Best of Cambodia & Vietnam

Intrepid Travel · 17 days
Best of Cambodia & Vietnam
Best of Cambodia & Vietnam
Best of Cambodia & Vietnam
Best of Cambodia & Vietnam
Best of Cambodia & Vietnam
Best of Cambodia & Vietnam
Best of Cambodia & Vietnam
Best of Cambodia & Vietnam
Best of Cambodia & Vietnam
Best of Cambodia & Vietnam
Best of Cambodia & Vietnam
Best of Cambodia & Vietnam
Best of Cambodia & Vietnam
Best of Cambodia & Vietnam
Best of Cambodia & Vietnam
Best of Cambodia & Vietnam
Best of Cambodia & Vietnam
17 Days
From AUD $3180
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating


 (5 reviews)

Best of Cambodia & Vietnam

Best of Cambodia & Vietnam

Intrepid Travel · 17 days
4.6
5 Reviews
View Map
Duration

17 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Take a fast-paced and far-flung adventure through the heart of Vietnam and Cambodia. On this journey with a small group of likeminded travellers, you’ll spend 17 days traversing the diverse South East Asian countryside through local villages, past stunning coastlines and into bustling cities.

Highlights

  • Let a local expert bring Cambodia’s ancient history to life as you temple-hop at the Angkor complex – one of South East Asia's most stunning attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Learn the confronting yet important history of Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek in Phnom Penh.
  • Spend an unforgettable night on a boat in Ha Long Bay – one of Vietnam’s most remarkable natural wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage site. After, visit a centre dedicated to turning the bay’s discarded trash into beautiful, handcrafted items.
  • Sample local food wherever you go – from a seafood dinner on Ha Long Bay, a meal at a Buddhist monastery, coconut candy in the Mekong Delta and dinner at KOTO restaurant, you won’t go hungry!
  • Visit some of the must-see sights with your small group on walking tours in Hoi An and the Temple of Literature in Hanoi, as well as plenty of free time to make your own local discoveries.

Trip Details

Duration

17 days

Transportation

Boat,Overnight sleeper train,Plane,Public Bus,Private minibus,Taxi,Motorbike,Sampan,Tuk-tuk

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Bangkok, Cambodia

Finishes

Hanoi, Cambodia

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Bangkok
Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand. Your adventure begins with an important welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight in Bangkok. This city has so much to offer – if you have time to explore, maybe take a riverboat to Chinatown to wander the crowded streets, uncover the magnificent Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, pay a visit to Wat Pho (home to the country's largest reclining Buddha), wander down the tourist mecca of Khao San Road, or indulge in some Thai massage. After the meeting, you might like to gather your fellow travellers and tuck into some world-renowned street food.

Optional Activities:

  • Bangkok - Wat Pho (300 THB)
  • Bangkok - Grand Palace (500 THB)
  • Bangkok - Temple & River of Kings Urban Adventure (2900 THB)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
2
Day 2: Siem Reap
You’ll have a long drive by private minibus today, so get your favourite playlist or a good book ready. You’ll stop for lunch along the way, before arriving in Siem Reap – this small but expanding town is the gateway to Angkor. This is the most popular destination for travellers in all of Cambodia (maybe even in all Southeast Asia!). You'll probably notice a change of pace here, so maybe take a walk and enjoy the atmosphere. You could start by hitting the local markets to try some delicious street food.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
3
Day 3: Angkor Wat/ Siem Reap
Today, spend a full day temple-hopping with your local guide to make the most of your visit to the world-famous complex, built between the ninth and 13th centuries when the Khmer empire was the pre-eminent influence in Southeast Asia. The ruins are scattered over some 160 square km, but the main cluster of temples is close to Siem Reap, including Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Prohm. The temples were believed to represent the cosmic world and were set in perfect balance, symmetry and composition. The intricately carved bas-reliefs and architectural designs are mind-blowing, and there are spectacular photo opportunities at any time of day. This is the absolute highlight of your trip, with the added insight and knowledge of a local guide at your side, so take your time and soak it in.

Included Activities:

  • Siem Reap - Angkor Temples Guided Tour
  • Siem Reap - One day Angkor Pass

Optional Activities:

  • Siem Reap - Khmer massage (17 USD)
  • Siem Reap - Cambodia Phare Circus performance (18 USD)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
4
Day 4: Siem Reap
This morning, embark on a private local boat to discover the floating villages and local daily lives of Chhong Kneas – a trading port of agricultural products on the edge of Tonle Sap Lake, also known as the Great Lake of Cambodia. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about the local’s unique lifestyle on the waters and how people and nature are intertwined in the most profound sense. This afternoon, return to Siem Reap and enjoy a free evening.

Included Activities:

  • Siem Reap - Chong Kneas Floating Village boat trip

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
5
Day 5: Phnom Penh
After breakfast, leave Siem Reap this morning and travel to Phnom Penh in a private minibus. The journey is a great opportunity to see the real Cambodia, with several stops at points of interest along the way. Visit the cottage industry at Santuk Silk Farm, where local women in the rural community are provided the opportunity for financial freedom to support their families. You’ll learn about the process from the silkworms to the final products. You’ll also stop at Skuon Market, where you might like to sample the local cuisine (deep-fried spiders). Cambodia's capital is set on a major junction of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers and boasts some fine examples of French-influenced architecture. This afternoon, enjoy some free time. Maybe explore Wat Phnom – a peaceful temple situated on a hill. A great way to see the city's key landmarks is on a cyclo tour, which generally covers the Psar Thmei (Central Market), US Embassy, Wat Phnom, Mekong riverfront, Independence Monument and Royal Palace.

Included Activities:

  • Kampong Thom - Santuk Silk Farm

Optional Activities:

  • Phnom Penh - Cyclo tour (4 USD)
  • Phnom Penh - Wat Phnom (2 USD)
  • Phnom Penh - Khmer massage (8 USD)
  • Phnom Penh - Mekong Sunset & drink (15 USD)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
6
Day 6: Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh remains a living relic of the country’s past struggles and successes. Your day includes visits to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, which tell the story of the tragic legacy of the Khmer Rouge. S21 is a former school that served as a Khmer Rouge torture centre, and it’s estimated that more than 20,000 people were held and tortured here. The Killing Fields of Choeung Ek are home to a stupa made up of some 8000 human skulls, marking the execution ground for the torture victims of Tuol Sleng. After visiting both sites, you’ll have free time for the rest of the day. Maybe learn about a brighter period in Cambodian history with a visit to the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda. Alternatively, the National Museum, housed in a beautiful traditional building, is a great place to see some excellent Khmer craftsmanship. An ideal way to spend the late afternoon and evening is to stroll along the famous Sisowath Quay and enjoy a coffee or cocktail at one of the many riverside cafes.

Included Activities:

  • Phnom Penh - Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21)
  • Phnom Penh - The Killing Fields of Choeung Ek

Optional Activities:

  • Phnom Penh - Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda (10 USD)
  • Phnom Penh - National Museum (10 USD)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
7
Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City
This morning, travel by local bus from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City. Along the way, see the Neak Loeung Bridge, which is the biggest bridge in Cambodia, and then stop for lunch after immigration. Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City in the late afternoon. Maybe discover the city’s blend of old and new, east and west on a self-paced walk. Be sure to sample a baguette or some of the excellent coffee on offer – both markers of the city's strong French influence.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
8
Day 8: Ho Chi Minh City
Today is a free day to explore Ho Chi Minh City at your own pace. You’ll have another welcome meeting at 6 pm. Before then, maybe head to Pham Ngu Lao Street to see the local open-aired market or take an Urban Adventure with an expert local guide. After the meeting tonight, why not get to know your new fellow travellers over an optional group dinner?

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
9
Day 9: Mekong Delta - Ho Chi Minh City
Today you'll travel south by private minibus and spend the day exploring the Mekong Delta. Board a private boat and traverse the intricate waterways – soak up the tranquil surroundings as you float through this fertile landscape, often referred to as ‘the rice bowl of Vietnam’. Disembark at Ben Tre and visit the coconut gardens, stopping at a local home to sample tropical fruits and coconut jams before paddling in sampans (small rowing boats). Take a tuk-tuk tour around the villages, learning about rural life and how the locals make their living. Then, have lunch at a restaurant in the heart of the delta, sampling regional specialties like elephant ear fish. After the cruise, return via bus to Ho Chi Minh City.

Included Activities:

  • Mekong Delta - Mekong Delta Day Trip & Village Tuk-Tuk Tour
  • Mekong Delta - Lunch

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
10
Day 10: Hoi An
This morning, say goodbye to Ho Chi Minh City and fly north to Danang. From here you’ll take a bus to Hoi An, with the five spectacular peaks of the Marble Mountains as a backdrop. Once in Hoi An, your leader will take you on a walking tour of the town, influenced over the years by Europe, China and Vietnam. The town was a major trading port from the 17th century onwards, and the outside influences can be seen all over its architecture, with pagodas and assembly halls found across the town. Wander the ancient streets that look much like they did over a century ago and take in a historic house (formerly home to a prominent trader), the Japanese Covered Bridge, a Chinese assembly hall and a museum. Then, your night is free to hit one of the waterside restaurants.

Included Activities:

  • Hoi An - Old Town walking tour

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
11
Day 11: Hoi An
Enjoy a free day in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hoi An. You may like to wander the Central Market and the street stalls selling paintings, woodwork, ceramics, lanterns and much more. Hoi An is also famous for its talented tailors who can make beautiful items to order within a few hours. For those still feeling adventurous, why not hire a bicycle and tour the surrounding countryside? This is one of the best ways to get an insight into rural Vietnam. You also have the option to head out on a daytrip to My Son Cham – a UNESCO World Heritage-listed temple complex that reflects the rich cultural traditions of the Cham civilisation.

Optional Activities:

  • Hoi An - Food Adventure Urban Adventure (39 USD)
  • Hoi An - Private Bike, Boat and Dinner Experience (69 USD)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
12
Day 12: Hue
Leave Hoi An today and journey across the dramatic Hai Van Pass – a sometimes bumpy but incredibly scenic stretch of highway with views of Lang Co Beach. Make a quick photo stop on the way, then continue to Hue – the former imperial capital of Vietnam. When you arrive, join your leader for a tour of the Imperial Citadel – this fortress houses the Imperial City and the citadel-within-a-citadel, the Forbidden Purple City. This icon was almost completely destroyed during the Vietnam/American War, and the ruins and holes left by bombs are a reminder of the destruction that was caused. In your free time you might like to visit Dong Ba Market, which offers locally made goods, fresh produce and tantalising street food.

Included Activities:

  • Hue - Imperial City entrance and guided visit

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
13
Day 13: Hue - Overnight Train
Today’s adventure will be on the back of a motorbike! You’ll have your own driver who will take you around the Imperial Citadel and Thien Mu Pagoda – the unofficial symbol of Hue. This site dates back to 1601 and is still an active Buddhist monastery. Here, you’ll also see the car left by a monk who set himself alight to protest the treatment of Buddhists by the South Vietnamese regime. Ride to a special lunch spot at a Buddhist monastery and sit down to a vegetarian feast, then drive to the royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, which is set on a lake surrounded by frangipani bushes and pine trees. In the evening, board an overnight train to Hanoi.

Included Activities:

  • Hue - Royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc
  • Hue - Highlights & back streets tour by motorbike
  • Hue - Vegetarian Lunch at Pagoda
  • Hue - Thien Mu Pagoda

Accommodation:

  • Overnight sleeper train (Number of Nights: 1)
14
Day 14: Hanoi
Arrive in Hanoi early this morning and transfer to your hotel. Vietnam’s capital is famous for its beautiful lakes, shaded boulevards, public parks and beautiful Old Quarter. Soak up some free time to relax, then take a walking tour through the city. In your free time, maybe wander through the '36 Streets’ of the historic Old Quarter, chill out by the beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake, or visit the Fine Arts Museum. This museum plays a crucial role in maintaining and promoting the cultural heritage of Vietnam’s ethnic communities.

Included Activities:

  • Hanoi - Temple of Literature
  • Hanoi - One Pillar Pagoda & HCM stilt house
  • Hanoi - Old Quarter Walking Tour

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
15
Day 15: Halong Bay
Travel by private minibus to the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage site of Ha Long Bay. This is one of Vietnam’s most beautiful places, a secluded bay of emerald waters flecked with limestone islands and caves. When you arrive, you’ll hop on a cruise to explore Surprise Cave and the surrounding rock formations. In the warmer months, perhaps go kayaking or opt for a swim from Ti Top Island. On board, there’ll be a dining room and bar where you’ll enjoy your meals, including fresh seafood for lunch and dinner. Spend the night on the boat, maybe having a drink with your fellow travellers at the bar, beneath a sky alive with starlight.

Included Activities:

  • Halong Bay - Overnight Boat Cruise
  • Halong Bay - Cave entry

Optional Activities:

  • Halong Bay - Kayaking Tour (250000 VND)

Accommodation:

  • Overnight boat (Number of Nights: 1)
16
Day 16: Hanoi
Wake up on the waters of Ha Long Bay – if you’re keen, you could watch the sunrise from the deck this morning, watching the bay come alive with eagles, fishermen and sunlight. Then, visit The Green Life Centre – this organisation is committed to turning Ha Long Bay’s trash into treasure by collecting discarded items and skilfully turning them into handicrafts. Meet the team behind this important cause and learn how to transform rubbish into a useful and reusable bag. After your visit, return by bus to Hanoi. This afternoon, you’ll have free time to explore Hanoi's sights or relax at a cafe. Maybe stop for a bia hoi (freshly brewed draught beer) at one of the microbars in the Old Quarter. Tonight, there will be a farewell dinner at KOTO restaurant – an organisation that supports disadvantaged youth with careers in the hospitality industry.

Included Activities:

  • Hanoi - KOTO dinner
  • Halong Bay - The Green Life Visit

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
17
Day 17: Hanoi
Today, your exploration of Vietnam comes to an end. There are no activities planned for today and you can leave at any time after checking out. If you’d like to extend your stay and explore Hanoi, and it’s recommended that you do, just reach out to your booking agent ahead of time.

Optional Activities:

  • Hanoi - Street Food Experience Urban Adventure (29 USD)
  • Hanoi - Hoa Lo 'Hanoi Hilton' Prison (50000 VND)
  • Hanoi - Fine Arts Museum (30000 VND)
  • Hanoi - Ninh Binh Mini Adventure (TVAN) (355 USD)
  • Hiking in Sapa (TVAG) (432 USD)
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
  • Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
  • Recommended gratuities/tipping
  • Optional activities/tours
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
Important Information
Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
  • Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
  • Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.
AUD $3,180
(Tour only)
Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 17 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Take a fast-paced and far-flung adventure through the heart of Vietnam and Cambodia. On this journey with a small group of likeminded travellers, you’ll spend 17 days traversing the diverse South East Asian countryside through local villages, past stunning coastlines and into bustling cities.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 25 Jan 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
Excellent
4.5
Guide
Excellent
4.5
Itinerary
Excellent
4.5
Accommodations
Excellent
4.5
Transportation
Excellent
4.5
Tour Operator
Excellent
4.5
Food
Excellent
4.5
4.5
Albert
Traveled, November 2023

11/21/2023

Trip was great. The transfer cost from Hanoi city to airport was for 39 dollars overpriced . At the hotel it was 12 dollars. Was not happy with that. My ride from the airport was probably too much as well at 33 dollars

4.5
Michelle
Traveled, August 2023

08/26/2023

Wow what a trip. It is a lot of travel at quite a fast pace but that makes you see more. Motorcycle, cycling, boat, train, tuk tuk and cyclo are some of the modes of transport. Food culture scenery and friendship are just some of the good aspects. Do it and be amazed.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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