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Peregrine Travel Centre

Best of Cambodia & Vietnam

Best of Cambodia & Vietnam

From $ 3,375 AUD

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Description

Take a fast-paced and far-flung adventure through the heart of Vietnam and Cambodia. On this journey with a small group of likeminded travellers, you’ll spend 17 days traversing the diverse South East Asian countryside through local villages, past stunning coastlines and into bustling cities. Beginning in Bangkok, mingle with the locals and indulge in some delicious cuisine while making your way through Cambodia and traversing Vietnam from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi. Admire the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Angkor temple complex and learn about life in a floating village before continuing to explore Mekong Delta, wander the ancient town of Hoi An, spend a night on the gorgeous Ha Long Bay and eat all the Bahn mi you can handle. With so much to see, learn and eat – what are you waiting for?

Trip Name
Best of Cambodia & Vietnam
Last Updated
1970-01-01
Days
17
Capacity
16
Highlights
  • Let a local expert bring Cambodia’s ancient history to life as you temple-hop at the Angkor complex – one of South East Asia's most stunning attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Learn the confronting yet important history of Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek in Phnom Penh.
  • Spend an unforgettable night on a traditional junk boat in Ha Long Bay – one of Vietnam’s most remarkable natural wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage site – and maybe go kayaking between the karsts for a different perspective.
  • Sample local food wherever you go – from a seafood dinner on Ha Long Bay, a meal at a Buddhist monastery, coconut candy in the Mekong Delta and dinner at KOTO restaurant, you won’t go hungry!
  • Visit some of the must-see sights with your small group on walking tours in Hoi An and the Temple of Literature in Hanoi, as well as plenty of free time to make your own local discoveries.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. , OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and may be on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Day 1 - Bangkok
Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand. Your adventure begins in Bangkok with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. This city has so much to offer, so it’s recommended you stay at least a few extra days – if you have time to explore, maybe take a riverboat to Chinatown to wander the crowded streets, uncover the magnificent Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, visit Wat Pho (home to the country's largest reclining Buddha), wander down neon-lit Khao San Road, or treat yourself to a Thai massage. After the meeting, you might like to gather your fellow travellers and tuck into some world-renowned street food.
Day 2 - Siem Reap
Today, you’ll fly from Bangkok to Siem Reap. You’ll be unaccompanied on the flight, but your Thai trip leader will see you off in Bangkok and your Cambodian leader will be ready to welcome you in Siem Reap. Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor Wat, is the most popular destination for travellers in all of Cambodia (maybe even in all of South East Asia!). You'll probably notice a change of pace here, so maybe take a walk and enjoy the atmosphere. You could start by hitting the local markets to try some delicious street food – ask your leader for recommendations on the best local specialties to try.
Day 3 - Siem Reap
Spend a full day temple-hopping with your local guide, making the most of your visit to the world-famous Angkor complex – built between the 9th and 13th centuries when the Khmer empire was the dominant influence in South East Asia. The ruins are scattered over some 160 sq km, but the main cluster of temples is close to Siem Reap. This includes Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Prohm. These temples were believed to represent the cosmic world and were set in perfect balance, symmetry and composition. See the intricately carved bas-reliefs and architectural designs, which make for great photo opportunities. This is sure to be a highlight of your trip, so take your time to soak it all in and make the most of your local guide’s expert insight.
Day 4 - Siem Reap
This morning, hop on a private local boat and discover the local life in the floating village of Kampong Phluk on the edge of Tonle Sap Lake, also known as the Great Lake of Cambodia. The stilt houses here are built about 6-9 meters above the ground to accommodate water level changes between dry and wet seasons. Learn about the fascinating local lifestyle on the water and enjoy a hearty home-cooked lunch in one of the stilt houses. This afternoon, return to Siem Reap and enjoy a free evening.
Day 5 - Phnom Penh
Leave Siem Reap after breakfast and travel to Phnom Penh in a private minibus. The journey is a great opportunity to see rural Cambodia – you’ll make several stops along the way. Visit the cottage industry at Santuk Silk Farm, where local women are provided the opportunity for financial freedom to support their families. You’ll learn about the entire silk-making process, from the lifecycle of a silkworm to the final product. You’ll also stop at Skuon Market, where you might like to sample local specialties like deep-fried spiders. Cambodia's capital is set on a major junction of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers and boasts some fine examples of French-influenced architecture. This afternoon, enjoy some free time to discover the city at your own pace. Maybe explore Wat Phnom – a peaceful temple situated on a hill. A great way to see the city's key landmarks is on a cyclo tour, which generally covers the Psar Thmei (Central Market), US Embassy, Wat Phnom, Mekong riverfront, Independence Monument and Royal Palace.
Day 6 - Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh stands as a living relic of not only the country’s past successes, but also its struggles. Today, you’ll visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, which tell the story of the tragic legacy of the Khmer Rouge. S21 was formerly a school that was turned into a Khmer Rouge torture centre, and it’s estimated that more than 20,000 people were held and tortured here. The Killing Fields of Choeung Ek are home to a stupa made up of some 8000 human skulls, marking the execution ground for the torture victims of Tuol Sleng. After visiting both sites, you’ll have free time for the rest of the day. Maybe visit the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda. Alternatively, the National Museum, housed in a beautiful traditional building, is a great place to see some excellent Khmer craftsmanship. For a relaxing way to spend the late afternoon and evening, you could stroll along the famous Sisowath Quay and enjoy a coffee or cocktail at one of the many riverside cafes.
Day 7 - Ho Chi Minh City
This morning, travel by local bus from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City. Along the way, see the Neak Loeung Bridge, which is the biggest bridge in Cambodia, and then stop for lunch after immigration. You’ll arrive in Ho Chi Minh City in the late afternoon. Maybe get out and about on a self-guided walk to discover the city’s blend of old and new. Be sure to sample a banh mi (a crusty baguette filled with meat or tofu, vegetables and fresh herbs) or a glass of the famous Vietnamese coffee – both markers of the city's strong French influence.
Day 8 - Ho Chi Minh City
Today is a free day to explore Ho Chi Minh City at your own pace. You’ll have another welcome meeting at 6 pm. Before then, maybe head to Pham Ngu Lao Street to see the local open-aired market or take an Urban Adventure with an expert local guide. After the meeting tonight, why not get to know your new fellow travellers over an optional group dinner?
Day 9 - Ho Chi Minh City
Today you'll travel south by private minibus and spend the day exploring the Mekong Delta. Board a private boat and traverse the intricate waterways – soak up the tranquil surroundings as you float through this fertile landscape, often referred to as ‘the rice bowl of Vietnam’. Disembark at Ben Tre and visit the coconut gardens, stopping at a local home to sample tropical fruits and coconut jams before paddling in sampans (small rowing boats). Take a tuk-tuk tour around the villages, learning about rural life and how the locals make their living. Then, have lunch at a restaurant in the heart of the delta, sampling regional specialties like elephant ear fish. After the cruise, return via bus to Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 10 - Hoi An
This morning, say goodbye to Ho Chi Minh City and fly north to Danang. From here you’ll take a bus to Hoi An, with the five spectacular peaks of the Marble Mountains as a backdrop. Once in Hoi An, your leader will take you on a walking tour of the town, influenced over the years by Europe, China and Vietnam. The town was a major trading port from the 17th century onwards, and the outside influences can be seen all over its architecture, with pagodas and assembly halls found across the town. Wander the ancient streets that look much like they did over a century ago and take in a historic house (formerly home to a prominent trader), the Japanese Covered Bridge, a Chinese assembly hall and a museum. Then, your night is free to hit one of the waterside restaurants.
Day 11 - Hoi An
Enjoy a free day in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hoi An. You may like to wander the Central Market and the street stalls selling paintings, woodwork, ceramics, lanterns and much more. Hoi An is also famous for its talented tailors who can make beautiful items to order within a few hours. For those still feeling adventurous, why not hire a bicycle and tour the surrounding countryside? This is one of the best ways to get an insight into rural Vietnam. You also have the option to head out on a daytrip to My Son Cham – a UNESCO World Heritage-listed temple complex that reflects the rich cultural traditions of the Cham civilisation.
Day 12 - Hue
Leave Hoi An today and journey across the dramatic Hai Van Pass – a sometimes bumpy but incredibly scenic stretch of highway with views of Lang Co Beach. Make a quick photo stop on the way, then continue to Hue – the former imperial capital of Vietnam. When you arrive, visit a local village recycling hub dedicating their work to address their local environment challenges through recycling and try the local specialty – salt coffee, while you are here. Then join your leader for a tour of the Imperial Citadel – this fortress houses the Imperial City and the citadel-within-a-citadel, the Forbidden Purple City. This icon was almost completely destroyed during the Vietnam/American War, and the ruins and holes left by bombs are a reminder of the destruction that was caused. In your free time you might like to visit Dong Ba Market, which offers locally made goods, fresh produce and tantalising street food.
Day 13 - Hue
Today’s adventure will be on the back of a motorbike! You’ll have your own driver who will take you around the Imperial Citadel and Thien Mu Pagoda – the unofficial symbol of Hue. This site dates back to 1601 and is still an active Buddhist monastery. Here, you’ll also see the car left by a monk who set himself alight to protest the treatment of Buddhists by the South Vietnamese regime. Ride to a special lunch spot at a Buddhist monastery and sit down to a vegetarian feast, then drive to visit one of the royal tombs in Hue and enjoy the peacefulness. In the evening, board an overnight train to Hanoi.
Day 14 - Hanoi
Arrive in Hanoi early this morning and transfer to your hotel. Vietnam’s capital is famous for its beautiful lakes, shaded boulevards, public parks and beautiful Old Quarter. Soak up some free time to relax, then take a walking tour through the city. In your free time, maybe wander through the '36 Streets’ of the historic Old Quarter, chill out by the beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake, or visit the Fine Arts Museum. This museum plays a crucial role in maintaining and promoting the cultural heritage of Vietnam’s ethnic communities.
Day 15 - Halong Bay
Travel by private minibus to the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage site of Ha Long Bay. This is one of Vietnam’s most beautiful places, a secluded bay of emerald waters flecked with limestone islands and caves. Board a private boat and cruise the bay, exploring caves and beaches on the way. If you like, you can also take on an optional kayaking tour of the bay and see the gorgeous natural scenery from a different perspective. On board, there’ll be a dining room and bar where you’ll enjoy your meals, including fresh seafood for lunch and dinner. Spend the night on the boat, maybe having a drink with your fellow travellers at the bar, beneath a sky alive with starlight.
Day 16 - Hanoi
Wake up on the waters of Ha Long Bay – if you’re keen, you could watch the sunrise from the deck this morning, watching the bay come alive with eagles, fishermen and sunlight. Return by bus to Hanoi. This afternoon, you’ll have free time to explore Hanoi's sights or relax at a cafe. Maybe stop for a bia hoi (freshly brewed draught beer) at one of the microbars in the Old Quarter. Tonight, there will be a farewell dinner at KOTO restaurant – an organisation that supports disadvantaged youth with careers in the hospitality industry.
Day 17 - Hanoi
Today, your exploration of Vietnam comes to an end. There are no activities planned for today and you can leave at any time after checking out. If you’d like to extend your stay and explore Hanoi, and it’s recommended that you do, just reach out to your booking agent ahead of time.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
23-08-202608-09-2026AUD $ 3,495-
06-09-202622-09-2026AUD $ 3,795-
27-09-202613-10-2026AUD $ 3,650-
11-10-202627-10-2026AUD $ 3,595-
20-10-202605-11-2026AUD $ 3,595-
27-10-202612-11-2026AUD $ 3,640-
01-11-202617-11-2026AUD $ 3,780-
08-11-202624-11-2026AUD $ 3,695-
15-11-202601-12-2026AUD $ 3,785-
22-11-202608-12-2026AUD $ 3,695-
29-11-202615-12-2026AUD $ 3,595-
13-12-202629-12-2026AUD $ 3,490-
22-12-202607-01-2027AUD $ 3,595-
29-12-202614-01-2027AUD $ 3,785-
03-01-202719-01-2027AUD $ 3,375-
10-01-202726-01-2027AUD $ 3,375-
17-01-202702-02-2027AUD $ 3,405-
24-01-202709-02-2027AUD $ 3,475-
31-01-202716-02-2027AUD $ 3,430-
07-02-202723-02-2027AUD $ 3,575-
14-02-202702-03-2027AUD $ 3,645-
28-02-202716-03-2027AUD $ 3,990-
07-03-202723-03-2027AUD $ 3,575-
14-03-202730-03-2027AUD $ 3,475-
21-03-202706-04-2027AUD $ 3,475-
04-04-202720-04-2027AUD $ 3,475-
11-04-202727-04-2027AUD $ 3,475-
25-04-202711-05-2027AUD $ 3,375-
09-05-202725-05-2027AUD $ 3,375-
06-06-202722-06-2027AUD $ 3,375-
04-07-202720-07-2027AUD $ 3,375-
18-07-202703-08-2027AUD $ 3,375-
08-08-202724-08-2027AUD $ 3,375-
22-08-202707-09-2027AUD $ 3,375-
05-09-202721-09-2027AUD $ 3,475-
12-09-202728-09-2027AUD $ 3,475-
26-09-202712-10-2027AUD $ 3,475-
10-10-202726-10-2027AUD $ 3,475-
19-10-202704-11-2027AUD $ 3,575-
26-10-202711-11-2027AUD $ 3,575-
31-10-202716-11-2027AUD $ 3,575-
07-11-202723-11-2027AUD $ 3,575-
14-11-202730-11-2027AUD $ 3,645-
16-11-202702-12-2027AUD $ 3,645-
21-11-202707-12-2027AUD $ 3,645-
28-11-202714-12-2027AUD $ 3,645-
05-12-202721-12-2027AUD $ 3,575-
12-12-202728-12-2027AUD $ 3,575-
21-12-202706-01-2028AUD $ 3,575-
26-12-202711-01-2028AUD $ 3,475-
28-12-202713-01-2028AUD $ 3,475-
09-01-202825-01-2028AUD $ 3,545-
16-01-202801-02-2028AUD $ 3,650-
23-01-202808-02-2028AUD $ 3,650-
30-01-202815-02-2028AUD $ 3,650-
06-02-202822-02-2028AUD $ 3,755-
13-02-202829-02-2028AUD $ 3,825-
20-02-202807-03-2028AUD $ 3,755-
27-02-202814-03-2028AUD $ 3,755-
05-03-202821-03-2028AUD $ 3,755-
12-03-202828-03-2028AUD $ 3,650-
19-03-202804-04-2028AUD $ 3,650-
26-03-202811-04-2028AUD $ 3,650-
02-04-202818-04-2028AUD $ 3,650-
09-04-202825-04-2028AUD $ 3,545-
16-04-202802-05-2028AUD $ 3,545-
23-04-202809-05-2028AUD $ 3,545-
07-05-202823-05-2028AUD $ 3,545-
21-05-202806-06-2028AUD $ 3,545-
04-06-202820-06-2028AUD $ 3,545-
20-06-202806-07-2028AUD $ 3,545-
02-07-202818-07-2028AUD $ 3,545-
16-07-202801-08-2028AUD $ 3,545-
23-07-202808-08-2028AUD $ 3,545-
06-08-202822-08-2028AUD $ 3,545-
20-08-202805-09-2028AUD $ 3,545-
03-09-202819-09-2028AUD $ 3,650-
10-09-202826-09-2028AUD $ 3,650-
24-09-202810-10-2028AUD $ 3,650-
08-10-202824-10-2028AUD $ 3,650-
17-10-202802-11-2028AUD $ 3,755-
24-10-202809-11-2028AUD $ 3,755-
29-10-202814-11-2028AUD $ 3,755-
05-11-202821-11-2028AUD $ 3,755-
12-11-202828-11-2028AUD $ 3,825-
14-11-202830-11-2028AUD $ 3,825-
19-11-202805-12-2028AUD $ 3,825-
26-11-202812-12-2028AUD $ 3,825-
03-12-202819-12-2028AUD $ 3,755-
10-12-202826-12-2028AUD $ 3,755-
24-12-202809-01-2029AUD $ 3,755-

Accommodation

Hotel (14 nights), Overnight boat (1 night), Overnight sleeper train (1 night)

Transport

Boat, Overnight sleeper train, Plane, Public Bus, Private minibus, Taxi, Motorbike, Sampan, Tuk-tuk

Map

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