Southeast Asia Gap Adventure

Gap Adventure: Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand (10 weeks)

Discover the history and culture of Southeast Asia

At a glance

Jump into this transformational 10-week adventure through Southeast Asia with Projects Abroad.

Explore Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand as you’re guided off the beaten path into a thrilling blend of history, nature, culture, adrenaline, and relaxation.

Witness the delicate balance between ancient civilisations and full-throttle modernisation as you blend travel between epic monuments and bustling modern cities.

Download your detailed itinerary or keep scrolling for the highlights:

  • Explore Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ho Chi Minh City, Angkor Wat, Bangkok, and more!
  • Visit tombs, temples, markets, museums, islands, and monuments
  • Get hands-on and contribute to wildlife conservation efforts en route
  • Learn Muay Thai, Khmer Boxing, Tai Chi, and traditional arts and dancing
  • Snorkel, row, cruise, kayak, and raft through rivers, bays, and rapids
  • Hike through lush jungle, cycle through rice paddies, and unwind on pristine beaches
  • Recentre with a soul-soothing three-day meditation retreat
  • Stay in a mix of hostels, lodges, hotels, and homestays
  • Programme Leaders to support you every step of the way

Start Dates: 

Throughout the year

See Dates

Minimum Duration: 

Ten Weeks

Age: 

17-24

Your journey

Vietnam

Your journey begins in the heart of Vietnam, Hanoi, where you'll spend three days exploring the city and bonding with your fellow travellers. Immerse yourselves in the local culture by visiting the vibrant night market, enjoying a traditional puppet show, and discovering the city's historical districts.

Next, venture into the picturesque mountains of Mai Chau before cruising through the breathtaking scenery of Ha Long Bay. Continue your exploration by bus to Ninh Binh, followed by captivating tours of Hue and Hoi An.

On days 21 to 24, embrace the thrill of a self-guided adventure to Ho Chi Minh City, fully supported by your new friends and our team. From there, a scenic boat trip through the Mekong Delta will lead you to Cambodia.

Cambodia

Uncover the wonders of Cambodia over three and a half weeks, starting in the bustling capital, Phnom Penh. Delve deeper into Cambodian culture with a visit to Oudong and a working monastery. Then, escape to the tranquil paradise of Koh Rong, a remote tropical island where you can unwind and recharge.

Your Cambodian journey continues with bus trips to Kampot and Kep, followed by a return to Phnom Penh for a day of enriching learning experiences. Next, paddle through the scenic waterways of Kratie before venturing further down the Mekong River to the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat in Siem Reap.

Bid farewell to Cambodia with an unforgettable off-the-beaten-path jungle trek, encountering ancient ruins, meeting local villagers, and learning essential bushcraft skills.

Thailand

Cross the border into Thailand on Day 53, where you'll spend the final 17 days of your adventure exploring this vibrant country. Start with three days in the bustling metropolis of Bangkok, then travel to the cultural hub of Chiang Mai. Here, you'll discover ancient crafts and traditions and visit an ethical elephant sanctuary.

Experience the thrill of white-water rafting before finding inner peace during a three-day meditation retreat. Next, take an overnight train to the historic ruins of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Your journey culminates on the idyllic island of Koh Tao, where you'll snorkel in crystal-clear waters and reflect on your transformative 10-week Southeast Asian adventure.

What makes our Gap Programmes so special?

They are the perfect blend of adrenaline, exploration, and meaningful connection. We pride ourselves on our ability to deliver authentic, unforgettable experiences – with safety, support, and the freedom to explore.

Each programme contains our Gap Components, the DNA of our philosophy around transformational travel. 

Components focus on five essential aspects:

  • Adventure — outdoor activities that boost confidence
  • Community — make a positive impact, and develop real connections through relationships
  • Exploration — go off-grid, embrace nature and build resilience through new experiences
  • People & Planet — learn about global issues, local responses, and different cultures
  • Transformation — personal growth, new skills, and self-discovery

For more information, read What are Gap Components?

When you apply you only pay £195, which comes off the total price. Flexible payment options, fundraising advice, and scholarships available.

Looking to do more than one project? Get discounted prices when you combine projects or destinations!

Please choose a Duration and Start Date to continue.

Why Projects Abroad?

With over 30 years of experience connecting people with purpose, we’re no strangers to the transformational power of travel.

We believe for transformation to take place, your experience must be authentic. Likewise, the best experiences unfold where there is a real connection to other people, places, and the planet. And, when done well, travel benefits everyone involved.

Our global network means we have the two things to give you the experience, security, and connection you crave — local experts and local knowledge.

Of course, we know the sights, and you’ll see these. But you’ll be more than a tourist. You’ll be immersed in a local culture and way of life — so you won’t just see the world, you will feel it too.

  • Relax, we’ve got this — we handle the planning so you can focus on the fun stuff
  • Budget-friendly — honest pricing means no nasty surprises. Accommodation, activities, meals… all included
  • More than just photos — return with new friends and unlock a whole new outlook, passion and perspective on this planet you call home.

FAQs


What’s included?

The cost of your trip covers everything except your flights, visa(s), insurance, and spending money.

You'll get:

  • Picked up from the airport, and taken back again when it's time to go home.
  • Three meals a day.
  • Accommodation.
  • All advertised activities.
  • 24/7 support in destination(s).
  • Regular social events, excursions, and workshop activities.
  • Visa support and advice.
  • Full induction and orientation by experienced staff upon arrival.
  • A minimum of at least two Programme Leaders with you during your trip.

For a full list, read What's included in the price?


How do I pay?

All that is needed to secure your place on any Gap Programme, Gap Project, or Global Gap Year is:

  1. Pay a £195 deposit today.
  2. This deposit is taken off the final balance of payment for your trip.
  3. The remaining balance is due to be paid three months before you travel.

You can choose how much, and when to pay, up to three months before your start date.

This means you have complete flexibility to save up or pay in instalments at a time that suits you. 

There is no interest, no credit, and no fees. You are in total control.

Read Payments Made Easy for more information.


What are Gap Components?

Our Gap Components are the DNA of our philosophy around transformational travel.

Each Gap Program contains five essential components:

Adventure

Leave your comfort zone in the dust! We're talking hiking epic trails, rafting down rapids, dune buggies, and ziplining through incredible landscapes. This is more than just an adrenaline rush. These adventures are designed to build your confidence, strengthen those friendships, and give you life skills that will stay with you long after you unpack your bags.

Community

Ready to make a difference? Get involved and give back to the incredible places you'll visit. Roll up your sleeves and join beach cleanups, help protect endangered forests and wildlife, or teach, build, and lend a hand in local communities. You'll learn about giving back, see the world through a whole new lens, and leave a positive footprint, wherever you tread.

Exploration

Time to go wild! Picture camping under the stars, spotting rare animals, trekking into the remote wilderness, and experiencing life in a homestay. It won't always be easy, but that's the point. These programs are designed to build your resilience and ignite your sense of adventure. You'll push your limits, ditch the digital world, and stretch yourself further than you ever thought possible.

People & Planet

Ready to go beyond sightseeing? Dive headfirst into the real issues facing our planet, learn from local experts, and immerse yourself in vibrant communities. Get hands-on, open your heart, and experience different cultures for yourself. These programs will shake up your perspective, inspire you to act, and help you understand your own place in this awesome, interconnected world.

Transformation

This gap year is your chance to invest in yourself. Homestays, workshops, excursions… These aren't just activities; they're stepping stones to uncovering what makes you tick, setting goals, and building the skills that will help you become the best version of yourself. Think boosted confidence, newfound independence, and a global mindset that'll open doors down the road.

Unlock the power of the Project Expert

Complete the form below to connect to your dedicated Project Expert who can answer any questions about Gap Adventures.

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