Angkor to the Bay
Escorted tour
Siem Reap – Angkor – Phnom Penh - Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta Cruise - Hoi An – Hue – Hanoi – Ha Long Bay Cruise
Take a voyage of discovery from the breathtaking majesty of the temples of Angkor to spine chilling stories from the Cu Chi Tunnels. Join a cyclo tour through Hanoi’s Old Quarter and marvel at the spectacular natural grandeur of Ha Long Bay where unique rock sculptures jut out dramatically from the clear emerald waters. This is truly a journey of diversity, encompassing must visit sites with lesserknown local surprises on the way.
Your Itinerary
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Day 1
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Day 2
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Day 3
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Day 4
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Day 5
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Day 6
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Day 7
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Day 8
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Day 9
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Day 10&11
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Day 12
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Day 13&14
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Day 15
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Day 16
Day 1 : Siem Reap
On arrival in Siem Reap you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure soaking up the local culture.
Day 2 : Tonle Sap Lake
Depending on your travel date will determine the final itinerary on today's Tonle Sap Lake Cruise. Examples include a visit to Beng Mealea, a mysterious temple overrun by the jungle or visiting the floating villages of Kampong Kleng or Chong Kneas. This evening sit down to dinner and the Apsara dance show.
Day 3 : Explore Angkor
The seat of the Khmer Empire between the 9th and 15th centuries, the Angkor complex includes over 1,000 temples. Enter the walled city of Angkor Thom and head to its heart to see the enigmatic Bayon, followed by the atmospheric Ta Prohm. This afternoon is dedicated to the indescribable Angkor Wat. Later, take a leisurely boat ride on the moat of Angkor Thom and enjoy a refreshing beer as the sun sets.
Day 4 : Phnom Penh
Following breakfast, fly to Phnom Penh, a city of airy boulevards and colonial villas. Visit the magnificent Royal Palace, the official residence of the King, and Silver Pagoda in its grounds. Sightseeing today will involve approximately 3 hours on foot.
Day 5 : Ho Chi Minh City
Visit the emotive Tuol Sleng Museum, where you will learn about the struggles of the Cambodian civilians under the brutal Khmer Rouge regime. Stop at the city's namesake temple, Wat Phnom, before a short 1-hour flight to Ho Chi Minh in South Vietnam.
Day 6 : Ho Chi Minh City & Cu Chi Tunnels
The Cu Chi Tunnels can be emotional for some visitors, but it offers a fascinating window into the hardship and trauma of war. Sightseeing includes, if you choose, crawling through some of the tunnels. Return to the city and gain further insights into this period at the Reunification Palace and the poignant War Remnants Museum, before finishing at Ben Thanh Market.
Day 7 : Mekong Delta Cruise
Travel to the picturesque province of Ben Tre to take a cruise on the mighty Mekong. Paddle through this 'Rice Basket of Vietnam', a rich and fertile land known for its production of rice, coconuts, vegetables and tropical fruits. Spend the day exploring, travelling by motorboat between the islands and changing to smaller paddleboats in the canals.
Day 8 : Ho Chi Minh City & Hoi An
The exuberant city of Ho Chi Minh is driving Vietnam forward into the modern world, but it is also a treasure trove of fascinating heritage. Discover its architectural gems, including the Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office and Thien Hau Pagoda. Later, fly to Hoi An, a UNESCO listed town renowned for its historic atmosphere and high-quality tailors.
Day 9 : Hoi An
Drive out into the countryside to the small farming community of Tra Que. Here you can enjoy the lush green countryside and try your hand at age-old farming techniques before taking part in a cooking demonstration, learning the art of a local dish. After lunch take a walking tour of Hoi An, to see the elaborate Japanese Bridge, a Chinese temple and the bustling market. With its swaying lanterns, bobbing gondolas and cheery yellow houses, the Old Town is a delight to wander.
Day 10&11 : Hue
Drive to Hue, travelling over the scenic Hai Van Pass. Once the stronghold of the Nguyen Emperors, Hue exudes imperial grandeur at every turn. Visit the Picturesque Thien Mu Pagoda and cruise along the Perfume River. The next day, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the Imperial Citadel and Forbidden City, along with the Royal Tomb of Minh Mang. Stop at a beautiful old 'maison' that has been transformed into a Truc Chi bamboo paper workshop and learn all about this art.
Day 12 : Hanoi
After breakfast take a short flight to the charming capital city of Hanoi. This afternoon take a thrilling cyclo ride through the Old Quarter and enjoy a flavourful Vietnamese coffee at a café overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake.
Day 13&14 : Ha Long Bay Cruise
Spend two days aboard a comfortable cruise ship sailing amongst magnificent karst peaks on the tranquil green waters of Ha Long Bay. Spend the night on the boat before returning to Hanoi. Attend the Quintessence of Tonkin show, a spectacular open-air performance celebrating the rich history of northern Vietnam.
Day 15 : Hanoi
Discover Hanoi's history and the story of President Ho Chi Minh on a walking tour. See his Mausoleum in Ba Dinh Square and admire the Presidential Palace. Explore its peaceful grounds and visit the Humble House on Stilts, where he lived during his rule. Finally, visit the beautiful Temple of Literature before this evening's farewell dinner.
Day 16 : Depart Hanoi
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and day at leisure before your transfer to the airport for your return flight or onward journey.
