Magnificent Mekong: Escorted Vietnam & Cambodia Tour with Return Flights

Departures & Pricing

Upgrades, transfers, accommodation and more can be quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Itinerary

1. 1

   Fly To Siem Reap

   Days 1–2

   Fly overnight from Australia to Cambodia. You will be met at Siem Reap in the Arrivals hall by your Local Guide or National Escort. Together with all other group members who may be arriving at a similar time travel to your hotel for check in.

2. 3

   The Temples Of Angkor

   Journey into the old city of Angkor Thom. At its heart is the enigmatic Bayon, an iconic temple of innumerable sculptural decorations. Admire the Elephant Terrace and Terrace of the Leper King before continuing to the atmospheric Ta Prohm. The rest of the afternoon is dedicated to Angkor Wat, the most magnificent and best preserved of all of Angkor's treasures. As the sun sets, float peacefully on the moat that surrounds Angkor Thom, soaking up the atmosphere. Sit down to a welcome dinner with the group this evening.

3. 4

   Tonle Sap

   Travel to the shores of Tonle Sap and visit the floating village of Kampong Phluk (Oct to Feb) or Chong Kneas (Mar to Sep). Stop at Chansar village for a glimpse at rural life before visiting the home of a local Khmer family.

4. 5

   Fly To Phnom Penh

   Fly to Cambodia's charming capital, Phnom Penh. Board a cyclo and head into the heart of the city to visit the magnificent Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda before perusing the treasures of the National Museum. Stop to visit Wat Phnom before ending the day with a glass of refreshing local beer.

5. 6

   Board The Victoria Mekong

   Spend the morning confronting Phnom Penh's tragic past with visits to Tuol Sleng Museum and the Killing Fields. Transfer to Sisowath Quay and board the Victoria Mekong whilst being serenaded with traditional music. Relax with a sundowner on deck and enjoy an Apsara dance performance before sitting down to a sumptuous gala dinner.

6. 7

   Into Vietnam

   The ship departs this morning, with plenty of on-board activities available; alternatively, spend the morning relaxing in the pool. Sail into Vietnam around lunchtime, anchoring near Tan Chau. Tender ashore to visit a Taoist temple and see the intriguing stilt houses. Return to the ship in time for a traditional lion dance performance.

7. 8

   Floating Market And Tan Loc Island

   Continue downstream to Long Xuyen and disembark to visit the bustling floating market and a local museum. After lunch back on-board, arrive at Tan Loc Island, where you'll be able to explore the Ancient House and a lush garden for tea and fruit – a taste of Mekong hospitality. Later, go by local motorcart to a plum wine distillery and taste this intriguing local beverage made from fermented rose apples. Sail on to Can Tho, a Mekong Delta city where the ship will dock. Enjoy a performance of Don Ca Tai Tu – traditional music of the Mekong, while you sip a farewell cocktail and enjoy dinner.

8. 9

   Disembark In Can Tho

   Enjoy breakfast on-board and visit a local floating market by boat. Disembark and bid farewell to the Victoria Mekong, boarding the ship's shuttle bus from Can Tho to Saigon, stopping en route in Cai Be for a delicious local lunch. Dinner this evening will be at Noir, a restaurant that supports Saigon's visually impaired, for a sensory 'dining in the dark' experience.

9. 10

   Explore Saigon

   This morning, visit the fascinating Cu Chi Tunnels to learn the history of the Viet Cong and their guerrilla tactics during the Vietnam War. Return to Saigon, a vibrant, modern city with a treasure trove of fascinating heritage. See the colonial Notre Dame Cathedral, visit the Central Post Office, and the chilling War Remnants Museum. Relax with a coffee break at one of Saigon's popular coffee houses.

10. 11

    Discover Hoi An

    Fly from Saigon to Danang and transfer to the enchanting town of Hoi An. Head out to explore, with visits including Chua Ong Pagoda and the spectacular Japanese Covered Bridge. Grab some refreshments at the Reaching Out Tea House, a wonderful social project in the heart of town.

11. 12

    Tra Que Village

    Head out into Hoi An's countryside surroundings to visit a small farming community that supplies much of the areas vegetables and herbs. Here you can enjoy the lush, green landscapes and stroll through the gardens to see the farmers at work. This afternoon is at leisure.

12. 13

    Hanoi Cyclo Tour

    Fly to Vietnam's capital city, Hanoi. A fast-paced yet graceful city, it is packed full of ancient and modern sights to discover. Begin exploring at the serene Temple of Literature before taking a cyclo tour through the Old Quarter's atmospheric tangle of streets with a stop for local delicacy 'ca phe trung' (egg coffee) en route.

13. 14

    The Quintessence Of Tonkin

    Today, head to the Ho Chi Minh Quarter, where you'll pass 'Uncle Ho's' monumental mausoleum and Stilt House, before seeing the Old Pillar Pagoda. Tonight, attend one of Hanoi's famously breathtaking artistic performances.

14. 15

    Cruise Halong Bay

    Days 15–16

    Travel to Halong City, board a cruise boat and set sail on the tranquil blue-green waters of Halong Bay. With its 1,600 islands and islets, the bay was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. As you explore you'll make excursions to mysterious caves and enjoy delicious seafood on-board. After a night anchored out on the water, rise early to see the sun come up before cruising back to port. Return to Hanoi where, this evening, there will be a farewell dinner.

15. 17

    Fly Hanoi To Australia

    Days 17–18

    Fly to Australia, arriving home the same or following day.

Accommodation

Book this cruise

Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.