- Explore the cultural diversity and stunning scenery in the North of Vietnam and discover the mysterious Angkor temples in Siem.
- Visit the most famous sites: Hanoi, Mai Chau, Ninh Binh, Halong and Siem Reap with Angkor Temples.
- Interact with the Thai minority people.
- Enjoy an overnight cruise on Halong Bay.
Introduction
Vietnam and Cambodia are two countries that have so much in common yet each shines with their own unique charm. The Vietnam and Cambodia In 12 Days Itinerary takes you to see unforgettable history, indigenous culture, compelling cities and places of amazing natural beauty.
While 12 days isn’t enough time to take in all there is to see in these two countries, it is a perfect fit for travellers without the luxury of a lot of time, who are looking to see the very best of what Vietnam and Cambodia have to offer in terms of nature and especially, native culture.
- Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi
- Day 2: Hanoi City Tour
- Day 3: Hanoi - Mai Chau
- Day 4: Mai Chau - Ninh Binh
- Day 5: Ninh Binh - Hanoi
- Day 6: Hanoi - Ha Long Bay
- Day 7: Ha Long Bay - Hanoi
- Day 8: Hanoi - Siem Reap
- Day 9: Siem Reap
- Day 10: Siem Reap
- Day 11: Siem Reap
- Day 12: Siem Reap - Departure
Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi
On arrival at the Noi Bai Airport, you are met by your tour guide and driver at the pickup lobby. Enjoy a 45 minutes drive to the city centre (Hanoi Old Quarter) whilst being briefed on the city's most visited spots, culture, traffic and cuisine. At your hotel, check in and rest.
Continuing the day, your tour guide will escort you on a walk around the peaceful Hoan Kiem Lake, to the Opera House, stopping at the statue of King Ly Thai To and Vietnamese Government Guest House and Sofitel Metropole Hanoi. As you walk back to the Old town, visit some main streets before returning to your hotel.
Note: If your flight arrives late in the day or you are jet lagged after a long flight, the walking tour will be moved to the City Tour day.
Day 2: Hanoi City Tour (B,L)
Visiting the city highlights, travelling to French Quarter, Ho Chi Minh Complex, a leisurely walk by the West Lake
9:00 AM: Your tour guide meets you at your hotel for your City Tour. Visit the Temple of Literature which was built under the Ly Dynasty in the 11th century for worshipping Confucius and teaching the royal children. Enjoy a walk in the garden to the city symbol Khue Van Cac. Then visit the World Heritage "stone steles” which show the names of outstanding students. Continue to explore the Quoc Tu Giam which is considered to be the first national university of Vietnam. We visit to one of the city museums (choose between the National History Museum, Hoa Lo, Museum of Ethnology and Fine Art Museum) before having a break for lunch.
In the afternoon, visit the French Quarter – a “little Paris” in Hanoi, with tree-lined boulevards, government head offices and the big square. Visit the exterior of Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum before taking a leisurely walk in the Botanical Gardens to visit the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts where he lived and worked. We see the unique One Pillar Pagoda, one of the city symbols. It takes us 1 to 2 hours to explore this complex, depending on the number of travellers.
Continue to the Quan Thanh Temple, one of the four most important temples in the city, dating back to the 11th century under Emperor Ly Thai To, worshipping the Tran Vu gods, the principal deities in Taoism. We then take a leisurely walk along a romantic road crossing the West Lake with beautiful city views and stop at the Tran Quoc Pagoda which dates back to the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Ly Nam Demm, founder of the Early Lý Dynasty.
Finally, you will enjoy a unique performance of the water puppets which date back to the 11th century. In these shows, the daily life, culture and beliefs of Vietnamese people are described by puppets on water. The show usually integrates a traditional music performance as well. Return to your hotel. Day ends.
Day 3: Hanoi - Mai Chau (B,L,D)
Visit Muong village at Thung Khe Pass, explore the Thai Culture in Lac, Na Phon and Poong Com
8:00 AM: Meet with your tour guide and driver then depart for Mai Chau, on the way visiting a Muong village. Continue to Thung Khe Pass where you see magnificent panoramic views of the valley before arriving in Mai Chau town. Mai Chau is a beautiful rural area 145 km from Hanoi. It has harmonious landscapes, green mountain ranges, rice terraces and White Thai ethnic villages.
On arrival in Mai Chau, check into your accommodation and have a break for lunch. In the afternoon, take an optional 5km bike ride or walk to the rice fields. Discover the culture and daily life of the locals in Lac, Na Phon and Poong Com villages. See the rural work on rice fields, the weaving craftsmen, and meet with locals. Return to your accommodation in the late afternoon.
Note: A private traditional music and dancing show is offered by local people at a cost of $35 for a group. Please ask your guide to reserve this if you are interested.
Day 4: Mai Chau - Ninh Binh (B,L)
Authentic life in Mai Hich village, a leisurely walk in rural countryside, transfer to Ninh Binh
Enjoy a peaceful breakfast before travelling to Mai Hich where you can explore by bike (optional) or walking along the trails and paved roads. You will be seduced by the beautiful landscapes - villages, rice fields, mountains and streams which are all in perfect harmony with one another. Don’t miss the opportunity to interact with the friendly local people who are happy to welcome you into their house to enjoy a cup of tea.
Come back to Mai Chau to enjoy lunch before departing for Ninh Binh. Stop on the way to meet the local people and opportunities to take lots of pictures. Arrive in Ninh Binh in the late afternoon and check into your accommodation.
Day 5: Ninh Binh - Hanoi (B,L)
A full day to explore Ninh Binh at Hoa Lu - Tam Coc - Bich Dong
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel then travel to Tam Coc which is well known as “Halong Bay on land” and appeared in the famous French movie “Indochina”. On arrival at the pier, you will take a ride on a private sampan for a ninety-minute cruise along Ngo Dong River passing through three caves and witness a stunning landscape interwoven with small communities, rice fields, a cemetery and temples.
Continue to the Bich Dong, a typical pagoda in the countryside of the Red River Delta, built in the 15th century. On arrival, you will cross a stone bridge to Chua Ha, from which over 100 steps lead to Chua Trung – the cave pagoda with unique clay statues. You will then hike up to Chua Thuong. You not only have the chance to learn about Buddhism but also to experience incredible views of the countryside.
Enjoy the local cuisine in Tam Coc before going to Hoa Lu, the former capital of Vietnam from the 10 to the 11 century. The citadel is surrounded by limestone mountains and rivers naturally protecting it and making for an amazing, picturesque setting.
On arrival at Hoa Lu, you will visit the temples dedicated to Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang of the Dinh Dynasty (968-80), and Emperor Le Dai Hanh of the Le Dynasty (980-1009) who played a vital role in gaining the country’s independence after it was ruled by China for a thousand years. Both temples were built symbolizing deep respect for the King’s contributions.
As the day ends, transfer from Ninh Binh to Hanoi. Enjoy the journey passing Red River Delta with many opportunities to take pictures of the rice fields and peaceful countryside.
Day 6: Hanoi - Halong Bay (B,L,D)
Amazing sailing route, Pearl Farm excursion, swimming or hiking at Titov Island, great panoramic views
8:00 AM: Pick up at your hotel (in the Hanoi Old Quarter). Enjoy the 3-hour drive from Hanoi to Halong Bay. Your journey will pass the villages and rice fields of Red River Delta. Stop for a drink and the restroom then continue, arriving at the harbour around noon to a warm welcome.
12:30: Check-in with a briefing and safety instructions on board. Start the cruise and explore Halong Bay - one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature.
Enjoy a buffet lunch with Vietnamese dishes served as you cruise through the bay, passing beautiful, quiet areas such as Incense Burner, Dog Stone Islet, Fighting Cock, Soi Sim Beach and Coconut Tree Island. In the afternoon, visit Tung Sau Area leaping rocks and the cultured pearl fishery. See the process of making jewellery, from cultivation to harvesting and sculpting. Or if you prefer, you can do some kayaking.
Visit Titov Beach, especially famous for its clean air, clear water and smooth white sand; a perfect place for you to relax and, if weather permits, have a swim. Or, you can climb the steps to reach the top of Titov Island to enjoy the panoramic view of much of Halong Bay. Return to the boat and enjoy free time while sailing to Luon Bo area, where we anchor overnight.
18:30: Attend the Cooking class on the sundeck – making Vietnamese Spring Rolls - traditional Vietnamese food. Enjoy Happy Hour (buy one drink and get one free). The perfect time for meeting other passengers and relaxing while you watch the magnificent sunset over Halong Bay.
Dinner – Deluxe Vietnamese Barbecue or Set Menu Dinner
Evening activities include: Leisure time to enjoy a chat around the bar, listen to music, watch a movie or a variety of Vietnam cultural films. Simply relax and enjoy a romantic night. You may also try your luck at squid fishing or fishing from the boat. Playing cards and chess sets are available too.
Note : Massage service is available. Please book with Cruise Manager directly. (Please see the massage menu).
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Day 7: Halong Bay - Hanoi (B,L)
Exploring Sung Sot Cave then leisurely sailing before transferring back to Hanoi
06:30: The day starts early onboard with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck. Tai Chi, also called Tai Chi Chuan, combines deep breathing and relaxation with slow and gentle movements.
Coffee, tea and pastries are served in the dining room for breakfast, with morning views of the Bay landscape.
Transfer by tender to Sung Sot Cave and walk up about 100 steps to the cave entrance. It takes approximately 45 minutes to visit Sung Sot Cave, one of the biggest caves in Halong Bay, with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. Return to the cruise by tender. Check out and settle your bill at reception.
Have a buffet brunch and enjoy the Bay scenery while cruising back to the Tuan Chau Wharf.
Transfer back to Hanoi. Check into your hotel and enjoy a free evening to relax.
Day 8: Hanoi - Siem Reap (B,L,D)
From Hanoi, take a flight to Siem Reap, visiting Angkor Temples, enjoy dinner with Apsara Show
Transfer from your hotel to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap. Upon arrival at Siem Reap International Airport you will be met and welcomed by our friendly guide then transferred directly to your hotel for check-in.
Start your visit to South Gate of Angkor Thom, the famous Bayon, Baphoun, The Terrace of Temple Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King.
Then you visit one of the great wonders of the world, the symbol of the heart and soul of Cambodia, Angkor Wat.
Tonight you enjoy dinner with a Khmer Apsara Dance Show. Overnight at your hotel in Siem Reap.
Day 9: Siem Reap (B,L)
Discovering Angkor temples, Kbal Spean, Banteay Srei, Banteay Samre
At 8:00AM: Meet your tour guide and driver at your hotel. Today we drive to visit Kbal Spean, 50km northeast of Siem Reap and 18km from Banteay Srei. The original "River of Thousand Lingas", Kbal Spean is an intricately carved riverbed deep in the foothills of the Cambodian jungle. Visit to the 10th century Banteay Srei Temple, regarded as the jewel in the crown of classical Khmer Art.
Then continue your visit to Banteay Samre, built in the third quarter of the 12th century. It consists of a central temple with four wings preceded by a hall and accompanied by two libraries, the southern example being remarkably well preserved.
Overnight at your hotel in Siem Reap.
Day 10: Siem Reap (B,L)
Siem Reap Tour, Ta Prohm, Pre Rup, East Mébon, Neak Poan, visit Kravan, Royal Bath of Srah Srang and Banteay Kdei Temples
At 8:00AM: After breakfast at your hotel, we visit the fabulous Ta Prohm, embraced by the roots of enormous fig trees and gigantic creepers. Then Pre Rup, East Mébon and Neak Poan. We visit Kravan, Royal Bath of Srah Srang and Banteay Kdei temples.
Overnight at your hotel in Siem Reap.
Day 11: Siem Reap (B,L)
Siem travelling to Kampong Khaleang then back to visit the Old Market
In the morning, visit Kampong Khleang located on the northern lake-edge, about 55 km east of Siem Reap town, more remote and less frequented by tourists than Kampong Pluk. Visitors to Kampong Khleang during the dry season are universally awestruck by the forest of stilted houses rising up to 10 meters in the air. In the wet season the waters rise up to within one or two meters of the buildings. Kompong Khleang is a permanent community within the flood plain of the lake, and surrounded by flooded forest. With an economy based on fishing, Kompong Khleang is significantly larger with nearly 10 times the population of Kompong Pluk, making it the largest community on the Lake.
Lunch at a local restaurant then visit to Old Market.
Overnight at hotel in Siem Reap. Dinner not included.
Day 12: Siem Reap - Departure (B)
Siem Reap free and easy day, transferring to airport for flights to next destinations
Free at your own leisure with time for strolling through local markets or shopping before your transfer to Siem Reap International Airport for departure to your next destination. End of our services!
($*) Prices are subject to change depending on season.
Please contact our Sales Department at info@Vietnamexplorationbooking.com for detailed pricing information.
Inclusions
- English speaking tour guide following itinerary
- All entrance fees and tickets mentioned in itinerary
- Selected accommodations with daily breakfast
- Cruise: Glory Legend Cruise - 2D1N or Similar one
- Boat: Tam Coc sampan boat
- Private transportation following itinerary
- Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau
- Flight Ticket: Flight HAN - REP (Vietnam Airlines - Economy)
- Meal: Breakfast: 11, Lunch: 08, Dinner: 02
- Bike: Mai Chau
- Entertainment / Show: Water Puppet Show, squid fishing, beach swimming, Morning Tai Chi, APSARA Dancing Show
- Cooking class: Halong Bay
- 01 bottle of water per pax per day
- Service Charges and Taxes
Exclusions
- International flight from/to your country
- Travel Insurance
- Personal expenses
- Tipping and Gratuities
- Other not mentioned in the program
Cancellation by Customer
- Cancellation received before 60 days: No charge
- Cancellation received from 30 days to 59 days prior arrival date: 10% of total rate
- Cancellation received from 15 days to 29 days prior arrival date: 30% of total rate
- Cancellation received from 7 days to 14 days prior arrival date: 50% of total rate
- Cancellation received less than 7 days prior arrival date or No show: 100% of total rate
Children Policy
- The rate for children applicable for one child sharing a twin or double cabin with two adults
- For infant (<04 years old): FOC except domestic ticket cost
- 04 - 11 years old without bed: 50% adult rate
- 04 - 11 years old with extra bed: 75% adult rate
- 04 - 11 years old in twin share: 90% adult rate
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Service Details During Your Trip
We’ll immerse you in the diverse cultures of Vietnam and Cambodia by showcasing the unique local flavors. By balancing included sightseeing and free time, we can customize your dream vacation with the things you have always wanted to do.
- Private Local Tour Guide: You will have a fully licensed local tour guide from 'welcome' until you are farewelled at the airport. Your tour guide will help, assist, guide and take care of you in order to make your tour worry-free. Vietnam Exploration Booking Tours offer the best tour guides based on the features of your itinerary and the make up of the group, to maximize your tour while travelling. Having the right guide means you have the best experience.
- Private Drivers and Vehicle: Safety is the first priority for transportation. All vehicles are in good condition and are well maintained with fully licensed and experienced drivers ensuring you are in safe hands. To maximize your comfort and enjoyable experience, cold drinking water and refreshing towels are provided in the car.
- Local Flavor Meals: You don’t worry about meals; we select both restaurants and menus for you. Vietnam Exploration Booking Tours only chooses clean restaurants with pleasant environments for our guests. The menu is also carefully selected to ensure you can try different food at every meal. We will recommend and arrange local cuisine since it is part of the cultural experience while travelling. We can also recommend where to eat so you can enjoy your favourite food when not eating with the group.
- Well-Selected Hotels: Comfort and good value are our priorities when choosing hotels for our guests. We do our best to ensure good rest by the comfort of the mattress and bedding and offering rooms with a pleasant decorative style, user friendly facilities, good service and a great breakfast!
Things to Bring:
Wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for activities such as riding in the sampan, walking, cycling and for long drives. Prepare for hot weather. Bring a hat/cap, sun screen, sun glasses, a swimsuit and insect repellent. The weather is normally hot from May to October particularly in Hanoi, Mai Chau, Ninh Binh and Halong Bay and in Cambodia is hot the whole year round.
You should bring cash with you, preferably in Vietnamese Dong because the banking system doesn’t always function well. US Dollars and Euro are accepted in many places too. You should bring your medications with you although there are pharmacies in both Vietnam and Cambodia, if you do get sick.
Did we hit all the items on your travel bucket list for your holiday?
If not, don’t worry. We specialize in tailor-made tours and can customize this program to create your dream trip. Get in touch with your personal Travel Consultant to create your personalized program.
Don't want the fun to end?
Why not combine this tour with Laos tours, Myanmar tours, Hue tours, Hoian tours or spend a few days in the tropical paradise that is the Vietnam coast? We take care of everything from flights to transfers and accommodation so that you can relax and enjoy your holiday. Explore our other destinations or speak with your personal Travel Consultant for some expert advice on suitable combinations.
