of Temple Bar is where to be.			Get a Leap Card, which will save you money on public transport in several Irish cities including Dublin.
4	🚗Dublin to Killarney (Hire car >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 18:00	🏨The Killarney Park (Book >)	All hotels >
	Driving to Killarney you’ll join the Ring of Kerry drive and enjoy stunning countryside scenery. On the way to Killarney you’ll pass the Rock of Cashel – worth a stop for this historic site. You should also divert to Blarney Castle and kiss the famous stone.			Country roads in Ireland can be narrow – I recommend hiring a smaller car.
5	Spend a day in Killarney National Park and be sure to visit Muckross Abbey, Ross Castle and Torc Waterfall. The town of Killarney is itself bursting with charm.			A Heritage Card can save you money if you plan to visit several Irish heritage sites.
6	🚗Killarney to Portmagee 🚗Portmagee to Dingle	Dep: 08:30 Dep: 13:00	Arr: 09:45 Arr: 15:00	🏨Dingle Benners Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	On your way to Dingle stop off at Portmagee and take a ferry tour to Skellig Michael. Start your visit to the Dingle Peninsula with a drive across Conor Pass			Come prepared for rain. Lots and lots of rain.
7	🚗Dingle to Doolin	Dep: 15:00	Arr: 18:15	🏨Hotel Doolin (Book >)	All hotels >
	Continue your visit to the Dingle Peninsula with a drive to picturesque Annascaul, dramatic Slea Head, the panoramic views from Mount Brandon and the villages of The Gaeltacht – you may need more time. You’ll find plenty of lively pubs in Doolin, famous for its music scene.			You’re likely to hear a lot of Irish spoken in the Gaeltacht areas – learn a few words and make a good impression.
8	🚗Doolin to Galway	Dep: 13:00	Arr: 14:30	🏨Glenlo Abbey Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Doolin is the gateway to the Cliffs of Moher, where you’ll spend the first part of today. Unesco-listed Galway offers medieval walls, the fascinating Galway City Museum, cosy pubs, cute streets and the seaside Salthill Promenade.			Seeing the Cliffs of Moher on a boat tour is highly recommended.
9	🚗Galway to Belfast	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 14:30	🏨The Merchant Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	A little more time to enjoy Galway before driving to Belfast, where you can enjoy sights such as Titanic Belfast and Crumlin Road Gaol.			Remember to bring both GBP for Northern Ireland and Euros for Ireland.
10	Take the car north to Dunluce Castle. Next to this is the geologically impressive Giant’s Causeway and the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge.			The coast around Giant’s Causeway is great for hiking, if you have time in your Ireland itinerary.
11	🚗Belfast to Dublin	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 13:30	🏨The Merrion Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	You can either return home from Belfast, or drive back to Dublin via the prehistoric monument of Newgrange.			Be aware that road signs switch from MPH to KPH, travelling from N Ireland to Ireland.
12	Dublin to Home (✈ Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Ireland itinerary with the Bruges & Ghent or France itinerary.
	The ferry port and airport are far apart – choose your car rental location accordingly.
Mid-range
1	To Dublin (✈ Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Morning Morning	Arr: Morning Afternoon	🏨Clayton Charlemont (Book >)	All hotels >
	When you arrive you should have time to pay a visit to St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Dublin Castle.			If you’re planning to visit several sights then invest in a Dublin Pass.
2-3	Fans of Guinness will no doubt already know of the Guinness Storehouse, but any visitor will enjoy looking around this impressive brewery. More of a whiskey connoisseur? Then the Old Jameson Distillery is for you. Non-alcohol sights include O’Connell street, Ha’penny Bridge, Christ Church Cathedral, Trinity College Library and the Flea Market. In the evenings the pubs of Temple Bar is where to be.			Get a Leap Card, which will save you money on public transport in several Irish cities including Dublin.
4	🚗Dublin to Killarney (Hire car >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 18:00	🏨Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa (Book >)	All hotels >
	Driving to Killarney you’ll join the Ring of Kerry drive and enjoy stunning countryside scenery. On the way to Killarney you’ll pass the Rock of Cashel – worth a stop for this historic site. You should also divert to Blarney Castle and kiss the famous stone.			Country roads in Ireland can be narrow – I recommend hiring a smaller car.
5	Spend a day in Killarney National Park and be sure to visit Muckross Abbey, Ross Castle and Torc Waterfall. The town of Killarney is itself bursting with charm.			A Heritage Card can save you money if you plan to visit several Irish heritage sites.
6	🚗Killarney to Portmagee 🚗Portmagee to Dingle	Dep: 08:30 Dep: 13:00	Arr: 09:45 Arr: 15:00	🏨Dingle Benners Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	On your way to Dingle stop off at Portmagee and take a ferry tour to Skellig Michael. Start your visit to the Dingle Peninsula with a drive across Conor Pass			Come prepared for rain. Lots and lots of rain.
7	🚗Dingle to Doolin	Dep: 15:00	Arr: 18:15	🏨Hotel Doolin (Book >)	All hotels >
	Continue your visit to the Dingle Peninsula with a drive to picturesque Annascaul, dramatic Slea Head, the panoramic views from Mount Brandon and the villages of The Gaeltacht – you may need more time. You’ll find plenty of lively pubs in Doolin, famous for its music scene.			You’re likely to hear a lot of Irish spoken in the Gaeltacht areas – learn a few words and make a good impression.
8	🚗Doolin to Galway	Dep: 13:00	Arr: 14:30	🏨The Twelve Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Doolin is the gateway to the Cliffs of Moher, where you’ll spend the first part of today. Unesco-listed Galway offers medieval walls, the fascinating Galway City Museum, cosy pubs, cute streets and the seaside Salthill Promenade.			Seeing the Cliffs of Moher on a boat tour is highly recommended.
9	🚗Galway to Belfast	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 14:30	🏨Hampton by Hilton (Book >)	All hotels >
	A little more time to enjoy Galway before driving to Belfast, where you can enjoy sights such as Titanic Belfast and Crumlin Road Gaol.			Remember to bring both GBP for Northern Ireland and Euros for Ireland
10	Take the car north to Dunluce Castle. Next to this is the geologically impressive Giant’s Causeway and the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge.			The coast around Giant’s Causeway is great for hiking, if you have time in your Ireland itinerary.
11	🚗Belfast to Dublin	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 13:30	🏨Clayton Charlemont (Book >)	All hotels >
	You can either return home from Belfast, or drive back to Dublin via the prehistoric monument of Newgrange.			Be aware that road signs switch from MPH to KPH, travelling from N Ireland to Ireland.
12	Dublin to Home (✈ Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Ireland itinerary with the Bruges & Ghent or France itinerary.
	The ferry port and airport are far apart – choose your car rental location accordingly.
Budget
1	To Dublin (✈ Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Morning Morning	Arr: Morning Afternoon	🏨Jacobs Inn (Book >)	All hostels >
	When you arrive you should have time to pay a visit to St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Dublin Castle.			If you’re planning to visit several sights then invest in a Dublin Pass.
2	Fans of Guinness will no doubt already know of the Guinness Storehouse, but any visitor will enjoy looking around this impressive brewery. More of a whiskey connoisseur? Then the Old Jameson Distillery is for you. Non-alcohol sights include O’Connell street, Ha’penny Bridge, Christ Church Cathedral, Trinity College Library and the Flea Market. In the evenings the pubs of Temple Bar is where to be.			Get a Leap Card, which will save you money on public transport in several Irish cities including Dublin.
3	🚌Dublin to Cashel 🚌Cashel to Cork 🚌Cork (South Terrace) to Blarney 🚌Blarney to Cork (City Hall) 🚌Cork to Killarney (Book >)	Dep: 08:00 Dep: 12:05 Dep: 13:55 Dep: 16:28 Dep: 17:30	Arr: 10:25 Arr: 13:45 Arr: 14:30 Arr: 17:12 Arr: 19:05	🏨Black Sheep Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Driving to Killarney you’ll join the Ring of Kerry drive and enjoy stunning countryside scenery. On the way to Killarney you’ll pass the Rock of Cashel – worth a stop for this historic site. You can also divert to Blarney Castle and kiss the famous stone.			Missed a bus? They are pretty frequent, so don’t worry.
4	Spend a day in Killarney National Park on a tour or by hiring a bike and be sure to visit Muckross Abbey, Ross Castle and Torc Waterfall. The town of Killarney is itself bursting with charm.			A Heritage Card can save you money if you plan to visit several Irish heritage sites.
5	🚄Killarney to Tralee (Book >) 🚌Tralee to Dingle (Book >)	Dep: 10:20 Dep: 11:00	Arr: 10:58 Arr: 12:02	🏨Hideout Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Once you arrive in Dingle head straight out on a hike to Annascaul, taking the bus back.			Come prepared for rain. Lots and lots of rain.
6	🚌Dingle to Tralee (Book >) 🚌Tralee to Limerick (Book >) 🚌Limerick to Ennis (Book >) 🚌Ennis to Doolin (Book >)	Dep: 09:30 Dep: 11:00 Dep: 13:25 Dep: 14:30	Arr: 10:33 Arr: 13:05 Arr: 14:25 Arr: 15:35	🏨Aille River Holiday Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	You may want extra time to explore the Dingle Peninsula, but if not then head on to Doolin – famous for its music scene – where you’ll find plenty of lively pubs.			You’re likely to hear a lot of Irish spoken in the Gaeltacht areas – learn a few words and make a good impression.
7	🚌Doolin to Galway (Book >)	Dep: 13:33	Arr: 15:30	🏨Galway City Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Doolin is the gateway to the Cliffs of Moher, where you’ll spend the first part of today (check bus times here). Unesco-listed Galway offers medieval walls, the fascinating Galway City Museum, cosy pubs, cute streets and the seaside Salthill Promenade.			Seeing the Cliffs of Moher on a boat tour is highly recommended.
8	🚌Galway to Dublin (Book >)	Dep: 10:15	Arr: 12:40	🏨Jacobs Inn (Book >)	All hostels >
	You probably didn’t get to see all of Dublin’s sights on day 2 of this Ireland itinerary, so here’s your chance to make up for what you missed.			Remember to bring both GBP for Northern Ireland and Euros for Ireland.
9	🚌Dublin to Belfast (Book >)	Dep: 08:15	Arr: 10:35	🏨Botanical Backpackers (Book >)	All hostels >
	Once you arrive into Belfast visit sights Belfast such as Titanic Belfast and Crumlin Road Gaol.			Save money by taking a free walking tour (but don’t forget to tip).
10	Take the 09:30 tour to the Giant’s Causeway, on which you’ll also visit Carrickfergus Castle, the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and the Dark Hedges.			A Heritage Card can save you money if you plan to visit several Irish heritage sites.
11	🚌Belfast to Dublin (Book >) Dublin to Home (✈ Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: 09:45 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 11:40 Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Ireland itinerary with the Bruges & Ghent or France itinerary.
	The ferry port and airport are far apart – choose your bus route accordingly.

🇱🇰 SRI LANKA

Ancient sites, tough but rewarding treks and gorgeous beaches await intrepid travellers in Sri Lanka. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Sri Lanka itinerary:

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Luxury
1	✈To Colombo (Book >)	Dep: Morning		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨Jetwing Beach (Book >)	All hotels >
	Ease into Sri Lanka by starting your journey in Negombo, close to the airport yet beside beautiful, serene beaches.			Book your private transfer from the airport here.
3	🚗Negombo to Habarana drive (Book >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 13:00	🏨Cinnamon Lodge Habarana (Book >)	All hotels >
	Meet your driver and guide, who will drive you to Habarana. This will be your base for a couple of days. Start your exploration of the area with a tour of the royal ancient city of Polonnaruwa.			Check here to see if you need a visa for Sri Lanka and to apply.
4-5	Climb Sigiriya (or Lion Rock) and learn about its legendary and historical past. You’ll also have plenty of time for a safari in Minneriya National Park where you will spot elephants, monkeys deer and more.			Sigiriya can be an extremely popular place – arrive early to avoid crowds.
6	🚗Habarana to Kandy drive	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 16:00	🏨The Secret Kandy (Book >)	All hotels >
	Visit the Dambulla cave temples – a fascinating World Heritage Site – on the drive to Kandy. You may also want to ask your drive to stop at one of the fragrant spice gardens in Matale (the drive time has allowed for both stops).			Travel times here can be a little slower than expected – I’ve built in extra time to reflect this.
7	🚗Kandy to Ella drive	Dep: 15:00	Arr: 19:00	🏨Ella Master Point Luxury Suite (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy a tour of Kandy, visiting the Royal Botanical Gardens, the venerated Buddhist temple Sri Dalada Maligawa (or Temple of the Tooth), Kandy Lake and the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha statue.			Cover legs and shoulders when entering temples.
8	🚗Ella to Galle drive	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 14:00	🏨Aditya Boutique (Book >)	All hotels >
	An 02:00 wake up (yep, 2AM) to start the 3 hour climb around 5,500 steps up Adam’s Peak, arriving in time for a breathtaking dawn. Admire the spectacular views from the top, see the somewhat unimpressive footprint of either Adam, Shiva or Buddha. Rest your aching legs on the drive to Galle.			The climb takes between 2-4 hours up and 1-2 hours down. The latest dawn (at around 06:29) is in late Jan/early Feb, the earliest (05:57) in Oct.
9-13	You’ve earned this: endless tropical beaches and serene beachside restaurants. Take a few days to recuperate before heading home, but be sure to set aside some time to visit the old Dutch town in the Fort.			Before you bid them farewell on day 8, don’t forget to tip your driver/guide (I recommend about Rs1000/day).
14	🚕Galle to Colombo Airport transfer (Book >) ✈Colombo to home (Book >)	Dep: 07:00 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 10:00 Arr: Evening	Connect this itinerary with the Southern India, Rajasthan – India or Nepal itinerary
	Indirect flights leave in the morning, in which case stay in Colombo overnight.
Mid-range
1	✈To Colombo (Book >)	Dep: Morning		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨Cinnamon Red (Book >)	All hotels >
	Dive in to the bustling streets of Colombo, focusing on the colonial buildings in the Fort area			Check here to see if you need a visa for Sri Lanka and to apply.
3	🚄Colombo to Habarana train (Book >)	Dep: 15:05	Arr: 18:42	🏨Priya Home Stay (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take the train to Habarana. This will be your base for a couple of days.			Book your train tickets as far in advance as possible. For the Colombo to Galle journey on day 8, buy your ticket in Colombo Fort station.
4-5	Start your exploration of the area with a tour of the royal ancient city of Polonnaruwa (you can either take a taxi or train here). Climb Sigiriya (or Lion Rock) and learn about its legendary and historical past. If you’ve time go on a safari in Minneriya National Park where you will spot elephants, monkeys deer and more.			Sigiriya can be an extremely popular place – take a taxi to get there early and avoid the crowds.
6	🚌Habarana to Dambulla bus 🚌Dambula to Kandy bus	Dep: 08:11 Dep: 10:30	Arr: 08:52 Arr: 13:00	🏨Private Apt With Scenic View (Book >)	All hotels >
	Visit the Dambulla cave temples – a fascinating World Heritage Site – on the way to Kandy. When you arrive into Kandy, drop off your bags then visit the New Ranweli Spice Garden.			Take bus 48-16 from Habanara towards Colombo. From Dambulla buses leave for Kandy every 30 mins or so.
7	🚕Kandy to Dalhousie taxi (Book >)	Dep: 16:00	Arr: 18:00	🏨Slightly Chilled Yellow House (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy a tour of Kandy, visiting the Royal Botanical Gardens, the venerated Buddhist temple Sri Dalada Maligawa (or Temple of the Tooth), Kandy Lake and the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha statue.			Cover legs and shoulders when entering temples.
8	🛺Dalhousie to Hatton tuk-tuk 🚄Hatton to Colombo train (Book >) 🚄Colombo to Galle train	Dep: 09:15 Dep: 10:39 Dep: 15:50	Arr: 10:15 Arr: 15:27 Arr: 17:34	🏨Aditya Boutique (Book >)	All hotels >
	An 02:00 wake up (yep, 2AM) to start the 3 hour climb around 5,500 steps up Adam’s Peak, arriving in time for a breathtaking dawn. Admire the spectacular views from the top, see the somewhat unimpressive footprint of either Adam, Shiva or Buddha. Rest your aching legs on the journey to Galle.			The climb takes between 2-4 hours up and 1-2 hours down. The latest dawn (at around 06:29) is in late Jan/early Feb, the earliest (05:57) in Oct.
9-13	You’ve earned this: endless tropical beaches and serene beachside restaurants. Take a few days to recuperate before heading home, but be sure to set aside some time to visit the old Dutch town in the Fort.			Before you bid them farewell on day 8, don’t forget to tip your driver/guide (I recommend about Rs1000/day).
14	🚕Galle to Colombo Airport transfer (Book >) ✈Colombo to home (Book >)	Dep: 07:00 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 10:00 Arr: Evening	Connect this itinerary with the Southern India, Rajasthan – India or Nepal itinerary
	Indirect flights leave in the morning, in which case stay in Colombo overnight.
Budget
1	✈To Colombo (Book >)	Dep: Morning		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨Miracle City Inn (Book >)	All hostels >
	Dive in to the bustling streets of Colombo, focusing on the colonial buildings in the Fort area			Check here to see if you need a visa for Sri Lanka and to apply.
3	🚄Colombo to Habarana train (Book >)	Dep: 15:05	Arr: 18:42	🏨Green Garden Resort (Book >)	All hostels >
	Take the train to Habarana. This will be your base for a couple of days.			Book your train tickets as far in advance as possible. For the Colombo to Galle journey on day 8, buy your ticket in Colombo Fort station.
4-5	Start your exploration of the area with a tour of the royal ancient city of Polonnaruwa (you can either take a taxi or train here). Climb Sigiriya (or Lion Rock) and learn about its legendary and historical past. If you’ve time go on a safari in Minneriya National Park where you will spot elephants, monkeys deer and more.			Sigiriya can be an extremely popular place – take a taxi to get there early and avoid the crowds.
6	🚌Habarana to Dambulla bus 🚌Dambula to Kandy bus	Dep: 08:11 Dep: 10:30	Arr: 08:52 Arr: 13:00	🏨Bed Station 210 (Book >)	All hostels >
	Visit the Dambulla cave temples – a fascinating World Heritage Site – on the way to Kandy. Enjoy a tour of Kandy, visiting the Royal Botanical Gardens, the venerated Buddhist temple Sri Dalada Maligawa (or Temple of the Tooth), Kandy Lake and the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha statue.			Take bus 48-16 from Habanara towards Colombo. From Dambulla buses leave for Kandy every 30 mins or so.
7	🚄Kandy to Hatton train (Book >) 🚌Hatton to Dalhousie bus	Dep: 12:31 Dep: 15:00	Arr: 14:30 Arr: 16:30	🏨Mountain Villa Adams Peak (Book >)	All hostels >
	Visit the New Ranweli Spice Garden before setting off for Dalhousie and an early night.			Cover legs and shoulders when entering temples.
8	🛺Dalhousie to Hatton tuk-tuk 🚄Hatton to Colombo train (Book >) 🚄Colombo to Galle train	Dep: 09:15 Dep: 10:39 Dep: 15:50	Arr: 10:15 Arr: 15:27 Arr: 17:34	🏨Luna Beach Home & Cabanas (Book >)	All hostels >
	An 02:00 wake up (yep, 2AM) to start the 3 hour climb around 5,500 steps up Adam’s Peak, arriving in time for a breathtaking dawn. Admire the spectacular views from the top, see the somewhat unimpressive footprint of either Adam, Shiva or Buddha. Rest your aching legs on the journey to Galle.			The climb takes between 2-4 hours up and 1-2 hours down. The latest dawn (at around 06:29) is in late Jan/early Feb, the earliest (05:57) in Oct.
9-13	You’ve earned this: endless tropical beaches and serene beachside restaurants. Take a few days to recuperate before heading home, but be sure to set aside some time to visit the old Dutch town in the Fort.			Before you bid them farewell on day 8, don’t forget to tip your driver/guide (I recommend about Rs1000/day).
14	🚕Galle to Colombo Airport transfer (Book >) ✈Colombo to home (Book >)	Dep: 07:00 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 10:00 Arr: Evening	Connect this itinerary with the Southern India, Rajasthan – India or Nepal itinerary
	Indirect flights leave in the morning, in which case stay in Colombo overnight.

🇦🇺 AUSTRALIA (WA &NT)

Big and with a sparse population, Western Australia and the Northern Territory are full of spectacular natural sights both above and below the water. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Northern Territory and Western Australia travel plan:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	✈To Perth (Book >)	Dep: Morning		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨Como The Treasury (Book >)	All hotels >
	You will need a visa for this Australia travel plan. More info here.
3	Take a walk through Kings Park and Botanic Garden to admire the views of the city, Swan River and Darling Range. Cruise to Fremantle, or learn about the Australian gold rush at the Perth Mint.			It’s easy enough to get around by foot in Perth, but if you’re planning to use public transport then consider investing in a Smartrider card.
4	🚗Perth to Nambung drive (Hire car >) 🚗Nambung to Kalbarri drive	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 14:00	Arr: 11:30 Arr: 18:30	🏨Gecko Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	The first long day of driving, broken up with a visit to the Pinnacles in Nambung National Park. You can relax when you get to beautiful Kalbarri and enjoy sunset from the beach.			Plan your fuel stops carefully – it can be a long way between stations – and take plenty of water.
5	🚗Kalbarri to Shark Bay drive	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 15:30	🏨Shark Bay Seafront Apartments (Book >)	All hotels >
	A little more time to enjoy Kalbarri before setting off to Shark Bay. When you arrive into Denham, Shark Bay, you can enjoy a cruise, a 4WD tour or a vast range of other activities.			Book accommodation well in advance as it can be hard to come by during holidays.
6	🚗Shark Bay to Carnarvon drive	Dep: 14:30	Arr: 18:30	🏨Tropical Farm Stay (Book >)	All hotels >
	Head over to Monkey Mia to meet the dolphins before your drive to Carnarvon.			The dolphins get fed three times between 07:45 and 12:00.
7	🚗Carnarvon to Exmouth drive	Dep: 08:00	Arr: 12:00	🏨Mantarays Ningaloo Beach Resort (Book >)	All hotels >
	If you don’t feel like rushing off then pay a visit to Carnarvon’s Space & Technology Museum. Exmouth is the gateway to Ningaloo Marine Park and so you’ll want to find yourself a tour on which you can swim with whale sharks, meet humpback whales, go snorkelling and any of a vast range of aquatic activities.			The sun is incredibly strong here, fortunately sun cream is cheap in Australia.
8	A full day in which to enjoy Ningaloo.			Whale Shark season is from March to June
9	🚗Exmouth to Port Hedland drive	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 17:30	🏨The Esplanade (Book >)	All hotels >
	A long drive with few highlights today – make the most of the open road! For an even longer journey drive to Port Hedland inland via Karijini National Park.			Be especially vigilant for wildlife if driving at dawn, dusk or night.
10	🚗Port Hedland to Broome drive	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 15:30	🏨Mantra Frangipani Broome (Book >)	All hotels >
	Drive on to Broome, stopping off at Eighty Mile Beach if you need a break. Broome’s Cable Beach is a fantastic place from which to watch sunset or embark on a camel tour.			This is a good point at which to return to Perth and either fly home or fly on to Darwin.
11	✈Broome to Kununurra flight (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Freshwater East Kimberley Apartments (Book >)	All hotels >
	Spend more time on the beach before getting your flight to Kununurra.			Save the environment by using a filter water bottle.
12	Go on a flight over the Bungle Bungle Range, or if you’re feeling more active embark on a guided day tour. After something more serene? Relax on a cruise of the Ord River.			Kununurra may be remote but there are three ATMs as well as dining options.
13	✈Kununurra to Darwin flight (Book>)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Evening	🏨Apartment (Book >)	All hotels >
	Spend the morning taking in more of the Kimberley scenery before heading to Darwin.			Darwin is a cosmopolitan city and boasts excellent Asian cuisine.
14	Visit the historical landmarks along Darwin Wharf Precinct, look around the old Fannie Bay Gaol and The Old Court House and Police Station. In the evening see a performance at Browns Mart Theatre.			It’s easy enough to walk between the sights in Darwin if you’re able.
15	🚗Darwin to Katherine drive (Hire car >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 13:00	🏨Cicada Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	Drive to Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge) and take in the natural marvels here.			Hire a 4wd vehicle to see as much of Kakadu National Park as possible.
16	🚗Katherine to Jabiru drive	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 18:00	🏨Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Head into Kakadu Naitonal Park and swim in the pool at Maguk Gorge, visit the Aboriginal rock art galleries at Ubirr, check out Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls. End your day with a cruise along Yellow Water.			Check road conditions in advance as flooding can occur.
17	🚗Kakadu to Darwin drive	Dep: 15:00	Arr: 18:00	🏨Apartment (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take in any sights you missed yesterday before driving back to Darwin.			If you want to extend your Australia travel plan then consider taking The Ghan to Alice Springs and Adelaide.
18	✈Darwin to home (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	Connect this West/North Australia travel plan with the Australia, Fiji & Samoa, New Zealand North or New Zealand South itinerary
	Book your airport transfer here.
Mid-range
1	✈To Perth (Book >)	Dep: Morning		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨Alex Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	You will need a visa for this Australia travel plan. More info here.
3	Take a walk through Kings Park and Botanic Garden to admire the views of the city, Swan River and Darling Range. Cruise to Fremantle, or learn about the Australian gold rush at the Perth Mint.			It’s easy enough to get around by foot in Perth, but if you’re planning to use public transport then consider investing in a Smartrider card.
4	🚗Perth to Nambung drive (Hire car >) 🚗Nambung to Kalbarri drive	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 14:00	Arr: 11:30 Arr: 18:30	🏨Kalbarri Sunsea Villas – Villa 5 (Book >)	All hotels >
	The first long day of driving, broken up with a visit to the Pinnacles in Nambung National Park. You can relax when you get to beautiful Kalbarri and enjoy sunset from the beach.			Plan your fuel stops carefully – it can be a long way between stations – and take plenty of water.
5	🚗Kalbarri to Shark Bay drive	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 15:30	🏨Shark Bay Seafront Apartments (Book >)	All hotels >
	A little more time to enjoy Kalbarri before setting off to Shark Bay. When you arrive into Denham, Shark Bay, you can enjoy a cruise, a 4WD tour or a vast range of other activities.			Book accommodation well in advance as it can be hard to come by during holidays.
6	🚗Shark Bay to Carnarvon drive	Dep: 14:30	Arr: 18:30	🏨Carnarvon Motel WA (Book >)	All hotels >
	Head over to Monkey Mia to meet the dolphins before your drive to Carnarvon.			The dolphins get fed three times between 07:45 and 12:00.
7	🚗Carnarvon to Exmouth drive	Dep: 08:00	Arr: 12:00	🏨Mantarays Ningaloo Beach Resort (Book >)	All hotels >
	If you don’t feel like rushing off then pay a visit to Carnarvon’s Space & Technology Museum. Exmouth is the gateway to Ningaloo Marine Park and so you’ll want to find yourself a tour on which you can swim with whale sharks, meet humpback whales, go snorkelling and any of a vast range of aquatic activities.			The sun is incredibly strong here, fortunately sun cream is cheap in Australia.
8	A full day in which to enjoy Ningaloo.			Whale Shark season is from March to June
9	🚗Exmouth to Port Hedland drive	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 17:30	🏨The Esplanade (Book >)	All hotels >
	A long drive with few highlights today – make the most of the open road! For an even longer journey drive to Port Hedland inland via Karijini National Park.			Be especially vigilant for wildlife if driving at dawn, dusk or night.
10	🚗Port Hedland to Broome drive	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 15:30	🏨The Billi (Book >)	All hotels >
	Drive on to Broome, stopping off at Eighty Mile Beach if you need a break. Broome’s Cable Beach is a fantastic place from which to watch sunset or embark on a camel tour.			This is a good point at which to return to Perth and either fly home or fly on to Darwin.
11	✈Broome to Kununurra flight (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	🏨The Kimberley Grande Resort (Book >)	All hotels >
	Spend more time on the beach before getting your flight to Kununurra.			Save the environment by using a filter water bottle.
12	Go on a flight over the Bungle Bungle Range, or if you’re feeling more active embark on a guided day tour. After something more serene? Relax on a cruise of the Ord River.			Kununurra may be remote but there are three ATMs as well as dining options.
13	✈Kununurra to Darwin flight (Book>)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Evening	🏨Argus Apartments Darwin (Book >)	All hotels >
	Spend the morning taking in more of the Kimberley scenery before heading to Darwin.			Darwin is a cosmopolitan city and boasts excellent Asian cuisine.
14	Visit the historical landmarks along Darwin Wharf Precinct, look around the old Fannie Bay Gaol and The Old Court House and Police Station. In the evening see a performance at Browns Mart Theatre.			It’s easy enough to walk between the sights in Darwin if you’re able.
15	🚗Darwin to Katherine drive (Hire car >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 13:00	🏨Beagle Motor Inn (Book >)	All hotels >
	Drive to Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge) and take in the natural marvels here.			Hire a 4wd vehicle to see as much of Kakadu National Park as possible.
16	🚗Katherine to Jabiru drive	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 18:00	🏨Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Head into Kakadu Naitonal Park and swim in the pool at Maguk Gorge, visit the Aboriginal rock art galleries at Ubirr, check out Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls. End your day with a cruise along Yellow Water.			Check road conditions in advance as flooding can occur.
17	🚗Kakadu to Darwin drive	Dep: 15:00	Arr: 18:00	🏨Argus Apartments Darwin (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take in any sights you missed yesterday before driving back to Darwin.			If you want to extend your Australia travel plan then consider taking The Ghan to Alice Springs and Adelaide.
18	✈Darwin to home (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	Connect this West/North Australia travel plan with the Australia, Fiji & Samoa, New Zealand North or New Zealand South itinerary
	Book your airport transfer here.
Budget
1	✈To Perth (Book >)	Dep: Morning		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨Spinner’s Backpackers (Book >)	All hostels >
	You will need a visa for this Australia travel plan. More info here.
3	Take a walk through Kings Park and Botanic Garden to admire the views of the city, Swan River and Darling Range. Cruise to Fremantle, or learn about the Australian gold rush at the Perth Mint.			It’s easy enough to get around by foot in Perth, but if you’re planning to use public transport then consider investing in a Smartrider card.
4	🚌Perth to Kalbarri bus (Book >)	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 16:55	🏨Kalbarri YHA (Book >)	All hostels >
	The first long day of bus travel. You can relax when you get to beautiful Kalbarri and enjoy sunset from the beach.			Consider buying YHA membership which will save you money if you plan to often stay in their hostels.
5	🚌Kalbarri to Binnu General Store shuttle (Reserve >) 🚌Binnu to Overlander Roadhouse bus (Book >) 🚌Overlander Roadhouse to Monkey Mia shuttle (Book >)	Dep: 04:25 Dep: 05:25 Dep: 07:30	Arr:05:25 Arr: 07:30 Arr: 09:30	🏨RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort (Book >)	All hotels >
	When you arrive into Monkey Mia, you can enjoy a cruise, a 4WD tour or a vast range of other activities.			Integrity Coach Lines times vary by day – shuttles will meet the at the appropriate time (you’ll save money if you book the Kalbarri shuttle with the YHA there).
6	Head over to Monkey Mia to meet the dolphins and enjoy more time in and around Shark Bay.			The dolphins get fed three times between 07:45 and 12:00.
7	🚌Monkey Mia to Overlander Roadhouse shuttle (Book >) 🚌Overlander Roadhouse to Exmouth (Book >)	Dep: 06:00 Dep: 08:00	Arr: 08:00 Arr: 15:00	🏨RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park (Book >)	All hostels >
	Wake early for the journey to Exmouth, gateway to Ningaloo Marine Park.			Whale Shark season is from March to June.
8	Go a tour on which you can swim with whale sharks, meet humpback whales, go snorkelling and any of a vast range of aquatic activities.			Exmouth has a small population but is fairly spread out and so may take time to walk around.
9	🚌Exmouth to Broome bus (Book >)	Dep: 15:30		🏨Bus
	A long drive with few highlights today – make the most of the open road! For an even longer journey take the weekly bus via Karijini National Park.			Book accommodation well in advance as it can be hard to come by during holidays.
10	🚌Port Hedland to Broome drive		Arr: 08:15	🏨Beaches of Broome (Book >)	All hostels >
	Broome’s Cable Beach is a fantastic place from which to watch sunset or embark on a camel tour.			This is a good point at which to return to Perth and either fly home or fly on to Darwin.
11	✈Broome to Kununurra flight (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Kununurra Backpackers (Book >)	All hostels >
	Spend more time on the beach before getting your flight to Kununurra.			If you wish to continue overland then Greyhound offer a 14-hour bus to Kununurra and on to Darwin.
12	Go on a flight over the Bungle Bungle Range, or if you’re feeling more active embark on a guided day tour. After something more serene? Relax on a cruise of the Ord River.			Kununurra may be remote but there are three ATMs as well as dining options.
13	✈Kununurra to Darwin flight (Book>)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Evening	🏨Darwin Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Spend the morning taking in more of the Kimberley scenery before heading to Darwin.			Darwin is a cosmopolitan city and boasts excellent Asian cuisine.
14	Visit the historical landmarks along Darwin Wharf Precinct, look around the old Fannie Bay Gaol and The Old Court House and Police Station. In the evening see a performance at Browns Mart Theatre.			It’s easy enough to walk between the sights in Darwin if you’re able.
15	🚗Darwin to Katherine drive (Hire car >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 13:00	🏨Pine Tree Motel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Drive to Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge) and take in the natural marvels here.			Hire a 4wd vehicle to see as much of Kakadu National Park as possible.
16	🚗Katherine to Jabiru drive	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 18:00	🏨Kakadu Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	Head into Kakadu Naitonal Park and swim in the pool at Maguk Gorge, visit the Aboriginal rock art galleries at Ubirr, check out Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls. End your day with a cruise along Yellow Water.			Save more money by bringing camping equipment.
17	🚗Kakadu to Darwin drive	Dep: 15:00	Arr: 18:00	🏨Darwin Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Take in any sights you missed yesterday before driving back to Darwin.			If you want to extend your Australia travel plan then consider taking a bus to Alice Springs.
18	✈Darwin to home (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	Connect this West/North Australia travel plan with the Australia, Fiji & Samoa, New Zealand North or New Zealand South itinerary
	Book your bus to the airport here.

🇮🇳 SOUTHERN INDIA

From the sublime backwaters of Kerala, to wildlife wonderlands, to ancient cities and perfect beaches – this two-week journey will give you memories to last a lifetime. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Southern India itinerary:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	✈To Kochi (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨Hotel Old Harbour (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy a relaxed day in the serene surroundings of Kochi. See the Chinese fishing nets in action, visit the opulent Mattancherry Palace and St. Francis church – the oldest European-built church in India and where Vasco da Gama was first buried.			Kochi is a pretty conservative place and so you will probably be more comfortable by dressing accordingly.
3	🚕Kochi to Alleppey taxi	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 11:30	🏨Houseboat (Book >)	All hotels >
	Book a taxi through your hotel and join your houseboat for a midday departure. Sail through the serene Kerala backwaters, stopping off at villages along the way.			Be sure to take a filter water bottle some insect repellant with you.
4	🚕Alleppey to Mettupalayam drive (Book >)	Dep: 12:30	Arr: 19:00	🏨Kurumba Village Resort (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy a relaxing morning on the water before meeting your driver and heading to the foothills of Nilgiri hills.			I highly recommend buying train tickets as far in advance as possible.
5	🚄Mettupalayam to Ooty train (Book >)	Dep: 07:10	Arr: 12:00	🏨Treebo Trip Rosefield Heritage (Book >)	All hotels >
	The Ooty Toy Train has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site – it’s well worth the early start and 35-min taxi journey. Admire the magnificent engineering as the train traverses dense rainforests and steep mountains. The colonial hill station of Ooty has a lovely lake, nearby tea plantations and some wonderful botanical gardens.			You will need to register with IRCTC to use the links featured in this Southern India itinerary before buying a ticket on their site.
6	🚕Ooty to Nagarhole National Park drive (Book >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 14:00	🏨Evolve Back Kuruba Safari Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	Drive through more plantations and spectacular views – asking your driver to stop whenever you wish – on your way to Nagarhole National Park. Settle in to your hotel then join the 15:30 jeep safari into the park.			Visit TripSavvy for a guide on how much to tip your driver.
7	Sloths, leopards, tigers, wild Dogs, sambar, antelopes, deer and boars can all be spotted in this remarkable park. Start early and get the 06:30 road and river safari.			Birds are mainly seen in the morning, elephants in the afternoon and tigers rarely.
8	🚕Nagarhole National Park to Mysore taxi	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 12:00	🏨Radisson Blu Plaza (Book >)	All hotels >
	Your hotel can help arrange your taxi to Mysore. Mysore Palace is the must-see attraction here. If you’ve time to spare after that then the almost 800 year-old Somnathpur temple is well worth a visit, as is the lofty Sri Chamundeswari Temple, or the Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens if you really want to see a tiger.			Remember to dress modestly when visiting temples.
9	🚄Mysore to Bangalore train (Book >) 🚄Bangalore to Hampi train (Book >)	Dep: 11:30 Dep: 22:05	Arr: 14:00	🏨Train
	Visit those places you were unable to see yesterday before journeying to Bangalore. Once you’ve dropped your bags at the railway station visit the immense ISKCON temple, as well as the old temples in the Basavanagudi area before heading for your night train to Hampi.			Give yourself plenty of time to travel around Bangalore as the traffic congestion can be terrible.
10	🚄Bangalore to Hampi train		Arr: 07:10	🏨WelcomHeritage Shivavilas Palace (Book >)	All hotels >
	The amazing 14th century ruins at Hampi stretch over 25 kilometers and so you’ll definitely need most of the day (and preferably a guide) to see them.			There are no ATMs in Hampi and so, if you need cash, make sure you take it out in Hospet.
11	🚄Hampi to Goa (Madgaon) train (Book >)	Dep: 06:20	Arr: 14:00	🏨Hotel Taj Exotica Goa (Book >)	All hotels >
	Glide towards the coast and start unwinding in the tropical surroundings of Goa.			Air-conditioned first class (AC1 or 1A) is the most comfortable way to travel by public train in India.
12-13	Bored of the beach? Arrange tours with your hotel, including to the Basilica of Bom Jesus, and Se Cathedral in Old Goa, Singbal’s Book House in nearby Panaji and the Dudhsagar Falls.			Learn a few local words before you travel to India
14-15	✈Goa to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Southern India itinerary with the Sri Lanka, Rajasthan – India or Nepal itinerary
	Direct flights are possible, but only at certain times of year.
Mid-range
1	✈To Kochi (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨Hotel Old Harbour (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy a relaxed day in the serene surroundings of Kochi. See the Chinese fishing nets in action, visit the opulent Mattancherry Palace and St. Francis church – the oldest European-built church in India and where Vasco da Gama was first buried.			Kochi is a pretty conservative place and so you will probably be more comfortable by dressing accordingly.
3	🚄Kochi to Alleppey train (Book >)	Dep: 08:45	Arr: 10:40	🏨Houseboat (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take a tuk-tuk to the station and arrive into Alleppey in time to board your houseboat for a midday departure. Sail through the serene Kerala backwaters, stopping off at villages along the way.			Be sure to take a filter water bottle and some insect repellant with you.
4	🚌Alleppey to Coimbatore bus (Book >)	Dep: 15:20	Arr: 21:00	🏨Treebo Trend Jansi Residency (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy a relaxing morning on the water before heading to bustling Coimbatore.			I highly recommend buying train tickets as far in advance as possible.
5	🚄Coimbatore to Mettupalayam train 🚄Mettupalayam to Ooty train (Book >)	Dep: 05:15 Dep: 07:10	Arr: 06:15 Arr: 12:00	🏨Treebo Trip Rosefield Heritage (Book >)	All hotels >
	The Ooty Toy Train has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site – it’s well worth the early start and 35-min taxi journey. Admire the magnificent engineering as the train traverses dense rainforests and steep mountains. The colonial hill station of Ooty has a lovely lake, nearby tea plantations and some wonderful botanical gardens.			You will need to register with IRCTC to use the links featured in this Southern India itinerary before buying a ticket on their site.
6	🚌Ooty to Bandipur bus (Info >)	Dep: 08:24	Arr: 10:30	🏨Dhole’s Den Bandipur (Book >)	All hotels >
	Drop your bags off at your hotel and arrange your safari in the village. If you want to save money then join the 15:30 bus safari into the park.			Bus times from Ooty may change. Your bus will depart from Udhagamandalam Central Bus Stand (close to the station and so, on Day 5, you may want to check times)
7	Sloths, leopards, tigers, wild Dogs, sambar, antelopes, deer and boars can all be spotted in this remarkable park. Start early and get the 06:30 safari.			Birds are mainly seen in the morning, elephants in the afternoon and tigers rarely.
8	🚌Bandipur to Mysore bus (Info >)	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 11:30	🏨Lok Sagar Mysore Palace (Book >)	All hotels >
	Mysore Palace is the must-see attraction in this city. If you’ve time to spare after that then the almost 800 year-old Somnathpur temple is well worth a visit, as is the lofty Sri Chamundeswari Temple, or the Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens if you really want to see a tiger.			Your bus will be the one from Ooty and so exact times may not be available.
9	🚄Mysore to Bangalore train (Book >) 🚄Bangalore to Hampi train (Book >)	Dep: 11:30 Dep: 22:05	Arr: 14:00	🏨Train
	Visit those places you were unable to see yesterday before journeying to Bangalore. Once you’ve dropped your bags at the railway station visit the immense ISKCON temple, as well as the old temples in the Basavanagudi area before heading for your night train to Hampi.			Give yourself plenty of time to travel around Bangalore as the traffic congestion can be terrible.
10	🚄Bangalore to Hampi train		Arr: 07:10	🏨Capital O 41723 Shree International(Book >)	All hotels >
	The amazing 14th century ruins at Hampi stretch over 25 kilometers and so you’ll definitely need most of the day (and preferably a guide) to see them.			There are no ATMs in Hampi and so, if you need cash, make sure you take it out in Hospet.
11	🚄Hampi to Goa (Madgaon) train (Book >)	Dep: 06:20	Arr: 14:00	🏨FabExpress Vagator Cottage (Book >)	All hotels >
	Glide towards the coast and start unwinding in the tropical surroundings of Goa.			Air-conditioned first class (AC1 or 1A) is the most comfortable way to travel by public train in India.
12-13	Bored of the beach? Arrange tours with your hotel, including to the Basilica of Bom Jesus, and Se Cathedral in Old Goa, Singbal’s Book House in nearby Panaji and the Dudhsagar Falls.			Learn a few local words before you travel to India
14-15	✈Goa to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Southern India itinerary with the Sri Lanka, Rajasthan – India or Nepal itinerary
	Direct flights are possible, but only at certain times of year.
Budget
1	✈To Kochi (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨Bastian Homestay (Book >)	All hostels >
	Enjoy a relaxed day in the serene surroundings of Kochi. See the Chinese fishing nets in action, visit the opulent Mattancherry Palace and St. Francis church – the oldest European-built church in India and where Vasco da Gama was first buried.			Kochi is a pretty conservative place and so you will probably be more comfortable by dressing accordingly.
3	🚄Kochi to Alleppey train (Book >)	Dep: 08:45	Arr: 10:40	🏨Houseboat (Book >)	All hostels >
	Take a tuk-tuk to the station and arrive into Alleppey in time to board your houseboat for an 11:30 departure. Sail through the serene Kerala backwaters, stopping off at villages along the way.			Don’t forget to take a filter water bottle and some insect repellant.
4	🚄Alleppey to Coimbatore train (Book >)	Dep: 10:15	Arr: 15:27	🏨Treebo Trend Jansi Residency (Book >)	All hostels >
	Glide to the end of your houseboat journey then board the train to Coimbatore. Your hotel is near the Karpagam Cinema – going to see a Bollywood film can be great fun.			This train only departs on Fridays. See here for other train times.
5	🚄Coimbatore to Mettupalayam train 🚄Mettupalayam to Ooty train (Book >)	Dep: 05:15 Dep: 07:10	Arr: 06:15 Arr: 12:00	🏨Prabhu’s Place (Book >)	All hostels >
	The Ooty Toy Train has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site – it’s well worth the early start and 35-min taxi journey. Admire the magnificent engineering as the train traverses dense rainforests and steep mountains. The colonial hill station of Ooty has a lovely lake, nearby tea plantations and some wonderful botanical gardens.			If you use IRCTC links featured in this Southern India itinerary you’ll need to register before buying a ticket on their site. I highly recommend buying train tickets in advance.
6	🚌Ooty to Bandipur bus (Info >)	Dep: 08:24	Arr: 10:30	🏨The hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Drop your bags off at your hotel and arrange your safari in the village. If you want to save money then join the 15:30 bus safari into the park.			Bus times from Ooty may change. Your bus will depart from Udhagamandalam Central Bus Stand (close to the station and so, on Day 5, you may want to check times)
7	Sloths, leopards, tigers, wild Dogs, sambar, antelopes, deer and boars can all be spotted in this remarkable park. Start early and get the 06:30 safari.			Birds are mainly seen in the morning, elephants in the afternoon and tigers rarely.
8	🚌Bandipur to Mysore bus (Info >)	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 11:30	🏨The Mansion (Book >)	All hostels >
	Mysore Palace is the must-see attraction in this city. If you’ve time to spare after that then the almost 800 year-old Somnathpur temple is well worth a visit, as is the lofty Sri Chamundeswari Temple, or the Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens if you really want to see a tiger.			Your bus will be the one from Ooty and so exact times may not be available.
9	🚄Mysore to Bangalore train (Book >) 🚄Bangalore to Hampi train (Book >)	Dep: 11:30 Dep: 22:05	Arr: 14:00	🏨Train
	Visit those places you were unable to see yesterday before journeying to Bangalore. Once you’ve dropped your bags at the railway station visit the immense ISKCON temple, as well as the old temples in the Basavanagudi area before heading for your night train to Hampi.			Give yourself plenty of time to travel around Bangalore as the traffic congestion can be terrible.
10	🚄Bangalore to Hampi train		Arr: 07:10	🏨Apartment (Book >)	All hostels >
	The amazing 14th century ruins at Hampi stretch over 25 kilometers and so you’ll definitely need most of the day (and preferably a guide) to see them.			There are no ATMs in Hampi and so, if you need cash, make sure you take it out in Hospet.
11	🚄Hampi to Goa (Madgaon) train (Book >) 🚌Madgaon to Panjim bus	Dep: 06:20 Dep: 15:00	Arr: 14:00 Arr: 17:00	🏨The White Balcao (Book >)	All hostels >
	Spend a night amidst the wonderful old buildings of Panjim, including Singbal’s Book House.			When you arrive in Madgaon take a tuk-tuk or taxi to the KTC Bus terminus from where there are frequent services to Panjim.
12	🚕Panjim to Arpora	Dep: 10:15	Arr: 11:00	🏨Woke Morjim (Book >)	All hostels >
	Glide towards the coast and start unwinding in the tropical surroundings of Goa.			Learn a few local words before you travel to India
13-14	Enjoy a couple of days unwinding on the beach before heading home.			Be very wary of strong rip currents when in the sea
15-16	🚕Arpora to airport ✈Goa to home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon Dep: Evening	Arr: 1hr later Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Southern India itinerary with the Sri Lanka, Rajasthan – India or Nepal itinerary
	Direct flights are possible, but only at certain times of year.

🇦🇷 SOUTHERN ARGENTINA

From the cultural buzz of Buenos Aires to the mountainous view from the Seven Lakes drive, from the whales of Peninsula Valdez to the magnificent hiking in El Chalten – this vast area of Argentina is one of the most photogenic places you’ll ever see. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Southern Argentina itinerary:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	✈To Buenos Aires (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨Alvear Palace (Book >)	All hotels >
	Have a relaxing first day recuperating from jet lag. I suggest you find a cool café in Palermo and enjoy a delicious medialuna.
3	Visit Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, grab lunch at Mercado del Progreso and admire the city architecture on a walking tour.			Extend your trip with a couple of days in Uruguay, a short ferry ride away.
4	✈Buenos Aires to Puerto Madryn flight (Book >) 🚌Puerto Madryn to Puerto Pirámides bus	Dep: Morning Dep: 17:00	Arr: Afternoon Arr: 18:30	🏨Hotel Las Restingas (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take a taxi to the bus station in Puerto Madryn and catch the 17:00 bus to Peninsula Valdez.			You’ll need to pay an entry fee to the peninsula – someone will board the bus to collect the fee.
5	Whales. So many whales. You can see them on a boat trip from Puerto Pirámides, or even from the shoreline. If you want to see orca then you’ll need to take a tour to Punta Norte.			Take motion sickness tables for the whale watching trip.
6	🚌Puerto Pirámides to San Antonio Oeste bus 🚌San Antonio Oeste to Puerto Madryn bus (Book >) 🚄San Antonio Oeste to Bariloche train (Book >)	Dep: 11:00 Dep: 17:35 Dep: 22:20	12:30 Arr: 21:10	🏨Train
	Return to Puerto Madryn and pay a visit to the wonderful Museo Oceanográfico. If you’ve a couple of hours to spare walk along the beach to Punta Cuevas, where Welsh pioneers first settled. Take the bus to San Antonio Oeste and wait to board the train (which only departs on Friday nights).			Get your Tren Patagonico ticket as soon as possible – up to 2 months before departure – on the Plataforma 10 website. For sleeper cabins select ‘Camarote’.
7	🚗Bariloche to Villa La Angostura drive (Hire car >)	Dep: 14:00	Arr: 12:28 Arr: 15:50	🏨Luma Casa de Montaña (Book >)	All hotels >
	In the morning sit back and watch the vast landscapes of Patagonia roll by. Hire a car in Bariloche and enjoy the start of the spectacular Seven Lakes road to Villa La Angostura. Once you’ve arrived drive a little way on to the shores of Lago Correntoso.			You may want to allow more time to drive the Seven Lakes road as there are many scenic spots to stop at.
8	There are many incredible hikes to enjoy here, my favourite was to Cajon Negro.			The ViewRanger app was really useful for hiking in Argentina.
9	🚗Villa La Angostura to San Martín de los Andes drive	Dep: 16:00	Arr: 18:30	🏨Río Hermoso (Book >)	All hotels >
	For a more sedate hike drive down to Puerto Angostura and get a ferry to Bosque De Arrayanes Embarcadero for the glorious walk through the Los Arrayanes National Park back to the dock.			The first ferry leaves at 11am and the journey takes about one hour.
10	San Martín also has a number of enjoyable hikes in the vicinity, including the unmissable walk to Mirador Bandurrias and La Islita.			Take some cash because you’ll pay a small fee to pass through Mapuche territory.
11	🚗San Martín de los Andes to Bariloche drive	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 13:00	🏨Hotel Charming Luxury Lodge & Private Spa (Book >)	All hotels >
	Return to Bariloche and then drive on to Villa Llao Llao for a great walk along the lake before returning the car and taking a taxi to your hotel.			Not a hiker? No problem. Your hotel is in a spectacular location so why not just enjoy the views from the luxury of your own spa room.
12	Board either bus 50 or 51 to Villa Catedral. Here you can enjoy a number of hikes or even a cable car ride. My favourite hike here is to Refugio Frey.			Take a filter water bottle with you so that you can top up from streams along the way.
13	✈Bariloche to El Calafate flight (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Xelena Hotel & Suites (Book >)	All hotels >
	Another few hours in which to enjoy your luxurious hotel before departing for El Calafate.			Arrange tomorrow’s trip to the glacier in advance.
14	Take a day trip to the Perito Moreno glacier, where a boat will take you up close to the face of the glacier. There are also some excellent walkways from which to admire the glacier from various angles.			It can be expensive to get cash out of ATMs in Argentina.
15	🚌El Calafate to El Chalten bus (Book >)	Dep: 08:00	Arr: 11:00	🏨Destino Sur Hotel & Spa (Book >)	All hotels >
	Welcome to one of the best places for hiking in the world. Start with a relatively easy walk to Lago Torre – about 4 hours round trip.			When you arrive into El Chalten the bus will stop at the park visitor centre where you can figure out which walks you want to do.
16	Devote today to walking to Lago de los Tres. This is a truly spectacular route that ends with a steep incline (so be sure to have some spare energy!) When you arrive you’ll be surrounded by immense, photogenic mountains and lakes.			The final climb on today’s hike can be very busy and you may be stuck behind slower walkers – be patient and give yourself plenty of time.
17	🚌El Chalten to El Calafate bus (Book >) ✈El Calafate to Buenos Aires flight (Book >)	Dep: 08:00 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 11:00 Arr: Afternoon	🏨Alvear Palace (Book >)	All hotels >
	If you happen to be in Buenos Aires on a Sunday then you can get some great souvenirs at the San Telmo Feria. If you want to extend this southern Argentina itinerary then you can fly to Ushuaia from El Calafate (and on to Antarctica).			Bus tickets are usually only available to buy up to 2 months before departure.
18-19	✈Buenos Aires to home	Dep: Morning	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Southern Argentina itinerary with the Northern Argentina, Brazil, Northern Chile or Southern Chile itinerary
	Book your transfer to the airport.
Mid-range
1	✈To Buenos Aires (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨Carles (Book >)	All hotels >
	Have a relaxing first day recuperating from jet lag. We suggest you find a cool café in Palermo and enjoy a delicious medialuna.
3	Visit Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, grab lunch at Mercado del Progreso and admire the city architecture on a walking tour.			Extend your trip with a couple of days in Uruguay, a short ferry ride away.
4	✈Buenos Aires to Bariloche flight (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Bungalows Buena Vista (Book >)	All hotels >
	Once in Bariloche spend some time in the many chocolate shops, or maybe take a trip up to Cerro Otto, using bus 50 or 51. Take those same buses or a taxi on to Villa Llao Llao and your hotel.			It can be expensive to get cash out of ATMs in Argentina.
5	Board either bus 50 or 51 to Villa Catedral. Here you can enjoy a number of hikes or even a cable car ride. My favourite hike here is to Refugio Frey.			Not a hiker? No problem. Your hotel is in a spectacular location so why not just enjoy the views from the luxury of your own spa room.
6	🚗Bariloche to Villa La Angostura drive (Hire car >)	Dep: 15:00	Arr: 16:30	🏨Hotel Alma Andina (Book >)	All hotels >
	On your last day here enjoy a great walk along the lake from Villa Llao Llao. Take the bus to Bariloche, hire a car and enjoy the start of the spectacular Seven Lakes’ road to Villa La Angostura. Once you’ve arrived drive a little way on to the shores of Lago Correntoso.			You may want to allow more time to drive the Seven Lakes’ road as there are many scenic spots to stop at.
7	There are many incredible hikes to enjoy here, my favourite was to Cajon Negro.			The ViewRanger app was really useful for hiking in Argentina.
8	🚗Villa La Angostura to San Martín de los Andes drive	Dep: 16:00	Arr: 18:30	🏨Monte Verde (Book >)	All hotels >
	For a more sedate hike drive down to Puerto Angostura and get a ferry to Bosque De Arrayanes Embarcadero for the glorious walk through the Los Arrayanes National Park back to the dock.			The first ferry leaves at 11am and the journey takes about one hour.
9	San Martín also has a number of enjoyable hikes in the vicinity, including the unmissable walk to Mirador Bandurrias and La Islita.			You’ll need to take some cash because you’ll pay a small fee to pass through Mapuche territory.
10	🚗San Martín de los Andes to Bariloche drive 🚄Bariloche to San Antonio Oeste train (Book >)	Dep: 12:00 Dep: 17:00	Arr: 15:00	🏨Train
	Return to Bariloche and then board the train for San Antonio Oeste. Once on board sit back and watch the vast landscapes of Patagonia roll by.			Get your Tren Patagonico ticket as soon as possible – up to 2 months before departure – on the Plataforma 10 website. For sleeper cabins select ‘Camarote’.
11	🚄Bariloche to San Antonio Oeste train 🚌San Antonio Oeste to Puerto Madryn bus (Book >) 🚌Puerto Madryn to Puerto Pirámides bus	Dep: 09:40 Dep: 17:00	Arr: 07:14 Arr: 13:05 Arr: 18:30	🏨Hotel Las Restingas (Book >)	All hotels >
	Transfer to the bus to Puerto Madryn where you can grab lunch whilst waiting for the bus to Peninsula Valdez. You’ll need to pay an entry fee to the peninsula – someone will board the bus to collect the fee.			Tren Patagonico only departs on Sundays. The bus to Puerto Madryn departs a few blocks north of the train station – ask for directions.
12	Whales. So many whales. You can see them on a boat trip from Puerto Pirámides, or even from the shoreline. If you want to see orca then you’ll need to take a tour to Punta Norte.			Take motion sickness tables for the whale watching trip.
13	🚌Puerto Pirámides to Puerto Madryn bus 🚌Puerto Madryn to Esquel bus (Book >)	Dep: 11:00 Dep: 20:15	Arr: 12:30	🏨Bus
	Pay a visit to the wonderful Museo Oceanográfico in Puerto Madryn. If you’ve a couple of hours to spare walk along the beach to Punta Cuevas, where Welsh pioneers first settled.			Pack ear plugs and an eye mask for the overnight bus journeys.
14	🚌Puerto Madryn to Esquel bus 🚌Esquel to El Chalten bus (Book >)	Dep: 16:00	Arr: 06:30	🏨Bus
	With your almost 12 hours in Esquel take a ride on La Trochita – the old Patagonian Express. Walk to Laguna La Zeta or in Parque Nacional Los Alerces.			Bus tickets are usually only available to buy up to 2 months before departure.
15	🚌Esquel to El Chalten bus		Arr: 10:00	🏨Latitud 49º (Book >)	All hotels >
	Welcome to one of the best places for hiking in the world. Start with a relatively easy walk to Lago Torre – about 4 hours round trip.			When you arrive into El Chalten the bus will stop at the park visitor centre where you can figure out which walks you want to do.
16	Devote today to walking to Lago de los Tres. This is a truly spectacular route that ends with a steep incline (so be sure to have some spare energy!) When you arrive you’ll be surrounded by immense, photogenic mountains and lakes.			The final climb on today’s hike can be very busy and you may be stuck behind slower walkers – be patient and give yourself plenty of time.
17	🚌El Chalten to El Calafate bus (Book >)	Dep: 17:00	Arr: 20:00	🏨MadreTierra Patagonia (Book >)	All hotels >
	Several more hours during which you can hike to Chorrillo del Salto and/or to Los Condores.			Take a filter water bottle with you so that you can top up from streams along the way.
18	Take a day trip to the Perito Moreno glacier, where a boat will take you up close to the face of the glacier. There are also some excellent walkways from which to admire the glacier from various angles.			Arrange your trip to the glacier in advance.
19	✈El Calafate to Buenos Aires flight (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Carles (Book >)	All hotels >
	Relax before the flight to Buenos Aires. Enjoy one last evening in the Argentine capital. If you want to extend this southern Argentina itinerary then you can fly to Ushuaia from El Calafate (and on to Antarctica).			If you happen to be in Buenos Aires on a Sunday then you can get some great souvenirs at the San Telmo Feria.
20-21	✈Buenos Aires to home	Dep: Morning	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Southern Argentina itinerary with the Northern Argentina, Brazil, Northern Chile or Southern Chile itinerary
	Book your transfer to the airport.
Budget
1	✈To Buenos Aires (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨Viajero Buenos Aires (Book >)	All hostels >
	Have a relaxing first day recuperating from jet lag. We suggest you find a cool café in Palermo and enjoy a delicious medialuna.
3	Visit Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, grab lunch at Mercado del Progreso and admire the city architecture on a walking tour.			Extend your trip with a couple of days in Uruguay, a short ferry ride away.
4	✈Buenos Aires to Bariloche flight (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Hospedaje Penthouse 1004 (Book >)	All hostels >
	Once in Bariloche spend some time in the many chocolate shops, or maybe take a trip up to Cerro Otto, using bus 50 or 51.			It can be expensive to get cash out of ATMs in Argentina.
5	Board either bus 50 or 51 to Villa Catedral. Here you can enjoy a number of hikes or even a cable car ride. My favourite hike here is to Refugio Frey.			After all that hiking enjoy the incredible views across lake and mountains from the hostel.
6	🚌Bariloche to Villa La Angostura bus (Book >)	Dep: 14:30	Arr: 15:45	🏨Hostel La Angostura (Book >)	All hostels >
	On your last day in Bariloche take the bus to Villa Llao Llao for a great walk along the lake. Take the bus along the spectacular Seven Lakes road to Villa La Angostura. Once you’ve arrived walk a little way on to the shores of Lago Correntoso.			Bus routes along the Seven Lakes road are weather dependent.
7	There are many incredible hikes to enjoy here, my favourite was to Cajon Negro.			The ViewRanger app was really useful for hiking in Argentina.
8	🚌Villa La Angostura to San Martín de los Andes bus (Book >)	Dep: 14:45	Arr: 17:00	🏨Alhue Patagonia Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	For a more sedate hike walk down to Puerto Angostura and get a ferry to Bosque De Arrayanes Embarcadero for the glorious walk through the Los Arrayanes National Park back to the dock.			The first ferry leaves at 11am and the journey takes about one hour.
9	San Martín also has a number of enjoyable hikes in the vicinity, including the unmissable walk to Mirador Bandurrias and La Islita.			You’ll need to take some cash because you’ll pay a small fee to pass through Mapuche territory.
10	🚌San Martín de los Andes to Bariloche bus (Book >) 🚄Bariloche to San Antonio Oeste train (Book >)	Dep: 09:45 Dep: 17:00	Arr: 13:15	🏨Train
	Return to Bariloche and then board the train for San Antonio Oeste. Once on board sit back and watch the vast landscapes of Patagonia roll by.			Get your Tren Patagonico ticket as soon as possible – up to 2 months before departure – on the Plataforma 10 website. For sleeper cabins select ‘Camarote’.
11	🚄Bariloche to San Antonio Oeste train 🚌San Antonio Oeste to Puerto Madryn bus (Book >) 🚌Puerto Madryn to Puerto Pirámides bus	Dep: 09:40 Dep: 17:00	Arr: 07:14 Arr: 13:05 Arr: 18:30	🏨Casa de Tehuelche (Book >)	All hostels >
	Transfer to the bus to Puerto Madryn where you can grab lunch whilst waiting for the bus to Peninsula Valdez. You’ll need to pay an entry fee to the peninsula – someone will board the bus to collect the fee.			Tren Patagonico only departs on Sundays. The bus to Puerto Madryn departs a few blocks north of the train station – ask for directions.
12	Whales. So many whales. You can see them on a boat trip from Puerto Pirámides, or even from the shoreline. If you want to see orca then you’ll need to take a tour to Punta Norte.			Take motion sickness tables for the whale watching trip.
13	🚌Puerto Pirámides to Puerto Madryn bus 🚌Puerto Madryn to Esquel bus (Book >)	Dep: 11:00 Dep: 20:15	Arr: 12:30	🏨Bus
	Pay a visit to the wonderful Museo Oceanográfico in Puerto Madryn. If you’ve a couple of hours to spare walk along the beach to Punta Cuevas, where Welsh pioneers first settled.			Pack ear plugs and an eye mask for the overnight bus journeys.
14	🚌Puerto Madryn to Esquel bus 🚌Esquel to El Chalten bus (Book >)	Dep: 16:00		🏨Bus
	With your almost 12 hours in Esquel take a ride on La Trochita – the old Patagonian Express. Walk to Laguna La Zeta or in Parque Nacional Los Alerces.			Bus tickets are usually only available to buy up to 2 months before departure.
15	🚌Esquel to El Chalten bus		Arr: 10:00	🏨Hospedaje Mi Rincon (Book >)	All hostels >
	Welcome to one of the best places for hiking in the world. Start with a relatively easy walk to Lago Torre – about 4 hours round trip.			When you arrive into El Chalten the bus will stop at the park visitor centre where you can figure out which walks you want to do.
16	Devote today to walking to Lago de los Tres. This is a truly spectacular route that ends with a steep incline (so be sure to have some spare energy!) When you arrive you’ll be surrounded by immense, photogenic mountains and lakes.			The final climb on today’s hike can be very busy and you may be stuck behind slower walkers – be patient and give yourself plenty of time.
17	🚌El Chalten to El Calafate bus (Book >)	Dep: 17:00	Arr: 20:00	🏨Folk Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Several more hours during which you can hike to Chorrillo del Salto and/or to Los Condores.			Take a filter water bottle with you so that you can top up from streams along the way.
18	Take a day trip to the Perito Moreno glacier, where a boat will take you up close to the face of the glacier. There are also some excellent walkways from which to admire the glacier from various angles.			Arrange your trip to the glacier in advance (your hostel can help).
19	✈El Calafate to Buenos Aires flight (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Viajero Buenos Aires (Book >)	All hostels >
	Relax before the flight to Buenos Aires. Enjoy one last evening in the Argentine capital. If you want to extend this southern Argentina itinerary then you can fly to Ushuaia from El Calafate (and on to Antarctica).			If you happen to be in Buenos Aires on a Sunday then you can get some great souvenirs at the San Telmo Feria.
20-21	✈Buenos Aires to home	Dep: Morning	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Southern Argentina itinerary with the Northern Argentina, Brazil, Northern Chile or Southern Chile itinerary
	Book your transfer to the airport.

🇳🇵 NEPAL

You’ll need to be somewhat fit to tackle the magnificent treks in this Nepal itinerary, but the reward for all that effort is a front-row view of the world’s highest mountains. Back where the oxygen is less thin are fascinating cities and incredible wildlife-spotting opportunities. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Nepal itinerary:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	✈To Kathmandu (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨Hotel The Dwarika’s (Book >)	All hotels >
	Relax in your beautiful hotel and go for a stroll around the old city.
3	Explore the Thamel District, visit the Pashupatinath Temple, famous Boudhanath Stupa, beautiful Taleju Temple, the Patan Museum and, if time, climb up to up to the ancient Swayambhu temple for breathtaking views. Mid-afternoon head over to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bhaktapur.			Visitors from most countries can obtain a visa on arrival.
4	✈Kathmandu to Pokhara flight (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	🏨The Pavilions Himalayas (Book >)	All hotels >
	You have a little more time this morning to see any sights you missed out on yesterday before the breathtaking flight to Pokhara. Once you’ve arrived, dropped off your bags and got your trekking permit, head to the lake for a serene paddle over the water.			You will need to get a trekking permit (details here) – head straight to the Nepal Tourism Board office when you arrive in Pokhara or ask your hotel for help.
5	🚕Pokhara to Nayapul taxi 🚶Nayapul to Ulleri hike	Dep: 07:00 Dep: 09:00	Arr: 08:45 Arr: 16:00	🏨Super View Guest House
	From Nayapul walk to the Birethani checkpoint and get your permit checked. Then onwards and upwards, through valleys and past rivers. Along the way you’ll pass tea houses where you can stop off for food and drink.			It isn’t necessary to book guest houses in advance – if those I’ve recommended aren’t available then be assured that standards don’t vary much.
6	🚶Ulleri to Ghorepani hike	Dep: 07:00	Arr: 15:00	🏨Super View Lodge
	3,767 stairs to Ghorepani, stopping at beautiful Ulleri village. About halfway through the walk you’ll start getting glimpses of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Once in Ghorepani leave your bags at the teahouse and take a couple of hours to rest, before ascending Poon Hill (about 45 mins away). From the top is one of the best views you’re ever likely to see.			These trekking times allow for a slow pace and many rest stops!
7	🚶Ghorepani to Tadapani hike	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 17:30	🏨Fishtail Lodge
	Awake at 04:00 and trek back up Poon Hill for a spectacular sunrise. Return for breakfast then enjoy today’s walk through forests, over rivers, up to the highest point on the trek (about 10,000 ft) and yes, more steps. Tadapani has amazing views – including of the fishtail peak of Machhapuchhre – which you can admire over a recuperating drink.			Plastic water bottles can’t be bought on the trek – buy a filter water bottle. You’ll also need to bring your own sleeping bag, liner and towel.
8	🚶Tadapani to Birethanti hike 🚕Birethanti to Pokhara taxi	Dep: 08:00 Dep: 15:00	Arr: 14:30 Arr: 17:00	🏨The Pavilions Himalayas (Book >)	All hotels >
	A relatively easy walk, descending to Birethanti and stopping off at Ghandrung village. Back in Pokhara treat yourself to a well-earned massage.			Do you need a guide for your trek? I don’t think so, at least not for this one which is a pretty obvious route.
9	🚗Pokhara to Bandipur drive (Book >)	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 13:30	🏨Depche Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Meet your guide and enjoy the drive to Bandipur. This well-preserved medieval town boasts old temples and shrines, as well as superb views of the Himalaya from Tudikhel hill.			Be wary of the signs of altitude sickness.
10	🚗Bandipur to Andrauli drive	Dep: 08:00	Arr: 11:00	🏨Barahi Jungle Lodge(Book >)	All hotels >
	Drive on to Chitwan National Park where you will spend today and tomorrow seeking out tigers, rhinos and wild elephants.			Take a power bank with you on treks and safaris.
11	More time to see wildlife, including deer, monkeys, crocodiles, wild boars and many species of birds.			Do not ride elephants! They are often mistreated.
12	🚗Andrauli to Kathmandu drive	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 14:00	🏨Hotel The Dwarika’s (Book >)	All hotels >
	Back in Kathmandu you’ll have plenty of time to see any sights you missed on days 2-4 of this Nepal itinerary. In need of souvenirs? Pick them up at Mangal Bazaar.			You can’t take Nepalese rupees out of the country; exchange before you leave.
13	Today you’re going on a flight to see Mount Everest. The flight starts early and has you back on the ground in an hour, during which time you’ll see the world’s highest peak from your guaranteed window seat.			If you want to extend your trip then consider travelling to Lukla on day 13 for a ground view of Everest.
14	✈Kathmandu to Home (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	Connect this Nepal itinerary with the China or India (Rajasthan) itinerary
	Book your transfer to the airport.
Mid-range
1	✈To Kathmandu (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨Tibet International (Book >)	All hotels >
	Relax in your beautiful hotel and go for a stroll around the old city.
3	Explore the Thamel District, visit the Pashupatinath Temple, famous Boudhanath Stupa, beautiful Taleju Temple, the Patan Museum and, if time, climb up to up to the ancient Swayambhu temple for breathtaking views. Mid-afternoon head over to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bhaktapur.			Visitors from most countries can obtain a visa on arrival.
4	✈Kathmandu to Pokhara flight (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	You have a little more time this morning to see any sights you missed out on yesterday before the breathtaking flight to Pokhara. Once you’ve arrived, dropped off your bags and got your trekking permit, head to the lake for a serene paddle over the water.			You will need to get a trekking permit (details here) – head straight to the Nepal Tourism Board office when you arrive in Pokhara or ask your hotel for help.
5	🚕Pokhara to Nayapul taxi 🚶Nayapul to Ulleri hike	Dep: 07:00 Dep: 09:00	Arr: 08:45 Arr: 16:00	🏨Super View Guest House
	From Nayapul walk to the Birethani checkpoint and get your permit checked. Then onwards and upwards, through valleys and past rivers. Along the way you’ll pass tea houses where you can stop off for food and drink.			It isn’t necessary to book guest houses in advance – if those I’ve recommended aren’t available then be assured that standards don’t vary much.
6	🚶Ulleri to Ghorepani hike	Dep: 07:00	Arr: 15:00	🏨Super View Lodge
	3,767 stairs to Ghorepani, stopping at beautiful Ulleri village. About halfway through the walk you’ll start getting glimpses of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Once in Ghorepani leave your bags at the teahouse and take a couple of hours to rest, before ascending Poon Hill (about 45 mins away). From the top is one of the best views you’re ever likely to see.			These trekking times allow for a slow pace and many rest stops!
7	🚶Ghorepani to Tadapani hike	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 17:30	🏨Fishtail Lodge
	Awake at 04:00 and trek back up Poon Hill for a spectacular sunrise. Return for breakfast then enjoy today’s walk through forests, over rivers, up to the highest point on the trek (about 10,000 ft) and yes, more steps. Tadapani has amazing views – including of the fishtail peak of Machhapuchhre – which you can admire over a recuperating drink.			Plastic water bottles can’t be bought on the trek – buy a filter water bottle. You’ll also need to bring your own sleeping bag, liner and towel.
8	🚶Tadapani to Naya Pul hike 🚌Naya Pul to Pokhara bus	Dep: 08:00 Dep: 15:15	Arr: 14:45 Arr: 17:15	🏨Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	A relatively easy walk, descending to Naya Pul and stopping off at Ghandrung village. At the end of the trek you’ll need to wait for a passing bus back to Pokhara. Back in the city treat yourself to a well-earned massage.			Do you need a guide for your trek? I don’t think so, at least not for this one which is a pretty obvious route.
9	🚌Pokhara to Dumre Bazaar bus 🚌Dumre Bazaar to Bandipur bus	Dep: 10:30 Dep: 13:30	Arr: 13:00 Arr: 14:30	🏨Gaun Ghar (Book >)	All hotels >
	The well-preserved medieval town of Bandipur boasts old temples and shrines, as well as superb views of the Himalaya from Tudikhel hill.			Ask your hotel about transport from Dumre and to book your bus ticket to Sauraha.
10	🚌Bandipur to Dumre Bazaar bus 🚌Dumre Bazaar to Sauraha bus	Dep: 08:30 Dep: 10:30	Arr: 09:30 Arr: 13:30	🏨Green Park Chitwan (Book >)	All hotels >
	Drive on to Chitwan National Park where you will spend today and tomorrow seeking out tigers, rhinos and wild elephants.			Ask your Chitwan hotel to collect you from the bus stop.
11	More time to see wildlife, including deer, monkeys, crocodiles, wild boars and many species of birds.			Do not ride elephants! They are often mistreated.
12	🚌Sauraha to Kathmandu bus (Book >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 14:00	🏨Tibet International (Book >)	All hotels >
	Back in Kathmandu you’ll have plenty of time to see any sights you missed on days 2-4 of this Nepal itinerary. In need of souvenirs? Pick them up at Mangal Bazaar.			You can’t take Nepalese rupees out of the country; exchange before you leave.
13	Today you’re going on a flight to see Mount Everest. The flight starts early and has you back on the ground in an hour, during which time you’ll see the world’s highest peak from your guaranteed window seat.			If you want to extend your trip then consider travelling to Lukla on day 13 for a ground view of Everest.
14	✈Kathmandu to Home (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	Connect this Nepal itinerary with the China or India (Rajasthan) itinerary
	Book your transfer to the airport.
Budget
1	✈To Kathmandu (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨Flock Kathmandu Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Relax in your beautiful hotel and go for a stroll around the old city.
3	Explore the Thamel District, visit the Pashupatinath Temple, famous Boudhanath Stupa, beautiful Taleju Temple, the Patan Museum and, if time, climb up to up to the ancient Swayambhu temple for breathtaking views. Mid-afternoon head over to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bhaktapur.			Visitors from most countries can obtain a visa on arrival.
4	🚌Kathmandu to Pokhara bus (Book >)	Dep: 07:30	Arr: 15:00	🏨The Mountain House (Book >)	All hostels >
	Once you’ve arrived in Pokhara, dropped off your bags and got your trekking permit, head to the lake for a serene paddle over the water.			You will need to get a trekking permit (details here) – head straight to the Nepal Tourism Board office when you arrive in Pokhara or ask your hostel for help.
5	🚌Pokhara to Nayapul bus 🚶Nayapul to Ulleri hike	Dep: 07:00 Dep: 09:00	Arr: 09:00 Arr: 16:00	🏨Super View Guest House
	From Nayapul walk to the Birethani checkpoint and get your permit checked. Then onwards and upwards, through valleys and past rivers. Along the way you’ll pass tea houses where you can stop off for food and drink.			It isn’t necessary to book guest houses in advance – if those I’ve recommended aren’t available then be assured that standards don’t vary much.
6	🚶Ulleri to Ghorepani hike	Dep: 07:00	Arr: 15:00	🏨Super View Lodge
	3,767 stairs to Ghorepani, stopping at beautiful Ulleri village. About halfway through the walk you’ll start getting glimpses of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Once in Ghorepani leave your bags at the teahouse and take a couple of hours to rest, before ascending Poon Hill (about 45 mins away). From the top is one of the best views you’re ever likely to see.			The trekking times in this Nepal itinerary allow for a slow pace and many rest stops!
7	🚶Ghorepani to Tadapani hike	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 17:30	🏨Fishtail Lodge
	Awake at 04:00 and trek back up Poon Hill for a spectacular sunrise. Return for breakfast then enjoy today’s walk through forests, over rivers, up to the highest point on the trek (about 10,000 ft) and yes, more steps. Tadapani has amazing views – including of the fishtail peak of Machhapuchhre – which you can admire over a recuperating drink.			Plastic water bottles can’t be bought on the trek – buy a filter water bottle. You’ll also need to bring your own sleeping bag, liner and towel.
8	🚶Tadapani to Naya Pul hike 🚌Syauli Bazaar to Pokhara bus	Dep: 08:00 Dep: 15:15	Arr: 14:45 Arr: 17:15	🏨The Mountain House (Book >)	All hostels >
	A relatively easy walk, descending to Naya Pul and stopping off at Ghandrung village. At the end of the trek you’ll need to wait for a passing bus back to Pokhara. Back in Pokhara treat yourself to a well-earned massage.			Do you need a guide for your trek? I don’t think so, at least not for this one which is a pretty obvious route.
9	🚌Pokhara to Dumre Bazaar bus 🚌Dumre Bazaar to Bandipur bus	Dep: 10:30 Dep: 13:30	Arr: 13:00 Arr: 14:30	🏨Hotel The North Face (Book >)	All hotels >
	Meet your guide and enjoy the drive to Bandipur. This well-preserved medieval town boasts old temples and shrines, as well as superb views of the Himalaya from Tudikhel hill.			Ask your hotel about transport from Dumre and to book your bus ticket to Sauraha.
10	🚌Bandipur to Dumre Bazaar bus 🚌Dumre Bazaar to Sauraha bus	Dep: 08:30 Dep: 10:30	Arr: 09:30 Arr: 13:30	🏨Hotel Rhino Land (Book >)	All hostels >
	Drive on to Chitwan National Park where you will spend today and tomorrow seeking out tigers, rhinos and wild elephants.			Ask your hostel to collect you from the bus stop (free service).
11	More time to see wildlife, including deer, monkeys, crocodiles, wild boars and many species of birds.			Do not ride elephants! They are often mistreated.
12	🚌Sauraha to Kathmandu bus (Book >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 14:00	🏨Flock Kathmandu Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Back in Kathmandu you’ll have plenty of time to see any sights you missed on days 2-4 of this Nepal itinerary. In need of souvenirs? Pick them up at Mangal Bazaar.			You can’t take Nepalese rupees out of the country; exchange before you leave.
13	Today you’re going on a flight to see Mount Everest. The flight starts early and has you back on the ground in an hour, during which time you’ll see the world’s highest peak from your guaranteed window seat.			If you want to extend your trip then consider travelling to Lukla on day 13 for a ground view of Everest.
14	✈Kathmandu to Home (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	Connect this Nepal itinerary with the China or India (Rajasthan) itinerary
	Ask your hostel for help flagging a meter taxi to the airport.

🇮🇩 INDONESIA

This busy 18-day Indonesia itinerary gives travellers an amazing journey through the islands of Java, Bali and Lombok. Got some spare days? Spend longer at the beach in Lombok and Bali. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Indonesia itinerary:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	✈To Yogyakarta (Book >)	Dep: Morning		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨The Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta (Book >)	All hotels >
	You’ll have most of the day to relax by the pool in your hotel, if you’re feeling refreshed in the afternoon then visit some local Batik makers, the Taman Sari water castle and the opulent Kraton Palace.
3	Arrange a driver for with your hotel, because it’s all about the temples today, starting with Prambanan and ending with incredible Borobudur.			Visitors from most countries can get a visa on arrival or are exempt.
4	🚄Yogyakarta to Surabaya (Book >)	Dep: 09:56	Arr: 15:27	🏨Hotel Majapahit (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Built in 1910, your hotel is a part of the history of this city. But make time to get out and see the out-of-place submarine monument.			Seat 61 has excellent tips for buying Indonesian train tickets (I recommend paying a little more for first class AC).
5	🚄Surabaya to Probolinggo train (Book >) 🚕Probolinggo to Cemoro Lawang taxi	Dep: 15:27 Dep: 18:15	Arr: 18:14 Arr: 19:15	🏨Bromo Terrace (Book >)	All hotels >
	Spend a couple of hours in Surabaya’s fascinating House of Sampoerna before travelling to Cemoro Lawang.			Keep small denominations of cash on you for food, taxis, drinks etc.
6	Awake before dawn to witness sunrise over the incredible Mount Bromo landscape. Then go on a guided hike over this barren terrain and get close to the volcano itself.			You’ll need to pack for the cold – it’s freezing before sunrise!
7	🚕Bromo to Probolinggo taxi 🚄Probolinggo to Banyuwangi train (Book >) ⛴️Banyuwangi (Ketapang) to Gilimanuk ferry (Book >) 🚕Gilimanuk to Pemuteran taxi	Dep: 10:00 Dep: 11:04 Dep: 16:00 Dep: 17:00	Arr: 11:00 Arr: 15:20 Arr: 16:45 Arr: 17:30	🏨Matahari Beach (Book >)	All hotels >
	Descend the Bromo area and take the train on to the end of Java. At Banyuwangi hop in a taxi to the docks at Ketapang.			Be prepared for unreliable departure times (I’ve built in a little allowance in this Indonesia itinerary).
8	See Bali Barat National Park, which is full of forests, mangroves and rare wild animals. The Tegal Bunder Trail is highly recommended, as is a visit to Menjangan Island if you want to see some amazing marine life.			Save the environment by using a filter water bottle.
9	🚐Pemuteran to Gunung Batur drive (Book >)	Dep: 12:00	Arr: 15:00	🏨Volcano Terrace Bali (Book >)	All hotels >
	After a relaxing morning in your hotel, meet your guide who will drive you through northern Bali to the rim of Gunung Batur volcano.			Dress conservatively when visiting temples.
10	🚐Gunung Batur to Ubud drive	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 11:30	🏨The Chedi Club at Tanah Gajah (Book >)	All hotels >
	Another early start for another stunning sunrise, before driving on to the vibrant town of Ubud			The Ubud Art Market is a great place to pick up souvenirs – bargain hard!
11-12	Meet the animals at the Ubud Monkey Forest, walk through the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, visit the Goa Gajah temple complex, Pura Taman Saraswati temple and Puri Saren, take in the air along the Campuhan Ridge Walk.			Bluebird taxis are the recommended way of making short trips. Download the app on Google Play or Apple.
13	🚐Ubud to Padangbai minibus ⛴️Padangbai to Lembar ferry 🚐Lembar to Mataram minibus (Book >)	Dep: 07:00 Dep: 08:30 Dep: 11:00	Arr: 08:00 Arr: 10:35 Arr: 11:45	🏨Hotel Oberoi Lombok (Book >)	All hotels >
	This is a day on which to enjoy the journey. From the greenery and bustle of Bali, to crossing the Bali Sea, to driving along the verdant hills of Lombok. Arrive in time for sunset at the beach.			You may want to get a taxi to Denpasar and fly to Lombok, which could be faster but much less enjoyable.
14-15	Snorkel with giant sea turtles, walk beside Mount Rinjani, take a horse and cart to Tanjung Village and enjoy the exquisite beach.			Protect the reef and wildlife by using an eco-friendly sunscreen.
16	🚕Mataram to airport taxi (Book >) ✈Lombok to Denpasar flight (Book >)	Dep: 13:00 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 15:00 Arr: Evening	🏨The Samaya Seminyak Bali (Book >)	All hotels >
	Fly back to Bali and relax on the beach when you arrive.			If red flags are flown on the beach do not swim – there are dangerous undercurrents here.
17-18	✈Denpasar to Home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Indonesia itinerary with the Thailand, Malaysia & Borneo or Australia itinerary
	Soak up the sun before returning home.
Mid-range
1	✈To Yogyakarta (Book >)	Dep: Morning		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨The Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta (Book >)	All hotels >
	You’ll have most of the day to relax by the pool in your hotel, if you’re feeling refreshed in the afternoon then visit some local Batik makers, the Taman Sari water castle and the opulent Kraton Palace.
3	Arrange a driver for with your hotel, because it’s all about the temples today, starting with Prambanan and ending with incredible Borobudur.			Visitors from most countries can get a visa on arrival or are exempt.
4	🚄Yogyakarta to Surabaya train (Book >)	Dep: 09:56	Arr: 15:27	🏨Hotel Majapahit (Book >)	All hotels >
	Built in 1910, your hotel is a part of the history of this city. Spend a couple of hours in Surabaya’s fascinating House of Sampoerna.			Seat 61 has excellent tips for buying Indonesian train tickets (I recommend paying a little more for first class AC).
5	🚄Surabaya to Probolinggo train (Book >) 🚌Probolinggo bus station to Cemoro Lawang bus	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 11:30	Arr: 10:56 Arr: 13:30	🏨Bromo Terrace (Book >)	All hotels >
	Go on a guided hike over the barren Mount Bromo terrain and get close to the volcano itself.			You’ll need to take a bemo to Probolinggo bus station (Banyuangga).
7	🚌Bromo to Probolinggo bus station 🚄Probolinggo to Banyuwangi train (Book >) ⛴️Banyuwangi (Ketapang) to Gilimanuk ferry (Book >) 🚕Gilimanuk to Pemuteran taxi	Dep: 08:30 Dep: 11:04 Dep: 16:00 Dep: 17:00	Arr: 10:30 Arr: 15:20 Arr: 16:45 Arr: 17:30	🏨Amertha Bali Villas (Book >)	All hotels >
	Rise early for sunset, then descend the Bromo area and take the train on to the end of Java. At Banyuwangi hop in a taxi to the docks at Ketapang.			This is the coldest you’ll get on this Indonesia itinerary, so pack accordingly – it’s freezing before sunrise!
8	See Bali Barat National Park, which is full of forests, mangroves and rare wild animals. The Tegal Bunder Trail is highly recommended, as is a visit to Menjangan Island if you want to see some amazing marine life.			Save the environment by using a filter water bottle.
9	🚌Pemuteran to Gunung Batur bus (Book >)	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 15:30	🏨Volcano Terrace Bali (Book >)	All hotels >
	After a relaxing morning in your hotel, wait for a passing bemo to take you through northern Bali to the rim of Gunung Batur volcano.			Dress conservatively when visiting temples.
10	🚌Gunung Batur to Ubud bus	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 11:30	🏨The Chedi Club at Tanah Gajah (Book >)	All hotels >
	Another early start for another stunning sunrise, before taking a bemo to the vibrant town of Ubud			The Ubud Art Market is a great place to pick up souvenirs – bargain hard!
11-12	Meet the animals at the Ubud Monkey Forest, walk through the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, visit the Goa Gajah temple complex, Pura Taman Saraswati temple and Puri Saren, take in the air along the Campuhan Ridge Walk.			Bluebird taxis are the recommended way of making short trips. Download the app on Google Play or Apple.
13	🚐Ubud to Padangbai bus ⛴️Padangbai to Lembar ferry 🚐Lembar to Senggigi bus (Book >)	Dep: 07:00 Dep: 08:30 Dep: 11:00	Arr: 08:00 Arr: 10:35 Arr: 12:00	🏨Puri Mas Boutique(Book >)	All hotels >
	This is a day on which to enjoy the journey. From the greenery and bustle of Bali, to crossing the Bali Sea, to driving along the verdant hills of Lombok. Arrive in time for sunset at the beach.			You may want to get a taxi to Denpasar and fly to Lombok, which could be faster but much less enjoyable.
14-15	Snorkel with giant sea turtles, walk beside Mount Rinjani, take a horse and cart to Tanjung Village and enjoy the exquisite beach.			Protect the reef and wildlife by using an eco-friendly sunscreen.
16	🚐Sengiggi to airport transfer (Book >) ✈Lombok to Denpasar flight (Book >)	Dep: 10:00 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 10:30 Arr: Afternoon	🏨Villa Bali Asri Batubelig (Book >)	All hotels >
	Fly back to Bali and relax on the beach when you arrive.			If red flags are flown on the beach do not swim – there are dangerous undercurrents here.
17-18	✈Denpasar to Home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Indonesia itinerary with the Thailand, Malaysia & Borneo or Australia itinerary
	Soak up the sun before returning home.
Budget
1	✈To Yogyakarta (Book >)	Dep: Morning		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨OTU Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	You’ll have most of the day to relax in your hostel and, if you’re feeling refreshed in the afternoon, visit some local Batik makers, the Taman Sari water castle and the opulent Kraton Palace.
3	Arrange a driver for with your hotel, because it’s all about the temples today, starting with Prambanan and ending with incredible Borobudur.			Visitors from most countries can get a visa on arrival or are exempt.
4	🚄Yogyakarta to Surabaya train (Book >)	Dep: 09:56	Arr: 15:27	🏨The Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Spend a couple of hours in Surabaya’s fascinating House of Sampoerna.			Seat 61 has excellent tips for buying Indonesian train tickets.
5	🚄Surabaya to Probolinggo train (Book >) 🚌Probolinggo bus station to Cemoro Lawang bus	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 11:30	Arr: 10:56 Arr: 13:30	🏨Cafe Lava Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Go on a guided hike over the barren Mount Bromo terrain and get close to the volcano itself.			You’ll need to take a bemo to Probolinggo bus station (Banyuangga).
7	🚌Bromo to Probolinggo bus station 🚄Probolinggo to Banyuwangi train (Book >) ⛴️Banyuwangi (Ketapang) to Gilimanuk ferry (Book >) 🚌Gilimanuk to Menjangan bus	Dep: 08:30 Dep: 11:04 Dep: 16:00 Dep: 17:30	Arr: 10:30 Arr: 15:20 Arr: 16:45 Arr: 18:30	🏨Bananaleaf (Book >)	All hostels >
	Rise early for sunset, then descend the Bromo area and take the train on to the end of Java. At Banyuwangi hop in a taxi to the docks at Ketapang. In Gilimanuk wait for a bemo going towards Pemuteran.			This is the coldest you’ll get on this Indonesia itinerary, so pack accordingly – it’s freezing before sunrise!
8	See Bali Barat National Park, which is full of forests, mangroves and rare wild animals. The Tegal Bunder Trail is highly recommended, as is a visit to Menjangan Island if you want to see some amazing marine life.			Save the environment by using a filter water bottle.
9	🚌Menjangan to Gunung Batur bus (Book >)	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 15:30	🏨BlackLava Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Wait for a passing bemo to take you through northern Bali to the rim of Gunung Batur volcano.			Dress conservatively when visiting temples.
10	🚌Gunung Batur to Ubud bus	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 11:30	🏨Arya Wellness Retreat (Book >)	All hostels >
	Another early start for another stunning sunrise, before taking a bemo to the vibrant town of Ubud			The Ubud Art Market is a great place to pick up souvenirs – bargain hard!
11-12	Meet the animals at the Ubud Monkey Forest, walk through the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, visit the Goa Gajah temple complex, Pura Taman Saraswati temple and Puri Saren, take in the air along the Campuhan Ridge Walk.			Bluebird taxis are the recommended way of making short trips. Download the app on Google Play or Apple.
13	🚐Ubud to Padangbai bus (Book >) ⛴️Padangbai to Lembar ferry (Book >) 🚌Lembar to Kuta Lombok bus	Dep: 07:00 Dep: 08:30 Dep: 11:30	Arr: 08:00 Arr: 10:35 Arr: 13:00	🏨Pipes Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	This is a day on which to enjoy the journey. From the greenery and bustle of Bali, to crossing the Bali Sea, to driving along the verdant hills of Lombok.			You’ll need to wait for a bemo in Lembar port and negotiate the price to Kuta Lombok.
14-15	Snorkel with giant sea turtles, walk beside Mount Rinjani, go surfing and enjoy the exquisite nearby beaches.			Protect the reef and wildlife by using an eco-friendly sunscreen.
16	🚐Kuta Lombok to airport transfer (Book >) ✈Lombok to Denpasar flight (Book >)	Dep: 10:00 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 10:30 Arr: Afternoon	🏨Pudak Sari Unizou Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Fly back to Bali and relax on the beach when you arrive.			If red flags are flown on the beach do not swim – there are dangerous undercurrents here.
17-18	✈Denpasar to Home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Indonesia itinerary with the Thailand, Malaysia & Borneo or Australia itinerary
	Soak up the sun before returning home.

🇨🇷 COSTA RICA

Bursting with wildlife, volcanoes and gorgeous beaches, Costa Rica’s size makes it easy to get around and full of incredible sights. As with many itineraries, so as to optimise the journey the Mid-range version borrows some of the better hotels from the Luxury version and makes savings elsewhere to bring the cost down. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Costa Rica itinerary:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	✈To San Jose (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	🏨Barceló San José (Book >)	All hotels >
	Settle in to your hotel and rest after your journey.			Visitors from many countries do not require a visa for entry.
2	The Museo del Oro Precolombino contains many fascinating Pre-Colombian gold exhibits. Stop by the Catedral Metropolitana and admire the ornate interior. You’ll find plenty of things to buy in the Mercado Centrale.			‘Sodas’ are family-run restaurants that serve local food.
3	✈San Jose to Tortuguero flight (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Hotel Manatus Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	Once in Tortuguero National Park enjoy a boat tours along the waterways and then, in the evening, go on a guided tour through the hotel grounds.			You’ll need to pay a fee before entering the park.
4	Visit Tortuguero Village for a taste of Afro-Caribbean culture, take to the water in a kayak. A canopy tour is a must for thrill seekers and a night-time turtle hatching tour is a must for everyone.			Tap water is safe in Costa Rica, but if you’re really worried about stomach problems buy a filter water bottle and top up from taps.
5	⛴️🚐Tortuguero to Arenal transfer (Book >)	Dep: 12:00	Arr: 17:00	🏨Hotel Nayara Spa & Gardens (Book >)	All hotels >
	Use your last few hours in Tortuguero to see anything you may have missed out on days 3 and 4. From your beautiful hotel in La Fortuna you can often see the lava flows from Arenal volcano.			Roads in Costa Rica can be unpaved – be prepared for bumpy rides
6	Go on hikes long or short in Volcano Arenal National Park. When you’ve exhausted yourself visit one of the many thermal spas in the area (I recommend Tabacon Hot Springs)			Do you need a guide for hiking here? Not really – park rangers will close trails if they’re unsafe.
7	🚕⛴️🚕Arenal to Monteverde transfer (Book >)	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 11:30	🏨Hotel Belmar (Book >)	All hotels >
	Spend the afternoon relaxing after the journey from La Fortuna. In the evening go on a guided night walk to meet the areas many nocturnal critters.			It can rain even in dry season here – bring good waterproofs. It can also get cold at night.
8	Experience the tree tops via zipline or canopy walk, visit the cloud forest, ride on a very sedate aerial tramway, or see the wildlife from the ground on a guided walk.			The Certificate of Sustainable Tourism ranks businesses from 1 to 5 based on their commitment to carbon neutrality.
9	🚐Monteverde to Playa Panama bus (Book >)	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 13:30	🏨Hotel Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort (Book >)	All hotels >
	Playa Panama is one of the best beaches in the region and is perfect for swimming.			Many businesses close down for the month of October.
10-12	See sea turtles at Playa Grande, visit nearby national parks, go sea kayaking, diving or snorkelling, have a surfing lesson or white water rafting experience…or just do nothing at all on the beach and extend this Costa Rica itinerary for as long as you can!			Protect the environment and buy an eco-friendly sunscreen.
13-14	🚕Playa Panama to Liberia transfer (Book >) ✈Liberia to San Jose flight (Book >) ✈San Jose to Home (Book >)	Dep: 08:00 Dep: Morning Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 08:45 Morning Arr: Afternoon (next day)	Connect this Costa Rica itinerary with the Nicaragua & Honduras, Ecuador & Galapagos or Cuba itinerary
	Ensure you leave a few hours between the time your flight from Libera lands and your flight home departs.
Mid-range
1	✈To San Jose (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	🏨Hotel Terrazas De Golf (Book >)	All hotels >
	Settle in to your hotel and rest after your journey.			Visitors from many countries do not require a visa for entry.
2	The Museo del Oro Precolombino contains many fascinating Pre-Colombian gold exhibits. Stop by the Catedral Metropolitana and admire the ornate interior. You’ll find plenty of things to buy in the Mercado Centrale.			‘Sodas’ are family-run restaurants that serve local food.
3	✈San Jose to Tortuguero flight (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Hotel Manatus Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	Once in Tortuguero National Park enjoy a boat tours along the waterways and then, in the evening, go on a guided tour through the hotel grounds.			You’ll need to pay a fee before entering the park.
4	Visit Tortuguero Village for a taste of Afro-Caribbean culture, take to the water in a kayak. A canopy tour is a must for thrill seekers and a night-time turtle hatching tour is a must for everyone.			Tap water is safe in Costa Rica, but if you’re really worried about stomach problems buy a filter water bottle and top up from taps.
5	⛴️🚐Tortuguero to Arenal transfer (Book >)	Dep: 12:00	Arr: 17:00	🏨Hotel El Silencio del Campo (Book >)	All hotels >
	Use your last few hours in Tortuguero to see anything you may have missed out on days 3 and 4. From your hotel you can often see the glow of lava from Arenal volcano.			Roads in Costa Rica can be unpaved – be prepared for bumpy rides
6	Go on hikes long or short in Volcano Arenal National Park. When you’ve exhausted yourself visit one of the many thermal spas in the area (I recommend Tabacon Hot Springs)			Do you need a guide for hiking here? Not really – park rangers will close trails if they’re unsafe.
7	🚕⛴️🚕Arenal to Monteverde transfer (Book >)	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 11:30	🏨Casa Batsu (Book >)	All hotels >
	Spend the afternoon relaxing after the journey from La Fortuna. In the evening go on a guided night walk to meet the areas many nocturnal critters.			It can rain even in dry season here – bring good waterproofs. It can also get cold at night.
8	Experience the tree tops via zipline or canopy walk, visit the cloud forest, ride on a very sedate aerial tramway, or see the wildlife from the ground on a guided walk.			The Certificate of Sustainable Tourism ranks businesses from 1 to 5 based on their commitment to carbon neutrality.
9	🚐Monteverde to Playa Tamarindo bus (Book >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 12:30	🏨Tamarindo Bay Boutique (Book >)	All hotels >
	As well as having a beautiful beach, Tamarindo is also a pretty town with excellent restaurants.			Many businesses close down for the month of October.
10-12	See sea turtles at Playa Grande, visit nearby national parks, go sea kayaking, diving or snorkelling, have a surfing lesson or white water rafting experience…or just do nothing at all on the beach and extend this Costa Rica itinerary for as long as you can!			Protect the environment and buy an eco-friendly sunscreen.
13-14	🚕Playa Tamarindo to Liberia transfer (Book >) ✈Liberia to San Jose flight (Book >) ✈San Jose to Home (Book >)	Dep: 07:00 Dep: Morning Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 09:00 Morning Arr: Afternoon (next day)	Connect this Costa Rica itinerary with the Nicaragua & Honduras, Ecuador & Galapagos or Cuba itinerary
	Ensure you leave a few hours between the time your flight from Libera lands and your flight home departs.
Budget
1	✈To San Jose (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	🏨Nativus Art-Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Settle in to your hotel and rest after your journey.			Visitors from many countries do not require a visa for entry.
2	The Museo del Oro Precolombino contains many fascinating Pre-Colombian gold exhibits. Stop by the Catedral Metropolitana and admire the ornate interior. You’ll find plenty of things to buy in the Mercado Centrale.			‘Sodas’ are family-run restaurants that serve great value local food.
3	🚌San Jose to Cariari bus 🚌Cariari to La Pavona bus ⛴️La Pavona to Tortuguero ferry	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 15:00 Dep: 16:30	Arr: 12:00 Arr: 16:15 Arr: 17:45	🏨Aracari Garden Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	This bus schedule assumes that you’ll miss the 11:30 Cariara to La Pavona departure (although that bus should wait), but if not then boats to Tortuguero will be waiting at earlier times. Once in Tortuguero National Park go on a guided night tour to see the wildlife.			Tap water is safe in Costa Rica, but if you’re really worried about stomach problems buy a filter water bottle and top up from taps.
4	Visit Tortuguero Village for a taste of Afro-Caribbean culture, take to the water in a kayak. A canopy tour is a must for thrill seekers and a night-time turtle hatching tour is a must for everyone.			You’ll need to pay a fee before entering the park.
5	⛴️🚐Tortuguero to La Fortuna transfer (Book >)	Dep: 12:00	Arr: 17:00	🏨Howler Monkey Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Use your last few hours in Tortuguero to see anything you may have missed out on days 3 and 4. At night in La Fortuna you can often see the lava glow from Arenal volcano.			Roads in Costa Rica can be unpaved – be prepared for bumpy rides (especially between
6	Go on hikes long or short in Volcano Arenal National Park. Exhausted? Treat yourself to one of the many thermal spas in the area (I recommend Tabacon Hot Springs)			Do you need a guide for hiking here? Not really – park rangers will close trails if they’re unsafe.
7	🚌La Fortuna to Tilarán bus 🚌Tilarán to Santa Elena bus (Info >)	Dep: 07:30 Dep: 12:30	Arr: 11:00 Arr: 15:00	🏨Camino Verde B&B (Book >)	All hostels >
	Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing after the journey from La Fortuna. In the evening go on a guided night walk to meet the areas many nocturnal critters.			For several dollars more you can shave 5 hrs off your journey with a shuttle-boat-shuttle combination.
8	Experience the tree tops via zipline or canopy walk, visit the cloud forest, ride on a very sedate aerial tramway, or see the wildlife from the ground on a guided walk.			It can rain even in dry season here – bring good waterproofs. It can also get cold at night.
9	🚌Monteverde to Puntarenas bus (Info >) ⛴️Puntarenas to Paquera ferry (Info >) 🚌Paquera to Montezuma bus (Info >)	Dep: 06:00 Dep: 11:00 Dep: 14:00	Arr: 09:30 Arr: 12:10 Arr: 16:00	🏨Proyecto Montezuma Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Situated right on the beach and with plenty of hammocks, the hostel is the perfect place to chill out after that journey.			It’s cheaper to bring snorkel equipment from home than to join a tour.
10-12	Visit the nearby waterfall, go sea kayaking, diving or snorkelling, have a surfing lesson…or just do nothing at all on the beach and extend this Costa Rica itinerary for as long as you can!			Protect the environment and buy an eco-friendly sunscreen.
13	🚌Montezuma to Paquera bus (Info >) ⛴️Paquera to Puntarenas ferry (Info >) 🚌Puntarenas to San Jose bus (Info >)	Dep: 12:00 Dep: 14:00 Dep: 16:00	Arr: 14:00 Arr: 15:15 Arr: 17:30	🏨Nativus Art-Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Make the most of your last morning on the beach before returning to the capital.			Many businesses close down for the month of October.
14-15	✈San Jose to Home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon (next day)	Connect this Costa Rica itinerary with the Nicaragua & Honduras, Ecuador & Galapagos or Cuba itinerary
	An exit tax is applied to many airline tickets (check the list here).

🇸🇪 SWEDEN

From the vast, open landscapes of Lapland, to the sunny beaches of Gotland, this Sweden itinerary offers many amazing sights for visitors. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Sweden itinerary:

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Luxury
1	✈To Luleå (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Treehotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take a taxi for the 1 hr 15 mins drive to your hotel from the airport.			The fastest flight times involve leaving in the afternoon and arriving into Luleå in the evening.
2	Go hiking in Lapland, get some white water rafting thrills, glide along calm waters in a canoe, go on a moose safari and, at the end of the day, relax in the tree sauna. You may want to add on some extra days…			Book activities well in advance.
3	🚄Boden to Orebro train (Book >)	Dep: 17:49		🏨Train
	You’ll have most of today to enjoy more of this beautiful part of Sweden. Arrange a transfer to the train station (which should take about 35 mins) then relax in a comfy couchette for the overnight journey to Orebro.			Buying an Interrail pass (Eurail pass if you don’t live in Europe) can save you money.
4	🚄Boden to Orebro train		Arr: 07:31	🏨Clarion Hotel Örebro (Book >)	All hotels >
	A day on which to soak in the sights of ancient Örebro, the most impressive which is the immense Örebro castle. The city park is one of the most beautiful in Sweden and the Wadköping open-air museum is also well worth a visit.			Tap water is good and tasty in Sweden – remember to bring a refillable bottle.
5	🚄Örebro to Gothenburg train (Book >)	Dep: 09:12	Arr: 12:10	🏨Upper House (Book >)	All hotels >
	Head up Gothenburg’s 17th century Skansen Kronan, then take a look at the picturesque wooden houses in nearby Haga.			Buy a travel card for Gothenburg, which will save you hassle and money – it also includes ferry journeys.
6	Slottsskogen is a free-to-enter park and mini-zoo in the city centre. If you’re in need of some culture, the Gothenburg Museum of Art comes highly recommended. Like fish? Then a visit to the Fish Market Feskekörka is a must, or go to the trendy shopping district of Magasinsgatan instead. The well-preserved Älvsborg Fortress is a fun excursion.			Got some spare time? The four-day cycle ride from Helsingborg to Båstad comes highly recommended.
7	🚄Gothenburg to Mariestad train (Book >) ⛴️Mariestad to Vassbacken cruise (Book >)	Dep: 08:25 Dep: 11:30	Arr: 11:08 Arr: 22:15	🏨M/S Wilhelm Tham	All hotels >
	Transfer to Mariestad where you’ll join the M/S Wilhelm Tham and cruise along the Göta Canal over Lake Vänern to the locks at Sjötorp and Hajstorp.			Apart from the two honeymoon suites, most cabins on the historic M/S Wilhelm Tham have bunk beds.
8	⛴️Vassbacken to Ljung cruise	Dep: 11:17 Dep: 12:46	Arr: 12:07 Arr: 13:25	🏨M/S Wilhelm Tham	All hotels >
	Continuing along the Göta Canal you’ll reach the highest point at the obelisk, pass through the Tåtorp locks and along beautiful Lake Viken. Next comes Forsvik Lock and the historic Forsviks Bruk village. Lake Vättern is Sweden’s second largest in Sweden, beyond which is the lock staircase at Borenshul, beautiful Borensburg village and the berth at Ljung.			You can also hire your own boat to cruise along the Göta Canal.
9	⛴️Borensberg to Norsholm cruise (Book >) 🚄Norsholm to Stockholm (Book >)	Dep: 11:17 Dep: 12:46	Arr: 12:07 Arr: 13:25	🏨Grand Hôtel Stockholm (Book >)	All hotels >
	Into the longest lock staircase on the canal at Berg, then Lake Roxen and ending at Norsholm Lock. In Stockholm take in the magnificent sight of an almost fully intact 17th century war ship at the Vasa Museum. Nearby is the equally…impressive ABBA Museum.			The Downtown Camper hotel has great views from its rooftop bar.
9-10	Visit the royal family’s palace, head out to the open-air museum of Skansen, wander around the streets of Gamla Stan, look at the amazing photography at Fotografiska Museet, learn about the Nobel Price at the Nobelmuseet.			Stockholm is quickly becoming a cash-free city and so you may not want to bring too much.
11	Stockholm to Home (✈Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Evening	Connect this Sweden itinerary with the Germany or Estonia itinerary
	Want to extend your Sweden Itinerary? Take a look at the Gotland journey at the end of the Mid-range itinerary.
Mid-range
1	✈To Kiruna (Book >) 🚄Kiruna to Abisko Östra train (Book >)	Dep: Morning Dep: 14:49	Arr: Afternoon Arr: 15:54	🏨Hotel Abisko Mountain Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	Arriving late Oct to mid-March? You’ll get here after sunset and in time to hopefully see the Northern Lights.			To make this journey in one day you’ll need to catch a very early flight.
2	There are a number of excellent hiking trails in Abisko National Park, you can also visit the Sámi village of Rávttas. If you’re here outside of warmer months then skiing, dog sledding, Arctic reindeer sledding and chasing the Northern Lights are all popular things to do.			If you’re really into hiking then Abisko is the start of the famous 400km King’s Trail, or Kungsleden.
3	🚄Abisko Östra – Gävle C train (Book >)	Dep: 16:44		🏨Train
	You’ll have most of today to enjoy more of this beautiful part of Sweden. Relax in a comfy couchette for the overnight journey to Gävle C.			Buying an Interrail pass (Eurail pass if you don’t live in Europe) can save you money.
4	🚄Abisko Östra to Gävle C train 🚄Gävle C to Orebro train (Book >)	Dep: 08:24	Arr: 07:35 Arr: 10:55	🏨Clarion Hotel Örebro (Book >)	All hotels >
	A day on which to soak in the sights of ancient Örebro, the most impressive which is the immense Örebro castle. The city park is one of the most beautiful in Sweden and the Wadköping open-air museum is also well worth a visit.			Tap water is good and tasty in Sweden – remember to bring a refillable bottle.
5	🚄Örebro to Motala train (Book >) 🚄Motala to Hallsberg train 🚄Hallsberg to Gothenburg train (Book >)	Dep: 08:11 Dep: 09:12 Dep: 17:43	Arr: 09:26 Arr: 17:06 Arr: 20:05	🏨Hotel Pigalle (Book >)	All hotels >
	Divert your journey to Gothenburg with a stop at Motala and a boat trip along the Göta Canal, departing at 10:30 and returning at 15:30 (May to Sep only).			Buy a travel card for Gothenburg, which will save you hassle and money – it also includes ferry journeys.
6	Head up Gothenburg’s 17th century Skansen Kronan, then take a look at the picturesque wooden houses in nearby Haga. Like fish? Then a visit to the Fish Market Feskekörka is a must, or go to the trendy shopping district of Magasinsgatan instead. The well-preserved Älvsborg Fortress is a fun excursion.			Got some spare time? The four-day cycle ride from Helsingborg to Båstad comes highly recommended.
7	🚄Gothenburg to Stockholm train (Book >)	Dep: 16:19	Arr: 19:43	🏨Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Gothenburg’s Slottsskogen is a free-to-enter park and mini-zoo in the city centre. If you’re in need of some culture, the Gothenburg Museum of Art comes highly recommended.			Stockholm’s Downtown Camper hotel has great views from its rooftop bar.
8-9	Take in the magnificent sight of an almost fully intact 17th century war ship at the Vasa Museum. Nearby is the equally…impressive ABBA Museum. Visit the royal family’s palace, head out to the open-air museum of Skansen, wander around the streets of Gamla Stan, look at the amazing photography at Fotografiska Museet, learn about the Nobel Price at the Nobelmuseet.			Stockholm is quickly becoming a cash-free city and so you may not want to bring too much.
10	🚌Stockholm to Nynäshamn bus ⛴️Nynäshamn to Visby ferry (Book >)	Dep: 11:30 Dep: 13:15	Arr: 12:30 Arr: 16:30	🏨Clarion Hotel Visby (Book >)	All hotels >
	Gaze out to sea as you glide over the Baltic Sea to the island of Gotland			The ferry journey is usually smooth, but you may wish to take motion sickness tablets just in case.
11-12	Over the next couple of days be sure to take in Visby’s Burmeister House, walk along the city wall and the views from Klinten. Visby is full of church ruins – see if you can get to all 15 within the city walls. The Gotlands Museum makes for a fascinating visit. Hire a bicycle and explore the coast in either direction from Visby.			Stockholm is quickly becoming a cash-free city and so you may not want to bring too much.
13	Visby to Home (✈Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Sweden itinerary with the Germany or Estonia itinerary
	If you’re doing this Sweden itinerary in the summer take Flygbussarna coach to the airport, at other times of year you can take bus route 61 or a short taxi ride.
Budget
1	✈To Kiruna (Book >) 🚄Kiruna to Abisko Östra train (Book >)	Dep: Morning Dep: 14:49	Arr: Afternoon Arr: 15:59	🏨Abisko Turiststation (Book >)	All hotels >
	Arriving late Oct to mid-March? You’ll get here after sunset and in time to hopefully see the Northern Lights.			To make this journey in one day you’ll need to catch a very early flight.
2	There are a number of excellent hiking trails in Abisko National Park, you can also visit a Sámi camp, take the chair lift to Nuolja and go in search of the Northern Lights,			If you’re really into hiking then Abisko is the start of the famous 400km King’s Trail, or Kungsleden.
3	🚄Abisko Östra – Gävle C train (Book >)	Dep: 16:38		🏨Train
	You’ll have most of today to enjoy more of this beautiful part of Sweden. Settle into your seat for the overnight journey to Gävle C.			Buying an Interrail pass (Eurail pass if you don’t live in Europe) can save you money.
4	🚄Abisko Östra to Gävle C train 🚄Gävle C to Orebro train (Book >) 🚄Örebro to Gothenburg train (Book >)	Dep: 08:24 Dep: 17:19	Arr: 07:35 Arr: 10:55 Arr: 19:55	🏨Linnéplatsens Hotel & Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	A day in which to soak in the sights of ancient Örebro, the most impressive which is the immense Örebro castle. The city park is one of the most beautiful in Sweden and the Wadköping open-air museum is also well worth a visit.			Örebro station has a left luggage facility.
5-6	Head up Gothenburg’s 17th century Skansen Kronan, then take a look at the picturesque wooden houses in nearby Haga. Like fish? Then a visit to the Fish Market Feskekörka is a must, or go to the trendy shopping district of Magasinsgatan instead. The well-preserved Älvsborg Fortress is a fun excursion.			Buy a travel card for Gothenburg, which will save you hassle and money – it also includes ferry journeys.
7	🚄Gothenburg to Hallsberg train 🚄Hallsberg to Motala train (Book >) 🚄Motala to Linköping train 🚄Linköping to Stockholm train (Book >)	Dep: 06:04 Dep: 08:46 Dep: 16:05 Dep: 17:00	Arr: 08:25 Arr: 09:26 Arr: 16:44 Arr: 18:41	🏨Red Boat Mälaren (Book >)	All hostels >
	Divert your journey to Stockholm with a stop at Motala and a boat trip along the Göta Canal, departing at 10:30 and returning at 15:30 (May to Sep only).			Stockholm’s Downtown Camper hotel has great views from its rooftop bar.
8-9	Take in the magnificent sight of an almost fully intact 17th century war ship at the Vasa Museum. Nearby is the equally…impressive ABBA Museum. Visit the royal family’s palace, head out to the open-air museum of Skansen, wander around the streets of Gamla Stan, look at the amazing photography at Fotografiska Museet, learn about the Nobel Price at the Nobelmuseet.			Stockholm is quickly becoming a cash-free city and so you may not want to bring too much.
10	🚌Stockholm to Nynäshamn bus ⛴️Nynäshamn to Visby ferry (Book >)	Dep: 11:30 Dep: 13:15	Arr: 12:30 Arr: 16:30	🏨Visby home rental (Book >)	All hotels >
	Gaze out to sea as you glide over the Baltic Sea to the island of Gotland			The ferry journey is usually smooth, but you may wish to take motion sickness tablets just in case.
11-12	Over the next couple of days be sure to take in Visby’s Burmeister House, walk along the city wall and the views from Klinten. Visby is full of church ruins – see if you can get to all 15 within the city walls. The Gotlands Museum makes for a fascinating visit. Hire a bicycle and explore the coast in either direction from Visby.			Stockholm is quickly becoming a cash-free city and so you may not want to bring too much.
13	Visby to Home (✈Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Sweden itinerary with the Germany or Estonia itinerary
	If you’re doing this Sweden itinerary in the summer take Flygbussarna coach to the airport, at other times of year you can take bus route 61 or a short taxi ride.