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Legends of Indochina: A Grand Cruise through Cambodia and Vietnam

0/5
Duration

14 days

Tour Type

Specific Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

___

Overview

Tour Route: Siem Reap ➝ Tonlé Sap ➝ Koh Chen ➝ Phnom Penh ➝ Mekong Delta ➝ Ho Chi Minh City ➝ Hanoi ➝ Halong Bay

Start/ End: Siem Riep – Ha Noi

Discover the heart and soul of Southeast Asia on this 14-day journey that blends the mystique of ancient temples, the serenity of the Mekong River, and the vibrant energy of Vietnam’s cities. Perfectly designed for culturally curious travelers—especially mature adults and seniors—this tour offers a balance of immersive experiences, comfortable accommodations, and leisurely-paced exploration by both land and water.

You’ll begin in Siem Reap, Cambodia, exploring the floating villages of Tonlé Sap and the breathtaking ruins of Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, and Angkor Thom. Then, board your luxury river cruise to glide through the Mekong’s timeless landscapes, visiting artisan villages, temples, and colonial towns. Cross into southern Vietnam, uncovering the charm of the Mekong Delta, the French-influenced allure of Saigon, and the historical depths of the Cu Chi Tunnels.

Continue north with visits to Hanoi’s Old Quarter and the final highlight: a majestic overnight cruise on Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Who This Tour is For:

  • Mature travelers seeking a comprehensive and comfortable exploration of Cambodia and Vietnam
  • Culturally engaged visitors who enjoy slow travel, river cruising, and local interaction
  • Guests who appreciate UNESCO World Heritage Sites, authentic cuisine, and history-rich destinations

Highlights

  • Angkor Wat and the Temples of Angkor – a timeless wonder of the world
  • Luxury Mekong River Cruise – intimate access to riverside villages and floating markets
  • Authentic Cultural Encounters – Khmer dancing, rural handicrafts, and traditional cuisine
  • Vibrant Cities – from Phnom Penh’s royal heritage to Hanoi’s colonial charm and Saigon’s energy
  • Halong Bay Overnight Cruise – sail among limestone islands and emerald waters
  • Balanced Travel – combining comfort, culture, and a relaxed pace with guided excursions

Itinerary

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Day 1: Siem Reap – Arrival and Floating Villages

Upon arrival in Siem Reap, your journey begins with an immersive introduction to local life. We’ll set off on a boat trip on Tonlé Sap Lake to explore the unique floating villages. You'll witness how people live, work, and adapt to the rhythm of the lake's rising and falling waters.

Later in the evening, we’ll explore the vibrant Angkor Night Market, a colorful blend of local crafts, food, and souvenirs—a great place to soak in the energy of Siem Reap. Overnight at your hotel.

Day 2: Siem Reap – Angkor Temples and Cambodian Circus

After breakfast, we’ll set out for a full-day exploration of the majestic Angkor Archaeological Park. Begin with a visit to the atmospheric Ta Prohm Temple, famously swallowed by the jungle. Then, explore Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire, with its remarkable Bayon Temple, the Terrace of the Elephants, and the Terrace of the Leper King.

In the evening, enjoy a spectacular performance at the Phare Cambodian Circus, an acrobatic and theatrical show telling heartfelt local stories. It’s more than entertainment—it’s a social enterprise transforming the lives of Cambodian youth. Return to the hotel for overnight.

Day 3: Siem Reap – Angkor Wat & Cruise Embarkation

In the morning, we visit the world-renowned Angkor Wat, a symbol of Cambodia and one of the most remarkable religious monuments in the world. Explore its intricate bas-reliefs and learn about its spiritual significance.

After lunch at the hotel, we travel by road to Koh Chen. Here, you’ll discover traditional Cambodian villages before boarding your cruise ship. Settle into your cabin and enjoy a welcome cocktail and dinner on board as we begin our gentle cruise on Tonlé Sap Lake. Overnight on board.

Day 4: Koh Chen – Kampong Tralach

Start your day with a visit to the artisan village of Koh Chen, known for its master silversmiths and copperware artisans. You’ll observe how local craftsmen produce intricate pieces using age-old techniques passed down through generations.

After lunch on board, we travel inland to Wat Kampong Tralach Leu Pagoda. To reach the pagoda, we’ll travel along a charming country road flanked by lush rice paddies and grazing cattle. Return to the ship for dinner and overnight anchorage.

Day 5: Kampong Chhnang – Phnom Penh

Today, we explore Kampong Chhnang, one of Cambodia’s largest fishing ports and a hub for traditional pottery. The town’s name—“Chhnang”—means “pot,” and you'll discover why through a visit to local ceramic workshops and a tasting of regional specialties.

Return to the ship for lunch as we set sail for Phnom Penh. In the late afternoon, enjoy a brief but fun "tuk-tuk" tour of Cambodia’s capital. Back onboard, we’ll be treated to a beautiful Apsara dance performance, celebrating Khmer culture. Overnight in Phnom Penh.

Day 6: Phnom Penh – History & Royal Splendor

Today’s full-day excursion begins with a visit to the elegant Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda, with its floor inlaid with silver tiles and stunning Buddha statues. Continue to the National Museum, which houses a fine collection of Khmer art and artifacts.

In the afternoon, we confront Cambodia’s darker past at Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former school turned prison under the Khmer Rouge regime. After a reflective day, we return to the ship and set sail for Vietnam. Overnight on board.

Day 7: Chau Doc (Vietnam) – Crossing Borders

We arrive in Vietnam and begin our day with a visit to Chau Doc’s religious landmarks, including the colorful Tay An Pagoda and the sacred Ba Chua Xu Temple, important pilgrimage sites for locals.

After the excursion, we continue our cruise toward the town of Sa Dec, enjoying the scenic riverscapes along the Mekong Delta. Dinner and overnight on board.

Day 8: Sa Dec – Vinh Long – Cai Be

This morning we explore Sa Dec, including the former home of Huynh Thuy Le, the inspiration for Marguerite Duras’ novel The Lover. Enjoy some free time to explore the lively local markets.

In the afternoon, we visit Vinh Long to discover the region’s cottage industries. See how local families produce puffed rice, rice paper, clay bricks, and fruit liquors. Return to the ship for dinner and overnight.

Day 9: My Tho – Ho Chi Minh City

In My Tho, we take a sampan ride through narrow, palm-lined canals and visit a bee farm where you can enjoy fresh honey and tropical fruits. This peaceful region contrasts beautifully with the upcoming energy of the city.

We then navigate the tight Cho Gao Canal en route to Ho Chi Minh City, admiring the busy waterway life. Arrive in Saigon and stay overnight on board.

Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City – A Tale of Two Worlds

Our morning city tour introduces you to the highlights of this bustling metropolis, including Ben Thanh Market and the Thien Hau Temple in the old Chinese quarter.

Lunch is served on board before we head to the Museum of Vietnamese History and the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, where you’ll get an eye-opening glimpse into the life of guerrilla fighters during the Vietnam War. Overnight on board.

Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City – Hanoi

After breakfast, we visit Cholon, the vibrant Chinatown of Saigon, with its unique blend of temples, markets, and colonial architecture. Lunch is served in town before we head to the airport for our flight to Hanoi.

Upon arrival, you’ll transfer to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening in Vietnam’s elegant capital. Overnight at hotel.

Day 12: Hanoi – Tradition and Culture

Today we explore Hanoi’s most significant sites, starting with the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex, including his stilt house and the One Pillar Pagoda. The day continues with a stroll around the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake.

In the evening, you’ll enjoy a traditional Vietnamese water puppetry show, a unique art form accompanied by live folk music. Overnight at hotel.

Day 13: Hanoi – Halong Bay

We depart early for the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay. After arriving, board a luxury junk boat for an unforgettable overnight cruise through the iconic karst islands.

Enjoy a welcome drink and seafood lunch while we begin our journey among the limestone formations. The day ends with sunset views from the deck and a delicious dinner onboard.

Day 14: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Departure

Begin your morning with a Tai Chi session on the sun deck as the sun rises over the bay. After breakfast, we visit one of Halong’s largest and most beautiful caves, filled with towering stalactites and stalagmites.

We then return to port and travel back to Hanoi. Transfer to the airport in the late afternoon. We’ll bid you farewell around 6:00 p.m.—please schedule your departure flight no earlier than 8:00 p.m.

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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