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Timeless Treasures of the Mekong: From Saigon to Angkor Wat

0/5
Duration

12 days

Tour Type

Specific Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

___

Overview

Tour Route: Ho Chi Minh City → Mekong Delta (My Tho, Vinh Long, Cai Be, Sa Dec, Chau Doc) → Cambodia via river (Phnom Penh, Koh Chen, Kampong Tralach, Kampong Chhnang) → Tonle Sap → Siem Reap → Angkor Archaeological Park

Start/ End: Ho Chi Minh City- Siem Reap

This 12-day journey offers an unforgettable blend of cultural immersion, historical discovery, and scenic cruising along the legendary Mekong River. From the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the serene temples of Angkor, this itinerary combines urban energy, rural charm, and majestic heritage in both Vietnam and Cambodia.

Tailored for culturally curious travelers, especially mature adults and seniors, this tour is ideal for those who appreciate meaningful experiences, enjoy river cruising with comfort, and value in-depth exploration of ancient civilizations. Whether you are a first-time visitor to Southeast Asia or a seasoned explorer, this voyage provides a balanced mix of guided excursions and free time, fine dining, and comfortable accommodation.

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

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

  • Guided city tour of Ho Chi Minh City including Ben Thanh Market and Thien Hau Temple
  • Visit to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels
  • Scenic cruise along the Mekong River and Tonle Sap River
  • Sampan ride through the canals of the Mekong Delta
  • Visits to local villages, craft workshops, floating markets, and bee farms
  • Exploration of Phnom Penh's Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and Khmer Rouge history sites
  • Cultural performances of classical Khmer dance and circus arts (Phare)
  • Guided discovery of ancient Angkor temples, including Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, Banteay Srei, and Angkor Thom
  • Farewell gala dinner in Siem Reap

Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City

Upon arrival, guests are welcomed at the restaurant between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. for a relaxing lunch. This marks the beginning of your adventure through Vietnam and Cambodia, with time to settle in and meet fellow travelers.

In the afternoon, we’ll begin exploring Ho Chi Minh City. From its lively markets to the historic Thien Hau Temple in Chinatown, this tour offers a great introduction to Vietnam’s bustling metropolis. Afterward, we’ll transfer to the ship. Once on board, you’ll have time to settle into your cabin before enjoying a welcome cocktail and an introduction to the crew. Dinner and overnight stay on board.

Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City – Cu Chi Tunnels

After breakfast, we’ll head out for an eye-opening visit to the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels. This extensive underground network was used by the Viet Cong during the war and offers deep insight into the country's resilience and ingenuity.

In the afternoon, we'll visit the Museum of Vietnamese History, where you'll discover Vietnam’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Returning to the ship, we’ll begin our journey along the Cho Gao Canal, a scenic and busy waterway. Dinner and overnight on board as the ship gently cruises onward.

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

Today’s voyage takes us through the picturesque Cho Gao Canal, teeming with local boat traffic and lined with everyday river life. This part of the Mekong Delta is lively and colorful, offering glimpses of life on and by the water.

We’ll stop in My Tho and Vinh Long for immersive experiences. Visit a local bee farm and enjoy a fresh honey tasting, then hop onto a small sampan for a peaceful ride along narrow canals shaded by coconut palms. In Cai Be, we’ll explore a local village to see traditional techniques for making rice paper, puffed rice, pottery, and rice wine. Back on board, enjoy a relaxing evening and dinner as we cruise deeper into the delta.

Day 4: Sa Dec

We’ll arrive in the charming town of Sa Dec this morning. Our included excursion features a visit to the former home of Huynh Thuy Le, the real-life lover of French writer Marguerite Duras. The story inspired her famous novel The Lover. This house offers a unique look into colonial-era Vietnam.

After the guided visit, you’ll have free time to explore the local market or relax along the riverbanks. In the afternoon, our ship sets sail once more, this time heading toward the Cambodian border. Enjoy the scenery as we cruise, along with another peaceful night on board.

Day 5: Chau Doc – Phnom Penh

We begin our day in Chau Doc, a border town known for its vibrant culture and religious diversity. On our included excursion, we’ll visit the Tay An Pagoda and the Ba Chua Xu Temple, both deeply significant to local spiritual life.

In the late afternoon, we cross the border into Cambodia and arrive in Phnom Penh. A brief city tour by traditional tuk-tuk gives you a first look at the capital’s charm. Return to the ship for dinner and enjoy the evening at your leisure as we remain docked overnight.

Day 6: Phnom Penh

Today is devoted to uncovering Cambodia’s rich and often poignant history. Our full-day excursion begins with a tour of the majestic Royal Palace and its Silver Pagoda, both prime examples of Khmer architecture. We’ll continue to the National Museum, home to thousands of artifacts from Angkor and beyond.

In the afternoon, we visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a sobering reminder of Cambodia’s tragic past under the Khmer Rouge. Back on board, we’ll enjoy a cultural performance of classical Khmer dance and music. Dinner on board and free time to explore the city or relax.

Day 7: Koh Chen – Kampong Tralach

Our morning begins with a visit to the village of Koh Chen, known for its skilled artisans who craft beautiful silver and copperware. Watch them at work and browse their handcrafted items, which make for unique souvenirs.

We then cruise to Kampong Tralach, where we visit the serene Wat Kampong Tralach Leu pagoda. Set amid rice fields, the pagoda offers insight into Cambodia’s rural life and Buddhist traditions. The peaceful setting is perfect for reflection as our journey continues.

Day 8: Kampong Chhnang – Tonle Sap River

This morning, we’ll visit Kampong Chhnang, one of the largest fishing ports on the Tonle Sap Lake. The town is famous for its traditional pottery and floating villages. During our tour, you'll get a close look at local craftsmanship and try regional delicacies.

Lunch is served back on board as we continue our cruise along the Tonle Sap River. In the evening, enjoy a farewell cocktail and dinner with the crew and fellow travelers. Our ship remains anchored overnight as we prepare for the final leg of the journey.

Day 9: Siem Reap

We disembark and journey by road to Siem Reap, with a lunch stop at a local restaurant along the way. Upon arrival, we’ll explore the Angkor National Museum, where you’ll gain context for the incredible temples you’re about to visit.

In the evening, enjoy dinner followed by a performance at Phare, the Cambodian Circus, a mesmerizing blend of acrobatics, theater, and storytelling that showcases young Cambodian talent. Overnight at the hotel in Siem Reap.

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

This morning’s included excursion takes you to the Roluos Group of temples—among the earliest of the Angkor complex. Their simplicity and elegance mark the beginning of Khmer classical architecture.

Later, visit Senteurs d'Angkor, a local workshop producing handmade soaps, teas, and spices. In the evening, take a relaxed stroll through the lively Angkor Night Market to experience local crafts, food, and entertainment. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 11: Siem Reap – Banteay Srei & Angkor Thom

We begin with an excursion to Banteay Srei, often referred to as the “Citadel of Women,” famous for its pink sandstone and intricate carvings. This gem of Angkorian architecture is a favorite for photography lovers.

In the afternoon, we explore Ta Prohm, the temple made famous by the movie Tomb Raider, where jungle roots embrace ancient stones. Then, we tour Angkor Thom, including the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King. A festive gala dinner wraps up your final evening in Siem Reap.

Day 12: Siem Reap – Angkor Wat & Departure

Our final day features the iconic Angkor Wat, the crown jewel of Khmer architecture and the largest religious monument in the world. The temple complex is breathtaking at any time of day, and your guided tour will reveal its incredible scale and detail.

We return to the hotel for lunch and a short rest. At around 2:00 p.m., we bid you farewell. Please make sure your flight is booked for no earlier than 5:00 p.m. to allow time for your transfer.

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

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