Premium Vietnam & Cambodia

Intrepid Travel · 13 days

4.6

19 Reviews

Duration

13 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Unknown

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Immerse yourself in the rich historic and cultural heritage of Vietnam and Cambodia on a 13-day Premium adventure. Uncover the oriental influences of the historic Asian traders, settlers and indigenous people that have made this part of the world a cornerstone for empires and colonies.

Includes

Meals: Breakfasts (12), Lunch (4), Dinner (6)
Accommodation: Hotel (8 nights), Halong Bay overnight boat feature stay (1 night), Siem Reap feature stay (3 nights)

Highlights

Soak up your surroundings during two Feature Stays – an overnight cruise in Halong Bay and a three-night stay at a resort in Siem Reap, offering a tropical oasis escape.
Explore the cities of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh with your local leaders who will help to uncover the diverse mix of influences and layered histories of each destination.
Taste the best of Vietnamese and Cambodian cuisine during Signature Experiences – including dining at a social enterprise aimed at providing vocational and hospitality skills to young workers in Hanoi.
Enjoy two days of 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 a Signature Experience accompanied by a private archaeological guide.
Visit the Cu Chi tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City with a war veteran who will share his first-hand account of life during the war.

Trip Details

Duration

13 days

Transportation

Boat, Plane, Private Minibus

Guide Language

English

Starts

Hanoi, Cambodia

Finishes

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Accommodations

Unknown

Travel Style

Explorer, Budget

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi

Xin chao! Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam’s vibrant capital city. When you arrive, you’ll be met at the airport by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight, where you’ll meet your trip leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, Hanoi is the perfect place to explore on foot. Maybe head to the city’s colourful Old Quarter or check out the Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum, showcasing ancient and contemporary Vietnamese art. This evening, join your leader for a welcome dinner at an award-winning restaurant in a beautiful villa. Dive into the world of Vietnamese cuisine as your leader introduces you to a range of classic dishes made with the freshest local ingredients.

Included Activities:

Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Hanoi - Welcome Dinner
Fast Track Airport Service on Arrival

Optional Activities:

Hanoi - Ninh Binh Mini Adventure (TVAN) (355 USD)
Hiking in Sapa (TVAG) (432 USD)

Accommodation:

The Ann Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Halong Bay

Depart Hanoi and travel to Ha Long Bay – one of the great natural treasures of Vietnam and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Board your Feature Stay accommodation for the evening – the sleek Capellacruise, featuring comfortable suites with private balconies and boasting an attentive, friendly crew. Set sail in style as unforgettable views of scattered islands and towering limestone karsts slowly unfold in front of you. Explore the bay and sit down for a seafood lunch on board. The sites you visit here will vary, but you may stop at a cave where your leader can point out interesting rock formations, or maybe a fishing village to learn about local life. In the afternoon, you’ll have the chance to swim, kayak or simply relax on the beach. Soak in the scenic surroundings with a dinner on deck before settling in for a night of stargazing and swapping stories.

Included Activities:

Halong Bay - Overnight Boat Cruise

Optional Activities:

Halong Bay - Kayaking Tour (250000 VND)

Accommodation:

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

Day 3: Hanoi

Start your day with a peaceful breakfast and some relaxation time on board the boat before returning to Hanoi in the mid-afternoon. Spend some free time exploring on your own, then join your group in the early evening for a leader-led walk through the city. From the French Quarter, you’ll head to the oldest ice cream shop in Hanoi to cool off before discovering more of the Old Quarter. Finish at a hidden traditional apartment for a classic Hanoian tea. Then, walk past historical landmarks including the Hanoi Opera House, Trang Tien Street, the Metropole hotel, the National State Bank, Hoan Kiem Lake, Hang Be Market and Cau Go Street, finishing at a traditional tube house.

Included Activities:

Hanoi – City Tour

Optional Activities:

Hanoi - Street Food Experience Urban Adventure (29 USD)

Accommodation:

The Ann Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Hoi An

After breakfast today, you’ll take a mid-morning flight to Hoi An. Enjoy a Vietnamese lunch in a quiet garden setting that feels more locally rooted than the busy tourist flow. Then, set off on a guided walking tour of Hoi An’s Old Town and discover a blend of treasures and cultural influences from the city’s history as a trading port. Follow pagoda-lined streets to a Chinese assembly hall, cross the Japanese Covered Bridge, enter the ornately decorated historic house of a former trader and check out a local museum. Hoi An’s trading port was particularly known for its pottery, and centuries-old pottery villages still exist to this day. No trip to Vietnam is complete without trying its famed coffee – your leader will take you to a local coffee shop where you can savour a delicious brew as you watch the hustle and bustle of Hoi An. Maybe try a traditional ca phe trung (coffee whipped with egg and sweetened condensed milk) or a refreshing iced coconut coffee.

Included Activities:

Hoi An - Old Town walking tour
Hoi An - Vietnamese Coffee Stop

Accommodation:

Legacy Hoian Resort or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Hoi An

Today, you are free to explore as you wish. Maybe set off by bike with a local guide for a casual cycle through emerald-green rice paddies and villages. Then, board a boat for an amazing Thu Bon River view. After, feast on authentic cuisine with a selection of Vietnamese dishes at a local family’s restaurant. Or, skip the cycling and head straight to a farm-to-table dining experience in the agricultural village of Tra Que. The town is famous for cultivating over 40 different types of vegetables and herbs, particularly the aromatic herbs used in local rice-noodle dishes.

Optional Activities:

Hoi An - Farm to Table dining experience at Tra Que Village and Mua restaurant (84 USD)
Hoi An - Private Bike, Boat and Dinner Experience (69 USD)

Accommodation:

Legacy Hoian Resort or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Ho Chi Minh City

This morning, fly to Ho Chi Minh City to start your exploration of this bustling hub. There’s no such thing as too much Vietnamese coffee, so start off by learning about the country’s coffee heritage and sustainable farming practices and prepare your own traditional Vietnamese coffee. After, take a city walk with your leader to see Ho Chi Minh City from past and present perspectives. Stroll past famous landmarks such as the ornate City People’s Committee Building, the City Opera House, a viewpoint of the CIA building, and the French-era Central Post Office. Landmarks and civic buildings contrast with the modern, commercial energy of the city centre – notice how beauty and sophistication sit alongside deeper layers of wartime and political history. In the evening, the food stalls at Ben Thanh Market might reel you in with the sweet and savoury scents of pho and bun mam.

Included Activities:

Ho Chi Minh City - Vietnamese Coffee Workshop
Ho Chi Minh City – City Tour

Accommodation:

Rex Saigon or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City

Today, head out for a Signature Experience at the Cu Chi Tunnels – an extensive underground network (some 200 km/124 mi) 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, you’ll be guided by a war veteran who will share a first-hand account of life during the war. He will also share his in-depth knowledge of the tunnel system. Your leader will explain more about its history and the 1968 Tet Offensive. A section of the tunnels has been widened to give visitors a feel for what underground life must have been like. After, return to Ho Chi Minh City for some free time. This evening, enjoy a final dinner with your fellow travellers at a highly regarded contemporary Vietnamese restaurant by renowned chef Ngo Thanh Hoa.

Included Activities:

Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels with war veteran

Accommodation:

Rex Saigon or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Phnom Penh

Wave goodbye to Vietnam today as you catch an unescorted flight to Phnom Penh, Cambodia's lively capital city, where you'll be met at the airport by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening, you’ll have a second meeting at 6 pm to meet your new group and local leader. If you arrive with time to spare, 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. After the meeting, join your group for dinner at Malis Restaurant – an upmarket dining spot that’s committed to preserving Cambodia's traditional cuisine. Maybe cap off the night with a cocktail at Le Moon Rooftop at Amanjaya Pancam Hotel.

Included Activities:

Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Phnom Penh - Welcome Dinner

Day 9: Phnom Penh

This morning, visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum to learn the story of the tragic legacy of the Khmer Rouge, and the Royal Palace, where you can see Throne Hall, topped by a 59 m (193.5 ft) tower inspired by the Bayon at Angkor. 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. 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 - Royal Palace

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 10: Siem Reap

After breakfast, 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, which the locals consume daily. 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, rustic, 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 at approximately 5 pm. You’ll love this boutique hotel’s location in the tree-shaded Royal District and its quiet pools, tropical gardens and art-filled spaces. 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:

Shinta Mani Angkor (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Siem Reap

If you like, head out earlier than the rest of your group to catch sunrise at the Angkor complex. After, you’ll spend the day discovering the fantastic temples with your leader. For the first half of the day, you’ll be accompanied by a private archaeological guide, who will provide expert knowledge and insight beginning at Angkor Wat – the largest and most complete structure and the only one of Angkor’s temples with an entrance facing west. Have lunch, at the Sala Bai Hotel School, where underprivileged local youths learn skills to find gainful employment in the hospitality industry. 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 Sala Bai
Siem Reap - Angkor Wat Archaeologist Guide

Optional Activities:

Siem Reap - Phare Circus Ticket (18 USD)

Accommodation:

Shinta Mani Angkor (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: 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 to explore Siem Reap town or use your ticket for the Angkor ruins to continue discovering 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:

Shinta Mani Angkor (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Siem Reap

Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you would like to extend your stay in Siem Reap, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (unless otherwise stated)
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 will do 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.

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 $6,960

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 13 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 18 Jan 2027

View Map

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

Andrew

Traveled, March 2024

03/13/2024

Vietnam and Cambodia, mind blowing lovely people lovely countries. I recommend. I have learned so much thank you intrepid .

4.5

Frances

Traveled, March 2024

03/13/2024

The Vietnam and Cambodia premium tour was excellent, a good mix of history and culture, wonderful guides especially Muny in Cambodia I would highly recommend this trip. I fell in love with Cambodia especially.

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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