Journey Through Vietnam and Cambodia: 16-Day Expedition

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Overview

Explore the wonders of Southeast Asia with our "Journey Through Vietnam & Cambodia: 16-Day Expedition." Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Hanoi, cruise through the breathtaking Halong Bay, discover the cultural heritage of Hue, wander the charming streets of Hoi An Old Town, and unwind in the serene Hoi An countryside.

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Saigon on an exhilarating motorbike adventure, venture into the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, and sail through the picturesque Mekong Delta, where you'll witness the lively Cai Rang floating market and the natural beauty of Tra Su National Park.

Continue your journey to Cambodia's capital, Phnom Penh, and then explore the ancient wonders of Siem Reap, including the iconic Angkor highlights. Embark on a 16-day expedition that promises unforgettable memories, diverse experiences, and a deep connection with the heart of Vietnam and Cambodia. 

 

Itinerary at a glance

  • Day 1: Hanoi arrival
  • Day 2: Hanoi city tour
  • Day 3: Hanoi - Halong
  • Day 4: Halong - Hanoi - Hue
  • Day 5: Hue cultural heritage
  • Day 6: Hue - Hai Van Pass - Hoi An Old town
  • Day 7: Hoi An countryside
  • Day 8: Hoi An - Danang - Ho Chi Minh city
  • Day 9: Cu Chi tunnels
  • Day 10: Ho Chi Minh city - Vinh Long - Can Tho
  • Day 11: Can Tho - Tra Su National Park - Chau Doc
  • Day 12: Chau Doc - Phnom Penh
  • Day 13: Phnom Penh - Siem Reap
  • Day 14: Siem Reap - Angkor highlights
  • Day 15: Siem Reap - Angkor highlights
  • Day 16: Siem Reap departure

Day 1 Hanoi arrival

Meal: not included | Accommodation: in Hanoi

Arriving at Noi Bai airport in Hanoi, you’ll find our driver waiting to take you to your hotel in the city center. Time for relaxing after the journey. You’ll spend the night in Hanoi.

Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is a captivating destination that offers travelers a rich blend of history, culture, and vibrant urban life. Located in the northern part of the country, the city is known for its seamless blending of tradition with modernity, making it a must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience the heart and soul of Vietnam. Whether you're interested in history, cuisine, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, Hanoi has something for all.

 

Day 2 Hanoi Orientation

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hanoi

Your day begins at 8:00 a.m. with a warm hotel pick-up, where we'll whisk you away to start your day orientating around Hanoi.

First, we'll delve into Vietnam's rich educational heritage with a visit to the prestigious Temple of Literature. Be enchanted by the beautiful architecture and tranquil gardens of this ancient university, a symbol of wisdom and intellectual achievement. Next, prepare to be captivated by the diversity of Vietnamese culture at the Museum of Ethnology. Immerse yourself in the fascinating exhibits that showcase the country's ethnic groups, their traditional customs, and colorful heritage.

After a delightful lunch tantalizing your taste buds with authentic Hanoi cuisine, in the afternoon, we continue our journey with a visit to the iconic Ho Chi Minh Complex to gain insight into the life of Vietnam's beloved leader as we explore the Presidential Palace, Stilt House, and One Pillar Pagoda.

Next, we'll immerse ourselves in Hanoi's bustling heart, the Old Quarter, navigating its charming alleys and partaking in an enticing street food tasting to savor the city's culinary delights. Finally, we'll be awed by the mesmerizing Water Puppet Show, a traditional art form that brings age-old tales to life. Back to your hotel before sunset time.

 

Day 3 Hanoi - Halong Bay

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hanoi

8:00 to 8:30 am we will pick you up at your hotel and leave on our shuttle bus for a 3.5-hour drive to Halong City. 

Upon arrival, we'll board the Treasure Junk for a delightful cruise through Halong Bay, savoring a delicious seafood lunch (vegetarian and kid's options available). After lunch, take it easy and soak in the breathtaking scenery of limestone formations rising from the emerald water. Our first stop awaits at the convergence of Halong and Bai Tu Long waters, where you'll have the chance to paddle through the bay with our kayaks. As the sun sets, enjoy a cocktail on board while we sail to our night anchorage spot. Dinner will be served indoors or outdoors, depending on the weather. You'll spend the night in our comfortable, air-conditioned cabins with en-suite bathrooms aboard the Treasure.

Note: On our way to Halong, we will stop at a place with food, beverages, and souvenirs for sale. Please bear in mind that we are not trying to incite you to buy any product. This is just the only place on the way with proper facilities that our travelers, guides, and drivers can use without being forced to buy anything. Thanks for your understanding.

 

Day 4 Halong - Hanoi - Hue

Meal: breakfast, lunch, dinner | Accommodation: in Hue

Awaken to the serene misty bay at 6:30 a.m., where coffee, tea, and cakes await. You can choose to energize your body, mind, and soul with a 30-minute Tai Chi session led by our onboard master or simply bask in the sun with coffee. Later, embark on a bamboo boat to explore a secluded floating village, meandering through floating houses and rowing boats serving various purposes. Returning to the Treasure before 9:00 am, we'll cruise back to the pier, followed by a brunch at 9:30. As we bid farewell to the majestic rocks guarding the kingdom, we'll head to the pier and get a transfer back to Hanoi by our shuttle bus. 

You'll have free time until our driver arrives to take you to Hanoi airport for your flight to Hue. Upon arrival in Hue, our local guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel for your overnight accommodation. 

 

Day 5 Hue Cultural Heritage

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hue

8:00 - pick up from your hotel, your exploration begins with a scenic boat trip along the serene Perfume River, leading you to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a symbol of the city's historical significance dating back to the 17th century. Following this, a comfortable car transfer will take you to the Imperial Citadel, where you'll stroll along the ancient ramparts and delve into the intriguing relics nestled within. Savor the flavors of Hue during a delectable lunch at a local restaurant, where you'll indulge in the city's specialty dishes. 

In the afternoon, the exploration continues with a visit to the majestic Minh Mang Tomb, showcasing the grandeur of imperial architecture. Wrap up your day by visiting a delightful garden house in Thuy Bieu village, offering you the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing tea break with the welcoming host and engage in any questions you may have.

 

Day 6 Hue - Hai Van Pass - Hoi An Old Town

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hoi An.

9:00 am - depart from your hotel to Danang via the awe-inspiring Hai Van Pass. Get ready to go through a truly beautiful coastal road! The views from the top are simply excellent; we should be able to see Lang Co beach, the Laguna far below, and Danang spreading out in the south. We will understand why this is considered the prettiest road in the country. 

Once in Danang, we will have time to make a stop en route at the Marble Mountains before settling down at our address in Hoi An.

In the afternoon, we discover the enchanting beauty of Hoi An's Old Town on foot. Strolling through the ancient streets, you'll be captivated by the significant architecture that has earned Hoi An a UNESCO World Heritage status. Our guide will regale you with captivating tales and historical anecdotes, allowing you to truly appreciate the charm of this historic gem.

A visit to Hoi An is incomplete without trying one of the city's delectable street foods. We’ll take you to a local spot where you can relish the mouthwatering flavors of Vietnam, and choose a savory delicacy or a sweet treat that will tantalize your taste buds.

 

Day 7 Hoi An organic farm with cooking experience

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hoi An

At 8:00 a.m., we whisk you away from your hotel and set off on two wheels towards the Thanh Dong organic farm. Feel the invigorating breeze caress your face as we pedal along scenic pathways, passing through charming local villages and verdant paddy fields.

Upon arriving at the Thanh Dong village, we leave our bikes behind and experience a short ride by basket boats - a unique way of riding along the coco-palm river. Disembarking from the boat ride, we dive into the heart of sustainable agriculture. The farm's tranquil setting beckons us to reconnect with nature and embrace the farming traditions of Vietnam. Led by knowledgeable locals, we partake in traditional farming activities, gaining first-hand insight into the methods that have sustained generations. 

Next, it's time to unlock the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine during an interactive cooking class. Under the expert guidance of skilled chefs, we learn to craft mouthwatering dishes using the freshest farm produce. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the fruits of your labor as we savor a delectable lunch, celebrating the harmony of flavors and regional specialties.

The trip ends with a transfer back to your hotel around 1:00 PM. The rest of the day is free at your leisure.

Total cycling distance is around 4 km (by city bicycles and at an easy level). If cycling is something not your favorite, a transfer by local motorbike or electric-cart can be arranged with a surcharge. 

 

Day 8 Hoi An - Danang - Ho Chi Minh City

Meal: breakfast, dinner | Accommodation: in Ho Chi Minh City

Savor your free time at your own pace until our driver comes to bring you to Danang Airport, where your flight to Ho Chi Minh City awaits. Upon landing in Ho Chi Minh City, our dedicated guide will be on hand to warmly welcome you at the airport and provide a transfer to your hotel. 

In the early evening, let’s adventure through the heart of Saigon after dark by joining our thrilling Night Motorbike Tour. Picked up from your hotel at 18:00, hopping onto a motorbike to join the city's vibrant rush-hour traffic. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting an open market, where the sights, sounds, and aromas of Vietnam come alive. Indulge your taste buds with a tantalizing array of street food, each a renowned gem of Saigon's culinary scene. Your journey takes a unique turn as you explore an old apartment building, a living testament to Saigon's history since 1968. Step inside a local family's home to gain deeper insights into Saigon's authentic way of life. This tour isn't just a ride; it's an exploration of Saigon's soul, its nightlife, and the hidden treasures that come alive in the moonlit hours.

 

Day 9 Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi tunnels

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Ho Chi Minh City

In the morning, we'll pick you up from your hotel and transport you to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, where you'll immerse yourself in the rich wartime history of Vietnam. Discover the intricate tunnel network, learn about guerrilla warfare tactics, and gain a deeper appreciation for the resilience of the Vietnamese people. 

Back to the city center for lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, we'll switch gears and head to District 1 for an easy walk among stunning French colonial architecture, breathing life into Saigon's heritage. We may start with the Reunification Palace, and continue to the City Hall, Opera House, Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, and the Central Post Office. There is also time for a delightful coffee break in a retro apartment building, providing a unique perspective on Saigon's vibrant culture. 

 

Day 10 Ho Chi Minh City - Cai Be - Can Tho

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Can Tho

8:00 AM pick-up from your hotel, followed by a comfort car transfer to Cai Be. 

At 10:30 AM, we arrive at Cai Be, where you'll step aboard a traditional wooden boat, setting the stage for an exploration of the Mekong waterways. As we cruise along the river, you'll have the chance to hop on bicycles and delve into the charming river island landscapes. Along the way, we'll stop to visit local houses and farms, immersing you in their traditional crafts, offering delightful local snacks, and seasonal fruit tastings. A sumptuous lunch awaits you at a local restaurant, providing a taste of authentic Mekong flavors. 

At 4:00 PM, we disembark in Vinh Long and continue your journey with a car transfer to Can Tho, where you check in at your hotel and enjoy the night in this “megacity” of the Mekong Delta.

 

Day 11 Can Tho - Tra Su - Chau Doc

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Chau Doc

After breakfast, we would start early to see the Cai Rang floating market to its fullest. While our boat glides slowly through the market mayhem, please feel free to take photographs, talk, or bargain with local vendors. There are fantastic photo opportunities amidst the variety of agricultural bounties on sale here. 

We’ll then go back to the hotel for check-out. At 9:00 – We continue with our journey and arrive at  Tra Su National Park by noon time. A short walk from the parking area will take us to the small pier where a boat will await to take us deeper into the mangrove forest. We will soon find ourselves zipping through a living carpet of water lettuce, passing birds of all shapes and colors. We will enjoy a simple lunch at a local restaurant in the heart of the forest before making our way back and settling down at our hotel in Chau Doc around 17:00.

 

Day 12 Chau Doc - Phnom Penh

Meal: breakfast | Accommodation: in Phnom Penh

Early in the morning (around 6:45), we will be picked up from our hotel to the boat pier where we will embark on a speed boat for a 4-hour – 5.5 hours (depending on traffic and visa arrangements) ride to Phnom Penh. Upon arrival in Phnom Penh, you will be met and greeted by our driver and get a private transfer to your hotel for check-in.

In the afternoon, our guide will lead you through the heart of Phnom Penh, taking you to its most iconic landmarks. Discover the grandeur of the Royal Palace, a magnificent structure that showcases the rich heritage of the Cambodian monarchy. Adjacent to the Royal Palace, you will visit the awe-inspiring Silver Pagoda, known for its floor adorned with over 5,000 silver tiles and a priceless collection of Buddha statues. You’ll spend the night in Phnom Penh.

Day 13 Phnom Penh - Siem Reap. Tonle Sap. Phare circus.

Meal: breakfast | Accommodation: in Siem Reap

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for the flight from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. On arrival in Siem Reap, be greeted and transfer to the hotel for check in.

In the afternoon we will head to Tonle Sap and visit one of its floating communities - the Chong Kneas Village. Upon reaching the boat dock, you'll board a traditional long-tail boat, which is a common mode of transportation in the area. These boats are equipped to navigate through the intricate waterways and provide an authentic experience.  We explore the village built on stilts and rafts, witnessing the daily lives of the locals engaged in fishing and aquaculture. Discover floating houses, markets, and even a basketball court. Sail through the beautiful mangrove forests and learn about their ecological importance. Afterward, we will return to Siem Reap by road.

In the evening we’ll enjoy the Phare circus show. This unique circus combines acrobatics, theater, music, and storytelling to create a captivating cultural experience. The talented performers, trained by Phare Ponleu Selpak, showcase traditional Cambodian arts with a modern twist. The show's high energy, spectacular acts, and engaging storytelling keep audiences enthralled. 

 

Day 14 Ta Prohm - Takeo - Banteay Samre - Banteay Srei

Meal: breakfast | Accommodation: in Siem Reap

We begin our day by rising early to visit Ta Prohm, an abandoned temple overtaken by nature. As we explore its unique atmosphere, we witness the tree roots slowly engulfing the surviving stones, symbolizing the clash between human creations and the relentless forces of nature. Next, we continue to the impressive pyramid of Takeo, one of the tallest temples in Angkor. Though construction was never completed, speculation surrounds the reasons, ranging from a lightning strike during its building to the challenging task of carving the durable sandstone. We also have the option to see the remnants of an ancient Angkorian bridge and visit the smaller temples of Chau Sey Devada and Thommanon.

In the afternoon, we travel through the traditional village of Preah Dak to the restored 12th-century temple of Banteay Samre. Noteworthy for its use of laterite in the roofed corridors due to limited sandstone availability, this temple showcases exceptional carvings above the inner doors. Continuing north, we reach Banteay Srei, an exquisite pink temple renowned as Angkor's ultimate art gallery. Its elaborate carvings, considered too fine for male craftsmanship, have captivated visitors for centuries. While its origins were thought to be from a later period, inscriptions suggest it was built in 967 by a Brahman, representing a pinnacle in Khmer sculpture.

 

Day 15 Angkor Wat - Angkor Thom - Bayon

Meal: breakfast | Accommodation: in Siem Reap

We rise at dawn to embark on our journey to the majestic Angkor Wat, the largest religious building in the world. This 12th-century temple, a symbol of Khmer pride and strength, captivates with its perfect blend of symbolism and symmetry. Exploring the intricate bas-reliefs that stretch for nearly a kilometer, we unravel the tales of Hindu mythology and the glories of the Khmer empire. Ascending to the upper levels of the sanctuary, we experience the steep final steps leading to the sacred heart of Angkor Wat, where spirituality and symmetry converge in an awe-inspiring manner.

In the afternoon, we venture into the immense walled city of Angkor Thom, an architectural masterpiece by King Jayavarman VII. With its staggering scale, the city leaves us in awe as we approach its gates. The causeway adorned with a captivating bridge depicting the Churning of the Ocean of Milk sets the stage for our exploration. We begin at the Terrace of the Leper King, originally thought to represent a leprous ruler but now believed to depict Yama, the god of death. Continuing along the Terrace of Elephants, once a grand viewing gallery, we reach the resplendent Baphuon temple, meticulously restored and open to visitors. Our ultimate highlight is the enchanting Bayon temple, located at the center of Angkor Thom. Its iconic 54 towers, crowned with the serene faces of Avalokiteshvara, exude both power and compassion. We unravel the mysteries of the bas-reliefs, portraying ancient battles and snapshots of everyday life during the Angkor period, before embarking on a climb upward.

 

Day 16 Siem Reap departure

Meal: breakfast | Accommodation: not included

Enjoy your time at leisure until our driver arrives to transfer to the airport for your onward departure flight.

Price

Please SEND INQUIRY or CONTACT our travel consultant at info@handspan.com for the best offers.

Included

  • Accommodation as specified in the program.
  • Meals as specified.
  • Travel in an appropriate air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced driver.
  • The services of an experienced English-speaking guide.
  • All entrance fees, visits, and activities as mentioned in the program.
  • VAT and other taxes.

Excluded

  • Flight tickets or visas.
  • Beverages, gratuities, and personal expenses.
  • Personal travel insurance.
  • Supplements in peak season.

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