Premium Cambodia & Vietnam in Depth

20 Days
From CAD 7,420
Best Rate
Guarantee
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating


(10 reviews)

Experience Overview

Discover the incredible diversity, delectable cuisines, dramatic histories and natural beauty of Cambodia and Vietnam on a 20-day Premium adventure. Delve into the confronting Khmer legacy in Phnom Penh, view Vietnam's colourful history on the busy streets of Ho Chi Minh City and explore the grand architecture of Hanoi. This trip offers places of breathtaking beauty, from the backwaters of the Mekong Delta, to the ancient temples of Angkor and the natural limestone wonder of Halong Bay. Add to that a mix of friendly locals and age-old traditions for the ultimate South East Asian experience.

Highlights

  • Enjoy two marvellous Feature Stays – an overnight cruise in Halong Bay on a traditional junk-style boat and a 3-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

Product CodeProduct Code: 2705

Tour TypeTour Type: Small Group

AccommodationAccommodation: Unknown

TransportTransport: Boat,Plane,Private Minibus

Guide LanguageGuide Language: English

Supplier CodeSupplier Code: TKPJC

StartStarts: Phnom Penh, Cambodia

FinishFinishes: Hanoi, Cambodia

DurationDuration: 20 days

DeparturesDepartures: Guaranteed

Physical RatingPhysical rating: Light

Includes

Meals: Breakfasts (18), Lunch (9), Dinner (7)
Accommodation: Hotel (18 nights),Overnight boat (1 night)

Price

Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 7420 (CAD 371 /day)

Itinerary

1
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)

2
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)

3
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, 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. 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

4
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 Sala Bai
  • Siem Reap - Angkor Wat Archaeologist Guide

Optional Activities:

  • Siem Reap - Phare Circus Ticket (18 USD)

5
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)

6
Day 6: Ho Chi Minh City

Xin chao! Welcome to Vietnam. When you arrive in Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. You’ll then have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, why not get out and explore the city at your own pace. After your meeting, head out for dinner with your small group and local leader. When you arrive at the restaurant you’ll step straight into 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

Accommodation:

  • Paragon Saigon Hotel or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

7
Day 7: Mekong Delta

After breakfast, drive south towards the Mekong Delta via the region of Ben Tre. Here, you’ll board a private boat and cruise the delta, stopping off at some coconut gardens to visit a local home where you’ll 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 plays into local life. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant then return to Ho Chi Minh City for a free evening.

Included Activities:

  • Mekong Delta - Boat cruise with visits to local producers

Accommodation:

  • Paragon Saigon Hotel or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

8
Day 8: Ho Chi Minh City

Today, you’ll see Ho Chi Minh City through the eyes of a local during a bus and walking tour with your leader. Visit the famous Reunification Palace and hear the story of the end of the war, take a sobering trip to the War Remnants Museum and stop by the beautiful Romanesque Notre Dame Cathedral. Stroll the city’s streets and its many French buildings along the way, including the main post office and the gorgeous Ho Chi Minh City Hall, modelled on Paris’s Hotel de Ville. The rest of the evening is yours – be sure to ask your leader for recommendations on some great local spots for dinner.

Included Activities:

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

Optional Activities:

  • Ho Chi Minh City - A O show (1050000 VND)

Accommodation:

  • Paragon Saigon Hotel or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

9
Day 9: Hoi An

This morning after breakfast, head on a half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels – an extensive underground network (some 200 kilometres) of tunnels dug initially by the Viet Minh and later expanded by the Viet Cong. They contained hospitals, dwellings and schools and were used extensively for refuge and storage, as well as being a military base. As you explore this extraordinary labyrinth your leader will explain more about its history and the 1968 Tet Offensive. A section of the tunnels has been widened to allow visitors to get a feel for what the underground life must have been like. Please note that these tunnels will be hot and can get claustrophobic, so there is an option if you’d like to view from above ground. Later this afternoon, fly to Hoi An.

Included Activities:

  • Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels

Accommodation:

  • Mulberry Collection Silk Eco Hotel or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

10
Day 10: Hoi An

Join your leader on a walking tour this morning to discover the Hoi An’s stunning architecture and unique mix of influences. With its charming low tiled houses and tranquil feel, this is a delightful town to walk around. Start with a visit to an opulently decorated historic house that was once home to a prominent trader. 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 uncovered on your walk. Afterwards, sit down to a delicious lunch with the group. This afternoon you are free to make the most of Hoi An and its surrounding areas. Your leader will be able to help with suggestions for extra activities in Hoi An and the nearby countryside.

Included Activities:

  • Hoi An - Old Town walking tour

Optional Activities:

  • Hoi An - Food Adventure Urban Adventure (44 USD)

Accommodation:

  • Mulberry Collection Silk Eco Hotel or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

11
Day 11: Hoi An

A significant port of the Champa Kingdom for centuries, many Cham descendants are still living in Hoi An today. This morning your leader will guide you around My Son Cham, a collection of temples constructed by the Kings of Champa and dating back to the 4th century. Learn about the ancient architecture of this UNESCO 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 more exploration, or to relax by the pool at your hotel.

Included Activities:

  • Hoi An - My Son Tour

Accommodation:

  • Mulberry Collection Silk Eco Hotel or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

12
Day 12: Hue

Depart Hoi An today bound for Hue, the former imperial capital and hub of Vietnam's historic past. En route, 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 frenetic streets and peaceful beauty. In the afternoon you will 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 remain a testament to its proud history. Here your leader will provide some insight into the horrific damage endured during the war.

Included Activities:

  • Hue - Imperial City half day guided tour

Accommodation:

  • Emm Hotel Hue or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

13
Day 13: Hue

Loosen your belt and ready your appetite as today you will be diving into Hue’s fabulous culinary scene. First up, head to a street food eatery for a seriously tasty breakfast – Bun Bo Hue. This spicy noodle soup is usually made with beef and pig knuckles and is an absolute must-try while in Hue. Then, meet with a local chef and explore a bustling local market where you will taste and smell all the wonderful herbs and ingredients that bring local dishes to life, while learning more about the culture of Vietnamese cuisine along the way. Stop for lunch and enjoy some of Hue’s most celebrated dishes. Continue to the local chef’s delightful home where you will learn how to cook up some simple and delicious dishes using the fresh ingredients you picked up at the market. Take your new knowledge and local recipes back home with you so you can recreate meals that will take you straight back to Vietnam. Later in the afternoon, take a visit to the Thien Mu Pagoda, the unofficial symbol of Hue. The Pagoda is an active Buddhist monastery that dates back to 1601. You will 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:

  • Emm Hotel Hue or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

14
Day 14: Hanoi

Fly from Hue to Hanoi today. Your departure will mostly likely be in the morning but can vary a little depending on flight schedules. Settle in on arrival, then your leader will guide you through the ancient 36 Streets to discover a varied selection of shop-lined alleys that sell everything from souvenirs to exquisite silk clothing, jewellery and embroidered tablecloths. In the afternoon, you will be treated to a traditional Hat Xam performance – this is truly an experience like no other. Hat Xam is an artform of Northern Vietnam dating back to the Tran Dynasty. Originally, this was performed by blind performers, and was enjoyed by local working-class audiences, right up until the late 1950s, when a wave of communism deemed all art forms to be corrupting influences. Today, this style of performance occurs rarely, but you and your group will be taken to a private club house for an exclusive performance; one of the few places where such artists still perform acoustically. The performance includes some story telling aspects and possibly interaction with guests, so be ready to get involved!

Included Activities:

  • Hanoi - Hat Xam performance
  • Hanoi - Old Quarter Tour

Accommodation:

  • Le Jardin Hotel Haute Couture Hanoi or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

15
Day 15: Mai Chau

Depart Hanoi this morning and take a private coach transfer to Mai Chau. The peaceful town is situated in a stunningly beautiful valley. Surrounded by green mountains, it’s famed for its breathtaking scenery and friendly hilltribe peoples. Admire the valley 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 who are native to this region of Northern Vietnam at the Muong Museum. In the afternoon, check into your accommodation and enjoy free time to unwind at the Onsen retreat, before coming back together for a BBQ dinner in the hotel garden.

Included Activities:

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

Accommodation:

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

16
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)

17
Day 17: Hanoi

This morning you will return to Hanoi where you will enjoy a guided half-day tour of Hanoi with your leader, gaining insights to the city’s history during visits to the Temple of Literature, One Pillar Pagoda and the former residence of Vietnam’s most famous revolutionary, Ho Chi Minh. Enjoy a delicious lunch at KOTO restaurant – an Intrepid Foundation supported program that teaches disadvantaged youth hospitality skills. Enjoy a free evening for further explorations. Walking is a great way to explore the city and its many lakes and parks. You'll see that this enchanting 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:

  • Le Jardin Hotel Haute Couture Hanoi or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

18
Day 18: Halong Bay

Today you will drive to Halong Bay – this World Heritage listed wonder is undoubtedly one of the world’s most spectacular sights. There’s no better way to appreciate the bay’s beauty than on board a junk-style boat – your Feature Stay accommodation for the evening. Carefully designed with traditional touches and modern amenities, you can sit back in complete comfort as you weave through stunning limestone islands, karsts and caves. Stop by Surprise Cave to discover its interesting rock formations with you leader, then retire to the boat for a marvellous seafood lunch. During the warmer months your leader will discuss the option for swimming from Ti Top Island. There is also the option for kayaking to get up close to the towering limestone karsts. This evening’s dinner is sure to be a standout – dine on the deck of the boat by candlelight and watch the sun go down over the magnificent landscape.

Included Activities:

  • Halong Bay - Overnight Boat Cruise

Optional Activities:

  • Halong Bay - Kayaking Tour (250000 VND)

Accommodation:

  • Secret Halong Cruise (Feature Stay) or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

19
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:

  • Le Jardin Hotel Haute Couture Hanoi or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

20
Day 20: Hanoi

Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you would like to stay on in Hanoi, we’ll be happy to organise some additional accommodation for you ahead of time (subject to availability).

Optional Activities:

  • Hanoi - Street Food Experience Urban Adventure (40 USD)

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Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel

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

Reviews

 

Sheri   -  Traveled, February 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!!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 02/29/2024

 

Rupert   -  Traveled, February 2024

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

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 02/15/2024

 

John   -  Traveled, February 2024

As a solo traveller I went on the premier Cambodia and Vietnam trip with Intrepid and I was not disappointed. I joined a group of seven other travellers from different backgrounds, countries and ages. We had a dedicated team leader throughout the trip of 20 days. Every day was different and I found the trip very interesting and at a level where I was always comfortable. Everything was communicated in a clear manner and our team leader, Thao, was fantastic in making things simple. The whole experience was fantastic and I would recommend this trip.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/05/2024

 

David   -  Traveled, January 2024

Great destinations, activities and food. Well organized. Tour leaders were exceptional; their attention and perspectives upgraded an itinerary into a fabulous experience. Highly recommended!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 02/11/2024

 

Claire   -  Traveled, September 2023

This review is written about the Vietnam Tour with Intrepid. From the start, the introduction plus the usefulI Intrepid Bag was a great start. Everyone seemed to mix well, arrive on time and be mindful of one another. Our Tour Leader had a great sense of humour, was clear in his communication and very approachable which made for a relaxing trip. The history of this country is brutal and sad and has come a long way in rebuilding from the destruction of war both on the minds, loss of life and on the continuation of the effects of Agent Orange on the present and future generations. The country is beautiful, the gardens, greenery, flowers, smiling people, cuisine, coffee, art work, mode of transportation all make for a wonderful experience. Let Intrepid take the hard work of planning out an Itinerary, meet new and interesting people and travel from the bottom to the top of Vietnam

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/25/2023

 

Iain   -  Traveled, May 2023

This is a really great trip. There is so much to see and do, its well balanced with time to do what you want, be that see more or dip in the pool. It has been a wonderful trip for me.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/31/2023

 

Emily   -  Traveled, April 2023

Intrepid are amazing They take all the stress out of organising a trip abroad. I am just leaving Cambodian after an amazing trip with an excellent guide Daro - loved the group, the guide, the Restauarant’s, hotels, the sites and the amazing people of Cambodia. A people that have overcome such recent tragedy and are such a warm and friendly country. Thank you all

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 04/13/2024

 

Claire   -  Traveled, March 2023

Highly recommend Intrepid Premium tours . First time with them and very impressed with the smooth operations plus excellent guides/ food/variety of tours . Congrats to all up front and back ground staff. Plus quick response if I ever needed support through chat line . Congratulations

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 04/15/2023

 

Emily   -  Traveled, February 2024

An amazing tour that gives you a great understanding of the history and culture while seeing some amazing places.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 03/04/2023

 

Laura   -  Traveled, November 2022

Intrepid Premium Travel is definitely the way to go for people who are adventurous travelers but whose backpacking days are behind them. Nice hotels, very small groups, lots of inclusions and a good value for the money. Already planning my next one!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 12/13/2022

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