Essence of Vietnam & Cambodia
14 day Small Group Tour – from £2565 £2340
With flights from £3230
15 day Small Group Tour – from £2325 £2100
With flights from £2990
Travel in good company as you experience the sights, sounds and flavours of Vietnam and Cambodia on this expert led, small group tour.
Highlights:
- Cruise along the waterways of the Mekong Delta
- See the city sights of Ho Chi Minh City and visit the Cu Chi Tunnels
- Discover the history of ancient Hoi An
- Experience the magic of a Halong Bay overnight cruise
- Explore the magnificent Temples of Angkor
Your Itinerary
Expand AllYou can customise your holiday by adding extra nights or destinations before or after your Vietnam and Cambodia tour. Just let us know what you would like to do.
On arrival in Hanoi, transfer to your hotel and enjoy free time until your tour briefing and welcome drinks with your fellow travellers.
Le Jardin Hanoi or similar
Day 2 – Hanoi
Spend the day discovering Hanoi’s must-visit sites including Hoan Kiem Lake in the heart of the bustling Old Quarter. Next is the Ho Chi Minh complex where you will see the imposing mausoleum, the Presidential Palace and the former leader’s humble stilted residence, before finishing off with the unique One Pillar Pagoda.
After lunch at a local restaurant, continue to the Temple of Literature with its series of ornate and tranquil courtyards and long history of teaching dating back to 1070. Then its onto the infamous ‘Hanoi Hilton’ prison used during the Vietnam War, followed by two fine examples of French architecture with St Joseph’s Cathedral and the Opera House where you will take afternoon tea inside.
Le Jardin Hanoi or similar
Day 3 – Hanoi to Halong Bay
This morning drive to the coast for one of the highlights of the trip, a Halong Bay cruise. 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.
Victoria Star Cruise or similar
Day 4 – Halong Bay to Hoi An
Continue your exploration of Halong Bay and enjoy brunch on board. Cruise back to port and then drive to Hanoi for your onwards flight to Danang. On arrival, transfer to your hotel in the charming town of Hoi An. Enjoy an evening of free time.
Hoi An Central Boutique or similar
Day 5 – Hoi An
Along with your fellow travellers and guide, begin today with a walking tour to discover the mix of Chinese, Japanese and French influenced architecture that make this town so unique. Visit the Fujien Chinese Assembly Hall with its large incense coils hanging from the ceiling, followed by a walk along the riverbank with its colourful shops decorated with lanterns. Finish with one of the town’s most notable landmarks, the Japanese Covered Bridge which was built in the 17th century.
The afternoon is free for you to do as much or as little as you like. Choose to retrace your steps around the old town, have a local tailor custom make a new wardrobe or cycle to An Bang Beach.
Hoi An Central Boutique or similar
Day 6 – Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City
Enjoy free time in Hoi An before flying to Ho Chi Minh City. On arrival, transfer to your hotel for check in and enjoy an afternoon to explore at your leisure.
The Hotel Equatorial or similar
Day 7 – Ho Chi Mihn City & Cu Chi Tunnels
From Ho Chi Minh City, visit Cu Chi and discover the network of underground tunnels and their significance during the war. You may try a short segment of tunnel to gain an insight into how they were used with their varying levels.
In the afternoon return back to Ho Chi Minh City. Join a guided walking tour and discover the rich history of this spirited city as you visit some of its main attractions. The Presidential Palace made history in 1975 when the Viet Cong rolled through in their tanks thus signalling the fall of Saigon. Then explore some fine examples of French architecture with stops at the Notre Dame cathedral, the Old Post Office and the City Hall buildings. Finish off with a visit to the bustling Ben Thanh Market, one of the largest in downtown and a great place to haggle for those souvenirs.
The Hotel Equatorial or similar
Day 8 – Ho Chi Minh City to Mekong Delta
Travel by road to Can Tho in the Mekong Region to board your boat and begin your exploration of the Delta. After a delicious lunch on board cruise through the many palm fringed canals and waterways, as you witness local life along the shoreline. Take a guided walk to a rural village or through orchards and rice paddies.
Bassac Boat or similar
Day 9 – Mekong Delta
It’s an early start this morning to visit the bustling Cai Rang floating market by Sampan where you can observe the locals buying and selling fruit and vegetables from their boats.
Later, drive to Binh Thuy ancient house with its harmonious mix of east and west influences, before heading to your hotel in Can Tho.
Sheraton Can Tho or similar
Day 10 – Mekong Delta to Chau Doc
After breakfast at the hotel, meet up with the guide and drive to Chau Doc. On arrival if time permits, continue your tour by visiting a beautiful Khmer temple and floating houses that double as catfish farms.
Victoria Chau Doc
Day 11 – Mekong River & Phnom Penh
After breakfast, transfer to the pier to board your speedboat which will take you to the Cambodia border to clear immigration formalities before continuing up the Mekong River to Phnom Penh.
In the afternoon, visit the Tuol Sleng Musuem and the Killing Fields memorial at Choeng Ek where you will learn about turbulent past of the country under Pol Pot regime.
Sun & Moon Urban Hotel or similar
Day 12 – Phnom Penh to Siem Reap
Enjoy a morning cyclo (bicycle rickshaw) ride through the backstreets of Phnom Penh. Discover Wat Phnom, the birthplace of the capital, the Royal Palace with its famous landmark the Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum with its unique collection of Khmer art. Continue the day with an overland drive to Siem Reap, with multiple stops along the way such as the Spider and Insect Market in Skun and the stone mason village near Phnom Santuk. Arrival in Siem Reap during the early evening.
Steung Siem Reap or similar
Day 13 – Temples of Angkor
Spend the day exploring the famous temples just outside Siem Reap. Angkor Wat is said to be the world’s largest religious building and famous for its beautiful symmetry and central spires. At Angkor Thom you will see the Bayon temple with its gigantic faces carved in the stonework and the Terraces of Elephants and the Leper King. The final temple is Ta Prohm which was made famous in the film Tomb raider and is noted for its eerie atmosphere with massive tree roots growing out of the temple ruins.
This evening enjoy a farewell dinner with your group at Apsara Theatre where dancers, singers and musicians showcase ancient culture.
Steung Siem Reap or similar
Day 14 – Departure
It is 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 travels.
Day 1 – Arrive in Hanoi
Upon arrival in Hanoi, you will be transferred to your hotel, where you can enjoy some free time to relax. Later in the evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a tour briefing and welcome drinks.
Le Jardin Hotel & Spa
Day 2 – Hanoi
After enjoying breakfast, your full-day city tour will begin. You will meet your guide at your hotel and first visit Hoan Kiem Lake, located in the heart of Hanoi. Next, you will explore Dong Xuan Market before heading to the Ho Chi Minh Complex, where you will see Ba Dinh Square and the Presidential Palace (taking photos from the outside). You will also visit Ho Chi Minh’s private residence, a charming wooden house built on stilts, surrounded by peaceful gardens. Within the same complex, you will visit the One Pillar Pagoda, an important symbol for the people of Hanoi, founded by King Ly Thai To in 1049.
Afterward, you will enjoy lunch at KOTO Van Mieu before continuing to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, established in 1070. The beautiful gardens and well-preserved architecture offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s past. Your tour will also include a visit to Hoa Lo Prison, known as the “Hanoi Hilton” during the American War, and St. Joseph’s Cathedral. Finally, you will end the day with a visit to the Opera House, where you will indulge in a delightful afternoon tea. You will return to your hotel for the night.
Le Jardin Hotel & Spa
Day 3 – Hanoi to Halong Bay
This morning, you will drive through picturesque rural landscapes as you travel from Hanoi to Halong City, the gateway to Halong Bay. Upon arrival, you will board a well-appointed junk boat and enjoy a delicious lunch while beginning your cruise among the stunning 3,000 islands that rise from the sea. In the evening, you can relax in your private cabin or unwind on the main deck or at the bar.
On board the Victoria Star or similar
Day 4 – Halong Bay to Hoi An
You will continue your exploration of Halong Bay in the morning and enjoy brunch on board before cruising back to port for disembarkation. Afterward, you will drive back to Hanoi for your onward flight to Danang. Once you arrive, you will transfer to your hotel in the charming town of Hoi An, where you will enjoy a relaxing evening at your leisure.
Hoi An Central Boutique Hotel & Spa or similar
Day 5 – Hoi An
After breakfast, you will embark on a half-day walking tour of Hoi An. The tour will start at the Museum of Folk Culture, where you will learn about the history of this charming town. You will then stroll through the small market and along the main street to visit the Chinese Assembly Hall, dedicated to Thien Hau, the Goddess of the Sea.
Next, you will walk to the riverbank, where you will find narrow streets lined with old houses transformed into beautifully decorated shops adorned with colorful lanterns. You will also visit the famous Japanese Covered Bridge, built in the early 17th century, which is now a symbol of Hoi An. The tour will conclude with a visit to a historic old house within this UNESCO-recognized town. The afternoon will be free for you to explore as you wish, whether it be visiting the old town, having a tailor custom-make a wardrobe, or cycling to An Bang Beach. You will spend the night in Hoi An.
Hoi An Central Boutique Hotel & Spa or similar
Day 6 – Hoi An to Saigon
Enjoy some additional free time in Hoi An before catching your flight to Saigon. Upon arrival in Saigon, you will transfer to your hotel for check-in and enjoy an afternoon at your leisure.
Hotel Equatorial or similar
Day 7 – Saigon
Today, you will delve into history with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground village that played a significant role during the Vietnam War. You will have the opportunity to explore a short segment of the extensive 200 km tunnel network, and for those interested, you can test your marksmanship with an optional visit to a local rifle range.
After lunch at a local restaurant, you will embark on a half-day city tour of vibrant Saigon. Your first stop will be the former Presidential Palace, a modern building where North Vietnamese tanks rolled in on April 30, 1975, marking the fall of Saigon. You will then continue on foot to visit the iconic colonial sights of Ho Chi Minh City, including the red-brick Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Empire-style Post Office, and the City Hall. Your tour will also take you to Ben Thanh Market, one of the oldest and largest markets in Saigon, where you can find local handicrafts, textiles, and traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
Hotel Equatorial or similar
Day 8 – Saigon to Mekong Delta
This morning, you will depart for the Mekong Delta, boarding the Bassac at Ninh Kieu Pier in Can Tho. After a welcome drink and an introduction to the ship and crew, you will set off downstream on the Hau River. Enjoy lunch on board as you cruise toward Nicolai Canal and the Mang Thit River.
In the mid-afternoon, the Bassac will anchor for a visit ashore, where you will discover the peaceful life of the delta’s countryside, including rice fields and fruit trees. You can also opt for a short cycling tour of the surrounding area. After returning to the ship, enjoy a complimentary drink as you take in the sunset from the deck. You will anchor just downstream from Tra On for the night.
Onboard the Bassac
Day 9 – Can Tho
The Bassac will depart early in the morning as it passes by Tra On. After breakfast, you will arrive in Can Tho and board a local boat to visit the Cai Rang Floating Market. You will also visit a noodle factory before returning to Ninh Kieu Pier.
After disembarking, you will meet your guide and drive to Binh Thuy Ancient House, which beautifully combines Eastern feng-shui principles with French architectural styles.
Sheraton Can Tho or similar
Day 10 – Can Tho to Chau Doc
After breakfast at the hotel, you will meet your guide and drive to Chau Doc. Upon arrival, time permitting, you will visit a beautiful Khmer temple and explore floating houses that serve as catfish farms, an important industry in the region. You will then check in to your hotel in Chau Doc for the night.
Victoria Chau Doc or similar
Day 11 – Chau Doc to Phnom Penh
After breakfast, you will transfer to the pier to board a speedboat to the Cambodian border. Following customs and immigration formalities, you will cruise along the Mekong River to Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia. The speedboat trip will take around 5.5 hours, so it is advisable to bring a light snack and a bottle of water. The boat is open to natural air, so casual clothing is recommended.
Upon arriving at Phnom Penh’s port around 2:00 PM, you will be welcomed by your local guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in. After a brief refresh, you will have free time for lunch (not included) and then embark on a short walking tour of a local market in the heart of Phnom Penh. This is a great opportunity to gain insight into the daily shopping habits of the locals and taste some Khmer sweets or fresh fruit from small market stalls.
Sun & Moon Urban Hotel or similar
Day 12 – Phnom Penh
Today, you will explore Phnom Penh using a cyclo (bicycle rickshaw). Your tour will start at Wat Phnom, the birthplace of the capital, and then continue to the Royal Palace, which is the residence of King Norodom Sihamoni. You will also visit the Silver Pagoda and the National Museum, which houses a comprehensive collection of Khmer art.
In the afternoon, you will visit the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields, which offer poignant insights into Cambodia’s tragic history under the Khmer Rouge regime. To conclude the day, you will enjoy a sunset cocktail at a terrace bar overlooking the beautiful Mekong River.
Sun & Moon Urban Hotel or similar
Day 13 – Phnom Penh to Siem Reap
In the morning, you will depart from Phnom Penh for an overland journey to Siem Reap, which takes approximately six hours, excluding stops along the way. Along the route, you will make a stop at the infamous Spider and Insect Market in Skun and visit a stone mason village near Phnom Santuk. Another brief stop will be at the Naga Bridge in Kampong Kdei. You will arrive in Siem Reap in the afternoon and spend the night there.
Steung Siem Reap or similar
Day 14 – Temples of Angkor
Your day will begin with a visit to the Southern Gate of Angkor Thom, known as the “Great City.” Here, you will marvel at the impressive 23-meter high stone faces of Avalokiteshvara, featured in the Tomb Raider movie. You will also explore the Bayon temple, adorned with hundreds of gigantic stone faces, as well as the Terrace of Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King.
Later, you will discover the renowned temples from the 11th century, including Baphuon and Phimeanakas, before visiting Ta Prohm, famous for its massive trees with thick roots that entwine the temple walls. You will end your exploration at Angkor Wat, built under King Suryavarman II. In the evening, indulge in a delightful Khmer Farewell Dinner at a charming local restaurant.
Steung Siem Reap or similar
Day 15 – Depart from Siem Reap
Enjoy these last moments in Siem Reap before your guide and driver transfer you to the airport for your flight home or onto your next location.
Your Itinerary
You can customise your holiday by adding extra nights or destinations before or after your Vietnam and Cambodia tour. Just let us know what you would like to do.
Day 1
| Arrival in Hanoi
On arrival in Hanoi, transfer to your hotel and enjoy free time until your tour briefing and welcome drinks with your fellow travellers.
Le Jardin Hanoi or similar
Day 2
| Hanoi
Spend the day discovering Hanoi’s must-visit sites including Hoan Kiem Lake in the heart of the bustling Old Quarter. Next is the Ho Chi Minh complex where you will see the imposing mausoleum, the Presidential Palace and the former leader’s humble stilted residence, before finishing off with the unique One Pillar Pagoda.
After lunch at a local restaurant, continue to the Temple of Literature with its series of ornate and tranquil courtyards and long history of teaching dating back to 1070. Then its onto the infamous ‘Hanoi Hilton’ prison used during the Vietnam War, followed by two fine examples of French architecture with St Joseph’s Cathedral and the Opera House where you will take afternoon tea inside.
Le Jardin Hanoi or similar
Day 3
| Hanoi to Halong Bay
This morning drive to the coast for one of the highlights of the trip, a Halong Bay cruise. 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.
Victoria Star Cruise or similar
Day 4
| Halong Bay to Hoi An
Continue your exploration of Halong Bay and enjoy brunch on board. Cruise back to port and then drive to Hanoi for your onwards flight to Danang. On arrival, transfer to your hotel in the charming town of Hoi An. Enjoy an evening of free time.
Hoi An Central Boutique or similar
Day 5
| Hoi An
Along with your fellow travellers and guide, begin today with a walking tour to discover the mix of Chinese, Japanese and French influenced architecture that make this town so unique. Visit the Fujien Chinese Assembly Hall with its large incense coils hanging from the ceiling, followed by a walk along the riverbank with its colourful shops decorated with lanterns. Finish with one of the town’s most notable landmarks, the Japanese Covered Bridge which was built in the 17th century.
The afternoon is free for you to do as much or as little as you like. Choose to retrace your steps around the old town, have a local tailor custom make a new wardrobe or cycle to An Bang Beach.
Hoi An Central Boutique or similar
Day 6
| Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City
Enjoy free time in Hoi An before flying to Ho Chi Minh City. On arrival, transfer to your hotel for check in and enjoy an afternoon to explore at your leisure.
The Hotel Equatorial or similar
Day 7
| Ho Chi Mihn City & Cu Chi Tunnels
From Ho Chi Minh City, visit Cu Chi and discover the network of underground tunnels and their significance during the war. You may try a short segment of tunnel to gain an insight into how they were used with their varying levels.
In the afternoon return back to Ho Chi Minh City. Join a guided walking tour and discover the rich history of this spirited city as you visit some of its main attractions. The Presidential Palace made history in 1975 when the Viet Cong rolled through in their tanks thus signalling the fall of Saigon. Then explore some fine examples of French architecture with stops at the Notre Dame cathedral, the Old Post Office and the City Hall buildings. Finish off with a visit to the bustling Ben Thanh Market, one of the largest in downtown and a great place to haggle for those souvenirs.
The Hotel Equatorial or similar
Day 8
| Ho Chi Minh City to Mekong Delta
Travel by road to Can Tho in the Mekong Region to board your boat and begin your exploration of the Delta. After a delicious lunch on board cruise through the many palm fringed canals and waterways, as you witness local life along the shoreline. Take a guided walk to a rural village or through orchards and rice paddies.
Bassac Boat or similar
Day 9
| Mekong Delta
It’s an early start this morning to visit the bustling Cai Rang floating market by Sampan where you can observe the locals buying and selling fruit and vegetables from their boats.
Later, drive to Binh Thuy ancient house with its harmonious mix of east and west influences, before heading to your hotel in Can Tho.
Sheraton Can Tho or similar
Day 10
| Mekong Delta to Chau Doc
After breakfast at the hotel, meet up with the guide and drive to Chau Doc. On arrival if time permits, continue your tour by visiting a beautiful Khmer temple and floating houses that double as catfish farms.
Victoria Chau Doc
Day 11
| Mekong River & Phnom Penh
After breakfast, transfer to the pier to board your speedboat which will take you to the Cambodia border to clear immigration formalities before continuing up the Mekong River to Phnom Penh.
In the afternoon, visit the Tuol Sleng Musuem and the Killing Fields memorial at Choeng Ek where you will learn about turbulent past of the country under Pol Pot regime.
Sun & Moon Urban Hotel or similar
Day 12
| Phnom Penh to Siem Reap
Enjoy a morning cyclo (bicycle rickshaw) ride through the backstreets of Phnom Penh. Discover Wat Phnom, the birthplace of the capital, the Royal Palace with its famous landmark the Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum with its unique collection of Khmer art. Continue the day with an overland drive to Siem Reap, with multiple stops along the way such as the Spider and Insect Market in Skun and the stone mason village near Phnom Santuk. Arrival in Siem Reap during the early evening.
Steung Siem Reap or similar
Day 13
| Temples of Angkor
Spend the day exploring the famous temples just outside Siem Reap. Angkor Wat is said to be the world’s largest religious building and famous for its beautiful symmetry and central spires. At Angkor Thom you will see the Bayon temple with its gigantic faces carved in the stonework and the Terraces of Elephants and the Leper King. The final temple is Ta Prohm which was made famous in the film Tomb raider and is noted for its eerie atmosphere with massive tree roots growing out of the temple ruins.
This evening enjoy a farewell dinner with your group at Apsara Theatre where dancers, singers and musicians showcase ancient culture.
Steung Siem Reap or similar
Day 14
| Departure
It is 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 travels.
Day 1
| Arrive in Hanoi
Upon arrival in Hanoi, you will be transferred to your hotel, where you can enjoy some free time to relax. Later in the evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a tour briefing and welcome drinks.
Le Jardin Hotel & Spa
Day 2
| Hanoi
After enjoying breakfast, your full-day city tour will begin. You will meet your guide at your hotel and first visit Hoan Kiem Lake, located in the heart of Hanoi. Next, you will explore Dong Xuan Market before heading to the Ho Chi Minh Complex, where you will see Ba Dinh Square and the Presidential Palace (taking photos from the outside). You will also visit Ho Chi Minh’s private residence, a charming wooden house built on stilts, surrounded by peaceful gardens. Within the same complex, you will visit the One Pillar Pagoda, an important symbol for the people of Hanoi, founded by King Ly Thai To in 1049.
Afterward, you will enjoy lunch at KOTO Van Mieu before continuing to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, established in 1070. The beautiful gardens and well-preserved architecture offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s past. Your tour will also include a visit to Hoa Lo Prison, known as the “Hanoi Hilton” during the American War, and St. Joseph’s Cathedral. Finally, you will end the day with a visit to the Opera House, where you will indulge in a delightful afternoon tea. You will return to your hotel for the night.
Le Jardin Hotel & Spa
Day 3
| Hanoi to Halong Bay
This morning, you will drive through picturesque rural landscapes as you travel from Hanoi to Halong City, the gateway to Halong Bay. Upon arrival, you will board a well-appointed junk boat and enjoy a delicious lunch while beginning your cruise among the stunning 3,000 islands that rise from the sea. In the evening, you can relax in your private cabin or unwind on the main deck or at the bar.
On board the Victoria Star or similar
Day 4
| Halong Bay to Hoi An
You will continue your exploration of Halong Bay in the morning and enjoy brunch on board before cruising back to port for disembarkation. Afterward, you will drive back to Hanoi for your onward flight to Danang. Once you arrive, you will transfer to your hotel in the charming town of Hoi An, where you will enjoy a relaxing evening at your leisure.
Hoi An Central Boutique Hotel & Spa or similar
Day 5
| Hoi An
After breakfast, you will embark on a half-day walking tour of Hoi An. The tour will start at the Museum of Folk Culture, where you will learn about the history of this charming town. You will then stroll through the small market and along the main street to visit the Chinese Assembly Hall, dedicated to Thien Hau, the Goddess of the Sea.
Next, you will walk to the riverbank, where you will find narrow streets lined with old houses transformed into beautifully decorated shops adorned with colorful lanterns. You will also visit the famous Japanese Covered Bridge, built in the early 17th century, which is now a symbol of Hoi An. The tour will conclude with a visit to a historic old house within this UNESCO-recognized town. The afternoon will be free for you to explore as you wish, whether it be visiting the old town, having a tailor custom-make a wardrobe, or cycling to An Bang Beach. You will spend the night in Hoi An.
Hoi An Central Boutique Hotel & Spa or similar
Day 6
| Hoi An to Saigon
Enjoy some additional free time in Hoi An before catching your flight to Saigon. Upon arrival in Saigon, you will transfer to your hotel for check-in and enjoy an afternoon at your leisure.
Hotel Equatorial or similar
Day 7
| Saigon
Today, you will delve into history with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground village that played a significant role during the Vietnam War. You will have the opportunity to explore a short segment of the extensive 200 km tunnel network, and for those interested, you can test your marksmanship with an optional visit to a local rifle range.
After lunch at a local restaurant, you will embark on a half-day city tour of vibrant Saigon. Your first stop will be the former Presidential Palace, a modern building where North Vietnamese tanks rolled in on April 30, 1975, marking the fall of Saigon. You will then continue on foot to visit the iconic colonial sights of Ho Chi Minh City, including the red-brick Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Empire-style Post Office, and the City Hall. Your tour will also take you to Ben Thanh Market, one of the oldest and largest markets in Saigon, where you can find local handicrafts, textiles, and traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
Hotel Equatorial or similar
Day 8
| Saigon to Mekong Delta
This morning, you will depart for the Mekong Delta, boarding the Bassac at Ninh Kieu Pier in Can Tho. After a welcome drink and an introduction to the ship and crew, you will set off downstream on the Hau River. Enjoy lunch on board as you cruise toward Nicolai Canal and the Mang Thit River.
In the mid-afternoon, the Bassac will anchor for a visit ashore, where you will discover the peaceful life of the delta’s countryside, including rice fields and fruit trees. You can also opt for a short cycling tour of the surrounding area. After returning to the ship, enjoy a complimentary drink as you take in the sunset from the deck. You will anchor just downstream from Tra On for the night.
Onboard the Bassac
Day 9
| Can Tho
The Bassac will depart early in the morning as it passes by Tra On. After breakfast, you will arrive in Can Tho and board a local boat to visit the Cai Rang Floating Market. You will also visit a noodle factory before returning to Ninh Kieu Pier.
After disembarking, you will meet your guide and drive to Binh Thuy Ancient House, which beautifully combines Eastern feng-shui principles with French architectural styles.
Sheraton Can Tho or similar
Day 10
| Can Tho to Chau Doc
After breakfast at the hotel, you will meet your guide and drive to Chau Doc. Upon arrival, time permitting, you will visit a beautiful Khmer temple and explore floating houses that serve as catfish farms, an important industry in the region. You will then check in to your hotel in Chau Doc for the night.
Victoria Chau Doc or similar
Day 11
| Chau Doc to Phnom Penh
After breakfast, you will transfer to the pier to board a speedboat to the Cambodian border. Following customs and immigration formalities, you will cruise along the Mekong River to Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia. The speedboat trip will take around 5.5 hours, so it is advisable to bring a light snack and a bottle of water. The boat is open to natural air, so casual clothing is recommended.
Upon arriving at Phnom Penh’s port around 2:00 PM, you will be welcomed by your local guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in. After a brief refresh, you will have free time for lunch (not included) and then embark on a short walking tour of a local market in the heart of Phnom Penh. This is a great opportunity to gain insight into the daily shopping habits of the locals and taste some Khmer sweets or fresh fruit from small market stalls.
Sun & Moon Urban Hotel or similar
Day 12
| Phnom Penh
Today, you will explore Phnom Penh using a cyclo (bicycle rickshaw). Your tour will start at Wat Phnom, the birthplace of the capital, and then continue to the Royal Palace, which is the residence of King Norodom Sihamoni. You will also visit the Silver Pagoda and the National Museum, which houses a comprehensive collection of Khmer art.
In the afternoon, you will visit the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields, which offer poignant insights into Cambodia’s tragic history under the Khmer Rouge regime. To conclude the day, you will enjoy a sunset cocktail at a terrace bar overlooking the beautiful Mekong River.
Sun & Moon Urban Hotel or similar
Day 13
| Phnom Penh to Siem Reap
In the morning, you will depart from Phnom Penh for an overland journey to Siem Reap, which takes approximately six hours, excluding stops along the way. Along the route, you will make a stop at the infamous Spider and Insect Market in Skun and visit a stone mason village near Phnom Santuk. Another brief stop will be at the Naga Bridge in Kampong Kdei. You will arrive in Siem Reap in the afternoon and spend the night there.
Steung Siem Reap or similar
Day 14
| Temples of Angkor
Your day will begin with a visit to the Southern Gate of Angkor Thom, known as the “Great City.” Here, you will marvel at the impressive 23-meter high stone faces of Avalokiteshvara, featured in the Tomb Raider movie. You will also explore the Bayon temple, adorned with hundreds of gigantic stone faces, as well as the Terrace of Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King.
Later, you will discover the renowned temples from the 11th century, including Baphuon and Phimeanakas, before visiting Ta Prohm, famous for its massive trees with thick roots that entwine the temple walls. You will end your exploration at Angkor Wat, built under King Suryavarman II. In the evening, indulge in a delightful Khmer Farewell Dinner at a charming local restaurant.
Steung Siem Reap or similar
Day 15
| Depart from Siem Reap
Enjoy these last moments in Siem Reap before your guide and driver transfer you to the airport for your flight home or onto your next location.
Meals & Inclusions
Meals & Inclusions
Departure Dates
2024-11-07
2024-11-21
2024-12-05
2024-12-19
2025-01-02
2025-01-16
2025-01-30
2025-02-13
2025-02-27
2025-03-13
2025-03-27
2025-04-10
2025-04-24
2025-05-08
2025-05-22
2025-06-05
2025-06-19
2025-07-03
2025-07-17
2025-07-31
2025-08-14
2025-08-28
2025-09-11
2025-09-25
2025-10-09
2025-10-23
2025-11-06
2025-11-20
2025-12-04
2025-12-18
2026-01-01
2026-01-15
2026-01-29
2026-02-12
2026-02-26
2026-03-12
2026-03-26
Flights & More
With FREEDOM, you can book your Essence of Vietnam & Cambodia small group tour and flights together, as an ATOL protected package. Our Travel Experts can find the best priced Economy, Premium or Business Class flights for you.
You can also personalise your holiday. Why not add:
- Extra nights in Hanoi or Siem Reap before or after your tour
- A Bangkok city break after your tour
Next Step
Please get in touch with our Asia Experts to start planning your holiday. You’ll have a single point of contact from your first enquiry through booking.
Essence of Vietnam & Cambodia
14 day Small Group Tour – from £2565 £2340
With flights from £3230
15 day Small Group Tour – from £2325 £2100
With flights from £2990
Offer available for a limited period and subject to availability.
All prices are per person, based on two sharing a double or twin room, and include meals where shown. Please call Freedom Destinations to confirm departure dates and availability.
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