Complete guide to Myanmar

Myanmar, also known as Burma, stretches from the Irrawaddy delta to the Himalayan foothills, spanning nearly 2000 kilometres from south to north. Our team based in Yangon has been crafting itineraries for years that connect the country's four pillars: Yangon and the Shwedagon Pagoda, Bagan and its 2000 red-brick temples, Inle Lake where the Intha fishermen row standing on one leg, and Mandalay, the former royal capital surrounded by the cities of Ava, Sagaing and Amarapura.

Beyond this classic circuit, the country hides regions that remain largely unvisited. Shan State offers two to three-day treks between Kalaw and Inle, at 1300 metres altitude, through Pa-O and Danu villages. The Golden Rock of Kyaiktiyo, balanced for centuries, remains a major Buddhist pilgrimage site. Further south, the Mergui Archipelago stretches 800 islands still pristine in the Andaman Sea. The Chindwin River and Kachin State, meanwhile, require more time and remain reserved for travellers ready to venture off the beaten path.

A first trip requires a minimum of 12 days to experience Yangon, Bagan, Mandalay and Inle at a leisurely pace. Allow 15 to 18 days to add Hpa-an, the Golden Rock or Ngapali Beach. Hervé and our team will guide you based on the season and your interests.