Vietnam and Cambodia Grand Journey

Duration

14 days

Departure weekly

every Wednesday

Guaranteed

with 2 travellers

Max group size

16 travellers

WHAT TO EXPECT

Experience the best of Vietnam and Cambodia on this 14-day journey. Explore the vibrant cities of Hanoi, Saigon, and Phnom Penh, uncover the rich history of Hue and Hoi An, and cruise through the stunning landscapes of Halong Bay and the Mekong Delta. Witness the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat at sunrise, visit the fascinating Cu Chi Tunnels, and discover ancient temples in Siem Reap. Highlights include a Halong Bay cruise, UNESCO heritage sites in Hoi An and Angkor, and a unique visit to the floating villages of Kampong Phluk. Immerse yourself in the culture, cuisine, and history of these remarkable destinations.

Vietnam and Cambodia Grand Journey

  • Day 1: Arrival and Xin Chao to Hanoi

    On arrival in Hanoi, transfer to your hotel and enjoy free. Stay the next two nights at Flower Garden Hotel Hanoi (or similar).

  • Day 2: Hanoi (B)

    This morning, meet your guide at your hotel and depart on your tour after breakfast. Your first stop will be the popular Hoan Kiem Lake, situated in the heart of Hanoi city and Dong Xuan market. Your next stop will be Ho Chi Minh complex comprising Ba Dinh Square, Presidential Palace (for outside photo taken), as well as his private residence from 1954 until 1969. The wooden ethnic minority style house, which was built on stilts, is surrounded by lovely peaceful gardens. In the same complex you will see the One Pillar Pagoda, founded by King Ly Thai To in 1049. This structure has become an important symbol for the people of Hanoi. After your own lunch, continuing on to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university. Constructed in 1070, the gardens and well-preserved architecture offer a relaxing glimpse into Vietnam’s past. You will then visit Hoa Lo Prison (formerly known as the “Hanoi Hilton” during the American war). Your tour will also include the historical St Joseph’s Cathedral. The last stop of the day before returning to your hotel will be the visit the Opera House then stroll around the bustling Old Quarter, find a street side café and sip a cup of traditional Vietnamese coffee especially coffee with eggs while watching a bit of people passing by. Overnight in Hanoi.

  • Day 3: Hanoi to Halong Bay (B/L/D)

    Pick up at your hotel around 7:30 AM and transfer by shuttle bus from Hanoi to Halong City, the gateway to Halong Bay. On arrival, board a well-appointed junk boat, enjoy a delicious lunch and begin cruising among some of the 3,000 islands which rise from the sea. In the evening, retreat to your private cabin, or relax on the main deck or at the bar. Overnight on-board Victory Star Cruise (or similar).

  • Day 4: Halong Bay to Hue (B)

    Take part in a sunrise Tai Chi lesson on the sundeck before enjoying brunch on board. Cruise back to port to disembark. Drive back to Hanoi by shuttle bus and drop off at a point where you will meet the driver and move to the airport. Fly to the former imperial capital of Hue. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for check in and an afternoon at leisure. Enjoy your stay for the coming evening at the Alba Spa Hotel (or similar).

  • Day 5: Hue to Hoi An (B)

    This morning you will be met at your hotel at 8am by your guide for a half day city tour of Hue. We start by viewing the tomb of the fourth emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty Tu Duc which is set beautifully amongst lakes & frangipani trees. Next, we explore the impressive home of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors - the Citadel. Graded as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993, much of the Citadel was destroyed during the Tet Offensive in 1968 but is gradually being restored. We finish with a short drive to the much-revered Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue’s oldest and most beautiful. After that, you will leave Hue for Hoi An. The guide and driver will take you over the beautiful Hai Van Pass - Vietnam's geographical and psychological boundary between north and south. The peak of the pass lies perpetually shrouded in clouds. Upon arrival, transfer to hotel for check-in. This evening is free for you to explore Hoi An at leisure. Stay the next two nights at Hoian Central Boutique Hotel (or similar).

  • Day 6: Hoi An (B)

    In the morning, you will begin your walking tour of this UNESCO world heritage site. Hoi An was once Vietnam’s most active trading centre and over many centuries the Old Town has been largely preserved. The architecture of the city reflects the influence of Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese, French and British traders. Hoi An is also the town where French Missionary Alexandre De Rhodes introduced Catholicism to Vietnam as well as the Romanised script that has become the standard Vietnamese script. Today you will be guided on a walking tour through the streets of enchanting Hoi An. You will visit a traditional ancient house, the Hoi An Museum, a Chinese Assembly Hall, Chau Ong pagoda and the Japanese Covered Bridge. The tour will end in Hoi An Ancient Town where you can enjoy more time at your leisure. Overnight in Hoian.

  • Day 7: Hoi An to Saigon (B)

    After breakfast, take a short drive to Danang for your flight to Saigon. Upon arrival at Saigon airport, your guide and private car will pick up and begin your journey out to Cu Chi Tunnels. On arrival you will watch a short DVD explaining the history of the tunnel network. Following this you will be guided through the famous tunnels as used by the communist guerrillas during the Vietnam War. The tunnel network stretches over 250km and extends to three levels underground providing you with a remarkable insight into the hardships, courage, determination and terror of a guerrilla war. The tunnels were used by Viet Cong soldiers as hiding spots during combat, as well as serving as communication and supply routes, hospitals, food and weapon caches and living quarters for numerous North Vietnamese fighters. The tunnel systems were of great importance to the Viet Cong in their resistance to American forces, and helped to counter the growing American military effort. The vast majority of the network has been recreated above ground however you will have the option to head underground & experience what life was like below the surface. Return to Saigon and check-in at hotel. On returning to Saigon, spend the remainder of day enjoying the various sights and sounds of the boisterous city. Enjoy your stay for the coming evening at Paragon Hotel (or similar).

  • Day 8: Saigon to Mekong Delta (B/L/D)

    This morning you will be met at your hotel at 8am by your guide for a full day tour traveling south from Ho Chi Minh City, to the small town of Ben Tre in the Mekong Delta. Known as the "rice bowl" of Vietnam, the Delta is the most fertile region in the country and the main producer of rice and tropical fruits. Board your boat to begin your exploration of the mighty Mekong River as well as its narrow canals, gaining a real insight into the lives of the local people. Visit a local factory to see bricks being hand-made the old-fashioned way using traditional kiln technique. Stop at a riverside coconut processing factory and in the home of a local family who weave mats using local materials. Take a Pedicab & head for a delicious lunch featuring local specialties including Elephant Ear Fish. On your return from the Delta, make a brief stop at a Cao Dai pagoda, a uniquely Vietnamese sect that is a dizzying combination all the world’s great religion’s including Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Hinduism, Christianity and Islam. Return to your hotel late afternoon where your tour ends. Lunch included. Arrive back to Saigon to join your group for a farewell dinner at an authentic Vietnamese restaurant: HOME Vietnamese Sai Gon. Overnight in Saigon.

  • Day 9: Saigon to Phnom Penh (B)

    08:00- Today you will be met at your hotel by your guide for a morning walking tour through the heart of Saigon’s famous and historic city landmarks including Dong Khoi Street, the Rex Hotel, Municipal Theatre, Hotel de Ville, Nguyen Hue Boulevard, Post Office & Notre Dame Cathedral and Reunification Palace (outside only). You will then join your vehicle and drive to the site of the former US Embassy (now the US consulate) before visiting War Remnants Museum. Later travel to Binh Thanh district and visit Ba Chieu local wholesale market in the East of Saigon, before visiting the Ngoc Hoang (Jade Emperor) Pagoda. This popular 124-year-old pagoda, houses a number of intricate sculptures and woodcarvings. Enjoy these last moments in Saigon before our guide and driver transfer you to the airport for your onward journey to Phnom Penh. On arrival in Phnom Penh, you will get a transfer to your hotel. Enjoy some free time to unwind until you meet your fellow travellers over welcome drinks while your Tour Leader explains some important details and logistics of the journey ahead.

  • Day 10: Phnom Penh (B)

    Explore Phnom Penh with Cyclo (Bicycle Rickshaw), a chaotic, energetic and always fascinating city. Start our tour at Wat Phnom, the birthplace of the capital. Then, visit to the Royal Palace, the residence of King Norodom Sihamoni, the Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum, which contains a comprehensive collection of Khmer art. Then, visit of Phnom Penh’s great markets, the Central Market, a labyrinth of stalls selling everything from CDs and DVDs to silks, crafts, jewelry and more. In the afternoon by private vehicle, visit Sleng Museum, formerly a High School which became the interrogation and torture facility for the Khmer Rouge regime.

  • Day 11: Phnom Penh to Siem Reap (B)

    In the morning, enjoy an overland transfer from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. Along the way, we will make stops at the infamous spider and insect market in Skun, as well as the stone mason village near Santuk. Before reaching Siem Reap city, visit the floating village of Kampong Phluk. This isolated community consists of three villages built on stilts, providing a unique and scenic experience. The villages are flooded for approximately half of the year (August/September – February), allowing for visits by local boats and contributing to the local community’s income. If the water level of the lake permits, we will take a small rowing boat through the flooded mangrove forests. This exceptional ecosystem thrives in the wet soil for half of the year, supporting a diverse range of wildlife. Afterward, return by boat and continue the journey by vehicle to Siem Reap, where you will check in at your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.

  • Day 12: Siem Reap (B)

    Today we start at pre-dawn to witness the breathtaking sunrise over Angkor Wat. After sunrise visit the bas-relief and central complex of Angkor in the quiet early morning. Breakfast is served at a local restaurant near the temple complex. Continue to the Southern Gate of Angkor Thom ‘Great City’. This will include many of the finest Temples of King Jayavarman VII, who ruled from 1181 to 1220. Marvel at the imposing 23m (75-foot) high stone faces of Avalokiteshvara, featured in the Tomb Raider movie. At the center of this citadel lies the state temple of Bayon, built at the end of the 12th century and adorned with hundreds of gigantic stone faces. The tour also includes the Terrace of Elephants, the Terrace of the Leper King. Later in the day you will discover the most famous temples from the 11th century: Baphuon, Phimeanakas. Continue the day by visiting Ta Prohm, known for the massive trees with thick roots that entangle the walls. Return to Siem Reap.

  • Day 13: Siem Reap (B/L/D)

    Start your day with a visit to the local market at Damdek before continuing your journey to Beng Mealea temple. Beng Mealea is built from perfectly-squared sandstone blocks, still partly buried under vegetation. The temple’s outstanding decoration dates back to the first half of the 12th century, featuring pediments sculpted with narrative scenes from the Ramayana. While Hindu iconographic themes are prevalent, Beng Mealea is primarily a Buddhist sanctuary, similar to Banteay Samre. Confirming this is the magnificent statue of the Bodhisattva Lokeshvara discovered within the monument, now housed at the Angkor Conservancy. Enjoy some lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Banteay Srei temple. Stop and visit the Landmine Museum, established in 1997. See defused and safe landmines up close, learn about their workings and how you can contribute to the ongoing efforts of clearing these weapons worldwide. On the return journey, visit a local village to see the local sugar palm production. In the evening enjoy a sumptuous Khmer Farewell Dinner in a beautiful local restaurant.

  • Day 14: Departure from Siem Reap (B)

    It’s time to say goodbye, but just think of all the wonderful stories you will take home. A transfer will take you to the airport for your onward travel.

Inclusions

  • Insider Experiences

    Unique - River cruising on Halong Bay and overnight onboard
    Unique - Tai Chi lesson on Halong Bay at sunrise
    Arts & Craft - Apsara dance performances
    Social - Visit of the isolated community of Kampong Pluk
    Unique - Sunrise over Angkor Wat temples

  • Accommodation

    12 nights in 4 star hotels
    1 night on a boat

  • Meals

    Daily breakfast
    4 local lunches
    3 local dinners

  • Transport

    Airport transfer on arrival and departure
    Air-conditioned vehicle
    All flight specified in itinerary

  • Touring

    English speaking tour guide
    All entrance fees
    All tipping

SKU: IJDB-SGJ-75-2024 / 2025 / 2026 Categories: , , Tags: , , ,

Departure Dates

START DAYEND DAY
Wednesday, 4 December 2024Tuesday, 17 December 2024
Wednesday, 11 December 2024Tuesday, 24 December 2024
Wednesday, 18 December 2024Tuesday, 31 December 2024
Wednesday, 25 December 2024Tuesday, 7 January 2025
Wednesday, 1 January 2025Tuesday, 14 January 2025
Wednesday, 8 January 2025Tuesday, 21 January 2025
Wednesday, 15 January 2025Tuesday, 28 January 2025
Wednesday, 22 January 2025Tuesday, 4 February 2025
Wednesday, 29 January 2025Tuesday, 11 February 2025
Wednesday, 5 February 2025Tuesday, 18 February 2025
Wednesday, 12 February 2025Tuesday, 25 February 2025
Wednesday, 19 February 2025Tuesday, 4 March 2025
Wednesday, 26 February 2025Tuesday, 11 March 2025
Wednesday, 5 March 2025Tuesday, 18 March 2025
Wednesday, 12 March 2025Tuesday, 25 March 2025
Wednesday, 19 March 2025Tuesday, 1 April 2025
Wednesday, 26 March 2025Tuesday, 8 April 2025
Wednesday, 2 April 2025Tuesday, 15 April 2025
Wednesday, 9 April 2025Tuesday, 22 April 2025
Wednesday, 16 April 2025Tuesday, 29 April 2025
Wednesday, 23 April 2025Tuesday, 6 May 2025
Wednesday, 30 April 2025Tuesday, 13 May 2025
Wednesday, 7 May 2025Tuesday, 20 May 2025
Wednesday, 14 May 2025Tuesday, 27 May 2025
Wednesday, 21 May 2025Tuesday, 3 June 2025
Wednesday, 28 May 2025Tuesday, 10 June 2025
Wednesday, 4 June 2025Tuesday, 17 June 2025
Wednesday, 11 June 2025Tuesday, 24 June 2025
Wednesday, 18 June 2025Tuesday, 1 July 2025
Wednesday, 25 June 2025Tuesday, 8 July 2025
Wednesday, 2 July 2025Tuesday, 15 July 2025
Wednesday, 9 July 2025Tuesday, 22 July 2025
Wednesday, 16 July 2025Tuesday, 29 July 2025
Wednesday, 23 July 2025Tuesday, 5 August 2025
Wednesday, 30 July 2025Tuesday, 12 August 2025
Wednesday, 6 August 2025Tuesday, 19 August 2025
Wednesday, 13 August 2025Tuesday, 26 August 2025
Wednesday, 20 August 2025Tuesday, 2 September 2025
Wednesday, 27 August 2025Tuesday, 9 September 2025
Wednesday, 3 September 2025Tuesday, 16 September 2025
Wednesday, 10 September 2025Tuesday, 23 September 2025
Wednesday, 17 September 2025Tuesday, 30 September 2025
Wednesday, 24 September 2025Tuesday, 7 October 2025
Wednesday, 1 October 2025Tuesday, 14 October 2025
Wednesday, 8 October 2025Tuesday, 21 October 2025
Wednesday, 15 October 2025Tuesday, 28 October 2025
Wednesday, 22 October 2025Tuesday, 4 November 2025
Wednesday, 29 October 2025Tuesday, 11 November 2025
Wednesday, 5 November 2025Tuesday, 18 November 2025
Wednesday, 12 November 2025Tuesday, 25 November 2025
Wednesday, 19 November 2025Tuesday, 2 December 2025
Wednesday, 26 November 2025Tuesday, 9 December 2025
Wednesday, 3 December 2025Tuesday, 16 December 2025
Wednesday, 10 December 2025Tuesday, 23 December 2025
Wednesday, 17 December 2025Tuesday, 30 December 2025
Wednesday, 24 December 2025Tuesday, 6 January 2026
Wednesday, 31 December 2025Tuesday, 13 January 2026
Wednesday, 7 January 2026Tuesday, 20 January 2026
Wednesday, 14 January 2026Tuesday, 27 January 2026
Wednesday, 21 January 2026Tuesday, 3 February 2026
Wednesday, 28 January 2026Tuesday, 10 February 2026
Wednesday, 4 February 2026Tuesday, 17 February 2026
Wednesday, 11 February 2026Tuesday, 24 February 2026
Wednesday, 18 February 2026Tuesday, 3 March 2026
Wednesday, 25 February 2026Tuesday, 10 March 2026
Wednesday, 4 March 2026Tuesday, 17 March 2026
Wednesday, 11 March 2026Tuesday, 24 March 2026
Wednesday, 18 March 2026Tuesday, 31 March 2026
Wednesday, 25 March 2026Tuesday, 7 April 2026

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