intrepid travel cambodia and vietnam

Classic Cambodia & Vietnam

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• City sightseeing
• Natural landmarks sightseeing
• Local boat rides
• Shopping and Markets
• Customizable
• Booking Type Instant booking
• duration 20 days
• tour type Small group Request as private
• age requirement 15-99 yrs
• max group size 12
• guiding method Fully guided
• Tour Code BM-3548

• Starts Phnom Penh, Cambodia
• Ends Hanoi, Vietnam
• Explore the amazing Angkor archaeological complex in depth with your included three-day pass, so as well as guided tours, you have the option to return and explore at your own pace.
• Be treated to an overnight stay on a traditional junk sailing boat in Halong Bay – wake up and feel like you’re still in a dream, surrounded by the incredible limestone karsts and turquoise waters of this magical place.
• You’ll take a culinary journey to discover the mouth-watering, achingly fresh delights of Vietnam. From slurping traditional Bun Bo Hue, to digging into a vegetarian feast at a local nunnery, to enjoying a home-cooked lunch with locals in Ninh Binh – your tastebuds won’t be the same again.
• Be welcomed into a Cambodian village for a tour of their agricultural surroundings and enjoy sunset drinks with a local family in their stilt house.
• Visit Save Vietnam Wildlife, an Intrepid Foundation supported NGO focusing on the rescue, rehabilitation and release of Vietnam's endangered wildlife.
• Day 1: Phnom Penh
• Day 2: Phnom Penh
• Day 3: Siem Reap
• Day 4: Siem Reap / Angkor Wat
• Day 5: Siem Reap / Angkor Wat
• Day 6: Ho Chi Minh City
• Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City
• Day 8: Mekong Delta
• Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City
• Day 10: Hoi An
• Day 11: Hoi An
• Day 12: Hoi An
• Day 13: Hue
• Day 14: Hue
• Day 15: Hanoi
• Day 16: Ninh Binh
• Day 17: Ninh Binh
• Day 18: Halong Bay
• Day 19: Hanoi
• Day 20: Hanoi
• Guesthouse (1 night), Hotel (17 nights), Overnight boat (1 night)
• 18 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, 6 Dinners
• Boat , Plane , Private vehicle , Taxi
• An expert tour leader
• Complimentary Arrival Transfer
• Phnom Penh - Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21)
• Phnom Penh - The Killing Fields of Choeung Ek
• Phnom Penh - Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda
• Siem Reap - Leader-led orientation walk
• Siem Reap - Santuk Silkfarm visit
• Siem Reap - Lunch prepared by women weavers at the silkfarm
• Siem Reap - Lunch at Sala Bai
• Siem Reap - Angkor Temples Guided Tour
• Siem Reap - Temple Blessing
• Siem Reap - 1 day Angkor pass
• Kampong Phluck - Visit to kampong Phluck lakeside village
• Siem Reap - Countryside village walk & sunset drink
• Siem Reap - Farewell Dinner
• Ho Chi Minh City - Welcome Dinner
• Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels
• Ho Chi Minh City - War Remnants Museum
• Mekong Delta - Boat cruise with visits to local producers
• Mekong Delta - Home-cooked lunch
• Hoi An - Old Town walking tour
• Hue - Imperial City entrance and guided visit
• Hue - Royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc
• Hue - Thien Mu Pagoda
• Hue - Vegetarian lunch at a Buddhist nunnery
• Hanoi - KOTO lunch
• Hanoi - One Pillar Pagoda & HCM stilt house
• Hanoi - Temple of Literature
• Ninh Binh - Hoa Lu
• Ninh Binh - Home Cooked Lunch
• Cuc Phuong National Park - Save Vietnam's Wildlife visit
• Ninh Binh - Thung Nham Ecotourism Zone
• Halong Bay - Overnight Boat Cruise
• Hanoi - Old Quarter Tour
• Hanoi - Local water puppet performance
• Any international flights to Phnom Penh and from Hanoi are not included in this price. We always recommend that you arrive 1 day prior to your tour starting date.
• Travel insurance is not included in this Classic Cambodia & Vietnam tour. Travel insurance is mandatory to buy. World Nomads' travel insurance has been designed by travelers for travelers.
• Personal Itinerary can be tweaked and customized.
• Protected Travel within your own bubble.
• Professional Access our Travel Specialists' insider knowledge.
• Privacy Enjoy a tour focused solely on you or your travel group.
• Earn USD 133+ in travel credits.
• Best price guaranteed.
• No credit card or booking fees.
• 100% financial protection.
• Carbon neutral tours.
• 25,000+ trip reviews, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.
• Read more reasons to book with Bookmundi less Read less

No additional cancellation fees apply for this Classic Cambodia & Vietnam tour. You can cancel the tour up to 60 days prior departure and avoid paying the full amount, but your deposit paid is non-refundable. No refund applies for cancellations within 59 days of departure.

For any tour departures within 06 November 2024, full payment is required. For tours that depart later than 06 November 2024, a deposit is required to confirm this tour, and the remaining balance will be charged 59 days before trip departure.

Classic Cambodia & Vietnam tour requires that you have adequate and valid travel insurance covering medical and personal accidents, including repatriation costs and emergency evacuation. World Nomads offers travel insurance for independent travelers and intrepid families.

For this Classic Cambodia & Vietnam tour getting the required visa(s) is the responsibility for each individual traveller, as visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. We recommend to check with your local embassies representing the countries that you are traveling to, as part of this itinerary.

• The stories and history shared at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek are confronting and many travellers will find them upsetting. This is an important part of Cambodia's recent history that we feel is important for travellers to know. If you would prefer not to join these activities your leader can recommend some optional alternatives. Some further information on visiting the Killing Fields of Choeung Ekcan be found here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/importance-visiting-cambodia-killing-fields/
• You will visit a number of temples on this trip, and this requires a level of modesty. Be sure to bring clothes that cover the arms and pants or skirts that go past the knees. A light scarf is also a good idea for covering shoulders and arms when it's hot.
• While the pace is generally easy, there is some walking involved on this trip, with walking tours in the downtown areas of each city, as well as a walk in the caves at Halong Bay.
• At the guesthouse in the Mekong Delta, we stay in simpler accommodation than other destinations on the trip. Amenities are shared and may have cold water only.
• Lunar New Year is an annual festival that runs for several days. This is a fascinating and rewarding time to see the country, however you do need to be prepared for some businesses to be closed, tourist sites to be very busy and for transport to be packed as many locals are travelling around the country. Please consider this when selecting your travel dates. You'll find dates and further information in the "Climate and seasonal information" section of the Essential Trip Information.
• Depending on where you come from, the weather in Vietnam might be hotter and more humid than what you are used to. We recommend checking online for what the typical temperatures will be at the time of the year you are looking to travel to see what to expect - this page might be useful: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/vietnam/weather-in-vietnam

• Joining point description
• Joining point instructions
• Important information
• Money matters
• Climate and seasonal
• Your fellow travellers
• Itinerary disclaimer
• A couple of rules
• Finish point instructions
• Europe Tours
• Everest Base Camp Trek
• Italy Tours
• Spain Tours
• Argentina Tours
• Canada Tours
• Sri Lanka Tours
• Chile Tours
• Antarctica Tours

Sign-in to unlock instant trip discounts. Create wish lists and save up to USD 1,500.

Walking Hiking and Trekking

Vietnam & Cambodia Explorer

Vietnam & cambodia explorer.

19 Days Starting in Hanoi and ending in Siem Reap

Visiting: Hanoi, Cat Ba, Ninh Binh, Ninh Binh – Overnight train, Hue, Hoi An , Hoi An, Overnight Train, Ho Chi Minh City, Phnom Penh, Kampot, Chambok, Siem Reap

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

Physical rating:.

15-99 years

Tour operated in:

Trip styles:.

NB: Prices correct on 08-Sep-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour overview.

Experience the very best of South East Asia on this awesome adventure through Vietnam and Cambodia. Enjoy a steaming bowl of pho from a street stall in Hanoi, admire the temples of Angkor and get some insight into everyday Khmer life at a rural homestay. With faded elegance in Ho Chi Minh City, the natural beauty of Ninh Binh and bustling Siem Reap, there's a lot to dazzle your senses on this exploration through South East Asia.

This trip gives you plenty of free time – perfect for the traveller who appreciates a bit of independence. Food crawl in Hue? An extra day exploring the acclaimed Angkor complex? You decide!

Explore the UNESCO protected Ninh Binh - a naturally beautiful area, often referred to as ‘Ha Long Bay on land’, with its winding river etched between towering limestone mountains.

Confront the sobering but important Khmer history, with a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek in Phnom Penh.

A homestay in Chambok puts you right in the heart of everyday life in Cambodia. Enjoy a village walk and waterfall visit and join in for a local dinner and cultural performance at night.

Lan Ha Bay is a beautiful enclave of green waters and strange rock formations. Explore them by boat and kayak, then spend the night on nearby Cat Ba Island.

Not what you're looking for?

People that have booked this tour have also searched for the following:

Day 1: Hanoi

Location: hanoi, accommodation: hotel.

Xin chao! Welcome to Vietnam. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you happen to arrive early, take the day at your own pace and wander the Old Quarter admiring the city’s French-colonial architecture and manicured parks, or simply enjoy some street food. Optional Activities: - Hanoi - Fine Arts Museum - Hanoi - Museum of Ethnology - Hanoi - Street Food Experience Urban Adventure

Day 2: Hanoi

This morning, visit Vun Art center first, a social enterprise that employs people with disabilities to make art pieces with recycled silk scraps. Hear from them about the great things that they do and then follow your leader to visit the nearby flower and flea market to gain some insights into local life that you'll not see in tourist areas. Then enjoy some free time in Hanoi today. Perhaps check out one of the city’s museums, like the Museum of Ethnology which offers an insight into the different ethnic groups and cultures in Vietnam, or the Fine Arts Museum which houses a collection of more than 2000 pieces, some dating back to the 11th century. Alternatively, you might like to wander the grounds of the Temple of Literature, a historical complex in Hanoi. Tonight, you might like to meet up with some of your fellow travellers and try out a local dish like pho or Bahn Mi – enjoy! Included Activities: - Hanoi - Vun Art center visit - Hanoi - Flower and flea market visit Optional Activities: - Hanoi - Street Food Experience Urban Adventure - Hanoi - Museum of Ethnology - Hanoi - Fine Arts Museum - Hanoi - Temple of Literature - Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh Complex

Day 3: Cat Ba

Location: cat ba, meals included: lunch.

An early start is necessary to get the most out of your day. Take a 7.30 am bus ride and ferry transfer to the steep karsts and tiny beaches of Cat Ba Island, arriving before midday – you’ll have a quick stop to stretch your legs en route. The largest of all the islands in World Heritage-listed Halong Bay, charming Cat Ba will be your base for exploring the limestone cliffs and turquoise water that defines this area. Get acquainted with this stunning spot with an afternoon cruise around the bay, enjoying lunch on the boat while floating past the karsts covered in emerald-green foliage. Later, get closer to the water and explore on a kayak, perhaps stopping at one of Cat Ba’s many beaches for a swim. Stay overnight on Cat Ba Island and enjoy the sunset with a cold beer. Included Activities: - Cat Ba Island - Boat trip on Lan Ha Bay - Cat Ba Island - Lan Ha Bay Lunch - Cat Ba Island - Kayaking

Day 4: Ninh Binh

Location: ninh binh.

Today, you’ll travel to the UNESCO protected Ninh Binh. A naturally beautiful area, often referred to as ‘Ha Long Bay on land’, with its winding river etched between towering limestone mountains. Today, you’ll enjoy a cycling tour where you’ll discover Ninh Binh in a fresh way that gets your blood pumping and takes you off the beaten track. You’ll get a chance to explore Hoa Lu – the temple of King Dinh and King Le which were built in the 10th century and dedicated to two the two kings of Vietnam. The ancient citadel once covered 300 hectares of land, however the passage of time has left few remains of this once glorious capital of the Vietnam. Included Activities: - Hoa Lu - Temple of King Dinh and King Le - Ninh Binh - Bike Tour

Day 5: Ninh Binh – Overnight Train

Location: ninh binh – overnight train, accommodation: overnight sleeper train.

Today, you’ll have a free day to explore Ninh Binh at your leisure. You might like to hike to Mua Cave – located underneath Mua Mountain, this culturally significant and naturally beautiful spot is well worth the visit. If hiking doesn’t take your fancy, a boat trip to Trang An might be just the thing to fill your day. A series of limestone mountains, some 250 million years old, tower over lakes, caves and valleys below. After a day of activities of your own choosing, you’ll meet with your group in the evening to take an overnight train to Hue. Optional Activities: - Ninh Binh - Trang An Boat Trip (entrance fee, boat, taxi) - Ninh Binh - Mua Cave Hike (entrance fee and taxi)

Location: Hue

As the former imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue holds the treasures of Vietnam's royal past and is a curious mix of bustling streets and tranquil settings. Packed with historic monuments, Hue is also perfectly located to explore the surrounding countryside, which features stunning scenery, quaint villages and the peaceful Tam Giang Lagoon. The bustling Dong Ba Market offers a plethora of goods and foods to see and sample, and it's a good place to try some of the specialities that graced the Nguyen emperors' banquet tables, such as the banh khoai – a royal rice cake. Here you have a free day, which you could easily spend exploring Hue’s massive walled citadel and the Forbidden Purple Palace enclosed within. Perhaps jump on board a dragon boat and enjoy a cruise up the Perfume River to visit the Thien Mu pagoda, or cycle out to one of the Royal tombs such as the tomb of Emperor Tu Duc. Otherwise, set off on an optional motorcycle tour of the sights in Hue and some surrounding villages. Optional Activities: - Hue - Royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc - Hue - Imperial City Full Day Tour - Hue - Highlights & back streets by motorbike (with lunch) - Hue - Highlights & back streets by motorbike (without lunch) - Hue - Perfume River cruise & Thien Mu Pagoda

Day 7: Hoi An

Location: hoi an.

Continue on your journey and travel to the World Heritage-listed town of Hoi An, where on arrival, your leader will take you on an orientation walk around town. The city was a major trading port with the west from the 17th century onwards, and has various architectural influences from Europe, China and Vietnam. Today, the city is being restored and looks exactly like it did over a century ago. The rest of the day is free for you to do some optional activities or soak up the ambience of the place. You may like to wander Hoi An Market and the street stalls selling paintings, woodwork, ceramics, lanterns and much more. It’s also famous for its talented tailors who can make beautiful items to order within 24 hours, so be sure to check that out! Included Activities: - Hoi An - Old Town walking tour

Day 8: Hoi An

Enjoy a free day to further explore Hoi An. Perhaps take a cruise up the Thu Bon River or learn the secrets of cooking delicious Vietnamese dishes. Visit some of the main art galleries or simply wander around the beautifully restored Chinese shop houses. There’s also the option of cycling around the surrounding countryside – a truly relaxing way to get off the beaten track and see rural Vietnam up close. Your leader will be able to suggest activities to help you get the most out of your time. Optional Activities: - Hoi An - Cooking class - Danang - Marble Mountain - Hoi An - Food Adventure Urban Adventure - Hoi An - Private Hoi An: My Son Discovery

Day 9: Overnight Train

Location: overnight train.

Jump on your train to Ho Chi Minh this morning. This 17-hour overnight train takes your through amazing landscapes in southern Vietnam - grab a book, put your headphone on and go along with the ride.

Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City

Location: ho chi minh city.

Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City very early this morning and transfer to your hotel. Today you’ll have plenty of free time to explore Vietnam’s largest city. Ho Chi Minh City has a busy atmosphere and many French influences. In your free time, it’s recommended to visit the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum. There’s also the historic Dong Khoi Street, and the chaotic markets of Ben Thanh and Cholon (Chinatown). Ho Chi Minh City has a different style of cuisine to its northern counterpart Hanoi, so be sure to get out for restaurant meals and street food with your travel crew. Your group leader knows all the best people in the right places, so they’ll know of some delectable places to eat, for any budget. Included Activities: - Ho Chi Minh City - Orientation Walk Optional Activities: - Ho Chi Minh City - War Remnants Museum - Ho Chi Minh City - Reunification Palace

Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City

Accommodation: hotel.

Xin chao! Welcome to Vietnam. Your adventure begins with an important welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, get out and discover the city's blend of old and new, East and West and sample a baguette or some of the excellent coffee on offer – both markers of the city's strong French influence. Equally essential are visits to the Reunification Palace (the site of South Vietnam's surrender in April 1975) and the War Remnants Museum. As there isn’t much time to explore Ho Chi Minh City on this tour, it’s highly recommended you spend a day or two extra to get a real taste of this busy city. After your meeting, why not get a taxi and head to the night markets at Ben Thanh – teeming with good food and local handicrafts, it’s a perfect start to your adventure. Optional Activities: - Ho Chi Minh City - War Remnants Museum - Ho Chi Minh City - Reunification Palace

Day 12: Phnom Penh

Location: phnom penh.

Travel by local bus through rural Vietnam and Cambodia this morning, making your way to Phnom Penh. With two border crossings and a stop for lunch, this is a long travel day, so maybe have a good book or a road trip game handy. Cambodia's capital city is set on a major junction of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers and boasts some fine examples of French-inspired architecture. You may want to take a cyclo tour of the city's sights when you arrive, which includes the central market, US Embassy, Wat Phnom, Mekong Riverfront, independence monument and Royal Palace. If you're in the mood for shopping, stop in at the art deco Psar Thmei (Central Market) or travel out to Psar Tuol Tom Pong (the Russian Market) for the best range of local souvenirs. Optional Activities: - Phnom Penh - Cyclo tour

Day 13: Phnom Penh

Take a day to explore the swirl and bustle of Phnom Penh. Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. These serve as sobering reminders of the violent rule of the Khmer Rouge. Here you can learn more about this confronting but important chapter in history – if you'd rather not visit these sites, simply let your leader know. Otherwise, the rest of the day is free for you to explore. You could visit Wat Phnom – a Buddhist temple shrouded in myth – or the National Museum and its excellent Khmer collection. In the evening, maybe head out with your group for a drink overlooking the Tonle Sap River. Included Activities: - Phnom Penh - Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) - Phnom Penh - The Killing Fields of Choeung Ek Optional Activities: - Phnom Penh - Wat Phnom - Phnom Penh - National Museum

Day 14: Kampot

Location: kampot, accommodation: guest house.

Take a local train to Kampot this morning – one of Cambodia's most attractive old towns. Famous for its pepper, Kampot supplied most French restaurants with this vital spice for many years during colonial rule. Today, the region is more renowned for its plantations of durian – a spiky, pungent fruit that you’ll either love or hate – try it and see! Follow your leader for a stroll along the riverside and observe the French architecture, learn about the local heritage buildings and maybe have a cup of coffee on the veranda of one of the riverside restaurants to admire the view of the Bokor Mountain Range. A traditional massage is also highly recommended here from the local enterprise Seeing Hands – one of the most enjoyable ways of supporting a local charity, you’ll change into loose cotton pyjamas and then put yourself in the capable hands of one of the blind masseurs. In a country with no social security, the training and support provided by the centres allow blind Cambodians to support themselves. This afternoon, head to the dock at the Kampong Bay River and board a local boat for a serene cruise with a stunning view of the sun setting over Bokor Mountain. Included Activities: - Kampot - Sunset cruise (join-in) - Kampot - Heritage walking tour

Day 15: Kampot

Enjoy a free day in the chilled-out town of Kampot today. For a unique photo opportunity, head to the centre of the town, where a giant durian statue sits smack in the middle of a roundabout. Maybe browse for some goodies to take home at the covered market. The nearby countryside is also a delight to explore – among fields of Kampot pepper and rice, there’s a salt field and limestone cave. Inside the cave sits the small 7th-century brick temple Phnom Chhnork. Optional Activities: - Kampot - Kayak rental fee - Kampot - Phnom Chhnork Entry Fee - Kampot - Salt Field - Free

Day 16: Chambok

Location: chambok, accommodation: homestay, meals included: dinner.

This morning, take a private vehicle into rural Cambodia to the village of Chambok in the Kampong Speu region. There's a lot of natural beauty to discover here and the Chambok community is renowned for its ecotourism. A member of the Chambok community will take you on a village walk when you arrive and will be happy to chat about their community’s history, lifestyle and local ecotourism projects. Meet the families you’ll spend the night with and settle into your homestay before walking around the village and exploring at your own pace. Maybe head to a nearby waterfall – if it's warm enough, you may even opt for a swim! Tonight, head to the community centre to enjoy a traditional Khmer dinner prepared by women from the community. You'll also be treated to a traditional dance performance – tonight is an unforgettable local experience! Included Activities: - Chambok - Traditional dancing - Chambok - Waterfall hike - Chambok - Homestay and activities - Chambok - Khmer Dinner

Day 17: Siem Reap

Location: siem reap, meals included: breaksfast.

Today, take a private transfer to Siem Reap – this small but expanding town is the gateway to the famed Angkor archaeological site. This is the most popular destination for travellers in all of Cambodia (maybe even all of Southeast Asia!). When you arrive, maybe explore the markets – a great place to shop or try some cheap, delicious street food. Tonight, you’re free to fine the best spot for a local feed – your leader is always on hand with great recommendations.

Day 18: Siem Reap

Today, you’ll visit the world-famous Angkor complex with your local guide. These temples were built between the 9th and 13th centuries when the Khmer Empire was the pre-eminent influence in Southeast Asia. The temples were believed to represent the cosmic world and were set in perfect balance, symmetry and composition. The intricately carved bas-reliefs and architectural designs are mind-blowing, and there are some spectacular photo opportunities at any time of day! The ruins are scattered over some 160 square km, but the main cluster of temples are close to Siem Reap. You'll have plenty of time to fully appreciate the great archaeological sites of Angkor Wat, the Bayon and the jungle-covered Ta Prohm, among others. Included Activities: - Siem Reap - One day Angkor Pass - Siem Reap - Angkor Temples Guided Tour Optional Activities: - Siem Reap - Three day Angkor Pass

Day 19: Siem Reap

With no activities planned for today, you can depart the accommodation at any time. That doesn’t mean your adventure has to end! If you wish to spend some extra time in Siem Reap, just speak to your booking agent. Optional Activities: - Siem Reap - Khmer Cooking Class - Siem Reap - Angkor Zipline Silver Tour (Gold Course) - Siem Reap - Angkor Zipline Silver Tour (Silver Course)

What's Included

Accommodation Guesthouse (4 nights), Homestay (1 night), Hotel (11 nights), Overnight sleeper train (2 nights)

Hanoi - Vun Art center visit

Hanoi - Flower and flea market visit

• Cat Ba Island - Boat trip on Lan Ha Bay
• Cat Ba Island - Lan Ha Bay Lunch
• Cat Ba Island - Kayaking

Hoa Lu - Temple of King Dinh and King Le

Ninh Binh - Bike Tour

• Hoi An - Old Town walking tour
• Ho Chi Minh City - Orientation Walk
• Phnom Penh - Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21)
• Phnom Penh - The Killing Fields of Choeung Ek

Kampot - Sunset cruise

Kampot - Heritage walking tour

• Chambok - Traditional dancing

Chambok - Waterfall hike

• Chambok - Homestay and activities
• Chambok - Khmer Dinner
• Siem Reap - One day Angkor Pass
• Siem Reap - Angkor Temples Guided Tour

1 breakfasts, 1 lunches, 1 dinners

Kampot - Sunset cruise (join-in)

What's Not Included

Tipping and Gratuities

International Travel

Included Activities

• Kampong Chhnang - Pottery Demonstration
• OVERNIGHT SLEEPER TRAINS IN VIETNAM:
• Compartments will be 4 berth to 6 berth depending on seasonal variations and the group configuration. We aim to secure 4 berth compartments where possible. A sheet, pillow and blanket are provided, although some travellers prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet. Passengers of different genders may be required to share a compartment and there will be occasions where you'll be sharing with local travellers or travellers who are not part of your group. On occasion the group may be split between several carriages, however your leader will coordinate and give further information on the trip.

Accommodation

• DAY ROOMS & EARLY CHECK IN
• Please note we include use of day rooms on Days 10 in Ho Chi Minh City. These rooms are provided for shared group use after the overnight train journey. We have some days where we arrive at our destination before check in time, and as this is a budget tour, a day room is not included. If you have booked a single supplement whilst on tour, it will not apply to these day rooms. Your leader may be able to assist you in booking a room for your use (depending on availability) until our group rooms become available for an additional charge. Please talk to your leader at the Group Meeting if this is a service you would like to request.
• Most of the accommodation on this trip is in hotels (mostly 2 to 3-star). Facilities are often basic, with some properties not having a continuous supply of hot water on occasion. All rooms are either fan cooled or with air conditioning and twin share with private facilities unless stated otherwise in the daily itinerary. Double beds are not widely available in South East Asia.
• WINDOWLESS ROOMS:
• Some hotels in South East Asia have windowless rooms, or windows that don't necessarily have a view. This is often due to high population density in large cities, however local building standards also do not require rooms to have windows. We do request rooms with windows, however they aren't always available.

Important Information

• 1. Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport) for train tickets. Ticketing fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket.
• 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Days 5,9 (Overnight sleeper train) and Days 16 (Homestay) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

Mode of Transport

Check out our q&as, is this trip right for you.

Accommodation on this tour is basic – a combination of simple hotels, guesthouses and homestays, where you'll be spending a night with a local family. While the homestay accommodation is shared and basic, this is a great opportunity to connect with the local people (and enjoy delicious home-cooked meals!). Read more about the experience here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/cambodia-homestay-experience We cover a lot of distance on this trip, including on overnight trains. A 19-day trip with a lot of public transport might feel a little taxing now and then. There are some long stretches of travel involved, so be prepared for some bumpy roads (and occasional delays). It's all part of the adventure! For more about what an overnight train is like, see our blog post here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/what-to-expect-on-an-overnight. There is a limited amount of time included in Hanoi. Please consider booking some extra time before and after your trip if you would like more time to explore each of these cities

What policies are in place for Covid-19?

Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

How long has the tour company been trading?

Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

What ethical travel credentials does the tour company have.

Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Just leaving a review to....

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

I just completed my first...

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

I have just come back...

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

I have travelled with Intrepid...

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

I recently went on an...

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

North American Adventure

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

I have just completed a...

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Cambodia Discovery

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

Explore Southern Africa

Best trip ever was, 2 things I didn't like the black mamba stop was wasting day and village ,so 2 night I think was just wasting, I could do 2 days in Kruger, and one more night in delta

We had a fantastic time...

We had a fantastic time on the Botswana Highlights tour recently. We chose Intrepid because it seemed to suit what we wanted - well planned itinerary, small group, comfortable without being overly luxurious (and pricey), and supportive of the local community and environment. We weren't disappointed, and as we met with other like-minded travellers then we all had a great time. We are already planning our next Intrepid tour - maybe Vietnam & Cambodia :-)

1 Select your preferred date

Thursday - Monday

Operator discount: -$254

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$39

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$48

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$49

2 Finding available rooms...

What are travellers saying about tourhub.

Excellent tour company with quick service and support. We loved that there is 100% refund if you had to change anything as long as your within certain time limits. A very professional company with a huge selection of different tours and several dates to choose from.

The staff at TourHub were very responsive to all of my questions and more! They provided me with all the information I needed to book our trip in a very short period of time. I am very impressed with this company and looking forward to our tour in 2025!

I have never been much of a tour person, but this company offers so many options! I love the fact that they consolidate many options so that you have all the adventures in one location.

Customer service was prompt in responding to any questions I had, and offering suggestions on tour options. Looking forward to our adventure in September!

I love that each destination and hotel accommodation is listed. Makes planning or even deciding to take the trip so much easier. Each time I emailed a question, I got a response right away. So far, I'm very impressed and looking forward to the trip that we booked for next year.

I just heard about tourhub. What a fantastic collection of holidays. I booked a holiday to Morocco and had a few questions, for which I received prompt and useful responses. Would highly recommend

Book with Confidence

Free date changes.

Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

Transfer as credit to Future Tours

Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

Low Deposit

Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

Cancellation Policy

We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Terms and Conditions

Click here to read our full terms and conditions

Why book with tourhub?

Safe & secure.

Your money is held in a dedicated client account until you travel.

100% Guaranteed Refunds if your trip is cancelled.

The safest way to make overseas, multi-currency payments.

Guaranteed Best Value

Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.

No cancellation or amendment fees from tourhub.

(Operator terms may apply)

Expert Knowledge

Reliable & unbiased advice from travel experts.

Direct contact with the tour operator via our messaging service.

Inspiration & advice from a community of 6000+ real travellers, influencers & content creators.

Trusted Service

Official partners & licensed agents of 1000+ tour operators worldwide.

Don't just take our word for it...

"Tourhub: Friendliness, Professionalism & Integrity I would happily give tourhub a 6* review if I could..."

Similar Tours

Travel guru features, our reviews.

Join our mailing list to receive the latest updates and travel inspiration.

Classic Cambodia & Vietnam

Health Safety +

• Explore the amazing Angkor archaeological complex in depth with your included three-day pass, so as well as guided tours, you have the option to return and explore at your own pace.
• Be treated to an overnight stay on a traditional junk sailing boat in Halong Bay – wake up and feel like you’re still in a dream, surrounded by the incredible limestone karsts and turquoise waters of this magical place.
• You’ll take a culinary journey to discover the mouth-watering, achingly fresh delights of Vietnam. From slurping traditional Bun Bo Hue, to digging into a vegetarian feast at a local nunnery, to enjoying a home-cooked lunch with locals in Ninh Binh – your tastebuds won’t be the same again.
• Be welcomed into a Cambodian village for a tour of their agricultural surroundings and enjoy sunset drinks with a local family in their stilt house.
• Visit a restaurant with a difference and enjoy a special lunch at KOTO restaurant – an Intrepid Foundation supported program that teaches disadvantaged youth hospitality skills.

What's this trip about?

Travel themes.

• High Adventure
• Local Immersion & Homestays

Destinations

Attractions.

• Ho Chi Minh
• Killing Fields
• Mekong Delta
• Historic sightseeing

Trip includes

• Complimentary Arrival Transfer
• Phnom Penh - Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21)
• Phnom Penh - The Killing Fields of Choeung Ek
• Phnom Penh - Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda
• Siem Reap - Leader-led orientation walk
• Siem Reap - Lunch at Sala Bai
• Siem Reap - Three day Angkor Pass
• Siem Reap - Angkor Temples Guided Tour
• Siem Reap - Temple Blessing
• Siem Reap - Banteay Srei Temple visit
• Siem Reap - Village visit
• Siem Reap - Sunrise at Angkor Wat
• Ho Chi Minh City - Welcome Dinner
• Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels
• Ho Chi Minh City - War Remnants Museum
• Mekong Delta - Boat cruise with visits to local producers
• Mekong Delta - Home-cooked lunch
• Hoi An - Old Town walking tour
• Hue - Imperial City entrance and guided visit
• Hue - Royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc
• Hue - Thien Mu Pagoda
• Hanoi - KOTO lunch
• Hanoi - One Pillar Pagoda & HCM stilt house
• Hanoi - Temple of Literature
• Ninh Binh - Hoa Lu
• Ninh Binh - Van Long Nature Reserve Boat Trip
• Ninh Binh - Home Cooked Lunch
• Ninh Binh - Thung Nham Ecotourism Zone
• Halong Bay - Overnight Boat Cruise
• Hanoi - Old Quarter Tour
• Hanoi - Local water puppet performance

Popular Trips

Vietnam & Cambodia Real Food Adventure

Premium Cambodia & Vietnam in Depth

Best of Vietnam & Cambodia

Premium Vietnam & Cambodia

Epic Vietnam to Cambodia

With no activities planned for today, your adventure comes to an end after breakfast. If you would like to spend some more time in Hanoi, we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Dates & Availability

Check current availability, prices, specials & more.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Intrepid Travel Reviews & Ratings

The vietnam portion of the trip was.

The Vietnam portion of the trip was excellent (I filled out a separate feedback form for Cambodia, also excellent). Our guide, Thanh, was very knowledgeable, open, ...

Other Intrepid Travel Reviews

Michele Twigden

Completed 3 trips with Intrepid this…

Completed 3 trips with Intrepid this year. A prior last year. The Leaders are well organized, informative and fun. Travelling inland in Greece and the Greek Island...

jasonemeraldrealestate.com.au

The intrepid group were excellent to…

The intrepid group were excellent to work with and were very helpful at all times and made organising the trip a breeze. This was an excellent trip, and was enjoyed ...

Michael Campbell

Awful waste of time and money.

I’m aware that Intrepid responds to reviews, so here’s my updated take. I paid approximately $1,800 USD for a 9-day trip to Costa Rica. However, between the arrival...

See all Other Intrepid Travel reviews

Travelers also viewed

Vietnam & Cambodia Explorer

Epic south east asia.

Premium South East Asia in Depth

South East Asia Loop

Essential Cambodia

Tour operator, intrepid travel, the intrepid travel experience.

If you’re looking for adventure, you’ve come to the right place. For the past 25 years, we’ve been taking small groups of travelers on unforgettable trips around the world. What makes them unforgettable? Take a look for yourself and discover the Intrepid experience.

Our travelers have three styles of tour to choose from: Basix, Original and Comfort. Each has a different level of inclusions and accommodation, but all have unforgettable real life experiences as part of the package. Travellers can also choose themed trips, such as Family, Sailing or Food, to suit their interests.

Our group size has an average of just ten travellers, which allows us to get off the beaten track, use local accommodation and transport, and really get to know the culture. It also ensures we are contributing to the local economy; by choosing local suppliers we were able to keep AUD 60 million in local economies in 2012. We’re also working hard to reduce our carbon footprint and were the first in our sector to introduce carbon offset trips. This, along with our many corporate sustainability activities, has meant we’re one of the travel industry’s leaders in responsible travel.

Why Intrepid?

•   Small groups - average of 10 people per trip
•   Sustainability - pioneers for the industry
•   Local leaders - authentic perspectives
•   Local transport - get close and personal
•   Local accommodation - experience real living
•   Intrepid travelers - like-minded companions 

Intrepid Travel has come a long way since its beginnings in 1989. From two university friends, a typewriter and a kitchen desk, it is now a proud member of The Intrepid Group, taking over 100,000 travelers every year.

Intrepid Travel is part of The Intrepid Group of companies, alongside leading small group adventure companies Peregrine, Urban Adventures and PEAK DMC.

Despite growing into a global business with over 1,000 staff based all over the world and over 800 different trips across every continent, we’ve remained devoted to the same grassroots values and responsible travel philosophies that we had at the very beginning.

On every trip we operate and in every interaction we have with a client, supplier or local, we live our core values everyday:

• Integrity – Doing the right thing
• Responsible – Think global, act local
• Growth – Stakeholders in our own success
• Innovation – Thriving on new ideas and embracing change
• Fun – It’s engrained into who we are and what we do
• Passion – We are inspired by the work we do and the trips we offer

Tweets by Intrepid_Travel

Associations

About Travelstride

Find your perfect trip, travel confidently, accommodation, transportation & flights, transportation & flights.

Finish point

• Lenid Hotel
• 54 Tho Nhuom
• Phone: +84 2438566699

Alternate Finish point

• For trips departing on the following dates, use this finish point.
• 08 Nov 2024 (TKKHC241108)
• Foreign Relations Hotel
• 33C Pham Ngu Lao, Hoan Kiem

Become a member

• Save up to $700 per person
• Access members-only specials
• Personalize trip recommendations

Cycle South East Asia

Tour companies, things to do, itineraries.

Tour Review: Intrepid Travel Vietnam Express Southbound

Traveling in Vietnam with Intrepid Travel on their Vietnam Express Southbound 10-day tour is everything that’s terrific and transformative about travel.

This was my 2nd Intrepid tour, completely different from the incredible  Okavango Experience , but just as unforgettable, educational, gratifying, and culturally immersive in a way that is unique to Vietnam and the travelers and guide I was lucky enough to explore and experience with.

In this guide, I’ll not only share my complete review of my time with Intrepid Travel in Vietnam, but I’ll also do my best to explain the intangibles about why small group travel with Intrepid is so special.

Spoiler Alert! If you’re considering the  Intrepid Travel Vietnam Express Southbound  tour, don’t hesitate. Book it and go with an open heart and curious mind for a not-to-be-forgotten trip!

This 10-day Vietnam Express Southbound tour starts in the north, in Vietnam’s capital city of Hanoi, and ends in Ho Chi Minh City in the south. 

In between, the tour itinerary takes you to popular spots in Vietnam including Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, and the Mekong Delta. And, in a way that’s unique to Intrepid, you not only see those must-see sights but also learn about the country’s history, culture, and experience local daily life.

It’s that last part about the local culture, daily life, and the people you meet along the way that’ll flash through your mind long after your trip to Vietnam is done.

What Happens While Traveling in Vietnam with Intrepid

It would be easy to share a list of all the popular sights and activities you’ll see and do while in Vietnam with Intrepid. But I’d be leaving out so many moments that make this trip so much more than just another Vietnam sightseeing trip!

When you travel with Intrepid, you get to mix must-see sights, off-the-beaten-path stops, and interactions with locals you wouldn’t be able to have otherwise had you traveled independently.

Intrepid’s Vietnam Express Southbound Itinerary

No doubt if you’re considering this tour, you’ve read through the day-by-day itinerary on Intrepid’s website. I’ve put together this video to show how memorable just these highlights are all by themselves.

But, there are so many other unforgettable moments you don’t see in the trip outline. These moments are unique to your group and your guide but give a glimpse of how amazing it is to travel with a company like Intrepid that wholeheartedly believes in the powerful impact of authentic local experiences. What You Don’t See

I purposefully didn’t include activities I did outside of the tour. However, if you look at the Intrepid itinerary, you’ll notice the first day doesn’t start until 6 pm and the last day is open for the group to do independent activities or depart as warranted by their travel plans.

I took these opportunities to see more of Vietnam. Before the 6 pm meeting on Day 1, I joined the Urban Adventures Hanoi Morning Highlights Tour and then used the afternoon to wander independently and visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex and Stilt House. It was great to have this time to do some sightseeing in Hanoi.

On the last day, I went with Urban Adventures to tour the Cu Chi Tunnels just outside Ho Chi Minh City…an absolute must! The tunnels and how they were built and used are utterly fascinating. Back in the city just after midday, I independently visited Independence Palace and did some more shopping at the Ben Thanh Market.

Practical Details

If you’ve never traveled with a tour before or with Intrepid, you’re probably wondering about some of the logistics, as well as who you’ll be traveling with.

Before You Go:

Intrepid requires travel insurance for all travelers no matter which tour it is.  World Nomads  provides travel insurance for all types of trips, travelers, and budgets.

Vietnam requires U.S. residents to get a Visa to enter the country. Luckily, it’s an easy process that can be done online. You can apply for one at the  Vietnam e-Visa web portal . You have to upload a photo of yourself and pay $25. After that, it takes about 3 business days to get your e-Visa. It’s valid for a single entry 30-day Vietnam Visa.

Southeast Asia has a hot, humid climate. And, countries like Vietnam also dress conservatively. This combination means you want lightweight, loose-fitting clothing with enough skin coverage. Moisture-wicking fabric is also great for travel because when you want to wash it out, it dries quickly.

Specifically for this Intrepid Vietnam tour, pack a  sleep sheet  (or an old sheet you can use and leave behind to lighten your bag) and this  compressible pillow  for the train from Hanoi to Hue like I did. I slept comfortably on a clean sheet! And, what I love about that pillow is it packs down small but expands to be nearly the size of a regular pillow. (I took it on my other incredible Intrepid trip to camp in the  Okavango Delta , too!)

On the Trip:

Who is the guide.

Intrepid hires and works with guides who are locals that live in and are experts on the places visited on the tour itinerary. By doing so, it’s a win-win for you, the traveler, and the local community.

First, some of the money you pay for the tour pays these guides. Enough said, right? No matter where we are from, we all know how empowering and impactful a job is for the individual, their families, and communities.

Along with this, you, the traveler, get a guide with first-hand cultural and location-based knowledge who inevitably opens doors for an immersive, authentic look at daily life.

Nam was the guide for our group and not only could he talk about the history of a specific temple or make sure the group allowed enough time to get from one place to another, but he also recommended local places to eat, showed us how to smoke that bamboo tube pipe you see people passing in Hanoi, and stopped in the countryside at a burial site to explain more about the rituals and beliefs Vietnamese have about death and their ancestors.

Who travels with Intrepid?

From 20s-70s, hailing from all over the world, Intrepid travelers are adventurous travel-lovers who welcome authentic experiences no matter where they are.

Both of my Intrepid groups have been a perfect blend of exactly that combination. There have been Americans, Aussies, Europeans, and Canadians traveling solo, as a couple, with friends, or as a family whether for a first-time out-of-college travel experience or celebrating a 30-year wedding anniversary.

The best part is they’re all travel lovers who are ready to explore! And, if you’re lucky like I’ve been, you’ll come away with travel memories and lasting friendships.

What are the accommodations like?

Intrepid has different types of tours, Basix, Original, and Comfort. This Vietnam Express Southbound tour is Original. Hotels are typically comfortable 3-star hotels for this type of tour.

All the hotels from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh were modern with relatively spacious rooms located conveniently in each city so we could walk to restaurants, shops, markets, and popular sights. Not all Intrepid tours stay at the same hotels but for reference, this is  the hotel  our group stayed at in Hue.

The one exception was in Hoi An, where the hotel was a 10-minute walk outside the old town and more of a 2-star hotel compared to the others where we stayed.

This  Vietnam Express Southbound tour  has 2 nights not spent in hotels, too.

In Ha Long Bay, we slept on our own junk boat. Each of us had our own cabins with ensuite bathrooms, fans, and air conditioning. Since I was traveling on my own, I had a cabin with 2 twin beds. On the main deck, there was an enclosed dining room, with outdoor deck seating at both ends of the boat.

We also took an overnight train from Hanoi to Hue. Intrepid books “First Class” cabins but it’s important to understand trains in Vietnam are not like the sleeper trains you might find in Europe, for example. We had private cabins for only our group but each cabin has 2 sets of bunks, sleeping 4 people in each. I shared with 3 other girls in the group and slept comfortably. The bathroom is shared among the car occupants.

I did bring my own sleeping sheet and used my travel pillow and  recommend you do the same . I loved waking up early to watch the Vietnamese countryside fly by from my window.

How does the group travel?

For the majority of the time, you’ll travel by private, air-conditioned van arranged by Intrepid. We did also take the boat out for the day and night onto Ha Long Bay, the train to Hue, and a short flight to get from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh. We flew on SkyTeam Alliance member, Vietnam Airlines.

What happens for meals?

Expect some of the best food ever! Not just with the included meals, but also because you have a local guide at your disposal who can recommend the best places to eat depending on what you want or need to meet any dietary restrictions. I’m a vegetarian and never lacked for anything delicious to eat.

Breakfasts are included in the tour, and typically part of the hotel breakfasts which offered complete western and Vietnamese breakfast foods. A few lunches and dinners throughout the 10 days are part of the tour, as well.

On the first night in Hanoi, our group had a delicious first meal together at KOTO, a restaurant partnered with the Intrepid Foundation. (If you didn’t know, Intrepid is a B Corp, which means they’ve committed to be a force for good and to put purpose before profit.) KOTO is a program that trains disadvantaged kids in hospitality and culinary skills.

Lunch and dinner were included on the Ha Long Bay cruise. We had a feast of local specialties that were prepared onboard with more than enough to satisfy our whole group. I’m a vegetarian and the group also had a few picky eaters, as well as someone who needed gluten-free meals. All of us were accommodated.

We had an incredible (all vegetarian!) lunch at a Buddhist monastery. I wish I could go back and get more cooked banyan fruit! 

The tour also included another feast lunch at a house restaurant in the Mekong Delta. 

Should You Book the Vietnam Express Southbound Tour with Intrepid? 

If you’ve read and watched this far,  Intrepid’s Vietnam Express Southbound tour  is calling your name!

This tour is right for you if you want to spend time sightseeing in Vietnam, but you also have a genuine curiosity about the Vietnamese people, culture, and daily life.

You’ll absolutely love this tour if you want a mix of group time, where the logistics are taken care of, and free time, when you can explore or relax as you want.

And you’ll definitely want to join in if you enjoy meeting other travel-lovers from around the world who are just as game as you to experience new things, taste new foods, and let the transformative power of travel expand their minds and hearts.

What questions do you have about traveling on the Vietnam Express Southbound tour with Intrepid?

Like this post? Please share it on social media using the share buttons below.

Disclosure: I was a guest of Intrepid Travel all opinions are my own…Easy to do when Intrepid makes travel so unforgettable!

Your trip planning checklist.

• Search for flights with Skyscanner or Momondo .
• Get the best hotel rates with Booking.com and Hotels.com .
• World Nomads makes it easy to get a travel insurance quote for that amazing bucketlist trip you just booked!
• Get Your Guide is my go-to for tours, tickets, and experiences.
• Use my list of travel packing basics to make sure you have what you need for your trip.
• Check out my free miles & points course to learn how to travel for less/free.
• See my full list of travel resources on my resource page . These are what I've used to book travel over the years.

Related Posts

Why You Should Drive the Icefields Parkway + Trip Planning Tips

3 Reasons to Visit Banff National Park Immediately

2 thoughts on “tour review: intrepid travel vietnam express southbound”.

Loved reading this review. Answered every single question I had. Thank you 🙂

Thanks so much for reading, Barbara. I’m glad the review was helpful!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

Epic Cambodia to Vietnam

23 days | take an epic journey through the best of cambodia and vietnam.

Southeast Asia is calling your name, and where better to start than with a deep dive into Cambodia and Vietnam? On this 23-day journey, you’ll see Wat’s up in Angkor with a full day pass into the ancient temple complex, laugh with the locals in Banteay Chhmar during a unique homestay experience, explore the markets in Siem Reap with a street food breakfast and see where the Mekong, Bassac and Tonle Sap rivers collide in Phnom Penh on a cruise at sunset. Hop over to Vietnam and see how the locals live, discover the rich history in Hoi An and taste some amazing food in Hue. Drift on the emerald waters around Cat Ba Island and go for a snoop through some of Hanoi's many markets. Enjoy unique homestays, explore national parks, eat your weight in fresh street eats and cycle through the countryside – what more could you ask for?

Trip overview

Tick off all the popular spots and enjoy unique local experiences

Affordable trips with the freedom to choose how you spend your time

You book, we donate to help support local communities

• Take a sunset cruise on the Mekong River of Phnom Penh and raise a glass (the drink is included) to one of the most serene settings in the country. Maybe keep the vibes going at a hip rooftop bar! 
• See the sunrise over the incredible Angkor complex and take a guided Tuk-tuk tour of all the best sites (including Angkor Wat and jungle-covered Ta Prohm) with a company focused on employing local women in the community. 
• Bliss out on a luxurious homestay in the National Park of Pu Luong – wake up to the serenity of quiet, terraced rice paddy fields, trek the local land to take in the scenery and meet some local tribes to learn about their culture. 
• See limestone karsts, blue-green waters, mysterious caves and ancient jungle on Cat Ba Island – this place feels a lot like paradise, and you’ll be kayaking your way through its hidden bays. 
• Tick Hanoi off your bucket list – walk the picturesque streets, try the famous banh mi and egg coffee and maybe even take a seat at a rooftop bar and order a pho cocktail. You'll have loads of free time to discover this place at your own pace, too!
• Lots of time allocated for optional activities means freedom and flexibility, but also a level of independence. Only a few meals are included but your leader will have plenty of suggestions for great eats at any budget. This is a great way to mingle with locals and discover unexpected delights! 
• Temperatures and humidity can be high in Cambodia, especially when walking around sights like the Angkor complex, where there may be little shade. Be prepared by taking plenty of drink breaks and wearing appropriate skin protection. Some travellers find an umbrella handy to keep the sun off (this will also come in handy if it rains!).
• The stories shared at Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek are confronting, and many travellers will find them upsetting. This is an essential part of Cambodia's recent history that we feel is important to share, however, if you would prefer not to join in these visits, your leader will be able to suggest alternatives. 
• You will visit a number of temples on this trip, and this requires a level of modesty. Be sure to bring clothes that cover your arms and pants or skirts that go past the knees. A light scarf is also a good idea for covering shoulders and arms when it’s hot. 
• You’ll cover a lot of distance on this trip, including on overnight trains. You'll also be spending two nights with local families. While the accommodation is shared and basic, this is a great opportunity to connect with the local people (and enjoy delicious home-cooked meals!). Many travellers list these homestay experiences as the highlight of their Vietnam adventure and ease into the night very quickly. 

Sawasdee! Welcome to Thailand. Your adventure begins in Bangkok with an important welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. Bangkok has so much going on, so if you've got time to explore this Southeast Asian hub, why not hit the canals for a riverboat trip to Chinatown? Maybe visit the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha or indulge in a pre-adventure massage. Tonight, maybe opt to get together with your new fellow travellers and head out for a green curry or tom yum goong (spicy seafood soup) for dinner.

• Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

• Bangkok - Grand Palace - THB500
• Bangkok - Wat Pho - THB300
• Bangkok - Tuk Tuk Experience Urban Adventure - THB2500
• Bangkok - Temple & River of Kings Urban Adventure - THB2900
• Bangkok - Chinatown Sights and Bites Urban Adventure - THB1960

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

Rise 'n' shine early this morning to leave Thailand and head into Cambodia! Your first destination on your Cambodian journey is Banteay Chhmar, which translates as Citadel of the Cat. This charming little village is far off the tourist trail and dotted with several temples. Take the chance to stretch your legs as you leader takes you on a walk to explore the village. Tonight, you'll experience traditional hospitality from a local family in a Khmer house set on wooden stilts – this homestay experience is the perfect way to get to know the locals and immerse yourself in their culture. As the day comes to an end, sit down to a delicious Khmer dinner by torchlight in the grounds of the temple or at a local community centre (depending on the weather).

• Homestay (1 night)
• Banteay Chmar - Village Walk
• Banteay Chhmar - Homestay

Your travel time today will be approximately 8 hours.

The facilities at your homestay in Banteay Chhmar are simple – a thin mattress on the floor, with a pillow and mosquito net provided. The bathroom facilities will be shared and often consist of a squat-style toilet and washing area – this might be a shower or just a bucket shower (a large bucket of water with a small scoop that you use to pour water over yourself). Towels will be provided for you to use for washing. For passengers wanting a little more comfort. It’s recommended you bring your own towel and an extra pillow.

After a peaceful night, you’ll visit the temple in the middle of Banteay Chhmar this morning. Similar to many Khmer temples in Cambodia, this temple is surrounded by water, which often represents the ocean surrounding the Temple Mountain (an architectural representation of the Hindu god’s home Mount Meru). After, you’ll take a private vehicle to Siem Reap – a popular city where you’ll spend the next couple of days. When you arrive, maybe spend some time looking around the central markets and pick up some delicious food for dinner.

• Hostel (1 night)
• Banteay Chhmar - Banteay Chhmar Temple visit

Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Early this morning, you’ll visit the mighty Angkor complex at sunrise – this is the largest religious structure in the world, and it’s pretty special to see the dawn rise over the temples. Get the camera ready because these 400 acres are full of picturesque settings. You’ll take a guided tour of the complex on a Tuk-tuk with a local social enterprise that focuses on providing employment opportunities for women in the community – and see the larger-than-life Angkor Wat, the grand Bayon and the jungle-covered Ta Prohm. Some buildings are over a thousand years old from the Khmer Empire – these beauties were known to represent the cosmic world and were set in perfect balance, symmetry and composition. If you like, try to catch the majesty of the temples at sunset, too – you can even head back to your accommodation after your guided tour for a nap and then re-enter the site in the late afternoon. Tonight, enjoy a traditional homemade dinner in a local family's home.

• Siem Reap - One day Angkor Pass
• Siem Reap - Home cooked dinner
• Siem Reap - Angkor Wat Sunrise
• Siem Reap - Angkor Temples Guided Tour by TukTuk

A 1-day Angkor Pass is included on this tour. If you'd like to return to Angkor outside of your included visit, you can buy a longer pass, just ask your leader.

This morning, you can take up an awesome street food breakfast in Siem Reap’s local market. Then, today is free for you to experience the city however you want. If you're all templed out, you can opt for an Angkor zip-line course, which will have you soaring like an eagle over the rainforest. Your leader will know all the best things to do, so ask them if you’re stuck.

• Siem Reap - Street food breakfast
• Siem Reap - Phare Circus Ticket - USD18
• Siem Reap - Three day Angkor Pass - USD62
• Siem Reap - Angkor Zipline Silver Tour - USD54
• Siem Reap - Landmine Museum - USD5
• Siem Reap - Full day remork transport to Angkor complex - USD20
• Siem Reap - Angkor Zipline Gold Tour - USD87

Time to head to Cambodia’s capital – Phnom Penh. Take a public bus through the Cambodian countryside until you reach the bustling city. Phnom Penh sits at the junction of the Mekong, Bassac and Tonle Sap rivers and used to be known as Krong Chaktomuk (the City of Four Faces) – this river junction forms an X crossing, representing four geographic ‘faces’ of the city and surrounding area. The main centre of the city sits on the Western bank of the Tonle Sap and Mekong rivers. In the evening, you’ll head out with your group for a sunset river cruise and enjoy an included drink as you sail along the water and see the city from a different perspective. Then, you might like to hit up a rooftop bar with some amazing views of the city – there are tonnes of options to choose from, so just ask your leader and they’ll point you in the right direction!

• Phnom Penh - Sunset River Cruise
• Phnom Penh - Wat Phnom - USD2
• Phnom Penh - National Museum - USD10
• Phnom Penh - Khmer massage - USD8

Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.

Today, you’ll have the chance to learn more about the country's sobering history and the Khmer Rouge atrocities at the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek and the infamous Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. The rest of the day is free to explore the city. If you're in the mood for some shopping, maybe check out the Psar Thmei (Central Market), located in an old French colonial building. Maybe stop by the temple of Wat Phnom, the National Museum or the French Quarter. A popular activity here is to jump in a cyclo with a local – sunset is the best time to explore the busy streets, in search of some beautiful scenery and pretty incredible views.

• Phnom Penh - Killing Fields of Choeung Ek
• Phnom Penh - Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21)
• Phnom Penh - Cyclo Tour - USD4

Travel by public bus to Ho Chi Minh City this morning – this is a long drive but there will be stops for lunch and to stretch your legs. Your leader knows the drill, so they'll assist you with border crossing procedures. Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City and get your first taste of this fast-paced, fun city. Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is quite the hub of markets, stalls and Vietnamese history, and much of city life happens on the streets. You'll see it's a combo of all kinds of flavours, old and new, East and West. Try a French baguette, get your pho fix and caffeine hit with some Vietnamese coffee, best shared with the locals.

Your travel time today will be approximately 10 hours.

Today is free to explore the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh at your own pace. Much of city life takes place on the busy streets lined with shops, stalls and vendors, who have their wares spread out on the footpath and sell everything from soup to sophisticated electronics. You’ll have another meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet some new members of the group. After, why not head into the Ben Thanh night market for a serving of pho or bun with your fellow travellers?  

• Ho Chi Minh City - War Remnants Museum - VND40000
• Ho Chi Minh City - Reunification Palace - VND40000
• Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnel Experience Urban Adventure - USD45

This is a combo trip, meaning your trip leader and group members are likely to change today.

Today, head down to the Mekong Delta and visit Ben Tre, where the humble coconut is everything and anything. The fertile delta is famous for its abundant harvests of tropical fruits and flowers as well as boating along the canals. When you arrive, board a private boat and cruise along the maze of waterways to visit some cottage industries, where you’ll have the chance to interact with the locals of the area. In the evening, head to a guesthouse along the water and enjoy some time to relax among the soothing sounds of the river.

• Mekong Delta - Homestay and Boat Cruise

Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.

Facilities at the guesthouses are basic and can vary as your group will stay with several different families. You sleep on camp beds in a communal room, and bedding and mosquito nets are provided. Your guesthouse will be located near the Mekong but may not be on the banks of the river itself.

Rise early to the sounds of the delta coming alive and enjoy a simple breakfast before catching a bus back to Ho Chi Minh City. Enjoy some free time in Ho Chi Minh City to check out a few more sites or some tasty street food snacks. There will be a leader-led orientation walk around the city, where you might choose to try the iconic Saigon café’s sua da (iced coffee with condensed milk) as your leader shares stories about local life. Late this evening, board an overnight train bound for Hoi An – a historical town on the central coast. Although conditions are basic, overnight trains are all part of the experience and the best way to travel long distances with the locals.

• Overnight sleeper train (1 night)
• Ho Chi Minh City - Orientation Walk

Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours. The overnight train will take approximately 16 hours.

Sleeper trains typically have four or six berth compartments with bench seats that convert into sleeping bunks. A sheet, pillow and blanket are provided, although some travellers prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet. You may have to share with people of different genders or passengers who aren’t part of the group - your leader will coordinate and give further information on the trip. Most trains have a dining carriage serving simple food, but it's recommended that you stock up on snacks and drinks beforehand.

Arrive in Danang in the early afternoon and travel by minibus to Hoi An. Recently declared a World Heritage-listed site, Hoi An is beautifully restored and preserved. Known as Faifo to early Western traders, it was one of South-East Asia's major international ports during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Today, parts of Hoi An look exactly as they did over a century ago. Among the feeling of decades past, it's also a shopping mecca! You can choose from original paintings, hand-crafted woodwork, ceramics, embroidery, lanterns, and so much more if you’re after a good deal or some souvenirs. Hoi An has also become famous for its tailoring, with many tailors and fabrics to choose from. Bring your favourite piece of clothing or even just a picture, and you can have it copied. When you arrive, head out on a walking tour of the Old Town. After, you’re free to explore Hoi An at your own pace.

• Hoi An - Old Town walking tour

Your travel time today will be approximately 1 hour.

There's no better way to explore the peaceful countryside of Hoi An than by bike. For a true insight into country living in Vietnam, join your leader in cycling past green rice paddies, over small creeks and through rural villages. Later in the day, you may like to cycle or catch a local bus to Cua Dai Beach near Hoi An centre for an afternoon on the stunning Eastern Sea. If you would like to see more of the Vietnamese countryside and visit some temples, you could book yourself into a My Son Cham day trip. The afternoon is yours to do as you please – you might like to wander to streets with your camera and discover all the colourful buildings lit up by lanterns as the sun goes down.

• Hoi An - Countryside bicycle tour
• Hoi An - My Son Cham tour (entrance fee, guide and transport included) - USD45

Departing Hoi An, you’ll cross the dramatic Hai Van Pass this morning, with a quick stop and photo opportunity before continuing to Hue. As the former imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue holds the treasures of Vietnam's royal past and is a curious mix of bustling streets and tranquil settings. Your afternoon is free to go exploring. The Dong Ba market, which sells everything imaginable, is a great place to spend some time. See the Imperial Citadel, including a visit to the Forbidden Purple City, which was almost totally destroyed during the Vietnam War's Tet Offensive. In the evening, sit back, relax and enjoy a traditional dinner in a local home. These experiences off the beaten track are the ones you’ll remember.

• Hue - Home cooked dinner
• Hue - Imperial City Full Day Tour - USD69

Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

You’ve got the whole day to explore stunning Hue today. Head out with your group on a street food experience in the morning to pick up a delicious market breakfast and pass by all the local traders. Later, you may like to take a dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River and visit Thien Mu Pagoda – considered by many to be the unofficial symbol of Hue. It's an active Buddhist monastery with its origins dating back to 1601. One of the most poignant displays is a car belonging to a former monk who in 1963 drove to Saigon and set himself alight to protest against the treatment of Buddhists by the South Vietnamese regime. Otherwise, you’ll have the opportunity to embark on an optional motorbike tour, riding with a local guide around the sights.

• Hue - Street food breakfast
• Hue - Perfume River cruise & Thien Mu Pagoda - VND220000
• Hue - Royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc - VND150000
• Hue - Highlights & back streets by motorbike (without lunch) - USD23
• Hue - Highlights & back streets by motorbike (with lunch) - USD28

Jump on the bus and make your way to Quang Tri. If you’re keen, it’s just a small fee to visit the Hien Luong Bridge and Vinh Moc tunnels. Hien Luong Bridge separated the North from the South during the war. The tunnels at Vinh Moc are an expansive network of limestone tunnels that locals used as shelters from the bombing. Travel on to Phong Nha and spend the afternoon exploring your surroundings. You'll stay just outside Phong Nha Town, near Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park – an amazing landscape full of caves and underground rivers.

• Guesthouse (1 night)
• Quang Tri - Hien Luong Bridge - VND40000
• Quang Tri - Vinh Moc Tunnels - VND40000

Enjoy a free day to explore Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park – at 400 million years old, this World Heritage Site is the oldest karst mountain range in Asia. You might like to take a boat through Phong Nha Cave or check out the spectacular Paradise Cave. If caves aren’t your thing, chat with your leader about a kayaking adventure in Suoi Mooc. Otherwise, chill out with a coffee and soak in the river views. Later today, you'll head back to Dong Hoi and hop back on a sleeper train – you'll be a pro at this by now.

• Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park - Paradise Cave - VND250000
• Suoi Mooc - Kayaking and Swimming - VND180000
• Phong Nha Ke-Bang National Park - Phong Nha Cave - VND150000

The overnight train will take approximately 10 hours.

Arrive in Hanoi very early this morning and transfer to your hotel, leaving your luggage and setting out to discover the city. Hanoi is known for its beautiful lakes, shaded boulevards, lush public parks and thriving Old Quarter – an architectural museum with blocks of ochre buildings retaining the air of a 1930s provincial French town. As Vietnam develops to compete with other South-East Asian countries, the beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake reflects the contrasts of modern office buildings, old Buddhist temples and the tangle of ancient streets on its still surface. Take a walking tour of the Old Quarter and the French Quarter with your leader, visiting the Dong Xuan market (the biggest wholesale market in northern Vietnam). Stroll through the ancient '36 streets' where you can discover an amazing selection of shops selling everything from souvenirs to exquisite silk clothing and beautifully embroidered tablecloths. Your leader will point out some of the unique architecture around Hoan Kiem Lake and the myths and legends of the lake, and you’ll sit down for a banh mi lunch.

• Hanoi - Old Quarter & French Quarter Walking Tour
• Hanoi - Banh Mi Lunch
• Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh Complex - VND80000
• Hanoi - Fine Arts Museum - VND30000
• Hanoi - Army Museum - VND20000
• Hanoi - Women's Museum - VND30000
• Hanoi - Temple of Literature - VND70000
• Hanoi - Hoa Lo 'Hanoi Hilton' Prison - VND50000
• Hanoi - Museum of Ethnology - VND40000
• Hanoi - Street Food Experience Urban Adventure - USD40

Leave Hanoi this morning and travel to Pu Luong – one of the most beautiful sites in rural Vietnam with expansive rice paddy fields surrounded by the National Park. When you arrive, you’ll check in to your unique homestay accommodation, with rooms boasting views of the rice fields. Have a quick lunch then head out for a trek in the middle of this natural paradise. You’ll see the impressive water wheel in the village, locals working in the fields, and you’ll visit a few local tribes, giving you the opportunity to learn about their culture and customs firsthand. 

• Pu Luong - Homestay and Village Walk

Comfortable supportive footwear (running shoes) will be suitable for today’s walk, however you are welcome to bring hiking boots if you prefer. It can be quite slippery if there has been recent rain. Tonight's homestay is shared accommodation, where the group will be together in one room. There are separate beds with clean linen, blankets and mosquito nets provided.

This morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast, then make your way back to Hanoi. Today, you’ll visit The Intrepid Foundation partner Vun Art – a local organisation empowering people with disabilities in Vietnam by providing job training and employment opportunities. See how they produce tote bags and art pieces from the discarded silk that comes from Van Phuc Silk Village. Vun Art also aims to reduce climate impact by reusing these scraps and in the process, keeping traditional art alive. First, the fabric is cut into mosaics, then gathered and glued individually and finally, it’s pressed in the heat press machine. Tonight, you’re free to find the perfect spot (or street food) for dinner. After, maybe head out to explore the bars and discover the streets after sundown.

• Hanoi - Vun Art Visit

Travel by bus and ferry to Cat Ba Island – the largest island in the World Heritage-listed Ha Long Bay area. With thousands of limestone islands and formations scattered around, this is one of the quintessential Vietnamese scenes where bright green water is dotted with traditional junk boats. Take a boat around Lan Ha Bay, then get up close and personal with this other-worldly landscape by kayak. Stay overnight on Cat Ba Island and enjoy a dip at one of the beaches (and maybe a cold beer).

• Cat Ba Island - Kayaking
• Cat Ba Island - Boat trip on Lan Ha Bay

Wake up in paradise, and maybe start your morning with a refreshing swim. Ensure you soak up as much sun and sand as possible, as it's back to Hanoi later in the afternoon via ferry and bus. Being such a large city, Hanoi has so much to explore. This afternoon, you could head to the French Quarter to see the European influences on parts of Hanoi’s architecture, or otherwise, get the gang together and stake out a roadside stall for some chargrilled meats or pho cuon (rice noodle rolls).

Today's travel time is approximately 3.5 hours.

There are no activities planned for today, and you can depart the accommodation at any time. With so much to see and do in Hanoi, why not book an Urban Adventure? Hanoi Street Food Experience is a good pick – a 3-hour tour where you’ll get to sample some amazing eats from markets, street cafes, food carts and other secret spots. If you would like to spend some more time in Hanoi, just speak to your booking agent.

5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners

Boat, Overnight sleeper train, Public bus, Private minibus, Remork (Tuk-tuk)

Hostel (3 nights), Guesthouse (1 night), Homestay (3 nights), Hotel (13 nights), Overnight sleeper train (2 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport), for train tickets. Ticketing fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket. 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Days 2, 10 & 19 (homestay), Days 11 and 17 (overnight trains) and Day 16 (guesthouse) where you will be in shared accommodation, and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

Filter by rating

Intrepid Travelling

Intrepid Travelling Experiences, Reviews and Advice

Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, so too Vietnam is developing and becoming one of the star destinations for any intrepid journey around Southeast Asia. Whether starting your journey north of Hanoi in Sa Pa overlooking the rice fields of the Muong Hoa Valley or paddling around the water markets of the Mekong delt a there is far more to see in between than your 15 or 30 day visa will allow you time to experience.  Access is easier than ever, although the bus rides are still an adventure in themselves, but the sights of Ha Long Bay, the tailors of Hoi An, the palm lined beaches of Nha Trang, the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City’s (Saigon) street markets make it all worthwhile. And if you’re planning to visit Cambodia before or after Vietnam, be sure to opt for the fast boat along the Mekong!

Backpacking Through Vietnam's North Visiting Sapa and Ha Long Bay

Vietnam (officially the Socialist Republic of Vietnam) is a country that has a long history of fighting for its independence.  The Chinese occupied the country for a 1,000 years before...  Read more >>

An Intrepid Backpackers Experience of Saigon

Southern vietnam’s rural mekong delta enroute to cambodia.

Our week of exploring Saigon had come to an end, so it was time to venture out of the city and travel across the Mekong Delta region, the agricultural heartland of Southern Vietnam...  Read more >>

Plan a Trip to Cambodia and Vietnam 2024: Itinerary, Best Time...

In the heart of Southeast Asia, Cambodia and Vietnam have long been in the limelight for many travelers. They border each other, offering convenient travel connections.

Diversity is absolutely one of the most enchanting features of Vietnam and Cambodia. Plunging into Halong Bay, climbing up Pre Rup for a breathtaking sunset in Siem Reap, or delving into Hanoi's alleys for delicacies... no matter whether you're traveling for a honeymoon, anniversary, or family vacation… Vietnam and Cambodia will not disappoint you.

• Places to See
• How Long Do You Need
• How Much Does It Cost
• Best Time to Visit
• How to Get There and Travel Around
• How to Obtain Visas

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Places to See in Cambodia and Vietnam

Vietnam and Cambodia, neighboring Southeast Asian countries, present distinct travel experiences.

Vietnam boasts diverse landscapes, from the northern rice terraces to the iconic Ha Long Bay, and is rich in history with influences from China, France, and the United States. Its vibrant cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offer a blend of traditional and modern charm, and the cuisine is celebrated for its freshness and flavors.

On the other hand, Cambodia is renowned for the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat and the Khmer Empire's historical sites, set amidst lush landscapes. The country embraces Khmer culture, featuring unique dishes such as amok and showcasing a slower pace of life.

Top Things to Do in Vietnam

1. Explore the Old Quarter in Hanoi : explore the city's charm by visiting sites like the elegant Bach Ma Temple and Dong Xuan Market, the oldest local market in the city.

2. Stay overnight on a cruise to see Halong Bay : exercise with water activities like swimming, kayaking, or canoeing, and enjoy the sunset on the cruise deck with a cup of beer in hand.

3. Trek in Sapa among the rice fields : bring yourself closer to the raw nature of Vietnam.

4. Track back to the last emperor's life in Hue : a good destination for history buffs.

5. Soak in the beauty of Hoi An Old Town : strolling around the lantern-lit streets, you will have a sense of peace and tranquility.

6. Visit the floating markets along the Mekong Delta via a boat ride : they have retained their traditional way of doing business.

7. Relax on a wonderful beach on Phu Quoc Island in South Vietnam : enjoy sunbathing, and fresh seafood, as well as fantastic scuba diving and snorkeling.

Top Things to Do in Cambodia

1. Explore the ancient temple complex of Angkor Wat , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant archaeological sites in Southeast Asia.

2. Take in the charming countryside scenery on a quad bike in Siem Reap : pass the seldom-visited local villages, rice fields, and temples, and reward yourself with an amazing countryside sunset.

3. Take a boat trip on Tonle Sap , the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. See Siem Reap from another perspective as you pass the floating villages, which still retain the lifestyle of the ancient Cambodians.

4. Sense the misery of the Khmer Rouge period in Phnom Penh : Although it's sad and even disturbing to visit the Killing Fields and S-21 Prison, this will get you acquainted with one of the worst human tragedies of the last century.

How Long Do You Need in Vietnam and Cambodia?

We highly recommend allocating a minimum of 12 days for your inaugural journey to Vietnam and Cambodia. For an even more enriching experience, consider extending your trip to 14 days . This extended timeframe allows for a leisurely exploration, enabling you to cover a broader range of destinations and partake in a diverse array of activities, all at a relaxed pace.

Vietnam: (8-12 days)

• Hanoi (2-3 days)
• Halong Bay (2-3 days)
• Hoi An (2-3 days)
• Ho Chi Minh City (2-3 days)

Cambodia: (3-7 days)

• Siem Reap (3-4 days)
• Phnom Penh (2-3 days)
• Optional: Sihanoukville or Kampot (2-3 days)

Vietnam and Cambodia Itinerary Ideas: 12 Days and 2 Weeks

Our 12-Day Cambodia and Vietnam Highlights Tour is a classic tour for your inspiration, designed for those who want to visit all the must-see destinations and essential sights in both Vietnam and Cambodia within a limited timeframe.

What we are suggesting is the hardest-to-easiest approach. Cambodia's cultural attributes demand more of your engagement: emotions are drawn at the Killing Fields and S21 Museum and a lot of walking is required at the Angkor Wat Complex. Vietnam is relatively relaxing and can be a good wind-down after Cambodia.

• Day 1: Phnom Penh Arrival, Cambodia
• Day 2: Phnom Penh (Heart-Breaking Past and Hopeful Present)
• Day 3: Phnom Penh – Siem Reap (1-hour flight or 6-hour drive along Tonle Sap), Tomb Raider Experience
• Day 4: Siem Reap (Angkor Wat in Depth)
• Day 5: Siem Reap – Ho Chi Minh City by flight | Saigon at Dusk
• Day 6: Ho Chi Minh City | Mekong Impression
• Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City – Hoi An (Danang Airport)
• Day 8: Hoi An Ancient Town
• Day 9: Hoi An (Danang Airport) – Hanoi
• Day 10: Hanoi from a Different Angle
• Day 11: Hanoi – Halong Bay | Relaxing Cruising in Halong Bay
• Day 12: Halong Bay – Hanoi, Hanoi Departure

What sets apart this tour is the presence of a dedicated scholar of Angkor culture who will guide you through the intricacies of Angkor Wat. Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to soak in breathtaking views of Halong Bay on a carefully selected cruise , characterized by its smaller size, providing more privacy and intimacy. Glide through a hidden canal in the less-touristy area of the Mekong Delta aboard a traditional sampan, and experience more unique and memorable moments throughout the journey. See the detailed itinerary .

More itinerary options are suggested in 2 weeks in Vietnam and Cambodia >>>

How Much Does It Cost to Travel to Vietnam and Cambodia?

When traveling to Vietnam and Cambodia, you can expect lower prices than in Thailand and Singapore. For a private trip, the daily cost usually ranges from US$170 to US$250 per person .

Travel with us , beyond regular sightseeing, you can enjoy more exclusive activities : foodie adventures, a fishing tour with a basket boat ride, sunset quad bike rides, and an Angkor Wat walking tour led by our Khmer scholar.

We've also carefully selected various hotels at the best agent rates whether you are looking for a family resort or a boutique hotel with unparalleled views.

You can see our two handpicked private tours to get more details about costs and itineraries. The prices are based on a group of 2+ people.

• 12-Day Cambodia and Vietnam Highlights Tour : from US$2,819 per person
• 14-Day Vietnam and Cambodia Family Tour : From US$2,366 per adult, US$1775 per child

What Is the Best Time to Visit Vietnam and Cambodia?

Both countries are subject to a monsoon climate. There are three main seasons in Vietnam and Cambodia:

• Dry season : November to February
• Hot season : March to May (temperatures consistently get up to around 38°C (100°F))
• Rainy season : June to October (it usually rains in the afternoon and at night, so it's easy to plan around the weather)

The best time to visit both Vietnam and Cambodia is during the dry season, which typically spans from November to March . This period generally offers more comfortable temperatures, lower humidity, and less rainfall, making it ideal for exploring cultural sites, outdoor activities, and enjoying landscapes.

The shoulder seasons , such as late November or early December and late March or early April, can offer a balance between favorable weather and fewer tourists.

The hot season and the rainy season are not so comfortable for travel, but you will find fewer crowds and lower prices for flights and accommodation.

Typhoons from July to September

Typhoons typically strike the northern to central coast of Vietnam during the July-to-September typhoon season, potentially leading to cruise cancellations in Halong Bay and the risk of flooding in Hoi An Ancient Town.

Cambodia seldom gets struck by storms, except for Sihanoukville during the typhoon season.

How to Get to Vietnam and Cambodia?

If you are traveling from the USA or Europe, it's advisable to consider starting your journey in one of Vietnam's prominent cities, like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, due to their accessibility from international destinations. In Cambodia, major airports include Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.

To travel between Vietnam and Cambodia, you have three options: by boat, by plane, or by road.

• Flying: Opting for air travel is the most convenient choice, requiring only 1–2 hours for the journey.
• Boat Travel: Choosing to travel by boat provides a unique experience along the Mekong River. You have two notable options—a 5-hour ferry departing from Chau Doc in Vietnam to Phnom Penh or a longer cruise option, either a 4-day cruise between Ho Chi Minh and Phnom Penh or an 8-day cruise between Ho Chi Minh and Siem Reap.
• Road Travel: While not recommended due to its extended duration of about 7 hours, traveling by road is a feasible but time-consuming option.

How to Obtain Visas for Vietnam and Cambodia?

Vietnam visas.

Holders of normal passports issued by the following countries do not require a visa to visit Vietnam:

• Europe : United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Belarus, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Russia, Sweden
• South and Middle America : Chile, Panama
• Asia : Japan, South Korea, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, Kyrgyzstan, Philippines, Brunei

Starting from August 15, 2023, Vietnam e-visas are issued to citizens of all countries and territories, and they are issued for multiple entries for up to 90 days . You can now apply for the e-visa online . The e-visa fee is approximately 25 USD, and your application will usually be processed within 3 working days. Applying for an e-visa is efficient and convenient.

Cambodia Visas

Regular passport holders from the following countries do not require a visa to visit Cambodia (for the following periods):

• Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, and Vietnam (30 days)
• Philippines (21 days)
• Thailand (14 days)

If you are from other countries, you can apply for an e-Visa online for US$37 before arrival, or you may do it on the spot when you enter Cambodia as a Visa-on-Arrival (30 USD for single entry). Visa-on-Arrival is not available at the border-crossing from Chau Doc in Vietnam, but it is at most other ports.

Visit Vietnam and Cambodia with Asia Highlights

Traveling is all about experiences. That is the very thing that you cannot cut corners on. It is also nice to get inspired by experiences. Here, we have designed classic tour itineraries catering to almost all palates for inspiration. If that doesn't strike your fancy, talk to us and get started here: Help Me Plan Now .

• 12-Day Cambodia and Vietnam Highlights
• 12-Day Essential Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour
• 15-Day Best of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour
• 19-Day Highlights of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.

More Travel Ideas and Inspiration

Sign up to our newsletter.

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

Why Asia Highlights

Where can we take you today.

• Middle East
• African Safari
• Travel Agents
• Loyalty Program
• Privacy Policy

Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China

September Sale   Book now for   up to 60% off!

All Cambodia Tours from Intrepid Travel

10 intrepid travel trips through cambodia.

Cambodia's Secrets of Angkor (Comfort)

"Great value for your money!! They answered all my questions quickly and made payments easy." Kathleen, traveled in December 2015

Cambodia: Hike, Bike & Kayak

"Everything was so easy and smooth, made travelling not stressful." Jasmin, traveled in December 2018

Cambodia Family Holiday

Cambodia Discovery (from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap)

Cambodia Express

"The Cambodia express tour was sooo great!!! It was a fun and memorable experience." Kristen, traveled in March 2018

Cambodian Traveller

"The tour was an incredible experience that I would highly recommend to anyone." Ron, traveled in November 2023

Best of Cambodia (6 destinations)

Cambodia Adventure

"The experience was excellent and really enhanced our time there." Yash, traveled in December 2018

Essential Cambodia

"The trip far exceeded my expectations. Definitely a highlight of the trip was having someone so helpful and knowledgeable with us." Cameron, traveled in December 2018

Cambodia Real Food Adventure

"I recommended you to my nephew and his family and they 'did' a family holiday in Vietnam and loved it." Jennifer, traveled in December 2018

• Cambodia Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

Discover TourRadar

• Zimbabwe Safari
• Wild Atlantic Way Tours
• The Maritimes: Prince Edward Island to New Brunswick
• Angkor Wat and Floating Village Cruise at Tonle Sap Lake Private 3 Days Tour
• 16 Days Cairo, Alexandria, Nile Cruise & Sharm El Sheikh (12 destinations)
• The 4 days tour from Marrekch to Chefchaouen
• Weather in Greece in