Premium Vietnam & Cambodia
Experience Overview
Immerse yourself in the rich historic and cultural heritage of Vietnam and Cambodia on a 13-day Premium adventure. Uncover the oriental influences of the historic Asian traders, settlers and indigenous people that have made this part of the world a cornerstone for empires and colonies. From navigating the various fusions of east and west in Hoi An, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, to cruising the natural UNESCO World Heritage listed wonderland of Halong Bay and exploring war time monuments, and experiencing one of the world’s great archaeological treasures at Angkor, this journey will share the best of these countries’ history, nature and tradition.
Highlights
- Explore the cities of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh with your local leaders who will help to uncover the diverse mix of influences and layered histories of each destination.
- Taste the best of Vietnamese and Cambodian cuisine during Exclusive Experiences – including dining at a social enterprise aimed at providing vocational and hospitality skills to young workers in Hanoi.
- Soak up your surroundings during two Feature Stays – an overnight cruise in Halong Bay on a traditional junk-style boat and a 3-night stay at a resort in Siem Reap, offering a tropical oasis escape.
- Enjoy two days of fully guided temple tours in Siem Reap, with in-depth insights into the history of these extraordinary structures and plenty of time at Angkor Wat, plus an Exclusive Experience morning accompanied by a private archaeological guide.
- Gain an understanding of local culture during Exclusive Experiences, including a soul-stirring Hat Xam performance, a visit to a working monastery and a tour of a centuries-old pottery village.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2839
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Unknown
Transport: Boat,Plane,Private Minibus
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: TVPHC
Starts: Hanoi, Cambodia
Finishes: Siem Reap, Cambodia
Duration: 13 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (11), Lunch (4), Dinner (5)Accommodation: Hotel (8 nights),Halong Bay overnight boat feature stay (1 night),Siem Reap feature stay (3 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $5,319 ($409 /day)
Itinerary
Xin chao! Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam’s vibrant capital city. When you arrive, you’ll be met at the airport by a representative and transferred to your hotel. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight, where you’ll meet your trip leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, Hanoi is the perfect place to explore on foot. Maybe head to the city’s colourful Old Quarter or check out the Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum, showcasing ancient and contemporary Vietnamese art. This evening, join your leader for a welcome dinner at a beautifully decorated restaurant resembling an old-fashioned Vietnamese house. Dive into the world of Vietnamese cuisine as your leader introduces you to a range of classic dishes made with the freshest local ingredients.
Included Activities:
- Complimentary Arrival Transfer
- Hanoi - Welcome Dinner
- Fast Track Airport Service on Arrival
Accommodation:
- Le Jardin Hotel Haute Couture Hanoi or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Depart Hanoi and travel to Ha Long Bay – one of the great natural treasures of Vietnam and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Board your Feature Stay accommodation for the evening – a gloriously beautiful and traditionally decorated junk-style boat featuring modern conveniences. Set sail in total comfort as unforgettable views of scattered islands and towering limestone karsts slowly unfold in front of you. Explore the bay and sit down for a seafood lunch onboard. Learn about the geography of the region, visit Surprise Cave where your leader will point out interesting rock formations and in the warmer months, maybe swim on Ti Top Island Beach or take an optional kayaking tour. Soak in the stunning surroundings with a candlelit seafood dinner on deck before settling in for a night of stargazing and swapping stories.
Included Activities:
- Halong Bay - Overnight Boat Cruise
Optional Activities:
- Halong Bay - Kayaking Tour (250000 VND)
Accommodation:
- Secret Halong Cruise (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Start your day with a peaceful breakfast and maybe take part in some Tai Chi on board the boat before returning to Hanoi. This afternoon, you’ll take part in a once-in-a-lifetime experience and sit down to a soul-stirring traditional Hat Xam performance. Hat Xam is an art form of Northern Vietnam dating back to the Tran Dynasty. Originally, this was performed by blind performers and was enjoyed by local working-class audiences right up until the late 1950s, when a wave of communism deemed all art forms to be corrupting influences. Today, these performances are rare, but you and your group will be taken to a private club house and treated to an exclusive show in one of the few places where artists still sing acoustically. The performance takes around 60 minutes, and includes possible interaction with guests, so be ready to get involved!
Included Activities:
- Hanoi - Hat Xam performance
- Halong Bay - Tai Chi
Optional Activities:
- Hanoi - Street Food Experience Urban Adventure (29 USD)
Accommodation:
- Le Jardin Hotel Haute Couture Hanoi or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, you’ll get to know Hanoi on a half-day tour with your leader. Discover a captivating city where traditional and modern sit side by side as your leader shares knowledge on the Temple of Literature – an oasis of calm in the heart of town. You'll also visit the infamous Hoa Lo Prison, known as the ‘Hanoi Hilton’, which held American POWs. Today’s lunch is extra special as you’ll visit the fantastic KOTO cafe – a social enterprise that provides hospitality training and experience to disadvantaged youth in Vietnam and offers a creative menu of Vietnamese dishes made with local ingredients. This afternoon you’ll say goodbye to Hanoi and fly south to Danang. Drive on to Hoi An and take in views of lush scenery along the way. The rest of the day is yours to epxlore or chill out in the hotel’s pool.
Included Activities:
- Hanoi - Temple of Literature
- Hanoi - Lunch at KOTO
- Hanoi - Hoa Lo Prison
Accommodation:
- Mulberry Collection Silk Eco or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Set off on a walking tour of Hoi An’s Old Town and discover a blend of traditional treasures and cultural influences from historical traders. Your leader will discuss the city’s history as you wander the pagoda lined streets, visit a Chinese assembly hall, cross the Japanese Covered Bridge, enter the ornately decorated historic house of a former trader and check out a local museum. Hoi An was once a great trading port for pottery, and centuries-old pottery villages still exist to this day. No trip to Vietnam is complete without trying its famed coffee – your leader will take you to a local coffee shop, where you can savour a delicious brew as you watch the hustle and bustle of Hoi An. Maybe try a traditional egg coffee or a refreshing iced coconut coffee. Your afternoon is free for your own explorations.
Included Activities:
- Hoi An - Old Town walking tour
Optional Activities:
- Hoi An - Farm to Table dining experience at Tra Que Village and Mua restaurant (84 USD)
- Hoi An - Private Bike, Boat and Dinner Experience (69 USD)
Accommodation:
- Mulberry Collection Silk Eco or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
The morning is free for you to enjoy more of Hoi An and the surrounding area. Maybe browse the market for silk and other materials or collect any garments that you might have had crafted by the efficient tailors or hire a bicycle and ride along the lanes and out to a nice nearby beach. Your leader will have great recommendations for places to eat and drink. In the afternoon, transfer back to Danang and fly to Ho Chi Minh City. Check into your hotel before heading out for a tour of the dynamic city where daily life plays out on the streets, including a visit to the War Remnants Museum. In the evening – the bustling food stalls at Cho Ben Thanh market might beckon you over with the sweet and savoury aromas of pho and bun mam.
Included Activities:
- Ho Chi Minh City - War Remnants Museum
- Ho Chi Minh City - Half Day City Tour
Accommodation:
- Paragon Saigon Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Head out of the city to the nearby Cu Chi Tunnels – an extensive underground network dug by the Viet Minh and later expanded by the Viet Cong. Enter a widened section of the tunnels with your leader who will help you imagine what life underground must have been like and explain how the tunnels contained hospitals, accommodation and schools, and were used for refuge, storage and as a military base for the Viet Cong. Return to Ho Chi Minh City and maybe spend some time with your fellow travellers and enjoy a final dinner at a local restaurant. Your leader will have some great options!
Included Activities:
- Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels
Accommodation:
- Paragon Saigon Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Wave goodbye to Vietnam today as you catch an unescorted flight to Phnom Penh, Cambodia's lively capital city, where you'll be met at the airport by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. If you arrive early, why not go for a stroll and discover the city’s French architecture or check out the National Museum and its fascinating collection of Khmer craftsmanship. This evening, there will be a second group meeting to meet your new group and local leader. After, join your group for dinner at Malis Restaurant – an upmarket dining spot that’s committed to preserving and serving Cambodia's traditional cuisine. Maybe cap off the night with a cocktail at the Le Moon Rooftop at Amanjaya Pancam Hotel.
Included Activities:
- Complimentary Arrival Transfer
- Phnom Penh - Welcome Dinner
Accommodation:
- Anik Palace Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, you’ll visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, which will tell the story of the tragic legacy of the Khmer Rouge. Then, your afternoon is free to explore at your own pace. Maybe visit Wat Phnom – the temple that gave rise to the city’s foundation in the 15th century – or the Royal Palace and sacred Silver Pagoda. Tonight, perhaps grab dinner with your group or wander the city and soak up the nighttime atmosphere.
Included Activities:
- Phnom Penh - Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21)
- Phnom Penh - The Killing Fields of Choeung Ek
Optional Activities:
- Phnom Penh - Wat Phnom (2 USD)
- Phnom Penh - National Museum (10 USD)
- Phnom Penh - Cyclo tour (4 USD)
Accommodation:
- Anik Palace Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast this morning, you’ll go on a journey from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap in a comfortable private vehicle. Discover traditional Cambodian life at Skun Village and learn about the town’s deep-fried tarantulas and other insects, which the locals consume daily. You’ll also visit Santuk Silk Farm to learn about silk production and its work as a social enterprise, employing local women as artisan weavers. Share a simple, rustic local lunch prepared by the weavers before you continue to Siem Reap, stopping to see historic bridges along the way before arriving at your hotel at approximately 5 pm. This tropical oasis boasts three pools and an excellent restaurant with a focus on wellness. Bright and spacious rooms are in harmony with the lush grounds and feature a veranda, private garden and rain showers. Tonight, head out for dinner and a theatre show at Angkor Village Apsara Theatre, where you’ll watch Khmer traditional dance and dine on Khmer favourites.
Included Activities:
- Santuk Silk Farm Tour and Lunch
- Skun Village Market Stop
- Siem Reap - Khmer Theater Dinner
If you choose, you can embrace a very early start today and experience a sunrise visit to the Angkor complex (optional). After, you'll spend the day discovering the fantastic temples of Angkor. For the first half of the day, you’ll be accompanied by a private Angkor Wat archaeological guide, who will provide expert knowledge and insight along the way. Begin at Angkor Wat – the largest and most complete structure and the only one of Angkor's temples with an entrance facing west. For lunch, visit the Sala Bai Hotel School, where underprivileged local youths learn skills to find gainful employment in the hospitality industry. Enjoy a meal prepared by students at the school, then visit Angkor Thom – the 'Great Royal City' – a temple famous for its series of colossal human faces carved in stone. From here, you’ll head out of town to an ancient working monastery to gain a special insight into the life of a monk and Theravada Buddhism. Meet the monks, enjoy a sacred water blessing for good luck and prosperity and have a red band tied around your wrist to keep you safe in your travels. The rest of the evening can be spent exploring the bars of Siem Reap or relaxing in at your resort.
Included Activities:
- Siem Reap - Angkor Temples Guided Tour
- Siem Reap - Three day Angkor Pass
- Siem Reap - Lunch at The Spoon Restaurant
- Siem Reap - Angkor Wat Archaeologist Guide
Optional Activities:
- Siem Reap - Phare Circus Ticket (18 USD)
After breakfast, it’s off to the Ta Prohm temple, which has large trees embedded in the stone foundations – powerful symbols of nature. Next, visit Banteay Srei to snap some pictures of the temple’s intricate stone carvings. You can head back to the resort explore Siem Reap town, or use your ticket for the Angkor ruins to continue exploring the site. Tonight, enjoy a final dinner in the Khmer countryside to say farewell to your group and Cambodia. Amid a rustic and romantic setting, you’ll sit down for a private meal in the rice fields of rural Siem Reap .
Included Activities:
- Siem Reap - Banteay Srei Temple visit
- Siem Reap - Angkor Temples Guided Tour
- Siem Reap - Private Khmer Countryside Farewell Dinner
Optional Activities:
- Siem Reap - Khmer massage (17 USD)
Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you would like to extend your stay in Siem Reap, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Andrew - Traveled, March 2024
Vietnam and Cambodia, mind blowing lovely people lovely countries. I recommend. I have learned so much thank you intrepid .
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/13/2024
Frances - Traveled, March 2024
The Vietnam and Cambodia premium tour was excellent, a good mix of history and culture, wonderful guides especially Muny in Cambodia I would highly recommend this trip. I fell in love with Cambodia especially.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/13/2024
Aaron - Traveled, December 2024
This trip is an amazing opportunity to see all the highlights of Vietnam and Cambodia in a very short time. Great tour guides, great food, and great experiences!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/17/2024
Andrew - Traveled, November 2023
Wow, what an incredible Vietnam and Cambodian experience! 5 star service throughout with excellent local guides showing the best Asia has to offer. Will definitely rebook with Intrepid for my next adventure!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/10/2023
Jayme - Traveled, November 2023
I LOVED Vietnam and Cambodia - and so glad I didn't choose between the two as they were both so amazing and awe-inspiring in their own ways! Nhung (Vietnam) and Channa (Cambodia) were the most delightful tour guides and went the extra mile to make the trip even that more special!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/13/2023
Amanda - Traveled, November 2023
Our leader Bun in Cambodia was exceptional and really helpful, felt that I got a really good insight into Cambodia all be it a taste. Tuyen in Vietnam was also very helpful and managed to change the itinerary to suit the weather. Congratulations to both of them.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/03/2023
Jessica - Traveled, November 2023
Fantastic trip - comfortable hotels, whilst not sacrificing the ability to get "under the skin" of a country! The group leaders were so knowledgeable and enthusiastic about their respective countries, and even organised for surprises at all the hotels once they found out that we were on our honeymoon! Will be a trip we never forget.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/28/2023
Evelyn - Traveled, November 2023
I travelled through Vietnam and then Cambodia with Intrepid. The itinerary was full of interesting places, fun restaurants and exceptional guides. Everyday had new amazing attractions and perfect downtime for personal shopping, dining and socializing with other your members. I loved the countries, the guides gave us exceptional knowledge of the area. I came away convinced I will only ever use Intrepid as my tour company in the future
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/25/2023
MARILYN - Traveled, September 2023
Loved the Premium Vietnam and Cambodia trip. We had great trip leaders and covered all the main sites in this shorter trip by flying regionally where possible. I especially loved the overnight boat cruise in Ha Long Bay and the kayaking as well as Hoi An. Ideally, I’d have loved another night in Hoi An. I may have to go back!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/10/2023
Amanda - Traveled, April 2023
Our small group premium trip with Intrepid allowed us to authentically & responsibly experience Vietnam and Cambodia up close - while enjoying comfortable travel & accommodation. Our tour guides Ashley & Bun were excellent hosts - professional, knowledgeable, organised and both had a great sense of humour! Will definitely travel with Intrepid again!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/28/2023
Barbara - Traveled, February 2023
I went on the Vietnam and Cambodia premium tour at the end of February/beginning of March 2023. I highly recommend! The accommodations were lovely, the food tasty, the activities fun and most of all, the tour guides, Tu in Vietnam and Pheap in Cambodia, were amazing! I thoroughly enjoyed both parts of the tour, but for different reasons. Vietnam was fast paced and exciting, while Cambodia was a little slower and full of culture. I am glad that I did both countries together as one tour - it was very easy to travel to Cambodia and worth it since I came all the way from the USA.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/11/2023
Manimala - Traveled, February 2023
I would highly recommend this trip as it provided a good insight and introduction to Vietnam and angkor wat. However as there so much more to Vietnam and Cambodia, you will definitely want to come back to both countries and fo a more in depth trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/17/2023
Sarah - Traveled, December 2023
Amazing, well organised, top notch tour. Well researched and full of fascinating destinations
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/15/2023
Dzevada - Traveled, December 2022
Enjoyed this tour very much
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/15/2023
Marianne - Traveled, November 2022
Our Premium Vietnam/ Cambodia trip was more then expected. Intrepid tour guides give you an in depth education on the country. Also some personal experiences that makes the journey so much more.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/09/2022
Andrew - Traveled, March 2024
Vietnam and Cambodia, mind blowing lovely people lovely countries. I recommend. I have learned so much thank you intrepid .
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/13/2024
Frances - Traveled, March 2024
The Vietnam and Cambodia premium tour was excellent, a good mix of history and culture, wonderful guides especially Muny in Cambodia I would highly recommend this trip. I fell in love with Cambodia especially.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/13/2024
Diane - Traveled, May 2024
We had a wonderful trip with Intrepid. Having done our research and understanding its Mission, we were emersed into a part of the world we always wanted to travel -- Southeast Asia. Our guides along the way, Trang and Bun, along with our fellow small group travelers made the trip one full of lasting memories. Everything went as planned -- and already considering where our next Intrepid adventure will take us! You learn quickly that its a small world -- but one with some much to experience!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/28/2024
Ian - Traveled, June 2024
Intrepid always deliver we have never been disappointed the guides are excellent, knowledgeable and helpful at every stage
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/26/2024
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