Indochina Odyssey: Discovering the Gems of Cambodia and Vietnam 22-Day

Embark on a 22-day journey through Cambodia and Vietnam, where you'll discover ancient temples, bustling cities, and stunning landscapes. Experience the unique blend of history, culture, and modernity as you explore the highlights of these two countries. From the magnificent Angkor Wat in Siem Reap to the tranquil beaches of Phu Quoc Island, this tour has it all.

1. Explore the iconic Angkor Wat in Siem Reap and witness the beauty of its ancient temples and ruins.
2. Discover the rich history of Phnom Penh and visit its significant landmarks, such as the Royal Palace and the Killing Fields.
3. Cruise along the Mekong River and soak up the stunning scenery as you travel from Chau Doc to Can Tho.
4. Immerse yourself in the bustling city life of Ho Chi Minh City and learn about the country's past at the Cu Chi Tunnels.
5. Marvel at the beauty of Halong Bay on an overnight cruise, and enjoy the stunning views of the limestone karsts and emerald waters.
6. Relax on the pristine beaches of Phu Quoc Island, where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and sea, and explore the island's hidden gems.

Today, you will be arriving in Siem Reap, a charming city located in the northwestern region of Cambodia. You will be picked up from the airport and transferred to your hotel in Siem Reap for check-in. Once you have settled into your accommodation, you will have the rest of the day free at leisure to explore the city and its surroundings. You may choose to visit the famous Angkor Wat temple complex, take a stroll through the bustling night market, or simply relax and enjoy the local cuisine. Overnight in Siem Reap.

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Accommodation Options:

La Niche D’angkor Hotel - 3-star or similar

Royal Angkor Resort - 4-star or similar

Angkor Village Hotel - 5-star or similar

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we will drive to Angkor Thom, which was a magnificent architectural masterpiece built by King Jayavarman VII. The king built this fortress in the heart of his empire as a response to the occupation of Angkor by the Chams from 1177 to 1181.

Our first stop will be the Bayon Temple, which is located at the exact center of Angkor Thom. This temple is an eccentric expression of the creative genius and inflated ego of Cambodia's most celebrated king. We will also have a photo stop at the Terrace of the Leper King, which is a unique stone terrace located in the Royal Square of Angkor Thom.

Next, we will visit the Terrace of Elephants, which was originally used as a viewing gallery for the king to preside over parades, performances, and traditional sports. At the southern end of the terrace lies the Baphuon, one of the most beautiful temples at Angkor, dating from the reign of Uditayavarman I in the 11th century.

We will also visit the picturesque Ta Prohm temple, which has nearly disappeared into the jungle and remains overgrown, creating an exotic and haunting scene. The magnificent roots of a tree, which are pushing between the huge stone blocks of the temple in a sort of embrace, evoke feelings that you may remember forever.

Our final stop will be the mother of all temples, Angkor Wat. This temple is believed to be the world's largest religious building and is the perfect fusion of symbolism and symmetry. It is a source of pride and strength to all Khmers.

After a long day of exploring, we will return to the hotel for an overnight stay in Siem Reap.

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Accommodation Options:

La Niche D’angkor Hotel - 3-star or similar

Royal Angkor Resort - 4-star or similar

Angkor Village Hotel - 5-star or similar

We will have the opportunity to explore the beautiful Tonle Sap Lake with a boat ride. This lake is the largest permanent freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and connects to the Tonle Sap River, eventually joining the Mekong River in Phnom Penh. During the boat ride, we will witness the fascinating lifestyle of local fishermen in a "floating village" with unique features such as floating schools and even a floating police station. This village is like a big community floating on the lake, moving from one location to another depending on the water levels and current.

After the boat ride, we will transfer to the Siem Reap bus station and board a shuttle bus to Phnom Penh. Once we arrive at the Siem Reap bus station, our driver (no guide) will be waiting to take us to the hotel for check-in. We will spend the night in Phnom Penh, ready to explore more of this vibrant city the following day.

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Accommodation Options:

Okay Boutique Hotel - 3-star or similar

Anik Palace Hotel - 4-star or similar

Palace Gate Hotel - 5-star or similar

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, the tour will begin with a visit to the Royal Palace compound, which was built in 1866 by the predecessors of King Norodom. The palace boasts an impressive and colorful Khmer-style architecture and is the most prominent feature in Phnom Penh. Adjacent to the Royal Palace is the Silver Pagoda, also known as the Emerald Buddha temple, which displays numerous Buddha statues decorated with diamonds, emeralds, gold and silver.

Next, you will proceed to the National Museum, a distinctive red building with beautiful Khmer architecture that has been standing since 1917. It contains over 5,000 art objects made of sandstone, bronze, silver, copper, wood and other materials. The tour continues with a visit to the Independence Monument, which was constructed in 1954 to commemorate Cambodia's independence from French colonial rule.

At noon, you will visit Phsar Thmey, also known as the Central Market. This large market, constructed in 1937, features a dome-shaped building with four branching arms leading to vast hallways filled with countless stalls selling a wide range of products, including gold and silver, antique coins, money exchange, books, flowers, fabrics, shoes, souvenirs, seafood, and more.

Next, you will head to Wat Phnom, also known as the Mountain Pagoda, a Buddhist temple located on a hill that symbolizes the name of Phnom Penh. According to legend, the first pagoda on this site was erected in 1372 to house four Buddha statues discovered by Lady Penh in the waters of the Mekong River. Wat Phnom is a popular place for locals to come and play, pray for good luck, and admire the stunning sunset.

In the late afternoon, you will enjoy a sunset cruise on the Mekong River to view the Royal Palace from the water as it bursts into four branches. Overnight in Phnom Penh.

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Accommodation Options:

Okay Boutique Hotel - 3-star or similar

Anik Palace Hotel - 4-star or similar

Palace Gate Hotel - 5-star or similar

You will be picked up by our guide and driver at the pier in Phnom Penh, and then transferred to Chau Doc in Vietnam. Upon arrival, we will visit the Ba Chua Xu Temple, the most important destination for all tours in Chau Doc. The temple is dedicated to a goddess who is believed to have the power to bring good fortune and prosperity to her devotees. After that, we will visit the Forbidden Mountain, which is famous for its panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

After the sightseeing tour, we will check in at our hotel in Chau Doc, and you will have free time at your leisure. You can explore the town on your own, or simply relax at the hotel. Overnight in Chau Doc.

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Accommodation Options:

Chau Pho Hotel - 3-star or similar

Victoria Chau Doc Hotel - 4-star or similar

Victoria Chau Doc Hotel - 4-star (local best)

After breakfast, we will visit Tra Su, a wild bird sanctuary located in the heart of the Mekong Delta. We will cruise on small boats to discover the splendid canals deep into the forest, and watch storks, cranes, and other tropical birds in their natural habitat.

In the afternoon, we will drive to Can Tho, the largest city in the Mekong Delta. Upon arrival, we will check in at our hotel, and you will have free time to explore the city on your own. Overnight in Can Tho.

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Accommodation Options:

Holiday 2 Hotel - 3-star or similar

TTC Hotel - Can Tho - 4-star or similar

Sheraton Can Tho - 5-star or similar

After breakfast, we will take a boat trip to witness the Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest floating market in the Mekong Delta. Here, you will see local farmers trading their produce on the water, just as they have done for centuries. You can also try some of the local specialties such as noodle soup, coffee, and fresh fruits.

After the market visit, we will drive to a fruit orchard where you can sample the tropical fruits grown in this region and try some local tea. We will then drive back to Ho Chi Minh City, arriving around 5:00 pm. You will check into the hotel, have free time at leisure, and stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

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Accommodation Options:

Elios Hotel Saigon - 3-star or similar

Ramada Encore Saigon Hotel - 4-star or similar

Majestic Saigon Hotel - 5-star or similar

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, embark on a fascinating journey through the highlights of Ho Chi Minh City. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, a stunning example of neo-Romanesque architecture built by the French in the 19th century. Next, stop at the historic Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel and featuring a beautiful interior of intricate maps, intricate designs, and arched windows. Then, explore the Reunification Palace, the former presidential palace of South Vietnam and a symbol of the country's tumultuous past.

After a break for lunch at a local restaurant, the afternoon takes you to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, a popular destination for both Vietnamese and foreign tourists. The tunnels, which span over 200km, played a critical role during the Vietnam War and were functioning underground cities that included trap doors, living areas, storage facilities, weapon factories, field hospitals, command centers, and kitchens. You will learn about the construction of the tunnels and spend the next few hours exploring the tunnels and war remnants, gaining insights into the harsh conditions and ingenious methods used to maintain life in the tunnels. You'll even have a chance to sample some of the simple cuisine that local fighters survived on and venture into the tunnels to experience the complex firsthand.

After the tour, return to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City for a comfortable overnight stay. The distance between Saigon and Cu Chi Tunnel is approximately 75 km, which takes about 1.5 hours to drive.

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Accommodation Options:

Elios Hotel Saigon - 3-star or similar

Ramada Encore Saigon Hotel - 4-star or similar

Majestic Saigon Hotel - 5-star or similar

After breakfast at the hotel, you have the day at leisure to explore Ho Chi Minh City on your own or indulge in some shopping until it's time for your flight to Hoi An. Upon arrival, you will be picked up at the airport and transferred to your hotel in Hoi An for check-in. The rest of the day is free for you to relax, explore the city or go shopping. Enjoy an overnight stay in Hoi An.

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Accommodation Options:

Garden Palace Hotel and Spa - 4-star or similar

Lantana Riverside Hoi An Hotel - 4-star or similar

KOI Resorts and Spa - 5-star or similar

Enjoy a full-day excursion to Hoi An, a charming and historic trading center that was once known as “Faifo” to the earliest Western traders. It was also an important port for the Dutch, Portuguese, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, and other merchant vessels from the Far East.

Your tour will start with a visit to a temple located in the center of Hoi An. The temple has partially gilded statues and reflects the influences of Chinese and Japanese styles. You will also visit a pagoda that is dedicated to sailors and fishermen, and a chapel that has origins dating back to the 1700s.

Next, you will stop at the Sa Huynh Museum, which is located near the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. The museum contains exhibitions from the earliest period of Hoi An’s history, offering a glimpse into the city's rich and fascinating past.

Later in the afternoon, you will take a boat trip on the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong Village on Cam Kim Island. Here, you will see the skilled woodworkers and shipbuilding families who have been practicing their craft for generations. It's a unique opportunity to experience the traditional way of life in this part of Vietnam.

Finally, you will return to your haven on the world-famous “Cua Dai Beach.” Spend the evening at your leisure, relaxing on the beautiful beach and enjoying the stunning scenery. Overnight in Hoi An.

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Accommodation Options:

Garden Palace Hotel and Spa - 4-star or similar

Lantana Riverside Hoi An Hotel - 4-star or similar

KOI Resorts and Spa - 5-star or similar

After having breakfast at the hotel, you will leave at 8:00 am to visit My Son, a UNESCO World Heritage site located 50 km southwest of Hoi An. My Son was once a capital and religious center of the Cham people and is now home to red brick towers and sanctuaries. It is considered to be one of Southeast Asia's greatest archaeological sites, along with Angkor in Cambodia, Bagan in Myanmar, Ayutthaya in Thailand, and Borobudur in Indonesia. The towers and sanctuaries were built between the 7th and 13th centuries.

During your visit, you will explore the lush valley and learn about the Cham civilization and their beliefs. You will have the opportunity to admire the intricate carvings and sculptures on the temples and learn about their significance.

You will return to Hoi An town for lunch on your own around 1:00 pm. In the afternoon, you will have some free time to go shopping or explore the town at your own pace. Hoi An is known for its beautiful lanterns, tailor-made clothing, and handcrafted souvenirs, so you might want to explore the local shops and markets.

The trip ends with an overnight stay in Hoi An.

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Accommodation Options:

Garden Palace Hotel and Spa - 4-star or similar

Lantana Riverside Hoi An Hotel - 4-star or similar

KOI Resorts and Spa - 5-star or similar

After having breakfast at your hotel, at 9:00 am, a driver from Legend Travel Group will pick you up and take you to Hue City. On the way, you will stop at Cham Museum and Ngu Hanh Son Mountain in Da Nang. You will need to purchase the tickets for these attractions on your own. Then, continue your trip with the driver to Hai Van Pass, where you can take in the stunning views of Son Tra Peninsula from the top. Have a short break at Lang Co Beach before arriving in Hue City in the afternoon. Check in at your hotel and have some free time to explore the imperial city. Overnight in Hue.

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Accommodation Options:

Cherish Hotel Hue - 3-star or similar

White Lotus Hue Hotel - 4-star or similar

Imperial Hue Hotel - 5-star or similar

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, embark on a delightful boat trip along the romantic Perfume River to visit Thien Mu Pagoda, which is the oldest and most revered site in Hue. Admire the stunning views of the river and the lush surroundings, and learn about the rich history and cultural significance of the pagoda from your knowledgeable guide. Next, you will visit the mausoleums of Emperor Khai Dinh and Tu Duc, two of the most iconic and historic landmarks in Hue.

Take a break for lunch at a local restaurant, where you can savor delicious traditional Vietnamese cuisine and immerse yourself in the local dining culture.

In the afternoon, continue your Hue sightseeing tour by exploring the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the grandeur and sophistication of the Nguyen Dynasty. Discover the fascinating history and architecture of the Purple Forbidden City, which was once the exclusive domain of the emperors and their royal family. Next, visit Thuy Xuan incense-making village, where you can witness the traditional process of making incense and learn about its cultural significance in Vietnam. Finally, head to Dong Ba market, the largest and most vibrant market in Hue, where you can shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and local specialties.

After a full day of sightseeing, return to your hotel for a relaxing overnight stay in Hue. Get ready for more exciting adventures tomorrow!

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Accommodation Options:

Cherish Hotel Hue - 3-star or similar

White Lotus Hue Hotel - 4-star or similar

Imperial Hue Hotel - 5-star or similar

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel in Hue City, you will have some free time to explore the city at your leisure until it's time to transfer to the airport for your flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival in Hanoi, you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is free for you to relax. You will spend the night at your hotel before continuing your journey.

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Accommodation Options:

TK-123 Hanoi - 3-star or similar

Lion Boutique Hanoi Hotel - 4-star or similar

Hotel du Parc Hanoi - 5-star or similar

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, our van will pick you up at 8:00 am to begin the day's activities. Our first stop is the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you can learn about the incredible life of Uncle Ho and pay your respects to him. We will also visit the Presidential Palace and his residential place.

Our next stop is the nearby Temple of Literature, which was built in the twelfth century and was the site of Vietnam's first university. Here, you can learn about Confucius's theory and even enjoy a traditional music performance.

For lunch, we'll head to a local restaurant for a taste of authentic Hanoi Pho, a delicious noodle soup. In the afternoon, you can choose to visit one of the numerous museums or temples around Hanoi, such as the Museum of Ethnology, Women's Museum, History Museum, or Quan Thanh Temple.

Later in the afternoon, we'll take a relaxing stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and explore Hanoi's fascinating Old Quarter. Here, you can enjoy some great shopping and try some street-side traditional food, like the famous "Hanoi bia." This is a wonderful opportunity to experience typical Hanoian style and traditional Vietnamese culture.

To cap off the day, you can choose to attend the Water Puppet Show, a beloved experience for all visitors to Vietnam. Please inform your Tour Operator if you would like to book a ticket, as there is an additional cost of approximately US $6.00 per ticket.

After a fun and informative day, we'll check in to our hotel and stay overnight in Hanoi.

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Accommodation Options:

TK-123 Hanoi - 3-star or similar

Lion Boutique Hanoi Hotel - 4-star or similar

Hotel du Parc Hanoi - 5-star or similar

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, our private mini-van/bus will pick you up between 8:30 am to 9:00 am to begin your journey to Halong City. During the 3.5-hour drive, you will have the opportunity to view the simple countryside and rice paddy life along the way. Once you arrive at the port, you will board your private boat - an authentic Chinese Junk - and begin your amazing cruise through the stunning Halong Bay, a World Heritage Site. Lunch will be served on board and will consist of a selection of the freshest seafood.

During the cruise, we will visit "the Amazing cave" and then take a swim in the tranquil emerald waters of Halong Bay. We will then cruise further into a quiet area where we will anchor and spend the night. You will enjoy dinner and relax as the sun sets over the bay. Afterward, you are free to swim in the phosphorescent water, retire to your cabin, or even fall asleep under the stars on the top deck, surrounded by the magic of Halong. You will spend the night on the boat, taking in the stunning surroundings of the bay.

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Accommodation Options:

MILA Cruises - 3-star or similar

Pelican Cruises - 4-star or similar

Paradise Sails Cruises - 5-star or similar

Wake up early in the morning to witness a beautiful sunrise and breathe in the fresh ocean air. Enjoy breakfast served on the boat as we leisurely cruise through thousands of stunning and seemingly never-ending islands. This is an amazing opportunity to capture some breathtaking photographs of the scenery. We will also make a stop to visit a floating fishing village and hear legendary stories of the fishermen's daily life.

Lunch will be served on the boat as we cruise back to the Halong City pier. From there, we will return to Hanoi. You will arrive in Hanoi around 3:30 pm to 4:00 pm. Check in at your hotel and take advantage of some free time to explore the fascinating Old Quarter of Hanoi on your own. Take the opportunity to indulge in some delicious local street food or browse the shops for souvenirs. You will spend the night in Hanoi.

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Accommodation Options:

TK-123 Hanoi - 3-star or similar

Lion Boutique Hanoi Hotel - 4-star or similar

Hotel du Parc Hanoi - 5-star or similar

After enjoying a satisfying breakfast at your hotel, you will have the morning free to spend at your leisure or to do some shopping in Hanoi before being transferred to the airport for your flight to Phu Quoc Island. Upon arrival, a representative will be waiting to greet you and transfer you to your hotel for check-in. You will then have the rest of the day to explore the beautiful island on your own or simply relax and soak up the sun at your hotel. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay in Phu Quoc City, ready to embark on your next adventure in Vietnam.

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Accommodation Options:

La Paloma Resort - 3-star or similar

Kingo Retreat Resort - 4-star or similar

Dusit Princess Moonrise Beach Resort - 5-star or similar

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, including a mix of local and international cuisine. Visit the Phu Quoc Prison Museum, an important historical site offering insight into the island's dark past during the Vietnam War. Explore the Dinh Cau Night Market, a bustling local market with an array of food, souvenirs, and handmade crafts. Visit the Suoi Tranh Waterfall, a beautiful natural attraction perfect for taking a refreshing dip and enjoying the scenery. Discover the beauty of Sao Beach, one of the most stunning beaches in Vietnam with crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and swaying palm trees. Watch the sunset over the Gulf of Thailand at Dinh Cau Rock, a popular tourist spot offering panoramic views and great photo opportunities. Finally, arrive at the hotel at 5:00 pm, check-in, and enjoy your leisure time overnight in Phu Quoc Island.

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Accommodation Options:

La Paloma Resort - 3-star or similar

Kingo Retreat Resort - 4-star or similar

Dusit Princess Moonrise Beach Resort - 5-star or similar

After having breakfast at the hotel, you have the whole day free to relax and enjoy the beautiful beaches of Phu Quoc Island. Take a swim in the clear waters, bask in the sun, or simply stroll along the sandy shores. There are plenty of water sports and beach activities available for those seeking a bit of adventure. Alternatively, you can also explore the island on your own, visiting local markets or trying out some of the delicious seafood cuisine. Whatever you choose, enjoy your free day to the fullest. Stay overnight in Phu Quoc Island.

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Accommodation Options:

La Paloma Resort - 3-star or similar

Kingo Retreat Resort - 4-star or similar

Dusit Princess Moonrise Beach Resort - 5-star or similar

Start the day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel and then spend the day at your leisure. You can take this opportunity to do some shopping, visit nearby attractions or indulge in some of the island's famous seafood. If you want to explore more of the island, there are a number of day trips and excursions that you can join, including island hopping tours, snorkeling trips, or visits to local villages. Alternatively, you can simply spend another day soaking up the sun on the beach. Whatever you choose, make the most of your final day on Phu Quoc Island. Overnight in Phu Quoc Island.

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Accommodation Options:

La Paloma Resort - 3-star or similar

Kingo Retreat Resort - 4-star or similar

Dusit Princess Moonrise Beach Resort - 5-star or similar

After breakfast at the hotel, you will check out and end your amazing beach vacation in Phu Quoc Island. Legend Travel Group will arrange for your airport transfer from the hotel to the airport for your departure flight. This marks the end of your tour with Legend Travel Group. Thank you for choosing us as your travel companion and we hope to see you again soon for your next adventure with us. Alternatively, if you wish to extend your stay on the island, please inform us at least 24 hours in advance and we will arrange your airport transfer accordingly.