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Malaysia , Thailand , The Philippines , Vietnam

3 month southeast asia itinerary & backpacking route.

Table of Contents

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Looking for the perfect Southeast Asia itinerary for 3 months? You found it! There are so many fascinating destinations and beautiful sights to see in this region. If you have no idea where to start or how to get around, fret not as I’m sharing my tried and tested Southeast Asia backpacking route.

Read next: 101 Southeast Asia travel tips

Where to go during 3 months in Southeast Asia

The countries I’ll be talking about in this blog are Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines. If you’ve yet to decide which countries to visit, you might be best off reading my guide to the best things to do in Southeast Asia ordered by country. If you know where you want to go, you’re in the right place. In this blog post, I’ll share 3 travel itineraries for spending 3 months in Southeast Asia. The first is for the big four: Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam . This Asia backpacking route can be explored entirely by land with no flights needed. The second two Southeast Asia itineraries include Myanmar, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines although, a word to the wise, I don’t recommend trying to see all eight countries in three months. It would be insanely busy!

3 MONTHS IN SOUTHEAST ASIA ESSENTIALS Copy of Lonely Planet Southeast Asia on a shoestring Book buses and trains: 12GoAsia Book flights on Skyscanner Accommodation: Browse Hostels (Hostelworld) // Browse hotels (Booking.com) Tours: GetYourGuide For foodies: A Chef’s Tour Stay connected: an Airalo e-SIM for 18 Asian countries Travel insurance:  True Traveller  (European travellers) /  Hey Mundo  (other nationalities) /  Safety Wing  (digital nomads) Essential reading: Things to do Southeast Asia / Vietnam travel guide / Backpacking the Philippines / Malaysia itinerary / Bali itinerary

Before we get stuck into my Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary, I want to share…

The perfect Southeast Asia backpacking route

I believe I’ve hacked the perfect route around Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. It was trial and error because I definitely did it ‘wrong’ during my first trip. My first attempt at a Southeast Asia backpacking route was from northern to southern Laos to visit Four Thousand Islands on the border of Cambodia only to travel back up (which took almost two days!) for my flight to Vietnam. Then I ended up in Cambodia two months later. In retrospect, there’s a more sensible route…

Perfect Southeast Asia backpack route:

• After seeing Thailand, take the slow boat from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang, Laos
• Travel down Laos by bus to the Four Thousand Islands
• Cross the border to Cambodia
• After seeing Cambodia, cross the border to Vietnam (by boat or bus) and arrive in Saigon (Ho Chi Minh)
• Travel up Vietnam and finish in Hanoi.

I believe this is the perfect Southeast Asia backpacking route. You won’t pay for any flights (which is great for Planet Earth) and you’ll take the more adventurous, scenic route. This 3 month Southeast Asia backpacking route doesn’t include Myanmar, Malaysia, the Philippines or Indonesia so keep reading as I’ll include an itinerary for these later.

How to get around Southeast Asia

One of the best things about backpacking Southeast Asia is how easy and affordable it is to get about. Here are the main options: Flights – there are numerous budget airlines in Asia including Nok Air, Lion Air, Scoot and Air Asia. Book them on AirAsia or Skyscanner . Buses – this is a popular way to travel in Asia and usually my preferred option. Many of the Southeast Asia backpacker buses are comfortable with reclining seats, aircon, and snacks included with the ticket. Use 12GoAsia to book and compare prices. Trains – you can travel by train in various parts of Southeast Asia. These are a scenic way to travel and usually very comfortable. Trains can also be booked on 12GoAsia . Boat – don’t overlook boat as a way to get around. The slow boat from Northern Thailand to Laos and the bus and boat along the Mekong between Cambodia and Vietnam are adventures in their own right.

My top tip for backpacking Southeast Asia – travel early in the morning for short journeys and throughout the night for longer ones. Yes, it feels a bit rough but it saves you so much valuable time.

How long to spend in Southeast Asia

How long is a piece of string? I spent almost a year in Southeast Asia from 2015-16 and another year from 2018-19. But I’m aware most people probably don’t have that much time on their hands, especially if they don’t work online. I would suggest spending 3 months in Southeast Asia at a minimum. The following 3 month Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary will help you see the best of the region. Note – these itineraries are busy and fast-paced to incorporate as much as possible. Don’t be afraid to stay longer in places you love and miss a few stops!

Want to stay connected while travelling? Download an Airalo e-SIM and connect as soon as you land in Asia. Browse packages for individual countries or get the Asialink card for 18 countries.

#1 – Southeast Asia 3 month itinerary (Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam)

This Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary is a classic. This popular section of what’s often called the ‘Banana Pancake trail’ is the perfect place for beginner travellers, solo travellers and those who’ve never backpacked before. It’s safe, affordable and you’ll meet plenty of other travellers. There are beaches, adrenaline adventures and bucket list experiences aplenty…

Overview: 1 month Thailand , 2 weeks Laos, 2 weeks Cambodia and 1 month Vietnam .

Weeks 1-2: Southern Thailand

After flying into Bangkok, make your way down to the islands by night bus or flight. There are two main clusters of Thai islands : – Koh Tao (famous for diving), Koh Samui and Koh Phanang (famous for the Full Moon Party) off the east coast – Phi Phi, Koh Lanta and Koh Yao Yai further south off Krabi on the west coast. If you have 2 weeks in Thailand, include these stops in your 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary…

Days 1-2: Bangkok. A two-day Bangkok itinerary is enough time to see highlights including the Grand Palace , Wat Pho , Wat Arun and Chinatown. Catch a flight to… Days 3-4: Koh Samui . Visit the Big Buddha statue at Wat Phra Yai Temple and explore beaches and waterfalls – you can also join this tour to explore. Swap this stop for Koh Phangan if it times with a Full Moon Party. Read about the differences between Koh Samui and Koh Phangan . Days 5-7: Koh Tao. Try diving and spend longer if you wish to complete your Open Water diving qualification. Catch a ferry to Surat Thani and a bus to… Days 8-10: Krabi. Explore Railay Beach and its caves, hike to Wat Tham Sua temple, and visit Krabi Hot Springs. Days 11-12: Koh Lanta . My favourite Thai island has loads to do from boat trips, kayaking, volunteering at Lanta Animal Welfare and visiting caves, beaches and national parks. Days 13-14: Koh Phi Phi or, if you’re not a fan of parties, visit quieter Koh Yao Yai .

Read next: the ultimate guide to solo female travel in Thailand

Weeks 3-4: Bangkok and Northern Thailand

After two weeks of island paradise, get your culture fix by travelling back to Bangkok and making your way towards Northern Thailand. The mountains, countryside and temples are a total contract to the south. Here’s my itinerary for 2 weeks in Northern Thailand : Days 15-16: Return to Bangkok. Take a trip to Ayutthaya , Thailand’s ancient temple site.

Days 17:18 : Take a bus or train to Sukhothai , a UNESCO site populated from 1238 until 1438. Days 19-21: Chiang Mai. This small city in Northern Thailand is one of my favourites in Asia. Take a bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai or catch a flight. Check out my Chiang Mai itinerary . Days 22-24: Pai. This hippie town in the mountains is a lovely spot for a couple of days exploring hot springs and Pai Canyon.

Days 25-26: Head back to Chiang Mai and take a trip to Doi Inthanon National Park with GetYourGuide . Alternatively, take longer overnight hikes from Chiang Mai . Days 27-29: Chiang Rai. Not only is this town a fantastic place for temple-hopping but it’s an essential stop if you’re heading to Laos. Tour companies will take you to Huay Xai to begin the boat ride. Check out my 2 day Chiang Rai itinerary . Day 30: Slow boat to Laos. Follow my Southeast Asia backpacking route by taking a 2-day slow boat from Thailand to Laos and soaking up some amazing scenery along the way.

Weeks 5-6: Laos

The small, landlocked country of Laos may be lesser-visited but it’s well worth including in your 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary. Here’s how to spend 2 weeks…

Days 33-36: Luang Prabang. The slow boat from Thailand arrives in Luang Prabang. Things to do in Luang Prabang include temple-hopping, shopping and eating at the night market, watching sunset from Mount Phusi and swimming in Kuang Si Waterfall. Days 37-38: Vang Vieng: Spend a couple of days in eco-adventure paradise, kayaking, canoeing, abseiling and trekking.

The most popular tours in Vang Vieng:

• 🛶 Experience adventure in Vang Vieng by kayaking on the Nam Song River and tubing inside Tham Nam None Cave with this tour
• 🏞️ Enjoy an easy half-day zip lining experience surrounded by green beautiful forests and mountains
• ⛰️ Discover some of the most beautiful caves and trails available in Vang Vieng with this full day trekking tour

Days 39-40: Vientiane : The capital of Laos has a few cool attractions including Pha That Luang temple and Buddha Park . It’s also a good place to try tasty Vientiane food . Days 40-41: Kong Lor Caves. These huge limestone caves in central Laos can be explored by boat. Days 42-44: Pakse . Travel from Kong Lor to Pakse. Visit Wat Luang Temple and learn about the region’s culture at Champasak Historical Heritage Museum. Days 45-47: Don Det, Four Thousand Islands. Three months in Southeast Asia can be busy so take some time to relax. The Four Thousand Islands are scattered in the Mekong connecting Laos and Cambodia. Bag yourself a $5 beach hut on Don Det and book a kayaking tour to spot river dolphins.

When you’re done, continue my Southeast Asia backpacking route by booking your transportation from Don Det to Siem Reap, Cambodia .

Weeks 7-8: Cambodia

Days 48-51: Siem Reap . It wouldn’t be a trip to Cambodia without marvelling at Angkor Wat , a Hindu temple site dating back to the 12th century. Stay in Siem Reap town and hire a tuk-tuk driver who will bring you to the temples for sunrise.

Days 53-53: Kep . Once an elite French seaside town, Kep is now a popular stop for travellers. Hike in Kep National Park, soak up the sunset and sample fresh seafood. Days 54-55: Kampot. This is favourite stop for foodie travellers who come from far and wide to sample famous Kampot crab seasoned with Kampot pepper. Days 56-57: Koh Rong . Travel from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong island known for its diving, snorkelling and lively beach bars. Days 58-59: Koh Rong Samloem . Take a trip to the smaller and more peaceful Koh Rong Samloem. There are fewer busy beach bars and more empty beaches.

Days 60-62: Phnom Penh. Explore Cambodia’s capital and visit tragic but important locations, the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Museum of Genocide . Book activities on GetYourGuide . Afterwards, catch a 3-day boat and bus combo ticket from Phnom Penh to Saigon .

Weeks 9-12: Vietnam

I adore Vietnam! It’s well placed on the Southeast Asia backing route and home to cities, beaches, mountains and more. Spend four weeks here to finish up your Southeast Asia itinerary.

Read next: The ultimate Vietnam itinerary

Days 65-68: Saigon . Explore the War Remnants Museum, Chu Chi Tunnels, Walking Street and Ben Thanh Market. Follow my Saigon itinerary .

Days 69-70: Mui Ne . Try your hand at sandboarding. Days 71-72: Da Lat . This cool, mountainous part of Vietnam is known for coffee, canyoning and countryside tours . Day 73-74: Nha Trang . I don’t love Nha Trang but you’ll need to stop over to break up the journey up the coast. Take a trip to the nearby hot spas. Days 75-78: Hoi An . This quaint city is a must for any Southeast Asia backpack itinerary. Include the Ancient Town and My Son Temples in your Hoi An itinerary . Day 79: the Hai Van Pass . Cruise the coastline by scooter or Jeep to soak up some of Vietnam’s best scenery. Days 80-81: Hue . Spend 2 days in Hue to explore Vietnam’s ancient capital and explore the temples.

Read next: guide to travelling solo in Vietnam as a woman

Days 82-83: Phong Nha National Park . The largest caves in the worlds are found in Phong Nha . Take day trips from the town at the centre of the national park. Board a night bus to… Days 84-85: Ninh Binh.  Spend 2 days in Ninh Binh . Explore mountains and countryside temples. Days 86-87: Hanoi. Vietnam’s atmospheric capital is one of my favourite places. Spend 3 days in Hanoi to catch the highlights. Days 88-90: Sapa.  A few days hiking in Sapa is a must for nature lovers. Days 91-93: Ha Long Bay.  Spend a couple of nights cruising between islands in Ha Long Bay. Book a 2-day Hanoi cruise to finish your 3 month trip!

3 month Southeast Asia itinerary – more than the big 4!

Want to do more than Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia? I don’t blame you. The next two Southeast Asia itineraries include some of my other favourite countries. Add to your Southeast Asia backpacking route:

Myanmar, Malaysia, Singapore , Indonesia and the Philippines

#2 – Southeast Asia itinerary (inc Myanmar and Malaysia)

This 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary is similar to the one above but it spends a little less time in Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos to allow for a month exploring Myanmar and Malaysia .

Overview: 2 weeks in Malaysia, 3 weeks in Thailand, 2 weeks in Myanmar, 10 days in Laos, 10 days in Cambodia, 2 weeks in Vietnam

Weeks 1-2: Malaysia

Malaysia is truly one of my favourite countries which is why I recommend visiting during your 3 months in Southeast Asia. In my 2 week Malaysia itinerary , I share three different itineraries suited to city, beach and nature lovers. Here’s a quick overview:

Days 1-2: Kuala Lumpur. Explore highlights in the Malaysian capital like the Petronas Towers, Chinatown, the Batu Caves and Little India. Use my 2 day KL itinerary to plan your trip. Days 3-5: Taman Negara . This ancient rainforest and national park in central Malaysia makes a great escape from the big city. You can stay overnight (I spent 3 days trekking and spotting wildlife on guided nature walks) or if you’re short on time, take a day tour from KL . Days 6-8: Cameron Highlands. Drink tea in the cool, lofty climate of this ex-British hill station. Days 9-11: Penang. Stay in Georgetown and explore the vibrant capital of Penang Island. Once you’re done with street art , street food , cool cafes and culture, you can take a day trip to Kek Lok Si Temple .

Days 12-14: Langkawi . Spend a few days snorkelling, beach-basking, taking boat trips and other activities in Langkawi , Malaysia’s most beautiful island.

How to get from Malaysia to Thailand: Of course you can fly from KL or Penang airports but this Southeast Asia backpacking route is all about overlanding! You can travel by bus and boat from Langkawi to the Thai islands without catching a flight. The Langkawi ferry arrives into Koh Lipe from where you can catch another ferry to Koh Lanta.

Week 3-6: Thailand

Spend 2-3 weeks in Southern Thailand depending how much you like beaches and nightlife. An itinerary could look like this (for descriptions about these places, see my #1 itinerary above). Days 16-19: Koh Lanta . Relax in island paradise. Days 20-21: Koh Phi Phi . Party and snorkel. Days 22-23: Krabi . Visit beaches and rock climb. Days 24-26: Koh Tao . Try your hand at diving or check out Koh Samui or Phangan instead. Days 27-30: Bangkok . Explore the Grand Palace and eat street food. Days 31-34: Chiang Mai . Visit temples and night markets. Head from Chiang Mai to Myanmar by bus or flight.

Week 6-7: Myanmar

Note – in 2022, Myanmar is not safe for travel due to the political situation. I will update this post if this changes. One of the most captivating and culturally rich countries I’ve been to is Myanmar, a must for your 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary. Tourism is still fresh compared to Thailand and it’s the perfect place to get off-the-beaten-track and see how locals live. Here’s how to spend 2 weeks… Days 35-36: Yangon. Explore the vibrant and busy city of Yangon. Visit 99-metre Shwedagon Pagoda, eat barbecued seafood on 19th Street, walk around Kandawgyi Lake and take a trip to pilgrimage site, the Golden Rock. Days 37-40: Bagan. With 1,000 years of history and hundreds of ancient temples to explore, there’s nowhere quite like Old Bagan. Stay within the temple site and explore the countryside by e-bike or day tour , finding shrines and pagodas as you go.

Days 41-43: Kalaw to Inle Lake trek. Arrive by bus into Kalaw and locate Sam’s Family restaurant and trekking company. They’ll take you on a multi-day adventure through the countryside destined for Inle Lake. Days 44-45: Inle Lake. Spend a few days exploring Inle Lake by boat, watching local fishermen row with their feet and visiting floating markets. Finish your day with a sunset Inle Lake tour . Days 46-48: Mandalay. Visit Kuthodaw Pagoda, travel to U Bein Bridge and watch sunset from the top of Mandalay Hill.

From Myanmar, fly back to Northern Thailand. When you arrive back in Chiang Mai, you can continue your Southeast Asia backpacking trip by taking a bus to Chiang Rai and boarding the slow boat to Laos. Alternatively, fly into Luang Prabang.

Week 8-9: Laos

Spend 2 weeks exploring the highlights of Laos. For descriptions about these stops, see my #1 itinerary above. Days 50-52: Luang Prabang. Visit temples and swim in Kuang Si Falls. Days 53-54: Vang Vieng. Try adrenaline activities and explore the countryside. Days 55-56: Vientiane . Visit the Laos capital. Days 57-58: Kong Lor . Cruise through this enormous cave complex by boat. Days 59-60: Pakse. Stop overnight. Days 61-63: Don Det, Four Thousand Islands. Relax and kayak to see river dolphins.

Week 9-10: Cambodia

Spend 2 weeks exploring the highlights of Laos. For descriptions about these stops, see my #1 Southeast Asia itinerary above. Days 65-67: Siem Reap . Explore Angkor Wat. Days 68-69: Kep . Relax and hike. Days 70-71: Kampot . Eat Kambot crab. Days 72-73: Koh Rong . Party and snorkel. Days 74-75: Koh Rong Samloem . Chill in paradise. Days 76-78: Phnom Penh. Catch a boat and bus combo ticket towards Saigon or for a quicker journey, a bus from Phnom Penh to Saigon.

Weeks 10-12: Vietnam

With two weeks in Vietnam, following this itinerary. Check out my 2 week Vietnam itinerary for more details. Days 80-81: Saigon. Explore War history and eat street food. Days 82-85: Hoi An. Soak up Hoi An Ancient Town and take day trips. Catch a night train from Da Nang to Hanoi. Days 86-87: Hanoi. Shop and eat in Hanoi Old Quater. Days 88-90: Ha Long Bay. Take a 1 or 2-night boat cruise. Days 91-93: Sapa. Hike in the mountains to finish this Asia itinerary.

#3 – Southeast Asia itinerary (inc Indonesia and the Philippines) 

For this final Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary, I’ll include two of my favourite countries: Indonesia and the Philippines. If you’re keen for beaches, diving and island-hopping, this is the Asia itinerary for you!

Overview: 2 weeks in Thailand, 1 week in Laos, 1 week in Cambodia, 2 weeks in Vietnam, 3 weeks in Indonesia, 3 weeks in the Philippines

Weeks 1-2: Thailand

Spend a week in the Southern Islands and a week in the North. For descriptions about these places, see my #1 Southeast Asia itinerary for 3 months (above). Days 1-2: Bangkok . Visit temples, museums, eat and party. Days 3-4: Krabi . Hike and rock climb. Days 5-7: Koh Lanta . Relax, snorkel and hike. Days 8-10: Koh Phi Phi . Enjoy the nightlife. Catch a ferry to Phuket and flight to… Days 11-13: Chiang Mai . Take cooking courses and visit temples. Days 13-14: Chiang Rai. Board the slow boat to Laos from Huay Xai.

Week 3: Laos

For a flying trip to Laos, stick to three locations. For descriptions about these places, see my #1 itinerary above. Days 16-17: Luang Prabang . Eat, temple-hop and chase waterfalls. Days 18-19: Vang Vieng. Take eco tours. Days 20-23: Don Det, Four Thousand Islands . Relax, unwind and spot dolphins.

Week 4: Cambodia

For a flying trip to Cambodia, stick to three locations. For descriptions about these places, see my #1 itinerary above. Days 25-26: Siem Reap . Marvel at Angkor Wat. Days 27-28: Kampot. Beaches and seafood. Days 29-30: Phnom Penh. Museums and history.

Weeks 5-6: Vietnam

Spend a glorious two weeks catching the highlights of Vietnam. Follow my 2 week Vietnam itinerary mentioned above. Days 33-34: Saigon. History and street food. Days 35-37: Hoi An. Wander lantern-lined streets and visit Hoi An cafes . Days 38-40: Hanoi. Explore the vibrant capital. Days 41-43: Ha Long Bay . Take a boat cruise . Days 44-45: Sapa. Hiker’s paradise!

Weeks 7-9: Indonesia

The captivating country of Indonesia is comprised of 17,000 islands, of which Bali, Lombok, the Gili trio and the Nusa islands are the most popular and accessible on the Southeast Asia backpacking route. While there are countless lesser-visited islands to explore, with just 3 weeks in Indonesia , I would suggest exploring both Java and Bali. Follow my Asia backpacking itinerary…

Week 7 (days 46-53): Java . Fly into Yogyakarta (you may need to transfer in Jakarta), the culture capital of Java island. Spend up to four days in Yogyakarta to explore the city’s highlights, sample Javanese food and take a day trip to Borobudur and Prambanan temple sites. Head overland towards Mount Bromo, an active volcano that you can hike for sunrise. Fly from Juanda Airport into Denpasar, Bali. Alternatively, take an overland tour (usually lasting 9 days) from Yogyakarta to Bali visiting Malang and Mount Bromo en route. This arrives in Bali by ferry. Weeks 8-9 (days 54-68) Bali : Spend two weeks in Bali to get the best of the island, from rich Hindu culture, unique Balinese architecture and fresh, veggie-friendly Balinese cuisine . Be sure to get off-the-beaten-track and find the Bali hidden gems especially in North Bali !

2 weeks in Bali

– 3 days in Ubud . Visit temples, rice fields, do yoga and indulge in the Ubud food scene. – 3 days in Canggu . Relax, eat, surf, repeat! – 3 days in Uluwatu . Visit Uluwatu Temple for sunset. – 4 days on Nusa Penida island. Swim with manta rays!

Weeks 9-12: The Philippines

I spent two whole months in the Philippines and can safely say it’s one of the most beautiful countries on earth. If you don’t have that long, no worries – just follow this Southeast Asia itinerary for 3 months. This condensed version whizzes around the Philippines’ highlights in just 3 weeks. There are countless Filipino islands to visit so do your research and pick the ones best suited to you. This 3 week Philippines itinerary includes Coron, Palawan, Cebu and Siargao. Day 69: Manilla. I didn’t love this city so I would recommend moving on fairly quickly to… Days 70-73: Coron . On this picture-perfect island, you can dive a shipwreck and explore beaches aplenty. Day 74: Ferry to El Nido , Palawan .

Days 75-77: Island hop in El Nido . Spend a couple of days taking boat trips, hiking to Taraw Peak and visiting Nacpan Beach. Days 78-79: Port Barton . Take more boat trips in Port Barton and find hidden gems in this less touristic version of El Nido. Days 80-82: Puerto Princesa . Visit the Underground River and watch prisoners perform hip hop dance shows to aid their rehabilitation at Iwahig Jail . Day 83: Fly to Cebu . This busy city isn’t the greatest so I’d suggest boarding a bus to… Days 84-86: Moalboal . Here you can snorkel with turtles and sardine shoals, hike to Osmena Peak and swim in Kawasan Falls. Days 87-90: Siargao. Finish your Southeast Asia itinerary in paradise! Things to do in Siargao include learning to surf and taking boat trips to nearby islands. To spend more time here, consider skipping Cebu and Moalboal.

Essentials for 3 months in Southeast Asia

• A power bank to keep your devices alive
• Copy of Lonely Planet Southeast Asia
• A GoPro if you’re into making videos – I use the HERO8 Black
• Sustainability: stainless steel reusable water bottle to reduce the use of plastic bottles
• Alternatively, a filtering water bottle that allows you to safely drink tap water
• Travel luggage: Osprey Farpoint backpack ( men’s ) ( women’s )
• Microfibre quick-drying towel
• Security: A handy bum bag with secure zip .

Southeast Asia bucket list

Check out my ultimate Asia bucket list including 101 experiences to tick off during your Southeast Asia itinerary for 3 months. For a quick rundown, here are my top 15… – Go temple-hopping in Chiang Mai – Take a Muay Thai boxing class – Celebrate Songkran Festival in Bangkok – Cruise through Ha Long Bay by boat in Vietnam – Watch sunset over Angkor Wat – Trek through misty mountains and earn about minority groups during a Sapa tour in Vietnam – Eat famous Penang street food in Malaysia – Climb the rainbow staircase at the Batu Caves, Kuala Lumpur – Visit the world’s largest Buddhist temple site, Borobudur on Java Island, Indonesia – Dive with manta rays around the Nusa Islands, Indonesia – Dive a shipwreck in Coron, the Philippines – Take a cooking class in Hoi An, Vietnam (or anywhere else!) – Stay in a hostel and explore the nightlife with new friends – Learn a few words of a new language – Learn a new skill like kayaking, surfing or boxing.

Thanks for reading my Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary!

I hope you find it easy to follow my Southeast Asia backpacking route and have countless fantastic experiences along the way! Let me know how you get on.

If you liked it, please share it!

See you next time for more adventures,

Ps. Liked my 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary? Pin it for later! 

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

41 thoughts on “ 3 Month Southeast Asia Itinerary & Backpacking Route ”

What was your daily budget in SO Asia?

Probably about £30 per day!

The last plan is insane! i genuinely think i wanna follow it and do it! one thing tho, how do you commute between all these spots? it will be my first time travelling solo, so a bit nervous as you can imagine

Hello! Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam can all be done by land (mainly bus), Bali you usually need taxis to get around, and Philippines is about flights and boats! Most things can be booked there: just ask at your accom! 🙂 enjoy your trip!

Suuuuch a great website – thank you so much for the insanely helpful info ✌️

Thanks Raph! Enjoy your trip

Hi such great itineraries! i would like to follow the last plan but im a bit unsure how to get from sapa to Indonesia ive tried googling flights but cant find any. Any help would be great thank you!

Hi Elle! Glad you liked them. I would suggest bussing it back to Hanoi to get a flight 🙂

Hi, I’m looking to do the same route for 3 months, do you know how much money you left more or less between everything, to have an idea of the budget to take, thanks.

Hi Mark! On a backpackers budget, I’d say you could do it for as little as $1000 a month 🙂

Hi, thank you for these itineraries they’re amazing! I’m thinking of doing the last one including the phillipines/indonesia – in terms of budgeting does the above budget of approx 1000 dollars a month include flights between countries etc? I can see for some of these they’re super cheap but some a bit pricier so just wanted to triple check. Thank you!

Hi Lara! Great question, I would say my budget of 1000 did not include flights as I mainly took buses where possible. Best add a bit to the budget for them!

Hi, your blog has been so useful for me in planning my backpacking trip next year, they’re great itineraries! I’m probably going to follow your 3 month itinerary for the big 4 to start with, as then have another 3 months to spend in Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia. I was wondering if you had a map or link to map of your 3 month itinerary with all the locations you visited? As would be great to see how all the locations look on a map to plan travel between those. Thanks

Hi B! I just made and added a map for each itinerary so check back:)

Hey Rose, I love your plans!! Just a quick one about the big 4 how did you get between them without flights and how much did it cost you. Thankyou so much!

Hello! Cambodia to Thailand can be done by bus; Northern Thailand to Laos can be done by bus and boat; Laos to Cambodia can be done by land too and so can Southern Vietnam to Cambodia by bus and boat. The only place you’ll want to fly is Laos to Northern Vietnam as the bus is hellish.

Check 12go for prices!

Hey Rose, really enjoyed reading through your guide as i am preparing my trip to the south at the end of this year. I will do slight the opposite, as i will start in Hanói and make my way down these countries as i plan to end my trip in Australia!

My question is related to Visas! do you have a guide or any advice how i can easily manage to get visas between the different countries? I am slightly worried about this. Apologies if you have this information in your guide but could’t find it.

Hi Jay, glad you liked the guide and hope you have an amazing trip!

All the visas vary per country and depending on what your passport is, and they change from time to time. So I don’t like to give advice and it be wrong – so I would recommend researching them individually 🙂

Hi Rose! This post has been super helpful learning the must see spots and some suggestions with routes. I am planning to go to South East Asia starting Oct/Nov until end of April. Do you have any suggestion on where to start so the weather works in the countries along the way. (Wanting to hit the 6 countries you listed)

Hi Sophia, sounds like a great trip! To my knowledge, they are all pretty good in that season… Apart from Northern Vietna which is cold in winter so maybe you want to save that region until like March!

Hi Rose! How far would you book accomodation and flights in advance?

Hello – accommodation you can do last minute, but flights between Asian countries I’d do a month in advance. For your flights out to Asia, try and do a few months before!

Hi Rose Very helpful post! Would you say that May-July might be too hot/humid/rainy for doing Thailand (including the gulf-side islands), Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam? Ideally would be a better trip Jan- April but timing means I’m likely to travel in May/ June from the UK. I know Malaysia and Indonesia are fine/great May- Sept but seems less so for Thailand/Indochina. Any thoughts?

Hello! I have only been in Vietnam in that season and it’s pretty hot but you can work around it. Not too sure about the others, sorry!

Hey Rose, awesome itineraries thank you 🙂 How far in advance would you recommend booking cross-border trains, boats and buses between South East Asian countries?

Hello, just a day or so before is fine!

Really great article. Thanks for taking the time to explain things in such great detail in a way that is easy to understand.

Absolutely Brilliant Rose Old fart going solo and planning 9-10mths. It’s given me the heads up ive been looking for to look into. Its either 1 or 3 Tks

Hey David! Have a amazing time!

Hey! I love this itinerary. I want to travel to SOA beginning of next year and want to take a very similar route to this one. I initially planned Feb – Apr, but someone warned me about burning season in north Thailand & Laos. Do you have any experience with this issue & how bad is it? If I start in January, are my chances of avoiding this better? Anyway, thanks for this post, it’s helped me tons with planning!

Hello, yes it’s pretty bad! I would avoid the region in Feb and March. Hope you can work around it and have a fab trip!

Hi Rose, this is super helpful – thank you! My wife and I will be spending 6 months in SE Asia next year and want too also include Borneo to go and try and see the orangutans. Would you recommend going from Bali or after the Philippines (potentially on the way back to KL or Bangkok)

Hi Laura, thanks for reading! I think you’ll find it easier and cheaper to get a return flight from KL so maybe do it as a side trip from there? That’s what I did anyway!

Incredible post thank you! Saved for our trip in a year’s time!

Woah, I got tired and anxious whilst reading? Btw, how did you manage accomodations? Did you book them in advance or book them as you arrive to the place? There’s a lot of jumping.

Lol, yes a lot of travel can be tiring and I’m sure anxiety-inducing for some. I usually just book on Hostelworld on my phone the day before arriving!

Hi! Thank you for such detailed itineraries. I’m thinking of doing the last one but only Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia and Philippines (leaving out Laos and Vietnam). But I only have 6-8 weeks. Do you think this would be possible?

Hi Emma, yes I think so, I would spend the most time in Thailand and Malaysia… Maybe just pick 1-2 places in the Philippines as moving around islands is time consuming!

Hi Rose, Thank you so much for this itinerary! I was wondering (in terms of the 3-month big four trail) if it could work better to fly from the UK to Phuket and start there then work our way up to Bangkok so that we don’t have to double-back on ourselves? Then follow the rest of the trail from there. We are yet to book our flights and thought this could be a good option?

Hello yes great idea! Enjoy!

Thanks Paula!

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The Best 3 Month Southeast Asia Itinerary: 2024

Planning a 3 Month Southeast Asia itinerary? Here’s our in-depth guide on how to travel around Southeast Asia in 3 months. Spend your days exploring tropical jungles, admiring temples and enjoying some of the world’s best cuisines. With 3 months in Southeast Asia, there’s a lot you can see and we’ll show you how to create the perfect itinerary.

Southeast Asia is one of the most popular backpacking destinations with countries filled with adventure, friendly locals and budget-friendly prices.

This region of the world is perfect for any type of traveller and we’ve created the best 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary for you to plan the perfect trip. Firstly, we’d like to cover a few things – what countries are in Southeast Asia ?

The mainland Southeast Asia trail covers Thailand , Cambodia , Vietnam and Laos with the addition of Malaysia , Singapore and Myanmar (Burma) for those with more time.

Other popular countries in Southeast Asia are the Philippines and Indonesia (including Bali) which usually involve flying as they both consist of a lot of tropical islands! Finally, there’s Brunei and Timor-Leste which definitely don’t get as much attention as other countries in Southeast Asia.

This post may contain affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links, at no additional cost to you .

In this 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary, we show you how to visit Singapore, Malaysia , Thailand , Cambodia , Vietnam, Laos and Indonesia with the option to switch plans around and create your perfect itinerary.

Quick Tips for a 3 Month Southeast Asia Itinerary

Table of Contents (Skip to a section!)

• Currencies  – All 7 countries in this Southeast Asia itinerary have different currencies. Here’s a list if you’d like to compare it to your own currency : Singapore Dollar, Malaysian Ringgit Thai Baht, US Dollars & Cambodian Riel, Vietnamese Dong, Laotian Kip and Indonesian Rupiah.
• Language  – These countries also have their own languages and English is found in popular travel destinations. It’s recommended to learn a few phrases before visiting!
• Food  – Curries, rice dishes, noodle dishes, fresh fruit, coconuts & more!
• Apps  –   GoogleMaps, GoogleTranslate, Grab & Gojek
• Accommodation – Hostelworld here  or  Booking.com here
• Travel Adaptor  – (Plugs C & G) We recommend buying an International Worldwide Travel Adaptor !

Also check out our Southeast Asia Packing Guide and Budget Guide for Southeast Asia !

How to get around Southeast Asia

Once you arrive in Southeast Asia, the best way to get around the region is by bus, ferry or flying! When you’re in a country, island or city the best way to get around will be a scooter, tuk-tuk or local transport if they have it! Tuk-tuks and taxis are always around the major destinations if you’re ever stuck.

Flights  – Check Skyscanner  for flight times and prices!

3 Month Southeast Asia Itinerary

Now onto the part, you came here for – the Southeast Asia 3 month itinerary! We’ve added how to get around from each destination, a recommendation of where to stay and a list of the best things to do in every city, town or island! We’ve also put the itinerary on GoogleSheets *for free * so you can use it during your trip.

Find the full itinerary on GoogleSheets here – copy and paste it to start creating your 3 Month Southeast Asia itinerary! You can also share it with family and friends so they can see where you’re staying and which country you’re in. Here’s our in-depth travel itinerary!

Singapore | 3 Days

• Singapore | Day 1 – 4 (3 days)

The futuristic urban jungle of Singapore is the best place to start your 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary! The flights arriving into the country are usually pretty good from around the world (as well as flying into Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur), and Singapore is a great city to get over jetlag whilst exploring the sights.

The small country of Singapore is more pricey than other countries in Southeast Asia which means it’s likely to be above budget as accommodation is more expensive. Keep this in mind when starting your 3 months in Southeast Asia and definitely eat in Hawker centres if you want budget-friendly food in Singapore! The best way to get around the city is by metro, bus or Grab .

Things to do in Singapore

• Walk around the Gardens by the Bay & see the view from Marina Bay Sands
• Admire the Botanical Gardens
• Eat your heart out in the Hawker Centre’s
• Visit Sentosa Island & spend the day at Universal Studios
• Browse around the colourful streets of Little India and China Town
• Watch the impressive light & water show

Where to stay in Singapore – 7 Wonders Hostel in Little India!

Malaysia | 10 days

• Malaysia | Day 4 – 14 (10 days)

A country filled with rainforests, wildlife, beautiful islands and vibrant cities deserves a spot on this 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary. We loved our time in Malaysia and would return just for the food!

With a mixed population of Malay, Indian and Chinese – there’s some amazing street food and restaurants to eat at during your 10 days in Malaysia.

There’s so much to do in Malaysia and with 10 days you’ll be able to visit the main highlights! The best way to get around the country is by bus or flying .

Kualar Lumpur – 3 days

Start your Malaysia itinerary in the hectic capital city, Kuala Lumpur! It’s a 5 hour bus ride to get to Kuala Lumpur from Singapore and the prices are inexpensive. 3 days is perfect for Kuala Lumpur and a great amount of time to explore the city visiting the towers, malls, parks and temples. The metro system is easy to use and Grab’s are available everywhere around the city.

Things to do in Kuala Lumpur

• Visit the tallest twin towers in the world, Petronas Towers & browse around KLCC (park)
• Take a trip to the Batu Caves
• Admire Thean Hou Temple
• Walk around Perdana Botanical Gardens & Walk high in the trees at KL Forest Eco Park
• Visit Central Market & China Town & shop at Petaling Street Market
• Here’s our 3 Day Kuala Lumpur itinerary with more details!

Where to eat in Kuala Lumpur – Sweet Veggie (Pudu), Happy Sambodi Vege Restaurant, Sangeetha Veg Restaurant, SALA Berjaya Times Square

Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur – D’majestic Place By Homes ($-$$)

Cameron Highlands – 2 days

Next up in your 3 months in Southeast Asia itinerary is the Cameron Highlands – a beautiful region filled with tea plantations, colder weather and rainforests. Check out our guide to visiting Cameron Highlands with many recommendations and tips!

It’s a 4 hour bus ride to get from Kuala Lumpur to Cameron Highlands and the best way to get around the Cameron Highlands is by scooter, tours or renting a car .

Things to do in Cameron Highlands

• Visit the BOH Tea Plantations & Cafe
• Explore the Mossy Forest & Mount Brinchang
• Browse around the town of Tanah Rata
• Go hiking in the hills ( find out more here ) & jungle trek to find the Giant Rafflesia
• Visit Bharat Tea Plantations
• Pick your own strawberries

Where to eat in Cameron Highlands – Singh Chapati, Restoran Sri Brinchang

Where to stay in Cameron Highlands – Bricks Cameron Hostel (this is where we stayed)!

➤ Still saving for your Southeast Asia trip? Here’s our tips on how to save money for your travels !

Penang – 3 days

The best area to base yourself in Penang is the colourful city of Georgetown. Spend 3 days wandering around the colonial streets finding street art and amazing local cuisine. Penang also has amazing viewpoints, jungles, and beaches to explore outside of historic Georgetown.

It takes around 5 hours on a bus to get from Cameron Highlands to Georgetown, Penang and the best way to get around Penang is by bus, scooter or tour .

Things to do in Penang

• Visit Kek Lok Si Temple
• Chill at Batu Ferringhi Beach
• Get the cable car or hike up Penang Hill
• Walk around Little India (the best restaurants & street food!)
• Admire the street art in Georgetown
• Enjoy all the multicultural food Penang has to offer
• Check out our Penang itinerary to plan your trip!

Where to eat in Penang – Ee Beng Vegetarian Food, Woodlands Vegetarian Restaurant, Jian Jian Vegetarian Food

Where to stay in Penang – We Love GuestHouse ($) – Find the link here!

Langkawi – 2 days

Now it’s time to explore the first tropical island of your 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary! Langkawi is a beautiful island in the northwest of Malaysia near the border of Thailand. It’s a nature-filled paradise with wildlife, beaches and waterfalls.

It takes about 3 hours by ferry to get from Georgetown to Langkawi and the best way to get around Langkawi is by walking, scooter or tour .

Things to do in Langkawi

• Walk along the Langkawi SkyBridge & go on the Langkawi SkyCab ( Cable car )
• Admire Telaga Tujuh Waterfall & Seven Wells Waterfall
• Visit the Eagle statue (Dataran Lang)
• Relax on Tanjung Rhu beach
• Go on a mangrove tour in Kilim Geoforest Park

Where to stay in Langkawi – Gecko Guesthouse – Find the link here !

Malaysia travel guides : 2 Week Malaysia Itinerary , Cameron Highlands Itinerary , Ipoh Itinerary , Melaka Itinerary , Penang Itinerary and Kuala Lumpur Itinerary !

Southern Thailand & Bangkok | 13 days

• Southern Thailand & Bangkok | Day 14 – 27 (13 days)

The Thai islands will be some of the most beautiful places on your 3 months in Southeast Asia itinerary. Whether you’re into relaxing on the beach, snorkelling or partying – there’s really something for everyone in the South of Thailand .

On a Southeast Asia 3 months itinerary it’s going to be hard to visit all of these stunning islands, so we’ve chosen three for you to enjoy. If you have more time head over to the Gulf of Thailand to enjoy Koh Tao , Koh Phangan and Koh Samui . You can also check out our 1 month Thailand itinerary !

Koh Lipe – 2 days

Koh Lipe is a lovely island to start your Thailand trip – white sand beaches, crystal clear water and hiking on nearby islands. When you enter Thailand, you’ll have to get your visa when you arrive at the border.

It takes 2 hours by ferry to get from Langkawi to Koh Lipe and the best way to get around Koh Lipe is by walking or bicycle . Find out how to book transport online here !

Things to do in Koh Lipe

• Relax on Pattaya Beach, Sunrise Beach & Sunset Beach
• Day trip & hike Koh Adang
• Go snorkelling & admire tropical fish
• Browse and shop around Koh Lipe walking street

Where to stay in Koh Lipe – Bayview Sunset ($) – Find the link here !

Koh Lanta – 3 days

Koh Lanta will always hold a place in our hearts as we lived there for 2 months volunteering at Lanta Animal Welfare . We highly recommend visiting Koh Lanta for a few relaxing days and taking it slow on your Southeast Asia 3 month itinerary. Visit the many beaches of Koh Lanta as well as explore Old Town and the national park.

It takes around 4 hours by ferry to get from Koh Lipe to Koh Lanta and the best way to get around Koh Lanta is by scooter, tuk-tuk or tour.

Check out our 3 days in Koh Lanta itinerary for a more in-depth travel guide!

Things to do in Koh Lanta

• Visit Lanta Animal Welfare ( find out about volunteering here! )
• Hike around Visit Mu Ko Lanta National Park
• Visit the beautiful Old Town
• Take a Thai cooking class ( with Time for Lime, find out more here !
• Relax on the many beaches around the island
• Go on a snorkelling tour or go scuba diving

Where to stay in Koh Lanta – Coco Lanta Resort ($$) – Find the link here & Baan Suan Rim Klong ($)- Find the link here !

Best Restaurants in Koh Lanta – Yawee Restaurant, Aleena’s, The Angels & Spring Rolls (We have a vegan in Koh Lanta travel guide )!

➤ Things to Know Before Visiting Thailand – The Best Thailand Travel Tips!

Koh Phi Phi – 3 days

The famous Koh Phi Phi could be the most popular island in Thailand (along with Phuket). Other than the island being catered towards tourism with markets and tours, it’s absolutely beautiful and the rock formations around the islands will leave you speechless.

It takes around 1 hour by ferry to get from Koh Lanta to Koh Phi Phi and the best way to get around the island is by walking !

Things to do in Koh Phi Phi

• Visit Monkey Beach
• Take a trip to Bamboo Island
• Shop around the Phi Phi markets
• Take a snorkelling tour around the islands (see Maya Bay)
• Hike up to Phi Phi viewpoint

Where to stay in Koh Phi Phi – Harmony House ($) – Find the link here!

Krabi (Ao Nang) – 2 days

Krabi is the region of Thailand which includes Koh Lanta and Koh Phi Phi and in this 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary, we recommend basing yourself in Ao Nang once on the mainland of Krabi. Ao Nang has many restaurants and easy access to boat tours, ferries and Railay Beach.

It takes around 2 hours by ferry to get from Koh Phi Phi to Ao Nang, Krabi and the best way to get around Krabi is by scooter, Grab, taxi, tour, car rental & walking around Ao Nang .

Things to do in Krabi

• Hike to the Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple)
• Take a trip to Railay Beach
• Relax on Ao Nang Beach
• Admire the rock formations or go rock climbing
• Here are even more things to do in Krabi, Thailand !

Where to stay in Krabi – J Mansion, Ao Nang ($) – Find the link here !

Bangkok – 3 days

After an amazing 10 days of island hopping in Thailand, head to Bangkok – the capital of Thailand! Bangkok is the central hub of Southeast Asia and another great place to start your trip. There’s many things to do in the city such as temples, markets and shopping. It’s also a great city for rooftop bars and nightlife!

It takes around 1.5 hours to get from Krabi to Bangkok by plane or it’s a 10-hour bus journey. We used the bus and it’s not too bad overnight, just long! The best way to get around Bangkok is by Grab, metro & bus .

Things to do in Bangkok

• Visit the famous The Grand Palace
• Also, visit Wat Phra Chetuphon, Wat Arun Ratchawararam & Wat Traimit
• Browse around the Chatuchak Weekend Market
• Walk around Lumphini Park
• Visit Khao San Road & Chinatown
• Shop in the many malls such as MBK Center & Central World
• Plan your 3 days in Bangkok with our travel guide!

Where to stay in Bangkok – Pillow & Bread ($) – Find the link here !

Some of our Thailand travel guides : 4 Day Phuket Itinerar y / 3 Day Koh Lanta Itinerary / 3 Day Bangkok Itinerary / Thailand Travel Tips / 2 Week Thai Islands Itinerary

Cambodia | 12 days

• Cambodia | Day 27 – 39 (12 days)

The next country on your 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary is Cambodia . It’s home to the well-known Angkor Wat and many more temples across the country. The islands here are more natural and not as touristic as the Thai islands but just as beautiful. Cambodia is definitely worth a visit on a 3 month Southeast Asia route.

The best way to get around Cambodia is by bus and then using tuk-tuks or scooters when in destinations. It’s also very easy to get to Cambodia from Bangkok. Here’s our 2 Week Cambodia itinerary !

Siem Reap – 3 days

The first destination on your Cambodia trip is Siem Reap and the Angkor Complex. Siem Reap is the perfect base for exploring the temples and you can spend anything from 1 day to 1-week temple hopping. We spent 1 day at the Angkor Complex due to the difficult high heat in April and saw the main highlights.

The bus journey from Bangkok to Siem Reap takes around 8 hours including the border crossing. It’s also possible to fly to Siem Reap in 1 hour. We took the bus during the daytime and it was comfortable but long.

The best way to get around the Angkor Complex is by tuk-tuk for the day or by bicycle . It is possible to walk, but it’s not advised as it can take 4.5 hours to get around in the heat.

Things to do in Siem Reap

• Explore the famous Angkor Complex  (1 day is $37, 3 days is $62 & 7 days is $72)
• Walk down Pub Street
• Visit the Angkor National Museum
• Shop the markets & eat street food

Where to stay in Siem Reap – Side Walk Hotel ($) – Find the link here !

Phnom Penh – 2 days

Phnom Penh is the capital of Cambodia and there’s so much history to learn around the city. 2 days is a good amount of time to spend here and you’ll also come back for one evening at the end of this Cambodia itinerary. Phnom Penh is not as developed as Bangkok or Singapore.

It takes around 7 hours to get from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh by bus and the best way to get around Phnom Penh is by tuk-tuk, taxi or Grab .

Things to do in Phnom Penh

• Learn in the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (the dark history of Cambodia)
• Browse around the Central Market & Russian Market
• Visit the Royal Palace of Cambodia
• See the Buddhist temple – Wat Phnom
• Learn more at the Killing Fields in Choeung Ek

Where to stay in Phnom Penh – Hotel Zing ($) – Find the link here !

Kampot – 2 days

The riverside town of Kampot is a unique place to visit in Cambodia during your 3 months in Southeast Asia itinerary. Spend the next few days taking it easy in Kampot and the islands after understanding more about Cambodia’s history.

It takes around 3 hours to get from Phnom Penh to Kampot and the best way to get around Kampot is by scooter, tuk-tuk or walking .

Things to do in Kampot

• See the view from Bokor Mountain
• Kayak through the mangroves in Kampot River
• Visit the Pepper Farm
• Watch the sunset from the riverside beaches

Where to stay in Kampot – Bohemiaz Resort and Spa Kampot ($) – Find the link here !

Koh Rong – 2 days

Welcome to the tropical Cambodian island of Koh Rong! This is the first of two islands you’ll visit in Cambodia on this 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary. If you want to relax a little more, you can also just choose one island – Koh Rong is more popular whilst Koh Rong Sanloem is usually the quieter island.

As far as we know, there are no roads or ATMs in Koh Rong or Koh Rong Sanloem and limited electricity and Wifi.

It takes around 4 hours to get from Kampot to Phnom Penh by minivan and ferry. The best way to get around Koh Rong is by walking tours, and boat taxis.

Things to do in Koh Rong

• Relax at White Beach
• Walk through the jungle to Long Beach
• Enjoy scuba diving, snorkelling or kayaking
• Join the bars & party at Police Beach

Where to stay in Koh Rong – Psk Vimean Koh Rong Guesthouse ($) – Find the link here !

➤ Check out our Southeast Asia Budget Guide to plan prices for Cambodia!

Koh Rong Sanloem – 2 days

Similar to Koh Rong is another beautiful island – Koh Rong Sanloem! It’s more chilled, less developed and another great island for snorkelling, relaxing and you’ll still find a few parties going on.

It takes around 40 minutes by ferry to get from Koh Rong to Koh Rong Sanloem and the best way to get around Koh Rong Sanloem is by walking, tour, or boat taxi .

Things to do in Koh Rong Sanloem

• Chill at M’Pai Bay & swim with Bioluminescent Plankton
• Hike to the Old Lighthouse
• Visit Saracen Bay or Lazy Beach
• Watch the sunset at Sunset Beach

Where to stay in Koh Rong Sanloem – The Cliff Hostel ($) – Find the link here !

Phnom Penh – 1 day

It takes around 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on which ferry you take to get from Koh Rong Sanloem to Sihanoukville. From Sihanoukville, it takes around 5 hours by bus to get to Phnom Penh.

You’ll most likely arrive in the evening, so find some dinner and prepare for the next adventure in your 3 months in Southeast Asia itinerary to Vietnam.

Check out our 2 Week Cambodia Itinerary for more details!

Vietnam | 22 days

• Vietnam | Day 39 – 61 (22 days)

If you’re planning a 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary, Vietnam can’t be missed. It’s one of the best countries for backpacking in Southeast Asia with a variety of things to do! Between 3 weeks to 1 month is the perfect time to spend in Vietnam ( you’ll probably want longer too! ), eating the delicious local cuisine, and exploring hills, jungles, beaches, caves, and falls!

The best way to get around Vietnam is by night buses, trains, and flights . The night buses have sleeper seats throughout the country, making them very comfortable for sleeping if you’re not too tall!

Ho Chi Minh – 2 days

Ho Chi Minh, also known as Saigon, is one of Vietnam’s biggest cities filled with street food, shopping, monuments, and museums! Spend 2-3 days in Ho Chi Minh adjusting to Vietnam before taking a trip to the Mekong River.

It takes around 7 hours by bus to get from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh and the best way to get around Ho Chi Minh is by Grab, tuk-tuks, walking, and tours .

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh

• See the view from Bitexco Financial Tower
• Learn about history at the War Remnants Museum
• Visit Giac Lam Pagoda
• Walk down Pham Ngu Lao Street
• Send a letter home from the Central Post Office & visit Notre Dame Cathedral
• Take a trip to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh – Ngoc Loan Hotel ($) – Find the link here !

Can Tho – 1 day

On day 3 of your Vietnam trip, head to Can Tho to experience the city on the Mekong River. It’s also possible to do this on a day trip from Ho Chi Minh, but we really enjoyed a full day in Can Tho including the early morning wake-up to visit the floating markets.

It takes roughly 4 hours to get from Ho Chi Minh to Can Tho and the city is easily walkable other than visiting the floating markets on a local boat.

Things to do in Can Tho

• Hop on a boat and see the Cai Rang Floating Market
• Walk around Ninh Kieu Wharf
• Visit the Cacao farm & Rice Noodle Factory
• Browse the many markets in Can Tho

Where to stay in Can Tho – Green Village Mekong ($) – Find the link here !

Ho Chi Minh – 1 day

After spending one night in Can Tho, head back to Ho Chi Minh after visiting the floating markets and relax before catching another bus the next day.

Mui Ne – 2 days

There is one reason Mui Ne made it onto this 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary – it’s home to white and red sand dunes – which is completely different from the rest of the tropical and mountainous country. Mui Ne is the perfect base to book a sunrise tour and see everything in the town!

It takes around 4.5 hours by bus to get from Ho Chi Minh to Mui Ne and the best way to get around Mui Ne is by booking a tour . There are rumours that the police like to try to catch tourists out on scooters here, so we wouldn’t recommend renting one!

Things to do in Mui Ne

• Take a Sunrise Tour of the Red & White Sand Dunes
• Visit the Fishing Village & Market
• Walk through the sandy Fairy Stream
• Relax on the beach & enjoy the nearby restaurants

Where to stay in Mui Ne – Mui Ne Hills Backpackers ($) – Find the link here !

Da Lat – 2 days

In the Central Highlands of Vietnam is the French colonial city of Da Lat. If you’re visiting between December and March it can get pretty chilly in the mountains, but the most popular thing to do here is to go canyoning! Our guides at Dalat Adventure Tours were amazing we highly recommend them!

It takes between 4 to 5 hours by bus to get from Mui Ne to Da Lat and the journey takes you higher into the mountains with many windy roads. The best way to get around Da Lat is by scooter, taxi or walking .

Things to do in Da Lat

• Go canyoning in the falls of Da Lat ( Dalat Adventure Tours )
• Walk around the Valley of Love
• Browse the Da Lat Market
• Get lost in the Crazy House
• Visit the Maze Bar
• See the Pagoda’s

Where to stay in Da Lat – Raon Hotel ($) – Find the link here !

Hoi An – 3 days

Hoi An is one of central Vietnam’s prettiest cities – making a name for itself with beautiful lantern markets along the river. You can spend anything from 3 days to a week here enjoying all the best things to do in Hoi An. The best way to get around Hoi An is by walking, scooter, bicycle or tour .

It takes around 14 hours to get from Da Lat to Hoi An by an overnight sleeper bus – which will be the second night bus on your 3 months in Southeast Asia itinerary. Vietnam sleeper buses are pretty comfortable! The other way to get to Hoi An is to fly from Da Lat to Da Nang and take a 45-minute bus to Hoi An.

Things to do in Hoi An

• Fall in love with the Old Town
• Shop at all the Local Markets & get a Tailored piece of clothing
• Chill on An Bang Beach
• Rent a bicycle or scooter & ride around the countryside
• Visit Ruins, Museums & Monuments

Where to stay in Hoi An – Legend Ancient Town Hoi An Hotel ($) – Find the link here !

➤ Plan your clothes with our Southeast Asia Packing Guide !

Da Nang – 2 days

Not many people talk about Da Nang on a 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary, but as it’s home to the famous Golden Bridge in the sky – it’s become a popular place to visit. The city is right on the beach with beautiful mountains surrounding the skyscrapers.

It takes 45 minutes by bus to get from Hoi An to Da Nang and the best way to get around Da Nang is by Grab, scooter or tour .

Things to do in Da Nang

• Visit the Ba Na Hills ( theme park resort )
• Relax on My Khe, Pham Van Dong & Non Nuoc Beach
• Watch the fire show at the Dragon Bridge
• Drive to the Hai Van Pass ( the best way is to rent a scooter )

Where to stay in Da Nang – Señorita Boutique Hotel ($) – Find the link here !

Hue – 1 day

Also in central Vietnam is Hue – a city known for its impressive Imperial City . In this Southeast Asia 3 month itinerary there’s enough time for 1 day in Hue to enjoy the best things to do in the city and prepare for a night bus the following day.

It takes about 3 hours to get from Da Nang to Hue by bus and the best way to get around Hue is by scooter, taxi or tour .

Things to do in Hue

• Visit the Imperial Citadel
• Visit the Tomb Of Khai Dinh, Tomb Of Minh Mang & Tomb Of Tu Duc
• Explore the Abandoned Water Park ( where the famous dragon is! )

Where to stay in Hue – Tâm Homestay ($) – Find the link here !

Ninh Binh – 2 days

Ninh Binh is a beautiful place to visit during your 3 months in Southeast Asia. You can spend your days on a small boat floating through caves or hiking to peaks with views of rice paddies. Base yourself in Trang An or Tam Coc to really feel the nature here!

It takes around 11 hours by bus or train to get from Hue to Ninh Binh and the best way to get around Ninh Binh is by scooter, bicycle, taxi , tour . When arriving in Ninh Binh you will need to get a taxi to Tam Coc or Trang An.

Things to do in Ninh Binh

• Explore the beautiful Tam Coc
• Hike to Hang Mua Peak & visit Mua Cave
• Take a boat trip around Trang An
• Find the Bich Dong Pagoda
• Ride around the beautiful scenery (by bicycle or scooter)

Where to stay in Ninh Binh – Tam Coc Melody Homestay ($) – Find the link here !

Cat Ba – 2 days

Cat Ba is an alternative place to stay to Ha Long Bay – it’s a lot more chilled and the views are almost the same! The island has so much to offer and one of our favourite views from a hike is in Cat Ba National Park.

It takes around 4.5 hours to get from Ninh Binh to Cat Ba by bus and ferry. The best way to get around Cat Ba is by scooter and joining onto a boat trip to explore the famous bays (Lan Ha Bay & Ha Long Bay).

Things to do in Cat Ba

• Go on a Lan Ha Bay Cruise (also visits Ha Long Bay)
• Hike in Cat Ba National Park
• Go kayaking, snorkelling or rock climbing
• See the views from Canon Fort & explore Đài Quan Sát Phía Đông)

Where to stay in Cat Ba – Bao Phuc Hotel ($-$$) – Find the link here !

Sapa – 2 days

Up in the northwest of Vietnam, surrounded by mountains and rice paddies is the beautiful town of Sapa! Sa Pa is a popular hiking spot in Vietnam and you can take walking tours with the locals to explore the area. The best places to stay in Sa Pa are homestays overlooking the rice paddies. Check out the town on your way back to the bus station.

It takes around 13 hours to get from Cat Ba to Sapa on a ferry and an overnight bus and the best way to get around Sapa is by scooter, walking, taxi or tour .

Things to do in Sapa

• Trek through the rice paddies
• Ride the Cable Car to Fansipan (one of the highest mountains in Southeast Asia)
• Hike to Love Waterfall & Silver Waterfall
• Get cosy in the cafes in Sapa town
• Stay in a homestay

Where to stay in Sapa – Surelee Homestay ($) – Find the link here !

Hanoi – 2 days

Now it’s time to explore the capital city of Vietnam – Hanoi. Hanoi is another unique capital city on this 3 months in Southeast Asia itinerary with French influences, along with Chinese & Southeast Asian. The city’s Old Quarter has many markets, shopping and restaurants to enjoy 2 days in Hanoi.

It takes 7 hours by bus to get from Sapa to Hanoi and the best way to get around Hanoi is by Grab, walking or taxis .

Things to do in Hanoi

• Browse around the beautiful Old Quarter
• Go to a cafe on the Train Tracks
• Visit the Temple of Literature & St. Joseph’s Cathedral
• Walk around Hoàn Kiếm Lake
• Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Where to stay in Hanoi – Hanoi City Backpackers Hostel ($) – Find the link here !

Laos | 7 days

• Laos | Day 61 – 68 (7 days)

Onto the next country on this 3 months in Southeast Asia itinerary – Laos is a country in the north filled with quaint towns, beautiful mountains and jungles. We recommend you spend at least 1 week in Laos exploring 2-3 towns before catching the slow boat into the North of Thailand.

Vang Vieng – 2 days

Vang Vieng is a small mountainous town that became a very popular party and tubing destination. It was stopped for a long time due to the dangerous side of mixing both of these activities together – but in 2024 it’s now possible to go tubing again (responsibly)! The surroundings of Vang Vieng are definitely worth a visit during your 3 months Southeast Asia trip.

It can take around 20 hours by bus to get from Hanoi to Vang Vieng which is very long, but the best option if you’re on a budget. Alternatively, there’s a new railway connecting Hanoi to Vientiane and then you can catch a bus to Vang Vieng.

It’s also possible to fly to Vientiane to save time and check out Vientiane along the way, we didn’t have time on our 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary. The best way to get around Vang Vieng is by songthaews & scooter .

Things to do in Vang Vieng

• Take a dip in Blue lagoon 1 & Blue Lagoon 3 
• Go Kayaking or Tubing on Nan Song river
• Admire the surrounding at Pha Tang Bridge
• Head to Nam Xay Viewpoint & Tham Chang cave 

Where to stay in Vang Vieng – Vang Vieng Champa Hotel ($) – Find the link here !

Luang Prabang – 3 days

Another must-visit destination in Laos is Luang Prabang – an ancient capital known for its temples and monasteries. This royal city is also a great spot for visiting the popular Kuang Si waterfalls.

It takes around 6 hours to get from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang bus however there is a new railway that may only take 2 hours by train. The best way to get around Luang Prabang is by scooter, tuk-tuk or tour .

Things to do in Luang Prabang

• Visit the Kuang Si waterfalls
• Admire the view from Phu Si Mountain
• Explore the Royal Temple, Wat Wisunalat & Wat Xieng Thong

Where to stay in Luang Prabang – Golden Lotus Place ($) – Find the link here !

➤ Here’s our tips on how to save money for your backpacking trip !

Mekong River Slow Boat (Travel Days) – 2 days

The Mekong River stretches through many countries of mainland Southeast Asia and you now have the option to take a two-day slow boat from Luang Prabang to Chiang Rai in Northern Thailand. It’s a popular route for backpackers and although not the most comfortable – it’s definitely an experience!

There are around 8 hours of sailing on the first day and around 7 hours on the second day with an overnight stop in the small town of Pakbeng. The boat will drop you off in Chiang Khong and then it’s a 2-3 hour bus journey to Chiang Rai.

Northern Thailand | 8 days

• Northern Thailand | Day 68 – 76 (8 days)

After the long slow boat from Laos, you will arrive back in Thailand – this time Northern Thailand! The north is filled with gorgeous jungles, mountains, temples and nature. The cuisine is also a little different in the North, so make sure to take the time to eat the local Thai food.

Chiang Rai – 2 days

The slow boat from Luang Prabang will take you to the mountainous city of Chiang Rai. This is where you can visit the famous White Temple, enjoy the waterfalls and check out Chiang Rai markets before heading to Pai.

Things to do in Chiang Rai

• Visit the White Temple
• Admire the Blue Temple
• Have fun at Khun Korn Forest Park, Khun Korn Forest Park & Pong Phrabat Waterfall
• Explore the Chiang Rai Night Markets 

Where to stay in Chiang Rai – Pan Kled Villa Eco Hill Resort ($$) – Find the link here !

Pai – 3 days

The backpacker favourite, Pai is located in the Mae Hong Soon Province. It’s known for its beautiful mountain scenery, laid-back town and delicious street food. Over the years Pai is becoming more and more popular and has a lot of influences from Western culture, especially the healthy yoga scene.

It takes around 7 hours to get from Chiang Rai to Pai by bus and the best way to get around Pai is by scooter, taxi, tour or songthaew .

Things to do in Pai

• Climb up to the White Buddha
• Watch the sunset at Pai Canyon
• Find the best food at Pai’s Walking Street Night Market
• Visit Mo Paeng Waterfall & Pam Bok Waterfall
• Visit the Land Split or go Whitewater Rafting

Where to stay in Pai – Kuad Khon Thoe Pai Cottage ($) – Find the link here !

Chiang Mai – 3 days

Chiang Mai is the main hub of Northern Thailand and one of our favourite cities on this 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary. Walk around the preserved Old City, visit temples, eat delicious Northern Thai food and explore the beautiful nature around the city. Chiang Mai is also a great spot for shopping!

It takes 4 hours by bus or minivan to get from Pai to Chiang Mai by bus. The best way to get around Chiang Mai is by using Grab, a scooter, songthaew, tuk-tuk, tour & walking .

Things to do in Chiang Mai

• Visit Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan & Wat Phra That Doi Kham
• Browse around the Night Bazaar or Sunday Walking Street Markets
• Take a Thai Cooking Class
• Have fun at the Grand Canyon Water Park

Where to stay in Chiang Mai – BB House Budget & Boutique ($) – Find the link here !

Our Thailand Travel Guides : 11+ Best Thailand Travel Tips , 1 month Thailand itinerary & 2 Week Thai Islands Itinerary !

Indonesia | 14 days

• Indonesia | Day 76 – 90 (14 days)

After spending just over a week in the beautiful North of Thailand, it’s time to head to your last country on this 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary. On our first trip to Southeast Asia, we ended our time relaxing on the beaches of Indonesia and it was the best way to prepare for home.

Spend 2 weeks exploring the Gili islands, the Nusa islands and beautiful Bali whilst enjoying the delicious Indonesian cuisine, and admiring the rice paddies, waterfalls and Balinese culture.

Bali (Ubud) – 3 days

Start your trip in central Bali surrounded by jungle and rice paddies! Ubud is one of the most beautiful places in Bali with nature, markets and the best food. 2-3 days is the perfect amount of time here to settle into the Bali lifestyle whilst checking out the best things to do in Ubud.

The best way to get from Thailand to Indonesia is by flying! Chiang Mai has an international airport and you may have to layover in Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur before getting to Bali Denpasar airport. The flight from Bangkok to Bali is around 4.5 hours.

The best way to get around mainland Bali is by taxi, scooter, Gojek and hiring a driver .

Things to do in Bali, Ubud

• Explore the rice fields ( Tegallalang Rice Terrace )
• Visit the Monkey Forest & Campuhan Ridge Walk
• Discover the surrounding waterfalls ( Tegenungan Waterfall )
• Drive north to Sekumpul Waterfalls

Where to stay in Bali, Ubud – Parthi Puri Ubud ($) – Find the link here !

➤ Travelling on a budget? Check out our Southeast Asia Budget Guide !

Gili Trawangan – 2 days

Head over to the Gili Islands (part of Lombok) to relax and explore the world underwater! Gili T is one of three Gili islands and is mostly known as the popular party island. We have stayed on all three and Gili T definitely has the most development and infrastructure which means more guesthouses, restaurants and shops.

There are a few ways how to get from Bali to Gili T but generally, it should take around 3 hours by mini-van and speedboat. The Gili islands have no roads, so the best way to get around Gili Trawangan is by walking or bicycle .

Things to do in Gili Trawangan

• Snorkel with the turtles
• Explore the island by bicycle
• Relax on the beaches
• Visit the shops & markets

Where to stay in Gili Trawangan – Little Woodstock Homestay ($) – Find the link here !

Gili Air – 2 days

Gili Air is the third island out of the Gili islands and on the way, you will pass Gili Meno (the second island). Gili Meno is the quietest of the three islands which is why we recommend you visit Gili Air unless you want a quieter few days! Gili Air is laidback and has many restaurants to keep you busy whilst enjoying the beaches.

It takes 20 minutes to get from Gili Trawangan to Gili Air by speedboat and the best way to get around Gili Air is by walking or bicycle .

Things to do in Gili Air

• Go Snorkelling (Find the underwater statues)
• Find the swings at the beach
• Watch sunsets at the beach

Where to stay in Gili Air – Kelapa Gading Bungalows ($) – Find the link here !

Nusa Penida – 3 days

Nusa Penida is known as the smaller version of Bali nestled in between Bali and Lombok. Spend the next 3 days exploring beautiful beaches, viewpoints and all the best things to do in Nusa Penida!

It takes around 2.5 hours to get from Gili Air to Nusa Penida by speedboat and the best way to get around Nusa Penida is by scooter, car rental or tour .

Things to do in Nusa Penida

• Visit Diamond Beach & Atuh Beach
• Hike down to Kelingking Beach
• Explore Broken Beach
• Admire the views from Teletubbies Hill

Where to stay in Nusa Penida – The Kleep Jungle Resort ($) – Find the link here !

Nusa Lembongan – 2 days

Nusa Lembongan is another tropical island just next to Bali with wonderful nature, wildlife and coastal cliffs. It’s a great place to spend 2 days before making your way back to mainland Bali to end your 3 months in Southeast Asia.

It takes around 20 minutes to get from Nusa Penida to Nusa Lembongan and the best way to get around Nusa Lembongan is by scooter, taxi or tour .

Things to do in Nusa Lembongan

• Watch the waves at Devil’s Tears
• Snorkel or dive with Manta Rays
• Explore the Mangroves
• Visit the many beaches on the island

Where to stay in Nusa Lembongan – Wahyu Homestay 1 ($) – Find the link here !

Bali (Canggu) – 2 days

End your 3 months in Southeast Asia on the beaches of Bali before catching a flight out of Asia. Canggu is becoming more popular each year with travellers enjoying the waves, rice paddies and massive amounts of western cafes and Balinese food.

It takes around 2 hours to get from Nusa Lembongan to Bali, Canggu and the best way to get around Bali, Canggu is by scooter, Grab, taxi or tour .

Things to do in Bali (Canggu)

• Chill at Batu Bolong Beach & Berawa Beach
• Surf at Canggu Beach
• Explore the markets, cafes and restaurants

Where to stay in Bali, Canggu – Leyeh Leyeh Homestay ($) – Find the link here !

3 Month Southeast Asia Itinerary Breakdown

Just like that, we’ve come to the end of this 3 Month Southeast Asia itinerary! As the region is so big with multiple countries, there’s no time to fit every destination in. We loved Southeast Asia so much that we made sure to visit again and explore more areas whilst revisiting our favourite spots. In the future, we’d love to explore Malaysian Borneo, Myanmar, and more of Indonesia and Laos.

We hope that this 3 months in Southeast Asia itinerary is the best plan for you to create the best backpacking trip with the option to change a few things around!

Other places to visit during 3 Months in Southeast Asia

• The Philippines (Here’s our 3 weeks Philippines Itinerary )
• More of Indonesia
• Borneo Island (The Malaysian side)

Best time to visit Southeast Asia

The best time to visit Southeast Asia is between November and March in the dry season. However, it’s totally possible to explore the jungles in the rainy season when the colours are fresh!

In Laos and Northern Thailand, farmers burn their crops around March and the pollution is pretty bad. We recommend visiting at the beginning of the dry season when waterfalls are still beautiful and the air is still breathable! Some of the ferries to islands from June to September may have delays if there’s bad weather.

What to pack for 3 months in Southeast Asia

• Stainless Steel Water Bottle  – One of the most important items to bring on a trip to SEA.
• International Worldwide Travel Adaptor  – The best plug for travelling to multiple countries!
• Amazon Basics Packing Cubes  – The easiest way to pack your backpack!
• Sawyer Mini Water Filter  – Perfect to pair with a reusable water bottle & save plastic!
• Waterproof Bag 20L with Waterproof Phone Case  – Keep your valuables safe when island hopping!
• Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit  –  This tripod is the best lightweight tripod out there, helping you capture amazing shots if there’s no one around. We use a Joby GorillaPod  with our  Sony A6000 and would highly recommend it!
• Mosquito spray – The best mosquito spray to buy before a 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary.

➤ Here’s our Southeast Asia Packing Guide !

How to get to Southeast Asia

There are multiple airports around the region including big cities and small islands. The best way to get to Southeast Asia is to fly into Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur or Singapore . These destinations usually have the best-priced flights with direct and stopover options.

We’ve visited Southeast Asia twice – the first time was from London to Singapore and the second time was from Sri Lanka to Phuket, Thailand. At the time we also saw flights to Phuket for the same price as London to Sri Lanka.

The best way to find great flights is to check Skyscanner !

Helpful Info for a 3 month Southeast Asia Itinerary

When travelling throughout Southeast Asia it’s important to remember and respect the culture of each country. Cover up when visiting temples and wear beachwear only at beach areas or pools!

The main religions in Southeast Asia are : Islam, Buddhist, Hinduism, Christianity (Philippines) with many more throughout the countries.

There’s going to be delays during your Southeast Asia trip. A lot of transport in the region runs on island time – which means things usually take slower and sometimes you don’t really know whats going on. With the help of friendly locals, we always make it from A to B.

Pack light – You’re going to carry your bag around for 3 months in Southeast Asia! If it’s heavy, you will regret it. The less you pack the better, you can buy almost anything you need in these countries.

Visas in Southeast Asia

As you’ll be exploring 7 countries on this 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary, you’ll have to consider getting multiple visas. Some of these visas cost money or are needed in advance. Here’s visa information for UK passport holders in the 7 countries on this itinerary:

• Singapore – Visa-free on arrival (90 days)
• Malaysia – Visa-free on arrival (90 days)
• Thailand – Visa-free on arrival (30 days)
• Cambodia – USD$30 visa on arrival (30 days)
• Vietnam – up to 15 days for free or around USD$20 for a 30 day visa (apply about 1 week before travel online)
• Laos – USD$35 visa on arrival (30 days)
• Indonesia – Free tourist visa on arrival (30 days)

Alternative 3 Month Southeast Asia itinerary (missing out Laos)

If you need more time in some of these countries, removing Laos from this itinerary may be best. As sad as it is to remove a country, during 3 months in Southeast Asia you’re going to be exhausted on the move all the time! It takes a little while to get to Laos and the time can be spent in other countries.

• Singapore (3 days)
• Malaysia (12 days)
• Southern Thailand & Bangkok (16 days)
• Cambodia (12 days)
• Vietnam (24 days)
• Northern Thailand (9 days)
• Indonesia (14 days)

5 Months in Southeast Asia Itinerary

• Singapore (4 days)
• Malaysia (14 days)
• Southern Thailand & Bangkok (21 days)
• Cambodia (14 days)
• Vietnam (30 days)
• Northern Thailand (10 days)
• Indonesia (21 days)
• Malaysian Borneo (12 days)
• The Philippines (21 days)

If you have longer than 3 months in Southeast Asia, spend longer in each country or hop over to more islands in the region. When backpacking Southeast Asia remember to take rest days and chill – it’s tiring to travel around a lot but it’s also amazing!

More  Asia  guides:

• 3 Day Siquijor Itinerary, Philippines
• 3 Day Bohol Itinerary, Philippines
• 4 Day Penang Itinerary, Malaysia
• The Best 2 week South Thailand Itinerary
• Southeast Asia Packing Guide
• Southeast Asia Budget Guide
• All our  Southeast Asia posts !

That’s the end of our The Best 3 Month Southeast Asia Itinerary: 2024!  Have the best trip and if you need any more help planning – send us a message on Instagram (@thesunrisedreamers) or leave a comment below!

LIKE THIS POST? PIN IT FOR LATER & SHARE IT WITH OTHERS!

Don’t forget about Travel Insurance! –  SafetyWing  Nomad Insurance

SafetyWing  is a totally flexible monthly-rolling travel insurance to help you stay safe on your 3 Month Southeast Asia itinerary and anywhere in the world.  Find out more here!

Amy & Dan are the founders of The Sunrise Dreamers. They are travellers from the UK who have been on the road since 2017 whilst living in places like England, Canada, Thailand and the Canary Islands. They share their knowledge of travelling the world with detailed travel guides and tips. They're experts in vegan travel and show their audience how to travel on a budget.

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Singapore is definitely on my list (for Gardens by the Bay) but you’ve made me want to travel so much more. <3 love the packing tips

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South America Backpacking Route (3 months)

Welcome to our 3 month South America backpacking route.

It is no secret that South America boasts one of the world’s vastest continents, and in our opinion, is one of the best for any type of adventure travel .

Home to mysterious cultures and ruins, breathtaking landscapes as well as vibrant cultures, it truly is one of those regions that has it all. In this guide, we’ll take a look at our customized 3 months South America itinerary.

Having spent countless years here ourselves, we’ll give you deeper insights from our own experiences throughout this awesome continent .

What's in this guide?

South America backpacking Route

Whilst we would love to say that 3 months is enough to cover the continent, we cannot lie to you. You would need a minimum of 6 months, and even then that’s really pushing things.

However, 3 months is still good for exploring a good chunk of this region . In this itinerary, we’ll be starting off in Colombia , and then exploring Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina.

Getting around South America

This continent is quite a big one, and as such distances can be somewhat intimidating, to say the least.

Buses are the most used method of transport by backpackers since they’re the cheapest (often with several different companies serving the same route).

In Ecuador , they can be quite short, usually between 3-6 hours. In larger countries like Chile, travel times by bus can often be as much as 20 hours!

The other alternative way of getting around South America is via flights. They’re usually more expensive, however, they cut travel distances into just a fraction (since you’ll be flying over difficult jungle and mountain terrains, rather than motoring through and around them).

We recommend flying around Chile, and also some parts of Peru too (we’ll mention where specifically below in the itinerary).

Things to know before traveling to South America

Before packing your bags and hopping on the next flight, it’s important to first cover some other important advice.

Not only will these tips help to keep you safe in South America, but you’ll also improve your overall experience whilst traveling.

• Aim for a Backpack of between 50-70L capacity.
• We recommend a daily budget of $20-30.
• Always use padlocks on bags when traveling between destinations.
• Pack your main backpack roughly 3/4 full.
• Avoid wearing Flashy Clothes and Accessories and carry an ultra safe money belt to avoid unnecessary displays of wealth.
• Check Visa requirements (they can vary per country and also where you’re from).
• Pick up some basic Spanish before you go.
• Be sure to research the differing Climates you’ll be facing (since there’s a huge variety in this massive continent).

Got travel insurance for South America?

3 Months Backpacking South America Route

Now we’ve covered some important points to know before, it’s time to dive into our 3 month South America Backpacking Route!

Colombia (14 Days)

The first stop on our great tour, Colombia is as spicy as it gets in this continent. You can easily fly into Bogotá from most continents around the world, which is the best place to start things off.

The capital is great for historical sightseeing, and you’ll want to climb up the mountain of Monserrate for the best views. After a few days in the capital, you can then take a short flight to the Caribbean coast, with Santa Marta the best hub for a stay.

Here you’ll find palm-fringed beaches perfect for some tanning and good times. You can also head on a multi-day trek into the mysterious Lost City , as well as to the remote region of The Guajira. We recommend staying in the Masaya Hostel when in Santa Marta.

From here you can head to Medellin to get to know more about the (real) past of Colombia, where you can even tour the former mansion of Pablo Escobar.

We recommend heading on this awesome tour , which includes breakfast and all transport. Onwards from Medellin, we’ll head to Cali for a more authentic experience in this diverse country. If you’re a keen Salsa dancer, then you must head to La Topa Tolondra!

Colombia Route Summary:

• Bogotá (2 Days)
• Santa Marta (5 Days)
• Medellin (4 Days)
• Cali (3 Days)

Other Special Mentions (Visit if you have more time):

• Isla San Andrés

Ecuador (10 Days)

Ecuador is our next stop on our South American journey, and is the overall best all-rounder. Despite being one of the smallest, it’s home to pretty much everything you’d experience on your journeys in this continent.

We’ll first cross the border from Pasto, and then into the capital of Quito. This high altitude city is home to some really stunning architecture, and you can also hike the nearby volcano of Cotopaxi too.

From here we’ll then take a bus over to the town of Baños. A forever popular spot among backpackers, this town is great for adrenaline enthusiasts, where you can sit on a swing at “the end of the world”, and also visit the mesmerising waterfall of Pailón del Diablo .

After a few days of exploring this mountainous region, we’ll then head over to the buzzing beachside town of Montañita , which lies on Ecuador’s Pacific Coast.

This town is awesome for a more relaxed pace of life (where you must try surfing at least once), whilst at the same time being home to a truly incredible nightlife scene.

Whilst here you’ll want to visit the nearby towns of Ayampe and Puerto Lopez, the latter being the jumping off point to the Isla de la Plata (a national park home to rare birds and penguins). Our favourite hostel in Montañita has to be the infamous Selina , with this one located right on the beach.

Ecuador Route Summary:

• Quito (4 Days)
• Baños (3 Days)
• Montañita (3 Days)

Peru (21 Days)

Now we head into the mysterious nation of Peru, home to many ancient ruins and also a variety of stunning landscapes. From Montañita we will head to nearby Guayaquil, and hop on a flight over to Lima (otherwise it’s 30 straight hours on a bus; George did this and doesn’t recommend it for those strict on time).

Lima is the cosmopolitan hub of Peru, and here you’ll find some really tasty dishes that are worth tucking into. You’ll want to explore the Costanera by bike, as well as visit Huaca Pucllana for your first taste of Inca ruins . From here we’ll fly over to Iquitos in the Amazon (there’s no other way we’re afraid!).

The most biodiverse region on the planet, Iquitos is a great jumping off point into the Amazon, where you can spot everything from pink dolphins to Jaguars along your jungle treks. We highly recommend this 3-Day Tour where you’ll explore the deep Amazon.

As well as swimming with Dolphins and fishing for Piranhas, you’ll also get to meet an indigenous tribe too After exploring Iquitos, we now head back to Lima, where we start heading south to the oasis haven of Huacachina . It’s the perfect place to go sandboarding, and we’ve found that two days is enough time here.

Our next stop is Arequipa , which is a beautiful city covered in white-washed buildings, with fiery volcanoes setting the backdrop . Whilst here you’ll want to explore the nearby Colca Canyon – which is the second deepest on earth!

After some off-road exploring, we now head to the legendary city of Cusco. We’ve planned 6 days here, given the sheer amount of things to and see.

These include visiting Machu Picchu (you can head here with this overnight tour ), exploring the Sacred Valley, hiking Rainbow Mountain as well as exploring the pretty city of Cusco itself.

Kokopelli is the best hostel for a stay here, and we’ll keep coming back for sure!

Lastly on our trip through Peru, we’ll make a stop off at Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca for a day – where you can visit the seriously impressive floating Uros Islands before crossing over into Bolivia.

Peru Route Summary:

• Lima (3 Days)
• Iquitos (4 Days)
• Huacachina (2 Days)
• Arequipa (5 Days)
• Cusco (6 Days)
• Puno (1 Day)
• Chachapoyas

Bolivia (16 Days)

Crossing Lake Titicaca over into Copacabana, we recommend making a stop over at Isla del Sol if it’s possible (there’s some really awesome views here).

You’ll also be able to enjoy the small city of Copacabana too, before making our way to La Paz. The Bolivian capital (well, one of them at least), La Paz is a thriving city perfect for a backpacker .

Here you’ll want to base yourself in the Wild Rover Hostel , which is conveniently located in the historic centre. As well as soaring the skies in La Paz’s very own “gondola metro” (as I like to call it), you can also visit the Witches Market as well as cycle down El Yungas (known as the world’s most dangerous road – not for the faint of heart).

If you want to cycle this route, then you’ll need to go with a reputable company. We recommend this highly-rated tour , which includes all equipment as well as a tasty lunch too.

From La Paz we then fly to Sucre – our next stop – given the bus takes quite a while. This city is similar to Arequipa, in that it’s full of beautiful white architecture and colonial buildings .

A must visit whilst here is a visit to the Parque Cretácico, which is home to various dinosaur footprints. After strolling around this friendly city, we’ll then head to Potosí, which is famous for its Cerro Rico mine . Unfortunately it has a more gruesome past, however you can tour these mines (ranked as one of the world’s most dangerous) whilst providing supplies to the workers inside.

Be sure to take your time, given Potosí is located at a dizzying altitude of 4090m. Finally we head to nearby Uyuni, and onto this legendary 3 day tour which takes us into Chile. Words really can’t do this region justice, and along the way you’ll see these incredible salt flats, as well as red lagoons, pink flamingos and some of the clearest skies in your life (perfect for stargazing).

Bolivia Route Summary:

• Copacabana (2 Days)
• La Paz (6 Days)
• Sucre (3 Days)
• Potosí (2 Days)
• Uyuni (3 Days)
• Rurrenabaque

Chile (14 Days)

Having arrived into Chile after an unforgettable (and pretty tiring) journey across the Altiplano, we’ll now stay in the small desert town of San Pedro de Atacama. Home to the driest desert on earth , there’s some tours here that are really worth doing, such as to the Geysers del Tatio as well as to the Valle de la Luna.

From San Pedro you’ll then head to nearby Calama to catch a flight over to Santiago, our next stop in Chile. The capital is full of history and sites , however the first thing you’ll want to do here is to head up to the Mirador on top of Cerro San Cristóbal for the best views.

Nearby Valparaíso is also worth a visit with its artsy streets and hills (usually we’d recommend staying there, but given our time we’ll only make a day trip there instead).

When in Santiago, we recommend staying in the Plaza de Armas Hostel in the historic centre, which is close to all of the top sights. Our next stop from here is Pucón, which is in Chile’s Lake District. The Villarrica volcano is a must see here, and for hikes you’re going to want to layer up (minus temperatures are for sure to be expected!).

Given Pucón is also situated on a lake, it’s a great place for water sports, and it even has a beach too. To round up our stint though Chile, we’ll then be heading to Torres del Paine, which is in the heart of Patagonia .

This ultimate region encompasses spiralling peaks and unforgettable hiking trails, and rightfully makes any South American bucket list. You’ll want to spend quite a few days here to really breathe it all in.

Those in nearby Calafate can head on this awesome day tour where you’ll explore the very best spots of this stunning national park

Chile Route Summary:

• San Pedro de Atacama (3 Days)
• Santiago (4 Days)
• Pucón (3 Days)
• Torres del Paine (5 Days)
• Antofagasta
• Valparaíso (stay here rather than visit as a day trip).

Argentina (21 Days)

Now we head into our last country on this South America travel route. As you many know, Argentina is a fiercely proud nation, which given everything here – it’s not hard to see why. We’ll first touch down in Ushuaia – the most southern point in all of South America .

This city is a glacial lovers’ paradise, and here you’ll feel like you’re in an entirely different continent than from that we’ve already explored. A must-visit here is the Isla de Martillo, which is home to an absolute tonne of penguins.

After a few days here, we’ll catch a short flight over to El Calafate. This city is most known for its proximity to the Perito Moreno Glacier , one of the largest and last of its kind in the world. We recommend this highly-rated tour of Perito Moreno , where you’ll get up and close with the glacier as well as having a cruise included too. It’s also a fantastic place for mountain hiking, where the nearby Parque Nacional Los Glaciares has many scenic routes.

From El Calafate we continue north again, and this time to Bariloche, which is known as the gateway into Argentina’s very own Lake District . This town is well known for its epic skiing, with the Catedral Alta being one of the most popular resorts. Exploring the nearby lakes is a must, as well as spending some time in the Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi.

Now our time in Patagonia ends as we head north to Mendoza. This city is located right next to the Andes, and as a result of its unique conditions, produces some of the best wines in the world .

You’ll want to head to Maipu Valley to sample some of the very best, where you can join a bike tour to ride between them. You’ll also want to head to the Mirador of Aconcagua for views of the tallest peak in all of South America.

We recommend staying in the Panda Hostel , which is right in Mendoza’s centre. From here we’ll take one last flight over to Buenos Aires, which is our final destination. Known for its steak and football fanatics , the capital is also home to lots of interesting sites including La Recoleta, Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes as well as the neighbourhood of La Boca.

You can also catch a Milonga in the streets too (which is a local, impromptu tango show). Quite a way to finish up our itinerary, for us Buenos Aires is a perfect ending to the whirlwind of a 3 months that we’ve just had!

Argentina Route Summary:

• Ushuaia (4 Days)
• El Calafate (5 Days)
• Bariloche (4 Days)
• Mendoza (4 Days)
• Buenos Aires (4 Days)

South America Travel Route FAQs

Having covered the entire route, you’ll probably be more than convinced to go! However you may still have a few more questions, so below we’ll answer some of your most burning queries about this South American route.

How much money do you need for backpacking South America?

This really depends on you as the traveller, however we do have some advice that can give you a good head-start . A daily budget for the countries of Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador and Colombia can be between $20-30, whilst you’ll need around $30-35 per day for Chile and Argentina. Of course be sure to factor in extra budget for your flights, buses and extra activities you plan to do here. Check out the best hostels in South America to be able to save money on accommadation.

Is Argentina cheaper than Chile?

Chile is by far the most expensive country in South America. Argentina is usually a close second, but given the current economic climate (during the time this was written in 2022), you’ll find Argentina is pretty cheap to travel right now!

What are the cheapest countries in South America?

The overall cheapest country to visit on this South American Route is Bolivia. You can still live well on a daily budget of as low as $20 , given accommodation and buses in this nation are ridiculously cheap. Peru and Ecuador are just behind Bolivia in terms of costs.

Which South American country is the safest?

South america backpacking route.

And that’s all for our backpacking route through South America.

This incredible region is full of unforgettable experiences, which range from epic sceneries to mysterious cultures and beyond .

In this guide we’ve covered our 3 month route through South America, covering Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina.

Along with our backpacking South America guide, bookmark this page before and during your travels, so you’ll always have a handy reference available.

👉🏽 P.S. If you’ve found this guide helpful, buy us a coffee here to say thanks! Or, support us by downloading our South America Travel Bible to get our best content.

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The most amazing 3 month southeast asia itinerary.

If you’re thinking of going on a backpacking adventure, Southeast Asia is a great choice. In fact, this fascinating region is a very popular choice for first-time backpackers, as well as avid adventurers. Coupled with the low cost of travel, incredible activities, and sights to offer everyone, you can’t go wrong. This sub-region boasts out of this world scenery, unique cultures, mouth-watering food, buzzin’ metropolitan cities, and heavenly tropical beaches. So, without further ado, let’s dive right into this 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary. We cover a whopping 8 countries, recommend the best route to take, how long to spend in each place, the must-see attractions, and give recommendations of where to stay.

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Northern Thailand (13 days)

Bangkok (3 days).

This Southeast Asia travel route starts in the heart of Thailand; Bangkok.

How to get to Bangkok: This itinerary kicks off in the hustle and bustle of Bangkok. Bangkok boasts a large international airport, making it super easy and convenient for tourists to find cheap flights from places such as Europe or the USA. We recommend checking Skyscanner for the best deals and prices.

Top attractions:

The Grand Palace Wat Arun Shopping at Chatuchak Market Party on Khao San Road Taling Chan Floating Market Wat Samphan Temple (Pink Dragon)

Where to stay in Bangkok: Comfy Bed Hostel for a dorm, or Amarin Inn for a budget private room.

Ayutthaya (2 days)

How to get to Ayutthaya: 2-hour minivan from Moh Chit BTS Station in Bangkok. The cost is 50 Baht ($1.65). Or take a tour from Bangkok .

Ancient town Cycle ride around the temple complex

Where to stay in Ayutthaya: A cute boathouse with cheap double rooms, Ayutthaya Riverside House.

Chiang Mai (3 days)

How to get to Chiang Mai: A comfy 9-hour VIP bus for $24.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple Take a Thai cooking class Doi Inthanon National Park Eat at the night markets or take a food course and tour Go water crazy at the Songkran festival (April)

Where to stay in Chiang Mai: Red Brick Guesthouse for a dorm room

Pai ( 3 days)

How to get to Pai: Take a 3 hours mini-van ride for $6

Explore on a scooter Pai Canyon Pam Bok Waterfall Love Strawberry Farm Land Split Bamboo Bridge

Where to stay in Pai: Pai Loess Resort for a private double room

Chiang Rai ( 2 days)

How to get to Chiang Rai: 7.5 hours mini-van journey , costing $18

White Temple Black House Tea plantations Golden Triangle House of opium

Where to stay in Chiang Rai: Busket Hostel for a cheap modern dorm

For a more detailed Thailand backpacking guide, don’t miss this post!

Laos (8 days)

Luang prabang (3 days).

How to get to Luang Prabang: 2-day slow boat from Chiang Rai

Kuang Si Waterfalls Watch the morning Tak Bat Phousi Hill & Temple Night market Late-night bowling alley

Where to stay in Luang Prabang: Sok Dee Guesthouse for a cheap cosy double room

Vang Vieng (3 days)

How to get to Vang Vieng: 5-hour mini-van ride for $16

Tubing on the Nam Song River Blue Lagoon Phu Kham Cave

Where to stay in Vang Vieng: Faraway Suites for either a dorm room or a private room

Vientiane (2 days)

How to get to Vientiane: 4-hour bus that costs $9

Explore the city by bicycle Buddha Park COPE Museum

Where to stay in Vientiane: My Box Hostel & Cafe , great value for money dorm rooms

Don’t forget to check out our ultimate 2-week Laos itinerary here!

Vietnam (20 days)

Hanoi (3 days).

How to get to Hanoi: 22-hour sleeper bus that costs $32. This is a super long journey so you may prefer to fly instead.

Hoan Kiem Lake St. Joseph’s Cathedral Hoa Lo Prison Train Street Take a food tour Bia Hoi Street Hanoi Night Market Drink egg coffee at the Note Coffee shop

Where to stay in Hanoi: Nexy Hostel for a super clean, modern dorm

For more things to do in Hanoi at night, don’t miss this post!

Ha Long Bay (2 days)

How to get to Ha Long Bay: Scheduled tour from Hanoi

Limestone islands Kayaking

Where to stay in Ha Long Bay: On the boat.

Sapa (3 days)

How to get to Sapa: 6-hour bus for $12

Ride the Fansipan cable car Go on a trek through the rice terraces Meet H’Mong tribes Drink at the H’Mong Sisters

Where to stay in Sapa: Sapa Village Hotel for a modern stay overlooking the mountains

Ninh Binh (2 days)

How to get to Ninh Binh: 9-hour bus for $17

Cycle through rice paddies Eat at Chookies Hang Mua Caves Tang An boat ride Bich Dong Pagoda

Where to stay in Ninh Binh: Amira Homestay for a cosy stay & free bicycle rental

Hue (2 days)

How to get to Hue: 11-hour bus for $14

Old Citadel Abandoned water park Thien Mu Pagoda

Where to stay in Hue: Bon Ami Hostel  for cheap private rooms in a central location

Hoi An (4 days)

How to get to Hoi An: Ride the Hai Van Pass

Cycle around the old town Take a boat ride Shop for lanterns Stroll around the rice paddies Go shopping for lanterns Take a day trip to Ba Na Hills Eat Cao Lao noodles

Where to stay in Hoi An: The Serendipity Hostel for a dorm bed, or Aroma Homestay & Spa for a budget private room.

For a more detailed Hoi An guide, click here!

Dalat (3 days)

How to get to Dalat: 14-hour sleeper bus for $17

Drive around the mountains on a scooter Sip coffee by the romantic lake Go canyoning Crazy House The Clay Tunnel Eat Dalat Pizza

Where to stay in Dalat: Dalat Backpackers Hostel for a social dorm or private room, or Original Kens Backpacker Hostel for a more relaxed vibe

Don’t miss this amazing detailed Dalat itinerary !

Ho Chi Minh City (3 days)

How to get to Ho Chi Minh City: 7-hour bus for $22

Bui Vien drinking street Ben Thanh Market Saigon Notre Dame & Post Office War Remnants Museum Bitexco Tower Half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels Day trip to the Mekong Delta

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City: Galaxy Capsule Hotel for a modern stay in the heart of the city

For a more detailed Vietnam itinerary, make sure to check out this awesome 3-week in Vietnam itinerary. Or, click here for a super detailed Vietnam travel guide .

Cambodia (9 days)

Phnom penh (2 days).

How to get to Phnom Penh: 6-hour bus for $12

The Killing Fields S21 Prison Royal Palace Silk tour at Angkor Artisans

Where to stay in Phnom Penh: Golden Boat 72 Guesthouse for a cheap, quiet retreat

Kampot (3 days)

How to get to Kampot: 3.5-hour mini-van for $9

Ride a scooter up Bokor Mountain Abandoned casino Kep fishing town Pepper farm Fireflies boat tour

Where to stay in Kampot: Marany Guesthouse for a private double room

Siem Reap (4 days)

How to get to Siem Reap: Take a bus back to Phnom Penh , which takes 3.5 hours and costs $9. You can either stay one night in Phnom Penh or if you leave early enough, take another direct minivan from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap . It takes 6 hours and costs $10.

Take a tuk-tuk tour of Angkor Wat and the other ancient temples Siem Reap Silk Farm Pub Street

Where to stay in Siem Reap: Pub Hostel for a social vibe with choices of dorms or private rooms

If you need a more in-depth itinerary for Cambodia, don’t forget to check out our backpacking Cambodia guide! Also, don’t forget to check if a Cambodia visa on arrival is available for your nationality or not.

Southern Thailand (10 days)

Bangkok (1 day).

How to get to Bangkok: 9-hour bus for $24

Koh Phangan (4 days)

How to get to Koh Phangan: From Bangkok, you will need to take an overnight bus and ferry. You can read in more detail about the trip here.

Thong Sala Night Market Phaeng Waterfall Paradise Waterfall Lazy beach days Explore by scooter

Where to stay in Koh Phangan: Backpackers Hacienda for a cheap stay with a pool overlooking the beach

Krabi (3 days)

How to get to Krabi: 6-hour high-speed ferry and bus that costs $18

Railay Beach Tonsai Beach Tiger Temple Emerald Pool

Where to stay in Krabi: J Hotel for a cheap double room with balconies overlooking the sea

Phuket (2 days)

How to get to Phuket: 3-hour mini-van costing $15

Beach days Bangala Road

Where to stay in Phuket: Bed Hostel for a social atmosphere and a choice of a dorm bed or private twin room

Malaysia (14 days)

Penang (5 days).

How to get to Penang: Take a direct flight from Phuket

Ride a bicycle around the street art Drink beer at the Elbow Corner Eat Wan Tan Mee Chew Jetty Kek Lo Si Temple Kapitan Keling Mosque

Where to stay in Penang: Rainbow House for a quiet stay, or Drippin’ Dragon Hostel for a social vibe & pool.

For a more detailed post on things to do in Penang at night , make sure to check out this awesome post!

Cameron Highlands (3 days)

How to get to Cameron Highlands: 4.5-hour bus for $10

Tea plantations Strawberry farm Parks

Where to stay in Cameron Highlands: Traveller Bunker Hostel for a range of dorms & a lively atmosphere

Kuala Lumpur (4 days)

How to get to Kuala Lumpur: 4.5-hour bus for $11

Petronas Towers KLCC Park China Town Little India Merdeka Square National Mosque Bukit Bintang

Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur: Big M Hotel for affordable, modern private rooms, or Dorms KL 2 for cheap but super clean dorm beds.

If you only have 2 days spare for Kuala Lumpur, make sure to check out this ultimate Kuala Lumpur itinerary!

Melaka(2 days)

How to get to Melaka: 2-hour bus for $5

UNESCO town Dutch Square Ride a funky tri-shaw Hang out at the mall

Where to stay in Melaka: The Pillohouzzze for dorms and private rooms

For a more detailed itinerary, make sure to check out our backpacking Malaysia post!

Singapore (2 days)

How to get to Singapore: 4-hour bus for $8

Marina Bay Sands Gardens by the Bay Little India China Town Sentosa Island Universal Studios

Where to stay in Singapore: OSS Backpackers Hostel for a dorm bed, or Hotel Classic by Venue for a cheap double room

Click here for a more detailed Singapore itinerary!

Indonesia (9 days)

Yogyakarta (4 days).

How to get to Yogyakarta: Fly from either Singapore or Kuala Lumpur. If you choose to fly from Kuala Lumpur, you can take a direct 5-hour bus for $17 from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur.

Borobudur Temple Prambanan Temple Malioboro Market Taman Sari Rent a motorbike & ride in the mountains Eat gudeg

Where to stay in Yogyakarta: The Journey Hotel for budget stylish private rooms

You can read our full Yogyakarta itinerary here!

Bali (5 days)

How to get to Bali: Take a flight from Yogyakarta

Visit the rice terraces Relax on the beaches Explore waterfall after waterfall Go temple hopping Snorkelling on Gili T Party in Kuta

Where to stay in Bali: Grandmas Hotel for a cheap relaxing stay

Read a more detailed Indonesia itinerary here!

Myanmar (11 days)

Yangon( 2 days).

How to get to Yangon: Take a flight from Bali

Shwedagon Pagoda Ride the circular train Eat on 19th Street Watch a movie with the locals

Where to stay in Yangon: Agga Youth Hostel is one of the few properties that offer dorm beds. They also have private rooms too.

Bagan (3 days)

How to get to Bagan: Take a 10-hour night bus for $10

Watch sunrise and sunset over the thousands of ancient temples Get around by electric motorbike Jasmine Lacquer Ware Factory

Where to stay in Bagan: Shwe Na Di Guesthouse for a cheap homely guest house

Mandalay (2 days)

How to get to Mandalay: Take a 5.5-hour bus for $6

Mandalay Hill U Bein Bridge Hsinbyume Pagoda Old British Fort Watch the local football team, Yadanarbon

Where to stay in Mandalay: Hotel 82 for a cheap but heavenly stay

Inle Lake (4 days)

How to get to Inle Lake: 9-hour bus for $12

Take a tour of In le Lake Marvel at the floating villages Visit a silverware factory Visit a boat-making factory Explore the village by bicycle

Where to stay in Inle Lake: Silver Lake Hotel for a private double room

Don’t miss our ultimate Myanmar backpacking guide!

Your 3 month Southeast Asia travel route has come to an end

Phew! What an epic 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary . From Inle Lake, you can take a bus back to Yangon. From Yangon, you can either try to find cheap flights back home. However, we recommend heading back to Bangkok to fly from there, as international flights tend to be much cheaper.

How much does it cost to travel to Southeast Asia for 3 months?

This is a hotly debated topic among backpackers. One would proudly announce you can get by on as little as $15 a day, and one would argue that you would easily need $50. The truth is, is everyone is different, and so is their travel style. However, we won’t leave you hangin’. We will give you our recommendation on how much to budget for this 3-month Southeast Asia itinerary. Just remember, your travel style could be totally different from ours, so take this with a pinch of salt and judge your budget according to your preferences.

Our 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary budget

From our previous travels in Southeast Asia and living in Vietnam for 4 years, we would personally budget $50 per day for the two of us. Clean modern dorm rooms average $7 per night, whilst private double rooms average $12. Furthermore, local food in this region is super cheap and convenient, with almost every city and town serving up the most delicious meals from a cart on the market or the side of the road. You can easily eat three square meals a day for less than $10. In terms of activities, if you plan, you can do lots of exciting things for free. Most of the time, there is no need to pre-book tours! Getting around is made easy too, with plenty of scooter rentals, and motorbike taxi apps such as Grab.

Additional costs to consider

Further to your daily budget for your Southeast Asia trip, you will need to factor in the cost of flights and any visas you may need. Again, this is just our personal opinion of how much a reasonable budget for this itinerary is. If you want to go out partying every night, tuck into Western food, or sit back and relax in the comfort of air-conditioned taxis, you will, of course, need to increase your budget.

Looking for what to pack? Check out this essential Southeast Asia packing list !

Essential resources for this 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary

Travel Insurance – No matter whether you’re travelling around Asia for 3 months or just a week, it’s a good idea to make sure you’re covered for any accidents or losses. We spent days and weeks searching for insurance, but most insurers would not allow us to take out a policy as we were already abroad. Our personal choice is Safteywing . You can opt for automatic monthly payments, just like a subscription. More importantly, it is available in 180 countries and can be purchased whilst already travelling. There is no cap on the duration of travel.

Visa – Before you travel to any country, make sure to check if you need a visa. iVisa is a fantastic website that is super easy and quick to use. Just type in where you are from. and where you are going. to check if you need a visa. If you do, you can quickly make an application online.

Accommodation – Booking.com is our go-to when looking to pre-book accommodation online. Booking.com tend to almost always have the best rates and a FREE cancellation policy for most properties.

Overland transport – Our go-to website for overland transport is Bookaway . Bookaway offers multiple forms of transport, from buses, mini-vans, trains, and ferries. The routes on offer are extensive and certainly cover most of the backpacker trails. Bookaway works a little like Skyscanner but for overland transport. You will find plenty of transport options from a range of companies. All you simply need to do is book online and receive your ticket by email. The email will contain essential information, such as where the bus leaves from and departure and arrival times.

Tours & Activities – If you want to book tours and activities online, make sure to check out Get Your Guide . Get Your Guide takes the stress out of booking activities abroad. You will also find a range of benefits, such as skip-the-line passes, lunch included in your tours, and so much more.

Travel tips ebook -Before you head off on your adventure, make sure to download our free ebook. It has a whopping 109 budget travel tips to help you make your hard-earned cash go further. Click here to download your FREE ebook.

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2 thoughts on “ The Most Amazing 3 Month Southeast Asia Itinerary ”

That s a great summary of your trip! How long did it take by boat to get to Luang Prabang? and similarly how long did it take to get to Hoi An? I d love to know the time it took with public transportation ??

Hi, Thanks for the comment. The slow boat to Luang Prabang takes 2 days. We have an entire post on it 🙂 check it out.

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A Perfect Southeast Asia Itinerary – 3 Months on the Banana Pancake Trail

The perfect Southeast Asia itinerary for 3 months of backpacking and travel is a tough trip to plan as the “perfect” route highly dependent on you, your tastes, and what you enjoy most in your travel experiences. 

With so many countries, so many options for proceeding through them, and so many sites and experiences that you absolutely must experience, it can be a pain crafting your perfect trip . Trust me; I know what you’re feeling.  During my first trip through Southeast Asia, I pretty much just wandered with no timeline, experiencing each place as it came and deciding the next city of my trip just a couple days before departure.  Though this is a wonderful way to travel, not everyone has an unlimited amount of time to wander the way I did.    Of course, we all still want to experience Asia’s best, even with limited timelines .

Lucky for you, I discovered all of the highlights of Southeast Asia not to be missed.  With this perected Southeast Asia Itinerary 3 Months will be more than enough to discover the best of Southeast Asia. These highlights add up to a list of unique experiences suited to specific “types” of travelers (street food, surfing, trekking, partying, safaris, motorbiking, etc.) and patched them together into a “create your own adventure” itinerary.

Don’t fret about creating that perfect SEA backpacking trip.  In this post, we’ll share the perfect core itinerary for backpacking Southeast Asia for three months. We’ll then share how to adapt the perfect Southeast itinerary to your specific tastes by recommending a couple of extra countries focused on specific adventures and experiences.  The result – the perfect Southeast Asia travel itinerary for you .

MY EXPERIENCE IN SOUTHEAST ASIA ON THE BANANA PANCAKE TRAIL

Three years ago, I quit my job, packed my things, and set out to treat myself to a year of discovery wandering the world.  Though I had already been to the Middle East, South America, and Europe, a close friend still recommended Southeast Asia and, what he called, the “Banana Pancake Trail” as the best starter for travel around the world.

He was absolutely right.

At his recommendation, I booked a one-way flight to Thailand and a rough plan to travel to the Thai islands and find a deserted beach with a beach hut to gather myself for the trip to come.  However, the beauty of experiencing Southeast Asia is that the “Banana Pancake Trail” already has a plan for you.

By the end of my first night in Bangkok (where I first arrived), my plan for Southeast Asia had been scrapped, I found a travel buddy, and the adventures were in full swing.

The following day, we decided to go to the north’s Chiang Mai hill country, exploring and wandering as our crew grew from 2 members to 10.  The adventures that followed over the next four months were more than I could have planned, asked for, or dreamed.

The Banana Pancake trail’s momentum took us tasting, exploring, and partying with like-minded travelers in Thailand.  We continued to experience history, culture, and adventure in Vietnam.  Surprisingly, Vietnam turned out to be one of the richest destinations of all my travels, suitable for any age.  We continued by cruising the Ho Chi Minh trail by motorbike “moto-packing” on 125cc Vietnam and made motorcycles up to China and down through Laos, ultimately experiencing places that hadn’t seen people like us in decades.  Through Cambodia, we continued exploring ancient kingdoms and Asian castles that are rightly called “wonders of the world.” 

Then, we all parted ways, but my adventure continued.

I trekked to floating cities and wandered through lost kingdoms and thousands of Pagodas in Myanmar.  I trekked alone to the highest mountain in the world, Everest, in the peaceful quiet of Nepal.  I shared bananas with a wild elephant alone in Sri Lanka. I tackled fears and surfed waves taller than me in Bali. And I swam with giants, diving breathlessly below whale sharks in the Philippines.

All of this happened with no plan, with ease, and on a budget.

My experience was genuine but far from uncommon for backpackers on the Banana Pancake Trail.

I highly recommend the experience.

After al of this firsthand experience bouncing around the best of Asia, how long is the perfect Southeast Asia Itinerary? 3 Months.  Yup.  You guessed it.

Now that we have your interest let’s explore how you, too, can experience the Banana Pancake Trail with this Southeast Asia Itinerary for three months of mind-blowing travel and experiences.

THE “ADVENTURE FIRST” SOUTHEAST ASIA ITINERARY FOR 3 MONTHS

To maximize your enojoyment and experience, here is a Southeast itinerary for 3 months that will help you see more than you ever thought possible.  This itinerary helps you start with adventures and end with countries specific to your favorite travel experiences.

• Weeks 1 to 3: Vietnam
• Weeks 4 to 5: Laos 
• Week 6: Cambodia
• Weeks 7 to 9: Thailand
• Weeks 10 and 11: Additional Country #1
• Weeks 12 and 13: Additional Country #2
• Additional Countries Recommended: Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Bali (Indonesia), The Philippines, Nepal

WHAT IS THE “ADVENTURE FIRST” ITINERARY, AND WHY SHOULD YOU DO IT?

The first itinerary starts you off in Vietnam, arguably the new hotspot for backpacking (dethroning Thailand). Thailand’s long north to south stretch of traveler trail is filled with likeminded backpackers and travelers that are bussing and “moto-packing” between cities to hike, climb, party, and explore in a very adventurous way.

Followed up Vietnam with even more rural and adventurous Laos for jungle trekking and outdoor adventures, and your trip will be front-loaded with adventurous memories.

Then, proceeded through the more relaxed and slower-paced Cambodia sites on to the beaches, rice fields, and street food experiences of Thailand before moving on to the “name your own adventure” portion of your itinerary.

THE “PLEASURE FIRST” SOUTHEAST ASIA ITINERARY FOR 3 MONTHS

For those that need to start their travels with a chance to recharge and refresh, this itinerary for three months in Southeast Asia takes you through the peaceful pleasures of the Banana Pancake Trail before introducing its adventures.

• Weeks 1 to 3: Thailand
• Weeks 6 to 8: Vietnam
• Week 9: Cambodia

WHAT IS THE “PLEASURE FIRST” ITINERARY, AND WHY SHOULD YOU DO IT?

Thailand is renowned for its beaches, street food, traditional Thai massages, and how easily new travelers can experience the country.  If you’re escaping the world and need to “decompress” to get yourself into the travel mood, “the Thailand first itinerary” is the one you want to roll with.

Thailand is the original backpacker paradise offering a slower-paced experience (if you want it to be) with all of its highlights catering to the senses and enjoyment.  In Bangkok, street food and traditional Thai massage rejuvenate you and awaken the senses.  In the northern portion of the itinerary, in Chiang Mai and Pai, temples, rice fields, and pleasant company pull you into a state of peace.

In the southern portion of the Thailand itinerary, the beautiful beaches and countless islands keep you in that state of pleasure and relaxation with the option of all-night parties with fellow travelers.

If the idea of a cottage on the beach or serene rice field is exactly what you need right now, start with Thailand first, continue through Laos, on to the adventures of Vietnam and the ruins and history of Cambodia.  Finally, end your itinerary with one or two of the “additional countries” listed below that speaks to your unique travel tastes.

THE “OTHER COUNTRIES” I RECOMMEND IN SOUTH ASIA

The four core countries on the “Banana Pancake Trail,” Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos , are all amazing experiences that nearly any traveler can appreciate.  However, there is beauty, pleasure, and adventure strewn across Southeast Asia to experience far beyond just these four countries.

Of the seven “optional countries” in South Asia, I recommend adding on at least one or two to the end of your trip.  Each of these extra countries has an irreplaceable theme or experience that perfectly fits a certain type of travel urge.

The five additional countries to consider adding to your Southeast Asia backpacking trip are:

• Myanmar : Remnants of an ancient empire with thousands of temples and lake treks in the backdrop of a recently opened country
• Sri Lanka : The Garden of Eden, wild animals, ruins of ancient kingdoms, hiking, and surfing for all levels
• Bali, Indonesia : A true paradise with rice fields, beaches, hipster backpacker havens and a spiritual backdrop
• The Philippines : A true water world of those of islands and the most pristine water and beaches I’ve ever seen – perfect for divers, free divers, snorkelers, and water children
• Nepal : A mecca for trekking, rural mountain cultures (Sherpa) and home to the tallest mountain in the world

SOUTHEAST ASIA HIGHLIGHTS NOT TO BE MISSED

As you adapt this itinerary for your travel preferences, spend more time in places that offer what you love and don’t be scared to skip places that don’t offer anything that interests you.  Your time and money is precious, treat it as such.

Lucky for us, and planning, each country in Southeast Asia naturally has a specific theme, experience, or adventure that it offers better than any other destination in the world.  Use the list of SE Asia highlights

SOUTHEAST ASIA HIGHLIGHT EXPERIENCES + WHERE TO FIND THEM

• Street Food: Thailand, Vietnam
• Ancient Cities and Ancient Ruins: Angkor Wat (Cambodia), Pagan (Myanmar), Polonnaruwa (Sri Lanka)
• Animal Experiences: Sri Lanka
• Diving Adventures: Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand
• Surf Adventures: Bali, Sri Lanka
• Trekking: Nepal, Myanmar, Indonesia
• Wild Motorbiking Adventures: Vietnam, Laos – mini-adventures in Thailand and Bali
• Wild Outdoor and Rural Experiences: Laos

WHY IS THE BANANA PANCAKE TRAIL A PERFECT TRAVEL ADVENTURE?

This route through southeast asia offers every sight, taste, and experience you want from a good travel adventure, all for cheap and easily navigated..

There are many other backpacking routes through the world:

• The Gringo Trail **
• The Balkan Walk **
• The Arabian Trail **
• and more…

However, the Banana Pancake Trail through Southeast Asia is one of the best, cheapest, and easiest, making it perfect for first-time travelers.

THE BANANA PANCAKE TRAIL IN SOUTHEAST ASIA IS THE BEST FOR NEW AND BUDGET TRAVELERS.  HERE’S WHY…

Wherever you travel to in Southeast Asia you’ll always find these amazing benefits:

• Cheap Cost of Travel
• Great Travel Infrastructure
• Variety in the Adventures
• Several exotic cultures in an easily navigated experience
• Fantastic Food Experiences
• Boundless pleasures suitable for all types of travelers

Cheap Cost of Travel: $15 to $35 per day, with cheap intercity/intercountry buses and budget airlines

Great Travel Infrastructure: From the cheap yet extremely comfortable hostels to the easily and cheaply booked buses, rail, and trains, navigating Southeast Asia on a budget is very easy and convenient

Variety in the Adventures: Day trips by boat, motorbiking around an entire country, swimming in empty bays with glowing plankton, trekking, food adventures, diving, surfing, and so much more.  Few other regions of the world offer such a variety of adventures in such a small area for such a low price.

Several exotic cultures in an easily navigated experience: Though westerners may think of Southeast Asian countries as all the same, each country on “the trail” has its own very unique culture and highlight experience.   This variety accents the overall travel experience and opens the mind, all presented in a way that isn’t too shocking for even newbie travelers.

Food Experiences: Southeast Asia – specifically Thailand – has one of the most robust food scenes globally.  The street food scene of Thailand boasts food carts with Michelin stars, and Bali is the peak of “hipster fusion,” creating an adventure within an adventure for foodies on the road.

Pleasures: From traditional massages to the most beautiful beaches in the world with sunsets on beanbags with coconuts, in Southeast Asia, there is always a new (or old reliable) pleasure around the corner to soothe the senses

THE PERFECT SOUTHEAST ASIA ITINERARY FOR 3 MONTHS

The beauty of the Banana Pancake trail, for old and new travelers alike, is how well the tourism and travel infrastructure is built out and well defined the “highlights” are for each location.

Thanks to this well defined and supported travel route, choosing the right cities to visit – that deliver experiences worth your precious time and energy – traveling between them are easy.

The following itinerary of countries and cities hits the irreplaceable highlights of the region. It flows in such a way that you will be able to cheaply and easily travel to your next stop while bumping into familiar friends along the way.

Note: This itinerary is the “Adventure First” itinerary.  To prioritize relaxation and pleasure, make the same city stops, but placing Thailand first

OVERVIEW OF THE PERFECT BANANA PANCAKE TRAIL ITINERARY

1.     vietnam (3 weeks).

• Ho Chi Minh City (2 Days): A big, bustling city with 3 centuries-old – Essential Ho Chi Minh City Experiences –   Ben Thanh Market , touring the Cu Chi Tunnels from the Vietnam War, city tour by motorbike** , free walking tour**, countryside bike tour
• Dalat (2 Days): Vietnam’s city of eternal spring with amazing architecture and a mountain backdrop – Essential Dalat Experiences – Canyoning tour, a coffee experience with a trip to a plantation and several cafes, “chase clouds” in Trai Mat, visit Truc Lam Buddhist Temple, visit Elephant Waterfall, visit Maze Bar Dalat (100 roofs café).
• Da Nang (1-2 Days): Another big city offering typical tourist delights – Essential Experiences – Visit Ba Na Hill & Golden bridge, ride the dragon bridge by motorbike, explore the nightlife, and plenty of great restaurants
• Motorbike the Hai Van Pass from Da Nang to Hoi An (2-hour ride): A straight of coastal mountain highway with beautiful, peaceful ocean views for the entire stretch, perfect for two-wheeled adventures and open-air Jeeps
• Hoi An (2 Days): A beautiful UNESCO World Heritage City and one of the most well-preserved Southeast Asia trading ports dating back to the 1400s. Hanoi artfully blends local and foreign influences into architecture, food, and experience – Essential Experiences – Hoi An Central Market, wander Hoi An Old Town, plenty of food adventures, walking across “Japanese Bridge,” get some tailor-made suits or clothes for fun, take a cooking class, grab a beer by the Thu Bon River on itty bitty plastic chairs, motorbike to the Marble Mountains, Hoi An Night Market
• Hanoi (3 Days): Charming and heavily influenced by French architecture and food.  Wonderful for relaxing while being a gateway to the more beautiful north of Vietnam – Essential Experiences – Hanoi Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake + Legend, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hanoi Hilton tour (Hoa Lo Prison) Pho, Egg coffee at Café Pho Co overlooking the legendary Hoan Kiem lake, street food tour, shop for potentially counterfeit outdoor and adventure gear/clothing (“Made In Vietnam” store), Phung Hung Mural Street, Dong Xuan Market
• Essential Side Trips from Hanoi: Ha Long Bay (2 Days), Sapa (2 days), Ha Giang Loop (4 Days),  Ba Be (2 Days), Ninh Binh

TIP: From here on the Vietnam itinerary, continue on to northern Vietnam as the often skipped north has what I would argue to be the most beautiful landscapes and experiences in Vietnam

2.      LAOS (2 WEEKS)

• Luang Prabang (3 Days): Kuang Si Waterfalls, countless Buddhist temples, 
• Vang Vieng (3 Days): Tubing or kayaking the Nan Song River (with booze and friends), dense jungle day hikes – both of these are only possible outside of monsoon season
• Vientiane (3 Days): Sunset by the river with the evening market and experiencing Laos local life, visit the COPE Center (Vietnam War in Laos history)
• Optional: “Don Det” 4000 Islands in Si Phan Don (if traveling by motorbike to Cambodia): to float, wander, and relax
• Optional: Motorbike Thakek Loop en route to 4000 Islands
• Optional: Gibbon Experience** ziplining through the jungle canopy in Nam Kan National park

3.      CAMBODIA (1 WEEK)

• Phnom Penh (1 Day): S-21 Genocide Museum, shoot big guns, temples (Wat Phnom), a river cruise on the Mekong
• Siem Reap/Angkor Wat (2 Days): Angkor Wat by tuk tuk at sunrise, night market experiences of The Lane + Pub Street
• Optional (2-3 Days): Sihanoukville to Koh Rong and Koh Ron Samleon island for beautiful beaches and phosphorescent plankton
• Optional – Kampot: A low key town where backpackers enjoy riverside cocktails and food, rent scooters to cruise the hills nearby

4.      THAILAND (3 WEEKS)

• Chiang Mai (3 Days):   Walking tour of Old Town Chiang Mai, Temples, Old Town and Nimman Street Food Night Markets, Thai Massags, a Thai cooking class,
• Pai (2-3 Days): Cruise the hills of Pai by motorbike, and hike a beautiful Pai Canyon hike by sunset. cave tours. By Street food at the Pai Night Market by night
• Bangkok (3 to 5 Days): Party on Khao San Road, street food, Bangkok floating market, Chao Praya River area and ancient royal district, the Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Pho temple
• Krabi / Railay (3 Days): Railay Beach, the towering Tiger Cave Temple (+1,237 steps), Soi RCA, Ao Nang Night Market & street food, Emerald Pool and hot spring  waterfalls, jungle trek through Khao Sak National Park, cave swingat Hollow Mountain
• Ko Phi Phi (2-3 Days): Maya bay day trip, boat tour between the islands, lots of beach time, or consider Ko Lanta for a more peaceful experience as Ko Phi Phi tends to be a party island
• Koh Tao (2-3 Days): Motorbike, cruise, and snorkel between beaches, SCUBA dive certification, Ko Tao pub crawl, sunset at Mango Bay, Love Koh Tao Viewpoint Café for coffee.
• Ko Pha Ngan (2-3 Days): Full Moon Party ( Full Moon Party calendar here for 2020 + 2021 ), half-moon beach party, wander between beaches andwaterfalls,

5. ADDITIONAL COUNTRY OF YOUR CHOOSING #1 (2 WEEKS)

Choose an additional country specializing in something you love, based on our list of additional recommended countries .  Choose two shorter ones, or just one country if a 3+ weeks itinerary is required.

6. ADDITIONAL COUNTRY OF YOUR CHOOSING #2 (2 WEEKS)

Choose a second additional country that specializes in something you love, based on our list of additional recommended countries

A Tip on itineraries: Prioritize the sites and adventures that are “musts” for you, and from there, don’t stick to a strict itinerary abiding by the days recommended.  Stay in each city as long as you’re vibing with that particular city. Don’t feel pressured to book accommodations, transport, or excursions far in advance as there will likely always be a suitable option available.  Leaving that room for flexibility in your adventures is invaluable.

A Note on “Days per Destination” in this itinerary: Each destination has a 2 to 3-day buffer, allowing you to stay longer if you are enjoying a place more than normal.  On the other hand, if you arrive in a place and you’ve either 1) quickly completed all of the experiences or 2) simply don’t like it, I highly recommend proceeding onward to create extra time for your favorite places that pop up in the itinerary.

THE PERFECT SOUTHEAST ASIA ITINERARY FOR 3 MONTHS IN-DEPTH

• Vietnam (3 Weeks)
• Laos (2 Weeks )
• Cambodia (1 Week)
• Thailand (3 Weeks)
• Additional Countries 1 and 2 (We offer our favorite suggestions below)

VIETNAM ITINERARY FOR 3 WEEKS

Vietnam is a cheap, beautiful, and adventure packed country that is arguably the best place in Southeast Asia for backpackers – old and new. 

Whereas Thailand was once the “go-to” Southeast Asia travel destination, Vietnam is now single easiest, most entertaining, and most economical destination in SEA. 

THE TOP 5 REASONS WHY VIETNAM IS AN EXCELLENT DESTINATION:

• A deep, unadulterated cultural experience: food, experiencing Vietnamese daily life, and finding tourist-free locales
• Amazing adventure opportunities : Motorbiking the entire country, canyoning, trekking
• Amazing beauty and landscapes: “Floating islands”, Patagonia-esque mountains, beautiful beaches, jungles, canyons, rice fields and more
• Making new backpacker friends on the backpacker trail is insanely easy
• Great transportation infrastructure makes getting around easy and cheap and tons of cheap yet comfortable lodging in every city (~$5 to ~$25 USD per night) keep travel cheap

VIETNAM HIGHLIGHTS

• Motorbiking the length of the country, the Ha Giang Loop, and the Ho Chi Minh Trail
• The Hanoi experience: Heavy French influence in Asia
• Beautiful Northern hill country: rice fields, amazing views, and a great cultural experience (Sapa & North)
• Ha Long Bay and the “Castaway” experience
• Plenty of friendly backpackers and travelers to befriend

 OVERALL RATING FOR VIETNAM

• Tourist Rating: 8/10 – Something for everyone and travel options to fit all tastes
• Adventure Rating: 9/10 – Motorbiking, trekking, and adventure sports to fit all types
• Backpacker Travel Rating: 9/10 – Cheap, fun, social, and easy to travel. The new “it’” destination

 THE VIETNAM ITINERARY: 3 WEEKS

With this near perfect Vietnam itinerary, 3 weeks will be enough to experience the best and most unique of Vietnam while experiencing the food, culture, amazing landscapes, and adventures you’ll find few other places in the world

• Ho Chi Minh City (2 Days)
• Dalat (2 Days)
• Da Nang (1-2 Days)
• Motorbike the Hai Van Pass from Da Nang to Hoi An (2 Hours)
• Hoi An (2 Days)
• Hanoi (3 Days)
• Ha Long Bay (2 Days) or Ha Long Bay Castaway Experience (2 Days)
• Sapa tour and ricefields trek (2 Days)
• Ha Giang Loop – solo by motorbike or via tour (4 Days)
• Ba Be National Park (2 Days)

HO CHI MINH CITY (2 DAYS )

The capital of Vietnam is big and bustling but proceed quickly to other, better adventures throughout Vietnam

TOP EXPERIENCES IN HO CHI MINH CITY

• 3 centuries-old Ben Thanh Market
• touring the Cu Chi Tunnels from the Vietnam War
• City tour by motorbike: Bookable through most hostels
• One of the many free walking tours in Ho Chi Minh City
• countryside bike tour

WHERE TO STAY IN HO CHI MINH CITY

• Hideout Hostel
• Airbnb for a more private yet economical option

DALAT (2 DAYS)

Vietnam’s city of eternal spring with amazing architecture and a mountain backdrop

TOP EXPERIENCES IN DALAT

• Canyoning tour
• coffee experience with a trip to a plantation and several cafes
• “chase clouds” in Trai Mat
• visit Truc Lam Buddhist Temple
• visit Elephant Waterfall
• visit Maze Bar Dalat (100 roofs café)

WHERE TO STAY IN DALAT

• Pretty Backpacker House
• Tigon Dalat Hostel

DA NANG (1-2 DAYS)

Another big city on the Vietnam adventure trails that offers typical tourist delights

TOP EXPERIENCES DA NANG

• Visit Ba Na Hill & Golden bridge
• Ride the dragon bridge by motorbike
• Explore the nightlife
• Plenty of great restaurants.

MOTORBIKE THE HAI VAN PASS FROM DA NANG TO HOI AN (2-HOUR RIDE):

The “Hai-Van Pass” is an epically beautiful stretch of coastal mountain highway between Hoi An and Da Nang. The entire stretch of peaceful ocean views is perfect for motorbiking adventures and open-air Jeep tours from Hoi .

How to ride the Hai Van Pass: Arrange rental of a motorbike to cruise at your own pace from Hoi An to Da Nang and arrange transport of your bags to be taken separately by car.  The scooter/motorbike rental will be for a one way trip and the provider should be able to arrange delivery of your bags. Ask your hostel/hotel staff for motorbike rental recommendations – they will be the best source of information for the adventure.

HOI AN (2 DAYS)

A beautiful UNESCO World Heritage City recognized as being one of the most well-preserved Southeast Asia trading ports dating back to the 1400s, artfully blending local and foreign influences into architecture, food, and experience

TOP EXPERIENCES HOI AN

• Hoi An Central Market
• Hoi An Old Town
• Plenty of food adventures,
• Japanese Bridge
• Getting a tailor-made suits or clothes for fun with wacky prints
• Vietnamese cooking class for Hoi-An specific cusisine
• Grabbing a beer by the Thu Bon River on itty bitty plastic chairs
• Motorbiking to the Marble Mountains
• Hoi An Night Market

WHAT TO EAT AND WHERE

• Grab Bánh mì at Banh Mi Phuong, recommended by Anthony Bourdain
• Pork buns, Bahn Xeo

WHERE TO STAY

• Vietnam Backpackers Hoi An : A resort-like hostel tucked into an artistically remodeled historic building

HANOI (3 DAYS)

A charming city despite its size, heavily influenced by French architecture and food.  Wonderful for relaxing exploration while being a gateway to the more beautiful north of Vietnam

TOP EXPERIENCES HANOI

• Hanoi Old Quarter
• Hoan Kiem Lake + Legend
• St. Joseph’s Cathedral
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
• Hanoi Hilton tour (Hoa Lo Prison) Pho
• Egg coffee at Café Pho Co overlooking the legendary Hoan Kiem lake
• A street food tour
• shop for potentially counterfeit outdoor and adventure gear/clothing at one of the “Made In Vietnam” store)
• Phung Hung Mural Street
• Dong Xuan Market
• Vietnam Backpackers Central: 100% party and instant social life (book directly via the hostel’s site)
• Republik Backpackers hostel : Peace, quiet, and comfort

WHAT TO EAT

• Bun Cha, Pho

ESSENTIAL SIDE TRIPS FROM HANOI AND IN NORTHERN VIETNAM 

Recommended tours from hanoi.

• Ha Long Bay (2 Days) or Ha Long Bay Castaway Experience (recommended via Vietnam Backpackers)
• (Optional)Cat Ba Island
• (Optional) Ninh Binh

HA LONG BAY (2 DAYS)

This bay of 1,600 floating islands inspired the dreamscapes of the movie Avatar and are the best experience for a fun boat tour, allowing you to swim and kayak along the way. Consider leveling up the experience with a party heavy two-day castaway leaving you stranded on an island for an excitingly irreplaceable experience.

SAPA (2 DAYS)

This romantic mountain town is nestled in the cool north.  Experience the relaxing ambiance with a day trek (guided by locals) through the hills and rice fields, sharing history and culture along the way.

HA GIANG LOOP (4 DAYS)

Rent a motorbike and ride this four-day loop of northern Vietnam through rice fields, mountains, and to the border of China for arguably the most beautiful and authentic adventure in Vietnam.  Grab your motorbike for the trip from Style Motorbikes in Hanoi.

BA BE NATIONAL PARK (2 DAYS)

4.5 hours from Hanoi lies a peaceful escape, a national park of only bays, caves, and flooded rice paddies.  Stay at a guesthouse on the cheap and take a guided tour of the park (by boat) for an experience you can’t have anywhere else.

(**Ba Be National Park video**)

(OPTIONAL) NINH BINH

If you have extra time consider adding the beauty of Ha Long Bay’s floating islands experienced on land.

OTHER GREAT EXPERIENCES FOR ANYWHERE IN VIETNAM

• Vietnamese Coffee making class: Best in Dalat
• Vietnamese cooking class: Best in Hanoi, Hoi An, or Ho Chi Minh city
• Riding all of Vietnam by Motorbike: Buy a motorbike from a fellow backpacker for $200-$500 USD, and ride!
• Vietnam Backpacker’s “Bull Run”
• Vietnam Backpacker’s Castaway in Ha Long Bay
• Ninhvana Backpacker’s Resort in Ninh Van
• Riding the Hai Van Pass

VIETNAM IN PICTURES

BUDGETING AND COSTS IN VIETNAM

• Nice Hostel Bed per Night: $7/Night
• Hotel Room Per Night: $25/night
• Average Meal: $3
• Daily Backpacker Budget: $25/day + additional $30-$50 for each big trip

ESSENTIAL FOOD AND DRINK IN VIETNAM

• Bun Cha (Best in Hanoi)
• Egg Coffee (Best in Hanoi)
• Vietnamese Coffee
• Local beer: Made from rice, and served draught streetside at the bars with countless tiny chairs
• Banh Mi (Best everywhere, style varies by city
• Cao Lao (Best in Hoi An)
• Cha Ca (Best in Hanoi)
• Guoi Cuon (Spring Rolls)
• Bun Bo Hue (Best in Central Vietnam)

HOW TO GET AROUND VIETNAM

• From Airports: Grab Rideshare app (to avoid being ripped off by taxis)
• Between Cities: 12go.Asia or Rome2Rio for planning buses or booking shuttles through your hostel, hotel, or local travel agent kiosk
• In-Town: Byfoot is the best option for explorers, booking tour buses for adventures outside of town.  Moto taxis are great for getting around town and best booked in the Grab rideshare app or with a price agreed upon in advance
• Adventure Option – Motorbike Vietnam: Join the Vietnam Backpackers FB groups and purchase a used motorbike from a fellow backpacker for $200-$400, “moto-pack” the length of Vietnam, and resell before leaving.

VIETNAM VISA STRATEGY

Available for 1, 3, and 6 months, authorization required before arrival

• Vietnam Visa Fees: Agent fee (varies) paid in advance and stamp fee on arrival (varies)
• All visas require a visa approval letter attained prior to your arrival from a visa agent and printed to present at the airport on arrival – you won’t have the chance to print on arrival and will be turned away if you don’t have it
• Different visas are required if you fly internationally into Vietnam or cross a land border (via Cambodia, Laos, or China).  Request the correct type of Visa accordingly.
• Average Visa Agent Fees (paid in advance to private visa agent): 1 month single: $6 / person; 1 month multiple: $6 / person 3 months single entry: $15 / person ; 3 months multiple entry: $20 / person – these are in addition to stamp fees paid on arrival
• Visa Stamp Fees (paid on arrival to Vietnamese government): Bring cash (in USD or VND) as you will have to  pay for visa stamp fee (paid by yourself upon arrival at the airport: 25$ for 1 month and 3 month single entry, 50$ for 1 month multiple entry and 3 month multiple entry, 95$ for 6 months multiple entry, 135$ for 1-year multiple entry
• My Visa Agent: I used http://vietnamvisapro.com/ several times with no issues

TRAVEL INSURANCE IN VIETNAM

I highly recommend having travel insurance in Vietnam, as the motorbiking, canyoning, and off the beaten path adventures.  I recommend the following two options

• World Nomads : Higher cost, but great support and few issues filing claims
• SafetyWing : Lower cost, but sufficient to cover most all adventures in Vietnam

ESSENTIAL HEALTH TIPS FOR VIETNAM

  Consider getting a rabies booster in advance.  Carry the medications you need for most situations for a minimum of 3 days, including stomach meds as you adjust to Asia (Pepto, Immodium, etc.) and pain relievers.

WHEN TO VISIT VIETNAM

December to March during high season, when the weather is dry.

LAOS 2 WEEK ITINERARY

Laos is a rugged and often overlooked backpacking destination in Southeast Asia, but the hidden beauty, preserved culture, and numerous outdoor adventures – trekking, rafting, motorbiking, and more – make Laos a fulfilling locale for budget travelers and backpackers that love the outdoors.

HERE ARE THE TOP 5 REASONS TO TRAVEL TO LAOS

• Rural, off the beaten track feel: No matter where you go in Laos, it feels like you’re traveling back in time experiencing Asia before the Banana Pancake Trail set in
• Plenty of Outdoor Adventures: Jungle treks, floating down the river on inner tubes, and exploring limestone caves/bunkers are a few of the many adventures that we miss in urban destinations
• Laos is cheap: For travelers on a budget, Laos will be the cheapest destination on your itinerary while still providing plenty of easy travel and transport infrastructure
• Hidden history: From unexploded ordance to the history of the “Secret War”, Laos will shock you with history you likely have never heard about
• Amazing Landscapes: Top to bottom, Laos is filled with towering mountains, green jungles, and rolling hills that most westerners will only witness in pictures

OVERALL RATING FOR LAOS

• Tourist Rating: 6/10 – Not as glitzy as other SEA destinations as Laos lacks urban flare
• Adventure Rating: 9/10 – Perfect for lovers of the outdoors and adventure sports
• Backpacker Travel Rating: 9/10 – Cheap, easy to travel, and rugged enough to be charming

2 WEEK LAOS ITINERARY

If you’re backpacking SEA and want the best of everything, this 2 week Laos itinerary helps you maximize your time by hitting the quintessential experiences that you can only experience in Laos.

• Luang Prabang (3 Days)
• Vang Vieng (3 Days)
• Vientiane (3 Days)
• Optional: “Don Det” 4000 Islands in Si Phan Don (if traveling by motorbike to Cambodia)

LUANG PRABANG (3 DAYS)

Luang Prabang is an absolute highlight of adventuring through Laos.  A former French colonial town, this UNESCO world heritage site boasts an amazingly rough and southeast backdrop, monasteries and temples to explore, and countless wild adventures outside of the city

TOP EXPERIENCES IN LUANG PRABANG

• Kuang Si Waterfalls, countless Buddhist temples

VANG VIENG (3 DAYS)

A haven for wild backpackers and backpackers that love the wild outdoors, Vang Vieng is a jungle town with adventure and relaxation in equal parts.  Cheap, cozy, comfortable, and perfect for a genuine travel experience.

TOP EXPERIENCES IN VANG VIENG

• Tubing or kayaking the Nan Song River (with booze and friends), dense jungle day hikes – both of these are only possible outside of monsoon season

VIENTIANE (3 DAYS)

A big colonial French city, Vientiane is more of a “transit and resupply” location with much less charm and adventure than Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang.  Plan in this stop as simply a transit point, and use the days to wander Laos’ biggest city, eating the local (and French inspired) food, observing the architectural influence, and ending sunset on the local river walk next to the market.

TOP EXPERIENCES IN VIENTIANE

• Sunset by the river with the evening market and experiencing Laos local life, visit the COPE Center (Vietnam War in Laos history)

OPTIONAL ADVENTURES LAOS

• “Don Det” 4000 Islands in Si Phan Don (if traveling by motorbike to Cambodia) to float, wander, and relax
• Optional: Gibbon Experience** ziplining through the jungle canopy in Nam Kan National Park

LAOS IN PICTURES

BUDGETING AND COSTS IN LAOS

• Nice Hostel Bed per Night: $5
• Hotel Room Per Night: $20 – $40
• Daily Backpacker Budget: $20
• Daily Tourist Budget: $60

ESSENTIAL FOOD AND DRINK

• Larb/Laap – A meat salad served with sticky rice
• Khao Jee – Baguette Sandwich
• Khao Poon – Spicy Soup with Vermicelli Noodles and Pounded Meat
• Sai Gok – Laotian sausage, season pork served with sticky rice
• BeerLao – A local beer brewed with rice (vice grains)
• Laos Pho – Similar to Vietnamese Pho but served with flat noodles (or thin rice noodles on request) and may have beef innards (heart, liver, etc.)
• Or Lam – A Lao stew originating in Luang Prabang made with dried buffalo meat
• Sien Savanh – Laotian beef jerky
• Tam Mak Hoong – Lao papaya salad

GETTING TO LAOS

• From Vietnam by Air, fly from Hanoi into Luang Prabang, making for a smooth, one-way tour south (~$100).  Most flights from Ho Chi Minh city connect through Hanoi, making Hanoi the best departure point
• Consider leaving Hanoi to Luang Prabang from Vietnam by bus, but plan on a 25-hour bus ride.
• From Thailand, consider taking the relaxingly adventurous slow boat from Huay Xai to Pak Beng to Luang Prabang.  Travel by bus from Chiang Rai, Thailand, to the border
• BEST OPTION: Buy a motorbike in Vietnam , ride into Laos**, ride to the northern border (China), ride west into Laos, and ride south toward Vang Vieng à Luang Prabang à Vientiane.  Be sure to by a bike with the “blue card” to ensure you can make it across Laos – Vietnam border

GETTING AROUND LAOS

• Plan for roughly a day of travel (4 to 12 hours) between cities
• Minibusses between Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, and Vientiane arranged through your hostel, hotel, or local travel agency – Online bookings and route times available at 12goAsia
• Consider buying a motorbike in Laos, easiest in Vientiane for ~$150, and explore the country

VISA STRATEGY

• 30-day visa on arrival available for most nationalities at 27 entry points/border crossing. Extendable twice up to 90 days total. ($30 to $42 depending on nationality, plus passport photo) (Link: http://www.immigration.gov.la/visas.html )
• 60-day e-visa available to nationalities ineligible for the Visa on arrival and can be used to enter at the Thai-Laos friendship bridge, Wattay International Airport (Vientiane), and Luang Prabang International airport ($50) (Link: https://laoevisa.gov.la/)

PACKING ESSENTIALS

• A good backpack – roller luggage or duffel bag would make travel miserable
• A good compressible daypack as most of the adventures are less than a day’s length
• Good boots for hiking, to make the most of the exploration opportunities
• Adventure and trekking ready sandals like the Xero Trails or Chacos
• A 10L to 20L waterproof bag to keep the essentials dry in wet weather and on river floats
• Ziploc bags large and small, to keep things dry and un-muddied on the adventures
• Bug spray to start the adventures as jungles are filled with buggies

TRAVEL INSURANCE IN LAOS

Laos is an adventurous destination.  With the river floating, jungle trekking, and motorbiking experiences, travel insurance is an absolute must .  I wouldn’t consider visiting without it.  I highly recommend either World Nomads or SafetyWing as they have both been reliable on adventures and the cost is reasonable

WHEN TO VISIT LAOS

January to March in Laos is best as temperatures are manageable and the weather is drier. The Laotian monsoon season is May until October, and the dry season is from November to April.

MOVING ON FROM LAOS: GO TO CAMBODIA OR VIETNAM

Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia are all very accessible from Laos.  Plan on flying out of Vientiane to your next destination, or consider motorbiking through Laos and on through Cambodia

CAMBODIA 1 WEEK ITINERARY

OVERALL RATING FOR CAMBODIA

• Tourist Rating: 9/10 for Angkor Wat, 6/10 elsewhere
• Adventure Rating: 6/10
• Backpacker Travel Rating: 9/10 for Angkor Wat, 6/10 elsewhere
• Phnom Penh (1 Day): S-21 Genocide Museum, shoot big guns and things that go “boom,” markets (Russian Market + food stalls), temples (Wat Phnom), a river cruise on the Mekong
• Siem Reap/Angkor Wat (2 Days): Angkor Wat by tuk tuk ($25 for Tuk Tuk + $37 entry ticket) tour starting at sunrise, night market experiences of The Lane + Pub Street
• Optional (2-3 Days): Sihanoukville to Koh Rong and Koh Ron Samleon island for white sands, clear waters, and phosphorescent plankton
• Optional – Kampot: A low key town best for backpackers, enjoy riverside cocktails and food, rent a scooter for a fun half-day ride through the hills nearby

CAMBODIA IN PICTURES

BUDGETING AND COSTS IN CAMBODIA

• Hotel Room Per Night: $35
• Average Meal: $6
• Daily Budget: $25 to $70 + fees for major attractions
• Note: Siem Reap will be much more expensive than Phnom Penh, Kampot, and Koh Rong

GETTING AROUND CAMBODIA

• Plan to travel between cities by bus booked through your hostel or hotel, or at a local travel kiosk.  Aim to only travel between cities during the day due to safety risks (bandits, robberies targeting foreigners on roads between cities at night).

CAMBODIA VISA STRATEGY

e-Visa valid for 30-day stay costing $36 USD available at the Kingdom of Cambodia visa pagehttps://www.evisa.gov.kh/

PACKING ESSENTIALS FOR CAMBODIA

Fanny pack/bum bag or other means of tightly securing valuables from “run-by” bag thieves

TRAVEL INSURANCE IN CAMBODIA

Absolutely necessary! Confirm coverage includes medical evacuation

Most reputable travel insurance options will do because there are few “high risk” activities to do in Cambodia.  I highly recommend SafetyWing for budget travelers and World Nomads for travelers with larger budgets.  Due to the risk of getting sick (stomach bugs) and relatively poor medical facilities, having medical evacuation coverage with your travel insurance is highly recommended.

WHEN TO VISIT CAMBODIA

Visit during the dry season between November and May, with November to February being the coolest months. Visiting during the dry season ensures the weather will be suitable for the Angkor Wat experience. 

Cambodia’s wet season is from June to September.  Expect extreme heat (highs of ~35 Celsius, 95 Fahrenheit) between March and June

ESSENTIAL BOOKS AND MOVIES ABOUT CAMBODIA

The Killing Fields (movie)

GETTING TO CAMBODIA

Arriving in Cambodia from Vietnam, a 6-hour bus ride from Ho Chi Minh city to Phnom Penh is the best entry plan.  When arriving from anywhere else to Cambodia , an international flight into Phnom Penh or Siem Reap is the best, cheapest, most efficient option.

MOVING ON FROM CAMBODIA

Fly on to Chiang Mai or Bangkok in Thailand or to Ho Chi Minh city or Hanoi in Vietnam to continue the Banana Pancake Trail.

THAILAND 3 WEEK ITINERARY

The original “backpacker” paradise: Street food, beautiful islands, and peaceful hill country

HIGHLIGHT EXPERIENCES IN THAILAND 

• Excellent starter destination
• Street food (Bangkok and Chiang Mai Old Town)
• Bangkok backpacker experience
• Khao Sak National Park
• Hill Country and Monastaries (Chiang Mai and Pai)

LOWLIGHTS OF TRAVELING IN THAILAND

• Fading “backpacker” vibe, as prices rise and heavy tourism takes over

OVERALL RATING FOR THAILAND

• Tourist Rating: 9/10
• Adventure Rating: 9/10
• Backpacker Travel Rating: 9/10

CHIANG MAI (3 DAYS)

Walking tour of Old Town Chiang Mai + visit the Temples around Old Town Chiang Mai ( Wat Rajamontean , Wat Lok Molee , Wat Suan Dok ), visit Wat Doi Suthep in the hill country + Doi Suthep hike, visit the many Old Town and Nimman Street Food Night Markets, Thai Traditional Massage Experience, take a Thai cooking class, visit the mega mall and a hipster café in Nimman.  Also, check out the many Chiang Mai cafes and coworking spaces to plan the rest of your trip.

Getting to Chiang Mai: Take the train from Bangkok (booked at the train station), then take a red collective taxi (the pickup trucks) for 35 Baht to your destination

PAI (2-3 DAYS)

Rent a motorbike (from the main road) to cruise and explore the hills of Pai, then ride and hike to the following adventure spots: Mae Yen waterfall, the World War II Memorial Bridge (Japanese Bridge), the short yet beautiful Pai Canyon hike by sunset. Take a cave tour (Tham Lod is a good choice). By night, enjoy street food at the Pai Night Market ( here ) on the main road.

Getting to Pai: Book a shared van through your hostel/hotel or 12go.Asia to Pai. You’ll take the same van back to Chiang Mai when moving on

My Personal Notes on Pai: Pai is a backpacker haven where solo travelers will make tons of friends.  Stay at a good hostel close to the main strip, be social, and make the most of the time.  Rent a motorbike (~150 Baht per day on the main street of Pai) for ultimate freedom.

BANGKOK (3 TO 5 DAYS)

Party on Khao San Road, explore the street food scenes near Khao San Road and in China town, eat a whole suckling pig (like Anthony Bourdain) at Tang Jai Yoo restaurant, visit the airplane graveyard and the flooded mall, visit the Bangkok floating market, explore around the Chao Praya River and ancient royal district, visit the Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha, visit Wat Pho temple to see the golden reclining Buddha and get an amazing traditional Thai massage, visit Siam or Chatuchak Weekend Market.  Also, consider the Damnoen Saduak Floating Markets & Bridge on River Kwai day trips from Bangkok.

KRABI / RAILAY (3 DAYS)

Enjoy Railay Beach, rent a motorbike and ride to the Tiger Cave Temple (+1,237 steps), party at Soi RCA, street food at Ao Nang Night Market, dip in the Emerald Pool and hot spring-fed waterfalls, jungle trek through Khao Sak National Park, swing under the huge cave at Hollow Mountain, hike to the Hang Nak Mountain for a towering viewpoint, raft the Songprak River.

KO PHI PHI (2-3 DAYS)

Maya bay day trip, boat tour between the islands, lots of beach time, or consider Ko Lanta for a more peaceful experience as Ko Phi Phi tends to be a party island

KOH TAO (2-3 DAYS)

Rent a motorbike and snorkel and cruise between beaches to sun and snorkel, consider taking a course for SCUBA dive certification, join the Ko Tao pub crawl that happens nightly for new friends and some interesting experiences, sunset at Mango Bay, Love Koh Tao Viewpoint Café for coffee.

KO PHA NGAN (2-3 DAYS)

Full Moon Party ( Full Moon Party calendar here for 2020 + 2021 ), half-moon beach party, wander between and soak up the sun on countless beaches, hop between waterfalls, Thong Sala Night Market for street food, explore the forbidden on at “Eden,” smoke some “stuff” at Amsterdam Bar.

THAILAND IN PICTURES

TRAVEL BUDGET AND COSTS IN THAILAND

• Nice Hostel Bed per Night: ~$10
• Private Hostel Room or Hotel Room Per Night: $20-$30
• Average Meal: ~$3
• Daily Budget: $30
• Pad Thai – Thai Stir-Fried Noodles
• Khao Pad/Khao Pad Kai – Fried Rice/Chicken Fried Rice
• Pad Krapao – Fried Basil and Chicken/Pork
• Panang – Thai Curry
• Guay Teow – “Noodle Soup”
• Tom Yum Goong – Spicy Shrimp Soup
• Tom Kha Gai – Chicken in Coconut Soup
• Som Tam – Papaya Salad
• Laab Moo/Ka – Spicy Pork/Chicken Salad
• Pad See Eiw – Stir-Fried Thick Noodles
• Pak Boong – Morning Glory
• Salted, grilled fish (street food)
• A “bucket” of alcohol – on Khao San Road, or in the Thai Islands

GETTING AROUND THAILAND

• Between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, traveling by train is your best option, bookable at 12Go.Asia or directly at the train station.  Still, use 12Go to find timetables.
• For any other travel in mainland Thailand (Chiang Mai to Pai, Chiang Rai, Krabi), aim for vans and buses, best booked at one of the many small travel agent kiosks throughout Bangkok, or 12Go.Asia
• Traveling by ferry is the obvious option for travel between islands .  It is best to book in advance at your port of departure or at one of the small travel agent kiosks you will see around.

VISA STRATEGY THAILAND

Thailand’s Visa Exemption is free and allows most nationalities to stay up to 30 days, but beware; you are only allowed two visas exemptions per year. Note that you must have a confirmed departure ticket (from Thailand) within 30 days from arrival.  You may be required to show proof that you have at least 10,000 Thai Baht (in any currency), but this part is rarely enforced

If you plan on expat’ ing or traveling Asia extensively, it is best to get a 60-day Tourist Visa in advance (at most Thai embassies and consulates) and save the Visa Exemptions.  Thailand is a great fall back location if something goes wrong anywhere else. Bangkok is a great hub for getting anywhere else – keeping at least one visa exemption creates a great backup plan when travels elsewhere in Asia go sour.

Thailand is an extremely developed destination, and you will likely be able to find anything you need on the road in Bangkok. 

You will absolutely be adventuring heavily through wet and dry climates, so a good pair of adventure-ready sandals are crucial as well as a pair of adventure-ready shoes or boots .

Leave the roller luggage at home and bring a good travel backpack and daypack, ideally carry on size.

Bring a rain jacket or waterproof shell as Thailand does have those surprise Asia rains year-round – or go cheap and buy a poncho on arrival

TRAVEL INSURANCE IN THAILAND

Though traveling Thailand can be exciting and slightly risky, hiking canyons, SCUBA diving, and cliff jumping, most reputable travel insurance companies will do for the adventure – so stick with travel insurance you know and trust, but check to ensure they cover any of your “crazier” activities (like SCUBA diving or freediving )

If you’re searching for travel insurance suitable for Thailand, I highly recommend Safetywing as a budget option and World Nomads if you have the extra cash to spare.  Both have served me very well during my travels.

WHEN TO VISIT THAILAND

November to early April is the best time to enter Thailand, during the cool, dry season, but this applies mostly to mainland Thailand.  For coastal Thailand, on the Gulf of Thailand in the east and the Andaman Sea in the west, the dry and wet season aligns with summer and winter.  Because of this, Thailand always has an island to runaway to for great relaxing and diving.

ESSENTIAL BOOKS AND MOVIES FOR TRAVELING TO THAILAND

The Beach is a classic and arguably the quintessential “backpacking” movie.

GETTING THERE TO THAILAND

Flying into Bangkok is your best, and cheapest bet as Bangkok connects to most major international destinations

MOVING ON FROM THAILAND

If you are just starting the “Banana Pancake Trail” backpacking tour through Southeast Asia, continue east to Luang Prabang, Laos.  The journey (via bus then boat) is best started from Chiang Mai.

If you’ve already completed the basic Banana Pancake Trail (Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam), consider continuing through Southeast Asia to create a more “tailored” experience.  Add one or two of the following “additional” countries in Southeast to your itinerary to build in specific adventures and specific experiences that are especially meaningful to you.

THE BEST “ADDITIONAL COUNTRIES” TO CONSIDER ADDING TO YOUR SOUTHEAST ASIA ITINERARY

The core itinerary of Southeast Asia – Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos – is perfect for any traveler and easy to do enjoyably within two months.  For those travelers with three months to spare, this extra month leaves a fantastic chance to experience a few more of South Asia’s gems of travel.

Each of the countries listed below is just as easily traveled as the other core SEA countries but offers something special, making it one of the world’s best places to experience that.

Cap off the adventure of your dreams by adding one or two of these countries to the end of your itinerary based on what you love about travel.

ITINERARIES FOR THE BEST “ADDITIONAL COUNTRIES”

MYANMAR (1 TO 2 WEEKS)

• Mandalay (2 Days): U Pein Bridge by sunrise, a bike tour of Mandalay, Mandalay Hill by sunset, Jade market
• Bagan (Day 2): Take an “e-bike” mounted tour past thousands of temples (~$4), sit atop a temple for sunrise and sunset overlooking the Bagan Archeological Zone
• Inle Lake trek from Kalaw to Inle Lake (2 to 4 Days): ~$30 USD for a two-day trek
• Inle Lake Experience  (2 Days): Tour Inle Lake by boat, Mingala Market, Pindaya Caves, cooking class
• Optional: Yangon (Rangoon) (2 Days):  Bagyoke Market, Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon Circular Train experience

Highlight Experiences: 1000’s of ancient temples in Bagan, trekking through the rural country, witnessing a floating city on Inle Lake, Mount Popa, and the monastery (on the way from Bagan to Kalaw)

SRI LANKA (3 WEEKS)

Note: The best Sri Lanka itinerary in the south is heavily dependent on the monsoon season.  Plan accordingly with the timelines below to avoid being caught in a storm

DECEMBER TO APRIL SRI LANKA ITINERARY

(Start on the Southwest Coast for Beaches)

• Colombo/Negombo (2 Days): Consider renting a tuk tuk to drive yourself around Sri Lanka
• Hikkaduwa (1 Day): A small beach town an hour outside of Negombo with great surfing and cheap hotels (and beach bars) ~20ft from the beach
• Galle (1 Day): Visit the beautiful Dutch Galle Fort, walking on the fort’s wall’s by sunset
• Weligama (2 Days): Enjoy relaxing surfing in the sandy-bottomed and calm Weligama Bay
• Tangalle (1 to 2 Days): Spend a day on beautiful, desolate beaches
• Tissamaharama & Yala National Park:
• à Proceed onto the northern circuit to Ella and cultural triangle

APRIL TO DECEMBER SRI LANKA ITINERARY

(Focus on the Southeast Coast for Beaches)

• Colombo/Negombo (2 Days): Considering renting a tuk tuk to drive yourself around Sri Lanka
• Tangalle (1 Day optional and weather dependent on the season): Spend a day on beautiful, desolate beaches
• Yala National Park Safari via Tissamaharama (1 Day): Take a jeep tour through Yala National Park ($35 to $90) to see leopards, elephants, crocs, peacocks, and more, follow up with a   self-guided tour of Yala by Tuk Tuk ending at the Sithulpawa Monastery, sleep in Yala National Park
• Arugam Bay (3 Days): Soak up sun and vibes in this cozy surf town with varied, mellow waves suitable for new and advanced surfers alike
• Proceed onto the northern circuit and cultural triangle

CONTINUE ONTO THE NORTHERN CIRCUIT AND CULTURAL TRIANGLE ITINERARY

• Ella (3 Days): A beautiful mountain town in the cool, high country filled with trekking and surrounded by tea plantations.  This town is built around backpackers and tourism and is arguably the comfiest city in Sri Lanka (tying with Arugam Bay)
• Ella/Nuwar Eliya to Kandy Train Ride (1 Full Day): The most beautiful train ride in the world, stretching a 2 to 9-hour ride through Sri Lanka’s green high country
• Nuwara Eliya (2 Days): A once English settlement that maintains its British roots and is a perfect base for the epic Adam’s Peak hike
• Kandy (1 Day): A big city and gateway to Sri Lanka’s cultural heart
• Dambulla/Sigiriya (1 Day): A tour of ancient caves turned into monasteries at Dambulla and the epic Lion’s Rock of Sigiriya, both with insane backstories reminiscent of Game of Thrones
• Anuradhapura (1 Day): Spend a day wandering the 1000+-year-old temples, castles, and ruins that make the entire city an archeological site comparable to Angkor Wat and Bagan

Highlight Experiences: Driving a tuk tuk around a country, surfing, wild animal safaris, ruins,

BALI, INDONESIA (2 WEEKS)

• Canggu (3 Days): Learn to surf and soak up the sun in Bali’s hipster center and favorite surf village on the beach filled with trendy bars, cafés, yoga studios, and endless nightlife (+ Seminyak and Kuta)
• Ubud (3 Days): Visit the spiritual heart of Bali tucked in the mountains and hills of rice field laden high country for trekking, jungle excursions, monkey forests, and cultural experiences
• The “Gili’s” (2 Days): Disappear to the islands free of cars and motorbikes for parties and peace & quiet with white sand beaches and plenty of turtles in between.  Great for SCUBA diving and snorkeling
• Nusa Lembongan (2 Days): Head to an even smaller island for amazing surfing and diving all in one spot
• Uluwatu & the Bukit (3 Days) : Crystal clear turquoise waters and some of the best surfing and most beautiful beaches in Bali along with cultural experiences like seafood markets, temples, and Kecak dances
• Optional: Amed (snorkeling and diving), Medewi (longboard surfing), Candidasa (peaceful and quiet)

Highlight Experiences: Beautiful beaches, spiritual experiences, SCUBA and freediving, surfing, hipster traveler/backpacker partying

THE PHILIPPINES (3 TO 4 WEEKS)

• Manilla (2 days): Explore mega malls, museums, and plenty of food
• Cebu City (1 day): Move quickly on to Oslob
• Oslob, Cebu (2 days): Dive with whale sharks
• Dumaguete (2 days): Snorkel and SCUBA dive with turtles and beautiful coral on “Turtle Island” aka Apo Island
• Bohol (2 days): Motorbike rides to the chocolate hills and nightlife on the beach
• El Nido (3 days): Consider a liveaboard cruise (like Tao Philippines), rock climb, sun on the beach, cruise a motorbike around the many beautiful beaches
• Coron (3 days): Take a boat tour each day to the most beautiful and recently discovered destinations for mainstream travelers
• Siargao (Optional): Surf and sun in this hip new destination made famous by Red Bull surfing

Highlights: Day trip boat cruises, pristine beaches, and waters, amazing diving, liveaboard cruises, swimming with whale sharks

When to Visit: November to April is the dry season & peak tourist season.  April is best for whale shark sightings

Optional Additions: Volcano country, eco-friendly whale shark diving in Donsol

NEPAL (2 TO 3 WEEKS)

• Kathmandu (2 Days): Acclimatize and pick up the gear you’ll need for your trek of choice
• One Trekking Route: Everest Base Camp (12-14 days) or Annapurna Circuit (20 days)

Highlights: Trekking in the Himalayas

OTHER GREAT ARTICLES ABOUT BACKPACKING THE WORLD

• The 9 Best South America Backpacking Routes for 2 Weeks to 6 Months of Travel
• 5 Essential Routes for Backpacking the World and Visiting Every Continent
• The Balkan Walk: The Perfect Backpacking Itinerary for the Balkans
• 3 Months in Southeast Asia: A Perfect Plan for the the “Banana Pancake Trail”
• The Mini Backpacking Trails: 15 Itineraries Aroudn the World for 2 Weeks or Less

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carlos is a nomad, slow traveler, and writer dedicated to helping others live abroad and travel better by using his 7+ years of experience living abroad and background as a management consultant and financial advisor to help other nomad and expats plot better paths for an international lifestyle. Click here to learn more about Carlos's story.

• March 20, 2021
• No Comments

The Ultimate 3-Month South America Backpacking Itinerary & Route

Can you see south america in 3 months.

You won’t be able to see the entirety of South America in 3 months. It’s way too big. However, 3 months is a good amount of time to see 3-5 countries without rushing. 

If you are looking to see the whole continent and tick off the most popular countries (Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina and Brazil ), I would recommend 5-6 months. 

What's The Best Way To Spend 3 Months In South America?

There’s two ways in which I think you should spend 3 months in South America. 

One is focussing on ‘slow travel’, savouring the journey and embracing the culture of South America. The second is a pacier itinerary that allows you to see more in a shorter amount of time.

Here are your options:

• ‘Slow Travel’ 3-Month Itinerary – a month each in Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia
• Pacier 3-Month Itinerary – two and a half weeks each in Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, Chile and Brazil 

The first option of embracing slow travel is my preferred choice. I will always encourage travelers to immerse themselves in local cultures and explore destinations at a leisurely pace. 

However, there’s nothing wrong with the second option and going down this route means you will see the highlights of South America. 

3 Month South America Itinerary - Ecuador, Peru & Bolivia

ITINERARY BREAKDOWN

Here is a full breakdown of this 3-month South America itinerary that covers Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia:

• Week 1 – Ecuador – Quito, Otavalo and Mindo
• Week 2 – Ecuador – Cotopaxi Secret Garden and Quilotoa 
• Week 3 – Ecuador – Baños and Guayaquil
• Week 4  – Ecuador – Galapagos Islands
• Week 5 – Ecuador – Montanita
• Week 6  – Peru – Lima and Huaraz
• Week 7 – Peru – Paracas and Huacachina
• Week 8 – Peru – Arequipa and Colca Canyon 
• Week 9 – Peru – Cusco
• Week 10 – Peru – Salkantay Trek and Machu Picchu
• Week 11 – Bolivia – Copacabana and La Paz
• Week 12 – Bolivia – Amazon and Uyuni Salt Flats

PROS & CONS

+ ticks off some of the best sights in South America including Machu Picchu, Galapagos Islands, the Amazon and the Salt Flats.

+ moving at a much slower pace and allows time for surf and language schools if you want to include them.

+ cheaper compared to second itinerary outlined further on in this post that covers 6 countries.

+ This itinerary can be done on a budget if needed. Just remove the Galapagos Islands. 

+ follows a well established backpacker route so you’ll meet lot’s of people along the way.

– Galapagos Islands in Ecuador add around $750 to your budget.

– Patagonia isn’t included which is often the place most people want to visit when visiting South America.

Week 1 - Quito, Mindo and Otavalo

Day 1 -3 - Quito

Spend 2-3 days in the capital getting your bearings.

Whilst there you can explore the UNESCO historical centre, visit the equator line at Mitad Del Mundo, and have a night out on the town.

If you are feeling brave you can also attempt your first hike at altitude and climb Volcano Pichincha which looms over the city.  

For more information on what to do in the capital, check out our guides below:

• The 19 Best Things To Do In Quito

Day 4-5 - Otavalo

Then it’s a short 2-hour bus journey north to Otavalo for a couple of days to see the largest indigenous market in the whole of South America and to complete your first hike at the beautiful crater lake, Laguna Cuicocha.

If you didn’t climb Pichincha in Quito, then this will be your first hike at altitude to get you prepared for the many more to come over your 3-month South America journey.

For more on Otavalo including the best places to stay and more great things to do, head to the post below:

• The Best Things To Do In Otavalo

Day 6-7 - Mindo

And to finish off your first week in South America, another short bus ride will get you to the town of Mindo so you can go exploring in the beautiful cloud forest.

Here you can try some of the best chocolate in Ecuador at one of the many farms, hike in the cloud forest along the ‘Route of Waterfalls’, or go tubing down one of the powerful rivers.

The Mindo city guide below has all the information you need: 

• Mindo City Guide & 3 Day itinerary

Week 2 - Cotopaxi National Park & The Quilotoa Loop

Day 8-9 - Cotopaxi National Park

Now it’s time to spend 2 days at Ecuador’s best hostel – Secret Garden Cotopaxi . The hostel is set in the middle of the national park and has one of the best views in the world, directly opposite Cotopaxi Volcano .

From the hostel, you can plan hikes into the park, go horse-riding across the Andean planes, and even summit Cotopaxi if you are brave enough. 

Or if you want to visit the park by yourself, I’ve outlined 3 other ways you can get there including a day trip from Quito or renting a car and exploring on your own:

• 4 Great Ways To Visit Cotopaxi National Park

Day 10-14 - Quilotoa Loop

After a lovely stay at Cotopaxi, it’s time for even more trekking. A short journey will take you to the town of Latacunga where you can prepare for the epic 3-day, self-guided trek known as the Quilotoa Loop.

The challenging 70km ‘loop’ will take you through 3 towns in the Ecuadorian countryside, eventually ending at the breathtaking Quilotoa Crater.

Alternatively, if you aren’t a big hiker you can just visit the crater on the day trip. The town of Quilotoa is tiny and you can walk to the crater in 5 minutes for incredible views without any of the hiking. This will give you a couple of extra days spare if you want longer in the surf town of Montañita or to visit the Galápagos Islands. 

Completing this 3-day trek requires some preparation so be sure to read the complete guide below so you’re fully prepared:

• How to Plan And Hike The Quilotoa Loop 

Week 3 – Baños & Guayaquil

Day 15-19 - Baños

You can easily spend 4-5 days in the adventure capital of Ecuador.

There’s so much to do here including white-water rafting, hiking, and riding bicycles along a 16km stretch of road known as the ‘Route of Waterfalls’ to the insanely powerful waterfall ‘Pailon del Diablo’.

Banos is also the perfect place to relax! Massage and treatments are cheap here and there are several bath houses with thermal baths fuelled by the volcanoes surrounding the town.

Check out the complete Baños backpacker guide for more information:

• The Essential 4 Day Banos Itinerary 

Day 20-21 - Guayaquil

After this, you will need a full day to travel to Guayaquil (7-8 hour bus) where you can also spend an extra day or two if you wish, but there isn’t much here for backpackers.

Just use any extra days to get ready for your once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Galápagos Islands!

Week 4 – The Galápagos Islands

You can’t visit South America for 3 months and not go to the Galapagos Islands. The price often puts a lot of backpackers off but it’s such an incredible place that it can’t be missed. 

If you can’t afford a week then 5 days is still a good amount of time to visit two of the main islands and still have a great time. The island has so many free activities that you only need to worry about spending money on food and accommodation.

Contrary to what most people believe, you don’t need to book a tour or a live-aboard boat to see the islands. You can take direct flights to the islands and explore them yourself without blowing your budget on an over-priced tour that does the exact same thing. 

If you are looking to do it on a budget then check out these two posts to help you:

• DIY Galapagos Itinerary – 5 days, 7 days, or 10 days
• How To Visit The Galapagos Islands Without A Tour

Week 5 – Montañita

After an amzing week on the Galapagos Islands, fly back into Guayaquil. You might want to rest up a day before heading to the amazing beach town of Montañita .

Montanita is the surf and party capital of Ecuador. It draws in travellers and locals alike looking for good swells and beachside dance floors that stay open late into the night.  It’s not all just surfing and boozing though, and the town has a lot more on offer from immersive language schools to tranquil yoga retreats.

You have a full week here so now it’s time to relax, sign up for an incredible Spanish school, and learn how to surf!

For more on Montanita, head to the post below:

• Is Montanita Worth Visiting? 10 Reasons To Visit In 2023

For a more detailed version of this backpacking route, including a breakdown of each day and how to budget for it, you can also check out these posts:

• Ecuador 1 Month Backpacking Itinerary & Route
• Ecuador: Daily & Weekly Backpacking Budget 

To get to Peru from Ecuador, you’ll need to take the bus from Montanita to Guayaquil. From here, you take 2 hour flight to Lima which should cost between $100-150. 

Do You Want Cheap Flights To South America With Cashback?

I’ve been using WayAway Plus to book almost everything whilst travelling around South America.

You get cashback on:

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Week 6 – Lima & Huaraz

Day 36-37 - Lima

Two days in the capital of Peru is more than enough to explore the bohemian district of Barranco and try some amazing regional dishes like ceviche . But there isn’t much here for backpackers so feel free to move on if you want.

If you are interested in spending some time in Lima, then use the post below to help you plan out your time there:

• The Backpackers Guide To Lima

Day 38-42 - Huaraz

Then on to Huaraz, the hiking capital of Peru.

Single-day hikes to Laguna 69 or Laguna Paron are perfect for beginner hikers who still want to experience the beauty of the mountains.

Alternatively, there are multi-multi-day hikes such as the famous Santa Cruz trek or the Cordillera Huayhuash route that will see you climbing among the above the clouds and camping in the mountains from 5 to 10 days.

Week 7 – Paracas & Huacachina

Day 43-46 - Paracas

Paracas National Park is an untouched natural landscape perfect for exploration and adventure. You can navigate the park by bicycle , ATV, or dune buggy. As you fly down giant dunes at sunset with an endless expanse of desert in front of you, it will feel like you’re on another planet.

Paracas is also home to the Ballestas Islands . This is another chance to see some incredible wildlife such as sealions, dolphins and blue-footed boobies. However, seeing as you’ve already visitied the Galapagos Islands on this 3-month itinerary, you may want to skip this part. 

Top Tip – The desert heat here is intense so make sure you stay at Kokopelli Hostel which is the only hostel in town to have a pool!

Check out the guide linked below for more info:

• Paracas City Guide & 3 Day Itinerary 

Day 47-50 - Paracas

Then after Paracas, it’s time to swap one desert for another with a visit to the famous oasis at Huacachina .

You’ll get another chance to fly across the giant dunes in sand buggies as well as sandboard down to the tallest of them, watch the epic sunset, and party the night away in the crazy Wild Rover backpacker hostel.

Stay at either Wild Rover or Banana Adventures whilst here. Both have pools and this is necessary in the day to deal with the desert heat. Wild Rover in Huacachina is one my favourite party hostels in South America.

For a complete list of the best hostels on the continent, follow the link below:

• The Best Party Hostels In South America

Preparing for your first trip to South America? 

Here are 22 FAQ’s to help you prepare for the trip of a lifetime: 

• How To Prepare For A Trip To South America: 31 FAQs Answered

How do you prepare for a trip to South America? Here are 31 commonly asked questions, answered an expert (me) so you can have the trip of a lifetime!

Week 8 – Arequipa & Colca Canyon

Day 51-53 - Arequipa

Arequipa is worth an extra day or two both before and after visiting Colca Canyon. It’s full of great backpacker hostels, restaurants, and bars to enjoy.

My favourite thing to do there is find a rooftop bar and watch the sunset. Arequipa is surrounded by volcanoes so you’ll be treated to one of the best views in Peru whilst enjoying an ice cold beer.

Other great things to do here include stunning Santa Catalina Monastery, a historic convent with vibrant, maze-like streets and visiting the iconic Plaza de Armas, surrounded by beautiful colonial architecture and the majestic Cathedral. 

Use the planned itineraries in the post below to plan out your time here:

• 3-Day vs 4-Day Arequipa Itinerary

Day 54-56 - Colca Canyon

Arequipa is an amazing city for backpackers but the real wonder here is a visit to Colca Canyon – the second deepest canyon in the world.

Trekking down into the Colca Canyon is an experience like no other takes anywhere from 2 to 3 days depending on the route you take. 

For more on Colca Canyon:

• 5 Ways To Visit Colca Canyon

Week 9 – Cusco

Cusco is the highlight of the country and a week here is needed to see everything it has to offer.

I would recommend taking your first day easy and adjusting to the altitude, one day exploring the town and then one day trekking to 5000 to the top of Rainbow Mountain. 

For your other days, take day trips into the Sacred Valley. The Sacred Valley boasts some of Peru’s most captivating sights, including the ancient Inca ruins of Ollantaytambo , with its impressive stone terraces and archaeological significance, and the picturesque Pisac , renowned for its vibrant artisan market and hilltop ruins offering panoramic views. 

If you aren’t busy hiking or exploring the beautiful natural wonders around the city, you’ll be relaxing in one of the many artisan cafes or partying the night away with all the other backpackers in town.

To see how to spend a full week here in style, click on the itinerary post below:

• The Essential 5-Day Cusco and Machu Picchu Itinerary

Week 10 - The Salkantay Trek

The Salkantay Trek is consistently voted among the world’s best treks. It’s also a fun, efficient and challenging way to reach Machu Picchu. 

The 5-day trek will take you to some of the most scenic places in Peru such as Laguna Humantay and the Salkantay Pass , and then on the final day, you will climb the steps to the famous Incan citadel for sunset.

This will be one of the best memories from your 3-month trip to South America and can’t be missed! 

The Salkantay Trek requires preparation so make sure you check out the guide below to see whether its for you:

• Salkantay Trek Guide And What To Expect

Week 11 - Copacabana & La Paz

Day 77-79 - Copacabana

Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world at 3,810 metres above sea level. Half of it sits in Peru, the other half in Bolivia.

The town of Copacabana on the Bolivian side is a small but pretty place filled with local markets and artisan restaurants, but it’s the lake itself that is the must-see.

Fun activities include walking up to the summit of Cerro Calvario to get beautiful views of the lake and taking a boat tour to Isla del Sol which is the largest island on the lake.

Day 80-83 - La Paz

Once you reach La Paz you have an endless list of things to choose from such as biking down Death Road , trekking in the Valley of the Moon, or climbing Huayna Potosi.

3-4 days is a good amount of time to cover it all.

Follow the La Paz guides below to help you plan:

• The 13 Best Things To Do In La Paz
• The Best Backpacker Hostels In La Paz

Week 12 - The Amazon & Salar De Uyuni

Day 84-87 - The Amazon

Visiting the Amazon in Bolivia is a good idea as it’s so much cheaper compared to other countries in South America. 

You can get a package deal that includes a 3-day jungle tour and return flights from La Paz for around $200 depending on the season and how savvy you are.

From the town of Rurrenabaque, you will spend 3 days exploring the winding tributaries of the Amazon river by speedboat, searching for caimans, anacondas, and rare birds of paradise.

Read the booking guide below for more on how to find the best and cheapest tours:

• How To Book An Amazon Tour In Bolivia 

Day 88-90 - Uyuni Salt Flats

After the Amazon, you can fly back to La Paz or straight down to Uyuni. And once you arrive in Uyuni, it’s time to end this epic South America trip with one of the best tours on the whole continent.

The 3-day Salar De Uyuni tour will take you from one unique landscape to the next, starting with the white expanse of the salt flat on day 1, to the high-altitude desert of the Andes on the next.

The first day on the tour is spent taking the famous perspective and reflection shots . Then on the second, you drive out across the Altiplano, the high altitude desert that’s home to volcanoes, geyser fields and high altitude lakes.

Your mind will be blown by all the incredible scenery and you will leave on a high. The perfect way to end an incredible 3 months in South America!

Check out the complete guide linked below to help you book the best tour:

• The Ultimate Uyuni Salt Flats Guide

If you want to extend the trip in Bolivia, then check out our 1-month Bolivia itinerary and budget guide:

• Bolivia Three Week Itinerary
• Bolivia Backpacking Budget 

3 Month South America Itinerary - Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile & Argentina

Here is a full breakdown of this 3-month South America itinerary that covers Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina:

• Week 1 – Ecuador – Quito and Cotopaxi Secret Garden
• Week 2  – Ecuador – Quilotoa and Baños 
• Week 3 – Ecuador – Guayaquil and Galapagos Islands
• Week 4 – Peru – Lima, Paracas and Huacachina
• Week 5 – Peru – Arequipa and Colca Canyon
• Week 6  – Peru – Cusco and Machu Picchu
• Week 7  – Bolivia – Copacabana and La Paz
• Week 8  – Bolivia – Amazon and Uyuni Salt Flats
• Week 9 – Chile – Atacama and Santiago
• Week 10 – Chile – Torres Del Paine National Park
• Week 11 – Argentina – El Calafate and El Chalten
• Week 12 – Argentina – Buenos Aires and Iguazu Falls 

+ ticks off almost all of best sights in South America including Machu Picchu, Galapagos Islands, the Amazon, Salt Flats, Patagonia and Iguazu Falls.

– moving at a much faster pace and which may be stressful for some

– more expensive compared to first itinerary outlined above as more countries and places means more flights

– Galapagos Islands in Ecuador and Patagonia add around $1500 to your budget.

Is This The Best Backpack For South America?

I love the Osprey Farpoint 50-70L.

It’s reasonably priced and perfect for first timers visiting South America.

Read more here about why it’s so great or head to the official site below:

Week 1-3 - Ecuador

Week 1 - Quito and Cotopaxi

This 3-month itinerary follows the same route as the one outlined above but with more places cut out to allow you to visit 5 countries instead of 3.

Start by spending 3-4 days in Quito . To make the most of three days in Quito, start by exploring the historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can visit iconic landmarks like the La Compañía Church and the Independence Square.

Then, take the Teleférico up to the base of Pichincha Volcano for stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Pichincha Volcano is one my favourite treks in South America and if you are an experienced hiker, I always recommend it as a good trek to acclimatise to the altitude in Ecuador. 

Then spend 2-3 days at Secret Garden Cotopaxi to complete this first week in South America.

If you stay at Secret Garden Hostel in Quito, they have a free shuttle bus that takes you to Secret Garden Cotopaxi. This is one of my favourite hostels in Quito, but if you want to see a full list, head to the post below:

• The 10 Best Hostels In Quito

Week 2 - Quilotoa and Banos

The Quilotoa Loop is still do-able on this 3-month itinerary and well worth including. 

There are some great hostels along the loop including Lulu Llama which has a hot tub and their own resident llamas. Make sure you check it out!

Alternatively, if you aren’t and fan of trekking and would like to spend your time somewhere else, you can easily visit the Quilotoa Crater for a day. 

In Banos, spend your time in the same way as outlined in the previous itinerary – riding the route of waterfalls, white-water rafting and relaxing in the thermal baths. 

Week 3 - Guayaquil and The Galapagos Islands

You have 5-6 days total on the Galapagos islands which gives you enough time to see two islands.

Flying into San Cristobal  is better as the town is a 5-minute taxi ride from the airport (compared to a 45-minute journey on Santa Cruz).

Start by exploring the island on your first day. You can walk to many of the best places which include museums, secluded beaches, and viewpoints . Aim to visit the Interpretation Centre, Cerro Tijeretas and Playa Punta Carola. On the second day, book a tour to take you to see the highlands where you’ll find the Giant Tortoise Sanctuary.  

The second island, Santa Cruz, is the more developed of the three main islands. The town has more restaurants and bars to enjoy, and a greater diversity of natural areas so you can spend more time exploring here.

Here you’ll find Tortuga Bay. A  secluded beach surrounded by mangrove trees. Along the beach, you can see marine iguanas crawling out of the sea and up onto the beach to warm up. If you go snorkelling, you’ll be able to find baby sharks, rays, and turtles in the mangroves. 

The Galapagos Islands are such a magical place. It’s a shame travellers are put off by the price. Check out the post below to see how to do visit whilst sticking to a budget:

• 13 Tips To Visit The Galapagos Islands On A Budget

Weeks 4-6 - Peru

Week 4 - Lima, Paracas and Huacachina

Same as with Ecuador, follow the same route we have outlined in the first itinerary but skip over a couple of places. Personally, I would skip Huaraz unless you are hiking fanatic. It requires a return flight from Lima which adds admin and cost. 

Take a couple of days in Lima .  Check out the trendy bars in Barranco and try a Pisco Sour at Ayahuasca Bar.  This is also the best try to try ceviche seeing as you’re on the coast. It will have been caught fresh from the ocean. 

Then feel free to split your time between Paracas and Huacachina . If you are looking to do something different, rent ATV’s and ride around the desert in Paracas. 

Week 5 - Arequipa and Colca Canyon

Take 2-3 days in Arequipa. If you are visiting during Peru’s summer then I recommend staying at Selina. Aside from the top quality dorms and co-working spaces, the hostel is set within a beautiful garden with an outside pool. It’s one of my favourite hostels in South America.

Another great thing to do whilst in Arequipa is check out the traditional restaurants called picanterias . These are traditional, family run restaurants that will serve some of the best food you’ll try in Peru. 

For more on these restaurants along with the best cafes and breakfast spots, click the link below:

• The Best Restaurants In Arequipa

Week 6 - Cusco and Machu Picchu

This itinerary doesn’t include the Salkantay Trek but it can easily be included if you want. 

The alternative way to get to Macchu Picchu is either by bus or train.  I always recommend the train as it only takes 3 hours in comparison to the bus which takes 9 (meaning you lose an entire day). The train will drop you off in the town of Aguas Calientes (the closest town to Machu Picchu).

Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, take the evening to relax and get an early night in preparation for Machu Picchu.

Early the next morning, it’s finally time to climb the 1,600+ stairs up to Peru’s most popular tourist attraction – Machu Picchu.

When you need to leave depends on what time ticket you purchased. However, I would recommend trying to get a 6:00 AM ticket which is the earliest entry possible. Most people wake up around 4.30AM and wait outside the gates from 5:00 AM.

When the gates open you can start the hike. The alternative is to wait and take the bus which will get you to the top quicker. Either way, you’ll be one of the first people into Machu Picchu, catching the sunrise and largely having the place to yourself (at least for half an hour, until it becomes packed).

After you have finished at Machu Picchu, you can either spend another night in Aguas Calientes or return to Cusco. 

Check out our shorter Peru itineraries for more detail so you can decide which places suit you the best and which ones to skip:

• Peru Three Week Backpacking Itinerary

Weeks 7-8 - Bolivia

Don’t change anything from the previous itinerary. The Amazon and Salar De Uyuni are two experiences that can’t be missed.

If you want to extend your time in Bolivia then places like Torotoro National Park and Sucre are hidden gems that are off the usual backpacker trail, so feel free to add them in if you like that sort of thing:

• The Best Things To Do In Sucre
• How To Visit Torotoro National Park

Do You want Cheap Data Anywhere In South America?

Airalo is my favourite eSIM for travelling around South America. Here’s why:

• Save Money – No more high roaming bills with access to the best eSIMs (digital SIM cards) for every country in South America!
• Easy – No more stress trying to buy a physical SIM. You can download and install a data pack and get connected as soon as you land. 

Weeks 9-10 - Chile

Week 9 - Atacama Desert And Santiago

A Salar De Uyuni Tour drops you on the border between Atacama and Bolivia.

All you need to do is take a 45-minute bus from the border to the town. Once here we recommend renting a jeep and exploring even more high-altitude lakes, volcanoes, and geysers.

Or if you don’t want to rent a jeep you can book tours. We highly recommend the stargazing tour – you can see the Milky Way in the desert because the night sky is so clear.

After a couple of days in the desert, fly down to Santiago for the standard city escape with walking tours and museums. 

3-4 days in the Atacama Desert with your own 4×4 jeep is the perfect escape from guided tours. You can explore at your own pace and stay at your favourite sights for as long as you want. To see how to do this, head to the post below:

• An Adventure-Filled Atacama Desert 4-Day Itinerary

Week 10 - Torres Del Paine National Park

From Santiago, you’ll need to take a 3 hour flight  down south to Puerto Natales. This is the closest town to Torres Del Paine National Park and where your adventures into the park will start from. 

After you arrive, take a day to organise yourself and purchase any last equipment you need before embarking on the 5-day W-trek in Torres Del Paine National Park.

Time to end your time in Chile with one of the best multi-day treks in the world – the W-trek in Torres Del Paine National Park.

This 5-day self-guided trek takes you in the shape of a W – in, out, and around the beautiful Cordillera Paine mountain range.

The trek is relatively easy with the first two days taking you on an easy 3–4-hour hike past Lago Grey up to the stunning Grey Glacier. Then on the final day, you will trek up to the famous towers of Torres Del Paine.

A lot of people wake up at 3:00 AM to start trekking to reach the towers for sunrise. If the weather is good then it is definitely worth it, as the three towers are lit up perfectly by the morning sun.

If you don’t have 3 months to spare, see how this part of the itinerary can be done in a month instead:

• The Definitive 1-Month Chile, Bolivia & Argentina Itinerary

Week 11-12 - Argentina

Week 11 - El Calafate And El Chalten

You are a 5-hour bus and border crossing away from Argentina and the town of El Calafate.

Take an early morning bus from Puerto Natales so you arrive early afternoon. From here you explore the town and plan your visit to Parque Nacional Los Glaciares  and the epic Perito Moreno Glacier.

You can take in the views of this huge chunk of ice from the visitor centre or take a boat to get a up close and personal. If you are lucky, you may catch a chunk of ice falling off and crashing into the water below.

For the second part of this week, spend your time in El Chalten. Thiss town is known as the “Trekking Capital of Argentina”. You will have your pick of hikes from single day to multi-day options that take you into the beautiful Patagonian wilderness and Glacier National Park. 

One of the most iconic single day hikes is the Laguna de los Tres hike, popular for the sublime panoramic views it offers of Glaciar de Los Tres and Mount Fitz Roy. You can hike out-and-back to Laguna de Los Tres from El Chaltén in one day, but a popular option is to camp overnight near the lagoon and witness a fantastic sunrise the following morning.

Week 12 - Bariloche And Buenos Aires

Nestled amidst the picturesque Andes Mountains, Bariloche offers a stunning display of natural beauty. From snow-capped peaks to crystal-clear lakes and lush forests , the landscape is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Surrounding the town are several must-visit spots that provide panoramic views of the region’s mountains, lake and forests, making it a favourite among photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Bariloche serves as a gateway to the Nahuel Huapi National Park , a vast protected area brimming with diverse flora and fauna. The park is perfect for trekking, birdwatching, and exploring the pristine wilderness. Don’t miss the chance to visit the array of islands within the Nahuel Huapi Lake, accessible by boat excursions.

You are nearly at the end of this 3-Month South America itinerary but there’s still so much fun to be had. 

Now it’s time for a few days in one of the best capitals on the continent.  Buenos Aires is known as the “Paris of South America,” as it feels like your visiting a European capital.

Go and experience the city’s famous tango dancing, visit the colourful neighbourhood of La Boca or take a boat tour of the Rio de la Plata.

For more on why Bariloche is such a fantastic place to visit and spend time in, head to the post below:

• Is Bariloche Worth Visiting? 10 Great Reasons To Visit Argentina’s Lake District

3-Month South America Budget Backpacking Itinerary Options

The Galapagos Islands and Patagonia make this 3-month itinerary much more expensive than the first one. If you can’t afford this part of the trip, then cut out both and replace them with cheaper parts of South America.

Instead of the Galapagos Islands, spend longer in mainland Ecuador. Instead of Patagonia, a cheaper option is to head into North Argentina after the Atacama Desert. 

The north of Argentina is a hidden gem untouched by tourism, so everything is cheap and you get all the sights to yourself.

The closest town from Atacama is Salta – a 10 hour bus ride. From here you can follow the wine route south to El Cafayate and  Mendoza , where you will find Argentina’s best wine region. 

For more on the north of Argentina, check out the guide below:

• The Essential North Argentina Backpacking Itinerary

How Much Money Do You Need To Backpack South America For 3 Months?

For three months backpacking in South America, I would recommend bringing $6000.

Your basic monthly budget will be $1500. This gives you $50 a day a for accommodation, food, transport and basic activities like day tours. Then I recommend taking an extra $500 for each month for flights and bigger activities and tours that cost more such as Machu Picchu and the Amazon.

A week on the Galapagos Islands costs a little more – around $500 for the flights, entrance fees and higher costs for food and accommodation on the island. However, Ecuador is so cheap you’ll spread that cost out over the month. 

Luckily, because you are only visiting three countries, you can do most journeys via local buses or overnight buses and avoid costly flights. The only two you’ll need is the flight from Ecuador to Peru, and then an internal one from Uyuni to La Paz before you return home.

Machu Picchu, Amazon tours and Salt Flat tours can cost anywhere between $150-250. The best way to get these cheap is to book in person and haggle. Online prices are always  over inflated in South America. 

Here’s a breakdown of a 3-month budget for South America:

For the second 3-month itinerary on this list that includes Patagonia, I would recommend taking $7500. This is due to the additional flights you need to take and the fact that visiting Patagonia is one of the most expensive things to do in South America. 

Check out this budget guide to help you plan your spending whilst travelling South America:

• How To Budget For A Month In South America

When Is The Best Time To Visit South America?

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Popular South America Itineraries

If you have more than two-weeks to spare then why not check out our other South America itineraries ranging from three weeks to three months:

• 5 Expertly Curated Three-Week South America Itineraries
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Joe Bayfield

Hi I'm Joe Bayfield, Bayf for short. I love South America and want people to visit this incredible continent. I’ve travelled through Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina and also lived in Lima, Medellin and Buenos Aires. I write detailed South America itineraries to help you plan your next adventure!

Travel South America Like A pro

Travel South America Like An Expert

Where to Travel in Southeast Asia for 3 Months

If you’ve only got three months, this Southeast Asia itinerary will take you through the region’s best bits—both the highlights and the hidden gems.

When you tell your friends you’re leaving to “backpack Southeast Asia,” they’ll probably envision you in harem pants, partying with fire dancers on Thai beaches.

Your parents probably think you’re off to volunteer caring for elephants or teaching Cambodian kids English. And you’re probably getting excited to break some serious boundaries—like summiting mountains, eating scorpions in night markets and practicing your meditation from temples.

The truth is that it’ll probably be an amalgamation of it all—and Southeast Asia is a sunny, culturally diverse and cheap ( like really cheap ) place to do it all.

When I say Southeast Asia, I’m talking specifically about Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia. While there are other plenty of other countries in the region, there are time constraints when traveling Asia for just three months.

Meanwhile, in the “core four,” and with this Southeast Asia itinerary, you can travel freely without having to book tickets in advance.

Southeast Asia is often touted as a backpacker’s haven, likely because you and other travelers are spoiled for choice when it comes to hostels. There are also clearly defined routes that run throughout the region, and most backpackers in the area are heading in the same general direction, which means making travel buddies in those hostels is easy.

There is no need for flights because day and night buses between all of these countries are simple and cheap, and hitchhiking is even common due to the population of backpackers.

And, for the more experienced backpacker who feels comfortable venturing off the beaten path, there’s more to Southeast Asia than the standard route. It’s stupidly simple to rent a motorbike for days on end and explore these countries without seeing others for days.

If you’ve only got three months, this itinerary will take you through the best bits and hidden gems.

Thailand: One Month

Thailand should be your first stop since Bangkok’s airport, Suvarnabhumi Airport, is the largest hub in and out of Southeast Asia. Most international flights will fly into there. More than 35 million people visited Thailand in 2017, which means that the country caters to tourists, and you’ll have an easier time navigating the different cities and finding accommodation in each place.

If you have never been to Asia before, Bangkok will induce serious culture shock, but embrace it; you’re not in Kansas anymore, Dorothy.

Your one month in Thailand is going to be all about visiting temple ruins, trekking through the jungles and consuming fresh, fragrant foods. You will see, hear, smell and taste things you’ve never experienced before and you will be immersed in a new and fascinating culture. Say yes to everything (except maybe “Ping Pong” shows… just trust me).

Day 1-3: Bangkok

As you travel from the airport into city (I recommend the tram) you’ll be hit with an explosion of color and sound. Multi-colored taxis honk as they swerve across five-lane highways, while motorcycles transporting entire families weave through the traffic. It’s chaos, and it’s a little overwhelming, but it’s exciting.

I have friends who have planned trips to Thailand and banked on spending a week in Bangkok at the beginning to ‘get their bearings.’ Don’t do this. Bangkok is absolutely incredible, but a week here is too long simply because there are better places to spend your time .

I recommend spending just a few days here exploring. You’ll want to check out the Wat Pho Temple , one of the largest temple complexes in the city known for its 151-foot-tall reclining, gold-leaf Buddha. Shopping in the Chatuchak Market could consume an entire day.

If you’re in the mood to party, spend the night bar hopping in Soi Cowboy , a street made famous by The Hangover that offers live music dive bars, clubs and go-go bars to a crowd of travelers and expatriates alike. One night should also be dedicated to Khao San Road , Bangkok’s most famous party street.

While you’re in Bangkok, it’s worth getting lost in the streets of skyscrapers to check out the hundreds of food stalls selling chicken skewers and scorpions and pla pao erupting with smells that could alone sate an appetite. There are also floating markets during the weekends and tons of biking trails to be discovered.

Day 4-11: East Coast Islands or West Coast Islands

Had your fill of the city? Now, it’s time to head south and hit Thailand’s world-renowned beaches. You can take buses and trains down south, and trains are usually more scenic. Choose either the East Coast ( Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Koh Phangan ) or the West Coast ( Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, Phuket ) and island hop.

Just keep in mind that monsoon season will be affecting one side, while the other is sunny. It typically lasts from July to October and typically dominates the southwest—so if you go during those months, you may want to choose the eastern islands instead.

The islands are super simple to hop, as ferries run regularly between them for decent prices. You don’t need to plan or buy tickets in advance either.

On the West Coast, the more famous Ko Phi Phi Leh , an island of the Phi Phi Archipelago in the Krabi Province, was made famous by Leonardo Dicaprio’s The Beach. If that’s not reason to visit, its bath-temperature waters will be begging you to swim.

But also be sure to take a day trip from one of the main islands to Koh Hai or Koh Yao Yai . These islands are far less developed than their neighbors and boast amazing opportunities for cliff jumping, snorkeling, hiking, and swimming.

Meanwhile, the East Coast’s Koh Phangan is home to the world famous Full Moon Party. This is not for everyone. It’s 30,000 people covered in neon paint drinking questionable concoctions from buckets on the beach. But for party-people, this is heaven.

If you’re not interested in the Full Moon Party, there are plenty of smaller parties on the islands, including the Half Moon Party and Lost in Paradise, among regular nightly beach parties with fire dancers.

You should also take the opportunity to get your PADI diving license on Koh Tao . It’s one of the cheapest places on the planet to do it and the diving there is unparalleled. Or, if you’d rather keep on terra firma, trek through the jungle to find the Na Muang Waterfall on Koh Samui .

Day 12-16: Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is well known for its role in World War II. It is the site of the Death Railway, a tragic railroad that was built under Japanese orders to connect Thailand and Burma. The Japanese used prisoners of war and civilian laborers to construct the railway in hellish conditions. Malnourishment, tropical diseases and poor safety on site led to the deaths of over 100,000 people.

Nowadays, you can ride along the Railway from Kanchanaburi to Nam Tok and learn about the history of this region for an adventure through time.

While you’re here, take a walk across the bridge over the River Kwai. From the bridge, there are beautiful views of the river and the floating accommodations that line its banks. Other popular activities worth doing include exploring the Erawan National Park , canoeing along the River Kwai, trekking through the jungle and bamboo rafting.

Day 17-22: Chiang Mai

As you meet people along your travels you will hear the same place muttered over and over again: Chiang Mai. It’s up north, but it makes the most sense to start working your way back north since the next country on your list, Laos, will be easier to enter up there.

So let’s start with Chiang Mai, a little city is a universal favorite with travelers and recognized as the digital nomad capital of the world.

In fact, you’ll meet a lot of Westerners in Chiang Mai who visited once years ago and never left. It is the kind of place that sucks you in and captivates you.

There is a lot to see and do in Chiang Mai and, because of its leisurely pace, you won’t want to rush. So, give yourself at least five days here.

Chiang Mai is the hub of adventure activities in Thailand . Here, you will find ziplining, jungle treks ATV riding and a whole lot more. These adventure tours are usually very reasonably priced and include transfers and lunch. In the evenings, head to the night bazaar in the city center and gorge on freshly cooked Thai street food.

For example, you could fly through the treetops and see the Mae Kampong Falls and, if you’re lucky, elusive wild gibbons. Or you could spend an entire day trekking up Doi Inthanon , Thailand’s tallest mountain.

Important Heads Up

If you want to spend time with elephants in Chiang Mai then do your research. While there are some legitimate elephant sanctuaries around, there are also a lot of sham sanctuaries (learn more about that here ). Elephant Nature Park is the only rescue center that I can comfortably recommend, as it comes highly recommended by experts for its ethics and I’ve been there myself.

The same thing goes for Tiger sanctuaries. You might have seen people on Instagram posing with cuddly, subdued tigers. The tigers look this way because they have been drugged. Err on the side of caution and give the tigers a miss altogether if you don’t want to contribute to animal abuse.

Day 21-26: Pai

Pai is a quiet town in northern Thailand, which can be used as a base for trekking adventures. Northern Thailand is hill country covered with lush green grass and rice paddies. From Pai, you can take a day trip to the Mae Yen or Huay Chang Waterfalls or you can go for something more hardcore like a five-day trek through the entire region .

In the Huay Nam Dang National Park , Soppong and Mae Hong Son also have plenty of hiking routes to explore. If you have the stamina, there are multi-day treks in these areas, some of which include bamboo or white water rafting. While you’re trekking, you’ll have the chance to drop in to hill-tribe villages, small communes of Thais who still maintain a traditional way of living. Think straw huts and tribal outfits.

Day 27-30: Chiang Rai

As you make your way to Laos, make a brief stop in Chiang Rai It’s home to the exceptionally beautiful White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), an all-white, spiky building that looks like its made of icicles. It’s also surrounded by outstanding natural beauty—think tea plantations and rivers. Grab a bike and cycle around the area to get a taste for what life is like in this northern region.

To immerse yourself fully in nature, there is a treetop walk that stretches through the sublime Mae Fah Luang Gardens in Doi Tung. You can share a taxi with others for about an hour ride from Chiang Rai, and you’ll find signs for the walk not far into the gardens. From the walk’s aerial vantage point, there are spectacular views of the gardens along with a mild adrenaline rush from being suspended 100 feet in the air.

When you’ve walked the whole route, come down and enjoy the gardens from ground level. Entrance to the garden and the treetop walk combined comes to around $7.

Laos: Two Weeks

From Thailand, Laos is just a hop, skip and a really long boat ride across the border. If you thought you had gotten used to Southeast Asia after a month in Thailand, think again. Laos is a whole new ball game and, while it might only be next door, you are still going to experience some culture shock when you arrive.

One thing you should know about Laos is that there are no trains. You will have to get around by bus, which would be fine, were the roads in Laos a little… better developed. It’s all part of the adventure and being jolted around in a bus for a few hours is a small price to pay to experience Laos.

To get from Thailand to Laos, you either need to sit on a boat for two days or in a minivan for 14 hours. Neither is ideal, but both will leave you with a handful of interesting stories.

Day 31-33: Vientiane

Compared to Bangkok, Vientiane is child’s play. It is quiet, easy-going and small. Despite the fact that it’s the capital, you really won’t need long here to cover the bulk of the city’s attractions. Once you’ve got your culture fix at the Museum of Lao Art, the Lao National Museum and the Wat Simuang Temple , head out to Vientiane’s outskirts for some nature.

Xieng Khuan , a meadow filled with Buddha statues,is a popular day trip from Vientiane. Otherwise, the Ang Nam Ngum Reservoir is an idyllic spot for camping, hiking and paddling around in boats. That’s the capital city covered.

Day 34-36: Vang Vieng

From Vientiane, head north in the direction of Vang Vieng. This once notorious backpacker hub is now a lot more chilled since tubing has been banned . The town is a ghost of its former self—that’s exactly why you should visit.

Nowadays, there are no more Chads chugging beers and wearing lurid vests. It’s peaceful, beautiful and tubing is still on the cards—it’s just way calmer than it used to be. Enjoy a beer as you float along the river and soak up the stunning views of the jungle around you.

While you are in Vang Vieng you should go hot air ballooning (the photo above is all the convincing you ought to need). Also check out the Blue Lagoon and Cave . The water that feeds into this lagoon comes from the mountains and is a beautiful turquoise color. There are swings that hang from the trees over the lagoon.

Don’t forget to take a walk around the cave, too! All of these sites will be easy to visit by motorbike on your own or by setting up tours at your hostel or with travel companies in the center city.

Day 37-40: Luang Prabang

Deservedly on the UNESCO World Heritage list, Luang Prabang is a charming city in the northern part of Laos. A lot of people are tempted to miss out Luang Prabang because it is too far North. Don’t miss it out. It may well turn out to be your favorite place in Southeast Asia.

The number one sight in Luang Prabang is the stunning  Kuang Si Waterfalls . You can swim at the top of these cascading falls that tumble into more tiered pools of crystal clear water. It’s best enjoyed visiting on your own, as opposed to going with a tour that’ll rush you through it. Consider renting a motorbike because it’s a relatively easy drive.

If you still have energy to expend after the waterfalls, you might want to climb the 355 steps to the top of Mount Phousi . OK, it’s not exactly a mountain, but the views from the top are insane. You’ll see the mighty Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers that carve through the vivid green scenery and the houses and huts that pepper the landscape.

Day 41-44: Phongsali

In the mountains of northern Laos sits Phongsali, the capital of Laos’ northernmost province. Although the town itself is reasonably large, you won’t find many other travelers here. If you were looking to get off the beaten path, this is the place to do it. By way of stimulation, there’s not a whole lot going on in Phongsali. But, that’s not why you came.

You come to Phongsali to breathe in the fresh mountain air, look at the stars at night and fall asleep to the cries of nature. And, above all, you come to Phongsali to trek. Set out on foot and explore the gorgeous scenery that flanks the town on all sides. Delve deep into the wilderness and seek out some of the secret hill-tribe villages.

BONUS: 4,000 Islands

If you happen to have more time in Laos because you opted to skip one of the above or you’d spent less time than you anticipated in one of them, you should check out the 4,000 Islands. You can catch an overnight bus to the 4,000 Islands from most major cities like Vientiane or Vang Vieng.

The overnight buses will take you to a town called Pakse, where you’ll have to catch another tourist bus to the port to the islands in Ban Nakasong. It’s about a three-hour journey. Once you’re there, you can decide between Don Det or Don Khong , connected via a bridge.

I recommend checking out both Don Det and Don Khong if you have the time. Don Det offers higher-end guesthouses and attracts an older crowd. But it boasts the beautifully cascading Liphi Waterfalls , where you can spot fresh-water dolphins.

Don Khong is the biggest of the 4,000 islands and is a sleepy hippie haven peppered with hostels and inexpensive guesthouses. It has tons of riverfront bars and restaurants, too.

Vietnam: Three Weeks

Just when you thought you’d adjusted to the lazy pace of Laos, it’s time to shake things up again. Welcome to Vietnam. Despite still bearing the visible scars of its conflict with the US, Vietnam is a thriving country with modern cities.

I’ll admit, one thing that plagued me before I touched down in Vietnam was how the Vietnamese would treat me given the fact that I’m American. Honestly, I had no problems.

The older generation occasionally gave me disapproving looks but, as a whole, people were super friendly—especially young people. Just try not to be too American while you’re there , if you get what I mean.

Vietnam is the perfect mixture of urban and rural, and it’s teeming with man-made and natural beauty. There’s a lot to see in this country and, in three weeks, you’ll barely scratch the surface. But, that’s all the more reason to go back someday.

Day 45-47: Sapa

Your first stop on your journey through this beautiful and historically fascinating country will be Sapa. It will also, most likely, be your most beautiful stop. But, be aware that the climate in Sapa is a lot cooler than what you’ve experienced so far due to the altitude. Wrap up warm and bring some waterproofs.

As you emerge from the fog that often blankets Sapa, the world will suddenly be tinged with green. Terraced rice paddies sit one on top of the other, verdant and pristine. This is what happens when people work in tandem with Mother Nature. Spend your time here trekking through hill-tribe villages and dosing up on fresh, clean air.

Day 48-51: Hanoi

Home to over four million motorcycles, Hanoi thrums with energy and simply crossing the road is an adventure in itself. It’s Vietnam’s capital city and is, in itself, a historical relic.

Yet, while the streets are chaotic, the parks and plaza are oddly serene. French style architecture can be found throughout the city, as well as bakeries selling French pastries—remnants from their colonial rule.

Take it slow in Hanoi. Hire a bike and cycle around the Hoan Kiem Lake, or just walk if you don’t trust yourself on two wheels near a body of water. Cross the bridge that leads to the middle of the lake and visit the temple there. I also recommend paying your respects at Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, an impressive building fit for such a respected military leader.

Day 52-53: Halong Bay

Pretty much everyone who goes to Vietnam goes on a cruise of Halong Bay. While I usually advocate avoiding places heaving with tourists, Halong Bay is an exception.

Boat tours go out in the bay for days at a time, laden with adventurers who want to admire the pinnacles up close. If somehow you haven’t already seen photos of Halong Bay, it consists of dozens of jagged green islands that plunge up out of the water. Each island has sheer walls densely covered with vegetation and the whole place has a prehistoric feel to it.

There’s not much to do here other than sitting on a boat and enjoy yourself. You can sign up with Halong Bay tours through your hostel, which I recommend over sometimes dodgy and overpriced tour companies in the city.

Day 54-56: Hoi An

Head a little further south and you’ll hit Hoi An. Most people will take the train to Danang and a cab from there, but there are also minivans that pass through the Hai Van Tunnel. This is the longest tunnel in Southeast Asia, stretching a staggering four miles.

Once you arrive in Hoi An, you are likely to be approached straight away by someone trying to sell you custom-made clothes. Hoi An is the tailoring capital of Vietnam and, if you were looking to get a bespoke suit or dress made for a fraction of what you would pay back home, you need look no further.

Strolling through Hoi An, you’ll encounter the Japanese Bridge , the Fukian Assembly Hall and lots of beautiful, old buildings. I recommend hiring a bike for a couple of dollars and cycling through the city and out into the rice paddies. Again, motorbikes are easy to rent here and the freedom is worth the extra money for a few days.

Day 57-60: Nha Trang

Nha Trang is the most popular beach spot in Vietnam. Given that you haven’t been on the beach since the Thai Islands over a month ago, you should treat yourself to a bit of sea and sand here. A few days is all you need to check out the highlights and top up on your tan before you carry on your journey through Vietnam.

You’ll notice a lot of dive shops all over Nha Trang. The diving here is excellent and the prices are reasonable. Whether you’re a qualified Dive Master or have never so much as seen an oxygen tank before, you should spend a morning diving here.

Now, this is a bit of a guilty pleasure but, after months of temples and cultures, it is certainly justified. In Nha Trang you will find Vinpearl , one of Southeast Asia’s premier theme parks. Sitting on its own little island, the park has a safari, water park, golf resort, spa and just about anything else you could think of.

Theme parks may not be the most culturally enlightening experience, but whoever said travel had to be all about culture? This is guaranteed to be a day of seriously good fun.

Day 61-62: Mui Ne

Mui Ne is the driest place in Southeast Asia. Although the region is just four hours by train from Ho Chi Minh City, it feels like you’ve just been transported out to the Sahara. You only need a day here to experience it; it really is just sand dunes as far as the eye can see.

Visiting Mui Ne is worth it though. Get up at the crack of dawn and watch the sunrise over the dunes. Then rev up a quad bike and prepare for action. Racing around these dunes is a cool experience that will get the adrenaline pumping before breakfast.

Day 63-66: Ho Chi Minh City

Finally, you’ve made it right down to the bottom of Vietnam, to the commercial hub of the country: Ho Chi Minh City. You might be more familiar with the city’s previous name, Saigon. During the Vietnam War, this city played a pivotal role in the military developments and eventually fell to the communists, ending the war entirely.

The city is an interesting mixture of old and new, with modern business centers sitting side by side with colonial churches. The post office in downtown Ho Chi Minh City is one of the best-preserved examples of colonial architecture.

To get a taste of HCMC’s history, check out the War Remnants Museum . Getting to see the Vietnamese perspective of that notorious war is both interesting and valuable.

When you’re ready for adventure, leave the city and travel to the Mekong Delta for a day. Here, you can float along the river, explore floating markets and even try your hand at fishing.

Cambodia: Three Weeks

Your final country on your journey through Southeast Asia is Cambodia. Yet again, you’re going to need to readjust to a completely different culture. Vietnam and Cambodia might be neighbors, but they are startlingly different.

Cambodia moves at a slower pace to its neighbors and it is noticeably less developed. Just like in Laos, your primary modes of transport here are going to be buses, minivans and, this time, tuk-tuks. But, don’t worry, everywhere in Cambodia is well connected and, given that it is such a compact country, it’s reasonably easy to pack a lot into three weeks.

Day 67-70: Phnom Penh

For a capital city, Phnom Penh will seem exceptionally quiet. There are no crowded freeways or mega-malls with glitzy billboards like in Bangkok. Instead, you’ll find dirt roads laden with street vendors and tuk-tuks, and rickety shacks filled with local snacks (and Oreos—you can find Oreos everywhere).

Phnom Penh has a turbulent past. The year 1979 marked the end of Pol Pot’s bloody dictatorship that ordered a systematic genocide of the Khmer people. The regime slaughtered an estimated three million people.

The Tuol Sleng Killing Fields Museum and the Killing Fields are two important sites for those wishing to understand more about Pol Pot’s regime.

Tuol Sleng , a former high school turned concentration camp, is still in the exact state it was when the Vietnamese liberated Cambodia. It is a macabre and harrowing place to visit, but it’s worth the trip to understand just how brutal Cambodia’s dictatorship was.

Even if you’re not a history buff, the genocide was relatively recent and most Cambodians living today have lost family and friends during it. Understanding what happened will help you to understand the country and its people living today, too.

Day 71-74: Kampot

Kampot is where people come to kick back and relax. But, there are still activities on offer if you’ve got itchy feet. Or hire a kayak for the day and paddle through the mangroves and tributaries of the Kampot River.

As you move along the water, you’ll catch a glimpse of life on the banks of the river. For the rural villages that flank that waterway, the Kampot River is a lifeblood around which they have built their lifestyle. Then simply stroll or cycle through the town and along the edge of the water. Nothing moves fast here so neither should you.

Day 75-80: Sihanoukville & Koh Rong

Time for some more beach—and this time it will be even cheaper than anything you’ve experienced before. In Sihanoukville you can live like royalty for less than $20 each day. Cambodia might not have much of a coastline, but what it does have will blow you away.

Not keen on lying on the beach all day? Watersports are the main attraction for thrill-seekers in this part of the country. Diving, windsurfing and kitesurfing are all on the menu here. Fortunately, the water there is delightfully warm so you don’t need to squeeze yourself into a wetsuit if you don’t want to.

While here, be sure to spend at least a few days on the island of Koh Rong . Far less developed than the Thai islands, Koh Rong still has an element of wild about it. Sure, there are bars and resorts, but there are also patches of untouched natural beauty and utter tranquility.

Day 81-83: Battambang

Also known as Cambodia’s rice bowl, Battambang is a photographer’s mecca. That is, if you go to the right places. Less than 7.5 miles out of town is Phnom Sampeau , a large hill with a temple on top. The temple itself is nothing to write home about. But turn 180 degrees and there are magnificent views of the rice fields. They’re green as far as the eye can see.

Phnom Sampeau is also home to more sobering sites, including the Killing Caves . Just as the name suggests, these caves saw the deaths of thousands of regime dissenters during Pol Pot’s rule. Not for the faint-hearted, the caves display the skulls of hundreds of victims who’d lost their lives here.

If the Killing Caves are too chilling to experience, the nearby Bat Cave should be a more light-hearted experience. In the evening, hundreds of bats fly from the caves in what is quite an astonishing natural spectacle. Once they are all out of the cave, you are free to go in and explore.

Day 84-86: Tonle Sap Lake

The Tonle Sap Lake is the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia. It’s depended on by over a million Cambodians. In fact, it’s the lifeline for some Cambodians, who bathe in, use it as a bathroom, illegally fish in it, wash their dishes and clothes in it, and even drink from it. At the level of poverty that hits Tonle Sap Lake.

There are tours that’ll allow you to hop in a canoe and float through the stilted villages that sit on top of the water (read about my experience doing just that here ), but I recommend only visiting to educate yourself —don’t contribute to poverty tourism in Asia.

Of course, part of the adventure is to learn about how other people live. But remember: These people’s home are essentially on display for tourists who travel to Cambodia, an incredible luxury that many of them will never be afforded.

Day 87-90: Siem Reap

Wow. After three months of adventure in Southeast Asia you have finally come to your last stop—and, what a way to end the trip. Siem Reap is home to, among other things , the most famous collection of ruins in Asia, and possibly the world: Angkor Wat .

The Cambodians built it somewhere between A.D. 1113 and 1150, and about two million people visit to revel in its storied history each year.

There’s a lot to learn about this temple, dubbed the most spiritual temple in the world. Originally a Hindu temple, the Cambodian’s dedicated this one to the god Vishnu, and they added Buddha effigies in the 14th century.

People also generally accept that Angkor Wat was a funerary temple for King Suryavarman II, who built it to mark the capital of the Khmer Empire as his state temple and eventual mausoleum.

Some people just spend a day at Angkor Wat. I wholeheartedly advise you to dedicate at least two days to it though. You need it to really understand its magnitude.

If you visit for just the sunset around 5 p.m., you can get in for free. Then use your ticket again for the following day. But you must get your ticket from an office a short drive away from the temple itself. Make sure you buy your ticket before heading to the temple.

While sunset is gorgeous, sunrise at Angkor Wat is famous for a reason. On day one, get up while it’s still dark and make your way to the temple complex. Get there in time to see the sunrise over Angkor Wat and the lily lake. It’s a phenomenal sight

Spend the rest of the day and the following day exploring the dozens of temples.

Cambodian Temples to Visit

• Bayon : Fifty-four gigantic stone faces with creepy smiles fill the Khmer temple. Architects built it in the late 12th or early 13th century. It was the official state temple of the Mahayana Buddhist King Jayavarman VII.
• Ta Phrom : Architects built it in the Bayon style in the late 12th and early 13th century. Today, thick tree roots cover it, and it was the set of the film, Tomb Raider.
• Banteay Srei : Dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva is this 10th-century temple. Intricate, beautiful carvings decorate it.
• Preah Khan : Architects built this one in the 12th century for King Jayavarman VII to honor his father. Today’s it’s one of the largest and least-restored temples.

And that concludes your journey through Southeast Asia. You’ll make your way back to Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok and fly home from there. As the international hub of Southeast Asia, this is where you’ll find the cheapest flights.

And while this itinerary is detailed, remember that it should only be used as a guideline. Part of the beauty of backpacking through Southeast Asia is having the freedom to be spontaneous.

If you want to take a detour via a temple you’ve heard about, do it. If a national park keeps getting recommended to you by other travelers, see it!

After all, that’s what adventure is all about.

Let us know in the comments what you’re most excited about!

Southeast Asia Itinerary FAQs

How long do you need to travel southeast asia.

You can take anywhere from a week to several months to travel Southeast Asia.

How much should I budget for 4 weeks in Southeast Asia?

You should be able to spend 4 weeks in Southeast Asia for around $1500.

What is the cheapest country in Southeast Asia?

Thailand is one of the cheapest countries in Southeast Asia.

Is Southeast Asia cheaper than Mexico?

Southeast Asia is cheaper than Mexico overall. However, some cities (like Singapore) will be more expensive.

What is the most underrated country in Southeast Asia?

Cambodia is one of the most underrated countries in Southeast Asia.

Jeremy Scott Foster

Wow, this itinerary is so comprehensive! Is it based on your own trip? I wish I had done something like this! I mean backpacking Southeast Asia for 3 months 🙂 But at least I saw parts of Thailand and Cambodia. The other 2 are still on my to-go list.

Hi Jeremy, Jules Verne wrote “Around the World in 80 Days” and you wrote in 90 Days; hahaha! However, your post was really informative and I just loved to read. Maybe I’ll try once to discover the world in 90 days!

I have been to Vietnam, I feel this place is wonderful to come back again. how to make slime

So many great places to visit in SEA, and they each have their own unique culture.

I also like to take better advantage of each place I go, and one thing I’ve been trying to do is really policing myself to take better care of my finances and to be more selective in every place I decide to visit and get to know in a city or country. Because since we are long-term travelers it is easy to end up having unnecessary expenses and this post helped me to reflect on the importance of this. Thanks for sharing your experience the Asian region with us Jeremy 🙂

Wow what a cool place .. I even gave it a try to take a tour in this region. I have been looking for places like this here in the Country that I am going through but I have not yet found. Thanks for the tip. I’ll take a closer look at who knows the Asian places too.

Amazing itinerary!! I know its hard to give an accurate answer but could you give an estimated budget for this trip? Excluding international flights of course! Thanks in advance…

Southeast Asia can definitely be done for $1k/mo if you’re on a budget. It all depends on the types of places you stay and where you eat. Hostels and street food vendors are your best friends!

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• Asia , Southeast Asia

Looking for the best Southeast Asia backpacking route? With so much to see and do in this region of the world, it can be hard figuring out how long to spend here and where to go! To help you get an idea of how much you can see with 3 months in Southeast Asia, take a look at the backpacking route I took across Indonesia, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

Psst, this post contains affiliate links. Read our disclosure .

Backpacking Southeast Asia was hands down one of the best decisions I’ve ever made in my life. Building up the courage to jump on a plane by myself and backpack solo around the countries of Indonesia, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam completely changed who I was and irrevocably impacted the person I am today! (In, like, the best way possible.)

If you’re considering a Southeast Asia backpacking trip and wondering if it’s the right decision, this is your sign.

This is your sign to reserve that plane ticket, pack up your bags, and get your butt over to Southeast Asia for the wild ride that is backpacking this wondrous region of the world! Not to mention, it’s the BEST for those who want to backpack and travel long-term on a small budget.

In the sections below, I’m covering how I spent 3 months backpacking Southeast Asia, including what countries I went to, how much time I spent in each, and the places I visited in each country.

Don’t forget to read my 4-part guide on everything you need to know about backpacking Southeast Asia! Part 1 shares how to prepare for your trip , part 2 dives into what you should expect when there , part 3 explores budgeting and saving money , and part 4 covers all the miscellaneous must-know tips !

Table of Contents

HOW I SPENT 3 MONTHS BACKPACKING SOUTHEAST ASIA

You’ll find the countries of Indonesia, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam on this 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary, as well as some of the top cities to visit, like Bangkok, Siem Reap, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City.

This itinerary could be considered the so-called “Banana Pancake Trail” but with a little twist, as it starts in Bali, which I think is a must-visit in Asia!

Also, don’t miss out on reading to the bottom! I’m including some of my favorite tips on how to best backpack Southeast Asia for a ridiculously awesome trip.

Bali, Indonesia

First things first — where the heck do you fly into?

Well, personally, I bought a one-way flight from Minneapolis, Minnesota to Denpasar in Bali, Indonesia. It costs me around $600 for a one-way flight from Minnesota to Bali.

(Psst, I always use Skyscanner to book my flights ! It’s one of the BEST sites I use to score cheap flights .)

As someone who was yearning to visit Bali, I found this was the best place to start my 3 months in Southeast Asia. Not to mention, flying from Bali to the rest of Southeast Asia is pretty simple, too, as it’s become a major destination among travelers.

While in Bali, I spent 3 weeks here and traveled to:

• Kuta/Seminyak (3 nights) — awesome nightlife and restaurants
• Canggu (5 nights) — discovered the amazing vegan food here !
• Ubud (4 nights) — incredible waterfalls and awesome day trips
• Amed (3 nights) — fantastic for snorkeling and low-key beach days
• Gili T (5 nights) largest of the 3 Gili Islands; super chill, good food, great nightlife, and even better snorkeling
• Nusa Penida + Nusa Dua ( day trip from Kuta ) — exceptional islands off the Bali coast that are perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, and boating around

Some of my favorite places I stayed on the island of Bali include The Hostel Canggu , Green Paddy Hostel & Villa in Ubud (amazing atmosphere and pool!), and Voodoo Gili on Gili Trawangan (fabulous pool and friendly owners).

For more info on traveling Bali, check out these posts — 10 essential things to pack for Bali , where to find the best vegan food in Canggu , and my first 36 hours in Bali, Indonesia .

After spending 3 weeks traveling around Bali, Indonesia, I flew from Denpasar to Bangkok, Thailand, and spent 2 weeks hopping around its islands.

(On my most recent visit, I spent 3 weeks in northern and southern Thailand — you can check out that itinerary here !)

One of my absolute favorite countries to visit, Thailand boasts beautiful beaches , wondrous temples , gorgeous landscapes, amazing people, awesome vegan cooking classes , and even more delicious food!

When mapping out my route around Thailand, I initially planned on doing the southern region and then heading on up to spend 10 days in northern Thailand … however, fate got in the way and I ended up following a newfound love interest to Laos after just two weeks here!

(Hint: this love interest is now my British husband, Dan! So I’d say it worked out. 😉 )

Anyways, in the two weeks I spent in Thailand, I visited:

• Bangkok (4 nights; split between two visits) — exceptional nightlife, food scene, and cultural highlights
• Krabi (2 nights) — great base for exploring nearby attractions and islands; good nightlife
• Koh Phi Phi (3 nights) — party central, beautiful views, and good restaurants
• Koh Tao (3 nights) — awesome snorkeling, beautiful beaches, fun nightlife, and stunning viewpoints
• Koh Phangan (2 nights) — *for the half moon party, which was incredible (you could also do the full moon party if planned right)

Also, it’s important to know I opted for bus transportation between Bangkok and southern Thailand, which is about a 16-20 hour ride. I was backpacking Southeast Asia on a budget and this was the most cost-effective option!

If you’re wanting to speed things up and you have the monetary means, taking a plane is also an option.

(That said, if you’re aiming to be a more sustainable traveler , bus transportation is the way to go!)

Regarding accommodations, there’s not many places I can recommend. However, here are some places I wish I would have stayed! As they all have raving reviews from fellow Southeast Asia backpackers.

These accommodations include The LOL Elephant Hostel (Bangkok), Pop-In Ao Nang Hostel (Krabi/Ao Nang), JJ Bungalow (Koh Phi Phi), Koh Tao Heritage (Koh Tao), Hideout Hostel (Koh Phangan), Maitria Hotel Sukhumvit 18 Bangkok (Dan and I did personally splurge and stayed here! It was fantastic).

Not sure what to pack? Check out my packing guides! I have one on 10 odd essentials I never travel without , my favorite zero waste packing essentials , best chemical-free and zero waste sunscreen , and what to wear (and NOT wear) in Thailand .

After backpacking around Thailand for two weeks, I headed to Laos and spent around one and a half weeks there!

This country was a top destination highlight on my 3 month Southeast Asia backpacking trip, as it completely surpassed my expectations!

With 1.5 weeks in Laos, I traveled to:

• Luang Prabang (3 nights) — Kuang Si waterfall, Mekong Delta boat rides, temples and palaces, and incredible cultural activities and attractions
• Vang Vieng (5 nights) — incredible landscapes, caves, blue lagoons, temples, and river tubing
• Vientiane (2 nights) — stunning temples, incredible markets, Buddha statue park, and amazing museums

To find out more about what I did with my time in Laos, read these similar posts on two weeks in Laos , the best things to do in Vang Vieng , and top things to do in Vientiane !

You’ll find some good Southeast Asia backpacking inspiration and tips reading that content.

Some great places to stay throughout Laos include La Casa Hostel (Luang Prabang), Vang Vieng Backpackers Hostel (Vang Vieng), Sailomyen Hostel (Vientiane).

Following my jaunt in Laos exploring its major destinations of Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, and Vientiane, I went to Cambodia and spent around one and a half weeks there as well!

While in this magical country, I visited:

• Siem Reap (4 nights) — Angkor Wat, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and cool cultural attractions
• Phnom Penh (3 nights) — amazing temples, bumping nightlife, pristine palaces, awesome markets, and lots of great food stops
• Sihanoukville (3 nights) — day trip to the pristine island of Koh Rong, great nightlife, fun boat trips, and a relaxing beach atmosphere

Sounds pretty amazing, eh?

If you’re backpacking Southeast Asia and plan on visiting Cambodia, I highly recommend adding Angkor Wat at sunrise to your bucket list! As well as Sihanoukville or the island of Koh Rong for a relaxing beach getaway.

And don’t forget to read my blog post on the things you must know before traveling to Cambodia !

For places to stay, I recommend Lub d Cambodia Siem Reap , Onederz Hostel (Phnom Penh), and the Villa Blue Lagoon (Sihanoukville).

Plan on staying in a lot of hostels? Don’t forget to read my post on must-have hostel essentials every traveler needs to have on their packing list !

Vietnam is the country I spent the most time in when backpacking Southeast Asia for 3 months. Considering this country is so long, it can take a while to get from destination to destination! Especially if using buses as the main mode of transportation, which I did.

So to make sure I had enough time to see the best of what Vietnam had to offer, I spent 30 days here and explored the following destinations:

• Hanoi (3 nights) — discover the best things to do in Hanoi here
• Sapa (3 nights) — amazing hiking, motorbiking opportunities, and lovely locals (read this post on my top Sapa tips before heading there)
• Halong Bay (2 nights) — wondrous landscapes filled with karst limestone mountains and beautiful blue bays
• Ninh Binh (2 nights) — known as the “Halong Bay of Inland Vietnam”; gorgeous scenery, temples and boat rides
• Phong Nha (3 nights) — incredible caves to visit, mountains, hiking opportunities and backpacker nightlife
• Hue (2 nights) — known as “Vietnam’s Imperial City” with museums, temples, and more; also has an abandoned waterpark that is so cool to visit
• Hoi An (3 nights) — magical town known for its lanterns and beautiful architecture; also has lovely beaches
• Da Lat (3 nights) — great for unique temples, waterfalls, motorbike adventures, coffee plantations, and incredible canyoning experiences
• Mui Ne (3 nights) — sand dunes, lovely beaches, a magical fairy stream, and unique landscapes
• Ho Chi Minh City (4 nights) — incredible nightlife and sky bars, bustling markets, fantastic museums, historic sites and attractions, and some really cool architecture

For more information on a Vietnam itinerary and backpacking trip, read my post on how to spend one month in Vietnam ! Near the bottom of the post, you can find my top Vietnam travel tips, how much it costs to backpack Vietnam, and more.

Additionally, check out my other posts on Vietnam…

• 9 incredible reasons to visit Vietnam
• 10 amazing experiences to have in Vietnam
• 16 remarkably useful things to know before traveling Vietnam
• The peculiar tale of how a girl fell madly in love with Sapa, Vietnam

Wondering where to stay in Vietnam?

Here are some of the top places I bunked at — Vietnam Backpackers Hostel – Downtown (Hanoi), The Little Hmong House Homestay (Sapa), Trang An Eco Homestay (Ninh Binh), Central Backpackers Hostel (Phong Nha), Azumi Villa (Hoi An), Mui Ne Hills Backpackers , and The Hangout Hostel Saigon (HCMC).

After traveling throughout Vietnam, I then caught a flight out of Ho Chi Minh City to my next destination, which was the UK and then back home to Minnesota!

Ho Chi Minh City is a nice destination to end your 3 month Southeast Asia backpacking trip because it’s quite a big hub that’s easy to fly out of.

Furthermore, I want to mention that this Southeast Asia backpacking route is simply an outline you can use for inspiration on how to plan your own amazing trip!

If you end up liking one destination more, stay there a bit longer! Don’t like a place as much or not feeling the vibe? Get outta there and go to your next stop!

One great thing about booking your accommodations through Booking.com or Agoda (which are my favorite booking sites) is that you often get free cancellation. This means you can have a more flexible plan!

Anyways, I’m a big fan of Southeast Asia and as someone who typically travels on a budget, this region of the world is incredibly affordable for many backpackers! So that’s always a win in my book.

To help you plan for your trip even more, check out these posts:

• Scoring cheap flights • The top sites I use to book affordable flights
• What to wear in Thailand (and what NOT to wear!)
• Psst, many elephant “sanctuaries” and elephant experiences aren’t ethical or responsible. Here’s why.
• 15 things that shocked me when backpacking Southeast Asia for the first time
• Must-have hostel essentials every traveler needs to have on their packing list

Curious to know what camera I use to take my photos while backpacking? I always travel with a Sony A7 Mirrorless camera and GoPro camera ! They’re both lightweight and compact, and fit great in my carry-on travel bags.

My Top Tips for Backpacking Southeast Asia

Last but not least, it’s important to follow a few of my top Southeast Asia backpacking tips.

#1 — ALWAYS Get Travel Insurance

Southeast Asia can be an unpredictable and sometimes dangerous place. You never know what can happen when backpacking so it’s important to cover your ass by getting comprehensive travel insurance.

I recommend either World Nomads (I used them for my 3 month Southeast Asia backpacking trip) or SafetyWing (I use them now for shorter trips).

#2 — Check if You Need a Visa

Many countries in Southeast Asia require visitors to have a certain visa.

This depends on what country you’re from but from what I can remember, all countries on this 3 month Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary require visitors who hold a passport from the USA, Canada, or the UK to have a visa that you must pay for.

I recommend using iVisa for both checking if you need a certain visa and actually getting the right visa through them. They’re online visa process is super simple and completely affordable! Not to mention, it takes off the stress of getting it at the border or in the airport.

Check out iVisa here . Or use the widget below to put in your specific information!

#3 — Use Common Sense

If you’re a young backpacker in Southeast Asia, it can be tempting to slip into the Southeast Asia oblivion and get caught up in the partying, wild rides, and oftentimes, the drugs.

However, I recommend using your common sense and doing only what you know you can handle!

This doesn’t mean skipping out on all the fun — I would never do that myself! I just want to stress that you should not simply do what everyone else is doing. Only do what feels comfortable to you and make sure to stay safe!

For example, I went too far in Vang Vieng, Laos, and did some very sketchy drugs. It was NOT fun and I would not recommend it to anyone. I failed to listen to my intuition or common sense and it could have ended really badly. Thankfully, nothing went wrong but that experience still haunts me!

Alright, with those top tips and my 3 month Southeast Asia backpacking route above, you can start planning your own backpacking trip here ASAP!

Tell me, are you wanting to backpack Southeast Asia for 3 months, or are you wanting to spend a shorter/longer amount of time there? Do you have any other questions for me? Stick your thoughts and Qs in the comment section below!

Not sure what to check out next? Readers love these posts:

• Backpacking Southeast Asia travel guide: preparing for your trip (Part 1 of 4)
• Packing for my long-term trip to southeast Asia
• 10 airport travel tips all flyers should know
• The best chemical-free, zero waste sunscreen to pack for Bali
• 10 odd essentials I’ll never travel without

Love this post on how I spent 3 months backpacking Southeast Asia? Pin it!

As mentioned above, this post contains affiliate links. Which means if you make a purchase through the links, this site receives a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read our full disclosure here .

Related Posts

How to spend 3 weeks in Thailand: cities, mountains and island life

The best 3-week south Thailand itinerary

9 reasons to visit Vietnam that you’ll absolutely love

Article comments.

I loved reading this. What hostel did you go to right after you landed in Bali?

Hey Jack, I love that you loved reading this! Thank you for stopping by the blog. The first time I got to Bali, I stayed with a Couchsurfer host! The second time, I stayed at The Ruum Hostel Canggu (which is not open anymore). There are some really great hostels in Canggu though, which is a big hub for backpackers!

Did you prebook your flights in and out of each country (for visa reasons)? So you could prove you didn’t intend to stay longer than the visa allowed. Or were you able to book one way tickets in and out of each country at a time for flexibility? Great blog! Very informative, thank you.

Hi Simone! I had to have a flight out when I flew to Bali, Indonesia, but it was the airlines that asked for it (not immigration). For Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam, I told them I was traveling each country via ground transportation (e.g. bus or boat) and that seemed to work!

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Southeast Asia Itineraries: From 2 Weeks to 3 Months

Itinerary planning is a complex beast. There’s no single best route out there. Everyone has different travel desires, goals, and needs (let alone budgets). It’s why I’ve always shied away from discussing itinerary planning for long-term travel .

Showing someone how to plan a trip is one thing, but actually planning a trip for someone else is tricky, because I don’t know what they want or like.

Because, at the end of the day, there is no such thing as a perfect itinerary. You have to go where you want to go and, while suggested routes can help inspire you, at the end of the day, only you can plan the best route for you.

However, that can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to tackle an entire region like Southeast Asia . So, in this post, I’ll provide a few suggested itineraries to help you conquer this fantastic region.

For the two-week itinerary, I’ll break things up by day, but as we get into one-month and three-month territory, you’ll have a lot more flexibility with your time, so I’ll give rougher estimates of how to spend it.

After all, part of the beauty of travel is keeping yourself open to serendipitous moments and experiences!

Table of Contents

Southeast Asia Two-Week Itinerary

Southeast asia one-month itinerary, southeast asia three-month itinerary, the best time to visit southeast asia, what visas do you need for southeast asia.

If you only have two weeks in Southeast Asia, I suggest sticking to just 1-2 countries so that you don’t spend all your time in transit. You’ll also be able to better soak up the atmosphere if you’re not trying to cram too much in. With a more limited time frame, just accept that you’ll have to leave some things to look forward to on your next trip!

Take a walking tour to get your bearings and get local recommendations from the guide. Bangkok Walking Tours or Free Bangkok Walks are two great free options — just remember to tip your guide at the end!

For a more in-depth tour, you can take a city highlights tour , on which your guide will take you through some of Bangkok’s major attractions.

While the famous Damnoen Saduak floating market just outside of Bangkok exists mostly for the benefit of tourists, I still like visiting it. The tours that go there leave early in the morning and last about half a day. It’s not a great place to shop (prices are much higher than elsewhere), but the area is good for photography and eating.

WHERE TO STAY IN BANGKOK : Lub d Siam – This is a very popular spot for backpackers looking to stay somewhere other than the infamous party district that is Khao San Road. The hostel is modern, the rooms are spacious, and there are plenty of common areas to socialize in, including a café/bar.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is Chiang Mai’s most famous temple (the pagoda supposedly contains relics of the Buddha himself). It offers beautiful views of the surrounding area and, at 6pm each day, you can watch the monks chant. The main other temples are Wat Chiang Man, Wat Phra Singh, Wat Suan Dok, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Jet Yot. Walking tours that visit several of these main temples start at 500 THB.

If you want to see elephants, a good way to get up close with them is to volunteer at or visit Elephant Nature Park. This sanctuary near Chiang Mai rescues abused and injured elephants from around the country. It’s a phenomenal place, and after coming here, you will know why you should never ride an elephant. A one-day visit costs 2,500-3,500 THB for adults.

WHERE TO STAY IN CHIANG MAI : Hostel Lullaby – This fantastic hostel in the heart of Chiang Mai was even voted the best in Thailand. Besides the comfortable facilities, there are a ton of perks here, including free bikes, free breakfast, and free Thai boxing, cooking, and yoga classes.

Days 7-9: Chiang Mai to Bangkok Here you have a few options: stay longer in Chiang Mai to do more jungle trekking; head up to Chiang Rai to see the famous White Temple; or take the long way back down to Bangkok, stopping for a night in each of Thailand’s ancient capitals (Ayutthaya and Sukhothai) or spending some time in one of the national forests, such as the incredible Khao Yai National Park .

Once back in Bangkok, you can either head into Cambodia to see Angkor Wat if you’re ambitious, or just hang out in Bangkok for a few more days before your flight home.

If you choose to go to Angkor Wat, here are my recommendations:

Be sure to visit the Landmine Museum. Landmines have devastated the country, maiming and killing thousands. They still cause destruction today, as remaining mines from the Vietnam War (which spilled over into Cambodia) are discovered every year. The museum has an in-depth exhibit that is very worthwhile, as it gives perspective on their use, dangers, and efforts to remove them.

Also, spend a day at Angkor Wat , the ancient site that was the center of the Khmer Empire that once ruled most of Southeast Asia. The temple was built in the 12th century and covers over 500 acres.

While a single-day visit can cover the main temples, this is an amazing site to explore, so I highly recommend two days (at least).

You can hire a tuk-tuk for the day or rent bicycles and explore on your own. Tuk-tuks have room for 3-4 people, making it a cheap and convenient option if you can split the ride with other travelers. You can also take a full-day guided tour to learn even more from a professional.

Admission is $37 USD per person for a day pass, $62 USD for a three-day pass, and $72 USD for a seven-day pass.

WHERE TO STAY IN SIEM REAP : Mad Monkey – This is a fun, lively, and social hostel with a bar, pool, and lots of tours and organized activities to help you meet people and explore the city.

Day 13: Bus back to Bangkok Take the bus back to the Thai capital, where you can spend the last day of your trip exploring more of the many things to see and do in Bangkok , or just simply hang out, relax, and eat all the delicious Thai food you can before your journey home.

Day 14: Departure day Head off to the airport knowing that you made the most of your two weeks in Southeast Asia. Chances are that you only whetted your appetite for traveling through this amazing region of the world, and you might already be planning your next trip on your way back home!

With one month, you’ll be able to take it a little slower, see more places, and get off the beaten path a bit more. You can add another country and leave more flexibility in your itinerary.

Days 1-3: Bangkok Follow the Bangkok itinerary above, and stay for a few more days if you like! There are endless things to do in Bangkok.

For more recommendations, check out my free Bangkok city guide .

Day 4: Bangkok–Chiang Mai With one month, you can choose to take the day train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. It’s not only cheaper but a nice way to see the countryside. Sure, you “waste” a day, but you see the countryside, experience how Thais take the train, and can eat from vendors who briefly board at every stop.

The day train remains one of my favorite experiences in Thailand. Just make sure you have a good book as the journey is 10-13 hours long.

Days 5-7: Chiang Mai See the Chiang Mai itinerary above. For more recommendations on things to do, check out my free Chiang Mai city guide .

Days 8-10: Slow boat from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang, Laos After spending your first week in cities, take a load off and drift down the river on a slow boat. These boats generally take two days, stopping overnight at a guesthouse along the way. It’s a beautiful way to see the scenery and recharge a bit from a busy week.

Alternatively, if you want to save time, you can fly between the two destinations, or skip ahead in this itinerary to Vietnam .

Although it’s small (around 56,000 people live here), there’s a lot to see and do, with dozens of temples, streets lined with French colonial architecture ( this walking tour hits all the highlights and then some ), a bustling night market, river tours , and waterfalls. I came here for three days but ended up staying a week!

Start off with a visit to the “Buddha Caves” (officially, the Pak Ou Caves). They hold over 6,000 Buddha statues that the locals still use for worship. There are standing Buddhas, sitting Buddhas, reclining Buddhas — you name it! You can visit solo or book a guided tour .

While you’re here, don’t miss the iconic Kuang Si waterfalls (you’ve probably seen them on Instagram already). They flow through the limestone-rich jungle and empty into a series of three gently cascading pools. While it’s one of the most popular attractions in the area (avoid the weekends, when it’s super busy), the Kuang Si Falls was also one of the most breathtaking things I saw in Laos.

Other things to do here include:

• The Royal Palace
• Mount Phousi
• Wat Xieng Thong Monastery
• The alms ceremony
• Kayaking the Mekong River

For more things to do, check out my free guide to Luang Prabang .

WHERE TO STAY IN LUANG PRABANG : Downtown Backpackers Hostel 2 – This is a great little hostel with free breakfast, moped rentals, clean dorms, and super helpful staff.

Kick things off with a tubing trip down the river. It’s the best way to relax and stay cool. A tubing and kayaking tour costs around 575,000 LAK.

And if you want to stretch your legs, climb Pha Poak Mountain. It’s only a 30-minute climb to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with an incredible view of the area’s limestone mountains.

Other things to see and do in Vang Vieng include:

• The Golden Cave
• Hot air balloon rides
• The Blue Lagoon

For more things to do, check out my free guide to Vang Vieng .

WHERE TO STAY IN VANG VIENG : Nana Backpackers Hostel – This is a fun, social hostel with a swimming pool, movie room, small gym, and bar with free vodka and whiskey every night from 7pm to 9pm.

Nowadays, the city is a hub for café culture, cheap spas, golden temples, and diverse riverside markets. Much of its historical center has kept its colorful colonial architecture intact too, making it a nice area to stroll around.

Wander the wide boulevards, take in the crumbling mansions, chill out in Chao Anouvong Park, enjoy the flavorful local cuisine (there are a ton of delicious French bakeries here as well).

Make sure you visit Buddha Park, a sculpture park is just 25 kilometers (15 miles) outside of Vientiane. There are around 200 Hindu and Buddhist statues here, all of which appear to be centuries old (they’re not — they were made in the 20th century out of concrete). While not “historic” per se, it’s still worth visiting, as there are all kinds of unconventional designs, including a three-meter (9.8-foot) demon head that you can enter, and staircases from heaven and hell that you can climb. Admission is 15,000 LAK.

You’ll also want to admire the Great Stupa (Pha That Luang). It’s a 44-meter (148-foot) gold-covered stupa (dome-shaped Buddhist shrine) and is the most important monument in the country. Built by King Setthathirat in 1566, its exterior looks like a fortress with high walls. Inside, the walls are covered in Buddhist, floral, and animal imagery. Admission is 10,000 LAK.

Other things to see and do in Vientiane include:

• The COPE Visitor Centre
• Victory Gate (Patuxai)
• Chao Anouvong Park
• Lao Boat Racing Festival

For more things to do, check out my guide to Vientiane .

WHERE TO STAY IN VIENTIANE : Dream Home – This is a fantastic hostel that offers everything you need while staying in the capital. There’s free breakfast, comfy beds, AC, a nightly happy hour at the hostel bar, and a 24-hour reception with friendly staff members.

Days 20-22: Pakse Pakse is the gateway to Laos’ 4,000 Islands (in the Mekong River), so there isn’t a ton to do here other than chill out and relax. It’s a nice place to stop while heading south to Cambodia. Alternatively, you can take a 1.5-hour flight from Vientiane to Phnom Penh to save some time and give you extra days elsewhere.

WHERE TO STAY IN PAKSE : Sanga Hostel – This cozy hostel has super comfortable beds, a restaurant with fantastic home-cooked food (free banana cakes!), and a lovely owner.

The Royal Palace is home to beautiful flower gardens and the Silver Pagoda, whose floor is made up of more than 5,000 silver tiles; inside is an emerald-covered Buddha and a diamond-covered Maitreya Buddha. The palace also has murals around its outer wall that tell the story of the Ramayana.

On the palace grounds are five stupas, with the two largest to the east containing the ashes of Kings Norodom and King Udung (the two most famous kings of modern Cambodia) and a statue of King Norodom on horseback.

The most important thing to see here, however, is the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields. Tuol Sleng is a former school where the Khmer Rouge interrogated and tortured people in the 1970s. You’ll see rusty beds and torture devices, in sharp contrast to the beautiful trees and lovely jasmine smell in the gardens.

After, head to the Killing Fields. It may not be the most cheerful way to spend an afternoon, but it makes for a hallowed and memorable experience, a testament to the dangers of uncontested power. Admission to the Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is $20 USD. This includes a guided tour so you can get an in-depth look at this haunting place.

For more things to do, check out my guide to Phnom Penh .

WHERE TO STAY IN PHNOM PENH : Mad Monkey – This is a lovely social hostel with a bar, restaurant, beer garden, and swimming pool. They organize all kinds of events and tours, so it’s easy to make friends here.

Days 27-29: Siem Reap Follow the Siem Reap and Angkor Wat itineraries from above.

If you have time, visit Tonle Sap, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake and UNESCO nature reserve. It is 52 kilometers (32 miles) from Siem Reap. Sailing down the river and around the lake gives you a look at how closely Cambodian life is tied to this major waterway. Guided tours to Tonle Sap start at $20 USD.

Day 30: Bangkok Head back to Bangkok for your flight home!

If you have three months to spend, you don’t want to have everything plotted and planned out to the day, like you might want to with the shorter itineraries above. Having flexibility to change plans is a must (and will make your travels much more enjoyable). On a trip of this length, you don’t want to burn yourself out too fast!

With three months, you have enough time to be flexible and still see a lot. I’d recommend rough planning in weeklong chunks.

MONTH ONE: Thailand

Week 1: Bangkok and Backpacking Kanchanaburi Province Follow the three-day Bangkok itinerary above, and extend your stay by a few days to take things slower and see even more of this vibrant city. You can also do more day trips or even multiday trips to the surrounding region.

When you’ve had your fill of bustling Bangkok, take your time heading north. Kanchanaburi Province is a great place to spend some time, as it’s home to a lush, undisturbed forest, wetlands, and mountains that are perfect for trekking, either on multiday tours or day trips from Bangkok . The area is very biodiverse, with two wildlife sanctuaries: Thung Yai Naresuan, and Huai Kha Khaeng.

However, its history is rather dark. The infamous Death Railway linking Myanmar and Thailand runs through here, which was built during World War II by prisoners of war and civilians. Around 90,000 civilian forced laborers and more than 12,000 Allied prisoners perished in the railway’s construction. The bridge over the River Kwai is also located here, built using POW labor and the subject of both a famous film and a book. While these sights are haunting reminders, they are an essential part of Thailand’s history.

Here are some options to consider for your meandering journey north:

Ayutthaya – Ayutthaya was the capital of Siam from 1350 to 1767, when it was razed by the Burmese during a war. The city’s ruins, with its palaces, temples, monasteries, and statues, form an archaeological park that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s about 1.5 hours from Bangkok by train.

You can also visit on a day trip from Bangkok for just 1,105 THB.

Khao Yai National Park – Established in 1962, Khao Yai was Thailand’s first (and one of its best) national park and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s visually stunning and empty of tourists but filled with lush flora and fauna, bat caves, and even a few wild elephants. It’s about 2.5 hours north of Bangkok.

There are also day trips to Khao Yai from Bangkok starting at around 2,500 THB.

WHERE TO STAY : Greenleaf Guesthouse – This hostel has the best tour/accommodation deals in the area. Let them know when you’re arriving by train or bus, and they’ll pick you up at the station.

Sukhothai – Sukhothai was the Kingdom of Siam’s first capital city, in the 13th century. There are hundreds of ruined buildings here, including the royal palace and countless temples.

There are actually three ruined cities that make up the UNESCO World Heritage Site, and since they’re a bit spread out, seeing them by bike is a fun way to cover a lot of distance. You can take a full-day or two-hour bike tour with Sukhothai Bicycle Tour .

WHERE TO STAY : Old City Boutique House – This hostel is in a great location, right near the entrance to the historical park. The guesthouse has AC, free breakfast, bike rentals, and friendly owners to help you with whatever you need!

Chiang Mai is the main starting point for all sorts of jungle trekking tours. I like the three-day ones the best, but the longer the tour, the more interesting and secluded places you’ll visit. Be careful with whom you sign up, as many guides simply walk with you and don’t tell you much about the land or wildlife.

Moreover, if you visit a tribal village, make sure that the money stays with the villagers, and that they aren’t being exploited, which unfortunately happens a lot.

If you prefer to do a few different day trips rather than multiday tours, TripGuru Thailand offers full-day tours to Doi Inthanon National Park and the Chiang Dao cave system , among others.

Week 4: Northern Thailand If you want to continue soaking up northern Thailand, a great way to do so is on a motorbike trip. Many people rent bikes and tour the countryside and take in the scenery. This area is particularly popular for a 1–3-day trip. Mai Hong Son Province offers a great loop, starting in Chiang Mai and ending in Pai.

Note: Make sure that if you’re renting a motorbike, you’re comfortable with driving it. And never ever drink and drive. Accidents are incredibly common.

Pai – Pai has grown as a tourist destination in more recent years, but it is still a great place to escape some of the craziness of the larger cities. It’s nestled in rolling green mountains and near incredible hiking trails. Stay on the outskirts of this backpacker town in a lovely little bungalow, rent a bike, traverse the hills, and bathe in the cool waterfalls.

Be sure to take a day trip to the Tham Lot Caves; you can stop off to swim in waterfalls and hot springs on the way.

WHERE TO STAY : The Famous Pai Circus Hostel – This is the best hostel in Pai, with a host of amenities, from air-conditioned dorms, comfortable mattresses, and bamboo bunk beds to an infinity pool, nightly bonfires, a fantastic buffet breakfast, free dinners, and overall, a great atmosphere.

Chiang Rai – Many people visit Chiang Rai on a day trip from Chiang Mai , expressly for the purpose of seeing the White Temple. This intricately designed complex with its reflective pools and shimmering white exterior is designed in the style of a Buddhist temple. However, it’s actually a work of art by Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, and is still currently in the process of being completed.

WHERE TO STAY : Baan Mai Kradan Hostel – This sleek, modern, and centrally located hostel has free breakfast, fast Wi-Fi, comfortable pod-style beds, and plenty of indoor and outdoor common areas to relax in.

MONTH TWO: Laos and Vietnam

Week 5: Slow Boat to Luang Prabang Take the two-day slow boat to Luang Prabang. Once there, follow the Luang Prabang itinerary above, but at a slower pace. You can also spend some time in the surrounding, even smaller villages like Nong Kiew, a sleepy village located a few hours from Luang Prabang. The towering limestone cliffs surrounding it are ideal for experienced climbers, and there are many hiking trails leading to nearby waterfalls and caves. You can take the bus from the city for about 40,000-65,000 LAK.

WHERE TO STAY : Lamorn Guesthouse – This is an incredibly affordable guesthouse located right on the river. The rooms are basic but clean, each with its own private bathroom and air-conditioning.

Week 6: Vang Vieng and Vientiane Follow the itineraries for Vang Vieng and Vientiane above. Then, you can either choose to continue your trip in Laos by heading south to Pakse and 4,000 Islands (in which case, follow the itineraries outlined above), or head on to Vietnam.

If going to Vietnam, you can take an overnight bus to Hanoi or a quick flight from Vientiane. If flying, keep in mind that there are only direct flights a few times a week (otherwise you must connect through Bangkok), so plan ahead if going with that option.

It’s also one of the best places to eat endless bowls of pho, bun cha, or cheap bahn mi from food vendors on just about every street corner.

Start your visit by exploring the narrow streets of the Old Quarter. Its 2,000-year-old streets are a web of shopping opportunities and cheap eateries. There’s also a lot of fascinating Old World architecture that highlights the influence the French had on the area.

Hanoi is also a good base for doing multiday tours to postcard-perfect UNESCO World Heritage Site Ha Long Bay. One of the country’s most popular tourist destinations, the area comprises more than 3,000 islands, all with different activities on offer. Tours here usually last 3-5 days and can include sleeping on a boat or staying on some of the islands around the bay, as well as cave tours and kayaking. If you really want to splash out, take a 3-day luxury cruise .

If you don’t want to do a longer cruise, you can choose a two-day (overnight) cruise or a full-day trip from Hanoi ; however, given that you’re on a three-month adventure, I’d recommend going with the few-day options.

Other things to see and do in Hanoi include:

• The Temple of Literature
• See a water puppet show (an ancient Vietnamese art form)
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
• Dong Xuan Market
• Go on a food tour
• Quan Su Pagoda

For more things to do, check out my guide to Hanoi .

WHERE TO STAY : Little Hanoi Hostel – Located in the heart of the Old Quarter, this hostel has air conditioning, free breakfast, free welcome drinks, and — most importantly — clean, comfy rooms. The staff will help you book tours of the city and surrounding region.

It’s also an extremely popular place for ordering tailored clothing, which is one of the main reasons people come here. You can get anything made here — from custom-made suits to gowns to sundresses to leather boots to sneakers. The tailor shops will even mail all your goods home to you.

Otherwise, Hoi An makes for a relaxing destination in an otherwise hectic country, with the beach only a 15-minute bike-ride from town.

Some of the top things to do here include the following:

• Explore My Son Sanctuary: – This is one of the most important sites relating to the ancient Kingdom of Champa and is said to have been Vietnam’s religious and intellectual center. Even in their ruined state, the remaining Hindu temple structures are impressive. Go in the morning to beat the crowds and heat. A morning guided tour with transportation from Hoi An is the best option.
• Relax on the beach – An Bang and Cua Dai beaches are both close to Hoi An and great places to spend an afternoon. Cua Dai is designated as one of Vietnam’s five UNESCO World Heritage sites; both beaches offer soft white sand and excellent beachside restaurants.
• Attend the Full Moon Festival – Hoi An’s Full Moon Festival is held on the 14th day of the lunar cycle each month and is probably the best time to visit the city, if you don’t mind the crowds. This is a fun time to party with locals, as the streets come alive with folk music, plays, and dancing!
• Learn about (and eat!) all the food – Vietnamese cuisine is fresh, flavorful, and delicious. Hoi An offers a few ways to dive into this incredible cuisine: take a food tour , do a cooking class , or learn how to make Vietnamese coffee !

WHERE TO STAY : Vietnam Backpackers Hoi An Hostel – Located conveniently between the Old Town and the beach, this hostel has a great outdoor pool and terrace, tons of social events, small dorms (max. 6 beds), and rain-head showers with excellent pressure. If you stay in a private room, you’ll even get a free bicycle to use (rentals are also available if you’re staying in a dorm).

Ho Chi Minh City – My favorite Vietnamese city after Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon) is the largest and most chaotic in the country. Motorbikes, bicycles, cars, and rickshaws go wherever they please, and lots of street stands and markets spill into the traffic lanes.

It’s a metropolis with a billion things happening at once, and a lot to offer travelers. Stay a few days here to take in the wonderful shops, fantastic nightlife, delicious food, plentiful historic sites, and interesting (though propaganda-heavy) museums.

WHERE TO STAY : The Hideout – This is a conveniently located, social hostel with super clean rooms, free beer at the bar every day, and showers that you can use even after you check out. They organize many tours of the city and area as well.

MONTH THREE: Cambodia

If you’re looking to soak up some sun, Independence Beach and Otres Beach are probably your best bets. But mainly, Sihanoukville is a jumping-off point for other islands and beach towns in the area, such as:

Koh Rong – This island is a 45-minute ride from Sihanoukville. If you’re pressed for time, you can do it in a day trip, but stay overnight if you can. The beaches here are way better than on the mainland (and a lot less polluted), and there’s great snorkeling and diving.

Bokor National Park – Hike through a stunning rainforest or see the atmospheric ruins of the French aristocracy for whom Bokor was a big drawback in the day. You’ll have some amazing views, and there are ruins, waterfalls, and temples all around.

Kep – This quaint beach and fishing village is a quiet version of Sihanoukville but without a party atmosphere, therefore a nice place to relax near the ocean. It’s famous for its pepper crab and empty beaches. Sure, it’s quite sleepy and there’s not a lot to do, but it’s the perfect place to relax, read a book, and eat all the delicious crab. You can also spend some time on nearby Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay), a secluded and charming escape from the world if you’re looking to disconnect.

Kampot – This is another quiet town on the coast. Most people come here to enjoy the scenic riverside views as well as the rolling hills and pepper farms that surround the city. The area used to be a getaway for the French, so you’ll see old colonial architecture around. At night, the street near the old bridge is lined with fruit shake vendors. Try a million — the city is famous for them. Also, if you only do one thing in this entire itinerary, make sure it’s eating the ribs at the Rusty Keyhole — they are some of the best ribs I’ve ever had.

Week 11: Siem Reap and Angkor Wat Follow the above suggestions for Siem Reap and Angkor Wat but at a slower pace. There’s a lot to see and do in the area. You can easily spend several days just exploring Angkor Wat. You can also do more day trips into the surrounding region.

A great way to spend a day is to head to Koh Ker, located in the jungle around 2.5 hours from town. Koh Ker was briefly the capital of the Khmer Empire, and many of the temples here are over a thousand years old. It’s a massive archeological site that sees far fewer tourists than Angkor Wat.

For another fun day trip, head to Phnom Kulen, considered the country’s most sacred mountain. It’s located just 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Siem Reap and offers some amazing jungles, hiking, and picturesque waterfalls where you can take a dip to beat the heat. You can easily spend a day here. If you head up to the summit, there are some great views, as well as a large reclining Buddha statue. Try to arrive early, as the park fills up by lunchtime.

There’s seemingly an island for every type of traveler here. Some are overdeveloped, while others only have a single bungalow. Some of my favorites are Ko Samet, Ko Taruato, Ko Lanta, Ko Chang, Ko Tao, Ko Jum, Ko Lipe, Ko Samui, and the Similan Islands. You could easily spend weeks (or months) bopping around to different islands, but if you’re on your last week, just choose one or two, depending on what you’re looking for.

Some recommendations to get you started:

Ko Lipe – This lesser-known island is one of my favorite places in the world. There are amazing seafood meals, beautiful beaches, and warm waters in which to swim and snorkel . I came for three days and ended up staying for a month. In the last few years, it has become more developed, and it’s not the sleepy little island it used to be, but it’s still way less touristy than many other destinations in Thailand.

Phuket – Phuket is the biggest destination for tourism in Thailand. There are great beaches and amazing activities on this island. While most visitors stick to the overdeveloped south, if you stay away from Patong Beach, you can avoid most of the crowds. In fact, the northern part of the island is one of my favorite places to visit in all of Thailand.

Ko Phangan – This island is home to the infamous Full Moon Party , one of the most famous parties in the world, with a lot of drinking, dancing, and drugs. Each bar has its own sound system, so you’ll hear different music loudly blasting onto the beach every few feet. The beach itself is lined with people selling alcohol, fire dancers putting on shows, and little booths selling glow-in-the-dark face paint.

Ko Tao – If you’re looking to dive in Thailand, go to Ko Tao , which caters specifically to divers. If you dive here, be sure to see Elephant Head Rock, as the reef is home to plenty of fish, snappers, rays, and turtles. Day trips start at 5,900 THB for two dives, including equipment and park fees. If you’ve never dived before, a day trip that teaches you all the basics starts at 2,500 THB while a four-day open water course starts at 11,000 THB.

After your time in the islands, head back to Bangkok for your return flight home.

If you’ve got even longer, this region has so much to offer — from Malaysia to Singapore to Indonesia and more!

The best time to visit Southeast Asia largely depends on your preferences, where exactly you’re going, and what you plan to do. But generally, the dry season, spanning from November to April, is prime time for travelers. During these months, countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos boast sunny skies, lower humidity levels, and comfortable temperatures.

If you don’t mind occasional rain showers, the shoulder season (from May to October) is much less crowded. You’ll get lower prices on accommodations too. July to September is the peak holiday season and when you can expect to pay the highest rates.

This is all a vast generalization though, as it’s a big region and conditions vary drastically depending on where you are. Be sure to check my Southeast Asia Travel Guide and specific country guides for more information.

U.S. citizens don’t need a visa for many countries in Southeast Asia, and where a visa is required, it’s usually pretty easy to get. Assuming the purpose of your trip is tourism only, here are the latest visa requirements:

• Thailand: U.S. citizens can enter Thailand visa-free for up to 30 days.
• Vietnam: U.S. citizens need a visa to enter Vietnam. The easiest option is an e-visa through the Vietnam Immigration website. The e-visa is valid for a maximum of 90 days and does not allow for renewal from within the country. You can also get one through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate.
• Cambodia: U.S. citizens can get a visa on arrival at major entry points or apply in advance for an e-visa. Both options typically allow for stays of up to 30 days.
• Laos: U.S. citizens need a visa to enter Laos. Visas can be obtained on arrival at major entry points or in advance through a Laotian embassy or consulate. You can extend the visa for up to 60 days through the Department of Immigration in Vientiane.
• Myanmar (Burma): U.S. citizens need a visa to enter Myanmar. You can either get an e-visa online in advance or apply through a Burmese embassy or consulate.
• Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and the Philippines: U.S. citizens typically do not need visas for short stays (usually up to 30 days) in any of these countries.

Visa requirements do change periodically though, so be sure to check before your trip in case any of the above has changed. Also ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months after the end of your trip and that you have enough blank pages for entry visas. While not all countries require this, most do!

Southeast Asia is one of the best regions to backpack in. It’s fun, affordable, safe, and has something for everyone. But it can be tricky to plan a trip here, as there is a ton to see and do. So, as you try to craft the perfect Southeast Asia itinerary, just keep in mind that plans change. You meet people or learn about something new, and all of a sudden your meticulous preparation goes out the window.

These days, I leave much more room in case plans change — because they always do. Give yourself that wiggle room. That way, no matter what comes your way, you’ll be able to adapt.

Be flexible. Go slow.

That’s how you plan an amazing itinerary. Not only to Southeast Asia but anywhere in the world!

Book Your Trip to Southeast Asia: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. It is my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is being left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as it has the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancelations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money too.

Want More Information on Southeast Asia? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Southeast Asia for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Our 3 months in South America Itinerary

Our first big trip together, besides a couple of weekends away, was to South America. We planned our 3 month South America travel route together, something I’d been wanting to do for years but was saving until after graduation.

If you’re hoping to spend some time backpacking South America, I’ve put together our South America itinerary for 3 months below.

It was such a fun backpacking South America route and I can remember it so vividly; a sign of a great trip I think!

We travelled South America as a couple – our first backpacking trip – and now we’re married so I think things worked out pretty well, wouldn’t you agree?

We visited Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay (well, we got the stamp!), Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands . We had an amazing time and have since then taken other big trips together including a 3-month cross-USA road trip route in our self-converted campervan, and have moved to Canada.

Our South America travels are perfect for first-time backpackers to South America hoping to see the main bucket list South America sites but also do some unique activities too.

Whilst I wouldn’t change much of our South American itinerary, I’d look to add Colombia to the end of our trip. Before we went to South America I’d not heard much about this country (& what I had heard wasn’t exactly positive).

However, once we landed in Peru many of the backpackers we met told us how much fun they’d had there. Just an excuse for us to go back, hey?

Table of Contents

Our South America Travel Route – A 3-month South American Itinerary

When you start planning your South America trip and looking up how long it takes to get between places, you’ll quickly notice just how MASSIVE South America is. After all, it is a continent and each of the countries within that continent is pretty big!

Deciding on where to go, which country to start in, and how to get from place to place can be a tricky task. You’re probably going to want to do everything but in most cases, time and money (let’s be real) won’t allow for absolutely everything.

That’s the situation we were in. Though we’d graduated and were doing some part-time jobs to save up for our trip, our overall budget was pretty modest. It was also the first time either of us had done such a long trip. My longest before then was a month spent visiting Australia’s East Coast.

This South America travel blog post will help you decide where to go and how to get there, what to do and give you an idea of how much money you’ll need. If you’ve still got questions, feel free to leave them in the comments at the end and I’ll get back to you!

Have you got travel insurance? I’ve been using SafetyWing for a while and it’s incredibly easy, affordable and overall hassle-free! Make sure you check them out before your trip (or after, you can subscribe even if the trip has already started!). They offer subscription-based travel insurance which is great for digital nomads. It allows you to claim medical expenses, and you can add travel coverage to cover your for lost or stolen belongings or additional expenses due to delayed travel.

3 month South America itinerary

This South America backpacking route starts in Lima, Peru. Peru was our favourite country in our whole South America trip. The food was great, the people were friendly, the country has everything from beaches to mountains, rainforest to deserts AND it was one of the cheaper countries too.

We’ll then head from Peru down into Bolivia, across to Brazil, into Argentina and down to Uruguay then back into Argentina, across to Peru and north to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.

I’ve linked to other South America travel guides where relevant so you can find more information about some of the most popular destinations to visit in South America.

A South America map of our travel route and the places we visited. Click the image to view the interactive map which you can save to your phone!

Here are the places we visited in Peru and some links to more detailed posts about them. Make sure to add these activities to your Peru bucket list for your South America travel route!

Lima is the capital of Peru and sits on the coast. It’s full of beautiful buildings and has plenty of museums to explore too so that you can get to know more about the fascinating ancient history of Peru.

The best area to stay in Lima is Miraflores which is the more touristy area, but also the safest and one with the most restaurants and things to do.

Some of the best things to do in Lima, Peru are:

• Swim with Sea Lions in the Pacific Ocean
• Take a Peruvian food tour
• Experience the Lima Magic Lights Circuit & the Catacombs

A few hours down the coast from Lima is Paracas. Paracas is often called ‘the poor man’s Galapagos’ as it’s a great place to do some nature watching.

It’s home to blue-footed boobies (a type of bird) and many more animals that are best viewed by taking a boat ride out to the islands.

The boat rides out to the islands are the best things to do in Paracas by far. If you’re not planning on visiting the Galapagos I’d recommend taking a boat tour.

Boot a boat tour in Paracas.

Not a city or really even much of a town, but a VERY fun place to spend a day or two. Huacachina is super popular with backpackers in South America due to the sand dunes which surround the little oasis that is Huacachina.

Here you can go sandboarding , or take a dune buggy ride both of which I recommend!

Book a sunset sandboarding and dune buggy tour

You may have heard of the Nazca lines before, if you’re taking PeruHop you’ll stop off here and have the chance to climb a tower to view these mysterious lines from above.

However, the only true way to see them is by taking a flight above them which is pretty expensive for backpackers. Having said that it’s definitely the only way to really see them, the tower doesn’t offer you much in the way of views of the Nazca Lines.

Book a Nazca Lines flight

Honestly, I’d save your money for something else and wouldn’t make a special trip to stop here unless you were nearby.

Arequipa is a city with beautiful architecture and a place to stop off at if you wish to visit the Colca Canyon.

Colca Canyon

One of the world’s deepest canyons, the Colca Canyon is a well-known trekking destination. It’s a habitat for the giant Andean condor which is the largest flying bird in the world!

Book a Colca Canyon trip

Cusco is one of the most popular stops for travellers to South America as it’s the gateway to Machu Picchu. This town is at 3,339m above sea level so it’s a good idea to spend the best part of a week here to acclimatise to the altitude before heading off to Machu Picchu.

If you didn’t book a trekking South America tour in advance you may be able to find a last-minute opening by walking around the tourist companies.

Otherwise, you can take trips to the Lost City, or head up to Sacsayhuaman (pronounced “sexy woman”) another Inca city within walkable distance from Cusco centre.

Another cool thing to do in Cusco is a day trip to Rainbow Mountain . This wasn’t an option when we visited back in 2014, but it’s now one of the best things to do in Cusco.

Book a trip to Rainbow Mountain here.

The Humantay Lake trip is also really special. You’ll head out to a beautiful alpine lake similar to those found in Canada in terms of colour!

Visit Humantay Lake on this guided tour.

Machu Picchu & Aguas Calientes

Whether you hike or get the bus or train, Machu Picchu is an absolute MUST-see in Peru. This famous Lost City of the Incas is absolutely stunning.

It’s one of those places that lives up to your expectations, even when your expectations are ridiculously high. We took the Salkantay trek to get there. 

However, you can also take day trips to Machu Picchu from Cusco with return transport if you don’t want, or don’t have the time, to hike.

Read more about how to get to Machu Picchu.

Lake Titicaca & Puno

From Cusco, we headed to Lake Titicaca and the town of Puno. There’s not a whole lot to see in Puno, it’s basically where people stay the night before getting an early bus to Bolivia or north into Peru.

Lake Titicaca , however, is worth seeing. This high-altitude lake is home to a community that makes their houses and the islands they live on out of reeds.

Find out more about Lake Titicaca.

Once we flew from Buenos Aires back to Lima, we headed north up the coast to Mancora. This beach town was entirely unexpected by us during our backpacking South America trip.

I never realised Peru has such beautiful beaches! Pocitas Beach just outside the town was our favourite.

While this town has grown hugely in popularity, we loved spending a relaxing week at the beach, drinking Mancora milkshakes and relaxing.

Iquitos & the Amazon Rainforest

From Mancora, we took the long route to Iquitos in the Amazon rainforest (and went piranha fishing in the Amazon !). Most visitors to Iquitos fly there from Lima, but we floated down the Amazon river on a cargo ship and this is perhaps one of the most memorable experiences of our entire trip.

The boat to Iquitos is one adventure I think about often (even though it’s been almost 10 years since then!)

Sure, it took a long time but it was such a cool thing to do.

Bolivia was our least favourite country during our backpack in South America. Probably because we both got very ill. But, it was by far the cheapest (a 3-course meal for £3!) and we still had some very cool experiences here.

Many people love exploring the wild landscapes of Bolivia and the colourful cities.

If you’re travelling from Peru, Copacabana is the first town you’ll get to as it’s right across the border. There’s not a whole lot to do here other than wait for the next bus out.

La Paz is one of the highest-altitude capital cities in the world and it’s a bustling city. There are tonnes of street markets (including the Witches’ Market) which are fun to explore.

It’s home to super cheap lunch menus (look for “menu del dia”) and nowadays there’s a cable car that will take you to the top of the mountain walls that surround the city.

You can also get tours from La Paz to cycle down Death Road . Less scary these days than it used to be, but still an exhilarating experience you’ll cycle down this notoriously dangerous road on (pretty old) mountain bikes.

There’s now a cable car in La Paz and this tour of the city includes a cable car trip which is such a unique way to view this incredible city.

Salar de Uyuni

The largest salt flat in the world, and one of the top places to visit for any Bolivia backpacker, the Salar de Uyuni is an amazing place.

The best way to visit is to book a tour. You can book one that drops you off in Northern Chile if that’s your next stop, or you can book a circular route.

Check out this guide to the best salt flats tours including how to see the salt flats at sunset!

From Bolivia, we worked our way across land via Santa Cruz in Bolivia to Corumba in Brazil to Campo Grande and the Pantals (a wetland home to jaguars and many, many species of wildlife) and then to the Brazilian coast and inwards again to Iguassu Falls.

The Pantanals

The Pantanals were an unexpected surprise. We hadn’t planned to go here but had a great few days chilling out and taking trips out to see wildlife.

Iguassu Falls

Amazing waterfalls and the meeting point of three countries (Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay).

Though we enjoyed visiting from the Brazilian side the most, it’s worth visiting from both the Brazilian and Argentinan sides to get the full experience.

On the Brazilian side, you can do a super fun (and wet) boat tour to get closer to the falls.

Book your ticket to Iguassu Falls with a boat ride here.

Also, if you’re looking to get another stamp in your passport, you can cross the bridge into Paraguay from the Brazilian side (just don’t do it after dark as it can be quite dangerous!).

We loved visiting Ilhabela. It was our first ever Airbnb experience and our hosts took us with them to their friends to watch Brazil play in the World Cup, to a local school fundraiser and for ice cream. It was such a nice way to get to know the island.

Ilha Grande

Ilha Grande is a small island (don’t let the name fool you), that’s home to beautiful beaches and forest. Take walks, swim and hang out in a hammock. There are no cars on the island here making it even more chilled out!

This beautiful town is extremely photogenic and has plenty of beaches and islands to explore.

You can also book a boat from here to Ilha Grande in advance of your trip.

A huge Brazilian city, Sao Paulo is full of skyscrapers and museums. There are also cool places like Batman Alley to explore too.

Take a tour with a local to see the main sights.

Rio de Janeiro

You’ve definitely heard of Rio before and you can’t go backpacking to South America without visiting Rio! Honestly, it’s a must on anyone’s 3 month South America itinerary route!

This party city has plenty to see and do including Christ the Redeemer ; the giant statue of Christ that looks over the city.

This 6-stop highlight tour of Rio is a great way to experience the city.

Though it was cold and very wet during our visit, I enjoyed exploring Uruguay a little. It was a country I’d never really heard much about but thoroughly enjoyed. To get to Argentina we took the ferry from Montevideo to Buenos Aires.

The capital of Uruguay, Montevideo , is home to over a 1/3 of the country’s population. This coastal city is home to the 10-mile Rambla, a walkway between the beach and the city, and some great food markets too.

Be sure to take a tour of Punte del Este while in Montevideo which is full of beauty and luxurious housing.

If you’re travelling around South America and looking for something different, check out Montevideo. It was a pleasant stop on our South America itinerary 3 months plan.

Tacuarembó – Cowboy camp

Another of our more unique backpacking experiences in South America was spending time on a cowboy ranch . We rode horses, saw armadillos and skunks and had a great time despite the pouring rain!

Our first steps in Argentina were at Iguassu Falls where we viewed the falls from the Argentinan side . This was one of the big things we wanted to tick off during our 3 month itinerary in South America.

We then skirted down the eastern side of the country all the way to Uruguay before crossing back into Argentina from Uruguay and spending a few days in Buenos Aires.

If you have more time, consider visiting Mendoza and Argentina wine country.

Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is a beautiful city. Though it’s probably the most expensive one on this South American backpacker route, it’s still worth visiting.

It’s a great city to add to your South America trip itinerary.

Some of the best things to do in Buenos Aires include:

• Enjoying dinner with a tango show
• Taking a guided tour of the city

From Argentina, our South America trip planner saw us fly back to Lima, go north to Iquitos then fly to Quito.

We didn’t spend a huge amount of time in Ecuador; just a couple of days in Quito and then off to the Galapagos Islands where we stayed for a week.

I’ve listed a couple of other Ecuador destinations that are popular with backpackers and worth visiting if you have space in your South America 3 month itinerary.

The capital city of Ecuador, near Quito, is where you can find the equator at Mitad del Mundo , explore historic buildings and take the teleferico (cable car) up to the high point of the city.

Cotopaxi National Park, Ecuador

This beautiful national park is home to the 5,900 m high volcano, Cotopaxi. If you’re a keen hiker taking a tour of the volcano is well worth adding to your 3 months South America itinerary.

Baños

A popular backpacking town, Baños is famous for its beautiful natural surroundings, the swing on the edge of a cliff and for being a base for outdoor adventures!

Popular Ecuadorian riverside town that is full of beautiful colonial buildings and hipster cafes.

Galapagos Islands

When travelling south America, a visit to the Galapagos Islands is definitely bucket list material.

The Galapagos Islands aren’t cheap but you can still visit the Galapagos Islands on a budget. You don’t need to book a cruise (in fact I’d advise against it), to see the wildlife.

It’s truly everywhere, and day excursions will get you out into the sea for diving and snorkelling opportunities.

Ideas for a longer backpacking route in South America

There are obviously ways to shorten the route by just visiting one of two countries from the itinerary above while travelling in South America.

You could also lengthen the route by visiting countries like Columbia and Chile, or spending more time in Argentina and Ecuador.

When we travelled to South America, Columbia was only just becoming a popular destination for backpackers and I’d love to go back one year and see what it’s like.

I’d also  love to go back and explore the numerous hiking routes of Patagonia on another trip travelling South America.

How much does it cost to backpack South America?

Our south america travel budget: £3500/£4000.

Our budget for this South America travel itinerary was roughly £3500 for 3 months travel in South America including flights to and from the UK and a couple of internal flights (Brazil to Peru, Peru to Galapagos Islands). It doesn’t include the cost of travel insurance, gear or vaccinations.

This is based on staying in cheap private rooms in hostels and hotels. Hotels in South America are often cheaper than hostels if you’re splitting the cost between two since you split the price of one room rather than paying for two beds. Ie. this was the cost to travel South America on a budget.

We also opted for overnight bus journeys since that saved on the cost of hotels and we’d have to pay for the transport anyway.

It also included the cost of activities such as our Salkantay trek, day excursions during our stay on the island of Santa Cruz in the Galapagos Islands and others.

However, we’re not big drinkers, and are more than happy to save on food; either cooking for ourselves or eating cheaply when eating out.

While we were travelling we stuck to a budget of about £35 a day ($45US). Some days we spent more, some days less, but overall it was around this amount a day.

How long to spend backpacking South America?

This itinerary for South America is based on spending three months on a South America travel route. We moved pretty quickly and fit a lot into a short amount of time but it was totally worth it.

If you have longer to spend (/more money to spend!) then anywhere between 4-6 months will allow you to see places more slowly and visit additional countries such as Colombia and Chile.

To plan or not to plan?

If this is your first big trip you maybe someone (like me) who’s tempted to plan EVERYTHING.

I’d advise you not to.

Hear me out. Some places you’re going to love and want to stay longer exploring. Other places you’re going to just not gel with and want to get away from as quickly as possible. If you’ve booked 1 night in the former and 4 nights in the latter you’re not going to be happy OR you’re going to lose money on non-refundable deposits.

Having said all that some things you’re just going to have to book, or  should  book to have a much more relaxing backpacking trip in South America.

Things we booked before travelling to South America

We booked our flights to Lima, Peru from the UK and then left from Quito in Ecuador (via Lima) back to the UK.

We also booked our Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu . The Inca Trail was already booked up (we booked at least 3 months in advance), but I’m actually so glad we took this trek instead!

We also won tickets in the lottery for World Cup football games in Brazil which meant we had to be in Brazil by a certain point.

And, since we knew we wanted to visit the Galapagos, we booked a flight from Argentina to Peru (to get us back on the west coast after Brazil) and to the Galapagos Islands, and back from Quito.

Our itinerary was a bit back and forth, but it worked for us.

Skyscanner is what I use to find cheap flights.

The best time to go to South America

If you live in the northern hemisphere, then remember that South America’s seasons are the opposite to what you’re used to. The northern countries are best visited May-September and the southern ones from October-April.

Our trip was from May to August.

Do I need travel vaccinations for South America travel destinations?

It’s likely you will need some South America travel vaccines. The requirements change from time to time so it’s worth checking at least 3 months before you go.

The  Fit For Travel website by the NHS  is full of useful advice.

When we travelled we made sure to get our Yellow Fever vaccination since countries such as Brazil said they’d check your certificate at the border.

We also got Malaria tablets to take with us since we were spending time in the Amazon Rainforest.

Additionally, if you’re worried about altitude, you may want to take Diamox, or a similar drug to help mitigate the effects you can get from altitude sickness. While I took this in the Himalayas, we didn’t take it during our trip to South America.

What visas do you need to backpack South America?

If you’re from the EU, chances are you won’t need to get any visa in advance. Most countries in South America will give you a 90-day visa upon entry.

Check each country’s government travel advice pages to see what the visa requirements are before you travel to South America.

How to get around South America?

With such a big continent, how will you know how to get around? Here are the methods we used!

Buses in South America

The best way to travel South America is to get buses from place to place.

You’ll likely be spending A LOT of time on overnight buses as you backpack South America. It’s by far the cheapest and easiest way to travel across the continent and you’ll be pleased to know that the buses in South America are actually pretty luxurious. I think the longest stint we did on back-to-back buses was 26 hours!

Depending on what class seat you book, you can enjoy fully-reclining seats, meal service (like aeroplane meals) and onboard entertainment! However, I  would  recommend packing a blanket or plenty of warm clothes as some of the buses, especially in Bolivia and other high altitude areas, do get VERY cold overnight.

In Peru, we used  PeruHop  which had just started as a company a few months before we used it. It’s a bit like the Oz Experience for road tripping on Australia’s east coast.

While it is a hop on hop off bus, typically you’re travelling with the same group of people for a week or so since people move places at roughly the same speed. If this is your first extended travelling experience, I’d recommend doing Peru Hop as they’ll organise hotels for you too but it’s not a bus tour in the sense that they’re then guiding you around each of the cities and stops you make. You also have the option to book your own accommodation.

When we travelled in South America back in 2014, Peru Hop only went from Lima to Cusco but I believe they’ve expanded their service to include many other stops (& other countries too).

Buses throughout South America tend to go from one big bus station in the town or city you’re in. This station will be pretty hectic with people shouting out the name of the town their bus company is going to next.

There’ll be several different bus companies going to the same place and their prices will vary. Sometimes not by much, but sometimes by a lot. Some buses will also take longer.

At first, this experience may be a little stressful, but you’ll get the hang of it! Oh, and don’t forget to haggle, chances are you can get the price down much lower than they’ll tell you to begin with.

If you want to be more prepared, you can book buses in advance, and get an idea of the prices of the tickets, by using  Busbud

Flights in South America

While you can do some internal flights as we did, they’re more expensive and honestly travelling by bus between places is actually pretty fun. You’ll meet other travellers and get to see the scenery as you drive past it.

Getting around cities in South America

You’ll likely use these three forms of transport when getting around the larger cities in South America.

Collectivos

Collectivos are likely doing Uber Pool but without the Uber app. They’re typically a standard car that will drive faster, and make less stops than a bus.

They’ll only go when they’re full, so this may mean the driver won’t leave the station for a while until they’ve drummed up enough customers to fill the car. OR, they’ll drive slow through the city shouting out the destination hoping someone will hop in.

We only used these in areas where there were no buses going where we needed to go. This was mostly in northern Peru as we tried to navigate from  Mancora to Iquitos .

While some of the larger cities in South America likely have Uber now (it didn’t exist when we travelled there!), more often you’ll be using local taxi companies. Once the drivers realise you’re a foreigner they’ll likely up the price that a local would pay.

For this reason, it’s a good idea to agree on a price  before  you get in the taxi. Sometimes they’ll insist on using the metre but the metre will be set to a higher rate or perhaps you insist on using the metre but then they turn it off and tell you it’s not working and just make up a (usually very high) price you now need to pay.

Smaller city buses

Cities also have smaller minivan-style buses that work much like a bus system anywhere in the world. We used these city buses in Lima to get between museums and around the city. The ticket is usually a flat fee so you just need to remember where to get off.

FAQs on South America Travelling

How to travel south america.

Travelling in South America is very popular with backpackers. While it may seem daunting most backpackers visit the same cities and attractions so you’ll meet plenty of people along the way. I think it’s a great destination for backpackers looking for adventure! The information above will help you plan how to travel South America.

How long to travel South America?

Three months is a great amount of time to experience South America. In this time you can do many of the bucket list things as well as explore several countries.

How to travel around South America?

The easiest and cheapest way to travel around South America is by bus. If this is your first backpacking trip I’d recommend using a company like Peru Hop. Otherwise, you can find plenty of domestic and international long-haul bus companies in South America. They’re usually pretty comfortable with reclining seats and meals served onboard too.

How to plan a trip for South America

You’re starting well by reading this blog post of our 3-month itinerary for South America. Make a list of the places you want to travel to, look up the things you want to do and get an idea of costs. See what fits within your budget and then book those flights!

About backpacking in South America

Often referred to as one of the most diverse continents on Earth, South America is home to hundreds of beautiful natural sites and history.

This continent is where you’ll find the 2nd highest mountain range in the world, the largest rainforest and the world’s driest desert.

No matter how long you have to visit South America, you’re sure to come across something that truly takes your breath away. Each country is unique and offers a different history, culture and natural sights. You’re set to have a fantastic time!

Backpacking in South America is favoured since it’s a pretty cheap place to travel when compared to North America or travelling in Europe in particular. Whilst not as cheap as South East Asia, you’ll still be okay with a relatively modest budget to cover your food, accommodation, travel and activities.

Our 3 months in South America, including the return flights there and back to the UK, cost us around £3500/$3800US in 2014. This included a couple of internal flights that could be avoided and we didn’t stay in shared hostel dorms much either.

There’s more information about a 3 months in South America budget below.

Last Updated on November 8, 2023 by Hannah

Hannah started That Adventurer after graduating back in 2013 and has documented all of her adventures since then. From backpacking South America to city breaks in Europe , a 3 month road trip across the USA in a self-converted van and 6 years living in Canada , you’ll find posts on all of this.

Hannah specialises in active travel and on That Adventurer you’ll find hiking, walking, biking, skiing and all sorts of active travel guides to allow you to see a destination in an adventurous way.

Now back in Europe, you’ll find new guides as Hannah and her husband spend the next year ‘digital nomading’ from Norway to Portugal, Switzerland to Scotland and places in between.

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Hi! I will be heading to South America for 3/4 months next summer. Where did you start?! It looks like you fit a lot of places in!

We started in Lima then headed South, overland to Brazil, then to Iguassu, overland to Uruguay, ferry to Buenos Aires, flight back to Peru then North into the Amazon and over to the Galapagos.

We definitely fit a lot in, but there’s SO much to see. Our route was a bit weird to make sure we were in Brazil for the World Cup!

Would recommend visiting Columbia, we didn’t, but every one we met said it was a fantastic country. If you’ve got more questions you can always email me, I’d love to help anyway possible! x

Hi!! A friend and I are heading to South America for 5 months from July but we’ve got so many questions and are feeling a little out of place! Where did you start?? Your trip looks amazing! 🙂

Hey Jodi! Wow, 5 months? That’s going to be amazing! Do you have any idea of where you want to go?

I’d love to help you with any questions you may have! Just send me an email at [email protected] .

I started in Peru and went South to Bolivia, then overland to Brazil (rio, sao paulo and Ilhabela, Ilha grande), flew from Rio to Iguassu went by bus from Iguassu to Uruguay then boat from Uruguay to Argentina. From Argentina flew back to Peru and this time went North and into the Amazon. From the Amazon we flew to Ecuador and the Galapagos then back to England!

Look forward to hearing from you! x

Hey Hannah,

I have been thinking about visiting South America for a long time now – do you know how much you spent during your time in South America, so I can get an idea of a budget to work towards.

Roughly speaking it was probably £3,500 (excluding flights), maybe a bit less/bit more! But we did everything we wanted to including the Galapagos. We were there for 3 months, so I guess a budget would depend how long you want to go for too. If you’ve got any questions feel free to send me an email 🙂 [email protected] x

Hi I love this post so much! I graduate college in December so plan on treating myself to a trip around South America since I am a Spanish minor and it’s been a dream to see Machu Pichu and other places. When you say backpack do you mean you guys set up tent or just that you traveled around the countries? Did you at all have to rent a car to get to these places or were the buses enough to rely on? While I dont plan on going to Brazil and instead want to tack on Patagonia and possibly parts of southern Chile, I also do not have a set time line.

Hi Virginia, I just mean we travelled with a backpack rather than tent camped! Buses were definitely enough to get around. There are so many and they’ll go between all major cities. Long distance bus journeys in South America were actually quite nice. They generally have reclining seats (if you pay a bit more they’re fully reclining like a bed) and you can even get meal service on some of them – like being on a plane!

I too would love to go to Patagonia one day!

GREAT ITINERARY AND DETAILS!

Hi, love the post. Can I ask if your budget of 3500 was combined or was it each? Thanks

It was each

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Dreamer at Heart |

The Best 3 Month South America Itinerary

Last Updated: July 4, 2022 By Alison Browne 31 Comments

This 3-month South America itinerary includes the countries of Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Colombia. I found all the stops on this South America itinerary intriguing for the curious and adventuresome traveller.

1. Considerations For Planning A 3 Month Itinerary In South America

When planning a 3-month itinerary to South America, it is important to consider:

• How long do you have?
• Do you speak any Spanish? What about Portuguese?
• Do you know which vaccinations you need?
• What is your budget?
• What is the weather like?
• How long does it take to travel between destinations?
• Are you travelling by bus?
• Are you taking any flights? If so do you have exit tickets booked?
• Where is your heart set on exploring?

Whatever type of trip you are looking for, South America will deliver. Remember to leave some room in your itinerary for spontaneity and flexibility.

Read More: Read my post on Proof of Onward Travel and check out Onward Ticket to avoid hassles at any border crossings, especially if you are a nomadic traveller without set entry and exit dates.

Read More: Check out my tips on planning your travels.

Read More: Are you a solo female traveller? Read my article on travel in Solo South America Is It Safe?

2. South America Itinerary 3 Months: Peru

Why I Started in Peru: The starting point of this 3 month South America itinerary was a weather-based decision. It was November and already the start of the rainy season. If I had started in Colombia and worked my way south, I would have been in southern Peru in the height of the wet season. Thus, Peru became the starting point.

I feel like every stop I made in Peru was a highlight on this 3 Month South America Itinerary.

Ollantaytambo, Peru

The altitude is lower in Ollantaytambo, Peru than in Cusco, so it is a good idea to head there first and acclimatize to the altitude and avoid altitude sickness.

Don’t make this mistake: On the way to Ollantaytambo, I stopped at several sights in the Sacred Valley Chinchero, Moray and the Maras Salt mines. It was a marvellous introduction to Peru except that the altitude at these sites is even higher than Cusco. By the time I arrived in Ollantaytambo I was suffering from altitude sickness.

Ollantaytambo is the perfect place to ease into solo travel in South America. It is a small, easy-to-navigate town, where irrigation canals babble with running water and two massive Inca archaeological sites tower over the town.

I used Ollantaytambo as a base to recover from altitude sickness, gain my confidence in South American solo travel and, of course, take the train to Agua Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Read More: Ollantaytambo Peru | A Traveller’s Guide

Where to Stay in Ollantaytambo Peru

Book A Transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo

From Ollantaytambo : Book your Machu Picchu Vistadome Round trip Train Ticket and a tour of the Sacred Valley

Machu Picchu, Peru (A Definite Highlight on a South America Itinerary)

A South America travel route through Peru just has to include Machu Picchu and it is easy to get there from Ollantaytambo. Take PeruRail direct to Agua Calientes.

To stand in awe amidst the soaring Andes, shrouded in misty clouds and marvel at the humans who created this Inca citadel is a highlight of any South America itinerary.

Despite the crowds, even in low season, and the rules (you can’t circle back or re-enter to take photos or have another look) soaking up the ruins of Machu Picchu and hanging with the llamas is a memorable experience.

Pro Travel Tip s:

• Save time and avoid long lineups by booking your Machu Picchu entry ticket in advance.
• If you are also planning to hike to Huayna Picchu, you must book in advance as there are limited spots each day. Here is a joint entry to Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu .
• Don’t forget to book your round-trip bus transfer from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
• You can also take a full-day guided tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco
• For the adventurers and hikers, book well in advance for treks such as the 8-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

Cusco, Peru

The lively city of Cusco, the Inca empire’s ancient capital, brims with steep cobbled streets, historic architecture and antique churches. Today the tourism trappings are overwhelming but somehow the delights of this centuries-old city shine through and it is a mandatory stop any backpacking to South America trip

Built in the shape of a puma, this city will have you constantly out of breath between the hilly streets and the high altitude. It’s the perfect place to be an urban explorer but be prepared to be inundated with ladies offering massages (minimum 25 times a day), to pay for a photo with llamas and to roll your eyes at the McDonald’s in the main square, Plaza de Armas. Peel back the layers and discover the essence of ancient Cusco.

The 3 Month South America Itinerary: Where To Stay in Cusco Peru

Book a tour from Cusco to the Sacred Valley , if you haven’t been yet. I heard fabulous things about Humantay Lake but didn’t get there. Will you?

The Sacred Valley, Peru

The Sacred Valley with the Rio Urubamba twisting and turning and the soaring Andes rising on either side is breathtaking. Full of sights worth visiting, purchase the “boleto touristico” (the tourist ticket) which gives a reduced entry fee to multiple sights. Pisac and Ollantaytambo sit in the Sacred Valley along with other Inca sites and villages. Don’t miss Chinchero, Moray and the Maras Salt mines.

I travelled independently to Pisac from Cusco on the local buses and by collectivo. Read about the Pisac ruins and the bustling Pisac market. Or, if you are taking a tour of the Sacred Valley , make sure it includes Pisac!

Rainbow Mountain, Peru

Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicuna, is a relatively new tourist destination and a must on a 3 month South America itinerary. If you like a little challenge and adventure, plan a trip to Rainbow Mountain! It’s a full-day trip from Cusco and the journey through the Andes is jaw-dropping. My nose was pressed to the window as we passed through minuscule Andean towns and watched llamas grazing on the hillsides. The blizzard on the hike down from the summit was unexpected!

Read up on everything you need to know before your hike to Rainbow Mountain.

Book your tour to Rainbow Mountain from Cusco

Lake Titicaca: the Islands of Uros, Amantani & Taquile

Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, is definitely worth adding to any South America itinerary. Head to Puno, and from there book either a day trip or an overnight homestay on one of the islands.

If you are looking to stay with a family, read this post on what to expect in a homestay on Amantani Island .

Uros, the closest island to Puno is worth a visit if you only have a short amount of time. Taquile is quite a long boat ride away but much less visited. Read about travelling to both of these islands: Islas Uros and Taquile: Step Back in Time.

Where To Stay in Puno .

Book A Tour: From Puno book a full-day tour to Uros Islands and Taquil e , or a half-day tour to the floating Uros Islands , or a 2-day trip to Uros, Amantani, and Taquile .

3. 3 Month South America Itinerary: Border Crossing Peru to Bolivia

Getting from one destination to the next requires careful consideration on a South America travel route. I really wanted to cross the border solo by taking public buses but in the end, decided on Bolivia Hop. The organized bus service called Bolivia Hop picks up passengers in Puno, facilitates the border crossing from Peru into Bolivia and drops everyone off in La Paz.

Book Your Transfer from Puno to La Paz stopping at Copacabana and Isla del Sol.

4. South America Itinerary: Bolivia

Isla del sol, bolivia.

After visiting Lake Titicaca from the Peru side, Copacabana on the shores of Lake Titicaca was the first stop in Bolivia with Bolivia Hop. There was enough time in this little hippie town to scrounge up a bite to eat and take a boat to Isla del Sol, the birthplace of the sun. Inca ruins, tiny villages, terraced fields and witnessing rural life are all highlights as you hike from one side of the island to the other.

Pro Travel Tip: You can also take a tour to Lake Titicaca, Copacabana, and Isla del Sol from La Paz.

Sucre, Bolivia

I flew from La Paz to Sucre, Bolivia to start Spanish school.

All through my travels in Central and South America, I have enrolled in Spanish language schools and lived with families to enhance the immersion experience.

Sucre was no different. Living in a family compound was a great chance to improve my Spanish, gain a different perspective on life in Bolivia and stay in one place for ten days on this 3 month South America itinerary.

The 3 Month South America Itinerary: Where To Stay in Sucre Bolivia

Uyuni, Bolivia

After researching how to book a tour across the Uyuni Salt Flats, I booked my tour in Sucre. There are plenty of tour operators in Uyuni and it is possible to book a tour with a tour operator in Uyuni once you arrive.

The local bus from Sucre to Uyuni is an 8-hour bus ride through very unfamiliar lunar type landscapes. There was absolutely nowhere to go to the bathroom, except a rock at the side of the road which was deemed a bathroom stop. I declined.

I was not overly impressed with Uyuni. I would not recommend lingering in Uyuni on your South America itinerary but simply use it as a starting point for the Salt Flats tour.

3 Month South America Itinerary: Where To Stay in Uyuni

Book your unique visit to the unforgettable Salt Flats from Uyuni. How will you go? On a 3-day Salt Flats and coloured lagoon tour, a Uyuni Salt Flats Luxury Tour or a sunset Salt Flats tour with wine tasting?

The Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

If you have time, this is a must on a South America itinerary. The largest salt flats in the world, the Uyuni Salt Flats, was a non-negotiable for me on this South America travel route. The unique landscape of infinite whiteness, the lack of perspective and standing on an ancient, ocean floor are unforgettable experiences.

It is possible to do a day tour from Uyuni. Choosing a 3 day-2 night tour to cross the Salt Flats and the uninhabited desert and mountainous landscapes that cover the southwest corner of Bolivia is quite the adventure. Geysers, flamingoes, overnight in a salt hotel. Yes, these highlights are all part of the tour. Could backpacking in South America get any better?

Read everything you need to know before you venture on this unforgettable journey.

5. South America Travel Route: Border Crossing Bolivia to Chile

On this part of the 3 month South America itinerary, one has to decide to cross into Chile or return to Uyuni, Bolivia.

On the 3-day 2-night Uyuni Salt Flat Tour, there is an option to be dropped off at the Chilean border. There is a shuttle from Chile that picks you up in Bolivia, facilitates the border crossing into Chile and drives you to San Pedro de Atacama.

Some passengers decided en route that they were not up for the long drive back to Uyuni. The landscapes are outstanding but it is a long, rough ride. At the last minute, they were able to pay and join the group crossing the border.

6. 3 Month South America Itinerary: Chile

San pedro de atacama, chile.

San Pedro de Atacama is a hub for exploring the Atacama Desert. The town is full of foreign tourists and Chileans exploring their own country. Despite the overabundance of tour operators, San Pedro is a chill and hip little town. Make sure it is on your 3-month itinerary in South America.

From San Pedro, there are incredible landscapes to explore, including one of the clearest night skies in the world. Read about the wondrous things to discover.

Where To Stay in San Pedro de Atacama

Book Your Tours: Don’t miss an astronomical tour or a hike to the Láscar Volcano Summit and definitely don’t miss the El Tatio Geysers !

El Tatio Geysers, Chile

The El Tatio Geysers, the highest geyser field in the world, are a half-day trip from San Pedro de Atacama and well worth the early leaving time.

This post explains how to prepare for a visit to the highest geothermal field in the southern hemisphere.

Santiago, Chile

The price to travel by plane or by bus from San Pedro to Santiago were not significantly different. So I and opted for a flight to Santiago instead of a long bus ride.

Most people pass through Santiago at one point or another on their trip to Chile. Make sure you stay awhile and explore Chile’s capital city.

Read 15 Impressive Things to do in Santiago, Chile . Of course, there are more than 15 things to do in this vibrant city but these 15 will get you started.

The 3 Month South America Itinerary: Where to Stay in Santiago Chile

Book A Group Tour to Wine Country for the day or a private tour to Chilean wine country .

Valparaiso, Chile ( A Highlight of The 3 Month South America Itinerary)

Valparaiso is full of stunning street art, historical monuments and funiculars that ease the climb up the steep streets. Valpo, as the locals call it, is a must-see destination. I would rank it as one of the best places to go in South America!

This Ultimate Guide to Valparaiso is a detailed guide on what to see and do in this port city.

Where to Stay in Valparaiso Chile

Pro Travel Tip: If you don’t have time to stay in Valparaiso, it is worth doing a day trip from Santiago .

7. 3 Month South America Itinerary: Border Crossing: Chile to Colombia

Chilling at the airport waiting for my flight, I was completely unprepared when asked by the airline for my proof of onward travel.

Read this post, Proof of Onward Travel: Don’t Make This Mistake , to avoid hassles and use a valid travel hack.

8.South America Itinerary: Colombia

Medellin, colombia.

Medellin is known as a hub for digital nomads. It is also known as the former most dangerous city in the world. Comuna 13 was the most dangerous neighbourhood in the city.

Today the community is rebuilding and carving a new path. Find out more by reading this post: Comuna 13: Why it Should Be on Your Medellin Itinerary

The 3 Month South America Itinerary: Where to Stay in Medellin Colombia

Book your Comuna 13 Tour here and a tour of a Coffee Farm here

Guatapé, Colombia

Day trips are a great way to explore a country further and on this 3 month South America itinerary, Guatapé proved that! Guatapé is the perfect day trip from Medellin. This town, full of colourfully painted houses and a lively main square, sits on the shore of a huge artificial lake.

Climb the nearby Piedra del Peñol which is just outside of Guatapé. The bus from Medellin will drop you at “La Piedra.” From Piedra del Peñol, there are plenty of tuk-tuks to take you to Guatapé.

If you are taking the 2-hour public bus to Guatapé, be sure to purchase your return bus ticket when you arrive.

Book Your Organized Tour from Medellin to Guatapé here.

Salento, Colombia

If you have time in Colombia, add Salento to your 3 month South America itinerary. Salento is the perfect place to visit a coffee farm and take a Willy’s jeep out to the Cocora Valley to hike amidst Colombia’s national tree, the wax palm.

Find out all the details right here: Salento Colombia: My Favourite Town in Colombia.

W here to Stay in Salento

The joyous trek through the Cocora Valley – book a guided trek here and a small group tour to a coffee farm here .

Jardin, Colombia (A favourite stop on the 3 Month South America Itinerary)

It is a journey to get to Jardin way up in the Andes Mountains and an unforgettable destination. If you like authentic villages, this one is for you. I say it is a “must-see” on your 3 month South America itinerary.

Here are the details: The 5 Reasons You Just Have to Visit Jardin

Where to Stay in Jardin Colombia

Book your horseback riding tour to a waterfall here .

Santa Marta & Minca, Colombia

From Santa Marta take the bus to Minca. It’s 600 m up in the Sierra Nevada mountains. It’s cool (both rustically hip with cooler temperatures), has organic coffee farms, gorgeous birds and stunning views.

Most people travel through Santa Marta as it is the gateway to Tayrona National Park. It’s not really posted anywhere that Tayrona National Park is closed in February. Oops. So wish I had been able to take a day trip like this one .

The 3 Month South America Itinerary: Where To Stay in Santa Marta Colombia

Cartagena, Colombia

Another must-see on your South America itinerary is Cartagena. Cartagena is Colombia’s gem sitting on the Caribbean Sea. The UNESCO city is the perfect place to get lost amidst colourful façades on twisting cobblestone streets. Wandering the streets of Getsemani, camera in hand, was one of my favourite things to do in Cartagena.

Read this full guide on Things to do in Cartagena, Colombia: The Take it Slow Guide

Where to Stay in Cartagena Colombia

How about enjoying a Catamaran trip to the Rosario Islands ?

This 3 month South America itinerary checked all the boxes. I feel like all of my stops were highlights on this South America itinerary. Every stop was perfect for any curious and adventurous traveller. You’re going to fall in love with South America.

More Travel Info

If you’re travelling as a solo female traveller read my post: S olo Travel in South America | Is it Safe?

Need packing inspiration? I travelled for 3 months with changing temperatures (yes, Rainbow Mountain was cold at the top) and took a carry-on sized suitcase for all my belongings. Read how here: Wondering How to Pack Light? Tips from a Minimalist Traveller

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Alison Browne

Creator and Founder of Dreamer at Heart Alison, a Francophile from a young age, is following a long-held dream and has been living in Paris since 2020. Her passion for uncovering Paris and discovering the regions of France has resulted in an expertise about France that she loves to share in her articles. Also a solo traveller, Alison shares her experiences of solo travel to many corners of the world. Alison helps over 65000 readers a month plan their trips.

Reader Interactions

January 13, 2020 at 10:02 am

wow. what an amazing itinerary. So many must-see places!!

January 13, 2020 at 1:31 pm

South America is full of wonderful places to see. You could spend a lifetime exploring the continent!

January 15, 2020 at 4:42 pm

Wow, amazing photos! I wish i could go right now…

January 20, 2020 at 9:11 am

I’ll go with you! Where shall we start? I would happily go back to all 4 countries and explore further afield.

January 24, 2020 at 10:10 am

Where would you start?!

January 19, 2020 at 6:38 am

This is a totally timely blog post to find. We leave on Wednesday to travel around South America for 2 months. I love some of the sights you visited. Some spots are on our itinerary. And others like Bolivia will need to wait for another trip. It is clear from your blog post that our 2 months will just be a small taste test. We have some of our stops planned. But this will be good for some of the places we plan to wander on our own. I have pinned this and will use it as a reference guide along the way.

January 24, 2020 at 10:16 am

I hope you have a marvellous journey. I loved South America and my three months was indeed just a taste also. Where are you starting the trip?

January 19, 2020 at 12:14 pm

What an incredible journey you had! I am going to add it to my bucket list. I am working hard to get myself bilingual. Right now my Spanish is only okay.

January 24, 2020 at 10:17 am

Every bit of Spanish adds to the depth of the journey. I am a solid beginner and had many broken conversations with locals. Being bilingual would have been so great!

January 19, 2020 at 3:09 pm

Wonderful post! It’s amazing how similar our travels have been through Peru and, of course, Colombia, where we’re currently based in Medellín. You’ve given us lots of good info for our future travels to Chile and Bolivia. Thanks for this!

January 24, 2020 at 10:18 am

I wish I had known you last year when I was in Medellin for about 6 weeks. I hope you enjoy your future travels in Chile and Bolivia. I feel as though I just scraped the surface in both countries but it was enough of a taste to plan a return journey.

January 19, 2020 at 6:57 pm

the whole trip looks fantastic, but if I had to pick one country, Bolivia looks beautiful. Great post.

January 24, 2020 at 10:20 am

Yes, it really was an amazing trip! All of the countries were unique and spectacular! Bolivia’s landscapes were astonishing!

January 20, 2020 at 2:06 am

These countries in South America have been in my sights for sometime. Your journey and insightful information has fueled my desire.

Ah! That is great news! It is an amazing continent to explore!

January 20, 2020 at 11:31 am

Looks so stunning! South America looks like such a unique travel destination, Bolivia is one that is really catching my attention.

January 24, 2020 at 10:21 am

Bolivia is amazing. The trip across the Salar de Uyuni is unforgettable!

January 20, 2020 at 12:38 pm

I have always wanted to expand my Spanish. I never considered going to a Spanish Language School and homestay as an anchor for long term travelling. That could be the perfect bridge between time you’re out on the road and time that you want to be resting / stationary. As a writer, I could see how you could use that to catch up on the work you generated from your travels.

January 24, 2020 at 10:23 am

I love the homestays. They are quite intense though as all communication is done in the language you are learning. Also, there is plenty of homework to do for your Spanish classes. Plus you want to be exploring the location in which you are staying. So .. as per usual, finding the time to write is a struggle!!! But – I wouldn’t have it any other way. My homestays in Granada, Spain and Antigua Guatemala were also outstanding.

January 22, 2020 at 11:04 pm

Ooh, pinning this to re-read later! We’ve been talking about South America for our next big trip, and have been looking pretty seriously at Peru and Bolivia. All of this information is so helpful – thank you!

January 24, 2020 at 10:24 am

So glad the information is helpful. Peru and Bolivia are fabulous countries to explore.

January 23, 2020 at 3:28 am

What an amazing 3-month journey you had visiting all of these wonderful places and experiencing the people and their culture. You are an inspiration to this almost 50 traveler! What was your favourite? I am sure it would be so hard to choose. Bolivia and Peru would be mine.

January 24, 2020 at 10:25 am

Thank you, Renee. Each country was unique in its own way and my experiences were so varied. Hard to pick. Loved them all! Would return to each of them in a heart beat!

January 23, 2020 at 10:53 am

I am hoping to visit Colombia this year. I had it on my list for last year, but I was a bit worried about the protests going on. You mentioned some other locations in Colombia that I haven’t thought about and may have to consider them now 🙂

January 24, 2020 at 10:26 am

Colombia is full of travellers of all ages. It is a wonderful place to explore. Enjoy!

January 23, 2020 at 11:52 am

What a great post with a ton of info! Of all the countries you went to, Colombia is my favorite, but Bolivia is high on my travel wish list. Isla del Sol looks amazing, and of course I’d also like to see the salt flats while there. Your suggestion to consider the weather is a great one. I think there’s this common misconception that all of South America is more or less hot all year round, and that is simply not true. In fact, I think almost all the places I’ve been in South America have had comfortably mild temperatures!

January 24, 2020 at 10:27 am

Colombia is a wonderful country to explore. I did pull out that squashable down jacket on a few occasions!

January 24, 2020 at 4:56 am

What a great travel route! My husband and I were just talking about South American travel, particularly to Colombia. I would love to visit Chile and Peru, and also see Macchu Pichu in real life!

January 24, 2020 at 10:28 am

Seeing Machu Picchu was a highlight for sure! That’s one thing I love about travel. You can read about a place but when you are actually standing there, you can feel it and make your own impressions.

July 6, 2020 at 9:19 pm

You sure packed in a lot to see in 3 months! Wonderful post! Cheers!

July 13, 2020 at 10:15 am

Thank you- it was a wonderful journey. I would love to return and slow it all right down… spending months just living and exploring… (post Covid-19, of course).

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Plan Your Trip

Plan your rtw trip.

Finding the right round the world trip planner can be difficult. This is first and foremost because many such tools on the internet are only for planning (and, in some cases, booking) RTW flights. The truly difficult part of planning a trip around the world is deciding where to go, how long to stay and how to arrange your trip, so the content deficit (let alone how rare it is to find a quality world trip planner) is frustrating for many travelers.

The good news? Whether you want to travel all around the world, or simply want to visit multiple continents during a single trip, this guide covers all the bases you’ll need to hit as you plan your trip.

Of course, I’ll also touch on the particulars of buying a RTW ticket, including a somewhat contentious recommendation on my part. I’m about to share a great deal of information with you, but I promise: Planning a RTW trip is much, much easier than it looks.

Booking Round the World Flights

Many a round the world trip planner (which to say, any airline alliance website create for the purpose of selling flights) will tell you that booking a single RTW ticket is essential for a round the world trip. However, I don’t agree with this. In addition to the fact that having a single travel the world for a year itinerary (even a flexible one) can lock you in on a trip that will be anything but predictable, it’s often more cost effective to book individual segments, particularly if you have some miles or points to play with.

Let’s say, for example, that you live in the United States and want to fly around the world westward. After taking advantage of a rock-bottom one-way flight from the US to Japan or China , you can take advantage of low-cost flights as you explore Southeast Asia and Australia , then gradually make your way to Europe (and from there, Africa ), flying to South America before returning home, often for only a few hundred dollars per segment. A round-the-world ticket, on the other hand, which often only includes long-distance flights, can easily cost between $2,000-3,000. And that’s without the fees you’ll certainly have to pay to change it as your plans evolve.

How Long Does a Round the World Trip Take?

Whether or not you work with an around the world trip planner, you should keep in mind that as you plan a round the world trip, the issue of timing can be surprisingly far in the back of your mind, particularly if you’ll be traveling to regions of the world you’ve never visited. While two weeks traveling through Japan or Western Europe can allow you to cover a lot of ground, it’s woefully insufficient in places like India , Africa or even much of South America. In general, it’s safe to assume you’re probably underestimating how long you’ll need to devote to your trip.

Broadly speaking, I’d say the best round the world holidays last a minimum of six months, though I have personally taken epic trips in a shorter amount of time than that. On the other hand, I’d caution against traveling for longer than a year at a time, as being away from your “real life” for such a period can have other impacts on your well-being, ones you might not be able to anticipate right now.

How Much Does a Round the World Trip Cost?

Another deficiency of many a round the world trip planner (which is once again to say a flight booking tool) is that it provides only a piece of the cost puzzle—your round the world trip isn’t only going to cost a few thousand dollars. Generally speaking, the average cost of traveling anywhere in the world is between 50-150 USD per person, per day, which means that a conservative estimate for the cost of the ultimate around the world itinerary for a six-month trip (without your “big” flights) is between $9,000-27,000. Not cheap!

Of course, there are ways to decrease the cost of a travel around the world itinerary, whether you manage to find the cheapest round the world ticket, take advantage of opportunities for free or discounted stays (whether you couch surf or do some sort of volunteer program) or simply keep your dining out and shopping to a minimum. In general, however, I’d recommend over-estimating your budget than under-estimating it, if only so you don’t end up as a “begpacker.”

When to Take a Round the World Trip

When you travel around the world will depend upon where you want to go. While most of the sample round the world routes I’ll recommend in the next section are fairly evergreen, some destinations are better during certain months than others, and planning according to this can influence the rest of your travel trajectory.

For example, let’s assume you want to see the cherry blossoms in Japan , probably the world’s most famous seasonal spectacle. Whether you choose from my round the world trip ideas below or commission a custom 6 month travel itinerary, you’ll want to arrange the rest of your RTW trip to optimize the weather in all your destinations. You might head to Nepal after Japan, for instance, to trek when the country’s famous rhododendrons are blooming, or visit Australia and New Zealand before Japan to catch the tail end of warm weather Down Under.

Round the World Trip Ideas

The best of six continents.

Most round the world trip planners will want to see the “whole world” on their trips—all six inhabited continents, and potentially even Antarctica. Regardless of where your RTW travel originates, the general path you will follow is North America-Asia (Australia/New Zealand)-(Middle East/India) Europe (Africa)-South America-North America, or maybe in reverse depending upon where you start and what time of year you’re traveling.

In terms of a general flight path, this might look something like the following: Los Angeles-Vancouver- Tokyo – Bangkok – Sydney – Dubai – Paris -Cairo-Cape Town-London-Buenos Aires- Bogota -Houston. Needless to say there are countless variations, from a 6 month round the world trip to ones much longer!

Wonders of the World

Rather than taking a comprehensive approach (which can lead to a year or even longer on the road—again, not an option for the majority of travelers), you can start your world travel planner based on a finite list of world wonders, be it classic ones you find on an Asia trip planner like the Great Wall or ones you designate yourself, such as Barcelona ‘s Sagrada Familia church or Ethiopia’s “Door to Hell.”

Assuming you take a more classic route for your around the world itinerary, you might go about planning a round the world trip between wonders as follows. From Chicago to Beijing (for the Great Wall), then to Delhi (for the Taj Mahal), to Cairo (for the Pyramids ), to Athens (for the Acropolis), to London (for Stonehenge), to Rio de Janeiro (for Christ the Redeemer) to New York (for the Statue of Liberty). Again, this is highly customizable!

The Backpacker’s Trail

I’ve taken great pains within this round the world trip planner to be honest and sober about the cost of traveling around the world, but this is still a sort of trip that people on the backpacking spectrum can take. Specifically if you decide to string together affordable destinations like Southeast Asia, India, Eastern Europe, Andean South America and Central America.

For instance, if you’re seeking a cheap around the world itinerary, you might fly from Denver to Kuala Lumpur (via China, as Chinese airlines are the cheapest), then fly to Mumbai or Delhi for a month or two there. From there, head to Ukraine or Poland to begin a month or so backpacking Eastern Europe (I particularly like the Balkans ), before taking a flight (probably a multi-leg one) to Lima (where Peru and Bolivia await) or Cancun, from which can you head south to affordable Honduras, El Salvador and Nicaragua.

Five-Star Frolic

On the other end up to the spectrum for a world trip itinerary, travelers without a set budget can enjoy a round the world business class (or even first class) romp that pulls out all the stops. Rather than focusing on a set range of destinations, you can plan your trip based on luxurious hotels and experiences, be it a Tanzania safari from the opulent Four Seasons Serengeti , sampling award-winning in-flight products and services from airlines like Qatar Airways and Singapore Airlines or dining in foodie capitals like Tokyo and Paris.

If you’re planning a luxury round the world trip, it makes sense to enlist the help of a professional (me or someone else), since the price of such assistance (usually between $100-200 per week of travel) is minimal compared to the overall cost of such a RTW trip.

Other FAQ About RTW Travel

How many stops do you get on a round the world ticket.

Whether you’re planning a 6 month round the world trip or plan to stay on the road for years, I am a proponent of piecemeal booking of air travel, rather than committing yourself to a RTW ticket. Therefore, I consider the number of “stops” permitted on such a ticket to be superfluous.

How do I plan a trip around the world?

Unless you are a very experienced global traveler, I recommend against trying to plan a trip on your trip. Rather, work with a professional (such as Yours Truly) to arrange a travel the world for a year itinerary. Or for longer than a year, or shorter—you get the idea.

Are round the world tickets worth it?

No! As I’ve expressed many times during this round the world itinerary, I am not a fan of RTW plane tickets. They rarely cost less; booking and changing them requires a pedantic phone call—or rather phone calls, since you’ll have to call in every time you want to make a modification.

Round the World Trip Planning

The best round the world trips are the ones where you get out on the road and go where the wind takes you, but that’s not realistic for most people. Whether because of finite funds or a “real life” you need to get back to, round the world trips require more planning than you’d probably like, even if you’re generally an adventurous and spontaneous traveler.

“So,” you might be asking, “can you plan my round the world trip for me?” The answer is yes, though there are a couple caveats. Because of the length and breadth of most RTW trips, many travelers want a more skeletal version of my typical “Travel Coaching” itinerary, which is typical extremely detailed and includes day-by-day recommendations. As a result, my pricing for planning RTW itineraries differs from what I’ve published on my Travel Coaching page , so I’d advise emailing me directly with any inquiries.

The Bottom Line

No matter how extensive a round the world trip planner you’ve been seeking, I’m confident that mine has met your needs. For most travelers, it’s simply a matter of learning your RTW flight booking options, assessing the cost of your RTW trip and deciding upon destinations and routing. However, others might want to hire a world trip planner (or a least a skeleton of it, which puts in place a broad trajectory) on their behalf.

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Home » South America » Backpacking Travel Guide

Backpacking South America Travel Guide (TRAVEL TIPS • 2024)

So you are getting ready to travel South America, eh? Great call! 

Backpacking through South America is like learning to ride a bike without the training wheels. There is just the right amount of danger and curve balls to keep you alert, focused, and totally stoked on life.

With the exception of a handful of backpacker hotspots, South America is the wild west frontier of backpacking. This is the land of crazy parties, epic surfing, sprawling cities, and wild landscapes including the Andes and the Amazon jungle.

Above all else, South America is stunningly beautiful. Though challenging to navigate at times, it’s budget backpacker friendly, diverse, relatively safe, and one hell of a travel experience…

But South America is MASSIVE. Deciding where to go and how to plan travel to South America is a mind-boggling task. That’s where I come in, amigos. This South America travel guide will provide you with EVERYTHING you need to know to prepare for your trip through South America.

Here’s the full low-down on backpacking South America itinerary and routes, country profiles, tips and tricks for South America budget travel, and much more.

Lace up your bootstraps and prepare to have your travel inspiration skyrocket. We’re going on an adventure!

Why Go Backpacking in South America?

The South American continent is one of my favourite places on earth. It was always a place that mystified me: the traveller group was generally older and more mature. So when I got invited (by a sexy South American), I jumped at the chance.

It’s a place where I learned the art of budget travel , fell in love countless times, and had a multitude of life-changing experiences along the way. If you want to get off the beaten track whilst still having the option to meet plenty of other travellers, South America is the place to level up your backpacking skills and head on a real adventure…

South America is one of the most diverse continents on earth. It is home to the world’s second-highest mountain range in the Andes, world-class surf beaches, the Amazon Basin, the world’s driest desert, huge plains of lush grassland, glaciers, and unique wildlife not found anywhere else on Earth…

Each country you visit whilst backpacking South America offers up the opportunity to experience the incredible natural and cultural forces unique to that region.

Backpacking South America is generally a cheap endeavour – although it’s not as cheap as Southeast Asia or India. There are some fairly expensive corners of South America that you should avoid if you’re travelling on a budget .

You will fall in love with South America (and maybe a person or two along the way). So let’s dive into some South America travel itineraries and backpacking routes for your trip.

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking South America

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When making a South America backpacking itinerary, remember that travel distances are HUGE, internal flights expensive, and sometimes you want to stay somewhere longer than anticipated.

So choose your South America backpacking route carefully. Unlike other continents, how much time you have really matters; you simply can’t do all of it.

If you only have 2 or 3 weeks for travelling South America, forget about seeing the whole continent. I recommend sticking to one country and devoting your energy to exploring it properly. 

In one month, you could explore some countries closer to each other. You could visit Bolivia and Lake Titicaca in Peru for example. It’s good to have room for spontaneity in your South America travel itinerary too.

2 Week South America Travel Itinerary – The West Coast Appetizer

You’ll have to keep moving to make this itinerary happen in 2 weeks, but I believe in you!

Start your backpacking South America itinerary in Colombia by visiting Cartagena . After a few days, head to Santa Marta , the jump-off point for Minca – a charming mountain town – and Tayrona National Park.

Get a bit off the beaten path, and head east to Cabo de la Vela (where the desert meets the sea) and Punta Galinas , where you can feast on fresh seafood along the Caribbean coast. Doubling back to Cartagena , head to nearby Playa Blanca and Tolú (mangrove) before heading to Islas de San Bernardo (white-sanded islands).

Or you could start in Lima , Peru. Explore the city for a day or two before heading to the Nazca Lines , Arequipa , and Colca Canyon . 

Then head to Cusco in the Andes. Take a few days to get used to the altitude before setting off on a multi-day trek to Macchu Picchu.

Alternatively, start in Buenos Aires . Then you can head south to trek in Patagonia . In southern Argentina and Chile, you can do the world-famous Torres del Paine circuit . 2 weeks is cutting it fine but – if you hustle – you could pull it off.

In 2 weeks, you can get a good taste of Colombia, Ecuador , or Bolivia . Don’t miss out on the Salt Flats . 

1 Month South America Travel Itinerary – The Starter

With 1 month, you can make an epic backpacking South America itinerary. If you want to explore more than one country in South America, you’re gonna need more than 3 weeks. 

For surf bums, you could easily spend a month heading beach to beach from Southern Peru all the way to Colombia , in 1 month. Or you could do 2 weeks in Argentina followed by 2 weeks of hiking in Chilean Patagonia . 

If it were me, larger countries like Argentina, Chile , and Brazil are better to explore with more than 1 month. You can do it but you will spend a long time on bus journeys, so I would just stick to one area. 

Southeast Brazil is a good choice for 1 month on a South America itinerary: travel from Rio de Janeiro all the way south to Florianópolis and hit up everything in between. Bear in mind that you’ll probably want to stay in Rio AND Floripa longer than you expect.

Highlights of this route include exploring the megapolis of São Paulo , idyllic getaways of Ilha Grande and Paraty , eco-friendly and laidback Curitiba , and the crazy nightclubs of Balneário Camboriú .

Or, you could fly into Ecuador and spend 3 weeks exploring here: stay at a great hostel in Guayaquil before heading to Montañita . In Montañita you can party and surf to your heart’s content. Head North towards Bahia de Caraquez and Canoa for surf towns that are more off the beaten path. 

Next head to the mountains, stopping first in Quito . There are some excellent treks in the Ecuadorian Andes .

If you have time, definitely hit up the Volcano Loop trail on the outskirts of Cotopaxi National Park . A trip to the jungle around Puyo is recommended as well. Then head for a week of trekking in Colombia .

3 Month South America Travel Itinerary – The Great South America Main Course

3 months backpacking South America, eh? Hell yes!

I recommend flying into Lima, Peru unless you know you want to start in the north (Brazil or Colombia) or further south (Argentina or Chile). Explore Lima and the coast before heading to the Andes. There Machu Picchu awaits in all of its glory.

Definitely do a trek to the famous Inca city! (More on hiking in South America later). From here, you can either drop down on the other side of the Andes and explore the Amazon basin or you can head south to Bolivia and eventually Argentina and Patagonia .

Alternatively, you can slowly start making your way north via the Coast. You could spend a month (or more) in Ecuador, Colombia, or Brazil respectively.

Personally, I started off in Buenos Aires then went north to Brazil and Colombia . The distances were truly massive. I’m talking 30-hour bus rides (on comfortable buses I must say). 

Travelling in South America is never a quick affair, so plan your itinerary accordingly.

6 Month South America Travel Itinerary – The Full 3-Course Latin America

Life has brought you to the fortunate crossroads of having 6 months to travel South America? Good on you! 

With a 6-month backpacking South America itinerary, you have the luxury of really being able to take your damn time. To see multiple countries, it’s a practical choice to begin your journey either in the north or the south to avoid backtracking.

With a 6 month itinerary, you can explore many South American countries in depth. I’ll be honest with you, the itinerary shown on the map is really fucking ambitious. But hopefully, it gives you an idea of what crossing this vast continent would look like.

Starting your journey in Rio de Janerio or São Paulo might be a bit of a rough landing, though you will be a primed bad-ass by the time it comes to move on to another country. Other options are starting with some days in Buenos Aires , in Argentina, and Chile, in the south.

You could be surfing it up on the coast of Ecuador one day, and be in the mountains of Peru several days (and many bus rides) later. I advise taking a chunk of your time to really explore and get off the beaten path in top destinations like Brazil , Colombia , and Bolivia .

Having 6 months or more to go backpacking truly means you have a total blank slate to work with. So get ready to write your own beautiful backpacking destiny!

Each country in South America has something unique and profoundly exciting for backpackers. But they also have some common themes: they are Spanish speaking (minus Portuguese in Brazil), they have stunning natural beauty, and some of the nicest people you will meet whilst travelling. So finding the best places to backpack in South America has a lot to do with your own interests.

Maybe you’ll explore the epic snow-capped peaks of Patagonia in Argentina and Chile. Party with beautiful people at the Carnival in Brazil. 

Trek to the Lost City in Colombia. Experience the sun-drenched deserts of Bolivia and the colourful Rainbow Mountains of Peru.

Backpacking through South America truly is a life-changing journey through one of the planet’s most fascinating landmasses. When you visit South America, you can be sure that it will be some of the most fun you will have in your life.

South America is a vast continent on the move. The number of people travelling to South America is increasing every year. Whilst the cost of living in South America remains quite low, each country requires a different budget for travellers.

Once you begin to discover a few of the South American countries, you will be entranced by the jaw-dropping landscapes, fascinating history, vibrant culture, and awesome food.

Let’s take a look at the countries that make backpacking in South America so damn special.

Backpacking Brazil

Brazil is, hands down, one of South America’s most dynamic countries. It’s all about the extremes. Whether it’s the parties, the people, or nature, the vibrations run through everything – and connect everyone.

Backpacking in Brazil offers up sick surf beaches, fun-loving locals, insane parties, and landscapes that would make even the most seasoned traveller say “no shit, mate, look at that!”

Of course, the Brazilian festival Carnival is legendary – and for good reason. Get your mind blown on the Brazilian side of  Iguaçu Falls , visit the Amazon , drink a Caipirinha on the beach! Plus Brazil’s home to big up-and-coming cities like Belo Horizonte, Curitiba, and Natale.

And when I say ‘extreme’, I mean extreme : Brazil is absolutely MASSIVE and covers nearly half (47%) of South America’s landmass! That should give you an idea of how big it is.

But, more importantly, it gives you a better idea of how much diversity Brazil has on offer. In fact, there’s a lot going for Brazil that you may not be aware of.

For example, trekking probably isn’t the first thing that pops into your mind when you think about backpacking through Brazil. It’s a shame because Brazil has truly gorgeous trails spread throughout the country. It’s also home to Iguazu, one of the most incredible waterfalls on Earth.

The best hiking opportunities are usually found in Brazil’s national parks  (parques nacionais ). Brazil has over 70 national parks and – in terms of beauty – these can contend with any other on Earth.

What to Know Before Visiting Brazil

• Don’t miss out on… Florianopolis. The Brazilians favourite place to visit for a reason. It’s chilled, safe, and gorgeous. You plan to stay in Floripa for a week, it grabs you by the balls, and you get stuck for months.
• Keep an eye out for… Travel distances. Don’t be fooled: they’re way longer than they seem on the map. Give yourself plenty of time to get from A to B.
• The coolest hostel is… Hostel do Morro . In one of my favourite destinations in Brazil, this hostel is a true nature immersion. In the “mato”, with sea view and monkeys visiting. A true good vibes place!
• The best food is found in… Belo Horizonte. There is an amazing energy to this place; everyone hangs out on the streets, eating and drinking at plastic tables, all night long.

Backpacking Colombia

Whilst South America has many countries that I consider to have the full package , Colombia is the most complete. It’s a relatively small country. So considering the scale of epic surf, neverending parties, untouched jungle, happening cities, and towering mountains, Colombia is a reason for backpackers to keep travelling!

Cali, Cartagena, Bogotá , and Medellín are a few major cities in Colombia where you can really let loose. Go and have some extraordinary conversations with the locals about life in Latin America and not taking life too seriously.

Is Colombia safe ? Perhaps your mum would love to know. Hell yes, it is !

As much as Colombianos are ready for the disassociation with Pablo Escobar, it’s hard not to mention the impact that he made on the country and the South American continent as a whole. But his reign of terror is over.

Modern-day Colombia couldn’t be more different from the days when narco-traffickers ruled the country. Visiting Medellín now vs 20 years ago is a COMPLETELY different experience. The Medellín of today is a great experience.

Colombia is for adventure junkies and nature lovers too. The northern terminus of the Andes Mountains ends here and you can take your treks into the deep jungle in Colombia’s National Parks .

What to Know Before Visiting Colombia

• Don’t miss out on… Carnival in Barranquilla. Most of the time, this industrial town is overlooked by travellers. But for one week of the year, this place goes NUTS.
• Keep an eye out for… how difficult the trek to Cuidad Perdida is. It’s long, treacherous, and hot as shit, but absolutely worth the effort in the end. The Lost City is one of the best places to visit in South America.
• The coolest hostel is… Viajero Santa Marta Hostel . Great location and has lazy and peaceful vibes. Amazing rooftop and activities to connect and meet other travelers.
• The best food is found in… the local restaurants. Look for the menu del dia to feel like you’ll never need to eat again.

Backpacking Ecuador

Ecuador might be small but it certainly packs a punch. I spent 3 months backpacking in Ecuador and could easily spend many more.

The diversity is incredible and it’s a great place to experience Andean Highland culture. The people who live in the Andes have a distinct and ancient culture rooted in mountain life. They even speak another language called Quechua . It’s a relatively safe country , and isn’t ruined by mass tourism.

In addition to staying in colonial cities like Quito , Ecuador’s natural landscape is the biggest draw. You can spend weeks or months exploring the coast before heading to the mountains and vice versa. Towering over the shore, volcanoes, waterfalls, and massive snow-capped mountains all make incredible trekking routes.

Surfing reigns supreme on the Ecuadorian coast. It attracts surfers from all over the globe. Even if you’re a beginner, it’s a great place to catch your first waves. Towns like  Montañita and Canoa are famous surf beaches and party hotspots.

If you have some extra cash in your budget, you can visit The Galápagos Islands . But be warned – this is not a cheap endeavour, especially for excursions like diving (though it is AWESOME). So prepare yourself to shell out some cash!

Then there is the Amazon Basin of Ecuador. The Amazon region is what helps make Ecuador one of the most biologically diverse places on earth. The Amazon is best explored by boat with a local guide and is bound to be the adventure of a lifetime!

What to Know Before Visiting Ecuador

• Don’t miss out on… exploring the highlands and Cotopaxi National Park. Easily accessed from Quito and totally epic.
• You know what’s overrated … Montañita. It’s not all it use to be and is mostly catered to foreigners who want to get wasted and high. If you want real Ecuadorian culture, there are better places nearby.
• The coolest hostel is… Casa del Sol . Relaxed vibe at a few steps from the beach. Close enough to go party and far enough to have a good sleep. THE place for yoga and Surf.
• The best food is found in… the small almuerzo (lunch) cafes found across the country.

Backpacking Peru

Ah Peru. Backpacking Peru is the essence of travelling in South America. Though tourism has spiked in Peru in recent years, there is still plenty of magic to be found here.

The cost of backpacking Peru is a little higher than you might expect. Expect to pay between $30-40 USD a day whilst travelling here. (But more about the cost of backpacking South America later.)

Peru has a super long coastline dotted with prime surf beaches and scuba diving sites. In the Andes lies a whole other form of beauty.

I mean, who isn’t aware of Machu Picchu and hiking the Inca Trail ? Besides the obvious, there is much, much more to the Peruvian Andes than Machu Picchu. Although, you still have to go there!

Peru has some truly fascinating colonial cities as well, including Cuenca and Cuzco, which is the gateway city to Machu Picchu. The off-the-beaten-path potential in Peru is enormous.

Check out the Rainbow Mountains to see nature at its most colourful. Hike the majestic  Cordillera Huayhuash . Explore Colca Canyon and sleep out under a billion stars.

If you want a truly magical experience, there are many eco-lodges in Peru that are nestled in the best nature spots, from the Amazon jungle to the Andes mountain range.

Wherever you decide to travel in Peru, be sure that it will be a highlight of your South America backpacking adventure.

What to Know Before Visiting Peru

• Don’t miss out on… a motorcycle journey through the Sacred Valley outside Cuzco. It’s definitely worth staying in Cuzco a little longer for this.
• You know what’s overrated… the Inca Trail. Go for the less-trod Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu instead.
• The coolest hostel is… Banana’s Adventure Hostel . In an unreal location (an oasis in a desert) this is a sociable and relaxed vibes hostel. With a great rooftop plus a lovely garden with hammocks, and an outdoor pool.
• The best food is found in… Lima. This city is full of cafes, local lunch spots, and street food vendors. The best are in Barranco and Miraflores. Pig out on ceviche !

Backpacking Bolivia

Backpacking in Bolivia offers up a glimpse of what South America was like 30 years ago. It’s a country looking to the future in many ways whilst still having one foot firmly rooted in the tradition of the past.

Expect super friendly locals, dramatic desert and mountain landscapes, and the kind of low prices which make the dirtbag within us very happy. You could easily get by on $20-25 a day here, and even less by roughing it a bit.

Bolivia is home to plenty of adrenaline-pumping activities including the Road of Death , which, in essence, is a road down through the mountains in which people ride bicycles to the bottom at top speed. The ride goes on for at least 30 kilometres and it is straight down. Can you guess why it’s called the Road of Death yet?

Aside from the high-risk adventure activities, Bolivia is safe for the most part as well.

World-class trekking is abundant in the Bolivian Andes. If you love to hike, all the more reason to visit Bolivia. Bring along a good sleeping bag as temperatures can plummet at night.

La Paz has the best hostels (particularly for partiers) and is a cool city to base yourself in. Lake Titicaca is breathtaking, however, it has become far too touristy – I personally can’t deal with that many people taking selfies. I don’t blame the locals as they need to make a living. Just the way it has been done is unfortunate.

The Salt Flats are also cool AF. Okay, admittedly it’s pretty touristy too, but it’s still worth a visit.

What to Know Before Visiting Bolivia

• Don’t miss out on… the Salar de Uyuni. Yes, everyone who comes to Bolivia does this and, yes, it’s touristy. Regardless, it’s still in-fuckin-credible.
• Keep an eye out for… the altitude. Some people fly directly to La Paz from sea level and get sick almost immediately. At 3640 meters, La Paz is the highest major city in the world.
• The coolest hostel is… Wild Rover La Paz . A dynamic and festive hostel. The perfect place to start your Bolivian experience connecting with other travellers. Great location in the central area.
• The best food is found in… La Paz. This is the epicenter of Bolivia’s newly emerging food culture.

Backpacking Chile

There are no half measures while Backpacking Chile. From trekking through gorgeous glacial national parks to exploring the martian bone-dry Atacama desert , you’re all in for one hell of an experience.

There are 36 National Parks in Chile ; all of them are beautiful and unique in their own way. Chile is also home to Easter Island , one of the most mysterious places on the planet.

Like Argentina, Chilean Patagonia is a paradise for trekkers and adventure types – though it does take some effort to reach the places you want to go trekking in. That said, the journey is well worth it; experiencing some of the planets last truly wild places is an indescribable feeling that you can only understand by doing it!

Most backpackers will start their backpacking journey in Santiago. But you can come to Chile from one of its borders in the South (as I did).

Oh yeah, one more thing: Chilean wine is cheap and it is damn good! Do you need more reasons?

What to Know Before Visiting Chile

• Don’t miss out on… Patagonia, and not just the usual spots. Chilean Patagonia is vastly unexplored, especially the fjords. Look out for whales, dolphins, penguins, and elephant seals.
• Keep an eye out for… fire bans in Torres del Paine. A lot of nature has been threatened because of dickhead backpackers using gas burners, despite warnings.
• The coolest hostel is… MaPatagonia Hostel . Near a beautiful lake, this place has what you need. Kitchen facilities, a nice big garden, some cats, and a jacuzzi! There is also a fireplace for those cold nights.
• The best food is found in… Santiago. Staying in Santiago will unlock the most culinary options, including the cheap street food stalls.

Backpacking Argentina

Viva Argentina!

Backpacking Argentina is one for the ages. Welcome to the land of wine, excessive meat, football, tango, incredibly passionate people, and the final frontier – Patagonia.

Argentina is an immense country with very distinct regions. Eat to your heart’s content, party harder than you ever have before, and fall deeply in love.

You’ll probably land in Buenos Aires , arguably the cultural capital of all of South America.

Unquestionably, you’re going to find incredible hostels in Buenos Aires and reasons to stay. But don’t stay too long!

Rosario and Cordoba are cities like Buenos Aires but, in my opinion, better. They’re a perfect place to head to if you want to steer clear of the heavily populated capital.  Mendoza is the wine region home to the “ best wine in the world ” (according to Argentinos).

Further south lies Patagonia : one of my favourite places on Earth, and home to many Argentinian National Parks . Patagonia is a truly expansive, desolate wilderness area where the weather is harsh and civilization is few and far between.

Trek mountains and glaciers, or sea kayak around them,. There, you could go days without seeing many (if any) backpackers! Now THAT’S the dream.

Staying at an Argentine mountain hut (refugio) is a wonderful experience not to be missed. Few who travel to Argentina manage to make it as far as  Tierra del Fuego (the Land of Fire). Visit one of the most dramatic places in Argentina with its long summer days and epic arctic landscapes.

Speaking of the arctic, you can arrange trips to Antarctica from Ushuaia ! This would be the adventure of a lifetime but it’s by no means cheap.

What to Know Before Visiting Argentina

• Don’t miss out on… El Chaltén, which is the base for seeing some of the most dramatic peaks on Earth: Cerro Torre and Fitz Roy.
• You know what’s overrated… La Boca in Buenos Aires. These much-hyped multi-coloured houses are pretty rundown and actually quite dangerous, I strongly suggest you avoid it. The whole area feels like a tourist trap. There are much better things to do in Buenos Aires .
• The coolest hostel is… America del Sur Hostel (El Calafate). Cozy, super social, and with an insane view of the lake, the town, and beautiful sunsets. Great place to chill, and work (if you need to).
• The best food is found in… your neighbour’s personal asado . Nothing beats grilling grade-A Argentinian beef with some locals.
• The official exchange rate is NOT THE EXCHANGE RATE . Because of the fluctating exchange rate, many of the locals withdraw their cash by using what is referred to as a “blue dollar rate” from Western Union. This way gives you 50% more pesos than withdrawing pesos from an ATM or exchanging currency.

Backpacking Uruguay

Not many travellers end up backpacking in Uruguay. There are a few reasons why:

• It’s small
• It’s out of the way
• There’s not a ton to do

All of the above are true to some extent: Uruguay is not overflowing with adventurous activities or jaw-dropping sights. But let me tell you, they have some of the best quality of living in South America.

One of the perks about Uruguay is you don’t HAVE to do anything here. People are friendly and, compared to some chaos you find in other areas of the continent, it’s pretty chill. The beautiful coast is the perfect place to get away from the usual backpacking South America route and to avoid traveller’s burnout .

Outside of Montevideo , there are nice beach towns worth crashing at; Punta del Diablo is the quintessential lazy surfer town. Punta del Este is fun in the summer if you like partying. Colonia del Sacramento is an old colonial outpost and UNESCO heritage – although it is admittedly more of a day trip rather than a base.

Oh but here’s the kicker: weed is legalised. Yes, Uruguay is famous for allowing the smoking of the devil’s lettuce. And the quality of it is surprisingly good.

Lots of locals keep a weed garden on their balconies. Perhaps your hostel in Montevideo will have one?

Head to Uruguay if you want to chill out and do your own thing. It’s easy to travel to Brazil and Argentina from there too.

What to Know Before Visiting Uruguay

• Don’t miss out on… Punta del Diablo. This is laid-back surfer town evades most backpackers. It is arguably one of the best beach towns in South America.
• You know what’s overrated… Punta del Este. This place literally exists for the sake of Argentinians on holiday. In the off-season, it’s empty.
• The coolest hostel is… La Brújula Hostel . It’s near the beach, eco-friendly, has a family vibe, and is great to meet new people. This is a gem next to the sea.
• The best food is found in… Montevideo. Can’t beat a giant chivito after you’ve got the munchies!

Backpacking Venezuela

Venezuela is a truly incredible country. With towering mountains, steaming forests, endless beaches , and just enough danger to keep you on your toes, this country is every budding adventurer’s dream destination.

A Disclaimer on Visiting Venezuela

Unfortunately, due to the political situation in Venezuela , The Broke Backpacker absolutely  does not condone visiting the country right now . It is simply not safe and it would be irresponsible to even attempt to Venezuela at present.

Unless you somehow have absolutely  solid and trustworthy contacts on the ground , Venezuela is not the place to travel for the foreseeable future. We do not have any contacts to give out.

That being said, there are many team members at The Broke Backpacker that hold a special place for Venezuela in their hearts. For this reason, we are leaving this information available to you, our readers, as an homage to a country we love. We can’t wait for the day that it will be safe to visit again.

Backpacking Venezuela has a truly terrible reputation. Don’t get me wrong, travelling Venezuela has been dangerous in recent years: this is a country where you need to keep both eyes on your gear, watch who you’re with, and be on the lookout for iffy situations before they get the chance to rear their ugly head.

Backpacking in Venezuela is, in my opinion, one of the last great adventures out there. Plus it’s one of the cheapest countries in the world to backpack in.

Venezuela is a mysterious country. It attracts adventurers looking for a raw adventure.

It’s a country yet to be polluted by heavy tourism with incredible landscapes of mountains, forests, lakes, and caves. It is a kind of Shangri-La for adventurers and extreme sports lovers.

A South American backpacking trip to Venezuela is getting into the wild. To feel like the old explorers, Venezuela will not disappoint you. But backpacking Venezuela is not for the faint-hearted: this is a veteran explorer country.

What to Know Before Visiting Venezuela

• Don’t miss out on… Mt. Roraima – the highest tabletop mountain in the world; an incredible place to explore. Sometimes you feel like you’re walking on an island in the sky.
• Keep an eye out for… the seasons when visiting Angel Falls. When it’s dry, the falls are actually quite weak (it’s more like a trickle).
• The coolest hostel is… El Sofá Caracas . Safe, quiet, cozy place in the big city. You’ll feel at home instantly. And they have a unique boat pool to chill when it gets too hot.
• The best food is found in… the buffet places where you pay by the weight of your plate. A little goes a long way here and you won’t be disappointed!

Getting Off the Beaten Path in South America

South America is totally full of wild places, tiny villages, far-flung settlements, lonesome valleys, sparsely inhabited jungle… Point being, there are plenty of great places to get off the beaten path . With a little motivation, you may well find yourself cutting your own path and writing your own backpacking destiny, one adventure at a time.

Explore the national park systems of South America as much as you can. Investigate the little interesting-looking food stalls where all the locals are queuing up.

Don’t rely on a guidebook of popular places. In South America, those tiny towns in the middle of nowhere are where the real culture is, and the real adventures. All you need is a bus ticket…

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

You can make your South America backpacking route totally unique. No matter what things you get up to, they’re going to leave a big print on your heart. But here are some things I definitely recommend considering planning for your itinerary .

1. Explore Patagonia

Patagonia is still one of the last untouched wildernesses on the planet. Not everyone gets to experience this in their lifetime! In addition to the usual superlative locations, like Cerro Torre and Torres del Paine, there are heaps to discover off-trail.

2. Party hard at Carnival

It’s the biggest party on the planet! Grab yo’ body paint, yo’ finest feathers, whatever else you can get your hands on, and join the festivities!

You won’t ever forget the time you spent Carnival in South America. The carnivals in Bahia, Rio, and Barranquilla are particularly good.

3. Explore the Salts Flats of Uyuni

It’s one of the most unique places on the planet and a highlight of any South America backpacking trip. Get ready to be wowed by this alien landscape.

I know broke backpackers usually cringe hard at the idea of an organised tour (because I’m one of them) but the Salt Flats is one that’s really worth shelling out for.

4. Find your own secret beaches

It wouldn’t be a proper backpacking South America itinerary without some beach time! Every kind of beach imaginable is found on the continent.

From tropical slices in Brazil to surfer’s paradises in Ecuador to even fjords in Chile, you won’t be lacking in choices. There are plenty of them secret spots that make those magical days. Take a beer, bring your mates, get busy.

5. Check out Medellín

Medellín is one of the most popular cities to visit in South America right now. The choice between Medellín or Bogota has never been easier.

It’s fun, safe, comfortable, and (most impressively) completely different than it was before. Medellín has shed its violent past and is ready to host the next wave of backpackers.

6. Visit Machu Picchu

I mean, you’re reading a backpacking South America guide: I know you already know about this one. It is the place that attracts most people to visit South America… but I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t worth visiting.

You can hike the Inca Trail like everyone else. But if you want to visit Machu Picchu in an alternative way, try one of the other Inca trails like Salkantay Trek.

7. Hike in the Andes

The Andes are one of the greatest mountain chains in the world, known mostly for hosting the aforementioned Machu Picchu and the gargantuan Aconcagua. But there is more to these mountains than just these popular destinations: the highlands of Ecuador, Cordillera Huayhush in Peru, the Cordillera Real in Bolivia are all stunning. Even Colombia gets a slice of the pie at Cocuy National Park.

8. A South American

Hey, most backpackers will vouch for love and sex on the road being something memorable to take part in…

They love, and they love passionately. And the sex… well, maybe you’ll find out.

9. Get “stuck” somewhere

South America is full of sticky places AKA places where you get stuck for months on end. Florianópolis, La Paz, Medellín, Mancora… All of these locations start off as a simple stop on your South America backpacking route but turn into temporary homes.

Don’t fight it! Find your sticky place and stay awhile.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

South America has a wide range of budget accommodation options for backpackers. Airbnbs are fantastic for private rooms if you’re travelling as a couple or as a group.

For solo travellers, when you are not passing the night from the comfort of your tent in the Andes or with a Couchsurfing host , you’ll likely be booking hostels.

Whether you just need a place to lay your head or a spot to meet fellow backpackers like yourself, hostel life is clearly where it’s at… In fact, I love South American hostels, even travelling with my partner, you get perks in a hostel that you don’t get in a hotel or Airbnb.

I’ve had some of the best nights of my life in them and met some of the best people in my life. The South American countries are home to some of the best hostels in the world .

• Best Hostels in Sao Paulo
• Best Hostels in Cusco
• Best Hostels in Cartagena
• Best Hostels in Mendoza
• Best Hostels in Lima
• Best Hostels in Medellin
• Best Hostels in Quito
• Best Hostels in Salvador de Bahia
• Best Hostels in Santiago
• Best Hostels in Valparaiso

Insider tip: If you want to see all your hostel options to visitbackp South America, Booking.com is the perfect one-stop-shop to book hostels. You can even filter your personal travel needs to find the perfect place for you.

It is the common belief that backpacking in South America is dirt cheap. In some places this is true, but it doesn’t go for the entire continent.

But fear not! Travelling South America on a budget can definitely be done.

Due to the nature of Patagonia being one of the most remote areas on earth, expect higher travel costs than the rest of South America. Peru also takes some navigating in order to travel on a tight budget.

Brazil is one of the most expensive countries in South America. The cost of living in Brazil is higher and it is notorious for jacking up accommodation prices during the high season.

With a few travel tips up your sleeve, you will save a ton of money and have the time of your life. Bring your  haggle game  whilst backpacking through Latin America to ensure you get the best possible price for things, including accommodation. South Americans love smooth talkers so keep it playful but don’t get too cheeky.

Taking long-distance buses, buying beer and drugs, paying entrance fees to national parks… these things add up fast. But sometimes you have to shell out the dough in order to do the things you want. Overnight buses are a good way to save some money.

Remember to always leave a little extra wiggle room in your budget so you can go scuba diving or go on a trek that you have been dreaming about!

Daily Budgets for South America

Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to pay on a daily basis on a backpacking South America trip…

Travel Tips for Broke Backpackers in South America

Hey, all those dollaridoodles add up to more fun times. So saving whatever you can on your journey means you can be on the journey… for longer. So here are a few budget travel tips for South America :

• Camp : With plenty of untouched beaches, forests, stunning countryside, and far-flung jungle, South America is a great place to carry a good backpacking tent . Camping saves you money and can help you get off of the beaten path.
• Cook your own food: Travel with a  portable backpacking stove  and cook your own food to save some serious cash whilst backpacking across South America. If you plan to do some overnight hiking trips or camping on the beach, having a backpacking stove will be a great asset.
• Haggle:  Haggle as much as you can. You can always get a better price for things, especially while in local markets. Learning Spanish will go a long way!
• Couchsurf:  South Americans are awesome. Get to know some! Check out Couchsurfing to make some real friendships and see the real continent. When using Couchsurfing, be sure to send personalized messages to your potential host. A generic copy-and-paste message is much more likely to get turned down. Make yourself stand out.
• Hitchhike:  Although some countries are friendlier than others, hitchhiking across South America is common practice, so you won’t struggle too much to find a ride. Speaking at least a little Spanish will go a long way though. You want to explain exactly what you’re doing and where you want to go.

Why Should You Travel to South America with a Water Bottle?

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine places… So do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful!

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but together we CAN make a difference. I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

You know by now that we are talking about an enormous amount of land with regards to the South American continent. Countries in South America near the Equator do not experience distinct seasons. As you start to head south you will find the seasons to be the opposite of what they are in the Northern Hemisphere i.e. winter in June.

Patagonia experiences bitterly cold and windy winters. I do not advise travelling there during the winter unless you are a serious mountaineer and have all the right gear.

Dry season depends on the country. Generally, the cooler months from June to September are the driest in the coastal areas. In the Amazon – given that it is the world’s biggest rainforest – is wet pretty much all year. The Andes are the driest from April – November.

High season for all countries is, without a doubt, from December – February. This is due to holidays occurring over that time and it is also the time when many gringos and locals alike take their holidays. Backpacking in the low or shoulder seasons will definitely make for a cheaper trip, especially with regards to accommodation.

Best Time to Visit – Country Breakdown

Here are the best times to visit South America broken down by country!

Best Months to Travel: September – April

What’s the climate in Brazil like? 

In the south, the hot, wet summer season runs from November – March. In the north, the rainy season is from April – August. In the Amazon, it rains pretty much all year.

If you want to visit during the festival season though, September-March is best.

Best Months to Travel: November – March

What’s the climate in Colombia like?

Generally speaking, travellers should visit Cartagena and the Caribbean coast between November and March when the weather is dry. The rest of the country is good year-round. Bogota, Cali, and Medellin are always pleasant weather-wise.

Best Months to Travel: March – May, September – November

What’s the climate in Ecuador and Peru like? 

Lots and lots of micro-climates in the Ecuador Peru region. But there are some general trends:

• The highlands/Andes are dry from May – September. These are the best months for hiking and visiting Machu Picchu.
• The coast is warm and dry from December – May. This is the best time for the Galápagos.
• The Amazon is always wet and humid as shit.
• The south of Peru is much drier than the north, and Ecuador for that matter.

You’ll need to plan your trip carefully around what you want to see and do.

Best Months to Travel: May – October

What’s the climate in Bolivia like?

The winter season (May – October) is also its dry season, and the best time to visit Bolivia. This means that nights can be very cold, especially when you’re at higher altitudes. Although Bolivia is generally drier than its neighbours, it stills gets dumped on in the wet, summer season.

Best Months to Travel: March – April, October – November

What’s the climate in Chile like? 

Summers in Chile are generally the high season. That being said, this may not be the best time to visit. Prices are at their highest, the Atacama Desert is a furnace, and the winds are VERY strong in Patagonia.

Like almost anywhere, the shoulder months (October – November & March – April) are better.

Best Months to Travel:  October – April.

What’s the climate in Argentina and Uruguay like?

Summer for most of the country is from December – February. In the north, the summers can see rain and temperatures that soar to almost unbearable. In the south and Patagonia, summers are dry(ish) and pleasant.

The winters, obviously, are extremely cold in the south. Whereas the north generally has pretty mild winters.

What to Pack for South America

Travelling through South America is a lot easier if you have the right gear. A thorough backpacking South America packing list goes a long way – literally.

On every adventure, there are 6 things I never go travelling without:

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

South America IS a safe place to go backpacking. Is backpacking in South America safe all the time? 

Hell no. But nowhere in the world is safe 100% of the time. Does that mean we let it stop us?

Hell no. 

In recent years, security in South America is increasing. Using the common sense safety rules of backpacking is usually enough here. 

The thing with South America is understanding your surroundings and self-awareness. Coordinating your safety in Rio de Janeiro is completely different than hiking the Inca Trail. 

Robberies are rare and could happen to anyone – in any country. Sometimes people in desperate circumstances are forced to do bad things. They see a foreigner and they see a chance to temporarily relieve the stress of their situation. 

Odds are, you should be just fine. If ever you run into a hold-up situation just give them what they want. 

Your iPhone and wallet aren’t worth dying over, ever! But it’s worth hiding your money well just in case .

Political wobbles are pretty common. Due to the political situation in Venezuela right now, this is probably the most dangerous country in Latin America. I hate to say it but the situation is what it is.

In general, being out late, drunk, and/or alone is a recipe for trouble. Always take a taxi home at night, even in a group.

Do know which neighbourhoods you should avoid too, especially in major cities – even during the daytime. Ask the locals which these are. There’s no real reason to head into these areas anyway, but it’s worth noting so you don’t stumble into the wrong places.

• Is Peru Safe?
• Is Argentina Safe?
• Is Chile Safe?
• Is Brazil Safe?

Sex, Drugs, and Rock n’ Roll in South America

South Americans love to party! They start the party late and they don’t stop until the sun is way up.

Of course, Brazil is very famous for Carnival AKA the biggest party on the planet . But it’s a big deal in most South American countries – so you’ll find great parties everywhere.

The backpacker circuit is notoriously rowdy. Traveller hubs like Cusco, Buenos Aires, Montañita, Mancora, La Paz, and Medellín are legendary for their nightlife.

It is very easy to meet people, stay up all night, and fall in love with a sexy South American. Much of the continent is LGBTQ+ traveller friendly too!

Alcohol is freely available, freely consumed, and good quality too. I’m telling you, I’ve had beer in South America which puts Germany to shame.

South America is stoner-friendly too! Weed is legal or decriminalized for recreational use in many places – some countries are more relaxed than others. It’s best to ask the locals how it’s currently being handled where you are.

Cocaine is just about everywhere; particularly in Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia. But be aware, this isn’t the stuff you find back home – it’s much purer. One line is enough to keep you up all night.

To find drugs on the road, just ask a local to help you. Don’t go out alone looking to score in strange places and don’t give cops a reason to shake you down.

Ayahuasca retreats are gaining popularity as well. But remember, it is a ceremonial spiritual medicine of indigenous people. If you do want to try it, make sure you’re doing it with a real shaman, for real reasons; it’s not like acid and not a drug just to get mindless with.

Staying Healthy in South America

Travellers should be properly vaccinated before backpacking in South America. Consult a medical professional before travelling about which shots you should get.

You should have all the usual travel vaccinations before heading out: hepatitis A & B, typhoid, tetanus, etc. Rabies is also recommended particularly if you’re going to the rural areas or parts of the jungle. You don’t want to mess around with that one because it can be really nasty.

It is worth checking if you need the Yellow fever vaccine before entering some countries. In some places, it is only recommended.

It’s also worth noting that in most places in South America, the water isn’t fit for consumption. The best travel water bottles have a filter.

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting South America

Travelling without insurance in South America is risky. I broke my back in Brazil and will be happy to tell you why GOOD travel insurance is so important.

So consider getting travel insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure. You don’t want to be struck with a big, unexpected bill, or, worse, to put your health at risk.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Where you will start your trip will be determined by what backpacking route you have chosen. Obviously, if you plan to tackle a specific country, the capital city of that country is a popular starting point and – usually – the logical option.

South America is not the cheapest country to fly to, but you can sometimes bag a cheap direct flight from another major airport. It’s pretty expensive to fly within it too. Unless you are coming by boat to Colombia via the San Blas Islands, you will certainly be arriving by plane.

São Paulo, Lima, Buenos Aires, Santiago, and Rio de Janeiro are all major hubs for South America. Compare the prices between these top destinations, and base your South America itinerary from there.

Entry Requirements for South America

Good news everyone! Most South American nations DO NOT require a visa to visit! This applies to those travelling from the USA, UK, EU, Australia, and most other Western nations.

This is a positive trend in the last few years. A few years ago, travellers sometimes had to apply for (expensive) visas to enter countries like Argentina and Brazil. Luckily, this is no longer the case .

Once you’ve entered the country, you can remain for a period of 90 days visa-free. Extensions are possible but these vary on a country-by-country basis. Most South American governments do not take kindly to people who overstay.

Of course, ALWAYS double-check visa policies before travelling .

City Bus. Local Bus. Long-distance bus. Overnight bus.

That’s right. Buses are the most economical way of getting around South America. Every major capital has buses going to the far reaches of the country.

Local buses are typically super cheap. You can book online but the bus stations are organised really well too.

Taxis are an option within cities and sometimes Uber too, depending on the city. If you opt for a taxi ride, make sure they are legit, set the price beforehand, and haggle the shit out of the driver without being rude.

Flights between countries in South America can be expensive. Internal flights within the country aren’t the cheapest either, though they are cheaper if you buy them while you’re inside the country (you’ll save money on taxes).

As a general rule when backpacking, cheap travel is slow travel . Buses can be slow but as you will be taking many if you are backpacking South America long term, you want to go for the cheapest option.

If you want to go full Che Guevara style you can travel by motorbike pretty easily (and cheaply) in most places in South America. I recommend that you have some experience riding motorbikes before you even think about sauntering into a capital city or down a winding road in the Andes. If you do go the motorcycle route you can be sure that it will be the ride of your life.

Hitchhiking in South America

Travelling by hitchhiking is always an option. Your success will greatly depend on the area and the country; I wouldn’t recommend hitchhiking in a major city or at night.

Hitchhikers aren’t that common in countries like Colombia, mainly due to paranoia about the security situation in the country. Not everyone here is a drug lord that wants to kidnap you for ransom money. You can hitchhike throughout Colombia AND it’s such an awesome experience!

Rural areas of South America are especially impacted by high rates of poverty. Expecting free rides from folks with limited means isn’t morally fantastic. That said, even if you offer the driver a few bucks, it could very well end up being cheaper (and more rewarding) than taking the bus.

I would never assume that the ride is free initially. Always ask to avoid having an awkward scenario in which the driver who picked you up is demanding an unexpected fee. This is when learning Spanish comes in very handy.

Onwards Travel From South America

Your only options for leaving the continent are by boat or by plane. Most likely you will fly out of the country where you are finishing your trip if it makes sense and is the cheapest option. Try to book your flights in advance in order to find the best flight deals .

It is technically possible to cross the Darien Gap to Panama overland. Rumour has it that you can hire a guide for quite a bit of money and cross the Darien on foot.

In the past, this was impossible though due to narco-terrorist/guerrilla activity. May the Gods of Backpacking be with you if you attempt the journey on your own without a guide.

South America is becoming a digital nomad hub. After the pandemic, the boom really: a generally low cost of living, relatively reliable internet, and tons of expat communities.

Medellín is the current front-runner. This city is growing at a RAPID pace and is becoming the apple in every backpacker’s eye.

Plus, Medellín is safer than ever. Lots of people want to stay here for an extended period of time, digital nomads included.

Close behind are larger South American cities like Buenos Aires, São Paulo, and Quito. Being big cities though, you’ll have to overcome higher prices and crime. Safety in Buenos Aires can be sketchy but so can every massive city, right?

Note that, at the moment, most South American countries do not offer a special digital nomad visa.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Teaching English in South America

Most people who end up living or staying long-term in South America do one of two things: teach English or volunteer.

Teaching English in South America is very popular. Some people make a living out of just going from one city to the next city and hitting up all the English schools in between. Some are accredited though many find success using their own merits.

If you have a TEFL certificate it will be much easier to score teaching gigs in South America. I recommend getting yours with MyTEFL – Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount on TEFL courses when you enter the code PACK50  at the checkout.

Volunteering in South America

Volunteering abroad is a great way to experience a culture whilst doing some good. There are loads of volunteering gigs in South America ranging from protecting the Amazon to teaching in barrios of Buenos Aires.

Arguably, you may need a permit in order to volunteer. But in reality, the continent is pretty chill and this is unlikely to ever be enforced.

I spent a few weeks volunteering in the mountains in Northern Colombia and it was the best way to get to know the land, people, and lifestyle. Finding volunteering opportunities in South America is about learning, building community, and making an impact in a place you visit.

The best way to find volunteer jobs is word of a trustworthy mouth. But programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers , Workaway , and WWOOF help you get your foot in the door of volunteer communities.

They’re a great opportunity for unique experiences and make amazing connections with people. But you do have to stay vigilant, especially when working with animals or children.

If you sign up for Worldpackers with a discount code, memberships are only $39 a year. For that price, it’s often worth giving it a try.

Summing up food in South America is like trying to explain what music is. It’s incredibly diverse and every country, every region, every household has a different definition.

First of all, meat is hard to avoid. They like it juicy, tender, slow-cooked, and accompanying pretty much everything. Especially in the southern part of the continent, Argentina, Uruguay, and South Brazil, the smell of cooking cow is heavy in the air.

The Argentinian way of grilling is Asado . And it’s not just a delicious barbecue – oh no – that’s just the centrepiece. The event is a huge part of the culture.

The vegetarian movement is gaining momentum, though it’s harder in some places than others. In more rural places, you may go hungry if you don’t want to eat meat now and again, but in general, it’s not impossible.

Andean countries like Peru and Bolivia have chronically underrated food scenes. In fact, Peruvian food is often regarded as some of the best in the world. You’ve never felt fresher than after chowing down that ceviche.

In the Amazon, they have a whole different gastronomic world; obviously, everything grows here. There are ingredients that come from the Amazon that just don’t exist anywhere else.

There are strange fruit and vegetables in abundance. Then, of course, the fresh fish comes leaping out of the river, almost directly to your plate. Catching your own fish is never a bad idea either.

The food in the north of South America, like Colombia and Venezuela, is the definition of comfort food. If you’re eating right, you’re going to be gaining a few kilos. Don’t pass on an opportunity to gorge yourself silly.

Street food usually involves lots of deep-fried goodness. But it’s the abuelas that make the best pastries, with oodles of love. And ooh, those arepas… they have a special place on my plate.

The Best Food in South America

Here are some of the best South American foods that you definitely shouldn’t miss out on.

• Feijão (Brazil) – Beany stew for everyday eating.
• Acai (Brazil) – Superfood berry.
• Empanadas – Your trusty stuffed pastry friend.
• Dulce de leche – Just try it… thank me later.
• Asado (Argentina) – Grilled meat with a side of meat.
• Antichucho (Bolivia) – Mmmm… cow’s heart.
• Ceviche (Peru/Chile) – raw but not raw fish, in lemon juice.
• Cuy (Peru) – A large cooked guinea pig.
• Encebollado (Ecuador) – Ecuadorian Grandma’s comfort stew.
• Arepas (Colombia) – Corn pockets to fill your hungry belly.

South America is a very complex continent. Colonization by Western Europeans technically makes it the youngest member of modern civilization. But saying this disregards all the history that came before the “ conquistadors” arrived.

South America has hosted many advanced civilizations like the Incan Empire, whose influence still lasts to this day. Though much of the native culture was lost with the mass killing by said conquistadors .

Long story short: South America is an enormously diverse region, maybe more so than anywhere else. Yes, European culture has largely shaped the entire continent. But indigenous and African cultures are just as important, if not more so.

Northern Brazil is very Afrocentric. This was the first charted part of the continent and ideal for rowing sugarcane. Consequently, it’s the place where all the slaves were brought.

Slavery is over. But it leaves behind a blend of African customs and cultures morphed into Latino culture.

The south, which constitutes Argentina, Chile, and Southern Brazil, is much more European. Aside from the big players – the Spanish and Portuguese – Italians, Germans, and French all settled here following a huge era of migration.

In the Andean countries of Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador you see a lot of indigenous cultures. Some people still live like their ancestors, living in the highlands and tending the land. Though Spanish is still the dominant language, several local languages, like Quecha and Aymara, are still commonly spoken.

Don’t make the mistake of thinking that all of South America is just an extension of Europe or North America. You’ll miss out on the beautiful subtleties of the region, which make backpacking in South America so wonderful.

A backpacking trip in South America is a unique experience in itself. And within that, there are instance amounts of opportunities to make your South America itinerary different to anyone else who’s travelled here before. Here are some of the best things to add to it:

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Hiking in South America

South America has some of the best hikes in the world . Here are a few iconic options to get your bucket list started:

• Lost City Hike, Colombia : This hike through the Colombian jungle will certainly be a highlight of your South America travel.
• Sierra Nevada de Cocuy, Colombia : Snow in Colombia? Here you can find peaks are as high as 5,330 meters above sea level. If you have your own gear and a good sleeping bag , you can probably do the hike without a guide.
•  Iliniza-Norte, Ecuador . This is a fantastic 2-day trek that does not require any special gear or equipment. If you are planning to tackle Cotopaxi this is a great warm-up. A solid challenge for the dedicated hiker!
• The Salkantay trek, Peru: Hike to Machu Picchu over 4 days and experience the true beauty of the Andes along the way. One of my favorite South American treks for sure.
• The Cordillera Huayhuash, Peru : Truly one of the most stunning areas in Peru. For serious hikers, planning a trek like this is one for the books!
• Hut-to-Hut in Bariloche, Argentina:  Spectacular hike for some of the best views of Nahuel Huapi National Park and its lakes. Tents are optional since you can stay exclusively in the refugios.
• Villa O’Higgins to El Chaltén, Chile/Argentina : One of the greatest ways to experience Patagonia. Walk from Villa O’Higgins in Chile to El Chaltén in Argentina. You’ll see some superlative mountain, forest, and lake scenery along the way.
• Torres Del Paine Circuit, Chile : The hike of all hikes in South America. This epic walk takes 9 – 11 days and passes through some of the most dramatic landscapes one can fathom. A must if you’ve got the time and hiking spirit!

Scuba Diving in South America

You have scuba diving options galore in South America! In general, scuba diving is pricier than it is in other parts of the world but that’s because it’s worth it. If it is something that you really want to do, I say go for it! 

Colombia is probably the cheapest and best place to dive AND get certified in South America. You have Providencia and Santa Catalina (a smaller island to the north) which is home to the third-largest coral reef barrier on Earth and includes over 40 dive sites.

Malpelo is the harder-to-reach version: a jagged rock in the Colombian Pacific, it can only be reached by boat, and divers can only visit here as part of an organized trip. It’s worth the time and money for sure; Malpelo is one of the best places in the world to dive with sharks, including hammerheads, whale, and the rare sun ray shark.

People have reported schools of up to 500 sharks around Malpelo. That’s right. 500!

Peru and Ecuador both have some decent diving right off their coasts. The diving around the Galápagos Islands is world-class, but it will cost you a fortune go diving there.

If you truly want to have the scuba diving adventure of a lifetime, I highly recommend joining a Liveaboard trip.

• Liveaboard the Galapagos
• Liveaboard Colombia

Surfing in South America

Surfing is the number one sport on South America’s coast. From Peru to Brazil, backpackers and locals are coming together and shredding!

Peru is home to the longest left-breaking wave in the world . You can literally ride a wave for five minutes!

The Pacific Coast is dotted with funky surf towns, where the main activities revolve around the waves and the nightlife. There are a plethora of surf schools in every country. Often these surf schools offer Spanish classes as well if you are wanting to double down (which I highly suggest!).

It is easy to fall in love with the surfing lifestyle. But be careful, you might just fall in love with the whole scene. I wouldn’t blame you for a second.

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Is backpacking South America safe?

Yes. Backpacking South America is safe. Just bear in mind that crime rates are higher than in some other areas of the world. But by following standard safety procedures, there’s no reason why that crime should affect you. Be sensible, show people plenty of respect, and look after your friends.

How are the bus journeys in South America?

The long-distance buses are generally top quality and comfortable. Just be aware that distances on the map can be deceiving and journeys can be long so bring plenty of water, food, something to keep you warm in the baltic aircon, and probably some toilet paper too.

Is travelling South America as a woman possible?

Absolutely! Not only is it possible, it’s awesome. Do remember that, unfortunately, women do have to consider safety as a factor more so than men, especially after dark. But with that in mind, prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.

How are South Americans so damn sexy?

There are too many reasons. Just go and spark up conversation with them and find out for yourself. Beware though, you’re likely to fall completely, madly, deeply in love.

Backpacking South America can be one hell of a party at times. Take it from me, it can be easy to get carried away.

You can make a positive impact on people when we travel and South America is the perfect place to do that. Try to spend your money in places where the experience is mutually rewarding.

When buying a local craft, be fair to the person who spent countless hours crafting it. Pay people their worth and contribute to the local economies as much as possible.

If you visit small or indigenous communities, be respectful: they are normal folks just living their lives.  Backpacking South America – or any region for that matter – often illuminates some of the great socio-economic inequalities of the world. Never take it for granted that you are healthy and financially able to go travelling.

Show the world around you some gratitude and help to make a positive impact on it. Most of all have the time of your life and spread the love!

Well, amigos, the time has come for me to send you on your travellin’ way. Armed with your budget travel knowledge, on you go!

Your South America backpacking trip awaits. Have a few cold ones for me, yeah?

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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30 Comments

Great post, loved the detail and enthusiasm you have for South America. I am saving up to travel from northern Colombia all the way down the west to Patagonia and then back up the other side (yes I am aware it will take the best part of a year). I wondered if you had any tips on the best time of year to start this adventure?

Plan your time with the weather and seasons in mind! Have a great time.

Is traveling to brazil unwise right now because of the covid situation? Has it become more unsafe because of the covid situation? It’s been really difficult to find solid information, and making a decision wether to visit or not has been quite difficult. Thanks for the otherwise wonderful post! Super informative.

informative post . best of luck

Hi Kami, glad you liked the article!

Very nice blog, congratulations I found a cheaper way to flight some routes inside Latin America If someone have plans, after this health crisis is gone, just ask me, I will be glad to help

Interesting. However as a Guyanese, that us from Guyana, South America I always find it odd that many persons leave out the English Dutch and French speaking countries of South America. We too have things to offer.

Hello Malkia, We totally agree with you! As soon as we manage to visit Guyana, we will update this guide! I look forward to exploring your country. Cheers

Hey there!! So I am planning a trip to south America this summer. I have a couples questions. I’m flying into Bogota, Colombia. I plan on spending 2-3 months in SA. I’d like to travel from Bogota to Machu Picchu, then to Buenos Aires, and depending on time Brazil. I am trying to figure out the cheapest way to travel from country to country. I don’t care about long bus rides or any of that. I just don’t know where to purchase the cheapest bus tickets. Please help!!!

Simply the cheapest tickets are usually at the bus station, or wherever locals buy their tickets. Look out for agencies and the like that might add a fee for booking the very same thing you could yourself.

I have a good tip to move around if you need to do it by plane, just let me know if you plan (after the whole problem is gone) to fly some stretches.

Hey man great blog, been reading so many of your posts recently, can you email me I wanna chat to someone who knows there stuff… I’m going to South America for about 6 to 8 months on a budget and need help planning a route… hopefully you see this and we can chat thank you

Hey Jamie, What is your question specifcally regarding your route? Cheers!

Thank you so much for sharing these information – they are so useful!

I am planning a trip of a lifetime to South America. To keep cost down, I am likely to stay in hostels for the first time. I like to understand how travellers wash their clothes in hostels. Are there usually any washer or dryer machines in hostels? Do we usually have to pay to use them? What is the price like?

Look forward to hearing from you.

Hi Tina, Some hostels offer laundry services. Other times you can get your laundry done at local lavanderias . Depending on the country, prices are usually pretty reasonable. They usually charge by the weight. Getting a massive load of clothes washed should not cost you more than $10 (sometimes way less) washed, dried, and folded. Cheers!

Thanks Chris for this wonderful article. Bolivia and Brazil is a magical place! Anyone who went there said it was absolutely amazing! That nature is just wonderful here. keep sharing your travel ides about more places of South America.

Cheers, Mate!

I started my South American journey two months ago and this has been a big help. There’s literally so many options once you get down here. Overwhelming in all of the best ways.

Much love from Peru.

Wow! That’s a marvelous article! Unfortunately, not so long ago, I was in South America, and I really had a lot of predicaments while traveling. If only I had read this article before the traveling, most likely, my trip would have been better!

Great content, congratulations.

Really great and in depth guide, thank you! Planning my first trip to South America and really like the look of your 3 month route across Peru, Ecuador and Columbia, was thinking of taking another couple of weeks on top to see Bolivia as well. What month would you advise starting this travel? (would really like to be home for Christmas)

The autumn months would be a lovely time to visit South America 🙂

Awesome content! I took so much advice and suggestions. I feel like I can plan whatever kind of trip ranging in length of time spent there plus budgeting. Thanks!

It’s great that you’re such a strong advocate of reusable water bottles and avoiding one-use bottles and generally I totally agree. However, I normally refill my water bottle from the tap, which obviously isn’t safe everywhere. Geneally can you drink tap water in South America? Or if not how do you safely refill without buying bottled water?

We’ve used lots of things over the years to harvest clean water from taps and streams. The GRAYL filter bottle is one of our favorites. South America is something of a mixed bag when it comes to drinking water. It ranges from safe to unsafe with every shade of chloriney in between.

I am starting my South America trip new month and I found this website extremely useful. One question though – I am worried about the requirement to show proof of onward travel. Any idea if Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia require this?

Hi Neringa,

I never had to show proof of onward travel during my 6 months in South America. There was never a time when a customs officer/border police questioned me about my onward travel plans. You should be just fine 🙂

Thanks, Chris. You have been right! But I was requested to provide proof of onward travel by Avianca when flying for Cusco to Quito. Maybe because my passport expires soon. My friend, however, did not have one and was still allowed to board the plane 🙂 There was a group of Israeli guys who I think had to show this info, too.

Thanks a lot man, I’m planning a 3 month trip to Colombia, Peru and Brazil next year and this really helped me get my head around how to do it and the kind of money I’m gonna need to save! Cheers dude

Thanks, this really helped me a lot for planning my trip next year!

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An Epic 3-Month Travel Itinerary for South-East Asia

If you’re looking to spend 3 months in South East Asia, we may just have the perfect route for you. Here to share her route is Aussie-based Brit Alanna Gibson, who travelled this exact same 3 month travel itinerary for South East Asia, starting in Bangkok, Thailand. 

Part 1 – pre-departure excitement.

Summer is here and I am finally free from university, so I had to ask myself the question on every students mind around this time of year – what the hell am I going to do for the next 4 months?! For me there was only one credible answer – travel. During a cold December evening I took the plunge and booked return flights to Bangkok, flying out on the 13 th June and returning on the 10 th September, giving me just under three months to explore the region of South East Asia.

I will be packing up my life in my little 40 litre backpack and heading off into the unknown. As a student I am heavily reliant on my student loan and  I am on a pretty tight budget for my travels. I therefore plan to save money wherever possible, such as catching sleeper trains instead of flights , dining in street stalls and staying in hostels . I am even spending a couple of weeks living for f ree in exchange for working on a Filipino family’s coconut farm! So, it’s time to announce my 3 month travel itinerary for South East Asia. 

Last updated 19 March 2024

An Epic 3 Month Travel Itinerary for South East Asia

I begin and end my  3 month travel itinerary for South East Asia in Bangkok,  so I will have plenty of time to explore this diverse city. I have visited Bangkok a few times before and it is truly one of my favourite cities in the world. However, the recent political instability and the military rule makes me a little dubious about how the city is going to be during my time of visit. The imposed nationwide curfew from 10pm-5am means nobody is allowed to be out of their accommodation during these hours. Quite how the tourist party districts of Kao San Road and Patpong are going to look during this time I cannot imagine! Nevertheless, I am sure to be able to cram in some sightseeing before setting off to the northern regions.

Browse cheap flights to Bangkok .

2. northern thailand.

Here I plan to spend a couple of days in the laid back city of Chiang Mai before heading into the far north western region of Pai . Tourists are known to go to Pai with the agenda of spending a couple of nights and end up staying for months. You can book your own mountain view bungalow for as little as £30 a month which is very tempting indeed… Nevertheless I do have time constraints so will try to spend about 5 days here, trekking, visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary and white water rafting while also finding time to kick back and relax with fellow travellers and locals.

From Northern Thailand I plan to catch a bus to Chiang Kong at the Thai/Laos border . From there we will be taking a 2 day long boat journey along the Mekong River to the laid back tourist hub of Luang Prabang . There are an abundance of Buddhist temples in the area we hope to visit and who knows, maybe even take a little Buddhist retreat! After some relaxation, I will be travelling south to perhaps the world’s most unlikely party place – Viang Vieng . This small riverside town is known for tourists, drinking and tubing. Just a night or two will be enough here before heading east into Vietnam!

4. HANOI AND HA LONG BAY

I will spend a couple of nights in the busy city of Hanoi and soak up some Vietnamese culture before heading to Ha Long Bay – a collection of 2000 uninhabited limestone islands surrounded by emerald sea. There are many tour operators offering excellent looking ‘Junk Boat’ experiences where you spend a couple of nights touring the bay, snorkelling, rock climbing and kayaking.

5. VIETNAM COAST AND HO CHI MINH CITY

After Ha Long Bay I will be touring the east coast of Vietnam before finishing my Vietnamese Journey in Ho Chi Minh City. For some of the journey, I want to hop between cities using motorbikes, and for the longer journeys I will use buses or sleeper trains. The historical city of Hoi An sounds fantastic – I am especially excited to get some dirt cheap customised trainers and clothing, of which Hoi An is famous for! Sand boarding on the beautiful dunes of Mui Ne is also a must for me, along with the white sand beaches of Nha Trang . Finally, I will spend a couple of nights in Ho Chi Minh City (previously known as Saigon) before catching our flight to Manila, the Philippines.

Read: The Ultimate 3 Week Vietnam Travel Itinerary

6. the philippines.

The Philippines is the country I have always wanted to go to most in my life. I am unsure exactly why but I have heard so many good things about this place. The Philippines is not part of the usual South East Asian Backpackers route but I am unsure why. Perhaps because it quite far out from the other countries.

I am excited to ride the crazy sounding ‘Jeepneys,’ which are converted WW2 American Jeeps transformed into wacky graffiti covered vehicles. After spending a couple of nights in Manila , and hopefully experiencing the renowned ‘Manila Sunset’, I will spend 10 days ‘WWOOF’ing, which stands for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farm s. I will live with a Filipino family on their Coconut Farm and helping them with farming duties each day in exchange for free food and accommodation. I think this will be an excellent way to understand a little more about the Filipino culture and way of life! After this I will be exploring some of the 4000 Philippine islands, balancing our time with relaxing on white sandy beaches and taking adventures such as volcano climbing and scuba diving.

Read: An Essential Guide to The Philippines

7. MALAYSIA

After one month in the Philippines, I continue my 3 month travel itinerary for South East Asia in Kuala Lumpar . I plan to spend around two weeks in Malaysia, exploring the cosmopolitan city of Kuala Lumpar, the deep jungles in the Cameron Highlands and the charming east coast Perhentian Islands.

8. THAI ISLANDS

Now what better place to end my three month adventure that in the backpackers’ party paradise of the Thai Islands!? I will first be heading west, checking out the party scene in Koh Phi Phi and the laid back beaches of Krabi. After this, it will be overland to the east coast islands such as Samui, Tao and, of course, Koh Phangan – the home of the full moon party! I will be sure to enjoy plenty of buckets, some last minute sun bathing and late night partying before heading back to Bangkok for my return flight to England!

What do you think of Alanna’s 3 month travel itinerary for South East Asia? Are you planning a similar trip or have you experienced something similar? If so, please leave a comment in the box below.

Jessica Ruth Gibson

Jessica Ruth Gibson is the Founder and Editor of Travelista and an award-winning travel content creator of 10 years. She lives in York, UK with her son and has travelled to over 50 countries; her favourites being Italy, Canada and Vietnam.

jasminedesirees

Great post, I’m still on my trip (6 months in) but did a similar itinerary, adding in Australia, New Zealand and Indonesia. We were in Thailand for 6 weeks total, and I feel like I saw so much of the country, but I’m very sad I wasn’t able to make it to Pai! Probably my one regret, but we did so many other amazing things, I guess you can’t do everything! Thanks for sharing!

Wow I have always wanted to ride an elephant! What a great post.

Beth x TheBritishGirl.co.uk

Charlotte ♡

Sounds so exciting 🙂 I’m travelling South East Asia in September but haven’t really made plans yet, so posts like this are really helpful! Looking forward to the next installment.

This sounds amazing – I’m so jealous!! Planning to do almost this exact same trip next year so will be reading every post to pick up as many tips as possible!

Reblogged this on Denim Fish and commented: Wow sounds like quite a journey

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If we had 3 months in Europe this is where we would go! [3 Month Itinerary]

Europe how we love you! If you’re reading this, you’re likely considering a longer Europe adventure, and we are so happy for you! After completing 6 months full time travel in Europe, and multiple other trips to various regions in the continent, we are uniquely qualified to give a little advice, and a few suggestions! We urge you to do lots of research, including reading blogs like ours, before you start planning you adventures. Take a look below at some recommendations, where we would head if we visited Europe for 3 months, and a few proposed itineraries for you to check out!

A few things to consider when travelling for 3 months (or more)

3 months isn’t as long as you think.. don’t try and fit everything in! Yes, 3 months seems like a lot, and it is! However, Europe is enormous, and despite the temptation of trying to tick off every one of your ideal destinations, we urge you to slow it down a little and re-assess. We travelled Europe for 6 months, and despite visiting 25 countries, we didn’t even get close to seeing everything, or ticking off all places we were keen to visit (Malta we will return for you!). Therefore, we urge you to pick your standouts, work out where you definitely want to visit, and spend some time in these locations.

Fast & Slow travel: Leading on from the last point, some destinations you may skip through quicker, but definitely we urge you to slow down in others. Not only will this help you refresh and enjoy it more, you physically cant keep going country-to-country every few days. We put a little piece together on Slow vs Fast travel if you want to read a little more on this area.

Head to a variety of different locations . Don’t spend your entire 3 months in big cities. However, spending the whole trip on the beach is likely too much as well. We would recommend striking a balance. Definitely include some big cities full of history, culture and good food (see our favourites below). We also strongly encourage you to check out the smaller towns as the often give a more authentic and often picturesque experience. And depending on your preferences, head out into nature, whether it be beachside, or hiking, or lakeside. There’s so much in Europe and we recommend you sample a complete range!

Step away from the conventional tourist paths for awhile. The ‘big ticket items’ (e.g. Italy, France etc) are popular for a reason, they are often spectacular. However, underrated countries and destinations are often just as impressive, and come with far less cost and fewer tourists. We definitely think it’s worth considering.

Do lots of research! Well done, you’re already on the way with this point by reading this blog! There’s so much great information out there, and the more you research the better you can plan your dream 3 month trip!

Where we would travel if we were heading to Europe for 3 months

If we were in your shoes, planning a dream 3+ month holiday, these are some of the countries and regions we would lock straight into our travel itinerary.

It’s a no-brainer. Italy is one of the best countries in all of Europe (and the world) to visit! Filled with amazing food, stunning big cities, so many inland and coastal towns, and lots of impressive beaches. Despite the popularity, there’s still many places to see that are a little away from the busy crowds. Don’t think twice, plan to head to Italy. Breaking down where to visit in Italy becomes a little more of a challenge. To give you some inspiration, we urge you to consider the following locations:

• Puglia: see why we loved this underrated coastal region!
• Tuscany: see our road trip through this amazing region!

The stunning country of Croatia is a true gem and definitely somewhere you should look to visit, especially during warmer summer months and shoulder seasons! Boasting some of the best beaches in the world, a crazy amount of incredible islands to explore, and lots of wonderful seaside towns, Croatia is a must visit! See some of the locations in Croatia that we loved!

• Croatian Islands: our favourite island is Vis!
• Makarska: this beachside town is bursting with reasons to visit!
• Dubrovnik: despite the tourist ‘hype’, it’s worth visiting!

Switzerland:

Ah Switzerland, your beauty is boundless! Our visit to this stunning country was punctuated with family moments (Tess’s Swiss-Italian family), incredible views, great hikes and cute towns to explore. We urge you to visit the many mountainous and lake regions, where postcard views will be at every turn. Don’t miss:

• Jungfrau: see our guide to the region!
• Oeschinensee: one of the most beautiful natural regions we have ever seen!

Portugal may well be our favourite country in Europe, or at least a close second to Italy. We loved the cities, beaches and smaller towns, but even more so enjoy the positive and welcoming nature of the locals. The food was excellent, and there was so, so much to see and do. If you’re heading to Europe, definitely consider Portugal on your ‘hit list’ of places to check out. We urge you to visit:

• Lisbon: our pick of things to do in Lisbon!
• Porto: our snapshot of Porto!
• Algarve: the impressive Portuguese beachside region

The Balkans:

This region in the central-east of Europe is truly a hidden gem filled with so many amazing places to explore. While Croatia (listed above) is part of the Balkans, there are many more amazing countries like Slovenia, Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia, Romania and more! You could easily spend a month or 2 just in this region, so we’d strongly urge you to consider adding the Balkans into your Europe trip. Take a look at our guide to the Balkans here.

And don’t miss..

There’s so many more amazing locations which we will include below, including cities like Copenhagen, Prague, Budapest and Edinburgh, along with amazing small towns and regions like south of France, Lake Bled, Albanian Riviera and more!

3 month Europe travel itineraries:

The planning is always a strange mix of extreme excitement and wanderlust, mixed with stress and ‘fear of missing out’. However, as discussed above, we urge you to not try and ‘fit everything in’, and choose a few key areas and regions to visit! Additionally, we also recommend a mix of coastal, big cities and smaller towns/regions. We have put together a few sample itineraries that we think cover off all the regions we love, and give you a wonderful mix of different locations. These can be copied exactly, but are more designed to give you inspiration for you 3 month travel planning.

Option 1: Switzerland, Italy & the Balkans

This itinerary covers of so many of our favourite places, particularly Switzerland, Italy and the Balkans! Start in the Swiss capital of Zurich , make your way down to the stunning Jungfrau region , before heading to one of our favourite countries, Italy ! Spend up to a month in Italy covering off Tuscany, Rome, Puglia and Venice, before a pit stop in Lake Bled on the way to another of our favourite countries, Croatia ! Head along the coast, to some of the islands, and a pit stop to Mostar on your way to Dubrovnik . After Dubrovnik, don’t miss Kotor in Montenegro, before flying across to check out the booming Albanian Riviera. Head further off the tourist path with Lake Ohrid, Sofia, and Transylvania (Romania). Finish your amazing trip visiting 2 of our top big cities in Budapest and Prague !

• Switzerland: 1-2 weeks
• Italy 3-4 weeks
• Lake Bled 3 days
• Croatia 2-3 weeks
• Mostar 1-2 days
• Kotor 3-4 days
• Albanian Riviera 7 days
• Lake Ohrid 3-5 days
• Skopje 1 day
• Sofia 2 days
• Romania 5-7 days
• Budapest 2-3 days
• Prague 2-4 days

Option 2: Portugal, Spain, Sth France, Italy & Croatia

This is another amazing option to visit some of our few favourite European locations, including Portugal, southern Spain and France, Switzerland, Lake Bled and Sicily! Start you travels in one of the best countries around, Portugal ! Work down from Porto, Lisbon and the Algarve, before heading to the Andalusian region of Spain . A pit stop in Barcelona takes you through to the beautiful south of France . Don’t miss Avignon and Gordes! Head across to the Jungfrau region of Switzerland, and then make your way to northern Italy. We recommended Lake Garda over Como, and pit stop in Venice before stopping at the gorgeous Lake Bled ! Head down to the underrated Sicily in Italy to finish you adventures with great food, beaches and culture!

• Portugal: 1-2 weeks
• South Spain: 1 week
• Barcelona: 3 days
• South France: 1 week
• Switzerland: 1 week
• Northern Italy: 1 week
• Lake Bled: 2-3 days
• Southern Italy: 1-2 weeks

Option 3: Northern Europe

Start in one of our favourite cities in Europe, Edinburgh . Spend at least 3 days here, and try to get up to the Scottish Highlands if you can. Make your way down to London stopping at the historic towns of York and Cambridge. London has so much to offer, but could easily be sampled in a few days, or spend a longer timeframe and see so much more. Catch a train from London to Brussels , then check out some of the other smaller Belgian towns, with Bruges top of our list. Make your up to Leiden which we consider a ‘mini Amsterdam’ and is a great base to stay and visit the nearby Amsterdam . From the Netherlands, make your up to Copenhagen stopping a few times in Northern Germany . When at Copenhage n, stay at least 3 days in one of our favourite cities in Europe! Consider day trips the the Swiss town of Malmo by train (approximately 45minutes) or the fishing village of Hornbaek (1-2 hours via train). Tick off some of the top big cities in Europe with Berlin, Prague and Munich before slowing down a bit in the Jungfrau Region and lake region of Switzerland. We then encourage you to either finish your trip in 2 of our favourite countries, Italy or Croatia !

• Edinburgh: 3-4 days
• Scottish Highlands: 2-3 days
• York: 1-2 days
• Cambridge: 1-2 days
• London: 3-7 days
• Brussels: 2 days
• Bruges: 1-2 days
• Leiden: 1-2 days (or stay here for Amsterdam)
• Amsterdam: 1-3 days (pending if you stay Leiden or Amsterdam)
• Dusseldorf/Dortmund: 1-4 days
• Hamburg: 1-3 days
• Copenhagen: 3-5 days
• Hornbaek: 1-2 days (or day trip)
• Malmo: 1 day (or day trip)
• Berlin: 2-4 days
• Prague: 2-4 days
• Munich: 2-4 days
• Choose Italy or Croatia to finish your trip for 1-2 weeks

These are only example travel itineraries put together to spark inspiration and excitement! We have visited most of these locations, and have literally 100s of guides available on our blog. We have also put together some recommendations to help you travel. A few top options include our complete Europe Travel Guide and our Favourite Accommodation in Europe !

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Itinerary for 3 months in Central America

• Post author: Lydia Bigley
• Post published: 17th July 2019
• Post category: Central America / Itineraries
• Post comments: 3 Comments

Central America is crammed full of (some very active!) volcanos, Mayan ruins, Caribbean beaches, pacific surf, stunning wildlife, exotic jungles, and friendly locals but is not as big on the backpacker trail as South America.

Why Central America?

I had started learning Spanish and with some knowledge of the language visiting Latin America was a more appealing option.

As I only wanted to spend 3 months backpacking, Central America seemed to fit both my budget and time frame best. It’s cheaper to travel in than South America and it also sounded a little more exotic.

From the January to March 2016 I spent 3 months backpacking through Central America. I organised the trip independently and travelled solo; just me and my backpack.

After flying to Cancun, Mexico, I made my way overland through all 7 countries that make up the region before flying back to Cancun from Panama City to catch my return flight.

Read on for my 3 month Central America itinerary including my highlights and lowlights.

Mexico – 7 nights

Mexico is a common entry or exit point for the Central American region. Nearly everybody I met on my trip had either started, been through, or were planning to finish there. Popular holiday destinations such as Cancun means cheaper return flights, and there are excellent onward connections to other Central American cities.

Cancun – 2 nights

Known for its all-inclusive resorts and infamous as a spring break destination, Cancun wasn’t part of my original itinerary. However as it offered the cheapest return flights to the region I decided to spend a couple of nights there.

Cancun has two very different sides. The expensive touristy Zona Hotelera, and the very ordinary workaday Cancun city. I opted to stay in the city as it had the option of budget single rooms. I didn’t fancy sleeping in a hostel dorm after a long-haul flight.

I slightly regretted this decision. Although it does offer a more authentic glimpse into Mexican life, there really isn’t much to see or do in the town. It’s a good 15 minute bus ride to Zona Hotelera beaches, the best thing about Cancun!

I would advise splurging a little on a room in the Zona Hotelera. If you don’t mind hostel dorms, there are a few there as well.

Isla Mujeres – 2 nights

This lovely little chilled out Island, only a 15 minute boat ride from Cancun, has a very different vibe. Less touristy and more backpacker friendly and has plenty of budget accommodation. I spent my time swimming, biking, and running around the Island.

I really enjoyed my 2 nights there and could definitely have stayed longer.

Tulum – 3 nights

Tulum was a handy stopping off point as I headed south to Belize. Best known for its Mayan Ruins, the only ones located on the Caribbean sea. It’s very touristy (Justin Bieber had been thrown out of the ruins a few days before I arrived) but less expensive than Cancun. I also visited the Mayan ruins at Coba, located less than an hour from Tulum by bus. Not as busy as the Tulum ones, their jungle setting, complete with wild Crocodiles, makes Coba worth a visit.

My Highlight

The stunning white sand beaches and turquoise Caribbean sea in Cancun

My Lowlight

This part of Mexico is tourist central

What surprised me…

Seeing wild crocodiles chilling out at the entrance to the Coba ruins!

My Average Price for one nights accommodation

Belize – 6 nights.

Belize is an anomaly in Central America; English speaking with a more Caribbean vibe. The lack of a language barrier makes it very easy to travel independently. One of the most expensive countries in the region, it has a well-developed tourism industry.

Belize City – 1 night

Although the country’s biggest and most important city Belize City is not the capital, that honour goes to Belmopan. Even though the reviews weren’t great I still wanted to check it out. It felt seedy and run down but not particularly unsafe. One day was definitely enough, there really isn’t much to do or see there. If you’re stuck for time, skip it.

Caye Caulker – 3 nights

I loved Caye Caulker! This little island, a short boat ride from Belize City, is a backpacker haven. A budget destination in an otherwise (relatively) expensive country. There are no cars on the Island and it’s compact enough to explore on foot.

I swam in the Split and rented a kayak to explore the, largely uninhabited, northern part of the island. There are also lots of places offering diving and snorkelling trips. I went on a full day snorkelling trip to the Hol Chan Marine Reserve with E-Z Boy Tours. It was absolutely amazing! We snorkelled with sharks, turtles, eagle rays and a ton of other marine wildlife. One of the highlights of my whole Central America trip.

San Ignacio – 2 nights

Located in the western Belize near the Guatemalan border, I really didn’t know what to expect from San Ignacio. I was pleasantly surprised. This small town is surrounded by steamy jungle and the location felt really exotic. There are dozens of tour operators offering expensive trips to sights such as the ATM Caves and Caracol Mayan ruins. Instead, I hopped on a local bus to the Xunantunich Mayan Ruins, a short ride from the town. The beautiful surrounding jungle was full of noisy Howler monkeys!

Snorkelling with sharks in Shark Ray Alley

Not having enough time to explore more of the country

Just how much marine life I saw on the snorkel trip!

Guatemala – 28 nights

I unintentionally spent almost a month in Guatemala. Partly because it was so inexpensive and partly because there’s so much to do and see! Guatemala has a mainly indigenous Mayan or mixed Mayan population. Many of the women (and occasionally the men) continue to wear traditional dress, that gives this Central American country a distinct character.

Tikal – 1 night

Located deep in the jungle of the tropical northern El Peten region, the Mayan Ruins of Tikal are Guatemala’s number one tourist attraction. Considered one of the greatest Mayan ruins, for me, it was their stunning location that was the most impressive.

I splurged a little so I could stay in the park and it was worth it. At night the Jungle sounds are amazing. It also means you can experience the sunset and take a sunrise tour which are wonderful experiences.

El Remate – 2 nights

The sleepy little village of El Remate is the closest budget option to Tikal. I chose it over Flores because I wanted to stay somewhere away from the backpacker trail. There’s not much to do here but the location is idyllic and it’s easy to make a day trip to Flores. I did a short hike in the Biotopo Cerro Cahui , a subtropical forest nature reserve, where I caught a glimpse of a tapir!

Flores to Guatemala City overnight bus – 1 night

In general, travelling by night bus in Central America is not recommended. The Linea Dorada overnight bus from Santa Elena (beside Flores) to Guatemala City is the exception.

I had read that the air con would be on full blast and the bus would be freezing but this wasn’t my experience! Instead the bus was warm and I felt a little claustrophobic and cramped at my window seat. There wasn’t much leg room and my stuff was squashed around me. I didn’t get much sleep. The bus also arrives in Guatemala City around 6am so make sure you have somewhere to go as the area around the bus station is not safe.

Guatemala City – 1 night

Guatemala City doesn’t have a great reputation. Big, dirty and dangerous (in parts) and without much in the way of sightseeing. Despite this, as it’s the capital and Guatemala’s biggest city, I wanted to visit.

It didn’t feel unsafe during the day. The Zona 1 area was busy and felt safe and I walked around other areas without any trouble. However, the sight of armed guards at every shop door and metal bars on all the windows was disconcerting.

Quetzaltenango (Xela) – 14 nights

Guatemala is one of the cheapest places in Central America to study Spanish. There are numerous inexpensive schools all around the country. The two main hubs are the touristy town of Antigua, near Guatemala City, and Quetzaltenango (known locally as Xela) in the Guatemalan Highlands. As I was looking for a more authentic Guatemalan experience, I chose Xela.

The town itself, Guatemala’s second biggest, doesn’t offer much in the way of tourist attractions but it’s a great place to get an insight into local life. Budget friendly and safe, there are good dining options (I had one of the best meals of my trip here ), lively bars, and lots of exciting tours to surrounding areas.

I took a two week intensive Spanish course at Celas Maya Spanish School. The cost included full board accommodation with a local family and was really good value. The school also offers low cost or free tours. The best of which was climbing Volcan Tajumulco, the highest point in Central America.

San Marcus (Lago de Atitlan) – 5 nights

Tiny San Marcus La Laguna is on the north-western shore of beautiful Lago de Atitlan. It’s a tranquil and pretty spot to explore the lake. I spent 5 nights staying with an American friend who was living there.

This region is definitely worth a visit. The lake is stunning and it’s fun crossing between the villages on lanchas (small speed boats). I swam in the lake and visited busy Panajachel and the backpacker hub of San Pedro. I also went in search of the revered Guatemalan deity Maximon in Santiago Atitlan, the biggest town on the lake.

Antigua – 3 nights

I was in two minds as to whether I should visit Antigua. This town, an hour from Guatemala city, is very much the tourism epicentre of the country. For many visitors this is the only part of Guatemala they see. In the end I was glad I did. Yes it’s very touristy, but it’s still a charming city to wander around.

After several weeks in small Guatemalan towns, I was delighted to have some home comforts; quality coffee and a choice of good restaurants. Unsurprisingly, It’s more expensive than the rest of Guatemala but there is still plenty of budget accommodation. I took a Coffee tour with De la Gente in the nearby town of San Miguel Escobar. A fascinating and enjoyable experience that I would highly recommend to any coffee lover.

Climbing Volcan Tajumulco and watching the sunrise, 4200m up in the sky.

The country’s gun culture. Seeing so many armed security guards, police, and soldiers, was unsettling.

How long I ended up spending here!

(*this doesn’t include accommodation in Xela, as it was included in the Spanish course cost, or staying with my friend in San Marcus).

El Salvador – 6 nights

The smallest country in Central America, poor old El Salvador doesn’t have the best reputation. It frequently vies with Honduras for the awful headline grabbing ‘murder capital of the world’ tag. As a result a lot of tourists skip it, which is a pity. Like most other Central America countries, violent crime rarely effects tourists and its bad rap wasn’t going to stop me visiting.

What I did find were some of the friendliest, helpful and kindest people on my whole trip. The lack of tourists means that foreign visitors are welcomed with open arms. The lack of tourism means it’s also really cheap to travel there. The worst thing that happened to me was a bad bout of food poisoning.

As I was short on time I decided to skip the capital San Salvador. After Guatemala City I didn’t feel like visiting another big dirty city. As the country’s main transport hub it’s likely you will at least pass through it, as I did on the way to Suchitoto.

Santa Ana – 3 nights

The town itself is nothing special but it offers a good base to visit the surrounding sights. I did a DIY day trip to the wonderful Parque Nacional Los Volcanes and travelled around the La Ruta de las Flores on local buses.

Suchitoto – 3 nights

Several people I met on the trip raved about Suchitoto, the cultural capital of the country. With its well preserved multicoloured colonial architecture it’s a pretty little town to spend a few days exploring. There is a gorgeous outdoor swimming pool on the banks of Lago de Suchitlan in the Centro Turistico Puerto San Juan .

Unfortunately, while here I got really ill with suspected food poisoning. I had to stay an extra night to regain some strength before travelling on to Honduras.

My Highlights

Visiting the Parque Nacional Los Volcanes with some fellow travellers. Having the pool to myself in Centro Turistico Puerto San Juan

My Lowlights

Getting really ill with food poisoning

How friendly and helpful the locals were. They seemed genuinely happy to have travellers in their country

Honduras – 10 nights

Like El Salvador, Honduras doesn’t have a great reputation. The second biggest country in Central America, I really didn’t know what to expect but I was pleasantly surprised by the beautiful scenery while travelling across the country.

Note: it’s not considered safe to use local buses (chicken buses etc.) at any time here. Instead use private coach services such as Hedman Alas or tourist shuttle vans. There’s no need to be paranoid but read up on the current situation before you travel and don’t take any unnecessary risks just to save a few bucks.

Copán Ruinas – 1 night

I headed straight to Copán Ruinas from Suchitoto, El Salvador. The plan was to spend two nights here so I would have a full day to visit the famous Mayan ruins. However due to my illness I had to spend an extra night in El Salvador. As I had already pre-booked my bus ticket to La Ceiba online I ended up only spending one night there. Unfortunately this meant I didn’t get to visit the ruins.

La Ceiba – 1 night

I spent one night in La Ceiba to break up my journey before catching the morning ferry to Utila . I arrived late in the afternoon and left early the next morning so didn’t really see the city.

Utila – 8 nights

While researching my trip I found out that Utila, part of the Bay Islands, is one of the cheapest places in the world to learn to dive. I thought it would be cool to get my dive license there.

I envisaged a sweet little Caribbean island like Caye Caulker. Sadly Utila wasn’t like that. The island was dirty and polluted and there were traffic jams(!!) on the main street. The beaches weren’t great and there were lots of mosquitos and sand flies. While it didn’t feel unsafe, there were plenty of dodgy characters hanging around.

As I was still recovering from my illness I had to postpone starting the course for a few days and stay in bed. Admittedly this may have somewhat tainted my experience of Utila!

Nonetheless, I enjoyed the diving in the end and successfully completed the Padi Open Water Diver course. There was a great diving community there and I made friends with fellow backpackers and holiday makers.

Utila – La Ceiba – Leon – 1 day crossing Honduras

Having spent an extra few days in Utila I was now really short on time. So I opted for a tourist shuttle van to take me directly from La Ceiba to Leon in Nicaragua. The journey took over 16 hours, but the mini-van was comfortable. It had air-conditioning, working WiFi, and movies on board.

We made several pit stops along the way and it was interesting to see the Honduran countryside. Our driver helped us with the border formalities crossing into Nicaragua. We didn’t arrive in Leon until 1.00am but fortunately I was still able to check-in to my pre-booked hostal!

Learning to scuba dive and getting my dive licence

Missing out on the Copán ruins and not having more time to explore the mainland

How beautiful the interior of mainland Honduras was

*This includes subsidised accommodation on Utila as part of the scuba diving course.

Nicaragua – 12 nights

León – 5 nights.

By the time I reached Nicaragua I was exhausted. The illness had taken its toll so I made the decision to spend a bit longer in León to recover properly.

Crumbling colonial León is the intellectual and cultural heart of the country. Far less touristy and polished than Granada it offers a good insight into Nicaraguan city life. It’s a great little town to spend a few days in but I thought 5 nights was too long. As León is baking hot, I advise booking a room with air con if possible.

You can arrange tours to the surrounding volcanos (I went Volcano Boarding on Cerro Negro!) and beaches. Visit Leon Cathedral to get incredible views of the city from the roof. The Mueso de Arte de Fundación Ortiz Gurdián , considered the finest contemporary art museum in Central America, is well worth a visit, not least because the building is lovely and cool!

Isla de Ometepe – 3 nights

Magical and idyllic Ometepe really is a must visit destination in Nicaragua. I skipped the port town of Moyogalpa and headed straight for Merida, an hour long $30 taxi ride away. Due to the limited public transport a taxi is usually necessary. Luckily I found a couple heading that way to share the cost with on the boat over.

In Merida I spent balmy nights sitting on the banks of Lake Nicaragua. Drinking Cuba Libre with new travel buddies and watching fire flies dance around the night sky. I hiked to the San Ramon waterfall and swam in the fabulous El Ojo de Agua pools. The island felt like somewhere you could spend weeks getting lost in time.

San Juan del Sur – 4 nights

I had read mixed reports about San Juan del Sur. It’s a party town and touristy by Nicaraguan standards. It attracts mainly young holidaying North American surfers and backpackers. However it’s surf credentials (it’s considered one of the top surf spots in Central America) were what made me want to visit as I really wanted to take surf lessons.

San Juan del Sur was much more expensive than the rest of Nicaragua. The town was a bit seedy but not unsafe. The locals were often indifferent and somethings a bit brusque, again completely at odds with the rest of my Nicaraguan encounters.

Despite all this, the city beach was lovely to stroll on and watch the fabulous sunsets. I took days trips to Playa Maderas to splash in the crashing Pacific waves and Playa Remanso for a surf lesson. The 3 hour surf lesson was one of the highlights of my entire Central America trip.

Learning to surf in San Juan del Sur and hanging out with new travel buddies on Ometepe Island

Not having enough time to see more of this beautiful country!

How magical and idyllic Ometepe Island was

Costa Rica – 7 nights

Costa Rica is the second wealthiest country in Central America and this quickly became apparent after crossing the border from Nicaragua.  All of a sudden there were air conditioned buses and well-maintained roads.

Costa Rica is stuffed full of stunning scenery, amazing wildlife and is peaceful and safe. As a result it’s also the most visited country in Central America and has a well-developed tourism industry. It’s expensive to visit; the costs were often comparable to the US or Europe but the quality and service didn’t always match.

Monteverde – 3 nights

By this stage in my Central America trip my decision making skills had abandoned me. After much deliberation I settled on Monteverde. It offered something I hadn’t experienced yet (cloud forest) and fit well logistically as I made my way south.

After the baking heat of Nicaragua the cooler cloud forest air was a welcome relief. Unfortunately though, it was full of mainly American tourists and everything was massively overpriced. I found the Cloud Forest Reserve a little underwhelming and the opportunities for DIY wildlife spotting were limited.

I much preferred and had more fun on the Kinkajou Night Walk where I saw host of  fascinating wild animals including a bright green pit viper, tarantula, toucans, scorpions, and an armadillo.

San Jose – 1 night

I spent a night in San Jose to break up my journey on the way down to the Osa Peninsula.

Although there isn’t much to see here, I was excited to be back in a big city after weeks of staying in small towns. I enjoyed people watching and experiencing local life. There are plenty of shops to stock up on any supplies you might need.

I didn’t find it unsafe and was happy enough to spend another night there when I flew back from Panama City.

Bahia Drake (Drake Bay) – 3 nights

The more I read about the Osa Peninsula , the more I wanted to visit. It seemed like it was going to be tough to travel there on a budget. After lots of research, it turned out not to be that difficult . It took approximately 8 hours from San Jose by bus and boat to get to Bahia Drake but it was well worth the journey.

This sparsely populated region is absolutely stunning. The National Geographi c called it “the most biologically intense place on earth” and you will have absolutely no problem spotting wildlife here. Thanks to its location in the very southwest of the country and the time needed to travel there, it’s also one of the least visited regions. After touristy Monteverde and busy San Jose the tranquillity was amazing.

I went on a day trip to the amazing Corcovado National Park and horseback riding to a nearby waterfall and natural pool.

Visiting the stunning Osa Peninsula and Corcovado National Park

Overtourism and feeling constantly ripped off in Monteverde

How expensive everything was

$15 (I stayed mainly in Hostel dorms hence lower average cost)

Panama – 5 nights

By the time I reached Panama I had been on the road for almost 3 months. I was running out of time and money so I chose to base myself in Panama City. The city seemed to offer more than enough attractions for a few days.

This was the last new country on my trip before making my way back to Cancun to catch my flight home.

David – 1 night

I travelled from Bahia Drake in Costa Rica to David, Panama, by boat, bus, and colectivo. Prosperous David is the biggest city in northern Panama and an important transport hub often used as a base to explore nearby Boquete.

Otherwise there really isn’t anything to see or do there and I just spent the night to break up my journey.

Panama City – 4 nights

I took a direct bus from David to Panama City. Journey time was approximately 9 hours including comfort stops but the coach was comfortable and it didn’t drag.

Panama City, with its glitzy skyscrapers and high rise waterfront apartments, is a complete contrast to other Central American capitals. You could easily think you were in Miami. However, walk a few blocks behind the gleaming buildings and the city reveals its gritter side; slums and poverty.

Thanks to a relatively new Metro system, the only one in Central America, and a comprehensive and cheap bus network, it’s very easy to get around the city. Taxis are also ubiquitous and inexpensive.

Visiting the infamous Panama Canal and watching the canal in action from the fascinating Miraflores Locks Visitor Center was one of the highlights. As was riding from the Pacific to the Caribbean coast in an hour on the Panama Canal Railway. I enjoyed running along the beautiful Cinta Costera coastal path around the bay, even in the 27c heat!

The wildlife spotting opportunities in the city were amazing; from seeing sloths in the Metropolitan Natural Park to the toucans and agoutis on Cerro Ancón . There is plenty in Panama City to keep you entertained.

Visiting the infamous Panama Canal

The bland shopping malls and fast food outlets all over Panama City. The stark contract been the rich and poor

How easy it was to spot wildlife in Panama City

Making my way back to Cancun, Mexico via San Jose , Costa Rica

San jose, costa rica – 1 night.

I flew back to San Jose from Panama City and spent the night there before flying on to Cancun the next day.

Cancun, Mexico – 2 nights

After 3 months of backpacking I was really looking forward to relaxing on Cancun’s beaches and swimming in the turquoise sea. I splurged a little and booked a room in the Sotavento Hotel & Yacht Club in the Zona Hotelera. It cost $50 a night but was worth it as I only had to cross the road to get to the beach. 

My 3 month Central American adventure had come to an end and it was time to head home. A fascinating, amazing, and sometimes frustrating trip, Central America has given me a lifetime’s worth of memories and I will be back again someday.

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Itinerary 1 month backpacking in colombia, visiting the osa peninsula, costa rica solo on a budget, how to travel from san jose to bahia drake, osa peninsula on a budget, this post has 3 comments.

Hi Lydia, Thanks for posting such a detailed itinerary. I will be travelling a similar route later this year. If you’re comfortable sharing this, I am wondering what was your overall cost for the 3 months of travel?

Great article! I am planning three months in Central America starting lat November – just booked my ticket to Cancun and will roughly follow your route. I have been to Costa Rica and Panama before but will visit different parts of those countries – have also been to Mexico several times but never to the Yucatan so looking forward to that as well. Instead of exiting from Cancun though I will fly out of Mexico City as I have never been there and have had increasingly positive reviews.

Thanks Brian! Hope you have a great trip! Central America is a great place to visit. I would also have liked to visit Mexico City, but it was much cheaper for me to book a return flight to Cancun

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Around the world traveling for 3 months.

My friend wanted to do a big traveling around the world and asked me if I wanted to join. So of course I said yes and spent about 6 months planning the trip with her and quit my 7-year job. It was a scary and nerve-wrecking move, but I don’t regret it. We did 3 months around-the-world traveling together, mainly in the Asia region, and then my friend continued on later to do 3 more months.  

WHERE WE WENT

Here’s the locations we decided on for the 3-month period: New Zealand, Australia, Indonesia, Singapore, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, China, Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea. The locations were chosen based on friends who we wanted to visit and on how we can move through the globe on a one-way flow, and also of course places we’ve always wanted to visit as a kid. We looked at the weather for each location and eventually decided on starting from New Zealand and working our way west into the other countries.

PLANNING THE TRIP

In general, here’s how we went about planning the trip: we came up with a list of the top locations we wanted to visit, which were New Zealand, Singapore, China, Thailand, Cambodia, Japan and South Korea. Some were where our friends were located and some were destinations we really wanted to visit. Looking at where those countries were located, we then researched into the nearby countries for anything famous or interesting to us. At the same time, on a calendar we marked the amount of time we estimated we would want to stay for each location. We used Google doc to document everything, and google calendar to mark our locations. It’s nice because you can share the calendar and doc with your friends and family.

Here was our global itinerary:

#1. New Zealand – A location well known for amazing scenery. There was a flight deal from Los Angeles to Zealand through Hawaii, so we did that. I actually liked the 1 night stopover at Hawaii as it broke up the flight time.

#2. Sydney, Australia – Since Australia is on the way towards the west that we were heading, and it wasn’t expensive to go from New Zealand to Australia, we decided to stop for 2 days at Sydney.

#3. Indonesia – I wanted to visit Bali so we made this a stop. We stayed a few days here and then a few days in Yogyakarta , which is where the biggest buddha temple in the world is located – Borobudur temple.

#4. Singapore – I have a relative living here so we took this opportunity to visit.

#5. Siem Reap, Cambodia – We wanted to see the famous Angkor Wat, so we spent about a week here.

#6. Luang Prabang, Laos – Laos was close by and found this UNESCO town that seemed interesting. We also went on a 2-Day slow boat cruise on the Mekong River that was super nice.

#7. Thailand – There was a friend we wanted to visit, some cool temples to see, and tried a meditation retreat here. There’s really so many things to do and see in Thailand .

#8. Chongqing, China – There was a friend in Chongqing so we visited here.

#9. Taiwan – Taiwan is one of the islands on the east coast of China. Since we decided to go to Korea and Japan, we might as well also visit Taiwan lol.

#10. Japan – A place I’ve always wanted to visit as a kid 🙂

#11. South Korea – I’m a big fan of Korean dramas so South Korea was a must visit! Also visiting a friend here.

#12. Shanghai & Beijing, China – We came back into China and ended at Beijing. This is a big air hub so flight prices usually are cheaper than others for international flights back home. I ended up resting for about a month in China and went on a mini trip to Yunan, China which was really nice.

WHAT I LEARNED AFTER TRAVELING

The best thing to have when traveling internationally is know someone who’s a local there and can show you around the area, that’s why visiting international friends is such a good idea lol. Lessons that I’ve learned regarding long term traveling is #1 to slow down. We were on a time limit and had so many places that we wanted to visit that for a lot of the locations we only stayed a few days. It’s really hard on the body when you have to move all your stuff so often, even if you don’t have that much stuff to carry around. What would be good is to at least put in 1 extra day to each location where you can just relax, or put in some resting locations in between those busily scheduled ones.

Overall it was a great trip, and I’ve learned many things from traveling. One phenomenon that you’ll experience once you’re back home and made more apparent is the feeling like you’re not living in the normal routines of the general society. The 9-5pm workday and same week-by-week routines seems a bit foreign. After a while though, it becomes normal again.

Check out what essential items I packed with me for the long term around the world trip, or visit the Resources page to see what tools and resources I used for traveling.

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Global Gallivanting

The ultimate backpacking india itinerary & travel route.

As India is such a vast and diverse country deciding on your itinerary for backpacking India is no easy task!  Unlike South East Asia there’s not really a defined India backpacking route.

I’ve travelled all over India many times during the 10 years I’ve lived here, so in this post I’ll give you all my tips for the best places to visit in India, the best India travel routes and the ultimate backpacking India itinerary.

The Ultimate Backpacking India Itinerary and Travel Route

Why i love backpacking india.

One of the best things about backpacking India is the amazing diversity of this sub continent – from snow capped Himalayan mountains to tropical beaches, from lanquid backwaters to chaotic cites and desert forts. India really does have it all – there is so much to see, amazing food, welcoming people and it’s still one of the cheapest places to travel in the world .

It’s difficult to decide on your India itinerary or backpacking route because there’s just so many amazing places to visit and this huge country sometimes feels like many different countries, especially as the languages, food and culture differs in each state. You could travel around India for a lifetime and see something new and fascinating every day.

As the birthplace of yoga, India is also one of the best places in the world to learn authentic yoga and one of the cheapest places to get your yoga teacher certification. Many backpackers choose to combine yoga training with traveling around India .   Rishikesh is the ‘yoga capital of the world’ but there are also many other places to do yoga teacher training in India .

Let’s be honest though, backpacking India is not a walk in the park, especially for first time visitors or solo female travellers. The distances are huge, the chaos, culture shock and hassle can sometimes be overwhelming and traveling here can be challenging and frustrating sometimes.

But it’s worth it!  India is the ultimate travel destination! That’s why many people return again and again to spend many months at a time backpacking India.

How to Plan your India Itinerary

I know that one of the joys of backpacking is having no plans and just going with the flow. But when backpacking in India it’s really worth doing planning your travel route or itinerary in advance . This is because the best way to travel in India is by train but the trains get fully booked well in advance.

So if you plan your India itinerary you can get your trains booked in and have a smoother trip – pre booking accommodation and tours will also help you to avoid scams.

In this post I’ll give you my complete India backpacking route, as well as some suggestions for alternatives if you only have a couple of weeks. But first some essential tips you’ll need to plan your trip to India.

Essential Tips for Backpacking in India

Best time to backpack india.

I ndia has alot of different climates but generally the best time to visit India is the cooler winter months between Oct/November – March/April. However, the mountains can be pretty cold then but offer a welcome respite from the summer heat. In April and May the country gets very hot until the monsoon season arrives from June – September.

What you pack for backpacking India depends on the season that you are traveling and the places you will be visiting. See all my tips for what to wear in India in my packing list.

India backpacking budget

India is quickly modernising but budget minded backpackers can still get by on about 2,000 INR ($25) per day ( more here on costs of backpacking India )

Visas for India

Nearly all visitors need to apply for a visa before entering India . Many nationalities can now get an e-tourist visa online or evisa so it’s never been easier to visit India! Indian tourist visas can be valid for up to 1 year (but normally only allow 90 – 180 days continuous stay depending on your nationality.) Make sure you go to the official indianvisaonline.gov.in website to get your visa.

Read this post for all the info you need and a complete guide on how to apply. 

Getting to India

Most international flights arrive in Delhi (DEL) or Mumbai (BOM) but there are many airports in India. As the capital of India, Delhi is a popular place to start a backpacking trip and gives you easy access to Rajasthan and the Golden Triangle travel route which contains some of India’s most famous sites like Agra, home to the Taj Mahal, and Jaipur.

If you’re nervous about backpacking in India then I advise taking a connecting domestic flight and starting your trip in South India, somewhere like Kerala or Goa for a calmer introduction to India. I’ll explain this more later on.

Getting around India

India is huge and getting around takes time. My top tip for first time backpackers in India  is to take it slow and plan a rough itinerary beforehand ! India is not a place to rush around; trying to see too much will end up in a stressful instead of enjoyable trip.

Flights, trains, buses and rickshaws reach every corner of the country. The huge Indian Railways network is the best and most comfortable way to travel around India and can be a really interesting experience in itself . Trains get fully booked way in advance which is why I advise planning your India itinerary before. Luckily nowadays you can easily book transport in India online with 12GoAsia.com.

Tourists can sometimes get ‘taktal’ or train tickets at late notice at the office upstairs in the New Delhi Railway Station.

See here for my ultimate guide to train travel in India (including how to book train tickets from abroad. )

Backpacker accommodation in India

There are cheap, basic, guesthouses in most tourist destinations in India, but make sure you read the reviews thoroughly or inspect the rooms first to check for cleanliness and quality. Expect to pay around 500 INR per night for a basic room but don’t expect luxuries like soft beds, hot water or WIFI.

There’s also plenty of upmarket accommodation in India. If you fancy staying in a real Rajasthani palace or fort there are some spectacular experiences to be had that won’t break the bank. Booking.com has the best range of accommodation for all budgets with reviews and easy booking options.

Over the last couple of years fun, sociable, new Indian backpacker hostels have opened up in the main cities and tourist destinations. The best backpacker hostel chains in India are Zostel, Moustache, The Hosteller, Madpackers and GoStops. You can find hostels, check the reviews and book online on Hostelworld .

Most backpacker hostels in India offer comfy common areas or rooftop terraces where you can meet other backpackers, and often have WIFI, a cafe and will help you with travel and sightseeing arrangements. Most hostels offer private rooms as well as dorms – normally female only, male only and mixed dorms.

Check out my Ultimate List of the Best Backpacker Hostels in India.

Volunteering in India

India is an amazing country for backpackers and budget travellers but there are still many poor communities who could really do with your help. Instead of paying 1000’s to volunteer sign up with Worldpackers and you can exchange your skills and time for free accommodation, food and many other benefits.

One of the best things about volunteering in India is that you can get immersed into the local culture, make friends with the locals, learn new skills all while helping those in need and saving yourself money so you can travel for longer.

I prefer Worldpackers over other platforms as they offer great support and customer service, all hosts are verified to ensure they offer a safe and rewarding experience and you can also take advantage of the Worldpacker’s insurance should anything go wrong with your host.

Click on this link and use my discount code GLOBALGALLIVANTING to save $20 on the membership fee.

Read more about volunteering for free with Worldpackers here. 

India backpacker tours

If you don’t want to go it alone, or just prefer to take a tour and have someone else to do all the planning and organizing (and I don’t blame you, India can be a challenging country to backpack or travel independently in) Especially if your a solo female travellers then it’s a good idea to join a tour.

But, as with everything in India, you’ve got to be careful to thoroughly vet the tour provider to make sure you have a good and safe experience. One of the best places to find tours and check the reviews is Tour Radar.   

The most encompassing India backpacking tour is this   37 day Iconic India tour with Intrepid which takes in most of the places I recommend. The G Adventures North to South India 21 day backpacker tour is also good.

If you have less time the most popular short India travel route is the Golden Triangle which is perfect for a 1 week India itinerary. It’s also the most chaotic part of India so I recommend taking a tour like this Golden Triangle tour with YOLO Travels if it’s your first time. For more of my recommendations here are my favourite India tours . 

Sightseeing trips and day tours

You can also now book day tours online in advance on Viator and Get Your Guide. I recommend doing this as you can read the reviews to ensure you have a good and safe experience and you can avoid having to haggle for a fair price or getting scammed.

Backpacker hostels also often have a travel desk and can help you make travel and tour arrangements with reputable companies they trust.

Never trust anyone in Delhi who says they will take you to a tourist office – there are loads of fake ones and scammers. The only official one is at 88 Janpath.

If you don’t want to take tour but want some help to plan your India itinerary, book trains, accommodation or even private drivers (which are quite affordable in India) then I recommend using the excellent trip planning services of India Someday .

I’ve known the team for years and they are great. I used then to make me a bespoke itinerary across North India ( check out my review here ) and they offer Global Gallivanting readers 5% off if you use the code GLOBALGALLIVANTING5 when enquiring.

Read More: I travel with the Lonely Planet India Guidebook – its really useful for practical info, maps, things to do, how to get around etc. Buy it before you go on Amazon to save money.

How long do you need for backpacking India

As it’s such a huge and diverse country backpacking around India takes time. If you want to see as much as you can and follow this India itinerary and backpacking route then I would recommend to come for 2 or 3 months .

If you only have a couple of weeks to backpack India then I would concentrate on one area. Think about what you are interested in – if it’s history, temples, forts and palaces backpack Rajasthan and the Golden Triangle in North India. Or if you prefer beaches, nature and wildlife head to Kerala and Goa and backpack South India.

My Perfect Backpacking India Itinerary and Route

Now that you have all the info you need to plan your India trip I’ll describe the ultimate backpacking India itinerary for those who want to see all the highlights of this unique country.

I’ll also provide some suggestions for a 1 month India itinerary, a 2 week India itinerary and a 1 week India itinerary afterwards.

Here’s a route map of the best places to go in India to help you get your bearings and plan your perfect backpacking India itinerary:

India backpacking route map

Why I recommend this India itinerary

While most India itineraries will suggest starting your trip in Delhi and seeing the famous sights of the Golden Triangle, for your first time in India I recommend starting in more chilled out South India and working your way to North India.

This way you’ll get a good variety of destinations including all the famous sights while avoiding extra distance or going back on yourself (it always takes longer than you think to get anywhere in India!)

Most international flights land in Delhi or Mumbai but you can easily get a domestic flight down to Kochi or Trivandrum in Kerala or to Goa airport.

While Rajasthan and the Golden Triangle are home to some amazing and iconic sights including opulent forts and of course the Taj Mahal , its also the most chaotic, dirty and challenging places to visit in India.

The laid back beaches and backwaters of Kerala and Goa are perfect places to get a good introduction to India to allow you to get acclimatized before tackling the big sights and chaotic cities in the North.

Or, if you visit India in the summer from April – September head to the Himalayan mountains in North India to places like Rishikesh and Dharamshala that also offer a much more chilled out Indian experience.

Read on for my complete India itinerary and I’ll explain each destination, why go, what to see and do, where to stay and how to get there.

Kerala – 1 week

Fly into  Kerala  and start your India itinerary gently in laid back Kerala – a tropical and luscious state known as ‘God’s own country.’ 

Kerala is one of the most beautiful states in India with so much to explore that you could easily spend a week traveling around Kochi, Alleppey, Varkala and Munnar.

But if you’re short on time or want to make life easier for yourself you could base yourself in Fort Cochin and take day trips to visit the surrounding areas.

Best places to visit and things to do when backpacking Kerala

• See the Chinese fishing nets and explore the multicultural history on a heritage walking tour of Fort Cochin  
• Take a fun private tuk tuk tour around Kochi and Mattancherry.
• Enjoy a relaxing backwater cruise in a houseboat, or explore the narrower canals and local villages on a more budget friendly  traditional boat tour along the backwaters.
• Laze on tropical beaches like Varkala and Kovalam.
• Try a yoga class or healing Ayurveda retreat.
• Spot wild elephants and enjoy the lush tropical nature in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Soak up the gorgeous, green views of the tea plantations at Munnar hill station.

Best backpacker hostel in Kerala:  GoStops Kochi

The best backpacker hostel in Fort Cochin is GoStops Kochi – a colourful hostel in a heritage building in the best location in Fort Cochin complete with views across the water. There are both private rooms and shared dormitories available as well as plenty of cosy common areas where you can meet other backpackers.

How to get to Kerala

Kochi (Cochin) and Trivandrum (Thiruananthapuram) both have train stations and airports that have some international flights and are also well connected to the rest of India with domestic flights.

The train station for Kochi is called Ernakulam from where you can catch trains up the coast to Goa. But for the complete India itinerary continue into the neighbouring and relatively underrated state of Karnataka. It’s a large and diverse state with everything from modern mega cities to ancient ruins and palaces as well as rolling hills, jungles, tiger reserves, quintessential countryside life and beaches to explore.

How to get around Kerala

The coastal side of Kerala is well connected by trains but to reach places in the hills like Munnar or Periyar you can take local or delux buses. Even hiring a car and driver in India isn’t too expensive.

More blog posts on backpacking Kerala:

• A Backpacker’s Guide to Kerala
• Why Kerala is the Perfect Introduction to India.
• Houseboat Heaven! Cruising the Backwaters of Kerala
• How to Cruise the Kerala Backwaters on a Budget
• 12 of the Best Backpacker Hostels in Kerala

Mysore – 2 or 3 days

Mysore   (Mysuru) is one of South India’s most popular and flamboyant destinations, famous for it’s glittering royal heritage, magnificent monuments, colourful bazaars, the elaborate Mysore Palace and Ashtanga yoga.

Best backpacker hostel in Mysore:  RoamBay Hostel

A colourful, eco friendly, heritage house in a peaceful and safe neighbourhood that was recently turned into an amazing hostel with stylish, comfortable dorm rooms and a coworking space.

How to get to Mysore

You can take an overnight delux bus from Kochi to Mysore, or you could break up the journey roughly halfway and cool off in the hill station of Ooty  (Udhagamandalam)   before heading to Mysore.

More blog posts on backpacking Mysore:

• A Backpacker’s Guide to Mysore
• Photo essay of Mysore’s Devaraja market

Bangalore – 1 or 2 days

Bangalore (Bengaluru) is   India’s silicon city and IT hub where you can indulge in the delights of modern India, get your fix of Western food, malls and nightlife. There’s a few nice parks and a palace here too and it’s also a good transport hub but if your short on time you could probably leave it off your Indian itinerary.

Best backpacker hostel in Bangalore:  Locul Midtown Indiranagar

Accommodation in Bangalore can be quite expensive but the Locul hostels are new, clean, smart and well located hostels. My favourite is Locul midtown Indiranagar because of it’s location in this trendy district close to all the eateries and nightlife. There are dorms, private rooms, good wifi and work spaces and a great breakfast.

How to get to Bangalore

Bangalore is an easy 3 hour train or bus ride from Mysore. Bangalore also has an airport with frequent and reasonably priced connections to other parts of India.

More blog posts on Bangalore:

• 10 Things to do in Bangalore
• A day in my life volunteering in Bangalore

Hampi – 4 days

Hampi is one of the most magical backpacker destinations in India. A surreal and beautiful boulder strewn scenery surrounds the captivating ancient temples and ruins of the once great Vijayanagara Empire.

There’s a big backpacker scene here with cute, rustic huts on ‘hippie island’ with views over the river and the chance to see some out of this world landscapes and idyllic Indian countryside life.

Hampi is one of my all time favourite places and a highlight of backpacking India – don’t miss it from your India itinerary!

Best backpacker hostel in Hampi:  Gopi Guesthouse

There aren’t any backpacker hostels in Hampi but there’s huts on hippie island and some cheap guesthouses in Hampi bazaar – one of the best is Gopi Guest House near to the temple (be aware that no meat or alcohol are served on this side of the river.)

How to get to Hampi

The easiest and quickest way to get to Hampi from Bangalore or Goa is by overnight bus.

More Hampi blog posts: Why I fell in love with magical Hampi

Goa – 1 week

Another place you might find hard to leave and won’t want to leave off your India itinerary are the lively beaches of Goa . With an infectious, easy going way of life, unique Portuguese influenced culture and wild nightlife Goa in unlike anywhere else in India.

Goa is the most relaxed and most westernised state in India with the best nightlife, a vibrant and cosmopolitan food scene and is a great place to meet other travellers. If you can tear yourself away from the beaches and parties you’ll find there’s plenty of churches, forts, waterfalls, spice plantations and colourful hippie markets to explore in Goa.

Goa’s beaches all have a different vibe. North Goa is where all the parties and markets are whereas South Goa is the place to head for peaceful beaches and yoga retreats. The most popular with backpackers are the lively, hippy beaches of Anjuna and Arambol in North Goa and Palolem,  a beautiful beach with colourful rustic beach huts in the far south.

Best backpacker hostel in Goa:  Woke Morjim

A beautiful, new, backpacker hostel with a swimming pool, gardens close to trendy Morjim beaches and all the nightlife spots in North Goa. Dorm beds and private rooms are available, some rooms have balconies with sea views and there’s a trendy cafe bar downstairs.

How to get to Goa

There are flights to Goa from all over India. If you’re coming from Hampi you can take an overnight bus to Goa or take an 8 hour train in the daytime.

If you want a quieter alternative to Goa, check out the beaches of the temple town of Gokarna , a few hours South of Goa in neighbouring Karnataka.

More Goa blog posts:

• My Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Goa
• The Perfect Itinerary for 1 week in North Goa
• Top 10 Backpacker Hostels in Goa
• A guide to deciding where to stay in Goa
• The best yoga retreats in Goa
• The ultimate guide to yoga teacher training in Goa

Mumbai (Bombay) – 3 or 4 days

Mumbai was previously called Bombay but many people still call it by the old name. Bombay is India’s biggest, most buzzing and aspirational city – home of Bollywood and some atmospheric, crumbling colonial architecture.

Mumbai is my favourite city in India. It’s an exciting, dynamic city of dreams and contrasts with so much to do and see and shouldn’t be left off any India itinerary.

Best backpacker hostel in Mumbai:  Backpacker Cowies

Mumbai has some of the most expensive accommodation in India. The best option location wise is Backpacker Cowies as it’s the only one so close to the Gateway of India and Colaba Causeway. Air conditioned dormitories and private rooms are available.

How to get to Mumbai

Goa to Mumbai is a 12 hour overnight train or bus. The flight from Goa to Mumbai takes only a hour and you can find prices from only 1,000 rupees so it’s worth checking the flight price before you get on the long bus ride.

More blog posts on Mumbai:

• A Backpacker’s Guide to Mumbai
• 21 Things to do in Mumbai
• How visiting Dharavi Slum changed my perceptions on poverty

Ellora and Ajantha Caves – 3 days

Break up the journey between Mumbai and Rajasthan by checking out the awe inspiring Unesco listed  Ellora and Ajanta Caves  near Aurangabad.

These caves are one of the largest rock-cut monastery-temple caves complexes in the world with amazing ancient Buddhist carvings and sculptures.

There are not many hotels near the caves so Aurangabad, the closest town to the caves makes a convenient base.

Best backpacker hostel in Aurangabad:  Zostel Aurangabad

Lively, modern chain backpacker hostel with colourful lounges, cafe and rooftop. It’s located near to the bus station so is convenient for visiting the caves. Choose between private rooms or dorm beds.

How to get to Aurangabad

Aurangabad is about 6 hours on the train from Mumbai, 5 hours in a taxi or about 11 hours on a public bus. From Aurangabad you can get a bus to the caves but it’s more convenient to hire a taxi to between the two cave sites. It’s about 2 hours drive from Ellora to Ajanta.

Rajasthan is possibly India’s most flamboyant state and a highlight of most India backpacker trips. With so many ancient forts, extravagant palaces, colourful bazaars and interesting history there is a lot to explore here so don’t even think about leaving Rajasthan off your India itinerary!

Udaipur – 3 or 4 days

If you’re coming from the south of India and working your way north then the first stop when backpacking Rajasthan should be the relaxing and charming city of Udaipur , a romantic city of shimmering lakes and glittering palaces, your first stop in Rajasthan.

Best backpacker hostel in Udaipur:  Dreamyard Hostel

Dorms and private rooms located inside a heritage building by the lakeside. The highlight of this hostel is the stunning views over the lake from the rooftop – they even offer free chai at sunset and host yoga classes and parties on the rooftop.

How to get to Udaipur

You can get an overnight train over bus from either Mumbai or Aurangabad to Udaipur. You might even be able to find a good deal on a flight between Mumbai and Udaipur.

Jodhpur – 2 or 3 days

After chilled out Udaipur head to the Blue City of  Jodphur   and see the mighty Mehrangarh Fort and explore the old city – a tangle of medieval winding streets, blue coloured buildings and bazaars.

Best backpacker hostel in Jodhpur:  Moustache Jodhpur

The Jodhpur branch of the popular Moustache chain of Indian backpacker hostels won the HOSCARs in 2020 and is regarded as one of the very best hostels in India.

Moustache is located close to the Mehrangarh Fort and the blue city and spacious common areas, homely vibes, an inhouse theatre and restaurant and comfortable dorms and private rooms.

How to get there to Jodhpur

Buses from Udaipur to Jodphur take about 7 hours or a taxi takes only 4 hours.

Jaisalmer – 3 or 4 days

Jaisalmer is a little out of the way but this historic golden fort rising out of the desert is quite a sight. Spend a few days exploring the fort and a day or 2 taking a safari across the Thar desert.

Jaisalmer is really popular for camel safaris but Bikaner is another good choice, if you don’t have time to get to Jaisalmer or are looking for something a little less touristy.

Best backpacker hostel in Jaisalmer :  Moustache Hostel  

Situated in a beautiful heritage haveli this hostel feels more like a palace! Located right next to Jaisalmer Fort with beautiful private rooms, dormitories and even tents to choose from. A highlight is the stunning rooftop cafe .  They also arrange a great desert safari trip.

How to get to Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer is 6 hours on the train from Jodhpur.

Pushkar – 3 days

The small but charming holy lakeside town of Pushkar  is quite a bewitching and magical place with good shopping that is a popular place for backpackers to relax.

If you come in October/November try to time your visit the the amazing spectacle of the Pushkar camel fair .

Best backpacker hostel in Pushkar: Madpackers Pushkar

This beautiful property full of traditional art, 3 terraces and plenty of social areas and activities was voted India’s best backpacker hostel in 2019. Choose from dormitories or private rooms and then enjoy the rooftop cafe, friendly vibes and super helpful staff.

How to get to Pushkar

From Jaislamer take an overnight train to Ajmer Junction, from there its a 15 min bus or taxi ride to Pushkar.

The Golden Triangle – 9 days

The Golden Triangle consists of the capital Delhi, Agra and Jaipur and is one of India’s most visited routes as it contains some of the most famous sights in India.

You could rush round the Golden Triangle in 4 or 5 days but it’s always better to take your time as there’s alot to see here but also alot of hassle.

Jaipur – 3 days

Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and known as ‘the Pink City’ home to the extravagant Jaipur City Palace, the honeycombed Hawa Mahal and the impressive Amber Fort.

Ranthambore National Park is not too far from Jaipur and is the best place in India to spot a tiger in the wild!

Best backpacker hostel in Jaipur: Moustache Jaipur

With a refreshing plunge pool and cafe on the rooftop, plenty of sociable hang out areas, stylish private rooms and dormitories complete with privacy curtains, its easy to see why this hostel is one of the most popular in Jaipur.

How to get to Jaipur

Jaipur is only a 2 hour train journey from Ajmer Junction (the closest train station to Pushkar) and has good connections to Agra and Delhi too.

Agra – 2 or 3 days

Agra is home to the most beautiful building the world – the Taj Mahal , a sight you simply can’t leave off your India itinerary.

You can visit the Taj on a day trip like this from Delhi but Agra has so much to offer. It is also home to Agra Fort and the nearby ruined city of Fatephur Sikri which are both also UNESCO world heritage sites and well worth exploring so it’s worth staying a few nights in Agra. That way you can also see the sunrise at the Taj Mahal – the most magical time.

Best backpacker hostel in Agra: Joey’s Hostel Agra

Located so close to the Taj Mahal that you can enjoy great views of the famous monument from the rooftop cafe bar. Private rooms and dorms are simple but clean with all modern amenities including air conditioning and the staff are friendly and helpful.

How to get to Agra

Agra is only about 4 hours on the train from Jaipur.

More blog posts about backpacking Agra:

• My Agra Travel Guide
• Does the Taj Mahal live up the hype?

New Delhi – 3 or 4 days

New Delhi,  usually just referred to as Delhi, is India’s capital city. Delhi has a lot of history as well as being a city hurtling into the 21st century. Don’t miss visiting the Red Fort , the Jama Masjid, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutb Minar, Chandni Chowk, India Gate and the Akshardam Temple.

Many backpackers travel through this megacity as quickly as possible, sometimes spending only one day in Delhi , as it can an overwhelming city. This is a shame because there is so much to see and do in India’s capital and it takes a while to adjust to the culture shock.

Best backpacker hostel in New Delhi

I have to give you two choices here. Traditionally most backpacker and budget accommodation in Delhi is situated in the Paharganj area near New Delhi railway station. Zostel Delhi is a good option here as it’s super close to the train station.

Paharganj and Old Delhi are fascinating places and close to many of Delhi’s attractions, but, especially if it’s your first time in India or your a solo female traveller, I wouldn’t advise staying here. It’s pretty dirty and chaotic and there are alot of scammers around.

Staying in the suburbs of South Delhi will show you a whole other side to the city and is where I prefer to stay. Several cool, new backpacker hostels have opened giving budget travellers a chance to rest in a more peaceful and safer environment. The Hosteller is a delux new hostel with a resturant and close to the metro station so you can still get around the city easily to see the sights.

How to get to Delhi

There is a new fast train that gets you from Agra to Delhi in 3 hours. Once in Delhi make use of the new, modern and efficient Delhi metro – it can get to most attractions without having to haggle with a rickshaw driver.

From Delhi you could either travel east to visit the holy city of Varanasi, or west and visit Amritsar or head up to the Himalayas and Rishikesh.

More blog posts on backpacking Delhi

• Things to do in Delhi
• How to avoid the scams and survive your first time in Delhi.
• 8 of the best backpacker hostels in Delhi 

The Himalayas – 2 to 3 weeks

If time allows, and if it’s warm enough, add the Himalaya mountains to your India itinerary!

From Delhi go west to visit the amazing Golden Temple in Amritsar and watch the spectacle of the Pakistan border ceremony.

If it’s warm enough then from Amritsar you could continue up into the Himalayan mountains in Himachal Pradesh – one of the best places to backpack in India.

Visit  Dharamsala (home of the Dalai Lama and Tibet government in exile, Manali, Parvati Valley and  Shimla –  the queen of the hill stations and the Summer capital of India during the times of the British Raj.

In July and August the weather is warm enough to head up to lovely Leh and Ladakh .

Read my Mountains itinerary here and my Leh and Ladakh itinerary here.

On your way looping back to Delhi don’t miss Rishikesh   the yoga capital of the world situated on a gorgeous stretch of the holy river Ganges.

When you get back to Delhi take an overnight train east bound to visit the holy city of Varanasi , one of the world’s most spiritual cites on the holy river Ganges.

Watching all the rituals of life and death played out by the river at sunrise is an unforgettable and essential Indian experience.  Stops Hostel    near Assi Ghat is the best Varanasi hostel.

There is a reason why I put Delhi and Varanasi at the end of this India itinerary – visiting these big, busy cities could be too overwhelming to enjoy at the start of your trip, plus there are a lot of touts and scammers but, once acclimatized to backpacking India, they are some of the most fascinating places to visit in India.

Other places to visit

If you’re looking for something a bit more off the beaten track try Tamil Nadu in South India.

Fly into Chennai (Madras) and after exploring the city head south. Just a few hours from Chennai is the seaside temple town of Mahabalipuram that is popular with backpackers, the French city of Pondicherry and nearby alternative ‘utopian’ community of Auroville.

Tamil Nadu is all about temples and the best is the Mennakashi temple in Madurai which you could swing by on the way over to Kerala. Check out more on the places to visit in Tamil Nadu.

India has plenty of cheap, direct flights to neighbouring countries like Nepal, Sri Lanka and the Maldives that you could easily add to a backpacking trip around South Asia!

Most people think the Maldives is only for expensive honeymoons but it’s possible to backpack the Maldives too! See all my tips for traveling the Maldives on a budget here!

I hope this post has given you plenty of inspiration and tips for planning your India backpacking trip.

Starting in somewhere like Kerala will gently ease a first time visitor into this incredible country and following this itinerary will give you a good range of sights and activities without doubling back on yourself too much.

Of course there are still many, many more places to see in India, it would take a lifetime to see them all, but I think this would be the perfect India itinerary for a 2 to 3 month backpacking trip. 

Shorter India itineraries

India is a huge country and I know that not everyone has a couple of months to spend backpacking India. So, as promised, here are some suggestions if you only have a month or a couple of weeks to spend traveling India.

Ideas for 1 month India itinerary

If you have 1 month to backpack India you can still see alot. One idea if for a 1 month India itinerary is to split this route up and concentrate on either North India or South India.

For example, travel from Kerala up to Mumbai, or from Mumbai through Rajasthan to Delhi. If you’re visiting in the summer then fly into Delhi and travel around the Himalayas and avoid the heat.

My ideal itinerary to see the best of both north and south in only 1 month would be:

Get acclimatised to India by backpacking in laidback and luscious Kerala and Goa. Spend a few days in buzzing Mumbai before heading to Rajasthan.

Soak up the romantic lakeside vibes of Udaipur, explore the blue city of Jodhpur, chill out in charming Pushkar and then do the Golden Triangle route to see the sights of Jaipur, Agra and the Taj Mahal and New Delhi.

Then head over to Amritsar to marvel at the amazing Golden Temple , travel along the foothills of the Himalayan mountains to practice yoga in Rishikesh and then witness the rituals of life and death on the Ganges in scared Varanasi!

Ideas for a 2 week India itinerary

To make the most of 2 weeks in India you should either focus on exploring one region. Or, as both regions offer very different experiences making it hard to choose, take some domestic flights to get a taste for both north and south.

Use the first part of this India itinerary and visit Kerala, Mysore, Hampi and Goa. If forts and palaces are more your things then explore Rajasthan cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur and Pushkar and take a quick trip to Agra to see the Taj!

For example, when my Mum came to India she wanted a combination of relaxing beach time, history, culture, rural life and big city buzz so I devised a diverse, hassle free 2 week trip to Goa, Hampi and Mumbai. 

This is how to see the highlights in 2 weeks:

Start in by relaxing on the tropical beaches and backwaters in either Kerala or Goa , then fly up to Jaipur and tour the Golden Triangle visiting Agra for the Taj Mahal and New Delhi.

Ideas for a 1 week India itinerary

1 week really isn’t much time for somewhere like India, but hey it’s better than nothing! My top tip would be don’t try to do too much. With only 1 week to spend in India just concentrate on visiting 1 state.

The Golden Triangle is the most popular short India travel route. It’s great because you’ll get to see alot of incredible things in a short period of time but it can be a bit hectic and overwhelming.

If it’s your first time in India and you only have 1 week then I recommend exploring either Kerala or Goa or taking a tour of the Golden Triangle like this YOLO Travels Golden Triangle Tour   to ensure that you have a memorable experience (for all the right reasons!) and are left wanting to come back again to see more!

How to see India without the hassles

Unfortunately backpackers need to be aware that when traveling in India you’re likely to encounter alot of scams. Whether you have a short time and want to see as much as you can with minimum hassle, or perhaps if you’re a solo traveller or nervous about traveling India for the first time, taking a tour or hiring a private driver could be a good idea.

Self drive car rental isn’t common and I don’t recommend it as India’s roads can be pretty crazy, but hiring a private driver isn’t that expensive in India and ensures you get to your destination in comfort without any hassle. For a reputable driver get in touch with trip planners  India Someday.

A small group tour can also be quite affordable. If you pick the right tour then you will share the experience with like minded people so you won’t feel alone. You can find all sorts of India tours, and read reviews from previous guests, at Tour Radar. Taking a tour will also maximize your time available so you can see as much as possible. You’ll also be able to avoid wasting precious time getting lost, scammed or planning your next move.

For more of my recommendations here are my favourite India tours . 

I hope this post helps you plan an amazing itinerary for backpacking India!

Check out more of my India travel tips and blog posts like:

• My Top 10 Tips for your First Time Traveling in India
• How to Prepare for a Trip to India 
• 11 Tips for Women Traveling in India
• How to get an Indian Visa 
• Backpacking in India: How much does it cost? 

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Hi Anna, this couldn’t have come at a more perfect time. We fly to Kerala at the end of October to begin 6 months travelling in India. Planning a route, even in the vaguest sense has proved really challenging though I’m pleased that what we have mapped out is near identical to your suggested itinerary. Can’t wait!

It’s not easy deciding where to go is it! I really glad this helped you!! I hope you have a great time in India. 🙂

Wow, nearly exactly what I did! Only have a month here. Started out in Kerala and worked my way up to Karnataka, Goa, Aurangabad/Ellora Caves, and Mumbai. We CouchSurfed a lot on the trip and met some incredible people. If I were to do it again, I would have skipped Gokarna and went straight to Goa after Hampi. It depends on each person, but three nights in Goa was more than enough for me. I can go somewhere else for nice beaches but India has so much more to offer that is unique to this country.

Definitely, definitely coming back to tackle the north next time. The south really is a perfect introduction to India. Totally safe and easy to travel. I’m not ready to leave!

That’s great! So glad you enjoyed your trip 🙂

Definitely one of my favourite countries. And Hampi is magical. I would not leave out Hyderabad for world’s best biryani though. If I could afford to visit India again, I’d love to go to Assam and Rajashtan.

Definitely I have to visit India in the future!

So glad you liked the post! Yes, India is an incredible place to travel and I think everyone should visit at least once – it can be life changing! 🙂

Nice photos , which camera you use please ?

Thanks! India is a photographer’s paradise 🙂 I actually left the DSLR at home this time and now I travel with a Panasonic Lumix TZ70 compact camera as it’s so much lighter to carry around but still has all the options and manual shooting settings of a professional camera. I wrote more about the best compact cameras for travel photography here – http://www.global-gallivanting.com/the-best-compact-cameras-for-travel-photography/

Hi. Thanks for this great article. This is pretty much the route myself and my daughter (who is 17) are taking for our 6 month trip in India. Except we are heading up to Rishikesh and Manali after Agra. The question is, do you think it may be a good idea to budget for a flight from Goa straight to udaipur? I feel it would save a lot of time and it really is quite a gruelling journey by land (done it many times) Flights are pretty reasonable too. I know its cheating a little bit but there are many wonderful overland journeys to do once your up north. Your thoughts?

Hey thanks so much! Yes, including Rishikesh and Himachal is a great idea and yes, I actually fly quite a lot in India these days as it can take a long time to get around and flights can be quite reasonable. It’s a shame to miss Mumbai though, I really like it there but Udaipur is nicer and flying is a good idea when time is tight. Hope you enjoy your trip and glad my post helped! 🙂

thank you so much for the article love and gratitude to you 🙂 🙂 🙂

Thanks so much! Glad you liked it and hope it helps! Happy Travels 🙂

I think I like the way this route is I’m currently traveling Southeast Asia for three months and I plan to spend the rest of my time in India. I’m planning to head over there by the end of September have to go back home in November so roughly i have 2 months to spend. Deserts and Safari is something I really want to do and I love the wild life the camel tour is a must for me. And the Taj Mahal is a must see when you go to Indian

I would probably be flying from Vietnam. I will be in Cambodia tomorrow for like a week then spend some time in Vietnam before heading to India

How can I get a cheap fligh ticket

Hey Felix, glad you liked the post – sounds like your going to have a great trip. When I fly between India and Southeast Asia I usually take Air Asia from Kuala Lumpur as its usually the cheapest option if your flying to South India there are quite a few cheap flight options and flights to KL from the rest of Southeast Asia are usually cheap. Hope this helps 🙂

Great article, definitely will be my main guide to my planed trip to India. What’s the best months to visit India if I plan to visit 3 or even 6 months? Thanks!

Hey Carl, Thanks, glad you liked the post. The best time to travel in most of India is the winter – Oct – March when its cooler so better for sightseeing.

Ok great thanks and yes I think I will fly from Kuala Lumpur. I was planning to go to Vietnam but with visa changes for us I will go from Cambodia to Kuala Lumpur now spend a few days there then off to India by the 27 of September

Sounds great, KL is a good cheap flight hub – easy to get anywhere from there

One more thing how do I go on applying for a visa

I wrote a long post about applying for an Indian visa here http://www.global-gallivanting.com/how-to-apply-for-an-indian-visa-for-uk-citizens/ but bear in mind it is from the view point of UK citizens, maybe the requirements are different for citizens of other countries. Hope it helps

Hi Anna, brilliant article found it very helpful in planning my own itinerary. I was just wondering on any advice about travelling by train as i heard tickets on sleeper trains sell out very quickly?

Hi Freddie! Glad you liked it and glad it was useful for you. Yes, I think traveling by train is the best way to see India but the trains do get booked up so its a good idea to book tickets in advance although this can be a bit complicated – I have a big 3 part series of posts on booking trains in India. Hopefully that helps you 🙂 Happy Travels 🙂 http://www.global-gallivanting.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-train-travel-in-india-part-1-how-to-book-train-tickets-in-india/

I came across your website accidentally, and boy, I’m glad I did. You are a WEALTH of information. In your Indian Itinerary, which is brilliant by the way, you left out the North East completely. The richness of the Northeast of India cannot be found anywhere else in India. Check out Kaziranga, tea gardens of Assam, camping in the wild in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram, Tawang etc etc. You will be mesmerised. Hope you can make it to that part of India someday. Good luck 🙂

Thanks for stopping by – it’s so nice to hear that my tips are useful!

I’ve actually visited the North East twice and love it! I went to monasteries in Tawang, saw rhinos at Kaziranga, celebrated tribal festivals and met headhunters! You can read more about my time in the North East here – http://www.global-gallivanting.com/category/india-2/north-east-india/

However, as it can be difficult to arrange permits and transportation for some places I didn’t put it in this post – this is kind of a starter for the must see places for a first time trip to India – of course there is loads more to see, it would take a lifetime to see it all. There’s still alot I want to see in North East!

Thanks so much for your tips 🙂

Hey, Did you travel India alone? I was wondering if you have any tips for a girl traveling alone.

Also, would you recommend any spiritual places?

Yes I travel alone – I’ve written a big post about it here http://www.global-gallivanting.com/safety-tips-for-women-traveling-in-india/ Hope this helps 🙂 What sort of spiritual practice are you looking for? There are lots of spiritual places in India – all very different…

Hi interesting and informative articles,I am thinking of travelling more or less the route you suggest but starting Delhi and heading south, apart from the culture shock of Delhi first, any other reasons for going south to north? Many thanks for all the tips and advice.

Hi David, glad you liked the articles – the reason I suggest to start in Kerala is mainly to minimize the culture shock and challenges of traveling in India for first timers but of course there’s no reason why you couldn’t start in Delhi and work your way down South. In fact, some people who start their trip in Kerala or Goa like it so much that they get stuck there for the whole trip! Hope you have a good trip whichever way you decide to go 🙂

In the middle of planning a RTW trip and love this itinerary. Plan to be in India for 60 day e-visa though so have to shuffle some things around. Is the below route too ambitious?

Mid November fly to Kochi

Alleppey-Kochi-Ooty one week Mysore-Hampi one week South Goa-North Goa one week Mumbai-Aurangabad one week

Fly to Varanasi

Varanasi-Agra-Jaipur one week Udaipur-Jodhpur one week Jaisalmer-Bikaner one week Amritsar-Delhi one week

Hi Thomas, your route and timing seems ok but it’s always better to take it slower if in doubt – it’s not enjoyable to rush India. Hope you have a good trip 🙂

Certainly, you have rendered very good information for the keen visitors who want to experience this wonderland.

Thanks Amrita 🙂

I am currently in Munnar, looking to get to Mysore but stuck at a bit of a loss of how to get there.

Would the best option be an AC bus; that would take about 8 and a half hours from Kochi. (Maybe stay for one night in Kochi again to break up the journey from Munnar)?

Hey Richard, hope you’re enjoying Kerala. Yes, it’s best to go back to Kochi it will be easy for you to get a decent bus there to Mysore. I think it’s always best to take it slow and try to not to cram too much in so spending a night in Kochi is a good idea while you sort out the bus. There are lots of cheap and fun hostels there too http://www.global-gallivanting.com/the-best-backpacker-hostels-in-kerala/ Happy travels 🙂

Hello Anna,

This information is very helpful! I am planning a 4 month trip with my brother, we have not traveled like this before so thank you for all the info. One thing which may be hard to answer, I realise its a sliding scale but how much would you budget in broad terms for the 3 month trip above?

Hi Liam, glad you found it useful 🙂 You can backpack India for 1000 Rupees a day but expect to spend more if you like nicer hotel rooms, ac transport and eat Western food. I would budget for at least 40,000 Rupees. I wrote some more posts about the cost of traveling India that you might find useful – http://www.global-gallivanting.com/the-average-daily-budget-for-backpacking-in-india/ and http://www.global-gallivanting.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-backpack-in-india/ Hope you have a great trip! 🙂

I have roughly 10 weeks in India but I am restricted to flying in and out of Delhi. Do you think it could be a good idea to do the golden triangle and then fly down to Kochi from Delhi or somewhere up there and then follow the itinerary you have (which I love btw) back up. Based on your estimated days I might even be able to fit a little time up further north doing a Himalayan loop. What do you think?

I will be travelling by myself as an experienced male traveller, but never to India.

Cheers Jake

Hi Jake. Glad you liked it – the reasons why I saw do Kerala first is because its less hassle than the golden triangle but you could do it whatever way you feel and it depends on how fast you like to travel and what time of year if you want to do the Himalayas too but with 10 weeks you should have enough time for most of it if you travel quite quickly and don’t get stuck in somewhere like Goa for a couple of weeks which is what seems to happen to many backpackers. Hope you have a great trip 🙂

Hi Anna I have been following your blog for a long time, and we have finally decided to come out to India . We were about aprehensive as we slightly older single ladies so we were going to take a tour but who knew you could be to old for one backpacking tour and to young for another 😀 , so coming across your suggested route has inspired us with a bit more confidence coupled with the fact we met two very sassy ladies from Bombay yesterday we are going to go it alone My questions arewe will be starting beginning of August in Kerala ( as we are in Srilanka till end of July ) so traveling in the monsoon is it going to be possible to get around easy , as low season etc ? And do you have any idea if you have to have an outward flight to get in as we wanted to cross into Nepal in October by land.

Ps how much is a chai latte fee for your very helpful blog 😉

Hi Allanah. So sorry for my delay in replying, I only just saw your comment! 🙁

I’m so glad to hear that you are feeling inspired to visit India and Sri Lanka. That’s kind of funny about the tour but good that you are feeling confident enough to go it alone and its easy to get local tours or hire a car and driver along the way if you don’t want to take the bus all the time and want a bit more comfort.

In August monsoon may make it a little more difficult to travel so allow a bit more time but everything will be green and lush.

Regarding the outbound flight, it depends what visa you have – if you have an e visa I think you are required to have an outbound ticket when you arrive but many people cross into Nepal overland so you can just explain thats what you are doing and it might be OK not to have one.

And feel free to donate whatever you feel my advice has been worth 🙂 sorry for taking so long to respond – I hope you have a great trip!

Hey Anna! Thank you so much for this guide, it is very helpful for someone who is planning his first trip ever to India like me. I am still unsure about when exactly I will find time to travel to India. From what I’ve read so far, the best time to go is November until February but I might not find time then. Are the summer months not at all a good time to travel India in your opinion? I was thinking to do the first part of your itinerary (Kerala to Bombay) in the summer months next year, probably July/august. Do you think it would still be a good time to go? Best wishes

Hey Oliver glad you liked the article – to be honest June- August are the monsoon months and I wouldn’t really recommend traveling India at that time – heck out these posts about traveling India in monsoon for more – http://www.global-gallivanting.com/where-to-travel-in-july-and-august-to-avoid-monsoon-in-india/ http://www.global-gallivanting.com/the-pros-and-cons-of-visiting-goa-in-monsoon-season/

The article is perfect. I love it

Thank you 🙂

Your article has planted a seed in my find that continues to grow!!! a one month trip very quickly has become three now!

just a quick question on climate. the best time of me to travel next year is end of feb to end of may. travelling from south to north do i miss most of the extreme heat/monsoon over that period? i am australian so heats is ok for me although i imagine northwestern australia is a much dryer heat than i would experience over there. thankyou again for your article, now i just have the dubious task of saving and counting down the days haha

So glad to hear that your feeling inspired to visit India and yeah, you def need more than 1 month theres so much to see and its such a diverse and fascinating country!

Feb and March are great times to travel in India. April and May are getting a bit hot and humid and by June the monsoon rains start. However, Feb can even be a bit chilly in North India. To make the most of the weather I would start in South India in Feb, March will be good for Rajasthan and in April and May head up to the mountains – places like Dharamshala, Manali etc thats the ideal time to go there.

Hope you have a great trip!

Hi Anna, I am just in awe of you posts. You have quite the flair for writing! Question for you about traveling in December. I’m thinking about a one-month trip, so either the southern route or the northern route. 1. Is an AC train really necessary this time of year? 2. Do overnight sleepers need to be booked as soon as the tickets open – so 120 days prior? 3. Do you think other logistics like train and accommodations need to be booked very early? I prefer to just take it a day at a time so I am not constrained if something more interesting comes up, but I’ve heard the high season is just too busy to not book early. Thank you in advance for your help.

Hi Aaron I am also fascinated after watching that how passionate you are about your dream traveling…..so, i am inspired from you. Such a beautiful itinerary you posted above. thanks to you keep up the good one. I also created something curious about India checkout it plzz……thanku http://worldswonderfulplaces.com/best-places-to-visit-in-india/

Thanks Rajat 🙂

Welcome Anna….are you Indian

Hi Anna, thanks so much for this inspiration of a route. We’ll be doing roughly the same but in reverse in March Here’s our blog about why: https://pitttraveling.wordpress.com/2017/11/06/1-year-on/

Awesome! Glad you found it useful 🙂 Hope you have a great time

Hi Anna!! Thank you SOOO much for all of this information and for linking everything throughout the article–it was super helpful. I’m going to India for a 200 hour yoga teacher training for the month of May. My plan as of current is to get there a week early and fly into Delhi. Check out some stuff around there, then take the fast train to Agra for the Taj and some other sites, and then train to Rishikesh for my training. I will only have about a month, maybe 6 weeks after my training to do traveling. I’m wondering what you think would be best? After reading about Hampi, I know its a place I MUST go as well as Goa! I’m curious what you think the best travel ways would be?

Thank you so much in advance!

Thank you Anna for writing so well about my country. Hope you visit again n again 🙂

Thank you! I love India – I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve visited now! 🙂

This is very nicely done recommendation. The Jaipur-Agra-Delhi-Varanasi route are especially essential. I’d really love to check out the Northern India though, so with limited time, I’d probably aim for something along this line Amritsar-Srinagar-Leh-Delhi-Varanasi-Agra-Udaipur-Jodhpur-Jaipur since there are direct flights between Amritsar/Jaipur and Singapore where I’m based at.

You are not just a good writer but a wonderful photographer too. Hope someday you will like to write for us too.

Thanks so much!

wow I think this blog just saved my life, I would have had to research for hours otherwise to find all this information. BLESS YOU

Thanks so much! Happy to hear that its helped you. Enjoy your India trip! 🙂

Where is north east? India isn’t complete without northeast..

Hi, I didn’t put North East on this post because you need permits and its off the typical tourist trail for most first time India visitors but I have been twice and written many posts about this amazing place https://www.global-gallivanting.com/category/india-2/north-east-india/

Absolutely amazing guide on traveling India! So much useful information to use on a trip visiting this marvellous country! I will definately be using some of your advice 🙂

Thanks Niclas! Glad its been useful for you 🙂

Hello, I am planning a RTW trip and this itinerary is AMAZING. I’ve looked through several and this one is the most helpful and I believe is best for someone who has limited time to visit India but still capture the highlights. I have a few questions haha so please bear with me for this long comment. I am a solo female traveler, but don’t have too much experience YET. Do you think this route would be safe for me? About how quick would someone be able to go through this itinerary but still enjoy it? Also, about how much would this trip cost for a backpacker on a budget? Again thank you for this itinerary.. its awesome!

Hi Alexandra

Glad you liked my itinerary. You could probably do it in 2 months but it would be a rush and India is stressful when you rush. 3 months would be better.

India is a challenging place to travel – especially for solo females – its best if you have travelled some other places first like Southeast Asia although nothing can ever really prepare you for India but I’ve been traveling and living here for years now and don’t feel unsafe as long as I’m sensible. Read my tips for women traveling in India – https://www.global-gallivanting.com/safety-tips-for-women-traveling-in-india/ https://www.global-gallivanting.com/my-experience-and-tips-for-backpacking-india-alone-as-a-solo-female-traveler/

My budget and costs posts might help you too https://www.global-gallivanting.com/the-average-daily-budget-for-backpacking-in-india/ https://www.global-gallivanting.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-backpack-in-india/ A good backpacker budget for a month in India is £400 – £500 so for 3 months £1500 should be plenty.

Would you happen to know if there is a spot in this route or along the way where I would be able to find a spot for Vipassana meditation, or the 10 days of silence and meditation? Thank you

Hi, there are lots of places for meditation in India (check this post for yoga and meditation https://www.global-gallivanting.com/best-yoga-meditation-retreats-india/ ) There is also a popular Vipassana center in Jaipur http://www.dhamma.org/en/schedules/schthali Hope you have a good trip! 🙂

Hey Anna, looks like you really explored India. Very detailed guide you have out there 🙂 I am glad you went beyond the touristy ‘Golden Triangle’. Next time plan to visit the North East of India. The Seven sister states are absolutely mesmerizing. For the spiritual side of India, consider visiting Varanasi and for architectural marvels the Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh.

Thanks Richa 🙂 Yes I’ve been to North East India twice now its such an amazing, unexplored and unique region. You can check out my NE India posts here – https://www.global-gallivanting.com/category/india-2/north-east-india/ . Varanasi is one of the most fascinating places too and I’ve spent alot of time there – https://www.global-gallivanting.com/essential-varanasi-travel-guide-best-places-visit-eat-stay/ . I’ve also been to MP a few times as well and Khajuraho twice https://www.global-gallivanting.com/khajuraho-travel-guide-best-places-visit-eat-stay/ and loved it but I didn’t include it on this itinerary as its a bit out of the way – its so hard to decide on the perfect itinerary as there are so many places to see in India that it would really take a lifetime to see it all.

Thank you so so much Anna for sharing this. I am planning to get to India solo the end of this year but I was feeling overwhelmed by the thought of planning as there is just so much to see and do! This looks like such a great route, your saved me so much time! Thank you again x

Thanks Lauren – awesome to hear this! Yes, its hard to decide where to go in India! I’ve got lots of India travel tips on my blog – I hope they are helpful and hope you have a good trip. 🙂

Great article, it’s important to show both sides of India one where locals are more than safe and you have to have your guard just as up as anywhere and at the same time it can be intimidating. I think in terms of getting value for your money India is right up there 🙂

https://indiasomeday.com/en/article/backpacking-in-india/

That’s a perfect post for someone new in India. Bookmarking it right now. So it be helpful later.

Thanks so much 🙂 glad it’s helpful

Even helpful for Indians too.

Thanks Anna

Thanks! glad its helping Indian’s discover their own country – its one of the most amazing places on earth after all! Happy Travels 🙂

This is an amazing piece of information. It is best to call it as a online travel guide meant for India. I loved the travel options !!

Thanks Sumita! Glad you liked it! 🙂

Nice blog. You share a grateful information about travel in India. Thanks!

You are never ready for India. But the good thing is, India is always ready for you, Amazing.

Excellent quote! Love it – totally agree 🙂

Thank you so much for this great post

I regularly read your blog and you put useful information.

Thank you very much for sharing your experience with us.

Really very nice post, Thanks for sharing this information with us.

Thank you so much for sharing an amazing blog with us.

Thanks for a wonderful review, Anna! I shall definitely consider going to some of these places (though I might draw a limit on the backpacking!) Oh, as of today (12 March 2020) India has suspended all visas until 15 April (amy be extended) due to the Covid-19. FYI https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/coronavirus-impact-visas-to-india-suspended-till-april-15-2193382?pfrom=home-topscroll

Thanks for sharing the info helps me a lot in curating the places to visit, will surely visit the following places listed in the blog. The itinerary is very elaborative which gives a very detailed picture of how to plan a perfect trip. Thanks

Really very nice post, Thanks for sharing this information with us. I really Impressed to read this article it’s really helpful for all Indian travellers

This a significant fascinating site page I should say. Some stunning article with incredible data.

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Helpful Article.

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