20-Day Vietnam to Cambodia: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, and Angkor Wat

Upon your arrival at the hostel in Hanoi, you’ll have the opportunity to get acquainted with your fellow travellers and meet your Adventure Leader.

Following a comprehensive pre-departure briefing about the journey ahead, you’ll embark on a visit to the Hoa Lo Prison, delving into Vietnam’s rich history. Afterward, a visit to Hoan Kiem Lake, graced with a central temple, awaits. Here, you can leisurely stroll around the lake’s perimeter, observing local residents engaged in games on the broad streets, originally constructed by the French in Hanoi’s historic heart.

For a satisfying lunch, consider Old Quarter Street, followed by a free afternoon to explore Hanoi’s charming historic avenues and perhaps practice the art of crossing its bustling streets just like a local. If you’re seeking evening entertainment, you can opt to attend a mesmerizing Water Puppet Show.

Your day begins with a visit to the historically significant Hoa Lo Prison, where you’ll delve further into the compelling history of Vietnam. Following this, you’ll make your way to Hoan Kiem Lake, home to a captivating temple at its centre. Take a leisurely stroll around the lake’s perimeter, where you can observe local residents engaged in various games on the broad avenues constructed by the French in Hanoi’s historic district. If your appetite beckons, consider satisfying it with lunch at Old Quarter Street.

The afternoon is yours to explore the enchanting, narrow streets of Hanoi, providing an excellent opportunity to hone your skills in crossing the bustling roads just like a local. For those seeking evening entertainment, a visit to watch a Water Puppet Show can be a delightful choice.

Your adventure takes you to Halong Bay today, an enchanting destination nestled in Vietnam’s northeastern region. Once you reach the shores of Halong Bay, a serene boat cruise will provide the perfect start to your experience. You’ll be guided to the finest locations, inviting you to partake in a refreshing swim or perhaps even try a thrilling cliff jump. As the day draws to a close, the group will relish a delectable BBQ dinner on a secluded, private beach.

Your day commences with an invigorating kayak tour on the mesmerizing emerald waters of Halong Bay. As you paddle, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the limestone islands and have the chance to venture into nearby sea caves. Following this adventurous morning, you’ll join the group for a satisfying lunch. Later in the day, you’ll make your way back to Hanoi and board an overnight bus to Phong Nha.

Upon your arrival in Phong Nha at around 4 am, you’ll proceed to your hostel, where you can take the opportunity to catch up on some much-needed sleep. Afterward, you’ll embark on a delightful bike ride to Bong Lai village. Here, you’ll make a pit stop at the ‘Pub With Cold Beer,’ engage in some volleyball, and savor a delicious meal. As the day transitions into evening, don’t hesitate to consult your Adventure Leader for suggestions on how to make the most of Phong Nha’s nightlife.

Today, you have the option to immerse yourself in an exciting activity. Spend the day exploring Phong Nha’s vast cave systems, including Paradise Cave and Dark Cave. Alternatively, you can embark on a hiking adventure along the Ho Chi Minh Trail, where you might be fortunate enough to encounter incredible wildlife like tigers, bears, and elephants. Following dinner, it’s time to board the sleeper bus to Hoi An.

Your arrival in Hoi An is scheduled for 4 am. Take some time to rest at your accommodation in the morning. In the afternoon, you can opt for a lantern-making experience. Later, embark on a guided tour of the ancient town and the riverfront. During this tour, you’ll gain insights into the town’s rich history, particularly its significance as a vital trading post with Japanese and Vietnamese influences.

Today is your free day to explore Hoi An at your own pace. Alternatively, you can choose from several optional activities. You might opt for a visit to Ba Na Hills, a French-style village accessible by the world’s longest cable car. Alternatively, you can explore a local farm or rent a bike to discover one of Hoi An’s beautiful beaches. In the evening, savour delightful local cuisine or immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife.

Commence your day with an engaging Coconut Basket Boat and Farming adventure. Later, proceed to the airport to catch a flight to our final destination in Vietnam. Relish a dinner in the vibrant city and soak in the nighttime cityscape from a rooftop bar before embarking on an exciting bar crawl.

Commence your day with a guided tour of Ho Chi Minh City, exploring some of the city’s renowned landmarks. Savor a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, and take a relaxing break. In the afternoon, you have the choice to visit the War Remnants Museum, an institution that offers vital insights into the history of the Vietnam War. Come evening, relish your time at a bustling night market.

Set out on an exploration of the Cu Chi tunnels, an intricate network of connecting tunnels employed during the Civil War. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in a captivating coffee workshop. Conclude your last evening in Ho Chi Minh City with a thrilling 2-hour karaoke session, where you can sing your hearts out and create lasting memories!

Today, cross the border into Cambodia as you journey towards the capital. After checking in at the hostel, set out on a city walk to explore the sights. In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner and drinks at Bassac Lane, soaking in the local atmosphere.

This morning, engage in a tour of the S21 Prison and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, delving into the harrowing history of Cambodia. Traverse the city in a Tuk Tuk with a knowledgeable local guide. You can opt for a serene sunset cruise or explore the vibrant night market to conclude your day.

Embark on a journey to Sihanoukville, where you’ll board a ferry to Koh Rong Samloem Island, a serene paradise celebrated for its pristine sandy shores, crystalline waters, and tranquil ambiance. Savor a leisurely afternoon by the beach or partake in an exciting kayaking adventure.

As evening descends, we’ll rendezvous at a cliffside bar for drinks, allowing you to relish a cocktail while witnessing a breathtaking sunset. The night will lead you to the beach, where you’ll wade into the water to witness the mesmerizing bioluminescent plankton phenomenon.

Commence your day with a delectable buffet breakfast, setting the perfect tone for an island day adventure. Your journey will include a visit to a traditional fishing village, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture, followed by some leisure time on the sun-kissed beach. Explore the wonders beneath the sea by snorkelling in the vibrant coral reef at a nearby island, enjoying paradise.

Kickstart your day with a scuba diving session, a beach clean-up, or simply laze under the sun to work on your tan. Savor a delightful BBQ lunch on the beach, and in the afternoon, make your way to the mainland where you’ll catch the sleeper bus bound for Siem Reap.

You’ll reach your lodging bright and early, kickstarting the day with a walking tour of local villages. Spend a leisurely afternoon indulging in spa sessions, and in the evening, relish a captivating night at a Cambodian circus.

Begin your day at the break of dawn as you venture to the UNESCO World Heritage Site – Angkor Wat – the largest religious monument globally! Dedicate a few hours to explore the Temples of Angkor, including Ta Prohm, which gained notoriety for its role in Tomb Raider.

In the afternoon, you can opt for the Apopo Hero Rats Tour via Tuk Tuk. Come evening, you have the choice to partake in a 1.5-hour tour on a pedal-pub car, which includes one free drink per person, followed by drinks at bar prices and the opportunity to sample local Cambodian delicacies.

Embark on a half-day cycling tour that guides you through a typical Cambodian village. You’ll make various stops, offering you a genuine glimpse into local village life. Visit a duck farm, learn about rice cultivation, and savour local palm wine. In the evening, relish a farewell dinner with your group, where you can discuss and reminisce about the tour’s highlights.

After spending 20 days of revelling in some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes, it’s time to bid farewell to your companions.. Safe travels!