Our Guide to the Best Places for Family Travel in Southeast Asia

Discover the wild side of Southeast Asia as your family looks for orangutans and pygmy elephants in the jungles of Borneo. You can also spot Komodo dragons in the Komodo Islands and thriving marine life in the waters around Sumba.

Borneo: Orangutans in Danum Valley and Sandakan

In Borneo, experienced guides will help your family observe orangutans and understand more about the conservation work protecting these remarkable primates. You’ll travel by private 4WD to Sandakan and the Danum Valley, exploring rainforest trails. Look out for more of Borneo’s extraordinary wildlife, including rare pygmy elephants, gibbons, hornbills and clouded leopards.

Seeing elephants in Thailand is an unforgettable experience. Surrounded by the mountainous scenery of Chiang Rai, your family can learn about these gentle giants and observe them in a responsible, respectful setting. We’ll pair you with guides and organisations that prioritise the wellbeing of the elephants, helping ensure your experience has a positive impact on them and the environment. Pa Sak Tong is one of the places we recommend in the region, with a private elephant sanctuary where elephants roam freely.

Set sail for a family expedition to the home of the indigenous Komodo dragon. Between exhilarating island stops, you’ll unwind on world-class vessels like the Alexa or Silolona. Walking tours of Komodo and Rinca Island are required to be led by a ranger, and you must keep a safe distance from the dragons at all times. While very young children can usually join boat excursions, the walks are best left to children over the age of five.

Sumba is a brilliant place for families who love the ocean. Expect clear waters, surf breaks and marine life close to shore. We especially recommend Cap Karoso, a relaxed eco-conscious lodge with plenty for the whole family to enjoy. You can try surfing, scuba diving, stand-up paddleboarding or head out in search of dolphins. One of the highlights in this area is learning about sea turtles and the conservation work helping to protect them.

Southeast Asia offers plenty of active ways fro families to explore together. You can navigate the emerald waters of Krabi by sea kayak, trek the volcanic slopes of Java or go quad biking through rural Siem Reap. There are thrilling ways for every member of your group to experience the region’s natural beauty.

Cambodia: Quad biking in Siem Reap

Quad biking through the Cambodian countryside brings plenty of fun to your family’s time in rural Siem Reap. You’ll pass villages, farmland and quiet tracks, giving you a closer look at daily life beyond the temples. Your private guide will explain what you’re seeing along the way, including how rice is grown and harvested, and why many rural homes are built on stilts.

In Java, drive through plantations and rainforest on the slopes of Mount Ijen. Hike to the crater rim for views across the volcanic landscape, one of our favourite ways to experience the island’s volcanic scenery. You can also explore Borobudur temple and spend time in the surrounding villages with your private guide.

With its own airport, Krabi is a perfect destination for families. We suggest staying at Rayavadee, where the beach is just a few steps away and there are plenty of family-friendly activities on land and water. These include sea kayaking through mangrove forest, private rock climbing, nature trails to waterfalls and scuba diving. You can also take a boat trip to nearby places such as Phi Phi Island or Phang Nga Bay.

Cycling in Laos lets you move slowly enough to notice the details. In northern Oudomxay Province, you can ride along the Nam Phak River, passing Khamu villages, forested hillsides and quiet rural paths. When you’re ready to pause, your guide can introduce you to village life, explaining local building styles, farming routines and food traditions. One of our favourites is a stop in Tad Muan, where you can see how houses are constructed and how traditional meals are prepared.

Explore the railway markets of Bangkok and lose yourself in the rhythm of Balinese dance at a workshop. You might navigate floating markets or visit ancient Hindu temples, with each experience helping all ages connect with the region’s culture.

Thailand: Maeklong railway, Bangkok

Bangkok is full of energy with traditional markets, grand landmarks and food around almost every corner. One of our favourites is the Maeklong Railway Market, also known as the Umbrella Pulldown Market. Here, the train passes directly through the market several times a day and stalls are quickly pulled back as it approaches. While you’re there, you can try local Thai produce and cool down with a fresh coconut.

Experience a private traditional Kecak dance workshop in Bali and step into the world of its culture. The chanting, expressive movement and storytelling make it engaging for younger children and teenagers alike. Afterwards, head to Manggis‘s Pura Besakih, one of Bali’s best temples to visit, set on the slopes of Mount Agung.

In Vietnam with its varied cities and intriguing towns, landscapes and rich traditions, there’s plenty you can do. Travel to Can Tho in the Mekong Delta to visit floating markets and row along quiet waterways. We especially recommend trying pho, Vietnam’s famous noodle soup, before visiting a coconut candy workshop to see how this chewy local sweet is made.

Go beyond the familiar and uncover Southeast Asia’s regional flavours with sizzling street stalls, family-run eateries and markets full of local produce. You might explore Chiang Mai by motorbike, join a hands-on cooking class in Vietnam or taste dishes that reveal more about everyday life across the region.

Vietnam: Food tours in Ho Chi Minh

Food tours are a great way for you and your family to get to know the culinary scene of Vietnam. Explore Ho Chi Minh by foot or motorbike visiting some of the best street vendors, local restaurants and producers with experienced local guides. Look out for boiled quail eggs, green mango, pho, barbecue seafood and beef dishes.

Chiang Mai is one of the best places to try Thai’s food. Our specialist guides can introduce you to local markets, fragrant herbs and regional dishes known mostly by locals. And most of our favourite Thailand hotels offer cooking classes that work well for the whole family. At 137 Pillars Chiang Mai, you can continue the experience with a private chef-led market visit and hands-on Thai cooking in the hotel’s show kitchen.

When it comes to nature-focused travel across Southeast Asia, the best family destinations combine accessible adventure with beautiful scenery. Think relaxing boat trips, countryside cycling and even cave exploring.

Best national parks for families

Komodo National Park is high on the list, especially for its Komodo dragons, stunning pink beaches and exciting boat trips to spot marine wildlife. In Vietnam you can visit the country’s first national park Cuc Phuong National Park and discover the steep mountains and dense forests of Bach Ma National Park. Cambodia’s Southern Cardamom National Park has walks along riverside trails and Phnom Kulen National Park is home to temple ruins and the country’s largest reclining Buddha.

Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s palm-fringed island, has long stretches of sand and calm, clear water. You can stroll along Sao Beach, paddle in the shallows and enjoy an easy day by the sea. In Thailand, Koh Lanta brings a slower pace with family-friendly beaches. And Indonesia’s Banda Islands are ideal for snorkelling among coral reefs and diverse marine life.