Embark on one of the world’s most famous river cruise routes, the Mekong Delta, travelling between Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap.
On this memorable journey you will encounter the spectacular scenery, bustling river life and remote villages that make up this incredible part of the world. Starting in the vibrant city of Saigon, travel south to Port Tho to embark on the Pandaw ship to commence your river cruise. Cruise upstream passing lush green vegetation, children playing in the river and fishermen casting their nets before reaching the charming town of Ben Tre. Continue to visit various riverside villages and floating markets dotted along the Vietnamese Mekong Delta before crossing the border to enter Cambodia. After exploring the capital of historic Phnom Penh, continue to float down the meandering waterways of both the Mekong and Tonle Sap River before ending the river cruise in Siem Reap.
Ho Chi Minh City – Ben Tre – Chau Doc – Phnom Penh – Kampong Tralach – Oudong – Angkor Ban – Siem Reap
Trip Highlights
- Explore the winding waterways, floating markets and birdlife of the Mekong Delta
- Tour Phnom Penh with visits to the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and National Museum
- Discover the atmospheric jungle temple of Ta Prohm, swathed in creepers and foliage
- In Cambodia stop to visit rural riverside villages, local temples and colourful markets
- Take a local sampan boat through the mangroves and bamboo groves of Ben Tre
- Visit Oudong a collection of temples and stupas perched on top of a mountain
Itinerary
Day 1
Depart the UK
Board your flight to Bangkok with EVA Airlines
Day 2
Arrive Ho Chi Minh City
On arrival in Bangkok connect onto the flight to Ho Chi Minh City. As a small 15th century Khmer trading port, Ho Chi Minh City is today the modern face of Vietnam – a bustling dynamic metropolis of chaotic streets, crumbling colonial buildings, colourful markets and laidback coffee shops. On arrival to the airport you will be transferred to your central hotel.
Caravelle Hotel
Majestic Hotel
Hotel Des Arts Saigon
Park Hyatt Saigon
Day 3
Ho Chi Minh City
Spend the day at leisure to explore Ho Chi Minh City. There are many options available, and your Travel Consultant will be able to advise which experiences to arrange. You may wish to participate in a photography walking tour, coffee culture experience or cookery class, or why not take a walking tour of the city. In the evening you may wish to include the famous food tour by Vespa.
- Breakfast
Caravelle Hotel
Majestic Hotel
Hotel Des Arts Saigon
Park Hyatt Saigon
Day 4
Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta
Meet this morning at the hotel reception at 10:00 for registration and depart for the Mekong port city of My Tho to embark the ship. Upon arrival, settle into your stateroom whilst you set sail and start the fascinating journey up the wonderful Mekong Delta. As you cruise past riverside villages, winding waterways and twisting mangroves enjoy lunch on board. In the evening you will be entertained by a Vietnamese dance group on deck.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch,
- Dinner
RV Mekong Pandaw
Day 5
Ben Tre
Early this morning you will set sail through the Cho Gao Canal, a vital waterway for goods transportation to and from Ho Chi Minh. Constructed by the French in 1876 the canal offers a fantastic insight to life along the water. On arrival in Ben Tre board a local sampan boat and take a tranquil cruise through the mangroves, bamboo groves and fruit orchards. Transfer to a row boat and journey slowly through the bamboo-covered canals before arriving at a village which specialises in traditional handicrafts. This region is also rich in birdlife which you will be able to experience throughout the day. Back on board continue towards Chau Doc.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch,
- Dinner
RV Mekong Pandaw
Day 6
Chau Doc
After breakfast make the short drive to Sam Mountain, the location of the Hang Pagoda, where you will climb 400 steps in order to visit this picturesque temple. After take a guided tour around Chau Doc, a laidback fishing town that is home to Khmer, Kinh and Chinese communities. Visit craftsman workshops and homes and explore the local colourful markets as well as numerous temples. You will also stop at a Cham Village to observe the lives of Vietnamese Muslims and be presented with the traditional lion dance. Back onboard sail towards the Vietnam-Cambodia border passing the stunning scenery and witnessing lively river life. After the border formalities enjoy a leisurely cruise through the Cambodian countryside.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch,
- Dinner
RV Mekong Pandaw
Day 7
Phnom Penh
Established as Cambodia’s capital city in 1867, Phnom Penh is strategically located on the banks of both the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers. Home to a wonderful blend of glistening Buddhist temples and French colonial architecture, spend the day exploring this vibrant city. After breakfast take a morning orientation by cyclo where you will visit the beautiful Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum that is home to a magnificent collection of Khmer and Angkorian artefacts. In the afternoon opt to visit the harrowing Ek Choeung Killling Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum which offer an insight to the Khmer Rouge regime or, alternatively, take a tuk-tuk down to the riverfront and enjoy high tea at the stunning Raffles Hotel. Moor overnight in Phnom Penh where you are able to discover the lively bars and gourmet restaurants.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch,
- Dinner
RV Mekong Pandaw
Day 8
Kampong Tralach
Depart Phnom Penh early this morning and set sail along the winding channels of the Tonle Sap River to Kampong Tralach. Disembark and travel by ox-cart around the riverside villages, temples and local markets to get a real sense of life on the river. In the evening enjoy a cocktail reception around a firepit where you will be joined by the local village community who will present traditional dancing and other charming Khmer culture.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch,
- Dinner
RV Mekong Pandaw
Day 9
Oudong and Silk Island
After breakfast travel to the ancient capital of Cambodia, Oudong. Perched on top of a mountain, Oudong consists of a cluster of temples and stupas, spend the morning exploring these landmarks as well as visiting the Vipassana Dhura Meditation Centre. Rejoin the ship at Prek Kdam before returning to the Mekong. After lunch on board, make a stop at the famous Silk Island which is known for the manufacturing of silk products. Explore the island by tuk tuk stopping at various workshops where you will learn the process of Cambodian silk from worms to weavers. You will have the opportunity to buy fine silk scarves and other handmade products.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch,
- Dinner
RV Mekong Pandaw
Day 10
Angkor Ban
Enjoy a sunrise cruise towards the small village of Angkor Ban which is famous for its traditional community, beautiful houses and incredibly friendly locals. Explore this area which feels like you have been transported back to an era unaffected by the modern world. After lunch onboard, cruise further up the Mekong to visit a local school where you will learn about the Cambodian education system and meet the school children. Continue by road to the enchanting pre-Angkorian 7th century temple of Wat Hanchey, a small Buddhist temple atop a hill that offers spectacular views over the Mekong. You will also have the opportunity to meet monks at the colourful monastery of Wat Nokor. Sunset cocktails are served on deck as you witness the sky dancing in pink and orange lights before the farewell dinner is served on the boat.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch,
- Dinner
RV Mekong Pandaw
Day 11
Siem Reap
After a final breakfast served on the deck, prepare to disembark the ship and travel by coach from Kampong Cham through the picturesque countryside to Siem Reap. The vibrant city of Siem Reap, once the ancient capital of the Khmer empire, is the gateway to the spectacular temples of Angkor. Spend two nights in Siem Reap. This evening you may wish to visit one of the city’s social enterprise restaurants or arrange a food tour.
- Breakfast
Sala Lodges
Shinta Mani Angkor
FCC Angkor by Avani
Raffles Grand d’Angkor
Zannier Phum Baitang
Day 12
Siem Reap
Today enjoy a full-day tour of the magnificent and UNESCO-listed Angkor Archaeological Park with a expert local guide. Discover the incredible wonders of ancient Cambodia and also visit the lesser-known hidden gems of this renowned complex. Begin your day at Ta Prohm, the beloved jungle temple which is best known for the trees and vines growing atop of the temple walls. Continue to Bayon, the temple at the centre of the Angkor Thom city built by the last great king, Jayavarman VII. See the beautiful Terace of the Elephants, the Royal Palace enclosure and 54 towering Buddha faces. As the only west-facing temple, Angkor Wat is best visited in the late afternoon. Discover the extraordinary Khmer architecture and reliefs that adorn this epic landmark. As you exit the temple you will experience the setting sun shining on the Vishnu image, a truly magical sight.
- Breakfast
Sala Lodges
Shinta Mani Angkor
FCC Angkor by Avani
Raffles Grand d’Angkor
Zannier Phum Baitang
Day 13
Siem Reap to the UK
Depart to the airport in the morning to board your flight to Bangkok. On arrival, connect on to your direct flight back to the UK.
- Breakfast
Extending your stay...
Before embarking on your Mekong river cruise, explore more of what Vietnam has to offer. You may wish to start in Hanoi in the north, stopping off as you make your way down south to Ho Chi Minh City. Highlights include the imperial city of Hue and the colourful riverside town of Hoi An.
Add a beach extension in Phu Quoc before starting your river cruise. Boasting crystal-clear and calm waters, white sandy beaches framed by swaying palms and some of the country’s most luxurious resorts, spend a few nights here relaxing.
With so much to see and do, extend your time in Siem Reap at the end of your trip. Include a champagne sunrise breakfast over Angkor, take a street food tour, explore the floating villages of Tonle Sap Lake or travel to the incredible Koh Ker and Beng Mealea temples.
Guide to Price
13 days from £5200 per person
What's Included
- International flights
- Cruise accommodation and sightseeing on a join-in basis with other passengers
- Sightseeing with local English speaking guides
- Hotel accommodation and taxes
What's Not Included
- Visas
- Travel Insurance
- Expenses of a personal nature
- Meals unless specified
from £5200
Travel Information
Getting There
Direct flights from London Heathrow to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are available from Vietnam Airlines. Indirect flights are also available. Thai Airways fly via Bangkok to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City and other airlines including Emirates, Malaysian, Singapore Airlines and Qatar Airways travel via their regional hubs.
Flying Times From UK
Direct flights take around 12 hours. Flights with stops en-route take around 16 hours.
Time Zone
Vietnam is +7 hours ahead of GMT.
Visa Requirements
Visa-free travel for stays of up to 45 days. For holidays longer than 45 days, you can apply for an e-visa that allows a 90-day stay and multiple entries.
Do’s & Don’ts
It is illegal to import, transport, use, store or sell vapes or e-cigarettes in Vietnam. This ban applies to both visitors and locals. If found in possession of a vape or e-cigarette the device will be confiscated and a fine, or more significant penalty, enforced. We strongly advise not to bring or use any vape or e-cigarette during your stay in Vietnam.
Whenever entering someone's house make sure you remove your shoes.
Ensure you do not point your feet in the direction of other people as this is considered very rude.
Money
The national currency in Vietnam is the Dong. ATMs are plentiful and credit cards are widely accepted. Although US Dollars, British Pounds and Euros are all often taken, it does depend on the particular vendor and their chosen exchange rate at the time. Whatever currency you are using, make sure the notes are well-kept and not torn, otherwise they will not be accepted.
Tipping
You will not be expected to tip in most places in Vietnam, yet when you do it is very much appreciated. If you liked the service you received then a generous tip is most appreciated. A guideline for tipping drivers and guides will be advised prior to travel.
Food & Drink
Rice, noodles, fresh vegetable and herbs all play big roles in Vietnamese food making it one of the healthiest cuisines in the world. You will find that each region tends to have its own range of specialities although as a general rule southern dishes contain more spice than their northern counterparts. Whereas the bulk of the restaurants are based in the major cities, smaller vendors and stalls can be found virtually anywhere. And no matter where you go, everyone drinks the national beverage at all social gatherings – green tea. There is still a strong French influence in Vietnam’s cuisine, baguettes and patisseries are readily available, and there are numerous French restaurants.
Accommodation
The general standard of accommodation across the country is high, so no matter your budget, Vietnam will cater for you. Eco lodges, homestays or simple local hotels with basic facilities are typical in rural and remote parts of Vietnam where the focus is on experiencing the location rather than where you are staying. In contrast, cities and towns offer a whole range of accommodation with a selection of impressive high-end luxury and boutique hotels similar to the rest of Southeast Asia. Vietnam is known for its breadth of cruises and vessels vary in size, standard and style. At Ha Long Bay cruises take place in small to medium-sized junk boats whilst in the Mekong Delta smaller sampan-style boats are used for exploring the narrow tributaries and larger cruise boats for extended upstream expeditions to Cambodia. Throughout the coast between Central and South Vietnam you will find many beautiful boutique spa hotels perfect for a luxury beach holiday.
Shopping
With countless street markets, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to handicrafts ranging from lacquerware to textiles. Ho Chi Minh City and Hoi An especially offers excellent value for money when it comes to tailored clothing, fine cotton goods, hand embroidered fabrics and various jewellery and shawls.
Suggested Reading
The usual good sources of information, such as Bradt and Footprint, are always helpful. If you want a more visually appealing guide to Vietnam, then Nguyen Van Huy's ‘Vietnam: Journeys of Body, Mind and Spirit’ carries a number of stunning photographs from journeys through the heart of the country. ‘Vietnam: A Traveller's Literary Companion’ is interesting and Qui Doc Nguyen's collection of stories by various local writers allows you to get an insight into the country's culture through its own folklore and literature. We would also highly recommend a couple of books by Pam Scott, namely 'Vietnam: Hanoi Stories' and 'Life in Hanoi'.
Health
Your doctor is the best person to advise you on staying healthy whilst abroad but current recommended vaccinations are Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus and Diphtheria. Yellow Fever is compulsory, but only if you have visited an affected Yellow Fever area within 5 days prior to your arrival. In some instances anti-malarial tablets may also be needed. For current information on health advice you may wish to visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) website Travel Health Pro on https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/. The Medical Advisory Services for Travellers Abroad (MASTA) website (www.masta.org) is also a useful resource.
Travel Advice
For current information on Vietnam the best resource is the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice) which is a comprehensive resource and updated regularly. We would also recommend visiting the Safer Tourism Foundation website (safertourism.org.uk) before you travel and will be happy to address any questions or concerns you may have.
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