Indochina Explorer – 19 Days

We explore the National Museum to marvel at the grandeur of Khmer history, the Silver Pagoda, and the impressive Royal Palace. We also visit the sobering Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and have some free time for personal exploration.

Fly to Siem Reap, the entrance to the ancient temples and the expansive Tonle Sap Lake. We embark on a scenic cruise across this stunning lake, where we’ll see floating villages complete with schools, restaurants, and medical facilities. In the late afternoon, we head into the Angkor complex to witness a breathtaking sunset.

The Angkor temples showcase 600 years (802-1432) of Khmer civilization, one of the most magnificent kingdoms in Asia. We dedicate the day to discovering these awe-inspiring temples, starting with an early morning visit to witness the sunrise over the architectural marvel of Angkor Wat. Our exploration continues to include other renowned temples such as Bayon, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Srei.

This morning, you'll be transferred from your hotel to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. You'll have some free time before a tour briefing on the Vietnam portion of our trip.

We stroll along the renowned Dong Khoi Street, passing landmarks such as the theatre, Rex Hotel, Town Hall, and Notre Dame Cathedral. We'll visit the Presidential Palace and the War Crimes Museum before heading to Chinatown, exploring Binh Tay Market, and admiring the intricately decorated Thien Hau Pagoda. In the afternoon, we make our way to the historic Cu Chi tunnels.

This morning, head into the heart of the Mekong Delta. In My Tho, we embark on a boat to navigate one of the Mekong's tributaries. Along the way, we visit local farmers and small-scale industries, and stroll through tropical fruit orchards. We then take sampans to explore the narrow canals of the Delta before making our way back to Saigon.

We take a flight to Hue, the former capital of Vietnam. Our journey begins with a visit to the Citadel, which once served as the residence of the emperors. We then board a dragon boat to glide along the Perfume River, reaching the Thien Mu Pagoda. In the afternoon, we drive to the tomb of Tu Duc, the 4th King of the Nguyen Dynasty. In the evening, enjoy a taste of Hue’s renowned cuisine.

Leave Hue for an impressive drive to Hoi An. Along the way, we'll visit the Danang Cham Museum, explore the Marble Mountains, and see the renowned China Beach. We reach the charming port town of Hoi An by mid-afternoon, where we'll take a short walking tour to appreciate its historic allure. In the evening, participate in an enjoyable cooking class at a local restaurant.

You'll have a day at leisure to explore the charming town with its many attractions. Later in the afternoon, you can opt for a relaxing boat trip along the Thu Bon River

This morning, we'll take a flight to Hanoi, the elegant capital of Vietnam. Our exploration will lead us through the captivating Old Quarter, which features 36 historic streets. We'll also visit the former prison known as the 'Hanoi Hilton.' In the evening, enjoy a performance of water puppetry, a traditional art form that dates back to the 11th century.

This morning, we head east to Halong Bay, Vietnam’s most stunning natural marvel. We’ll spend the day sailing among the towering limestone islands that jut from the sea. Depending on the weather, you might have the chance to take a swim and savor a delicious seafood lunch on the boat. In the afternoon, we’ll make our way back to Hanoi, with a visit to a ceramic village along the way. The evening is yours to unwind or discover the city at your own pace.

Our day begins with a trip to the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum, followed by a visit to his modest ‘house on stilts,’ where he governed northern Vietnam until his passing in 1969. We'll also explore the presidential palace, the impressive Ho Chi Minh museum, and the One Pillar Pagoda, which dates back to the 11th century. Next, we’ll visit the Temple of Literature, Hanoi’s first university, established in 1070. The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy some last-minute shopping or further exploration on your own.

Have a free day to enjoy the capital.

This morning, we will take a flight to Vientiane, Laos. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and taken to your hotel. Despite recent growth, Vientiane still maintains a charmingly ‘old world’ atmosphere that sets it apart from other Asian cities. In the afternoon, we will explore the city's key landmarks, including Wat Sisaket. In the evening, relax and watch the sunset along the Mekong River.

Fly to Luang Prabang, considered Laos's most picturesque and captivating city. We’ll embark on a guided stroll through Luang Prabang’s streets, exploring the Dala Market and the stunning Wat Xieng Thong temple. We’ll also visit a village known for its weaving and paper-making. As the sun sets, we’ll make our way to the summit of Mount Phu Si, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the town and river.

This morning, explore the Royal Palace Museum, renowned for its impressive Lao art and furnishings. Following that, enjoy a boat ride along the Mekong River to the Pak Ou Caves. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to visit a nearby riverside village and taste some traditional Lao-Lao (rice wine).

Today, start early to witness one of Asia’s remarkable scenes: the procession of hundreds of Buddhist monks in their robes gathering morning alms. Later, head to the stunning Kuang Si Falls, with a stop en route at a Hmong village to gain insights into one of Laos’s major ethnic groups.

Today, you will be taken to the airport for your connecting flight.