Vietnam and Cambodia Uncovered
Vietnam and Cambodia Uncovered
Vietnam and Cambodia Uncovered
17 Days Starting in Hanoi, Vietnam and ending in Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Visiting: Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Hue, Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong River Delta, Siem Reap, Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh
Tour operator:
Tour code:
CTVPAM20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Vietnam and Cambodia with the "Vietnam and Cambodia Uncovered" tour. This immersive experience takes you from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene waters of Halong Bay, where you'll enjoy an overnight cruise on a traditional Vietnamese Junk boat. Explore the ancient town of Hoi An, the imperial city of Hue, and the vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, with its rich history and cultural landmarks. In Cambodia, marvel at the majestic temples of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, and delve into the poignant history of Phnom Penh. Along the way, enjoy unique cultural experiences, such as a traditional cooking class, a cyclo tour, and a visit to a local village. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and a focus on sustainable travel, this tour offers a deep dive into the heart of Southeast Asia.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Hanoi
Location: Hanoi
Accommodation: Silk Path Hotel
Accommodation Name: Silk Path Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
On arrival, we have airport transfers arranged for you at 11:00 and 15:00 to take you to your hotel.Relish the warm embrace of Vietnam and her welcoming people, who will touch you with their humility and entrepreneurial spirit throughout your journey across this intoxicating land. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant
Day 2: A Day To Discover Hanoi Dive Into Culture
Location: Hanoi
Accommodation Name: Silk Path Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning is dedicated to the revolutionary leader who fanned the flames of Vietnam’s independence. We begin our day with a visit to the final resting place of “Uncle Ho”, the imposing Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. A short walk from here, we’ll find Ho Chi Minh's house on stilts, where we’ll Dive Into Culture exploring the grounds surrounding the humble abode of Vietnam’s most famous son. We’ll continue to the Temple of Literature, the first university for the sons of Mandarins, to gain insights into Hanoian culture. This afternoon, we’ll take a cyclo tour, weaving through the lively Old Quarter past colourful shopfronts and street food vendors. Enjoy an evening at leisure or consider joining our Optional Experience to taste some delicious local flavours on a foodie tour.
Day 3: Set Sail For Halong Bay Stays With Stories
Location: Halong Bay
Accommodation Name: Orchid Cruise
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We leave the busy streets of Hanoi behind, bound for the serenity of Halong Bay where we’ll board a traditional-style Vietnamese Junk boat. The limestone karsts and tropical islets rising up from the emerald waters provide an ethereal backdrop for our leisurely cruise. Once welcomed aboard, enjoy lunch whilst cruising one of the New Seven Natural Wonders. Visit Trung Trang cave on Cat Ba Island, the cave is 300m long through the mountains, possessing a mysterious beauty due to the geological tectonics in million years along with many historical vestiges and stalactites. Followed, weather permitting, by a stop at the quiet Tra Bau beach in Lan Ha Bay with its smooth white sand. You may choose to relax or take a nice swim in the green, emerald waters. We return to our Junk boat for a cooking class with the chef and enjoy a mesmerising sunset on the top deck before dinner and a peaceful overnight stay in this UNESCO-listed natural wonder.
Day 4: Onwards To Danang And Hoi An
Location: Hoi An
Accommodation Name: Allegro Hoi An
Meals Included: Breakfast
It is a perfect time to refresh and indulge yourself in the peaceful beauty of the bay with a Tai Chi session. After breakfast discover the hidden charm of the Ao Ech area by kayak. There will be time to relax on the sundeck and take in the last views of the bays landscape, whilst cruising back to the Wharf before your drive to Hanoi Airport to catch your flight to Danang. On arrival, transfer to your hotel in Hoi An where you have the evening at leisure.
Day 5: Uncover Historic Hoi An Dive Into Culture
Location: Hoi An
Accommodation Name: Allegro Hoi An
Meals Included: Breakfast
Dive Into Culture this morning, embarking on a walking tour around the ancient town of Hoi An. Embrace its charm of yesteryear – the narrow lanes, colourful marketplaces and ancient temples providing insights into the Vietnam of old. See the old merchant houses and 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, before visiting Thanh Dong Organic Village where you’ll spend some time helping local farmers and learning about their daily working routines. Kick back and enjoy a relaxing foot massage that will set the pace for the rest of the day and evening at leisure.
Day 6: Local Life In Hoi An Dive Into Culture
Location: Hoi An
Accommodation Name: Allegro Hoi An
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy some free time this morning to explore Hoi An further or simply relax at your hotel. Your choice of activities this afternoon could see you learn how to craft your own colourful lantern or gain insights into life as a local fisherman (subject to weather conditions). Create a work of art to bring your home luck and happiness, or cast your net wide for the catch of the day – the choice is yours.
Day 7: Head To Hue Via Red Beach Dive Into Culture
Location: Hue
Accommodation Name: Eldora Hue
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
The healthy flavours of Vietnamese cuisine take centre stage as we travel by boat to the Red Bridge Cooking School to learn about the traditional ways of preparing and cooking Vietnamese food. We’ll have an opportunity to savour the dishes we’ve prepared for lunch before returning to Hoi An. This afternoon, our journey takes us over Hai Van Pass en route to Red Beach, where the American Marines first landed in Vietnam during the decades-long war. We continue to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, for our overnight stay.
Day 8: See The Sights Of Hue Connect With Locals
Location: Hue
Accommodation Name: Eldora Hue
Meals Included: Breakfast
We’ll navigate the busy streets of Hue on the back of a cyclo en route to the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel, once home to Nguyen emperors. From here, we drive to Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue's best-preserved religious monument. Boarding a local dragon boat next, we cruise along the Perfume River to the house of the former Princess Ngoc Son where we’ll Connect With Locals and meet a family member for a Be My Guest lunch to gain a glimpse of their life in this historic house. The afternoon is ours to enjoy at leisure or consider joining one of our Optional Experiences.
Day 9: Journey To Ho Chi Minh City Make Travel Matter
Location: Ho Chi Minh City
Accommodation Name: Novotel Saigon
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
A short flight this morning brings you to Ho Chi Minh City, where you’ll enjoy a the iconic sights of Ho Chi Minh revealed on a walking tour of Dong Khoi Street. See the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville. Then, wander up to Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, designed by the renowned Gustave Eiffel. Continue to the War Remnants Museum where you’ll have a vivid glimpse of the war through the eyes of the locals. Your final stop is Ben Thanh market, one of the earliest surviving structures in old Saigon. Finish with dinner at KOTO restaurant. Your MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience visit supports those affected by poverty to provide opportunities and a vocational education in the hospitality sector.
Day 10: Meander Along The Mekong Delta
Location: Mekong River Delta
Accommodation Name: Novotel Saigon
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
The mighty Mekong beckons today, as we take a day trip to Cai Be town, in the heart of the Mekong Delta. We’ll transfer to a charming traditional boat and where we cruise and explore the bustling riverbanks. Visit a beautifully preserved ancient house dating back to the 19th century that has been passed down through many generations of the family. Enjoy a leisurely sampan ride through the narrow canals. topping for a home hosted lunch of delicious Mekong Delta specialities. Before returning to Ho Chi Minh City for an evening at leisure.
Day 11: Visit The Cu Chi Tunnels Dive Into Culture
Location: Ho Chi Minh City
Accommodation Name: Novotel Saigon
Meals Included: Breakfast
We’ll delve into Vietnam’s turbulent history from the previous century with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an immense network of connecting underground tunnels built to protect the Viet Cong guerrillas from the French air and ground sweeps. We’ll explore the underground compounds with a VC veteran and gain an understanding of the history of the tunnels, which once served as living quarters and housed hospitals, food and weapons caches. Returning to Ho Chi Minh City by private speedboat, we’ll enjoy some free time this afternoon. Later, we’ll Dive Into Culture during a visit to the home of the former American Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s, Mr. Henry Cabot Lodge, followed by a Farewell Dinner to say goodbye to your Vietnam Travel Director and those guests not continuing on to Cambodia.
Day 12: Continue To Cambodia
Location: Siem Reap
Accommodation Name: Tara Angkor
Meals Included: Breakfast
Transfer to the airport for the short international flight to Siem Reap in Cambodia. On arrival you will meet your local Cambodian Travel Director, the rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 13: Amazing Angkor Wat Make Travel Matter
Location: Angkor Wat
Accommodation Name: Tara Angkor
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, walk through a pyramid-shaped gateway into an ancient world. Serene stone faces watch over us as we cross the causeway suspended over a moat into the spiritual heart of the ancient lost city of Angkor. A Local Specialist and renowned Khmer scholar brings to life the stories behind the intricate carvings and murals of celestial nymphs and mythical serpents along the abandoned hallways of Angkor Wat. Our next stop is the terracotta-hued walls of Banteay Srei Temple – the “Citadel of Women” dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva. We’ll have time to admire the 10th-century carvings of women, said to have been too delicate to have been carved by a man, hence the name. This afternoon embark on a guided walking tour of the Old Town. Later we’ll visit Wat Damnak and participate in a private blessing ceremony during which a sacred thread will be tied around our wrists to protect against evil spirits. Finishing with a visit to Krabei Riel local village you will have a chance to walk and talk with the villagers who are always keen to share their smiles with you. Learn some of their traditional skills such as palm leaf weaving, your time will be spent truly engaging in a real-life Cambodian Village MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience.
Day 14: Temples Of Angkor
Location: Siem Reap
Accommodation Name: Tara Angkor
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Our first stop today is a visit to the fortified Angkor Thom, where we’ll see such iconic sites as the Terrace of Elephants, the Royal Enclosure and the Temple of Bayon with its giant smiling faces of Buddha. We venture underneath the dense tree canopy to the crumbling, moss-covered ruins of the Buddhist temple of Ta Prohm, which featured as the location for the film ‘Tomb Raider', exploring its towers, courtyards and corridors to uncover the intricate stone reliefs that are shielded by the surrounding foliage. Continuing with a visit to the Old Market, where the locals shop for fresh fruit, vegetables and spices. Wander past the busy stalls and smell freshly baked baguettes, a remnant of the country's French heritage. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure or consider joining an Optional Experience to learn the secrets of Khmer cuisine or a sunset boat cruise on Tonle Sap Lake.This evening transfer for a wonderful dinner accompanied by traditional Apsara Dancing that will bring ancient Khmer culture to life.
Day 15: Travel To Phnom Penh
Location: Phnom Penh
Accommodation Name: Tribe Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
This afternoon, fly to Phnom Penh. Once known as the ‘Pearl of Asia’, it is one of the loveliest French-built cities in Indochina. Later, you'll embark on a cyclo tour - A Dive Into Culture, exploring the city which boasts a rich blend of Khmer and French colonial architecture. You’ll discover the history and catch glimpses of churches and Chinese temples hidden down narrow alleyways.
Day 16: Delve Into Cambodia's History
Location: Phnom Penh
Accommodation Name: Tribe Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Indulge in the exotic flavours of Phnom Penh this morning, joining a Local Specialist for an in-depth city tour. Our first stop is Wat Phnom temple where we’ll delve into the legend of Lady Penh who discovered the four statues of Buddha deposited on this tree-covered hill. We’ll continue to the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda before visiting the National Museum showcasing centuries-old Khmer art and sculptures. Delving deep into the turbulent, terrifying history of the Khmer Rouge years, we’ll travel along a dusty road to the outskirts of the city to visit the former school turned interrogation and execution centre of Tuol Sleng. The history of that time is depicted in the thousands of S-21 portraits of victims that are on display at the Museum of Genocide, Finally, take time to reflect on the past with a visit to the Choeung Ek Killing Fields, where a large memorial was built to commemorate the 17,000 victims who died under the reign of the Khmer Rouge. The evening is free to explore the boutiques in Street 240 area or the many restaurants, cafes, shops along the bustling riverside area.
Day 17: Farewell Phnom Penh
Location: Phnom Penh
Meals Included: Breakfast
Airport shuttles have been arranged to arrive at the airport at 07:30 and 16:00 for your onward flight on the last day of the tour only. Please speak to your Trafalgar representative for further information.
What's Included
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An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
The tour includes the services of an expert Travel Director and a professional driver.
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Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
Accommodation is provided in carefully selected hotels that are tried and trusted.
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All porterage and restaurant gratuities
Porterage and gratuities at restaurants are included in the tour package.
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All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
Hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are covered in the tour.
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Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
Daily breakfast and up to half of the evening meals are included.
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Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
The tour includes must-see sightseeing and surprise extras.
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Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
Audio headsets are provided for flexible sightseeing experiences.
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Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Transportation is provided in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries, or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.
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Optional Experiences and free time
The tour offers optional experiences and free time for personal exploration.
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On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.
If necessary, hotels of similar standard and location may be used.
What's Not Included
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Personal expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Visa fees
Visa fees for entry into Vietnam and Cambodia are not included.
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Optional activities
Optional activities and experiences not listed in the itinerary are not included.
Dining Summary
- 4 Dinner (D)
- 16 Breakfast (B)
- 3 Lunch (L)
- 1 Be My Guest (BMG)
- 1 Farewell Dinner (FD)
Dive Into Culture
- Hanoi: Visit Ho Chi Minh's house in Hanoi.
- Hoi An: Visit the colourful market of Hoi An.
- Hoi An: Join a Lantern Making Workshop or a Fishing Life Tour to learn about the lives of the local fishermen and have a go at casting your own fishing net.
- Ho Chi Minh City: Visit the home of the former American Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s.
Mode of Transport
Travel in luxury with air-conditioned coaches, flights between key destinations, and traditional boats for river cruises. Enjoy seamless transfers and explore Vietnam and Cambodia with ease and comfort.
Accommodation
Experience a blend of comfort and culture with stays at the Silk Path Hotel in Hanoi, a traditional Vietnamese Junk boat in Halong Bay, Allegro Hoi An, Eldora Hue, Novotel Saigon, Tara Angkor in Siem Reap, and Tribe Hotel in Phnom Penh.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the Vietnam and Cambodia Uncovered tour?
The tour includes a variety of unique experiences such as a cyclo tour through Hanoi's Old Quarter, a traditional Vietnamese Junk boat cruise in Halong Bay, a cooking class on the Junk boat, a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels with a VC veteran, and a private blessing ceremony at Wat Damnak in Cambodia.
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How does the tour support local communities?
The tour supports local communities through the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences, such as dining at KOTO restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City, which provides vocational education to those affected by poverty, and visiting a local village in Siem Reap where contributions help support school children and elderly villagers.
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What cultural activities are included in the tour?
Cultural activities include visiting Ho Chi Minh's house in Hanoi, exploring the ancient town of Hoi An, participating in a lantern making workshop or a fishing life tour, and visiting the home of the former American Ambassador to South Vietnam in Ho Chi Minh City.
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What historical sites will be visited during the tour?
The tour visits several historical sites including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature in Hanoi, the Imperial Citadel in Hue, the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels, Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh.
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What kind of accommodation can be expected on the tour?
Accommodation includes stays at cherry-picked hotels such as the Silk Path Hotel in Hanoi, Allegro Hoi An, Eldora Hue, Novotel Saigon, Tara Angkor, and Tribe Hotel in Phnom Penh. Additionally, there is an overnight stay on a traditional Vietnamese Junk boat in Halong Bay.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1947
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trafalgar charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions