HO CHI MINH CITY TO SINGAPORE (44 days) South East Asia Highlights
HO CHI MINH CITY TO SINGAPORE (44 days) South East Asia Highlights
HO CHI MINH CITY TO SINGAPORE (44 days) South East Asia Highlights
44 Days Starting in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and ending in Singapore
Visiting: Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam
Tour operator:
Tour code:
482
Specialist Group:
Singles Solo
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 10
Age range:
18-80
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a 44-day adventure from Ho Chi Minh City to Singapore, exploring the highlights of Southeast Asia. Discover the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City, visit the floating markets on the Mekong Delta, and delve into the history of Phnom Penh with its museums, temples, and palaces. Enjoy a picturesque boat journey from Battambang to Siem Reap and a guided tour of the spectacular Angkor Wat. Relax on the tropical beaches of Ko Samui or Ko Pha-ngan, hike through Gunung Leuser National Park in search of orangutans, and explore the colonial charm of Georgetown. Conclude your journey in Singapore, experiencing its modern skyline and cultural richness.
Highlights
Itinerary
Our South East Asia adventure begins in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) also known as Saigon. This city pulsates 24/7, as countless motorbikes swarm through its crowded streets with plenty to keep us occupied for a couple of days. We will visit the War Remnants Museum and you will also have time to visit Reunification Palace, or take a day trip to the nearby Cu Chi Tunnels, where the Vietcong dug out an underground network of supply lines during the war. Also, not far from HCMC you can visit the Cao Dai Temple, a unique religious sect that fuses many different elements with colourful and memorable services that visitors are welcome to observe. There are also day trips available to the Mekong Delta, to see where this mighty river finally ends its long journey into the sea. Fortunately for us, this is not the end of our Asian adventure!
DAY 4-8: HO CHI MINH CITY TO BATTAMBANG
HCMC is often a tiring and relentless experience with so much to do and its unremitting pace, so it’s a good thing that next up we have the more laid-back feel of Cambodia. A country with a tragic past, as the horrors of the Khmer Rouge are still within living memory, most visitors are amazed and inspired at the positivism and endeavour of the people who live in this stunning country, which is also home to one of the greatest ancient wonders to be found anywhere in the world: Angkor Wat.
First off though, we spend three nights in Phnom Penh, a city on the rise. Along with the splendour of Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, there are more sombre reminders of Pol Pot’s brutal regime at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former high school that was turned into a prison that has now been preserved and now serves as a chilling monument to a dark period, and also a respectful memorial to those who lost their lives. On the edge of town it is also possible to visit the Killing Fields, a similarly harrowing but valuable experience.
But this is in the past, and the local people in Phnom Penh have put it all behind them and live life at a frantic pace. With neon signs mixed in with many tastefully restored French Colonial buildings, it’s a great city to just wander around and enjoy fine cuisine and buzzing nightlife.
From Phnom Penh we stop for a couple of nights in Battambang, a city on the bank of the Sangkae River. This city has some more great temples and Buddhist shrines to explore, and the infamous ‘Bamboo Railway’, a truly unique and hair-raising experience!
DAY 9-12: BATTAMBANG TO SIEM REAP
We leave Battambang by boat, cruising along the Tonle Sap lake upriver to Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor Wat. This iconic abandoned temple, which adorns the national flag of Cambodia, is said to be the world’s largest religious monument. But there is far more to the whole site, known collectively as the Temples of Angkor, and away from the most famous site there are countless ruins to explore, many of which have been slowly reclaimed by the surrounding jungle and it doesn’t take too much effort to find yourself completely away from the crowds. We include entry for one day to the whole site, which can be explored either by tuk-tuk with a hired driver/guide for the day, or by yourself on bicycle, as it is only a short distance from Siem Reap itself.
The fact that Angkor Wat is so nearby gives Siem Reap the feel of a busy tourist town. This has obvious pitfalls, but also means it is a great place to enjoy a night out and bump into travellers from all over the world going in each and every direction.
DAY 13-18: SIEM REAP TO SURIT THANI
A full day’s drive and border crossing brings us to Bangkok, the vast and steamy capital of Thailand, known as the ‘Land of a Thousand Smiles’. Bangkok has plenty to keep us occupied, from glitzy shopping malls full of western brands to ancient palaces and monuments to the revered royal family. We include entry into the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. We spend three nights here so there is time explore the many canals on a Khlong Tour, visit one of the weekend Floating Markets, or take a stroll down the world famous Khao San Road, the start and end point to many travellers’ journeys through South East Asia.You also have the option to visit the small town of Kanchanaburi, which is known for the Bridge on the River Kwai. Built by Allied prisoners of war during the Second World War the bridge was immortalised in the film of the same name. It is possible to view and cross the bridge, and the nearby Thailand-Burma Railway Centre and the war cemeteries are also well worth visiting.After our time in Bangkok we head to Surit Thani, from where we begin our beach week on one of Thailand’s famous tropical islands!
DAY 19-24: SURIT THANI TO BEACH WEEK
From Surit Thani we board one of the many ferries to take the short trip across to either Ko Pha-ngan or Ko Samui. These islands are famous, or perhaps infamous, for their Full Moon Parties and lively backpacker scene, but they are also home to some world-class scuba diving, quiet and idyllic white beaches with warm, inviting turquoise waters and it is easy to escape the crowds for some serious downtime!
The Thailand beach week is not included in the trip price, and you are free to make your own arrangements for your accommodation for this time, choosing where you’d like to stay and what you want to do! Return boats to and from the islands are included.
DAY 25-27: BEACH WEEK TO PENANG
After some time out we all meet up again for the return trip to Surit Thani with an overnight stop in Hat Yai before entering Malaysia. This former British colony has an exotic blend of Malay, Indian, Chinese and European influences, which are reflected in the people, architecture and, perhaps most of all, its food! Our first stop is Penang, where we spend a couple of nights and will have free time to explore.
DAY 28-31: PENANG TO PULAU SAMOSIR
Leaving Malaysia we take a short flight to Medan, just across the Strait of Melacca on Sumatra, in Indonesia where you can explore the Grand Mosque or palace, or just sit back and soak in the city’s coruscating atmosphere (flights are not included and can be booked during the trip).
It is Sumatra’s lush jungles, one of the richest ecosystems in the world, steaming and at times rumbling volcanoes and blue crater lakes which make this part of the world fascinating and so different from everything else experienced on the expedition to date.
As we head into the interior of the world’s sixth largest island our destination is Lake Danau Toba, home of the Batak people. The lake covers an area of 1707 sq km and we head for the island in the middle of the lake called Pulau Samosir which is almost the same size as Singapore. The island offers many different options but the best way to experience it is to head off on a bike or motorbikes and explore the countryside, from swimming to trekking, to trying your hand at Indonesian cooking in one of the culinary schools and just enjoying the stunning scenery. The cool air, highland setting, with steep, pine-covered slopes, descending into the lake's deep blue water is great place to kick back and relax. The island's unique and fascinating Batak heritage, is evident in the clusters of sopo (tribal houses) with roofs that curve upwards, like buffalo horns, white-washed churches that dot the landscape, and ancient stones and monuments
For a bit of local flavour, visit a toddy shop and try a glass of 'tuak' (palm wine). The Batak people are known throughout Indonesia for their love of singing and playing music, and tuak is just the thing to get you fired up to join the singalong!
DAY 32-33: PULAU SAMOSIR TO BUKIT LAWANG
The wildlife in all this area is abundant but our next destination’s big attraction is the orangutan feeding station at Bukit Lawang. Deep in the Sumatran jungle, these feeding stations have been created to support the indigenous orangutans as much of the normal habitat has been removed for agriculture or palm oil plantations. By creating these feeding stations, the orangutans do not have to compete with the locals by raiding their fields. We visit the feeding station and there is also the opportunity to trek through the jungle and hope to spot these incredible creatures in their natural environment.
The Gunung Leuser National Park and surrounding area has plenty else to offer, from exploring the ‘bat cave’, day or overnight guided hikes in the national park on the search for wild orangutans and the many other primates and larger mammals in the park. The chance to float back down to the starting point on an inner tube is a great way to finish your trek!
DAY 34-42: BUKIT LAWANG TO MELAKA
Returning from Indonesia to Malaysia, we have time to explore the town of Georgetown on the island of Penang. Formerly the Malayan base for the historic East India Company, it’s a great spot to take a wander amongst the crumbling colonial buildings and check out the impressive street art. The other great thing is the food: Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand all had their fantastic cuisine to offer, and Malaysia offers another different twist with influences from India strongly evident in Georgetown.
Departing Penang we cross the Malaysian peninsula to another tropical paradise, this time the famous island of Pulau Perhenthian; one of Malaysia’s showpiece islands, it is refreshingly undeveloped and is a prime spot for snorkelling or diving. Imagine going for a snorkel just off the shore and seeing turtles and sharks! Getting to the islands is also an exciting speed boat road across the bay.
After three nights of relaxed tropical bliss, we drag ourselves off the beach and it’s time to head to the big city again as we reach Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia and one of South East Asia’s most important economic centres. This sprawling city is typical of Malaysia, with a variety of neighbourhoods and districts, each representing the many cultures that have given Malaysia its distinctive character while also giving a nod to the direction of this emerging country. There is the colonial area around Merdeka Square, the chaos of Little India or Chinatown with its famous Jalan Petaling, where you can barter for all kinds of varied goods and trinkets, or the modern and dynamic area around the Golden Triangle, home to the iconic Petronas Towers (best viewed at night when they are lit up). For the best views of the city, KL Tower is only a short walk away.
After two nights in Kuala Lumpur we continue south to Melaka, our penultimate stop on the trip. This city’s history as a strategic trading post lends it a unique blend of Malay, Portuguese, Dutch and British flavours and influences. Take a boat trip on the Malacca River, explore the museums, temples and churches, climb the hill to St John’s Fort or take a trip out to the Melaka Zoo, considered to be the best in all of Malaysia.
DAY 43-44: SINGAPORE
And so, in a flash, you will be arriving into Singapore, our final stop on this epic journey. The city has plenty to offer, from a world-class zoo, to endless shopping malls, and a national passion for food that is hard to match! Known as the ‘Lion City’ it is one of Asia's most affluent and vibrant, and a great place to spend a couple of days exploring. It’s also a great place to celebrate the end of our epic journey across Asia, and so in the spirit of overlanding this epic route we head to the Long Bar at the Raffles Hotel and raise a toast with a Singapore Sling and relive all the experiences that you have shared since your trip began.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation in simple hostels/hotels (except 'Beach Week' in Thailand).
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War Remnants Museum, Ho Chi Minh City
Entrance fee to the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City.
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Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, Phnom Penh
Entrance fee and guided tour of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh.
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Killing Fields, Phnom Penh
Entrance fee and guided tour of the Killing Fields in Phnom Penh.
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Angkor Wat, Siem Reap
Entrance fee and guided tour of Angkor Wat in Siem Reap (1 Day Pass).
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Boat trip from Battambang to Siem Reap
Boat trip from Battambang to Siem Reap including Tonle Sap Lake.
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Wat Phra Kaew & Grand Palace, Bangkok
Entrance fee to Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace in Bangkok.
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Jungle trek in Sumatra
Jungle trek including visit to orangutan feeding station and inner tube river trip in Sumatra.
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Perhentian Islands
Entrance fee and speed boat trip to the Perhentian Islands.
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Singapore Sling at Raffles, Singapore
A Singapore Sling at Raffles in Singapore.
What's Not Included
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Visas
Visas are not included.
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Optional Excursions
Optional excursions as listed in the Pre-Departure Information are not included.
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Penang - Medan Return Flights
Penang - Medan return flights are not included.
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Airport Taxes & Transfers
Airport taxes and transfers are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included.
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Meals
Meals covering approximately 80% of the trip are not included.
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International Flights
International flights are not included.
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Drinks
Drinks are not included.
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Tips
Tips are not included.
Mode of Transport
All local transport is included, excluding Penang - Medan return flights. The tour also features a boat trip from Battambang to Siem Reap and a speed boat trip to the Perhentian Islands.
Accommodation
Accommodation includes simple hostels and hotels, except during the 'Beach Week' in Thailand where you are free to make your own arrangements.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
Accommodation is provided in simple hostels and hotels, except during the 'Beach Week' in Thailand where you are free to make your own arrangements.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Approximately 20% of meals are included in the tour package. The remaining 80% of meals are not included.
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What kind of transport is included in the tour?
All local transport is included, except for the Penang to Medan return flights.
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Are there any entrance fees included in the tour?
Yes, entrance fees for several attractions are included, such as the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields in Phnom Penh, Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Wat Phra Kaew and Grand Palace in Bangkok, and the Perhentian Islands.
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Is there a tour guide provided during the trip?
Yes, the services of an Oasis Tour Leader are included throughout the trip.
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What activities are included in the tour?
Included activities are a boat trip from Battambang to Siem Reap, a jungle trek in Sumatra including a visit to an orangutan feeding station and an inner tube river trip, and a Singapore Sling at Raffles in Singapore.
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What is not included in the tour package?
The tour package does not include visas, optional excursions, Penang to Medan return flights, airport taxes and transfers, travel insurance, international flights, drinks, and tips.
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What can I expect during the 'Beach Week' in Thailand?
During the 'Beach Week' in Thailand, you can relax on the tropical beaches of Ko Pha-ngan or Ko Samui. This week is not included in the trip price, and you are free to make your own arrangements for accommodation and activities.
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What are some of the key highlights of the tour?
Key highlights include visiting the floating markets on the Mekong Delta, exploring the vibrant city of Phnom Penh, a picturesque boat journey from Battambang to Siem Reap, a guided tour around Angkor Wat, hiking through Gunung Leuser National Park in search of orangutans, and exploring Malaysia's modern capital, Kuala Lumpur.
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What kind of experiences can I expect in Singapore at the end of the tour?
In Singapore, you can explore a world-class zoo, endless shopping malls, and enjoy the city's vibrant food scene. The tour concludes with a visit to the Long Bar at the Raffles Hotel for a Singapore Sling.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes, if you are travelling solo. On our Overland Adventures and Ultimate Expeditions, we will pair you up with a tent buddy of the same sex when we camp and the same goes for twin & shared rooms in hostels, so there is no need to go it alone! If you specifically would like to request your own single room whilst on the trip, this may be requested subject to availability and additional fee.
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How many people do you take on your Trips?
On most of our Overland Adventures and Ultimate Expeditions our vehicles can carry a maximum of 24 travellers, the average however is around 16-20 on any one trip. Our Small Group Adventures have a maximum of 18 people per Tour Leader, although again the average is around 10-14 people.
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Thursday - Friday
Aug 21, 2025 - Oct 03, 2025Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Oasis Overland requires a minimum deposit of 400 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of oasis overland charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 65% of booking price.
At 39 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.