25-Day Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos Tour Adventure

Your private guide will be ready to meet and greet you at the arrival hall in Hanoi. A comfortable private car with an experienced driver will transfer you directly to your hotel. Your guide will help you to check-in.

Delve into the enchanting city of Hanoi, often dubbed the 'Paris of the East.' Marvel at its captivating yellow ochre colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards, and serene lakes. Your journey begins at the historic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, an imposing structure housing the revered Vietminh leader, fondly known as "Uncle Ho" by the Vietnamese.

You'll then visit the One Pillar Pagoda, a wooden Buddhist temple crafted in 1049, resembling a lotus blossom perched on a single stone pillar. Nearby, explore Ho Chi Minh's House, a simple wooden abode surrounded by tranquility, where Ho Chi Minh lived and worked. Step inside to see some of his personal items and even peek into his bedroom.

One Pillar Pagoda

Embark on a cultural odyssey as you proceed to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's inaugural national university dating back to the late 11th century. This picturesque temple showcases well-preserved traditional Vietnamese architecture and graces the 100,000 Vietnamese dong banknote.

In the afternoon, set your sights on the captivating Museum of Ethnology, which houses an extensive collection of traditional costumes and artifacts from Vietnam's 54 diverse ethnic minority groups. Your journey continues with a leisurely 1-hour cyclo tour through Hanoi's renowned Old Quarter. Traverse the labyrinth of narrow streets, famed for their "36 streets of 36 wares," a nod to the original 36 artisan guilds dating back to the 13th century. Discover the charming maze of backstreets lined with tunnel-tube houses, designed to minimize tax payments based on street frontage width.

Exploring Dong Ngac Village by Bike: Start your day around 07:30 to 08:00 as your guide and driver pick you up from your hotel for a short 15-kilometer journey to Dong Ngac Village, a designated Cultural Heritage Site. This village boasts a rich history of producing scholars who achieved high ranks in Vietnam's mandarin system.

Begin your adventure at the local market, where vibrant sights and scents immerse you in village life. Your guide will assist you in selecting offerings for the houses and Communal House you'll visit in the village.

Hop on your bicycle to explore the village's winding lanes, including one of the oldest preserved houses, which holds centuries of history. Continue your journey to the Chem Communal House, the ceremonial heart of the village, with its traditional architecture and tranquil atmosphere. Passing the village's oldest school, founded in 1921, you'll witness the village's commitment to education.

Return to your host family's home for a Vietnamese cooking demonstration. You can try your hand at preparing a dish and enjoy the results during lunch.

After this heartwarming meal, take some time to relax in the peaceful village atmosphere. Your tour concludes at 13:00 as you head back to your hotel, leaving behind cherished memories of Dong Ngac Village.

Hiking Adventure in Pu Luong: Your day begins with a transfer from Hanoi to the enchanting Pu Luong. Upon arrival, you'll enjoy a delicious lunch to refuel for your adventure.

In the afternoon, head to a suspension bridge overlooking the serene Cham River. From here, you have the flexibility to choose your own hiking path, spanning 3 to 6 kilometers. You'll venture into the lush landscape in pursuit of captivating water wheels.

Approach these rustic marvels closely to witness the ingenuity behind transporting river water through skillfully crafted bamboo aqueducts, using a variety of simple yet effective constructions.

After your hike, return to the Pu Luong Retreat for some well-deserved refreshments and a delightful dinner. It's the perfect way to end your day in this picturesque Vietnamese paradise.

Kho Muong to Uoi Village Trek: Begin early as you descend into a beautiful valley, wandering amidst terraced rice fields. A 6-kilometer trail leads to Kho Muong, an idyllic village nestled beneath a towering mountain. You'll explore the "Bat Cave" and savor lunch in a local stilt house. Afterward, trek 7 kilometers through the jungle, soaking in the rich flora and fauna. The journey takes you to Uoi village, a hidden forest gem. Enjoy diverse landscapes along the way. Your day ends at Pu Luong Retreat's Garden View Bungalow.

Pu Luong to Ninh Binh Adventure: After a leisurely morning, check out by 12:00. We'll arrange your transfer to your Ninh Binh hotel. In the afternoon, embark on a mesmerizing journey to Tam Coc, often likened to "Halong Bay on Land." A skilled rower will guide you through a 2-hour scenic exploration of meandering rivers and enchanting canals. Marvel at the striking karst formations and glide through three captivating natural caves nestled beneath the hills. Your day concludes at your Ninh Binh hotel.

Experience an unforgettable journey aboard the Orchid Cruise: Upon arrival at Tuan Chau Marina, start your voyage with check-in procedures in the waiting lounge. A tender boat will then transfer you to the Orchid Cruises. Gather at the restaurant for a warm welcome with refreshments and a cruise briefing. While enjoying lunch, you'll explore the mesmerizing Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay, both recognized as natural wonders.

orchid cruise

Adventures and Relaxation: Embark on an exciting adventure to Dark Cave and Bright Cave, offering close encounters with the breathtaking landscapes. Choose between a bamboo boat or kayak to explore these magnificent natural wonders. Orchid Cruises then sail to Tra Bau in Lan Ha Bay, where you can unwind with a swim in the emerald waters. In the evening, partake in a cooking demonstration, savor a deluxe dinner, and appreciate the bay's beauty during sunset. Engage in various activities, such as squid fishing, movie-watching, and games like chess and cards.

Optional Massage and Evening Delights: Indulge in an optional massage service directly arranged with our Cruise Manager. As the night falls, the sundeck and restaurant bar provide the perfect ambiance to unwind. Whether you're trying your hand at squid fishing or enjoying a movie in the restaurant, the evening offers a variety of ways to enjoy the serene beauty of the bay.

Morning Bliss and Exploration: Begin your day with a serene Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the sun rises over Halong Bay. If you're an early riser eager to catch the dawn, our sailors are ready to assist you from 5:30 to 6:00, depending on the season. After this tranquil start, relish a hearty breakfast in the restaurant as you continue your cruise.

Kayaking and Farewell: The morning offers an exciting kayaking adventure in the Ao Ech area, allowing you to uncover the hidden beauty of Ha Long - Lan Ha Bay. Return to Orchid Cruises at 8:30 for the check-out process. Your journey culminates with a delightful brunch in our restaurant while cruising back. At 11:30, bid farewell to Orchid Premium as you disembark at Tuan Chau Marina, bringing your unforgettable cruise experience to a close.

Discover Hue's Essence in One Day: Citadel, Imperial City, Royal Tombs, Perfume River Boat Trip, and Thien Mu Pagoda

Hue, a city that once served as the capital during the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945, boasts a rich historical legacy. Begin your journey with a visit to the Imperial City, an architectural marvel constructed in the 19th century, inspired by Beijing's Forbidden City. This expansive complex houses numerous palaces and temples, evoking a vivid glimpse into Vietnam's regal past. While some structures have been affected by time, the Citadel and Imperial City retain their captivating historical aura.

Imperial Citadel

Next, venture into the picturesque countryside to explore the final resting places of the Emperors at two magnificent Royal Tombs. Here, you'll encounter the grandeur of royal traditions and stunning architecture.

Embark on a soothing boat trip along the Perfume River, a scenic voyage that showcases the tranquil beauty of the region. Your journey leads you to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a seven-story pagoda that stands proudly by the river, offering further insights into Hue's cultural and spiritual heritage. This comprehensive day trip ensures you experience the very essence of this historically significant city.

Discover Vietnamese culture through its culinary treasures on this street food-tasting adventure in Hoi An. Explore the city's beloved eateries to savor local favorites such as white rose dumplings, Vietnamese pancakes, cao lau noodles, and the famous banh mi. Complete your journey with a mouthwatering serving of Hoi An's chicken rice, a delightful blend of flavors.

Hoi An

After your delicious exploration, wander through the ancient town, soaking in the evening ambiance filled with colorful lanterns and lively activities. As night falls, take a serene boat trip along the Hoai River to witness the captivating Hoi An night view, where floating lanterns light up the waters for a magical experience.

Explore Rural Village Life: Embark on an adventure starting at 8:00 when a local guide meets you at your hotel to kick off your cycling journey through the picturesque countryside. First stop is the enchanting Tra Que vegetable village, where you'll meet a local farmer. Engage in conversation about rural life, farming techniques, and the local way of existence.

As you pedal onwards along small roads, you'll pass by lush rice fields and shrimp farms. The route leads to An My village, known for its charming homes surrounded by vibrant areca gardens. Crossing Cua Dai street, you'll enter Cam Thanh, an area reminiscent of the Mekong Delta, where tributaries of the Thu Bon River converge before flowing into the sea. Take in the stunning scenery of this quaint village, lined with nipa palms along the riverbanks.

Around 11:00 to 11:30, take a break at the U Café, a renowned establishment celebrated for its innovative waste-water recycling system. After this delightful pause, hop back on your bike for the return journey to your hotel, concluding your half-day tour.

My Son Sanctuary: Embark on a journey to My Son Sanctuary, a remarkable Hindu temple complex in Southeast Asia. This site holds immense historical and religious significance, making it a must-visit.

My Son Sanctuary

Once the heart of the Cham civilization, which reigned over Central Vietnam from the 2nd to the 13th century, My Son served as a pivotal religious and worship site for this ancient culture.

Your adventure begins with a visit to Phuoc Kieu Village, a 200-year-old community renowned for its exceptional bronze craftsmanship. Immerse yourself in the rich history and artistry of the area.

Next, set out to explore the iconic Cham Towers, a testament to the spiritual and architectural achievements of this ancient civilization. Witness the splendid legacy of My Son Sanctuary and uncover its hidden treasures.

Experience the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City, where the hustle and bustle never cease. With over eight million residents and a sea of motorbikes, Saigon is a city that thrives around the clock.

Your adventure into the heart of Saigon delves into its rich history, taking you to some of the city's most iconic landmarks. Begin with the awe-inspiring Notre Dame Cathedral, a red-brick masterpiece with twin spires, constructed from imported French materials. Please note that you'll have an exterior view only due to renovations until late 2023.

Stroll across the square to the Central Post Office, an architectural gem completed in 1891. Then, journey to the former Presidential Palace, a historic site that served as the Saigon Government's headquarters during the American War.

Your expedition continues at the War Remnants Museum, offering a powerful and sometimes graphic perspective of the American War through the eyes of the Vietnamese people.

Embark on a time-efficient and captivating journey to the renowned Cu Chi Tunnels via a speedy boat ride. By choosing this route, you bypass road construction, ensuring an early arrival at the tunnels when it's less crowded. Your guide will meet you at your hotel and transport you to Ho Chi Minh City's central pier.

Cruising Through Riverside Tranquility: Just 15 minutes into your speedboat journey, the urban landscape transforms into lush jungle along the riverbanks. Discover Local Riverbank Life: While enjoying local fruits and soft drinks, your guide will offer insights into rural traditions and the unique riverbank way of life.

Ho Chi Minh Evening Vespa Tour with Local Delights： Get ready for an authentic Saigon evening as we pick you up from your hotel. Start at Café Zoom, renowned for its "watch the world go by" ambiance. Enjoy cocktails and appetizers (included) before the adventure on vintage Vespas begins.

You'll weave through Chinatown and District 4, exploring bustling streets, hidden gems, and savoring local seafood and drinks. Your journey continues to District 3, passing Saigon's iconic landmarks en route to Banh Xeo, a local delicacy.

An Dong Market and Chinatown Exploration: An Dong Market offers diverse shopping options, from dried fruits to fashion. In Chinatown, soak in Chinese culture and unique selling methods. A visit here is a window into their world. If you shop at An Dong Market, some vendors may require language assistance, as English isn't widely spoken.

Mekong Delta Private Overnight Cruise - Day 1: Embark on your Mekong Delta journey with an 8:00 AM hotel pickup in Saigon, followed by a transfer to Cai Be. At 10:00 AM, we set sail from Phu An Jetty.

Mekong River

As you cruise on our sampan, you'll witness daily life against picturesque backdrops, with our crew serving tea and seasonal fruit. Don't miss exploring Tan Phong islet on a local rowboat.

Lunch is served onboard. Along the river, we'll stop at points of interest like a handcrafted brick factory and a Cao Dai temple, passing charming monkey bridges and villages.

In Sa Dec, explore the vibrant outdoor market and visit the century-old Kien An Cung, a testament to the local Chinese community.

We'll return to the boat and navigate a lively canal. The day ends with a delightful dinner onboard, and you'll spend the night on the sampan.

Mekong Delta Private Overnight Cruise - Day 2: Day two starts early at 6:00 AM with a visit to the renowned Cai Rang Floating Market. This bustling market is in full swing from 5:00 AM onwards. While enjoying breakfast onboard, the Song Xanh Sampan cruises to the market, surrounded by local barges heaped with fresh Delta produce – a fantastic photo opportunity.

After exploring the market, we continue the journey towards Victoria Can Tho, where we disembark at the hotel's private jetty.

Phnom Penh Highlights - Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum, Killing Fields, Genocide Museum, Russian Market

Start your day with a visit to the Royal Palace and the awe-inspiring Silver Pagoda in the morning. At the National Museum, enrich your understanding of Cambodia's rich history. Lunch is a local treat at a nearby restaurant.

the Royal Palace

Then, embark on a poignant journey to the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, located 15 kilometers from Phnom Penh. This haunting site serves as a somber reminder of the brutal executions of over 17,000 individuals. Many endured interrogations, torture, and suffering at Toul Sleng Prison during the Pol Pot regime (from 1975 to 1979).

Continue to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, formerly S21 prison, which was a school turned into a place of anguish by Pol Pot's security forces. It became the largest center for detention and torture under the Khmer Rouge.

Upon returning to the city, explore the bustling Russian Market, where you can witness the resilience and vibrancy of the Cambodian people as they rebuild their lives after the profound trauma.

Angkor Wat: A true marvel, Angkor Wat is renowned as one of the 8 Wonders of the World. This colossal monument was solely dedicated to religion, an architectural testament that features temples, pagodas, statues, palaces, and chambers. It was a tribute to King Suryavarman II during the zenith of the Khmer Empire. Typically, three days are recommended to explore this vast complex, and Angkor Wat serves as the principal gateway into the world of Angkor. Please note that it's a short 40-minute drive from Siem Reap's center.

Angkor Wat

Angkor Thom: Encircled by an expansive moat, Angkor Thom appears more like a fortress than a religious site. It boasts five entrances, one in each cardinal direction (north, south, east, and west), along with the Victory Gate leading from the Royal Palace grounds. While all these gates once had causeways, today only the south gate retains its water feature.

Ta Prohm: Nestled at the western edge of the Angkor Wat Complex, Ta Prohm's mystical beauty lies in its massive stones entwined by towering trees. This site, initiated by Khmer King Jayavarman VII, was among his early projects to build monasteries and universities. Its enigmatic aura made it a fitting location for the filming of Tomb Raider. It's advisable to visit in the afternoon when the colossal trees offer welcome shade from the sun.

Morning: Banteay Srei - The Citadel of Women. After breakfast, embark on a journey to a hidden gem discovered just last century - Banteay Srei, fondly known as "The Citadel of Women." This remarkable temple, constructed from red sandstone, boasts intricate wall carvings that have endured the test of time. In fact, many consider it to showcase some of the most detailed carvings among ancient temples. While smaller in scale compared to other Angkorian wonders, it has captivated the hearts of many tourists, earning titles like the "precious gem" and the "jewel of Khmer art."

Banteay Srei

Midday: The Land Mine Museum. Delve into Cambodia's history and its journey to address the land mine crisis. Learn about the painstaking process of locating and safely diffusing these remnants of past conflicts. Following this enlightening visit, venture to a nearby village to savor palm candies and rice wine, offering a taste of local flavors.

Afternoon: Ox Cart Ride and Tonle Sap Lake. Embrace the countryside's beauty with an ox cart ride, meandering through landscapes adorned with rice fields, palm trees, and charming villages. Your journey continues southward to the sprawling Tonle Sap Lake, Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake. Here, you'll embark on a boat voyage to Kampong Phluk, translating to the "Harbor of the Tusks" due to its historical involvement in the elephant trade many centuries ago. Along the way, witness the enchanting mangrove forests that flourish nearby.

Evening: Sunset Cocktail on the Lake. As the day draws to a close, relish a tranquil lakeside moment with a refreshing cocktail while basking in the splendor of a lakeside sunset. Afterward, return to your hotel for a leisurely evening.

Exploring Authentic Prek Toal and Its Nearby Bird Sanctuary: Delve into an authentic Cambodian experience with a day trip to Prek Toal Floating Village, a less touristy gem that offers a captivating glimpse of life on the lake. As you traverse the village, marvel at the unique sight of shops, houses, and even a church, all ingeniously constructed atop rafts.

Bird Sanctuary

Journey to the Bird Sanctuary: Your adventure continues as you head to the renowned Bird Sanctuary, Southeast Asia's premier breeding site for threatened water birds. Here, you'll find tranquility within a rustic wooden birding shelter, ideal for observing the graceful birds in their natural habitat.

Savor a Picnic Lunch: Amidst this natural wonder, relish a delightful picnic lunch at a local house, savoring the flavors of Cambodian cuisine.

Return to Siem Reap: In the afternoon, bid farewell to Prek Toal and the bird sanctuary, and journey back to Siem Reap, where your memorable day trip concludes.

Explore Wat Xieng Thong: Visit the Golden City Temple, Wat Xieng Thong, at the northern tip of the Luang Prabang peninsula. This Buddhist temple is a spiritual and artistic marvel, featuring over twenty beautifully adorned structures set in a serene courtyard.

Wat Xieng Thong

Participate in Alms Giving: Witness the traditional Alms Giving ceremony, where monks depart at sunrise. To take part, kneel, place your palms together in front of your chest, and offer alms. It's customary for women not to touch or photograph the monks.

Visit the Royal Palace Museum: Immerse yourself in Lao history and culture at the Royal Palace Museum, located in the city center. Explore royal artifacts, weaponry, statues, paintings, and even the crown jewels of Laos, along with the former king's car collection. (Note: Closed on Tuesdays)

Explore the Morning Market: Experience local life at the Morning Market in the city center. Mornings come alive with locals shopping for fresh produce and delicious street food. Explore the market, then savor a Laotian breakfast at a nearby eatery for an authentic local experience.

Discover Pak Ou Caves: Embark on a full-day adventure with an 8:30 AM pick-up from your hotel. Your journey begins at the boat pier, where you'll board a traditional riverboat for an upstream trip along the Mekong River. Delve into the renowned Pak Ou Caves, home to thousands of statues of Lord Buddha. Along the way, make a stop at Ban Xanghai village, known for its rice wine production. Your return to Luang Prabang will be by car.

Pak Ou Caves

Explore Kuang Si Waterfall: After a scenic drive of approximately one hour (30 kilometers), you'll arrive at the mesmerizing Kuang Si Waterfall. These falls cascade over multi-tiered limestone formations, creating inviting pools for swimming and relaxation. En route to the waterfalls, visit the Khmu minority village of Ban Thapaene to gain insight into their way of life. On the journey back to Luang Prabang, make a stop at Ban Xang Khong village to witness the traditional production of Sa paper.

Experience Luang Prabang's Evening Food Corner: As evening falls, embark on a culinary adventure. Explore the renowned night market and meander through small streets where local vendors offer food buffets and various traditional snacks. Take in the vibrant atmosphere, guided by your expert, who will explain the ingredients and cooking techniques used in Lao cuisine. Sample a variety of local dishes and continue to a popular restaurant for a traditional sindad BBQ. Here, you'll grill your own food right at the table, guided by your expert's recommendations. After dinner, return to your hotel, having experienced the delightful flavors of Luang Prabang.

Your day begins with a convenient pick-up by our friendly English-speaking guide from your hotel lobby in Luang Prabang, Laos.

Arrival at the Elephant Village Camp: Upon arrival, you'll be warmly greeted by your guide and receive a short briefing about the magnificent Lao elephants and our exceptional herd.

Elephant Village Camp

Get Up Close and Personal with Elephants: Elephant Feeding: Engage in a memorable and up-close experience with these gentle giants.

Explore Elephant Village: Discover our elephant hospital, museum, gallery, and even learn about our unique dung paper-making facility.

An Immersive Mahout Experience: One-on-One Experience: Prepare for an incredible adventure as you become a Mahout, caring for and bonding with your own elephant. Each elephant is assigned to one person.

Trail of Falls Trek: Embark on a 2-kilometer trek through the lush and diverse jungle landscape along our exclusive Trail of Falls. Continue the Trail of Falls: Enjoy another 1-kilometer trek along our exclusive Trail of Falls, leading up to the captivating Tad Sae Waterfall. Here, you can relax or take a refreshing swim in its cool natural pools (please note that water levels vary with seasonal conditions).

Boat Trip Back to Camp: Experience a traditional Lao long boat ride as you traverse the scenic Nam Khan River, heading from the waterfall back to our Elephant Camp. Along the way, you might catch glimpses of traditional fishing methods and witness how local villagers make the most of the river.

Our guide will help you transfer from your hotel to Luang Prabang Airport for departure with independentcar/van and guide.