• 5-star Bhutan travel experience that exceeded every expectation
• Immersed in nature, people, and meaningful exploration of Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness
• Deep connections with guide ST and driver Phinzo, whose care and local knowledge amplified the journey
• Surprises woven into every day, including thoughtful gifts, personalized planning, and emotional experiences
• Captivating landscapes, Buddhist teachings, and a blend of joy, gratitude, and wonder that transformed the traveler from within

In July 2024, Tanya Manterfield from Cape Town returned from a transformative 10‑day journey through Bhutan with Breathe Bhutan. Her experience, marked by emotional depth, knowledgeable guides, and soul-stirring landscapes, earned a heartfelt 5‑star review. Here is her authentic reflection shared exactly as written:

I am now home in Cape Town and have had 24 hours to reflect on my incredible 10 day trip. It is difficult to say THANK YOU and encapsulate all the emotions of joy, gratitude, and wonder in these two words.

For the longest time, I wanted to experience a place where nature, people, and religion blended effortlessly. I had read so much about Bhutan and it’s GNH. I knew it would be a special place. What I did not know was how much it would change me inside. It exceeded every single expectation I had!! It taught me the value of the simple things in life. It has taught me more than I will ever be able to remember on Buddhism, and it has taught me that being happy enough is better than trying to be happier!

The people of Bhutan have captivated me. The landscape has left me in awe. The Breathe Bhutan team has taken a dream and made it a spectacular reality. Every single one of you made this a trip I will never forget. You have made Bhutan part of me and I want some small part of me to rest there one day. You masterfully planned an itinerary that not only ticks all the major highlights but leaves a few surprises each day to wander over.

Thank you, Kinley (and Tobgay) for taking the time to visit me in Timphu and for the thoughtful gifts. I have worn my t-shirt many times and I know it will lead to conversations about memories I have to share with all. You and your team have taken the time to get to know each person who travels with your company. This is a rare thing.Sonam (ST) and Phinzo. You two are my heroes. You made every single second of the day worthwhile.

ST, you were destined to be my guide! Your incredible knowledge made you my walking encyclopedia. As the days unfolded I found the information more and more valuable. You made every painting inside a temple come to life. Your understanding of the history and the Buddhist religion is something I will always be very very grateful for. A trip to Bhutan would be so insignificant if the knowledge of the guide was not as good as yours! I am already wishing I had recorded you talking about all the beautiful paintings and various sculptures in the temples. I am never going to remember everything! I will miss our quiet walks, where you knew how much silence was important to me, and you left me to stroll (and sometimes huff and puff) in the beautiful surroundings while I got lost in my thoughts. Yo, man, yo…you are a legend!! 😁

Phinzo, my guardian angel driver. Your peaceful way and beautiful soul were perfect. I felt so safe on the long and winding roads. Sometimes only you were able to see the road ahead of us. Your interactions and titbits of knowledge were so special. You always had my best interest at heart and I know you have gained a few bicep muscles from carrying my heavy bag each day! (I will learn to travel lighter when I am very old!) Thank you for looking after me! Thank you for always opening the car door for me, and thank you for taking my muddy shoes off after a hike and helping with my raincoat. Where on earth do I find a gentleman like you in South Africa 😁

I would never hesitate to recommend Breathe Bhutan. In fact, how could a person travel here without connecting with you and planning their trip through you? It would just be silly not to. The accommodation at each stop was beautifully selected. The staff were always ready to receive you and the friendly smiling faces at every hotel/guesthouse were amazing. I am a vegetarian, and the food was always fresh and thoughtful. I have absolutely developed a taste for chili cheese, and who could say no to a veg momo! I will remember each place with fond memories, but for me, Dhumra was a highlight. Punakha Dzong took my breath away! The Phobjikha Valley was just perfect. I’m so glad I did the 10 days, anything less would have done the country an injustice. I would have missed all of the beautiful scenery and walks that the valley had to offer!!I will be back. Breathe Bhutan is the only way to see Bhutan!!