11 Nights Classic Vietnam and Cambodia

Ho Chi Minh | 

Vietnam

Explore the cultural and historical treasures of Southern Vietnam and Cambodia on an 11-night journey, including a 7-night Mekong River cruise and immersive land excursions.

Overview

This 11-night adventure offers an in-depth exploration of Southern Vietnam and Cambodia, seamlessly blending river cruising with enriching land experiences. The journey commences in Saigon, where you’ll immerse yourself in the city’s dynamic atmosphere and historical landmarks. A highlight is the visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, providing insight into Vietnam’s wartime history. Following the city tour, embark on a 7-night cruise along the Mekong River aboard a Pandaw vessel, sailing from Saigon to Siem Reap. As you traverse the Mekong Delta, witness the intricate waterways, lush landscapes, and daily life along the riverbanks. Excursions include sampan rides through mangroves, visits to artisanal villages, and explorations of bustling markets. Crossing into Cambodia, the cruise offers opportunities to visit remote communities and experience traditional performances. The expedition culminates with a stay in Siem Reap, home to the majestic temples of Angkor. Guided tours of Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple, and Ta Prohm provide a deep dive into the region’s rich history and architectural marvels. Throughout the journey, accommodations are in carefully selected hotels, ensuring comfort and authenticity. This comprehensive tour encapsulates the essence of Vietnam and Cambodia, offering travelers a blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and scenic beauty.​

Inclusions
  • Accommodation in selected hotels and Pandaw river cruise staterooms
  • All onboard meals and specified meals during land tours
  • Guided excursions with English-speaking guides
  • Entrance fees to all included sites
  • Transfers between airports, hotels, and the ship
  • Local entertainment and cultural performances
  • Complimentary local beverages on the cruise
  • Child-friendly amenities and activities available
Highlights
  • Exploring Saigon’s historical sites, including the Reunification Hall and Notre Dame Cathedral​
  • Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels for a glimpse into Vietnam’s wartime history​
  • Cruising the Mekong River, witnessing daily life in the delta​
  • Sampan excursions through Ben Tre’s mangroves and fruit orchards​
  • Visiting floating fish farms and experiencing local performances​
  • Touring the temples of Angkor, including Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm​
  • Experiencing a traditional Cambodian circus performance in Siem Reap​
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Saigon

Upon touching down in Saigon, you’re immediately enveloped by the city’s vibrant energy. Your guide awaits to whisk you to your hotel, offering a glimpse of the bustling streets en route. After settling in, the evening is yours. A leisurely stroll along Nguyen Hue walking street comes highly recommended. Here, local artists and performers bring the promenade to life, providing an authentic taste of Vietnamese culture. The aroma of street food fills the air, and the colonial architecture stands as a testament to the city’s rich history. It’s the perfect introduction to Saigon’s unique blend of old and new.​

Day 2 Saigon City Tour and Cu Chi Tunnels

The day begins with a journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels, located about 65 kilometres from the city. This intricate underground network, built by Viet Cong guerillas, offers profound insights into Vietnam’s wartime history. Crawling through the narrow passages, you can’t help but marvel at the resilience and ingenuity of those who lived there. Returning to Saigon, a local restaurant serves up traditional dishes, recharging you for the afternoon’s explorations. The city’s landmarks await: the Reunification Hall stands as a symbol of Vietnam’s reunification; Notre Dame Cathedral and the General Post Office showcase French colonial architecture; and the War Remnants Museum provides a poignant look into the past. A visit to Ben Thanh Market concludes the day, where the vibrant stalls offer everything from local handicrafts to aromatic spices.​
Pandaw

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3 From Saigon to the Delta

After breakfast, it’s time to embark on the next leg of the journey. Transferring to the Pandaw vessel, you’re greeted by a crew ready to make your voyage unforgettable. As the ship sets sail, the towering skyscrapers of Saigon gradually give way to the serene landscapes of the Mekong Delta. Lunch is served onboard, introducing you to the culinary delights that await. The afternoon offers a chance to relax on the sundeck, soaking in the sights and sounds of river life. Local entertainment in the evening provides a cultural immersion, setting the tone for the adventures ahead. The ship anchors on the Vam Co River for the night, the gentle lapping of water ensuring a restful sleep.​

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 Ben Tre and the Fertile Waterways

The morning light reveals the bustling activity along the Cho Gao Canal, a vital waterway constructed in 1876 by the French. Observing the daily life along its banks offers a fascinating insight into the region’s culture. Arriving in Ben Tre, traditional sampans await to navigate the intricate network of mangroves and bamboo forests. The journey leads to lush fruit orchards, where the freshness of the produce is unparalleled. This region, responsible for half of Vietnam’s rice production, also boasts a rich artisanal heritage. Visiting a local village, you witness craftsmen and women at work, their skills passed down through generations. Back aboard, the cruise ventures deeper into the delta, with the landscapes becoming increasingly picturesque.​

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 Chau Doc and Into Cambodia

Morning brings a short drive to Sam Mountain, home to the Phuoc Dien Tu (Hang Pagoda). The ascent, though challenging, rewards with panoramic views across the Mekong—a sight that etches itself into memory. For those who prefer, exploring the local market offers its own charms, with vibrant stalls and friendly vendors. A sampan ride follows, taking you to floating fish farms, showcasing the innovative aquaculture practices of the region. A private lion dance performance in a local village adds a festive touch to the day. As the sun sets, the ship approaches the Vietnam-Cambodia border, anchoring to undergo immigration formalities, a gentle reminder of the journey’s international nature.​

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 Phnom Penh

The Cambodian capital beckons with its blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy. A morning cyclo ride offers an intimate exploration of the city, visiting the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, where Khmer artistry shines in every corner. The National Museum’s collection of Angkorian statuary provides a deeper understanding of the country’s rich heritage. The afternoon takes a somber turn with visits to the Killing Fields and Genocide Museum, confronting the tragic history of the Khmer Rouge regime. Docked overnight in Phnom Penh’s lively port, the city’s bars, restaurants, and nightlife are within easy reach, inviting you to experience its contemporary culture.​

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 Life on the Tonle Sap River

Departing Phnom Penh, the ship sails up the winding channels of the Tonle Sap River to Kampong Tralach. Here, an ox-cart ride offers a rustic journey through riverside villages, markets, and temples, providing a snapshot of rural Cambodian life. The evening is marked by cocktails around a fire pit in a small fishing village. The villagers, with their warm hospitality, share tales and traditional dances, making for an evening rich in cultural exchange.​
Pandaw

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 Oudong Meditations and Pak Russei Silk

A morning coach trip leads to Oudong, the ancient capital of Cambodia. The Vipassana Dhura Meditation Centre, with its impressive Khmer architecture, offers a serene environment to experience a short meditation session, providing a moment of introspection amidst the journey. Rejoining the ship at Prek Kdam, lunch is served as the vessel sails onto the Mekong proper. The afternoon includes a visit to Pak Russei, a remote village known for its silk weaving and handmade noodle production. A private performance of Bokator, an ancient martial art, showcases the country’s rich cultural traditions.​
Pandaw

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9 Peam Chi Korng Pottery Village

As dawn breaks over the Mekong, our ship glides toward Peam Chi Korng, a village celebrated for its age-old pottery traditions. A short tuk-tuk ride brings us to the heart of this community, where artisans have been molding clay into functional art for generations. Observing their skilled hands at work offers a profound appreciation for Cambodian craftsmanship. The village’s vibrant morning market is a sensory delight, with stalls brimming with fresh produce and aromatic spices. Engaging with the friendly vendors provides authentic insights into daily life. In the afternoon, we sail to Steung Trang, where the crew prepares a sumptuous farewell dinner. The evening is enriched with traditional Cambodian music and dance, ensuring our journey concludes on a memorable note.​

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10 Arrival in Siem Reap – Angkor Wat

Following an early breakfast, we disembark and embark on a coach journey to Siem Reap, arriving by mid-afternoon. After settling into the FCC Angkor by Avani hotel, anticipation builds as we approach the iconic Angkor Wat. This sprawling temple complex, with its intricate carvings and towering spires, stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Khmer Empire. Exploring its vast corridors during sunset, as golden hues bathe the ancient stones, is an experience that resonates deeply. The evening culminates with a performance by Phare, the Cambodian Circus, where young artists mesmerize with a fusion of acrobatics, theatre, and music, narrating tales of Cambodian life and resilience.​

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 11 Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm

The day’s adventure begins at Angkor Thom, the last great capital of the Khmer Empire. Entering through its monumental gates, we’re greeted by the enigmatic smiles of the Bayon Temple’s stone faces, each exuding a serene mystique. The Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King showcase intricate bas-reliefs that chronicle historical events and mythological tales. Post-lunch, we venture to Ta Prohm, often dubbed the ‘Tomb Raider Temple.’ Here, nature reclaims man-made structures, with towering trees and sprawling roots enveloping the temple ruins, creating an ethereal atmosphere that transports you back in time. The interplay of light filtering through the dense canopy adds to the site’s haunting beauty, making it a photographer’s paradise.​

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 12 Departure from Siem Reap

As our journey draws to a close, we savor a leisurely breakfast at the hotel. Depending on flight schedules, there’s an opportunity for some last-minute exploration or souvenir shopping in Siem Reap’s bustling markets. Our guide ensures a seamless transfer to the airport, assisting with any final arrangements. Reflecting on the diverse experiences—from the dynamic streets of Saigon and the tranquil waters of the Mekong to the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor—we depart with a profound appreciation for the rich tapestry of cultures and histories that Vietnam and Cambodia offer.​

Meals: Breakfast

Terms & Conditions

Price & Availability
All bookings are subject to availability at the time of your request. Once we receive your booking enquiry, we’ll confirm availability within 24 hours.
Prices are quoted in Australian Dollars (AUD). If your package includes services priced in other currencies, currency conversion will be processed at midnight (AEST) each day. Please be aware that due to the constantly changing nature of exchange rates and supplier pricing, all package prices are subject to change until full payment is received and booking is confirmed.

Self-Guided Packages – Terms & Conditions
Our Self-Guided Packages are designed for travellers who want the freedom to explore independently, without the hassle of planning every detail. Each package follows a tried-and-tested itinerary that includes a combination of pre-booked services, such as accommodation and transport, and optional group tours or private experiences. You’ll have the flexibility to discover each destination at your own pace, with the confidence of having essential logistics taken care of and access to local support if needed.

Accommodation Flexibility
We understand that every traveller has different needs, so our itineraries offer flexibility in accommodation. You can choose from a range of hotels, from 3-star options to luxury 5-star properties, in most locations. If your first-choice hotel is not available at the time of booking, we will offer you an alternative of similar standard, quality, and location.
Travellers are welcome to customise their accommodation preferences before confirming their booking. If you’re unsure about the best options for your travel style, our team is happy to recommend alternatives.

Booking On Request
All packages are offered on request basis. In most cases, a deposit may be required before we can secure accommodation and services.
Once we receive your deposit and booking enquiry, we aim to confirm your package within 24 hours (longer if weekends or public holidays apply).
If your preferred travel dates are not available, we’ll suggest the closest alternatives or offer a full refund of your deposit.

Dynamic Pricing
Many of our accommodation providers and local suppliers use dynamic pricing models, which means prices fluctuate depending on factors such as demand, travel seasons, and availability.
Our listed “from” prices represent the lowest available rates based on low season travel with full availability. When you request a quote for your preferred travel dates, we’ll provide an accurate, up-to-date price based on availability at the time of quoting.
Prices may vary between the time we provide a quote and when you confirm your booking. Should there be any price differences, we will notify you before final confirmation and payment.

Itinerary Order & Availability
The order of your itinerary, including accommodation, tours, and transport, may be adjusted to secure the best availability and ensure a smooth travel experience. While we strive to follow the proposed itinerary as closely as possible, changes may be necessary, particularly during peak travel periods or when bookings are made close to your departure date.
For bookings made well in advance and outside of peak seasons, itinerary changes are uncommon. Any adjustments will be communicated to you in advance and are made with the aim of maintaining or improving the overall experience.
The final itinerary—including the order of your activities and accommodations—will be confirmed after your booking is secured.

Payment Terms
• A deposit may be required to secure your booking.
• Full payment is due no later than 45 days prior to your scheduled arrival date.
• If additional deposits are required by certain hotels or service providers, we will advise you at the time of confirmation.
• Your booking is not confirmed until full payment is received.
• Payments can be made via direct deposit, credit card, or other approved methods (merchant fees may apply).

Changes & Cancellations
• Your deposit is non-refundable once your booking is confirmed.
• Changes to your booking are permitted up to 45 days prior to departure, subject to availability and supplier approval. Additional fees may apply depending on the nature of the change.
• Cancellations within 45 days of arrival will incur a 100% cancellation fee, unless otherwise stated in your booking confirmation.
• Any rail tickets and flight tickets included in your package are non-refundable once issued and confirmed. These are subject to airline and supplier policies, which may include strict cancellation and amendment terms.
• We recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking to protect against unforeseen changes or cancellations.

Additional Information
• Please review visa requirements, health advice, and local regulations for your chosen destination prior to travel.
• We recommend allowing extra time for processing visas or travel documentation, especially during busy travel seasons.
• Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all bookings to cover unexpected events, including illness, cancellations, or delays.

Price on Application
Trip Summary
● Duration:
11 Nights
● Starts: Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City)
● Ends: Siem Reap
● Trip Type: Luxury
● Accommodation: 3 or 4-Star Hotel & Cabin of Your Choice
● Transportation: Coach Transfers

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