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Grand Mekong River Cruise Tour from Vietnam to Cambodia

0/5
Duration

12 days

Tour Type

Specific Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

___

Overview

Tour Route: Ho Chi Minh City – Cho Gao Canal – My Tho – Cai Be – Sa Dec – Chau Doc – Phnom Penh – Koh Chen – Kampong Tralach – Kampong Chhnang – Tonle Sap – Siem Reap (Angkor Temples)

Start/ End: Ho Chi Minh City – Siem Reap

Discover the heart and soul of Southeast Asia on this immersive 12-day Mekong River Cruise Tour, a captivating journey through southern Vietnam and Cambodia. Designed for culturally curious travelers—especially middle-aged and older individuals seeking comfort, enrichment, and unique local encounters—this itinerary offers an extraordinary blend of river cruising, guided land tours, and authentic cultural experiences.

Begin in Ho Chi Minh City, uncovering its history and wartime heritage before cruising into the serene Mekong Delta. Travel through My Tho, Cai Be, and Sa Dec, where you’ll visit floating markets, traditional workshops, and colonial-era homes. Cross into Cambodia via Chau Doc, then continue to the capital Phnom Penh for royal palaces, tragic war history, and classical Khmer dance.

Cruise further north to Kampong Tralach and Kampong Chhnang, then disembark for Siem Reap, where you’ll spend four unforgettable days exploring the temples of Angkor, local artisan villages, and cultural shows. From floating villages to ancient ruins, this journey captures the vibrant pulse of the Mekong region.

Who This Tour is For:

  • Mature, English-speaking travelers seeking a mix of culture, history, and soft adventure
  • Cruise lovers who enjoy boutique river cruising with curated onshore excursions
  • First-time visitors or repeat travelers to Southeast Asia who want to connect with local life beyond the usual tourist routes
  • Individuals or couples who appreciate comfort, authentic experiences, and slow-paced travel
  • Nature lovers, photographers, and history enthusiasts

No strenuous physical activity is required, but moderate walking and some boat transfers are part of the experience. The tour offers an excellent balance of guided exploration and relaxing onboard time.

Highlights

  • Cu Chi Tunnels & Vietnamese History Museum
  • Mekong Delta experiences: bee farm visits, sampan rides, floating markets, rice candy workshops
  • Sa Dec colonial town & Huynh Thuy Le’s house
  • Phnom Penh Royal Palace, National Museum & S-21 Genocide Museum
  • Traditional silver and pottery villages in Cambodia
  • Spectacular Angkor temple complex including Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm & Banteay Srei
  • Cultural performances: Khmer classical dance and Phare Circus
  • Gala dinners and nightly comforts aboard the cruise ship

Itinerary

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Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Embarkation & City Tour

Your journey begins in bustling Ho Chi Minh City, the former capital of South Vietnam. Meet at the Liberty Central Riverside Hotel between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. for a welcome lunch and orientation. After lunch, set off on a guided tour of the city’s vibrant streets, colorful markets, and historic landmarks, including the peaceful Thien Hau Temple, a spiritual sanctuary in the heart of Chinatown.

Later in the afternoon, transfer to the cruise ship where your floating home awaits. Once you've settled into your cabin, enjoy a welcome cocktail and get acquainted with the crew during an introduction session. Relax and unwind on deck as the ship stays moored for your first night onboard.

Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City – Cu Chi Tunnels & Museum

Begin your day with a fascinating excursion to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an immense underground network used during the Vietnam War. Learn how the tunnels were constructed and gain insight into the resilience of Vietnamese soldiers who once lived and fought in this hidden world. Continue to the Museum of Vietnamese History, where ancient artifacts and exhibits offer a deeper understanding of the country's complex past.

Return to the ship for lunch, and as the afternoon unfolds, the vessel will begin cruising toward the scenic Cho Gao Canal. Take in views of rural life along the riverbanks, with rice fields, coconut groves, and stilt houses appearing in the landscape. Enjoy dinner onboard and spend the night surrounded by the gentle rhythm of the Mekong.

Day 3: Cho Gao – My Tho – Vinh Long – Cai Be

Sail through the peaceful Cho Gao Canal, one of the busiest waterways in Vietnam. As you reach My Tho, embark on a delightful local excursion. Visit a bee farm where you can taste fresh honey and learn about beekeeping traditions in the Mekong Delta. Continue with a sampan ride through narrow canals shaded by nipa palms—an intimate look at delta life.

In Vinh Long and Cai Be, explore a brick and pottery factory, observe traditional techniques of rice-paper making, and watch how locals puff rice to create a beloved snack. Sample rice wine, a popular homemade spirit, before returning to the ship. As the sun sets, the cruise continues, and you’ll spend another night immersed in the calm of the river.

Day 4: Sa Dec

Arrive in the charming town of Sa Dec, a hidden gem with colonial-era architecture and literary significance. Visit the former home of Huynh Thuy Le, the lover of French writer Marguerite Duras, whose memoir The Lover brought fame to this sleepy town. The home offers a glimpse into the Indochinese past with its blend of French and Vietnamese design.

Afterward, enjoy some leisure time to stroll the riverside market or simply observe the daily rhythms of local life. In the afternoon, the ship resumes its course, leaving Vietnam behind as it begins the journey to Cambodia. Relax and enjoy the tranquil scenery while you cruise into the night.

Day 5: Chau Doc – Phnom Penh

Start the morning in Chau Doc, a border town known for its rich cultural diversity. Visit Tay An Pagoda, an architecturally unique Buddhist temple that blends Indian and Islamic influences. Then, head to Ba Chua Xu Temple, a spiritual center visited by thousands of pilgrims every year.

In the evening, arrive in Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital. Experience the city’s energy during a brief guided tour by tuk-tuk, a traditional three-wheeled vehicle perfect for weaving through busy streets. Return to the ship and enjoy dinner onboard, spending the night docked in Phnom Penh.

Day 6: Phnom Penh – City Tour & Khmer Dance

Today, delve deep into Cambodia’s past and present with a full-day city tour. Begin with the opulent Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda, glittering with thousands of silver tiles and sacred relics. Visit the National Museum, home to one of the world's finest collections of Khmer art and sculpture.

In the afternoon, confront Cambodia’s darker history with a sobering visit to Tuol Svay Prey High School, also known as S-21, a former Khmer Rouge prison and interrogation center. After returning to the ship, enjoy a traditional Apsara dance performance, a graceful art form rooted in Cambodian legend. The evening is yours to relax or explore further on your own.

Day 7: Koh Chen – Kampong Tralach

This morning, stop at Koh Chen, a small village famous for its silversmiths and copper artisans. Watch skilled craftspeople at work as they create ceremonial bowls and intricate sculptures using age-old techniques passed down through generations.

Continue to Kampong Tralach, where you’ll visit Wat Kampong Tralach Leu, a peaceful pagoda set amidst rice paddies. To reach it, enjoy a unique ox-cart ride through the countryside, offering a delightful glimpse into traditional rural life. Return to the ship for dinner and spend a quiet night onboard.

Day 8: Kampong Chhnang – Tonle Sap River

Begin the day in Kampong Chhnang, one of the largest fishing ports on Tonle Sap Lake. Known for its floating villages and traditional pottery, this region showcases a harmonious blend of nature, culture, and craft. Visit local workshops and sample some regional specialties during a tasting session.

After lunch onboard, the ship continues sailing along the Tonle Sap River. In the evening, gather for a farewell cocktail and dinner as the crew hosts a warm send-off celebration. Spend your final night onboard, reflecting on the vibrant cultures and memories formed along the Mekong.

Day 9: Siem Reap – Angkor National Museum & Circus Show

Disembark from the ship and travel overland to Siem Reap. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit the Angkor National Museum, a modern space housing relics and interactive displays that set the stage for your exploration of the Angkor temples.

In the evening, enjoy a captivating performance by Phare, the Cambodian Circus. This innovative troupe combines traditional folklore with contemporary theater, dance, and acrobatics. Settle into your hotel for the night in Siem Reap.

Day 10: Siem Reap – Roluos Temples & Angkor Night Market

This morning, journey to the Roluos group of temples, some of the oldest in the Angkor complex, showcasing the early brilliance of Khmer architecture. Wander among the ancient ruins of Preah Ko, Bakong, and Lolei, set in peaceful countryside surroundings.

In the afternoon, visit Senteurs d’Angkor, a delightful workshop where you can observe the production of handmade soaps, teas, spices, and other locally sourced goods. In the evening, stroll through the Angkor Night Market for souvenirs, snacks, and cultural immersion before returning to your hotel.

Day 11: Siem Reap – Banteay Srei, Ta Prohm & Angkor Thom

Today is dedicated to exploring some of the most iconic sites of the Angkor kingdom. Begin with Banteay Srei, a pink sandstone temple famous for its detailed carvings, often referred to as the "jewel of Khmer art." Continue to the mysterious Ta Prohm, where ancient stone walls are embraced by the roots of towering trees.

In the afternoon, delve into Angkor Thom, the ancient royal city of the Khmer Empire. Marvel at the Bayon Temple with its massive stone faces, and walk through the Elephant Terrace and Terrace of the Leper King. In the evening, gather for a special gala dinner celebrating your incredible journey. Overnight at your hotel in Siem Reap.

Day 12: Siem Reap – Angkor Wat & Departure

Your journey concludes with a morning visit to the legendary Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument. Stroll through its galleries, marvel at intricate bas-reliefs, and soak in the majestic aura of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Return to the hotel for lunch and freshening up. Airport transfers will be arranged around 2:00 p.m. Please ensure your departing flight is scheduled after 5:00 p.m. Farewell and safe travels!

Included/Excluded

  • First-class services
  • Accommodations
  • Transfer transportation
  • Entrance fees
  • Refined local cuisine
  • Onboard activities and/or lectures
  • Local tour guides
  • International and domestic airfare
  • Vietnam and Cambodia visa fees
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)
  • Gratuities for guides and crew
  • Personal expenses (laundry, minibar, etc.)
  • Optional activities not included in the main program
  • Meals and drinks not specified in the itinerary

Tour's Location

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