Trek to the Last Village

One of National Geographic Traveler's 50 Tours of a Lifetime 2012! Hike beyond the last village in extreme northern Burma to the base of the easternmost Himalayas. This  active nature and cultural hiking exploration of wilderness trails and remote villages takes you into a sparsely-populated, but very welcoming remote valley. Far from the famous tourist sites of Mandalay and Bagan, this trip will take you deep into the Lisu and Rawan tribal hill country north of Putao, in Kachin State, at the base of the Himalayas. Only recently opened to foreigners, this area is famous for its snow-capped mountains, colorful tribal traditions, and rich natural history, including many rare animals and birds. You will be hiking through forests, remote villages, valleys, and foothills, and staying in local guest houses significantly upgraded to host Western visitors. There is no camping involved. All of Burma is legendary for great hospitality, and this area in particular offers special opportunities for exploration and cross-cultural learning. You will travel in the company of extraordinary local English-speaking guides who will give you insight into local cultures and offer great knowledge of the features and natural history of the terrain through which you will travel. January, although cool, is the best weather month in this area. Our first trip in January 2011 encountered no precipitation or weather delays.

Once Upon a Time in Rangoon...Kishan's Story