Premium Cambodia & Vietnam in Depth

Intrepid Travel · 20 days

4.6

10 Reviews

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Duration

20 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Unknown

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Discover the incredible diversity, cuisines, histories and beauty of Cambodia and Vietnam on a 20-day Premium adventure. Learn about the confronting Khmer legacy in Phnom Penh, enjoy Vietnam's authentic cuisine at a cooking class with a local chef in Hue and explore the grand architecture of Hanoi.

Highlights

Enjoy two marvellous Feature Stays – an overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay on a traditional junk-style boat and a three-night stay at a resort in Siem Reap, offering a tropical oasis escape.
Discover traditional Cambodian life at Skun Village and Santuk Silk Farm, known for empowering local women as expert weavers. Learn their stories and make the most of your time with the locals.
Get to the heart of Vietnamese culture with Exclusive Experiences, including a soul-stirring Hat Xam performance and a cooking class with a local chef in Hue.
See the important sights of Phnom Penh on a full day guided tour. Visit the sobering Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, then stop by a working Buddhist monastery to meet the resident monks, a Premium Exclusive Experience
Enjoy two days of fully guided temple tours in Siem Reap, with in-depth insights into the history of these extraordinary structures and plenty of time at Angkor Wat, plus an Exclusive Experience morning accompanied by a private archaeological guide.

Trip Details

Duration

20 days

Transportation

Boat,Plane,Private Minibus

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Finishes

Hanoi, Cambodia

Accommodations

Unknown

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Phnom Penh

Sua s'dei! Welcome to Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s lively capital city. You’ll be met at the airport by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. If you arrive early, why not go for a stroll and discover the city’s French architecture or check out the National Museum and its fascinating collection of Khmer craftsmanship. Your adventure officially begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight, where you’ll meet your trip leader and fellow travellers. After, join your group for dinner at Malis Restaurant – an upmarket dining spot that’s committed to preserving and serving Cambodia's traditional cuisine. Maybe cap off the night with a cocktail at the Le Moon Rooftop at Amanjaya Pancam Hotel.

Included Activities:

Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Phnom Penh - Welcome Dinner

Accommodation:

Anik Palace Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Phnom Penh

This morning, you’ll visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, which will tell the story of the tragic legacy of the Khmer Rouge. Then, your afternoon is free to explore at your own pace. Maybe visit Wat Phnom – the temple that gave rise to the city’s foundation in the 15th century – or the Royal Palace and sacred Silver Pagoda. Tonight, perhaps grab dinner with your group or wander the city and soak up the nighttime atmosphere.

Included Activities:

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

Optional Activities:

Phnom Penh - Wat Phnom (2 USD)
Phnom Penh - National Museum (10 USD)
Phnom Penh - Cyclo tour (4 USD)

Accommodation:

Anik Palace Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Siem Reap

After breakfast this morning, you’ll go on a journey from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap in a comfortable private vehicle. Discover traditional Cambodian life at Skun Village and learn about the town’s deep-fried tarantulas and other insects. You’ll also visit Santuk Silk Farm to learn about silk production and its work as a social enterprise, employing local women as artisan weavers. Share a simple local lunch prepared by the weavers before you continue to Siem Reap, stopping to see historic bridges along the way before arriving at your hotel. This tropical oasis boasts three pools and an excellent restaurant with a focus on wellness. Bright and spacious rooms are in harmony with the lush grounds and feature a veranda, private garden and rain showers. Tonight, head out for dinner and a theatre show at Angkor Village Apsara Theatre, where you’ll watch Khmer traditional dance and dine on Khmer favourites.

Included Activities:

Santuk Silk Farm Tour and Lunch
Skun Village Market Stop
Siem Reap - Khmer Theater Dinner

Accommodation:

Navutu Dreams Resort or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Siem Reap

If you choose, you can embrace a very early start today and experience a sunrise visit to the Angkor complex (optional). After, you'll spend the day discovering the fantastic temples of Angkor. For the first half of the day, you’ll be accompanied by a private Angkor Wat archaeological guide, who will provide expert knowledge and insight along the way. Begin at Angkor Wat – the largest and most complete structure and the only one of Angkor's temples with an entrance facing west. For lunch, visit the Sala Bai Hotel School, where underprivileged local youths learn skills to find gainful employment in the hospitality industry. Enjoy a meal prepared by students at the school, then visit Angkor Thom – the 'Great Royal City' – a temple famous for its series of colossal human faces carved in stone. From here, you’ll head out of town to an ancient working monastery to gain a special insight into the life of a monk and Theravada Buddhism. Meet the monks, enjoy a sacred water blessing for good luck and prosperity and have a red band tied around your wrist to keep you safe in your travels. The rest of the evening can be spent exploring the bars of Siem Reap or relaxing in at your resort.

Included Activities:

Siem Reap - Angkor Temples Guided Tour
Siem Reap - Three day Angkor Pass
Siem Reap - Lunch at The Spoon Restaurant
Siem Reap - Angkor Wat Archaeologist Guide

Optional Activities:

Siem Reap - Phare Circus Ticket (18 USD)

Accommodation:

Navutu Dreams Resort or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Siem Reap

After breakfast, it’s off to the Ta Prohm temple, which has large trees embedded in the stone foundations – powerful symbols of nature. Next, visit Banteay Srei to snap some pictures of the temple’s intricate stone carvings. You can head back to the resort explore Siem Reap town, or use your ticket for the Angkor ruins to continue exploring the site. Tonight, enjoy a final dinner in the Khmer countryside to say farewell to your group and Cambodia. Amid a rustic and romantic setting, you’ll sit down for a private meal in the rice fields of rural Siem Reap .

Included Activities:

Siem Reap - Banteay Srei Temple visit
Siem Reap - Angkor Temples Guided Tour
Siem Reap - Private Khmer Countryside Farewell Dinner

Optional Activities:

Siem Reap - Khmer massage (17 USD)

Accommodation:

Navutu Dreams Resort or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Ho Chi Minh City

Today, catch an unescorted flight to Ho Chi Minh City where you'll be met and transferred to your hotel. If you arrive early, why not get out and explore the city at your own pace and perhaps enjoy a banh mi - a short baguette fill with a variety of tasty ingredients. This evening, there will be a second group meeting to meet your new group and new leader. Then head out for dinner at a restaurant that is a piece of Vietnamese history – this building was an old opium refinery station built in 1861, and nods to its past are still visible today. Here, you’ll feast on a menu bursting with classic dishes and southern Vietnamese favourites.

Included Activities:

Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Ho Chi Minh City - Welcome Dinner
Fast Track Airport Service on Arrival

Accommodation:

Alagon Saigon Hotel & Spa or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Mekong Delta

Kick off your first full day of the trip with a visit to the Mekong Delta – a network of rivers and canals with floating markets and rice paddies. After breakfast, drive south towards this region via Ben Tre. Here, you’ll board a private boat to cruise the delta, stopping at some coconut gardens to visit a local home where you can sample tropical fruits and coconut jams. After, return to the waterways of the delta on sampans (small rowing boats) and row past the coconut trees and stilt houses that flank the river. Back on land, take a tuk-tuk tour around the villages for a glimpse at rural life and learn how the coconut industry is woven into the community here. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Ho Chi Minh City for a free evening.

Included Activities:

Mekong Delta - Boat cruise with visits to local producers

Accommodation:

Alagon Saigon Hotel & Spa or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Ho Chi Minh City

This morning, head on a half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels – an extensive underground network (some 200 kms) of tunnels dug initially by the Viet Minh and later expanded by the Viet Cong. They housed hospitals, dwellings and schools and were extensively used for refuge, storage and as a military base. As you explore this labyrinth, your leader will explain more about its history and the 1968 Tet Offensive and you will meet with a war veteran for a first-hand account of life during the war. A section of the tunnels has been widened to give visitors a feel for what the underground life must have been like. These tunnels will be quite hot and can get claustrophobic, so there’s an option to view them from above ground if you’d like. Return to Ho Chi Minh City for an afternoon at leisure. Perhaps pay a visit to renowned TV chef Luke Nguyen’s Vietnam House Restaurant for an elevated modern twist on traditional Vietnamese cuisine.

Included Activities:

Ho Chi Minh City - Vietnam War Veteran Meeting
Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels

Accommodation:

Alagon Saigon Hotel & Spa or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City - Hoi An

This morning, see Ho Chi Minh City through the eyes of a local during a bus and walking tour with your leader. Visit the Reunification Palace to learn about the end of the war and then take a sobering trip to the War Remnants Museum after stopping by the Notre Dame Cathedral. Stroll the city’s streets and notice the many French buildings along the way, including the main post office and Ho Chi Minh City Hall, modelled on Paris’s Hotel de Ville. Later this afternoon, fly to Hoi An, a riverside town in central Vietnam.

Included Activities:

Ho Chi Minh City - War Remnants Museum
Ho Chi Minh City - Reunification Palace

Accommodation:

Hoi An Delicacy Hotel & Spa or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Hoi An

Join your leader on a walking tour this morning to discover Hoi An’s ancient architecture and unique mix of influences. With its charming low tiled houses and tranquil feel, this is a delightful town to wander around. Start by visiting an opulently decorated historic house that was once home to a prominent trader. Then, cross the Japanese Covered Bridge, stop by the Chinese assembly hall and pay a visit to a local museum to learn more about the history you’ve uncovered on the walk. After, sit down to a lunch with the group. This afternoon you’re free to make the most of Hoi An and its surrounding areas. Your leader can provide suggestions if you need inspiration!

Included Activities:

Hoi An - Old Town walking tour

Optional Activities:

Hoi An - Food Adventure Urban Adventure (39 USD)

Accommodation:

Hoi An Delicacy Hotel & Spa or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Hoi An

Once a significant port of the Champa Kingdom, Hoi An remains home to many Cham descendants today. This morning, your leader will guide you through My Son Cham – a collection of temples constructed by the Kings of Champa that date back to the 4th century. Learn about the ancient architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage site and see the craters created by American bombs during the war. After exploring the temples, experience an Apsara dance performance, featuring sparkling traditional costumes, panpipes and drums. The afternoon is free for you to explore – maybe visit one of the many tailor shops and get a custom outfit or relax by the pool at your hotel.

Included Activities:

Hoi An - My Son Tour

Accommodation:

Hoi An Delicacy Hotel & Spa or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Hue

Head for Hue this morning, the former imperial capital and hub of Vietnam's historic past. On the way, pass through the Hai Van Pass – a scenic mountainous stretch of highway with views across Lang Co beach. Arrive in Hue and discover its eclectic mix of busy streets and peaceful beauty. In the afternoon, visit the Imperial Citadel, including the Forbidden Purple City. The latter was almost completely destroyed during the Tet Offensive in the Vietnam War, but its humble, foliage-covered ruins stand as a testament to its proud history. Here, your leader will provide share insights into the devastating damage endured during the war.

Included Activities:

Hue - Imperial City half day guided tour

Accommodation:

Pilgrimage Village Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Hue

Ready your appetite as today you’ll be diving into Hue’s culinary scene. First up, head to a street food eatery for Bun Bo Hue. This spicy noodle soup is usually made with beef and pig knuckles and is an absolute must-try in Hue. Next, meet a local chef and explore a local market where you can taste and smell all the herbs and ingredients that bring local dishes to life while learning about the culture of Vietnamese cuisine. Stop for lunch then continue to the local chef’s home and discover how to cook up dishes using the fresh ingredients from the market. Later, visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, an active Buddhist monastery and unofficial symbol of Hue that dates back to 1601. You’ll also visit the elaborate royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, with its beautiful lake, frangipani and pine trees, and the Imperial Citadel.

Included Activities:

Hue - Royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc
Hue - Thien Mu Pagoda
Hue - Market Tour and Cooking Class
Hue - Bun Bo Hue breakfast

Accommodation:

Pilgrimage Village Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Hanoi

Fly from Hue to Hanoi today. Settle in when you arrive and then get your bearings with a leader-led walk, where you’ll wander the ancient 36 Streets to discover shop-lined alleys that sell everything from souvenirs to silk clothing. In the afternoon, join your group again for a traditional Hat Xam performance. Hat Xam is a Northern Vietnamese art form that originated in the Tran Dynasty. Originally performed by blind performers, it was enjoyed by local working-class audiences until the late 1950s, when a wave of communism deemed all art forms to be corrupting influences. This style of performance is rare today, but you and your group will be taken to a private clubhouse for an exclusive performance, which is one of the few places where such artists still perform acoustically.

Included Activities:

Hanoi - Hat Xam performance
Hanoi - Old Quarter Tour

Accommodation:

Signature by M Village Tho Nhuom Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Mai Chau

Leave Hanoi this morning in a private coach transfer to Mai Chau. This peaceful town is situated in a valley and surrounded by green mountains, making it famous for its breathtaking scenery and friendly hilltribe communities. Admire the views, fuel up over lunch and visit Vun Art – a social enterprise that employs people with disabilities to make art pieces with recycled silk scraps. Then, spend some time learning the story of the vibrant Muong ethnic group, native to this region, at the Muong Museum. Check into your accommodation in the afternoon and enjoy some free time to unwind and relax.

Included Activities:

Mai Chau – Muong Museum
Mai Chau - Vun Art NGO Visit

Accommodation:

Mai Chau Hideaway Lake Resort or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 16: Mai Chau

Today your Leader will take you on a walk through a series of Mai Chau villages. Along the way you’ll pass terraced rice fields and traditional stilted houses, before getting an up-close view of traditional cotton textile making and hearing from a local artisan for insights into Thai garment craftsmanship. Next, you will learn how to make Ruou Can, a traditional fermented rice wine, as well as the cultural significance behind each step of the process. After lunch hosted by a local family, the rest of the day is free for you to spend as you wish. Relax at your hotel or speak with you Leader about optional activities in the area.

Included Activities:

Mai Chau - Village Visit

Accommodation:

Mai Chau Ecolodge or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 17: Hanoi

Head back to Hanoi this morning for a guided half-day tour of the city with your leader, gaining insights into its history during visits to the Temple of Literature, One Pillar Pagoda and the former residence of Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam’s most famous revolutionary. Enjoy lunch at KOTO restaurant – an Intrepid Foundation supported program that teaches disadvantaged youth hospitality skills. The evening is yours to spend as you wish. Walking is a great way to explore the city, especially if you're interested in its many lakes and parks. You'll see that this northern capital can be quieter than its southern counterpart, and the West Lake, north of the main city, is an ideal place to interact with the locals and relax by its banks.

Included Activities:

Hanoi - Temple of Literature
Hanoi - One Pillar Pagoda & HCM stilt house
Hanoi - KOTO lunch

Accommodation:

Signature by M Village Tho Nhuom Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 18: Halong Bay

Today you’ll drive to Ha Long Bay – a UNESCO World Heritage site where karsts and islets create a spectacular sight. There’s no better way to appreciate the bay’s beauty than by boat – your Feature Stay accommodation for the evening. Carefully designed with traditional touches and modern amenities, you can sit back in comfort as you weave through the limestone islets, karsts and caves. Visit some of the local sights, such as a vibrant fishing village to learn about local life or a cave to appreciate its interesting rock formations with you leader, then retire to the boat for a seafood lunch. In the afternoon you will have opportunities to swim, kayak, or simply relax on the beach. This evening, dine on the boat’s deck and watch the sun go down.

Included Activities:

Halong Bay - Overnight Boat Cruise

Optional Activities:

Halong Bay - Kayaking Tour (250000 VND)

Accommodation:

Emeraude Cruise (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 19: Hanoi

In the morning, enjoy breakfast on board the boat and perhaps take part in some optional Tai Chi to start off the day. Sail back to the port, disembark and travel back to Hanoi. Arriving back in the capital, enjoy some time to wander around and enjoy some of the city’s attractions you may have missed the first time. You can shop on Hang Gai Street or perhaps enjoy some afternoon tea at the Metropole Hotel. In the evening, join your group and leader for a final dinner in a Hanoi restaurant, sharing stories and reflecting on the highlights of your adventure with your newfound friends.

Included Activities:

Hanoi - Farewell Dinner
Halong Bay - Tai Chi

Optional Activities:

Hanoi - Hoa Lo 'Hanoi Hilton' Prison (50000 VND)

Accommodation:

Signature by M Village Tho Nhuom Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 20: Hanoi

Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast. If you wish to spend more time in Hanoi, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Optional Activities:

Hanoi - Street Food Experience Urban Adventure (29 USD)
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 $8,620

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 20 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 02 Jan 2027

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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

Sheri

Traveled, February 2024

02/29/2024

I was blown away by intrepid, what a great way to travel! You see all the must sees and many things off the beaten path you can't easily find on your own. Intrepid guides are so knowledgeable and add so much about the history and culture. Intrepid makes travel easy and you don't have to think, just enjoy!!

4.5

Rupert

Traveled, February 2024

02/15/2024

Daro, is a truly wonderful leader. I feel blessed that he was my leader. He is now a good friend.

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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