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Grand Mekong Discovery: Vietnam & Cambodia in 15 Days

0/5
Duration

15 days

Tour Type

Specific Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

___

Overview

Tour Route: Siem Reap → Phnom Penh → Chau Doc → Sa Dec → Vinh Long → Cai Be → My Tho → Ho Chi Minh City → Hanoi → Halong Bay → Hanoi

Start/ End: Siem Reap – Hanoi

Explore the wonders of Southeast Asia on this immersive 15-day journey through Cambodia and Vietnam, combining land and river cruising for a truly enriching travel experience. From the majestic temples of Angkor Wat to the bustling streets of Hanoi, from floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake to the mystical limestone peaks of Halong Bay, this tour reveals the region’s spiritual, cultural, and natural beauty.

Designed for curious travelers aged 50 and above, this program blends cultural sightseeing, soft adventure, and comfort, making it ideal for retirees, seasoned travelers, and culture lovers seeking a deeper understanding of Indochina.

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

  • Discover the Angkor temples, including Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Srei
  • Cruise across Tonle Sap Lake and the Mekong River aboard a comfortable river ship
  • Visit the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh and the Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City
  • Experience local life in floating markets and craft villages along the Mekong Delta
  • Explore Cholon, Hanoi’s Old Quarter, and enjoy a water puppet show
  • Cruise overnight in stunning Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Itinerary

Expand All
Day 1: Arrival in Siem Reap – A Cultural Welcome

Upon your arrival in Siem Reap, the day begins based on your flight schedule. For those arriving between 6:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., a delicious lunch will be served at your hotel to help you settle in and recharge after your journey.

In the afternoon, enjoy an enriching visit to the Angkor National Museum, where you’ll gain fascinating insights into Khmer history and the legendary Angkor Empire. This immersive experience sets the stage for your exploration of Cambodia’s ancient treasures. Overnight at your hotel in Siem Reap.

Day 2: Siem Reap - Exploring the Roluos Group and Angkor Thom

Today’s full-day excursion takes you on a journey through time as you explore the temples of the Roluos group, including Preah Ko, Bakong, and Lolei – among the earliest temples of the Angkorian era, showcasing pre-classical Khmer architecture.

Later, visit Ta Prohm, famous for the massive roots entwined with temple walls, and continue to the walled city of Angkor Thom, where you'll discover the Terrace of the Elephants and Terrace of the Leper King. In the evening, enjoy a vibrant performance by Phare, the Cambodian Circus, which blends theater, music, dance, and acrobatics. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 3: Siem Reap - Banteay Srei and Tonle Sap Lake

This morning, set off to visit the intricately carved Banteay Srei temple, often considered a masterpiece of classical Khmer art. Known as the “Citadel of Women,” this site is admired for its fine details and pink sandstone.

Continue your cultural journey with a stop at the B.R.B. Handicraft Center, supporting local artisans and traditional crafts. In the afternoon, board a boat for a scenic cruise on Tonle Sap Lake, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, where you’ll witness the unique floating villages. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 4: Siem Reap - The Magnificence of Angkor Wat and Embarkation

Today’s highlight is a visit to the iconic Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world and a symbol of Cambodia. As you explore this architectural wonder, your guide will share the rich history and symbolism behind its intricate carvings.

In the afternoon, transfer to your river cruise ship, where you’ll be greeted by the crew and enjoy a welcome cocktail. Settle into your cabin and prepare for the next phase of your journey — a scenic cruise along the Mekong and Tonle Sap Rivers.

Day 5: Koh Chen & Kampong Tralach

Wake up to the rhythms of the river as we arrive in Koh Chen, a charming village renowned for its silver and copper artisans. Walk through local workshops and discover the traditional methods still used today.

After lunch on board, we head to the peaceful Wat Kampong Tralach Leu pagoda, accessed by crossing picturesque rice paddies. This serene spiritual site offers a tranquil glimpse into rural Cambodian life. The ship will anchor here for the night.

Day 6: Kampong Chhnang – Sailing to Phnom Penh

Begin the day with an excursion to Kampong Chhnang, one of the largest fishing ports on Tonle Sap Lake. Explore its bustling floating village and observe the local way of life, including traditional pottery making.

Back on board, enjoy lunch as we cruise toward Phnom Penh. Upon arrival in the capital, hop on a tuk-tuk for a fun and informative evening tour of the city’s landmarks. Back on board, a mesmerizing Apsara dance show awaits you after dinner. Overnight on board.

Day 7: Historical Sights of Phnom Penh

Today’s full-day excursion in Phnom Penh begins with visits to the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, glimmering with grandeur and filled with royal history. Continue to the National Museum, home to the world's largest collection of Khmer artifacts.

After lunch in town, we delve into Cambodia’s darker past with a sobering visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, once a Khmer Rouge prison. In the evening, the ship departs Phnom Penh and sets sail for Vietnam. Overnight on board.

Day 8: Crossing the Border – Chau Doc

Welcome to Vietnam! Our first stop is the vibrant town of Chau Doc, nestled near the Cambodian border and known for its diverse communities and floating fish farms.

Visit the serene Tay An Pagoda and the revered Ba Chua Xu Temple, both reflecting the town’s strong spiritual heritage. After lunch, we resume cruising toward Sa Dec. Overnight on board.

Day 9: Sa Dec, Vinh Long & Cai Be

This morning, explore Sa Dec, made famous by Marguerite Duras’s novel The Lover. Visit Huynh Thuy Le’s house, the author’s former lover, and enjoy free time strolling through this peaceful riverside town.

Later, cruise to Vinh Long and then Cai Be, where we’ll visit a brick and pottery factory and observe the making of rice paper, puffed rice snacks, and rice alcohol. These traditional methods reveal the ingenuity of local craftsmanship. Overnight on board.

Day 10: My Tho – Into the Heart of the Mekong

Our morning begins in My Tho, where we visit a bee farm and sample local honey and exotic fruits. Then, embark on a sampan ride through mangrove-lined canals — a peaceful way to experience life in the Mekong Delta.

After lunch, we sail through the Chao Gao Canal, a narrow and scenic waterway leading us to Ho Chi Minh City. We dock in the city center for the night.

Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City and Cu Chi Tunnels

Explore the vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. A city tour covers the Reunification Palace, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Saigon Post Office, and the Museum of Vietnamese History.

In the afternoon, travel to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a sprawling underground network used during the Vietnam War. Tonight, enjoy a farewell cocktail and dinner as the ship remains docked in the heart of the city.

Day 12: Cholon & Flight to Hanoi

After breakfast, explore Cholon, Ho Chi Minh City’s bustling Chinatown district, including a visit to the vibrant Binh Tay Market. This area is known for its rich blend of Chinese and Vietnamese culture.

Enjoy lunch in town before catching your flight to Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital city. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and rest. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 13: Highlights of Hanoi

Begin your Hanoi adventure with a full-day tour. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Presidential Palace, and One Pillar Pagoda, discovering Vietnam’s revolutionary past and cultural traditions.

In the evening, enjoy a charming water puppet show, a traditional Vietnamese art form that dates back to the 11th century. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 14: Journey to Halong Bay

Depart early for the scenic drive to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Upon arrival, board your cruise ship and enjoy a welcome cocktail as you sail through majestic limestone islands.

Cruise through emerald waters, exploring hidden coves and islets. Relax on board and take in the stunning scenery. Dinner and overnight on the ship.

Day 15: Halong Bay – Farewell in Hanoi

Join a Tai Chi session on the sun deck as the sun rises over Halong Bay. After breakfast, explore one of the largest and most impressive caves in the bay.

Return to the port and transfer back to Hanoi, arriving in time for your flight. You’ll be dropped off at the airport around 6:00 p.m. — please ensure any departing flights are scheduled after 8:00 p.m. to allow for a smooth departure.

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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