Embark on an intimate and enriching journey along the Mekong River aboard the charming Toum Tiou II. Designed for small groups seeking authentic experiences, this cruise blends cultural immersion with light adventures – featuring biking, kayaking, sampan rides, and walking tours. Discover the hidden beauty of the Mekong, from peaceful riverside villages to the serene Tra Su Forest and majestic Udong Hill. With personalized service and a relaxed pace, this journey offers the perfect balance of comfort, activity, and cultural discovery. Your adventure culminates in a visit to the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor – a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most iconic archaeological wonders of Southeast Asia.
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The Essence of the Mekong: Cruise Through Two Cultures
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Duration
11 days
Tour Type
Specific Tour
Group Size
16 people
Languages
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Overview
Tour Route: Ho Chi Minh City – Phnom Penh – Siem Riep
Duration: 11 Days
Start/ End: Ho Chi Minh City – Siem Riep
Highlights
- Cross-border cruise from Vietnam to Cambodia
- Authentic cultural immersion
- Exclusive passage through the scenic Chao Gao Canal
- Boat excursion into the magical Tra Su Forest
- “Saigon After Dark” Vespa adventure
- Enjoy traditional Khmer performances
- Marvel at the UNESCO-listed Angkor temples
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Welcome to vibrant Ho Chi Minh City! Your adventure begins with a warm gathering at the Liberty Riverside Hotel between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., followed by a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, dive into local culture with a visit to bustling Chinatown, where you’ll observe the city’s unique blend of Chinese and Vietnamese heritage. Then explore Giac Lam Pagoda — the oldest in the city — and enjoy the colorful sights and sounds of the Flower Market and Binh Tay Market on a short walking tour.
Later, board the Toum Tiou 2 and settle into your cozy cabin. Enjoy a welcome cocktail and dinner onboard as we dock downtown. In the evening, you’ll experience “Saigon After Dark” — a thrilling ride on the back of a vintage Vespa. This food and nightlife tour includes visits to street food spots, seafood tastings, local creperies, and a live music venue for a truly immersive introduction to Saigon’s buzzing energy.
Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City Exploration
Start your morning with breakfast onboard before heading into downtown Ho Chi Minh City for a guided city tour. You’ll discover key landmarks and gain a deeper understanding of the city’s history and modern charm.
After returning to the ship for lunch, the afternoon takes you to the War Remnants Museum — a sobering yet essential visit that offers insight into Vietnam’s complex past. In the evening, the ship sets sail for My Tho. Dinner is served onboard, and you’ll spend a peaceful night cruising the Mekong.
Day 3: My Tho - Cai Be
Enjoy breakfast as we journey along the stunning Chao Gao canal, a lively waterway buzzing with activity - a highlight unique to this cruise. Upon arrival in My Tho, you’ll board a local boat to Thoi Son Island, where you can explore daily village life and taste seasonal tropical fruits.
Back on board, the ship sails toward Cai Be as you enjoy lunch. In Cai Be, step ashore to discover a traditional craft village and witness local artisans at work. The day ends with a tranquil kayaking experience along the Mekong’s calm waters. We continue cruising to Sa Dec, where you’ll have dinner and spend the night onboard.
Day 4: Sa Dec
After breakfast, hop on a local boat for a short panoramic tour of charming Sa Dec. Discover its colonial-era architecture and bustling riverside markets, giving you a glimpse into life in this Mekong town.
Following the tour, the ship departs for Chau Doc. Enjoy lunch and dinner onboard as we cruise through the Mekong’s changing scenery. Relax and unwind for another restful night on the river.
Day 5: Chau Doc - Phnom Penh
Chau Doc is a vibrant border town known for its fish farming and cultural diversity. After breakfast, we’ll head out to explore the captivating Tra Su Forest. Glide through this peaceful sanctuary on a rowing boat, surrounded by emerald waterways and rich biodiversity.
In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic cable car ride up Sam Mountain for panoramic views of the countryside. Afterward, we begin our journey to Cambodia, crossing the border at Vinh Xuong. Customs formalities will be handled on board. By evening, we’ll arrive in Phnom Penh. Dinner is served on board, and we anchor overnight.
Day 6: Phnom Penh
Day 6: Phnom Penh
Enjoy breakfast onboard before visiting the Royal Palace, a splendid example of Khmer architecture. You’ll also explore the Silver Pagoda and the National Museum, home to fascinating artifacts that showcase Cambodia’s rich cultural legacy.
In the afternoon, hop on a tuk-tuk for an immersive ride through Phnom Penh’s streets. Visit Wat Phnom, the spiritual heart of the city. Back on the ship, enjoy an enchanting Apsara dance performance before dinner. Spend the night onboard at the port.
Day 7: Kampong Tralach – Udong
This morning, we sail to Kampong Tralach, where we’ll visit the serene Wat Kampong Tralach Leu, known for its peaceful setting and elegant architecture. It’s a great place to connect with Cambodia’s spiritual heritage.
After lunch onboard, we continue to Oudong, the former royal capital of Cambodia for over 250 years. Here, you’ll visit the Vipassana Dhura Pagoda, a center for meditation and Buddhist learning. We sail onward to Kampong Chhnang, where you’ll enjoy dinner and another restful night on board.
Day 8: Kampong Chhnang - Koh Chen
Begin your day with a visit to Kampong Chhnang, a key fishing hub on Tonle Sap Lake. This region is famous for its floating villages and pottery-making traditions. For those feeling adventurous, join an optional bike ride along the riverside to visit the pottery village.
Return to the ship and enjoy lunch as we cruise to Koh Chen. In the evening, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate the memorable journey we’ve shared. Overnight on board.
Day 9: Siem Reap
Disembark for a scenic drive to Siem Reap, with stops at traditional villages along the way to experience local life firsthand. After the drive (approximately 5-6 hours), we’ll explore Angkor Wat - the crown jewel of Khmer architecture. Be sure to dress appropriately for this sacred site.
In the evening, stroll through the lively Angkor Night Market, filled with local handicrafts and street food. Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Siem Reap.
Day 10: Siem Reap
After breakfast, embark on a boat trip across Tonlé Sap Lake, where you’ll discover floating villages and learn about life on the water. This unique environment is home to communities who have lived here for generations.
Lunch is followed by a visit to Senteurs d’Angkor, a boutique workshop offering handmade products like silk, spices, and cosmetics. In the evening, enjoy a live performance at Phare, the Cambodian circus - a thrilling blend of storytelling and acrobatics. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 11: Siem Reap – Angkor Temples
Your final day begins with a guided tour of Ta Prohm, the jungle-covered temple made famous by “Tomb Raider.” Next, explore the vast complex of Angkor Thom, where you’ll encounter the serene faces of Bayon Temple, the grand Terrace of the Elephants, and the mystical Terrace of the Leper King.
After lunch at the hotel, your adventure comes to an end. We recommend booking flights for after 5:00 p.m. to allow plenty of time for your transfer.
Included/Excluded
- First-class services
- 4-star and 5-star 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.
