Grand of Indochina Tour 25 Days

Embark on a journey to Cu Chi, located about 20 miles from Ho Chi Minh City. Explore this historic military site, once a crucial stronghold of the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Witness the intricate network of underground tunnels that provided shelter, supply routes, and more. Experience crawling through narrow passageways and see dioramas depicting daily life in the tunnels. Return to the city for a delectable Vietnamese lunch. In the afternoon, discover Ho Chi Minh City's iconic landmarks. Visit the Reunification Palace, witness the historic site where the Viet Cong took control of the government. Explore French Colonial architecture with stops at Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, City Hall, and the Saigon Opera House. Stroll along Dong Khoi Street and Nguyen Hue Boulevard to admire both historic and modern buildings, including the impressive Bitexco Tower. Conclude your day at Ben Thanh Market, a vibrant hub of local goods and souvenirs. Your guide will accompany you back to your hotel.

Join us at Cai Be Jetty at 10:00 am for an unforgettable journey. Step aboard the Cai Be Princess Sampan and be greeted with cold towels and a refreshing drink. Set off on a leisurely cruise along the vibrant waterways of the Mekong Delta. As you sail, witness the bustling river scene with various boats, from fishing vessels to cargo barges. Relax on the sampan, savoring tea and seasonal fruits while admiring the picturesque landscapes. At Tan Phong Islet, hop on a row boat to explore hidden mangroves. Return to the sampan and visit a 19th-century ancient house. Along the way, we'll make stops to discover local cottage industries, including the production of coconut candy and puffed rice. Conclude your cruise at Le Longanier Restaurant, a charming colonial-style villa nestled in a tropical garden by the river. Indulge in a delightful lunch, immersing yourself in the ambiance of Indochinese times. Around 2:30 pm, take a short walk to Ba Bon Bridge, where your personal vehicle awaits to transfer you to Mekong Lodge Resort (or similar), an enchanting eco-resort that seamlessly blends design, comfort, and nature.

Awaken to the lively atmosphere of the floating market and enjoy breakfast onboard. The cruise continues to Can Tho, offering a magnificent sunrise experience on the river. Relax as you journey up the scenic BASSAC River. Upon arrival in Can Tho, board a small boat to explore the bustling Cai Rang floating market, where hundreds of boats vie for space to sell their goods. Embark on a palm-shaded creek tour to observe local houses and lush orchards. At 10:00 am, disembark and return to Ho Chi Minh City by car. Fly to Danang, where you will be greeted and transferred to Hoi An, an ancient town renowned for its historical significance as a major trading port in the 17th and 18th centuries. Experience the preserved architecture and laid-back lifestyle that has endured over the years.

Enjoy a leisurely day exploring the town, relaxing on the beach, or engaging in activities of your choice. Take your time to soak in the ambiance of Hoi An. Overnight stay in Hoi An.

Our knowledgeable guide will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. Spend two hours exploring the landscape, accompanied by our local English-speaking guide who will share fascinating histories and traditional performances of the Champa civilization. Afterward, return to the mini-van and proceed to a local house to learn the art of making rice paper, which you can enjoy as your own handcrafted product later. Savor a delicious lunch at another local house, where you can indulge in cold herbal tea, delightful cuisine, and the refreshing air. Embark on a boat trip along the Thu Bon River, the largest river in Central Vietnam, offering scenic views and a cool breeze. In the afternoon, embark on a self-guided walking tour of the ancient town center. Visit the well-preserved former merchants' houses, the iconic 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, a Chinese communal hall, and the vibrant market. Hoi An showcases a harmonious blend of its old-world trading port charm, with narrow streets and traditional houses, and its modern beach resorts boasting a pristine stretch of white sand. The town's craft shops and skilled artisans, including renowned bespoke tailors, reflect its rich trading heritage. Despite the passage of time and the challenges of weather and war, the heart of Hoi An remains remarkably unchanged from its glorious past.

Enjoy a relaxing morning at your hotel before your private car and driver pick you up. Journey from Hoi An to Hue, passing through the breathtaking Hai Van tunnel and capturing picturesque views of Lang Co fishing village and its lagoon. Arrive in Hue and spend the night in this historic city.

Embark on a fascinating tour of Hue's Imperial Citadel, the seat of power for the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945. Explore the citadel's grandeur and remnants of ancient and modern turmoil, which have shaped its character. Hop on a cyclo (rickshaw) to explore the charming dai noi (Old City) and relax at Tinh Tam Lake, surrounded by blooming lotus flowers and local coffee shops frequented by university students. Visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, perched on the banks of the Perfume River. Admire the 21-meter tall tower, symbolizing the seven incarnations of Buddha. Within the pagoda grounds, discover the Austin car that played a significant role in a monk's protest during the Vietnam War, capturing a powerful image of resistance. In the afternoon, visit the tranquil Minh Mang Tomb, set amidst serene gardens and ponds. Then, explore the distinctive Khai Dinh's Tomb, blending traditional Vietnamese and European architectural elements. Conclude the day by heading to Hanoi. Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, your knowledgeable tour guide and driver will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Hanoi's Old Quarter.

Discover the charm of Hanoi during a full-day exploration. Begin with a visit to the Temple of Literature, an ancient university dating back to the 11th century. Immerse yourself in history and culture as you explore this significant landmark. Continue to Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, his humble stilt house, and the museum dedicated to his legacy. After a delightful lunch, make a stop at the tranquil Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hanoi, situated on the picturesque shores of Ho Tay (West) Lake. Explore the vibrant heart of Hanoi, including Hoan Kiem Lake, the Ngoc Son temple, and the bustling Old Quarter. Lose yourself in the lively atmosphere of this district, with its bustling streets, traditional architecture, shops, and eateries. In the evening, experience the unique art form of water puppetry, a traditional Vietnamese performance that combines music, puppetry, and storytelling in a water-filled stage. Enjoy this cultural spectacle before returning to your hotel.

Enjoy a free day in Hanoi, allowing you to further explore the city's attractions and immerse yourself in its vibrant ambiance. In the evening, at 7:30 PM, you will be escorted to the Railway Station to board the overnight train to Lao Cai. Embark on this scenic train journey and rest comfortably in your sleeper cabin as you travel to Sapa.

Upon arrival at Lao Cai Railway Station at 06:00 AM, you will be greeted and transferred to Sapa. After relaxing and having breakfast at your hotel, you will meet your guide at 10:00 AM for a short trek to Cat Cat village. This charming village belongs to the H'mong tribe and offers stunning views of the valley, limestone formations, and lush paddy fields. Explore the village, interact with local families, and admire the picturesque Cat Cat waterfall. Capture memorable photos and enjoy the serene surroundings of this beautiful area.

Enjoy breakfast and check-out from your hotel by 9:00 AM. Embark on a trek down to Y Linh Ho, a village inhabited by the H'mong minority. Marvel at the ancient terraced rice fields, estimated to be around 100 years old, and capture their timeless beauty. Continue your trek to Lao Chai village, where you will visit the H'mong hometown. From there, proceed to Ta Van, a village inhabited by the H'mong and Giay ethnic groups. In Ta Van, a mini van will be arranged to transport you back to Sapa. Later in the evening, transfer to the train station for the overnight train journey back to Hanoi.

Arrive in Hanoi at 5:30 AM and enjoy a delicious breakfast. At 8:00 AM, you will be picked up and driven to Halong Bay. Admire the serene countryside, farmlands, and the Red River delta during the approximately 3.5-hour journey. Capture photos of the scenic landscape along the way. Upon arrival at Halong Bay, you will board a traditional Junk boat, receive a warm welcome drink, and check into your cabin. Indulge in a delectable seafood lunch onboard as the boat embarks on a 3.5-hour cruise through the mesmerizing karsts and limestone formations. Explore fascinating landmarks such as Mat Qui (Monster's face) islet, But Moc islet, Cap De islet, Trong (Drum) cave, Trinh Nu cave, and visit a floating fishing village to witness their unique way of life. Discover the enchanting Luon cave and savor leisure time for swimming and sunbathing. Enjoy a delightful sunset dinner and relax under the starry sky before retiring to the comfort of your cabin.

Wake up early to admire the breathtaking beauty of Halong Bay's rocky islands as the sun rises. Savor a cup of tea or coffee while enjoying the serene landscapes. Listen to the soothing sounds of nature, including birds singing and waves gently lapping against the boat. Explore the mesmerizing Sung Sot (Amazing) cave and take a refreshing swim at Titop beach. Afterward, the boat cruises back, and a delicious brunch buffet is served. Check-out procedures will be conducted before reaching the harbor at noon. Transfer back to Hanoi for an overnight stay.

Enjoy a free morning until our driver picks you up for your flight to Luang Prabang. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Begin your day with a visit to the National Museum, housed in the former Royal Palace, showcasing an impressive collection of artifacts that depict the rich cultural heritage of Laos. Explore other landmarks, including the magnificent stupa of Wat Visoun, the sacred Wat Aham shrine, the oldest temple Wat Sene, and the striking Wat Mai with its five-tiered roofs. Don't miss the opportunity to climb Phousi Hill, ascending 329 steps to reach the summit. Witness a stunning sunset view of the Mekong River and the gilded stupa of Wat Phou. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Embark on our city tour, marveling at the majestic Wat Xieng Thong, located at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers. Admire the intricate gilded stuccoes and ornate doorways that adorn the temple structures. Witness the captivating mosaic pattern of the "tree of life" on an outer wall of the main Sim. Continue our journey with a scenic cruise upstream along the Mekong River, immersing ourselves in the serene countryside and exploring the enigmatic Pak Ou Caves. These caves house thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues, each with its unique shape and size. On the way, we make a stop at Ban Xang Hai to observe rice wine distillation. Disembark and visit the renowned weaving village of Ban Phanom, where you can engage in the art of bargaining. Take an overnight train to Vang Vieng. Overnight in Vang Vieng.

Enjoy a leisurely day in the tranquil surroundings of Vang Vieng. Rest and rejuvenate amidst the nearby forest, taking in the natural beauty of the caves. It's the perfect way to unwind and conclude the day.

Embark on a scenic drive of approximately 160 kilometers to Vientiane, the capital city of Laos. Upon arrival, embark on an orientation tour of the city, including visits to the Victory monument, Wat That Luang, the Central Market, Wat Sisaket, and the Wat Prakeo National Museum. Overnight in Vientiane.

Fly to Siem Reap and upon arrival, embark on a remarkable journey through the ancient wonders. Begin with the South Gate of Angkor Thom, where an array of imposing statues depicting demons and gods line the stone bridge, symbolizing the churning of the ocean of milk. Explore the mystical Bayon Temple, adorned with captivating stone faces that create an enchanting forest-like atmosphere. Indulge in a delightful lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, witness the captivating beauty of Ta Prohm Temple, where towering kapok trees intertwine with the ancient sanctuaries. Experience the awe-inspiring grandeur of Angkor Wat, a masterpiece of Khmer art and architecture dedicated to the god Vishnu. Marvel at its harmonious design and exquisite craftsmanship. Ascend Bakheng Hill to witness a breathtaking sunset panorama, overlooking the majestic Angkor Wat and the Western Baray. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Embark on a morning exploration of Preah Khan, an awe-inspiring temple complex within the "Grand Circuit." Immerse yourself in the rich history of this 12th-century temple, once a thriving center for thousands of officials and servants. Marvel at the magnificent architecture adorned with moss-covered stones and lush vegetation. Admire the intricate garudas placed at intervals along the outer walls and discover Buddha images decorating the niches above the captivating apsaras. Take a moment to appreciate the remarkable tree growing on the roof of the colonnade, its strong roots firmly planted in the stone. Experience the shade it provides and witness the remarkable power of nature. For lunch, visit Sala Bai, a local school that trains underprivileged children in hospitality skills. Witness their passion and enthusiasm as they learn various aspects of the service industry, from cooking to customer interaction. The visit to Sala Bai offers a glimpse into the future of Cambodia's tourism industry centered around the iconic Angkor complex. As the day unfolds, you'll be captivated by the perfect blend of Cambodia's historic wonders and contemporary splendor. Time seems to fly by as you embrace the cultural treasures of this remarkable destination.

As the morning dawns in Siem Reap, the delightful aroma of freshly brewed coffee and pastries fills the air, enticing your senses. The remnants of the French Colonial era add a touch of charm to the city, while the bustling Old Market emanates the fragrant essence of fried noodles and freshly cooked fish. After a satisfying breakfast, embark on a boat journey to Battambang. Cruising along the picturesque Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, you'll be surrounded by lush countryside and verdant shores. Marvel at the stilted houses perched above the water, and witness the fishing villages known for their resilience and exceptional fishing skills. During the rainy season, when the water level rises dramatically, these villages adapt to the changing landscape, showcasing their remarkable ability to thrive in harmony with nature. Transfer to Battambang and spend the night in this captivating destination.

Embark on a unique and memorable journey aboard the Bamboo Train, a classic railway experience that follows the historic tracks laid by the French. Glide through the countryside on a seven-foot wooden frame covered with lightweight bamboo slats, passing by lush trees and scenic landscapes. The train carts may carry bags of rice, motorbikes, or even monks seeking to reach remote areas beyond the railway. Today, enjoy a full-day guided tour of Battambang, including a visit to a local cooking demonstration where you'll discover the art of Cambodian cuisine. Explore the exquisite temples of Wat Ek Phnom and Wat Banan, each with its own fascinating history and architectural beauty. Delve into the captivating Phnom Sampeau caves and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region. To add to the excitement, take another thrilling bamboo train ride. In the afternoon, you'll be transferred to Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia. Situated along the banks of the majestic Mekong River, the city captivates with its wide avenues reminiscent of Battambang. Admire the prominent French architectural influence that adorns the skyline, a testament to its past as the renowned "Pearl of Asia."

Embark on a poignant journey as we pick you up from your hotel to visit the Killing Fields, a solemn site that bears witness to the tragic events of the past. Continue to S21, also known as the Genocidal Museum, where the horrors of Pol Pot's regime unfolded, leaving an indelible mark on Cambodian history. To uplift your spirits, we'll take you to the vibrant Russian Market, where you can immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and indulge in some retail therapy. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Cambodian cuisine. In the afternoon, delve into the rich heritage of Phnom Penh with a visit to the throne hall, where kings were coronated and resided for a period of time. Admire the grandeur of the king's house and explore the exquisite French architectural marvels, including the Napoleon III Building, which was transported from Egypt. Marvel at the Silver Pagoda, adorned with thousands of silver tiles and golden Buddha statues, some embellished with precious diamonds. Conclude the day with a visit to Wat Phnom, the iconic state temple of Phnom Penh. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, capturing breathtaking views of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, and savor a refreshing drink at the renowned FCC bar while enjoying the sunset.

After a fulfilling breakfast, your private transfer will accompany you to the airport. As you depart, reflect on the unique experiences, captivating culture, and rich history that Cambodia has bestowed upon you. Treasure the memories of this remarkable journey, where you embraced the wonderful differences that make Cambodia truly special.