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Vietnam to Cambodia: A Timeless Journey Along the Mekong

0/5
Duration

14 days

Tour Type

Specific Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

___

Overview

Tour Route:

  • Vietnam: Hanoi → Halong Bay → Ho Chi Minh City → Mekong Delta (My Tho, Vinh Long, Cai Be, Sa Dec, Chau Doc)
  • Cambodia: Phnom Penh → Koh Chen → Kampong Tralach → Kampong Chhnang → Tonle Sap → Siem Reap → Angkor Temples

Start/ End: Hanoi – Siem Riep

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime 14-day adventure that blends cultural exploration, breathtaking natural beauty, and deep historical insight across Vietnam and Cambodia. From the timeless streets of Hanoi to the majestic temples of Angkor, this immersive journey takes you along the Mekong River—one of Asia’s most legendary waterways. Experience the charm of ancient pagodas, floating villages, colonial towns, and vibrant cities as you travel by land, air, and luxury cruise.

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

  • Explore Hanoi’s old-world charm and traditional water puppetry show
  • Cruise the iconic Halong Bay, overnight on a luxury boat
  • Discover Ho Chi Minh City and the historic Cu Chi Tunnels
  • Enjoy a 7-night Mekong River cruise with daily cultural excursions
  • Visit floating markets, bee farms, and artisan villages in the Mekong Delta
  • Explore Phnom Penh's Royal Palace, Khmer Rouge history, and local crafts
  • Discover Tonle Sap’s floating villages and Cambodia’s rural heartland
  • Marvel at Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, and Angkor Thom—UNESCO World Heritage Sites
  • Enjoy unique experiences like a tuk-tuk city tour, Khmer dance performance, and Phare circus show

Itinerary

Expand All
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

Your adventure begins in the capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi—a city steeped in history and brimming with vibrant street life. Today, you’ll enjoy a full-day guided excursion that introduces you to Hanoi’s rich cultural heritage and iconic landmarks. Expect to explore the city's colonial architecture, scenic lakes, and bustling Old Quarter.

After a full day of sightseeing, you'll return to your hotel to relax and unwind. Use this evening to soak in the atmosphere of Hanoi—perhaps enjoy a leisurely walk around Hoan Kiem Lake or try a local specialty like pho at a nearby restaurant. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2: Hanoi – Halong Bay

We’ll depart early in the morning for Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its emerald waters and towering limestone islands. The drive takes approximately 3.5 hours, offering a scenic glimpse into the countryside of northern Vietnam.

Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed aboard the cruise with a refreshing cocktail. As the cruise sets sail, you’ll be mesmerized by Halong Bay’s breathtaking beauty. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon taking in the majestic landscapes before settling into your comfortable cabin for an overnight stay on the water.

Day 3: Halong Bay – Hanoi

Start your morning with a peaceful Tai Chi session on the sun deck, surrounded by the bay’s tranquil scenery. After breakfast, embark on an excursion to one of the largest and most impressive caves in Halong Bay, filled with striking stalactites and stalagmites.

Later in the day, the cruise continues through the bay before you disembark and return to Hanoi. That evening, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese water puppetry show—a unique cultural performance that dates back centuries. Overnight at your hotel in Hanoi.

Day 4: Hanoi Flight to Ho Chi Minh City

This morning, you’ll take a flight from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s bustling southern metropolis. After arriving, you'll begin an included city tour that highlights the city’s energetic markets and the historic Thien Hau Temple in Chinatown.

Later, you’ll be transferred to your river cruise ship. After settling into your cabin, meet the crew at a welcome cocktail and get acquainted with your floating home for the next portion of your journey. Spend the evening at leisure, with your ship anchored in the heart of the city.

Day 5: Ho Chi Minh City

Today begins with a fascinating excursion to the Cu Chi Tunnels—an immense underground network used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. You’ll learn about the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people during this turbulent period.

Afterward, continue your exploration with a visit to the Museum of Vietnamese History to gain deeper insights into the country’s rich past. The ship will begin sailing along the Cho Gao Canal, a picturesque and lesser-traveled route. Overnight on board.

Day 6: Cho Gao – My Tho – Vinh Long – Cai Be

This morning, enjoy cruising through the Cho Gao Canal, observing daily life along the riverbanks. You’ll visit a local bee farm, where you’ll sample fresh honey and see traditional farming practices firsthand.

In the afternoon, hop into small sampan boats to glide through canals lined with mangroves and palms. Visit a craft village to see how locals produce bricks, rice paper, puffed rice, and rice wine. Return to the ship and continue cruising toward Cai Be. Overnight on board.

Day 7: Sa Dec

This morning, take part in an excursion to the former home of Huynh Thuy Le, the inspiration for the male protagonist in Marguerite Duras’ novel The Lover. The house is a beautiful blend of French and Chinese architecture and a cultural treasure in the Mekong Delta.

Enjoy free time to explore the town of Sa Dec, known for its vibrant markets and colonial villas. Later in the day, the ship sets sail for the Cambodian border. Relax on board and take in the passing landscapes. Overnight on board.

Day 8: Chau Doc – Phnom Penh

In Chau Doc, located near the Vietnam-Cambodia border, visit the colorful Tay An Pagoda and the sacred Ba Chua Xu Temple, important pilgrimage sites with rich spiritual significance.

By evening, the ship arrives in Phnom Penh. After dinner, enjoy a short guided tour by tuk-tuk, giving you a taste of the city’s energy and charm. Return to the ship for an overnight stay docked in the capital.

Day 9: Phnom Penh

Today is dedicated to exploring Phnom Penh’s cultural and historical landmarks. Visit the opulent Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, followed by the National Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of Khmer artifacts.

In the afternoon, gain a sobering perspective on Cambodia’s past with a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former Khmer Rouge prison. Back on board, enjoy a traditional Khmer dance performance. The evening is yours to spend as you wish. Overnight on board.

Day 10: Koh Chen – Kampong Tralach

This morning, you’ll visit the silversmith village of Koh Chen, known for its traditional copper and silver craftsmanship. Watch artisans at work and admire their intricate designs.

Continue to Kampong Tralach for an excursion to Wat Kampong Tralach Leu Pagoda, located in a peaceful rural setting. Experience the quiet beauty of the countryside before returning to the ship for an evening of relaxation. Overnight on board.

Day 11: Kampong Chhnang – Tonle Sap River

Your journey today brings you to Kampong Chhnang, one of the largest fishing ports on Tonle Sap Lake. The area is also known for its traditional pottery-making techniques, and you’ll enjoy a tasting of local specialties during your visit.

As the ship continues cruising along the Tonle Sap River, take in the lush landscapes and serene waterways. This is the perfect time to reflect on your incredible journey so far. Overnight on board.

Day 12: Siem Reap – Angkor Temples

Disembark and travel overland to Siem Reap (or enjoy a morning cruise if water levels permit). Along the way, discover charming traditional villages that offer a glimpse into Cambodian rural life.

In the afternoon, visit the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat temple, the most iconic and grandiose monument of the Khmer Empire. Later, stroll through the lively Angkor Night Market, where you can shop for handicrafts or sample local street food. Overnight at your hotel in Siem Reap.

Day 13: Siem Reap

Embark on a boat trip across Tonlé Sap Lake to see the floating villages, where homes, schools, and shops drift on the water—a unique way of life for many Cambodians.

After lunch, visit Senteurs d’Angkor, a local workshop producing handmade soaps, teas, spices, and silks. In the evening, enjoy the energetic and emotional performance of Phare, the Cambodian Circus. Return to your hotel for the night.

Day 14: Siem Reap – Angkor Temples

On your final morning, explore the mystical Ta Prohm Temple, where massive tree roots weave through ancient stone structures. Continue to Angkor Thom to see the Bayon Temple with its enigmatic stone faces, and the grand Terraces of the Elephants and Leper King.

After lunch at your hotel, it’s time to say farewell. Please ensure your flight is scheduled for after 5:00 p.m. to allow for a relaxed 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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