Best of Vietnam & Cambodia 14 Days
(14 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Hanoi, Sapa, Halong, Hue, Hoian, Saigon, Cai Be, Chau Doc, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap
This is the best cultural tour of Vietnam - an in-depth exploration of Vietnam’s most interesting cities and countryside, from the hill tribe villages in Sapa, to the imperial ruins in Hue and floating markets of the Mekong Delta.
Start your trip in cosmopolitan Hanoi, where your introduction includes a private city tour and an evening performance of the famed water puppets. From Hanoi, take the overnight train to Sapa; the train has made this area of Vietnam more accessible than ever – and getting there is part of the fun. Sapa is one of Vietnam’s most intriguing destinations, set high in the mountains near the China border; it is most famous for its terraced rice paddies and colorful local markets. In Sapa, spend time learning about the hill tribe villages and absorbing the magnificent scenery before taking the train back to Hanoi. Also spend an overnight cruise on board in Halong Bay, where thousands of limestone rock sculptures jut dramatically from the sea and numerous grottoes have created an ephemeral, fantastic landscape.
Fly from Hanoi to Hue, where you will visit the Citadel and the tomb of Minh Mang. From Hue, depart on a coastal drive to Hoi An, a wonderful oasis of traditional Vietnamese architecture, Chinese clan houses, temples, pagodas, and homes that display superb woodwork and beautiful antiques.
Next, fly to Saigon for city touring and take an excursion to the network of secret tunnels in Cu Chi that were used during the Vietnam War. Also spend a memorable night deep in the rural Mekong Delta and travel by private sampan (traditional boat) through the canals to see floating markets.
The next day, cruise the Mekong River by speedboat and cross into Phnom Penh, Cambodia, where touring includes visits to the Royal Palace and other attractions of this blossoming city. Continue to Siem Reap for extensive touring of Angkor and the many temples in the region before concluding the tour with a flight back home.
Overview Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive Hanoi (D)
Day 02: Hanoi City Tour - Lao Cai (B/L)
Day 03: Lao Cai – Sapa touring (B/L)
Day 04: Sapa touring - Lao Cai - Train back to Hanoi (B/L)
Day 05: Hanoi - Halong Bay (B/L/D)
Day 06: Halong Bay - Hanoi – Fly to Hue (B)
Day 07: Hue morning touring, afternoon drive to Hoian (B/L)
Day 08: Hoian morning touring, afternoon fly to Saigon (B/L)
Day 09: Saigon full day touring (B/L)
Day 10: Drive through the Mekong Delta to Chau Doc for a 1 night stay (B/L/)
Day 11: Travel by speed boat to Phnom Penh, transfer to hotel for an overnight stay (B/D)
Day 12: Morning Phnom Penh touring, afternoon fly to Siem Reap (B/D)
Day 13: Full day Angkor touring (B/D)
Day 14: Morning touring, afternoon transfer to airport for your departure flight (B/L)
Day 1: Arrive Hanoi (D)
You will be warmly welcomed upon arrival Hanoi airport and transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon you will take a walking tour to visit Hanoi's Old Quarter, known for its 36 streets and former craft guilds. Then you will enjoy a water puppet performance before a welcome dinner at a local restaurant and an overnight stay in Hanoi.
Day 2: Hanoi City Tour - Lao Cai (B/L)
The post-colonial capital city of Hanoi is a unique Asian city with tree-lined boulevards, French colonial architecture, numerous lakes, pagodas and temples. This full day tour takes you around Hanoi's most interesting sights. Begin with an exploration of the vast Ho Chi Minh Memorial Complex. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum which contains the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh (closed Mondays, Fridays and from 5th September to 5th November); and Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House where Ho Chi Minh lived from 1958 until his final days in 1969. Preserved in the same condition as during his life, it may be viewed through the windows. Continue to the miniature 11th century One Pillar Pagoda which was rebuilt after being destroyed by the French in 1954. The next stop is the Temple of Literature with its walled courtyards and graceful gateways. Founded in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius, this was also the site of Vietnam's first university. Afterwards head to the Museum of Ethnology (closed Mondays and during Vietnam New Year). This museum showcases art, traditional clothing and reconstructions of traditional longhouses from 54 different ethnic groups. Your adventure trip to Sapa will then begin with an overnight train from Vietnam 's capital city to the border town of Lao Cai.
Day 3: Lao Cai - Sapa (B/L)
The train arrives at Lao Cai train station at approximately 6:00 a.m. and there will be a vehicle waiting to transfer you to Sapa. The drive to Sapa is only 33 km, but it takes around 1.5 hours. Once at Sapa, you will check in to your hotel (early check-in subject to availability). You will have breakfast at the hotel restaurant then visit to local market where Red Dao, Black & Flower H'Mong, Tay and other ethnic minority people converge from the surrounding countryside to sell their silverware and handicrafts, and to buy provisions.
In the afternoon there will be a walking tour to the hill tribe villages of Cat Cat, home to the H'mong hill tribe minority peoples. As you walk to the villages nestled in the valley below Sapa, you will meet some of the local minority people on their way to and from Sapa. Here you will have the opportunity to share cultural experiences with the families that live in the area. You will stay overnight in Sapa.
Day 4: Sapa - Lao Chai & Ta Van Village - Night train to Hanoi (B/L)
After breakfast, take a short drive to visit Lao Chai and Ta Van village of the Black H'mong and the Day people where you can enjoy fresh air, amazing scenery of the imposing mountain range, trek down world's most beautiful terraced rice fields, visit some local family on the way and learn unique culture and life of these ethnic groups. Back to Sapa by private car, optional visit around Sapa town or independently explore the town before heading to the train station for the night train back to Hanoi. Overnight on train in a superior 4-berth compartment sharing with other passengers.
Day 5: Hanoi - Halong Bay (B/L/D)
Arriving in Hanoi around 5 a.m, you will be pick up and go to the mini hotel to have shower and breakfast. Following breakfast, travel to the spectacular World Heritage site of Halong Bay in the Gulf of Tonkin (approximately four hours). Arrive at your jetty in Halong City towards noon and proceed with check-in formalities. After your welcome onboard, a lunch will be served while cruising towards the bay itself. In the afternoon, enjoy some visits and/or activities (depending on each boat’s itinerary) or just spend some time relaxing on board. Towards the end of the day the boat sets anchor for the night among the karst formations. Dinner is served on board. Overnight aboard on Halong Bay
Note: 2 days cruise itinerary is subject to change bases on each cruise company, english speaking guide is available on board.
Day 6: Halong Bay Cruise – Hanoi – Fly to Hue (B)
Enjoy your fresh morning in the middle of the bay, the sun rises on Halong in the morning and breakfast is served (brunch on some boats) while the vessels cruises slowly through the magnificent rock formations and back towards port. Disembark and transfer to the Hanoi’s airport for short flight to Hue. Upon arrival at Phu Bai Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel for two-night stay. Accommodation at hotel in Hue
Day 7: Hue – Hoian (B/L)
After breakfast at your hotel, you will board a private traditional boat for a cruise on the romantic Perfume River as you head out to the countryside. Being the ancient capital, Hue is surrounded by ancient tombs of emperors past, and a visit to some of these tombs will be on the itinerary for today. The charming Lady Pagoda (Thien Mu Pagoda) will be the first stop of the day. Continue along the river to the Royal Tombs of Minh Mang, the second emperor of the Nguyen Dynesty who reigned until 1841. The tomb blends traditional architecture with a magical natural setting, and consists of 40 constructions (palaces, temples, and pavilions). Also visit to the Imperial City, which is located in the Citadel. The Imperial City was built in the early 19th century. Explore the Thai Hoa Palace, with its spacious hall and ornate roof of huge timbers supported by 80 carved and lacquered columns. See the Halls of the Mandarins, the Nine Dynastic Urns and the site where the Forbidden Purple City once stood.
In the afternoon, drive to Hoian over the scenic Hai Van Pass, probably the most scenic stretch of coastal road in Vietnam! En route, visit the Museum of Cham Sculpture, which contains one of the finest collections of Indo-Hindu carvings and documents the history and culture of the Cham people. Also visit the handicraft villages on the foot of Marble Mountain. Upon arrival in Hoian, settle into your hotel. Accommodation at hotel in Hoian.
Day 8: Hoian – Fly to Saigon (B/L/)
Hoi An ancient town is an exceptionally well-preserved example of a South-East Asian trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century. Its buildings and its street plan reflect the influences, both indigenous and foreign, that have combined to produce this unique heritage site.
After breakfast, enjoy a walking tour of this enchanting town visiting an old merchant house, the Hoi An Museum, a Chinese Assembly Hall and the Japanese Covered Bridge. There may be many interesting things waiting for you here, lanterns, clothes shop, Hoian calligraphy, night foods…This afternoon, you will be transferred to the airport in Danang for the flight to Ho Chi Minh, where you will be greeted by our guide and transferred to hotel. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.
Day 9: Saigon – Cu Chi Tunnels – Saigon (B/L)
After breakfast, you will drive to Cu Chi Tunnels, which consist of more than 200 km of underground tunnels. This main axis system has many branches connecting to underground hideouts, shelters, and entrances to other tunnels. The network included innumerable trap doors, specially constructed living areas, storage facilities, weapons factories, field hospitals, command centers and kitchens. Today the remaining tunnels have become a major tourist attraction giving the visitor a unique experience and a feel of what underground life was like during the U.S.-Vietnam War.
In the afternoon you will embark on a city tour of Saigon including the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Old Post Office and bustling Ben Thanh Market. Accommodation at hotel in Saigon
Day 10: Ho Chi Minh – Mekong Delta – Chau Doc (B/L)
Today, leave the bustle of the city behind for a day of exploring scenic rice fields, waterways and colorful markets of the Mekong Delta, Cai Be Floating Market, which is a famous place in Mekong Delta, here the Tien River forms the border between Tien Giang, Vinh Long and Ben Tre provinces.
On arrival, start with a visit to Cai Be’s famous floating market, where vendors come from around the Mekong Delta to sell their fruits, vegetables and other wares. The boat then stops at some local homes that double as artisanal factories. Talk with local residents as they make rice paste, coco sweets and popcorn. The trip continues along the smaller canals by rowing boat. You will discover beautiful landscapes along the river and observe the typical Mekong delta rural life. Lunch can be served at local home. After lunch, we can walk around and then we will enjoy some kinds of fruits when listening to the traditional music. The cruise will end at Vinh Long city, then drive to Chau Doc. Overnight in Chau Doc
Day 11: Chau Doc – Phnom Penh by boat (B/D)
Depart early this morning for the boat ride to Phnom Penh, Cambodia (at 7 am). Once you reach the Cambodian border, the boat will stop to arrange your visa, which is approximately 34 USD per person (your own expense). On arrival in Phnom Penh (about 12.30), you’ll be transferred to hotel for an overnight stay. Balance of the day is at your leisire. Dinner at local restaurant. Overnight in Phnom Penh.
Day 12: Phnom Penh – Siem Reap (B/D)
After breakfast, set out to explore the city's many unique highlights. Visit the elegant Royal Palace, a Khmer-styled structure constructed by the French in 1866, which stands on the site of the former citadel, Banteay Keo. Continue to the Silver Pagoda, so called because its dazzling floor is made of 5,329 silver tiles weighing one kilogram each. The Silver Pagoda houses a broad, eclectic selection of statuary and Buddhist relics, many from the Royal collection. Also learn more about Cambodia’s past tragedy with a visit Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21 prison). Then transfer to the airport for departure to Phnom Penh. Upon arrival in Siem Reap, meet our guide and transfer to hotel. Overnight in Siem Reap.
Day 13: Siem Reap – Angkor Wat (B/D)
After breakfast, set out to explore the city of World Heritage. Begin at the South Gate of Angkor Thom, an ancient royal city that covers four square miles and is the pinnacle of the Khmer obsession with vast public works. Walk through looming gates, guarded by statues of gods and demons. At the center of Angkor Thom is the Temple of Bayon, a tremendous multi-towered temple with bas-reliefs depicting Hindu mythology. The central tower is covered with four gargantuan heads, depicting the king as a Bodhisattva, or Buddhist deity of compassion. This image is repeated throughout the Bayon, making it one of the most striking sites at Angkor. Continue by car past the Elephant and Leper King Terraces to Preah Khan, a remarkably preserved temple, and Ta Prohm, a temple that remains completely engulfed in vines and tree roots - this is arguably the most evocative of all Angkor's many temples.
In the afternoon, you will visit the most famous of all the temples on the plain of Angkor, Angkor Wat. The temple complex covers 81 hectares and is considered by art historians to be the prime example of classical Khmer art and architecture. You will enjoy a wonderful sunset from the Phnom Bakheng Hills. Dinner with dance Apsaras show at local restaurant. Overnight in Seam Reap.
Day 14: Siem Reap - Departure (B/L)
Begin the day with a drive to Chong Kneas to visit the fishing village by a private boat. Cruise through the fishing villages of the Tonle Sap Lake to discover the natural splendor and old lifestyle of the country. If time permits, we will also visit the local market and artisan d’Angkor workshop. Free at leisure till transfer to Siem Reap International airport for your onward flight.
Prices are quoted in US dollars per person base on minimum two travelers
Rates vary depend on group size, travel time, accommodation level, transportation and other service. Please contact us to get the best price!
BEST OF VIETNAM & CAMBODIA 14 DAYS |
Hotel Class |
Valid from 1 May 2017 to 30 Apr 2018. Price per person in USD for private party of |
2 – 3 persons |
4 - 5 persons |
6 – 8 persons |
Single Supplement |
Superior |
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TOUR PRICE INCLUDES:
+ 10 nights hotel accommodation in a shared twin or shared double room
+ 01 night cruise accommodation (shared boat with private twin or double cabin, in-house english speaking guide)
+ Round-trip ticket on the train shared in superior 4-berth cabin (4 persons/cabin)
+ Speed boat from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh (Shared boat)
+ Tours and transfers as mentioned by private air conditioned vehicle
+ English speaking guide (for other languages supplements apply)
+ Meals as specified in the itinerary (B = breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner).
+ Entrance fees for mentioned visits
+ Boat trip as mentioned in the itinerary
+ Vietnam visa on arrival pre-approved letter
+ Mineral water on coach
TOUR PRICE EXCLUDES:
+ All International flight tickets from/to Vietnam
+ Domestic flight tickets (max 20kg baggage and 7kg hand luggage per person):
- Hanoi - Hue: 110 USD/ ticket (can book lower price base on time of booking)
- Da Nang - Saigon: 110 USD/ ticket (can book lower price base on time of booking)
- Phnom Penh – Siem Reap: from 110 USD/ticket (it is subject to change)
+ Travel insurance
+ Personal Expenses
+ All drinks and any meals not mentioned above in the day-by-day itinerary
+ Optional tours, kayaking, Spa, Beauty & Massage on boat in Ha Long
+ Vietnam Visa stamp fee 25 USD/person
+ Cambodia Visa stamp fee at border gate (34 USD/person)
+ Tip for drivers and guides. Our suggestion minimum tip: from 3 USD/person/day for driver and 5 USD/person/day for guides
+ Compulsory gala dinners during festive seasons and Peak Season Surcharges for the following periods:
-The Hung Kings Anniversary from 6 April 2017 to 7 April 2017
- Victory Day & Labour Day from 29 April 2017 to 02 May 2017
- Independent Day from 02 September to 03 September 2017
- Christmas Eve gala dinner (December 24, 2017)
- New Year’s Eve gala dinner (December 31, 2017)
- New Year & Holiday: 24 December 2017 to 10 January 2018
- Lunar New Year from 15 Feb 2018 to 20 February 2018
+ Early check in or late checkout are not mentioned in our program
- Check in time at hotel 14:00pm - Check out time at hotel 12:00pm
+ Other services not mentioned above
RECOMMENDED HOTELS:
Cities |
Hotels List or similar |
Room Type |
Website |
Superior Category/ 3-star hotel |
Hanoi |
Thien Thai Hotel 3* |
Deluxe room |
www.thienthaihotel.com |
Sapa |
Sunny Mountain Hotel 3* |
Superior room |
www.sunnymountainhotel.com |
Halong |
Vspirit Cruise 3* |
Deluxe cabin |
www.vspiritcruises.com |
Hue |
Asia Hue Hotel 3*+ |
Deluxe room |
www.asiahotel.com.vn |
Hoian |
Belle Maison Hadana Resort 4* |
Deluxe room |
www.bellemaisonhadana.com |
Ho Chi Minh |
Le Duy Hotel 3* |
Deluxe room |
www.leduyhotel.com.vn |
Signature Saigon Hotel 3* |
Deluxe room |
www.signaturesaigonhotel.vn |
Chau Doc |
Chau Pho Hotel 3* |
Superior room |
www.chauphohotel.com |
Phnom Penh |
River Home Boutique 3* |
Deluxe room |
www.riverhomeboutiquehotel.com |
Siem Reap |
Central Boutique Angkor Hotel 3* |
Boutique room |
www.centralboutiqueangkorhotel.com |