Vietnam, Cambodia & the Riches of the Mekong

The Mekong River winds its way from the Tibetan plateaus of China's Yunnan province through the rainforests, plains, and rice fields of five Southeast Asian countries before meeting the South China Sea. In terms of length, it's the 12th-largest river in the world, but in terms of historic, cultural, and ecological richness, the Mekong has no equal. Many sagas of ancient empires, colonial powers, and modern conflicts have unfolded along her banks. Yet through it all, the Mekong remains first and foremost a lifeline. Temples, trade routes, and fishing villages in the river's path are today untouched by time, just as the way of life they represent. And nowhere are the river's riches more apparent than in the neighboring but distinct countries of Vietnam and Cambodia.

The Trip

Your journey begins with Vietnam's bustling capital, Hanoi, followed by an excursion to fabled Ha Long Bay. Said to be the lair of dragons, the Bay's limestone outcroppings provide a breathtaking setting for an overnight sojourn. The next day, a short flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia, brings you to the gateway of the largest ancient city in the world. Explore Angkor Archeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site laden with magnificent temples that once heralded the grandeur of the Khmer empire. Nearby, Tonle Sap Lake provides the launching point for your graceful Mekong River adventure. Experience life on the river from small rural villages to booming capitals, visiting temples floating markets and much more along the way during your unforgettable Mekong River odyssey.

Day 1 - Hanoi
Hotel check-in

Day 2 - Hanoi
City tour. Rickshaw ride and Water Puppet Show.

Day 3 - Hanoi & Ha Long Bay
Motor coach to Ha Long Bay. Bay excursion. Overnight cruise onboard traditional wooden junk.

Day 4 - Ha Long Bay & Siem Reap
Transfer to Hanoi Airport for afternoon flight to Siem Reap. Hotel check-in.

Day 5 - Siem Reap
Angkor Archaeological Park - Angkor Thom & Angkor Wat.

Day 6 - Siem Reap
Excursion to Banteay Srei & Ta Prohm Temple.

Day 7 - Siem Reap & Tonle Sap Lake
Check-in for cruise. Embarkation. Welcome dinner.

Day 8 - Kampong Chhnang, Kampong Tralach, & Oudong
Local boat excursion to lakeside wetland. Oxcart ride. Visit to Wat Kapong Tralach Pleu. Visit to Buddhist monastery.

Day 9 - Chong Koh & Phnom Penh
Walk at leisure to Silk Weaving village. Orientation walking tour.

Day 10 - Phnom Penh
City tour. Royal Palace & National Museum Killing Fields excursion.

Day 11 - Border Crossing
Cruising from Cambodia to Vietnam.

Day 12 - Tan Chau
Canal cruise. Visit fish farm. Trishaw ride. Mat-making & slipper workshop.

Day 13 - Sa Dec, Xeo Quyt, & Cai Be
Boat ride to Sa Dec Village. Visit to local market, Museum, and temple. Xeo Quyt excursion. Local junk trip to floating market. Rice paper & candy-making workshop visit.

Day 14 - Ho Chi Minh City (My Tho Port)
Disembarkation. City tour.

Day 15 - Ho Chi Minh City
Free time at leisure.

Day 16 - Ho Chi Minh City
Airport transfer.