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The Mekong In A Different Way: River Life Adventures

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Duration

11 days

Tour Type

Specific Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

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Overview

Tour Route: Siem Riep – Mekong Delta – Ho Chi Minh City

Start/ End: Siem Riep – Ho Chi Minh City

Experience an enriching Mekong River journey with our latest program aboard the Toum Tiou 2, designed for exploration, cultural immersion, and light activity. Our intimate and charming vessel offers personalized service for small groups seeking an authentic adventure. Our itinerary includes biking, kayaking, sampan rides, and walking tours to discover the Mekong’s hidden treasures, from traditional villages to the stunning Udong Hill.

Additionally, we’ll explore the magnificent Tra Su Forest by motor and rowing boat, showcasing its incredible flora and fauna. Enjoy a balanced blend of cultural immersion and light adventure, all while savoring the authentic Mekong River charm. Tailored for personalized service, cultural exploration, and a touch of adventure, our program is the perfect fit for the Toum Tiou 2, ensuring an unforgettable cruising experience.

This journey is perfect for middle-aged and senior travelers from Europe and America who appreciate culture, authenticity, light activity, and personal comfort. It suits those seeking a balance between cultural discovery and soft adventure, all in an intimate, boutique cruise setting.

Highlights

An ideal blend of cultural immersion and light adventure
Cruise in style aboard the Toum Tiou 2
Explore the legendary temples of Angkor
Experience authentic Mekong river life
Discover the lush beauty of Tra Su Cajuput Forest
Climb the sacred Udong Hill

Itinerary

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Your adventure begins in the enchanting city of Siem Reap, depending on your arrival time. For guests arriving between 6:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., a delicious lunch will be served at the hotel to welcome you to Cambodia. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic boat trip on the tranquil waters of Tonlé Lake. Here, you'll explore the fascinating floating villages, where entire communities live, work, and go to school right on the water, an extraordinary glimpse into a unique way of life that has remained unchanged for generations.

As evening falls, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the vibrant Angkor Night Market, where colorful stalls offer handcrafted souvenirs, local delicacies, and lively entertainment. Later, we’ll gather for a delightful dinner in the city, sampling traditional Khmer cuisine in a charming local restaurant. Your first night will be spent in comfort at a four-star hotel, allowing you to rest and prepare for the incredible journey ahead.

Today is dedicated to the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the greatest archaeological wonders in the world. Begin your full-day excursion at Ta Prohm, famously embraced by towering tree roots, offering a magical, almost surreal atmosphere. Continue on to Angkor Thom, the former capital city of the Khmer Empire, where the mysterious faces of Bayon Temple and the historic remains of the Royal Palace await.

After a delightful lunch, you'll visit Senteurs d’Angkor, a local workshop that produces artisanal products such as spices, handmade soaps, and scented oils, perfect for gifts or souvenirs. In the evening, experience Cambodia’s contemporary creative spirit at Phare, the Cambodian Circus, an electrifying performance combining theater, music, dance, and acrobatics. After a day filled with discovery and wonder, return to your hotel for another restful night in Siem Reap.

This morning, visit the crown jewel of the Angkor complex: Angkor Wat. Renowned as the largest religious monument in the world, this grand temple complex showcases the height of Khmer architecture, with intricate bas-reliefs, soaring towers, and spiritual ambiance. Guided by a knowledgeable local expert, you’ll uncover the stories and symbolism that make Angkor Wat a truly unforgettable experience.

After your morning exploration, you’ll be transferred to the pier to board your elegant river ship, the Toum Tiou 2. Once you’ve comfortably settled into your cabin, meet the crew and fellow travelers during a festive welcome cocktail. Enjoy the warm hospitality and relaxing ambiance as the ship remains docked overnight, giving you time to unwind and look forward to the journey ahead.

Your cruise begins with a morning sail along the scenic Tonlé Sap River toward Kampong Chhnang. Enjoy a leisurely lunch on board while watching riverside life unfold. In the afternoon, disembark to visit this vibrant port town, one of the largest fishing centers on the lake. You’ll explore traditional stilt houses, bustling local markets, and discover how the river shapes daily life in this fascinating region.

For those seeking a touch of adventure, an optional cycling excursion is available. Ride along peaceful riverside paths through lush landscapes to visit a nearby pottery village, where you’ll witness skilled artisans at work, continuing techniques passed down for centuries. Return to the ship for dinner, followed by a relaxing night on board.

After breakfast, journey to Oudong, Cambodia’s former royal capital for over 250 years. Nestled among green hills, the site is dotted with ancient stupas and pagodas that tell the story of Cambodia’s royal past. Visit the Vipassana Dhura Pagoda, a serene Buddhist meditation center located at the foot of the hill, offering insight into local spiritual practices and monastic life.

In the afternoon, explore the exquisite Wat Kampong Tralach Leu pagoda, set in a quiet, rural village. Afterwards, for the more active guest, a guided mountain biking experience is available through the lush countryside. Pedal past golden rice fields, palm trees, and grazing water buffalo for an authentic glimpse into Cambodian rural life. Back on board, begin cruising toward Phnom Penh as the sun sets. In the evening, enjoy a captivating performance of traditional Khmer dance and music, followed by dinner and a peaceful overnight stay on the river.

After breakfast on board, set out to explore the vibrant capital of Phnom Penh, a city where colonial charm blends seamlessly with Khmer tradition. Begin your morning with a guided visit to the Royal Palace, a stunning example of classical Cambodian architecture. This majestic complex remains the official residence of the King and features elegant pavilions, manicured gardens, and golden spires that shimmer in the sunlight. Just next door, the Silver Pagoda will captivate you with its precious Buddha statues and floors paved with over 5,000 silver tiles.

Next, dive deeper into Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage with a visit to the National Museum, home to the world’s finest collection of Khmer art and sculpture. In the afternoon, hop aboard a traditional tuk-tuk for a more personal and immersive experience through the streets of Phnom Penh. You’ll pass colonial buildings, bustling markets, and scenic riverside boulevards, catching glimpses of daily life in the capital. Return to the ship for a relaxing dinner on board. As the sun sets, we begin sailing downstream towards the Vietnamese border, continuing your magical journey along the Mekong River.

Wake up to a new day as the ship arrives at the Vinh Xuong border crossing, where customs procedures are completed for entry into Vietnam. Once formalities are cleared, the journey continues to Chau Doc, a vibrant riverside town nestled at the confluence of the Mekong and Bassac rivers. Known for its cultural diversity and booming fish farming industry, Chau Doc offers a unique window into life on the Vietnamese side of the Mekong.

In the morning, embark on a small boat to explore the lush wetlands and nearby forested areas. Drift through narrow waterways shaded by dense greenery, where you’ll spot exotic birds, water plants, and local fishermen at work. After returning to the ship for lunch, your afternoon adventure awaits: a scenic cable car ride to the summit of Sam Mountain. From this vantage point, soak in panoramic views of the countryside, dotted with rice paddies, temples, and tranquil villages. As the day winds down, the ship continues cruising toward Sa Dec, with dinner served on board and another peaceful night spent along the river.

After breakfast on board, board a local boat for a panoramic tour of Sa Dec, a peaceful riverside town made famous by French writer Marguerite Duras. Stroll through the lively Sa Dec market, located along the riverbank, where vendors display colorful arrays of produce, spices, flowers, and local delicacies. It’s a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the daily rhythm of life in the Mekong Delta.

Continue cruising towards Cai Be, a charming town known for its floating markets and artisanal traditions. Disembark to explore a local craft village, where skilled artisans demonstrate how they produce rice paper, coconut candy, and other local specialties using time-honored methods. From there, glide through lush canals to reach a tropical fruit orchard, where you can taste exotic fruits like rambutan, guava, longan, jackfruit, and durian. Sip hot tea and enjoy a live traditional music performance in this serene garden setting. Afterward, head to a riverside restaurant for a hands-on Vietnamese cooking class followed by a delicious lunch. After a short rest, join an optional kayaking adventure through the calm backwaters. Return to the ship as we set sail toward My Tho. Enjoy dinner on board and another restful night on the Mekong.

In the morning, a local boat will take you to Thoi Son Island, a tranquil retreat near My Tho. Walk through local villages, observe traditional life, and sample seasonal tropical fruits in a lush garden setting. This authentic encounter offers a close-up look at the agricultural heart of the Mekong Delta. After the excursion, return to the ship for lunch as we cruise along the spectacular Cho Gao Canal.

The Cho Gao Canal is a hidden gem—bustling with river life, fishing boats, and cargo barges yet surrounded by green landscapes and small settlements. It’s a remarkable experience and an exclusive route offered by very few cruise lines. In the late afternoon, we arrive in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). After dinner on board, join our optional "Saigon After Dark" experience: a part-night excursion, part street food adventure from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. You’ll ride through the city by motorbike or tuk-tuk, sampling local delicacies at hidden gems and ending the evening at a vibrant live music venue. Return to the ship for your overnight stay in the heart of the city.

Begin your day with a delicious breakfast on board before heading out for a guided city tour of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s bustling cultural and commercial hub. Explore key landmarks and experience the blend of French colonial charm and modern-day energy that defines the city. Return to the ship for lunch and a brief rest.

In the afternoon, dive into the vibrant spirit of Chinatown (Cho Lon), where narrow alleys, incense-filled temples, and traditional medicine shops create a captivating cultural tapestry. Visit the Giac Lam Pagoda, the oldest in the city, steeped in history and spiritual significance. Finish with a short walking tour of the Flower Market and Binh Tay Market, a sensory journey through colorful blooms, fresh produce, and local specialties. Return to the ship to enjoy a farewell cocktail with your fellow travelers, followed by a special farewell dinner. The ship will remain docked overnight, offering a final restful evening on board.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board as your unforgettable journey along the Mekong River draws to a close. After disembarkation, we’ll take you on a final cultural stop at the powerful and thought-provoking War Remnants Museum, which offers insight into Vietnam’s complex modern history through impactful exhibitions and stories.

Following the visit, enjoy one last delicious lunch at a local restaurant, where you can reflect on the incredible experiences and friendships made during your journey. We’ll bid you farewell around 2:00 p.m., with transfers arranged to the airport. For flight planning, please ensure your departure is scheduled after 5:00 p.m. to allow for a smooth and unhurried conclusion to your Mekong River adventure.

Included/Excluded

First-class services
Accommodations
Transfer transportation
Entrance fees
Meals
Local tour guides

International flights, port dues (if levied), laundry
Visa costs
Fuel surcharges (see terms and conditions)
Beverages except local mineral water, jugged coffee, teas & tisanes
Tips to tour guides, local guides, bus drivers, boat operators and cyclo drivers.

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