Cambodia and Vietnam Tour
Highlights of Indochina from the back streets of old Hanoi to the fabulous temples of Angkor via Halong, Hoi An, Hue and the Mekong Delta
7 of Vietnam's World Heritage Sites plus the Mekong Delta and Angkor
Cambodia and Vietnam Tour
This exciting, 24-day Cambodia and Vietnam tour takes you from the narrow lanes of Vietnam’s charming capital Hanoi to the picturesque waterways of the Mekong Delta before travelling up the Mekong River to Phnom Penh and upcountry to the fabulous, World Heritage temples of Angkor.
Along the way we’ll visit no less than seven of Vietnam’s World Heritage Sites including Halong Bay, the landscapes of Trang An, spectacular caves of Phong Nha, ancient town of Hoi An and the ruined Cham capital of My Son. In addition to the best known sites we’ll include off-the-beaten-track, but equally spectacular, destinations such as the mountains of Phu Luong National Park, the jungle-lined streams of Ben Tre and the former, secret Vietcong base at Xe Quit.
Our Angkor tour also aims to combine the famous temples with some of the lesser-known ones while spreading a leisurely-paced programme over 3 days to avoid both the heat and chances of ‘temple fatigue’. (If you only visit this fabulous site once then you may as well do it properly!)
As with all our tours, accommodation is comfortable, mid-range – where possible smaller, independent, family-run – hotels and eco-lodges, while many of the meals are also included with the intention of providing a guided tour to the various local cuisines; as essential to discovering a new culture as museums and temples.
Time at leisure is also deliberately included, there can be a fair amount of travelling and Southeast Asia can be hot and while most accommodation choices come with pools and spa, tour-leaders are on hand with plenty of optional suggestions for the more active.
Note that a range of island extensions are on offer if you wish to add on a few days quality beach time after your tour.
Note also that a 27-day version of this tour, with the addition of a boat journey across the Tonle Sap Lake a day in Battambang and return to Phnom Penh is also available.
Includes: Flights: Danang to Saigon. Meals: B x 23, L x 14, D x 12
Tour
Itinerary
Here's an idea of what you can expect to do and see day-to-day.
Day 1 - Arrival in Hanoi and orientation walking tour
After lunch check-in to a downtown hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter followed by a leisurely, introductory walking tour to explore the area before a local-style welcome dinner. (An optional viewing of the unique water-puppet show can be arranged.)
Airport transfers included with the 'with flight' option
Overnight: Hanoi Transport: Walk, Meals: D,
Day 2 - Hanoi; museums, temples and the Old Quarter
Day tour of some of the sights of the old city, including the charming 11th-century University and Temple of Literature, the celebrated Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hoan Kiem Lake, the excellent Museum of Ethnology and, of course, iconic ‘Train Street’. A stroll through the fascinating lanes of the bustling Old Quarter completes our day.
Overnight: Hanoi Transport: Minibus, Walk, Meals: B, L,
Day 3 - Drive to Halong Port and afternoon cruise
Departure for Halong Port, where we’ll board our boat for an afternoon cruise through the awe-inspiring, limestone scenery of UNESCO-listed, World Heritage Halong Bay. Explore the islands and grottoes before dinner and overnight on board our well-appointed craft. (Cabins are air-con and en-suite.)
Overnight: Halong Bay Transport: Minibus, Boat, Meals: B, L, D,
Day 4 - Morning cruise and afternoon transfer to World Heritage Trang An
Early rise for dawn over Halong Bay, after which we’ll continue through the myriad picturesque limestone islets and outcrops with a midday return to Halong Port. An afternoon drive takes us to the small town of Tam Coc in Ninh Binh Province for an afternoon rowing boat tour through Trang An’s delightful labyrinth of caves, tunnels and emerald lagoons.
Overnight: Tam Coc Transport: Minibus, Boat, Meals: B, L,
Day 5 - Head north into the mountains
Time to head into the hills with our first stop being the picturesque town of Mai Chau in a scenic valley. Lunch is followed by a leisurely cycle through the surrounding paddy fields before a late afternoon arrival at a spectacularly located eco-resort overlooking the mountains of Pu Luong National Park.
Overnight: Pu Luong Transport: Minibus, Bike, Walk, Meals: B, L,
Day 6 - Nature hike and village visit
A one day exploration of scenic Pu Luong National Park includes a nature hike to discover the area’s varying ecosystems and plus, (water levels permitting), a bamboo rafting trip, as well as a visit to one of the local villages.
Overnight: Pu Luong Transport: Minibus, Walk, Meals: B,
Day 7 - Return to Hanoi for the Reunification Express
Optional morning hike or simply spend some time at leisure by the lodge’s spectacular infinity pool before an afternoon return drive to Hanoi, where we’ll catch the night sleeper train south. (Private cabins are available if required.)
Overnight: Sleeper train Transport: Minibus, Train, Walk, Meals: B, D,
Day 8 - World Heritage Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park
Early morning arrival in Dong Hoi from where we’ll head into the hills for a day’s exploration of magnificent World Heritage Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park. Discover the area’s primary forest, karst scenery and spectacular cave systems by foot and by boat. Overnight in a charming, family-run eco-resort.
Overnight: Phong Nha Transport: Minibus, Boat, Walk, Meals: B, L, D,
Day 9 - Through the DMZ to Ancient Hue
Our journey south to Hue takes us through the former, infamous DMZ (Demilitarised Zone) where we’ll stop to visit the fascinating, albeit sobering Vietcong tunnels at Vinh Moc and the famous Hien Luong Bridge on the 17th parallel which marked the pre-1975 border between South and North Vietnam. Arrival in Hue and time at leisure to stroll around the fun and friendly town.
Overnight: Hue Transport: Minibus, Walk, Meals: B, L, D,
Day 10 - Day tour of some of the sites of World Heritage Hue
A day spent visiting some of the stunning sights of the former imperial capital – now UNESCO World Heritage Site. A morning walk takes us to the vibrant city market and the iconic ancient citadel while the afternoon programme includes Thien Mu Pagoda and the spectacular pagodas, tomb and hunting park of Emperor Tu Duc.
Overnight: Hue Transport: Minibus, Walk, Meals: B, L,
Day 11 - Danang and the cave temples of Marble Mountain
Short, scenic drive to nearby Hoi An Town by way of the spectacular Hai Van Pass with a stop at Danang’s picturesque Marble Mountain and cave temple. Late afternoon walking tour of the well-preserved and charming old town of Hoi An – one of Southeast Asia’s most important ports during the 16th to 19th centuries.
Overnight: Hoi An Transport: Minibus, Walk, Meals: B, L,
Day 12 - Hoi An and the ancient Cham capital My Son
Early morning visit to the atmospheric ruined temples of ancient My Son – also World Heritage-listed and one of the capitals of the Cham civilisation from the 4th to 13th centuries. Return to Hoi An and an afternoon at leisure to explore further the picturesque old streets or perhaps visit the bustling silk market.
Overnight: Hoi An Transport: Minibus, Walk, Meals: B, D,
Day 14 - Tour of some of the sites of Ho Chi Minh City or Saigon to the locals
Day tour of some of Ho Chi Minh’s fascinating sites and vibrant street life, (still Saigon to many of the locals), including the bustling Ben Thanh Market, the sobering War Museum, picturesque Jade Emperor Pagoda and Saigon’s own, French-period, Notre Dame Cathedral.
Overnight: Saigon Transport: Minibus, Walk, Meals: B, L,
Day 15 - The Mekong Delta and Ben Tre
Early departure south for Ben Tre District in the picturesque Mekong Delta for an exploration of the region courtesy of a local, community-based tourism project. Discover the narrow, nipa palm-lined, tunnel-like channels by rowing boat and some of the area’s traditional cottage industries by motorboat, as well as a village market and quiet lanes by bicycle. In the afternoon, continue to Can Tho town with some time to check out the riverside promenade and cafes.
Overnight: Can Tho Transport: Minibus, Boat, Bike, Walk, Meals: B, L,
Day 16 - Floating market and a secret Vietcong base
Morning boat trip upstream to visit the famous Cai Rang floating market. Although today much reduced in size, the site still provides a colourful opportunity to discover the traditional heritage of the Mekong Delta. From here, we travel west to Xe (Xeo) Quit and a fascinating tour on foot and by boat of a former secret Vietcong base carved out of a jungle-covered swamp. After lunch, head to the small riverside town of Chau Doc near the Cambodian border, with time perhaps for riverside sundowners?
Overnight: Chau Doc Transport: Minibus, Boat, Meals: B, L,
Day 17 - A bird sanctuary and a sacred mountain
Departure for Tra Su Bird Sanctuary and another tour by rowing boat and motor boat of the picturesque waterways, before a return to Chau Doc and an afternoon visit to sacred Sam Mountain with its myriad shrines and temples, and its spectacular sunset views, including a cable car to the summit.
Overnight: Chau Doc Transport: Minibus, Train, Boat, Meals: B, L, D,
Day 18 - Up the Mekong to Phnom Penh
Back on the Mekong for a boat trip to Phnom Penh. Lunchtime arrival and check-in to a small, boutique-style, downtown hotel. Time to stretch your legs with an introductory tuk-tuk and walking tour, taking in the historic French Quarter and waterfront area as well as giving you a feel for the bustling street life, finishing perhaps, in a riverside cafe.
Overnight: Phnom Penh Transport: Boat, Walk, Tuk Tuk, Meals: B, D,
Day 19 - Phnom Penh - city tour of Cambodia's capital
Day tour of some of the sites of Cambodia’s fascinating capital city: the infamous Killing Fields site and the highly moving Khmer Rouge Genocide Museum at Tuol Sleng help to explain the country’s recent tragic history. The picturesque Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda will provide plenty of photo opportunities whilst the Russian Market offers some retail therapy and a chance for a local-style lunch.
Overnight: Phnom Penh Transport: Minibus, Walk, Meals: B, L,
Day 20 - Up country to Siem Reap
Travel through Cambodia’s scenic countryside to the small provincial town of Siem Reap in Western Cambodia – our base for the next few days while we visit the nearby Angkor temples. Stops on the way include the famous spider village of Skuon, (tasting not compulsory), a rarely visited but well-preserved 11th-century temple and lunch by a scenic lake. A sunset visit to the ruins of Banteay Kdei Temple completes our day.
Overnight: Siem Reap Transport: Minibus, Walk, Meals: B, L, D,
Day 21 - Sunrise at Angkor Wat and Bayon
Our Angkor programme begins with dawn at Angkor Wat, followed by a comprehensive morning tour of the temple itself. Late morning return to Siem Reap for lunch, siesta or relaxation and an afternoon walking tour of Angkor Tom: Leper King Terrace, Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, Elephant Terrace, Baphuon and last but not least, (we’ll wait until the crowds have gone), dramatic Bayon Temple with its famous faces.
Overnight: Siem Reap Transport: Minibus, Walk, Meals: B,
Day 22 - Angkor - Ta Prohm and jungle temples
Forest walk to the spectacular Phnom Bakheng Temple before moving on to the huge creeper-clad ruin of Preah Khan. Dense jungle, enormous roots and screeching parakeets make this atmospheric temple one of everyone’s favourites. After a break in Siem Reap, the afternoon continues with a short hike to Ta Keo via the remote and rarely-visited Ta Nei Temple. A visit to Ta Prom – the famous ‘Tomb Raider’ Temple – continues our jungle theme.
Overnight: Siem Reap Transport: Minibus, Walk, Meals: B,
Day 23 - Morning visit to Beng Melea and 'hero rats'
Morning trip to one of the more remote and less-visited temple sites. The truly spectacular Beng Melea. A huge, partially-ruined temple complex, overgrown by jungle, lying to the west of Siem Reap, is one of the most impressive Angkor monuments. Return to Siem Reap with an afternoon at leisure to relax by the pool, visit the National Museum, explore the markets or perhaps check out Apopo’s famous mine-detecting rats.
Overnight: Siem Reap Transport: Minibus, Walk, Meals: B, D,
Details
Further details, background info and answers to your burning questions.
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Highlights
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Map
Departures
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Hotels
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Visa Info & Notes
Just a few of the many highlights
Vietnam's World Heritage Sites including Hanoi old citadel, Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, Trang An, Phong Nha and My Son as well as Saigon, the Mekong Delta and Angkor Wat
- Includes seven Vietnamese and 2 Cambodian UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Featuring the lesser-known, off-the-beaten-track sites as well as the well-known 'must sees'
- A range of optional beach and island add-ons for some 'R and R' after your tour
- Overnight cruise - with air-con, ensuite cabins - on picturesque Halong Bay
- Comprehensive but leisurely-paced 3-day tour of the temples of Angkor
- ...and of course plenty of friendly locals as well as a guided tour of the superb local cuisines
Air Departures (UK) *From
- 26 November 26 3,950 GBP
- 23 December 26 4,150 GBP
- 20 February 27 3,949 GBP
- 4 May 27 3,950 GBP
- 6 June 27 3,950 GBP
- 11 July 27 3,950 GBP
- 15 August 27 4,050 GBP
- 3 October 27 3,950 GBP
- 7 November 27 3,950 GBP
- 12 December 27 4,050 GBP
Land Departures
- 27 November 26 3,100 GBP
- 24 December 26 3,100 GBP
- 21 February 27 3,100 GBP
- 5 May 27 3,100 GBP
- 7 June 27 3,100 GBP
- 12 July 27 3,100 GBP
- 16 August 27 3,100 GBP
- 4 October 27 3,100 GBP
- 8 November 27 3,100 GBP
- 13 December 27 3,100 GBP
Guaranteed Places Left Special Price Contact Us Closed
*As fares are fluctuating wildly at present all ‘with flight’ prices are approximate.
*Air departures are from the UK. Land departures start from Hanoi.
*Land departure dates correspond to the FIRST day of the itinerary.
We choose our hotels based on a combination of location, comfort and convenience. Here is a *selection of the types of hotel/rooms you can expect to stay at on this tour...
Thang Long Opera view
- Great location between the French Quarter and the Old Town
- Excellent in-house restaurant with a street-side terrace
- Welcoming, helpful staff well-appointed rooms
Victory Star Halong Bay view
- Overnight on a boat in UNESCO Halong Bay
- Excellently appointed and comfortable private cabins
- 1 day, 1 night cruise of this fabulous World Heritage Site
Nan House, Tam Coc view
- Small, cosy and exceptionally friendly family-run guesthouse
- Spacious and comfortable rooms are air-con and ensuite
- Small pool and free bicycles for guests' use
Pu Luong Eco Garden view
- Well-appointed and beautifully-located eco lodge
- Delightful garden setting and stream fed infinity pool
- Convenient setting on the edge of Pu Luong National Park
Vietnamese sleeper train
- We use 4-person, air-con sleeping berths
- Berths equipped with reading lights & elecric sockets
- Upgrades to private cabins available if desired
Greenfield Eco-stay view
- Friendly, low-key, family-run eco resort
- Garden setting with goods-ized pool and great views
- Comfortable rooms with a/c, balconies and en-suite bathrooms
Emm Hotel Hue view
- Convenient central location in Hue City
- Well appointed with in-house restaurant, bar and pool
- Particularly friendly and helpful staff
Gem Riverside Hoi An view
- Well-appointed rooms with pool, restaurant and gym
- Excellent location; quiet yet a short walk from the Old Town
- Free bicycles available to explore the area
Sanouva Hotel Saigon view
- Excellent central location in downtown Saigon's District 1
- Plenty of cafes, restaurants and sites within a short walk
- Small, low-key hotel with friendly and efficient staff
TTC Hotel Can Tho view
- Excellent facilities including pool, gym, spa, restaurant
- Ideal location close to the waterfront area and old market
- Rooftop coffee shop with panoramic river views
Chau Pho Hotel view
- Comfortable mid-range hotel in off-the-beaten-track Chau Doc
- Convenient location, a short walk from the riverfront
- Friendly staff and in-house bar and restaurant
Patio Hotel and Urban Resort view
- Convenient central location nearby shops, cafes, restaurants
- Comfortable, well-appointed and well-decorated
- Spectacular rooftop infinity pool
Pierre Hotel Siem Reap view
- Great riverside location close to the town centre
- In-house pool, bar, coffee shop and restaurant
- Low-key, friendly staff and atmosphere
*This list should be considered a guide only, hotels/rooms may change (without notice) depending on availability.
Visa Info & Notes
Visas – Vietnam: Visas are no longer required for citizens of certain, (mainly Western European), countries including France, Spain, Italy, Germany, Scandinavian nations and the UK for single-entry visits of up to 45 days. (As of 15th August 2023.)
Note that there are some notable omissions from the list – Belgium and the Netherlands for example – as well as Canada, Australia, NZ and the US. For passport holders of countries not covered under the waiver scheme, a visa, or visa on arrival certificate, must be obtained before arrival in Vietnam and we strongly advise checking the latest requirements at your nearest Vietnamese consulate.
Visas are available from your nearest Vietnamese consulate or embassy at a cost of about £40 (c. $60). (Costs do vary from country to country.) Further information, as well as e-visas on arrival, are also available online at the following link: Vietnam e-visa. (You may find numerous, additional agents’ sites advertising Vietnam e-visas, although bear in mind a commission will be charged.)
Visas – Cambodia: For the majority of nationalities, a visa on arrival is issued at airports and all land borders used on our tours. Visa fees and conditions are subject to change but are usually $30 payable in cash in US dollars. A passport photo is required. Tourist visas are issued for 30 days from entry into Cambodia. You are also required to complete an online, e-arrival form within 7 days prior to your arrival.
Both:
The standard entry point for the Vietnam section of this tour is Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi) and the exit point is Vinh Xuong international land and river border gate, An Giang province (Song Tien Landport). (A Vietnam e-visa is valid for exit.) For the Cambodia section, the entry point is Kaoam Samnor and exit point Angkor International Airport, Siem Reap. At the time of writing Cambodian e-visas were not accepted at the entry point although visas on arrival are issued at the border for c. $30 p/p. (Boat staff and/or guide will facilitate the procedure and a ‘service charge’ of $4-5 is well worth paying.)
Passport:
Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Vietnam and Cambodia. You may be refused entry if your passport is damaged, in poor condition or does not have at least 2 blank pages remaining.
Tipping: There is no compulsory ground payment but we do recommend a kitty system for the smaller, daily tips such as hotel/restaurant staff and local drivers. Amounts inevitably vary with group size but would generally be in the region of $70-80 total per person for the 24-day tour. With regards to guides accompanying you for longer periods we’d recommend a separate tip of approximately $5 per person, per day though of course, this is always discretionary and performance-related. (Local currency or USD are fine.)
Meals: Breakfasts are generally hotel buffets with lunch and dinners based on local food. Lunches on the road are typically simpler dishes such as variations on noodles, fried rice etc while your tour leader will generally order more elaborate-style dinners consisting of a selection of local fare.
Both Khmer and Vietnamese dishes are only mildly spicy and both vegetarians and vegans are very easily catered for. For any other likes and dislikes please remind your tour leader at the start of the tour. A number of meals are not included, which allows you to ‘do your own thing’ or take a break if you’re feeling ‘riced out’.
Accommodation: Generally, choices fall into the boutique-style 3* range and are en-suite, air-conditioned and where possible, with pools. We have posted a selection of sample accommodation on the left-hand hotel tab but please note that as we try and avoid the larger hotels, availability, in high season particularly, means we use several options in each destination.
Activities: Note that no activities are compulsory and that any offered can be tailored for various fitness levels or alternatives suggested.
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