Discover Vietnam & Cambodia

Home (6th February)

Depart Whanganui and make our way to Palmerston North airport to check in for our flight to Auckland. We’ll transfer over to the International Airport as a group and get set for our late night flight over to Ho Chi Minh City touching down mid-morning. Your flight includes meals and entertainment but it might also be a good idea to try and get some sleep if you can contain your excitement for what's ahead. 

Departing from another destination

For those departing from another destination you will be given your personalised itinerary for you to join the group today. All tickets and details will be provided in your personal information pack, sent prior to travel.

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Ho Chi Minh City (8th February)

After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, be ready for a 9am departure to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels.  This system was dug by the National Front for the Liberation of South Vietnam during the Indochina War and the Vietnam War.  

The underground tunnel system was a way for soldiers to move undetected and launch surprise attacks. The tunnel system is about 200 km long and includes a clinic, a kitchen, a storage room and an office and has ventilation systems into the bushes. The tunnels were built on the land known as "steel land", located at the end of the Ho Chi Minh Trail. During the 1968 Tet Offensive, the National Front for the Liberation of South Vietnam used this system of tunnels to attack Saigon. When visiting the Cu Chi tunnels, you will learn how Vietnamese guerrillas worked, built, lived and fought in the tunnels, watch precious documentaries about the war and how the Vietnamese army and people won against modern and advanced weapons with only the will of the nation.

We catch a Hop on Hop off bus this afternoon for a City Tour passing by many popular sites.

Later that evening we’ll head out and explore Ben Thanh Market for shopping and street food. (Dinner at own expense) We have a local guide who is with us for the entire journey to ensure we visit all the wonderful highlights of the area before heading to bed for a decent night's sleep.

Accommodation: Silverland Ben Thanh Hotel

Ho Chi Minh City (9th February)

We start the day with another great breakfast before boarding the bus and head into the Mekong Delta region to board our cruise vessel.

Settle in and get familiar with the boat before lunch then head out for a guided walk around a quaint little village and explore some orchards and rice fields.

Head back to our boat and settle for a well earned refreshment and watch the sunset on the top deck. We'll dine onboard and then rest our heads for the night ready for tomorrow's adventure.

Accommodation: Cruise Boat

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Mekong Delta Cruising (10th February)

We start the day with another great breakfast then hit the water. Cruising about in a traditional wooden sampan through the palm-shaded canals of the Mekong Delta. A quintessential Vietnamese experience. Gliding quietly through narrow tributaries lets you experience rural river life, stilt houses, and local cottage industries at a peaceful, meditative pace. 

We will also be treated to some Vietnamese folk music and visit a local family in Tan Phong who specialise in handicrafts. Following this you are welcome to head on a bicycle ride with Jase looking around the back roads or stroll through another village along the Mekong Canal.

We head back to the boat for lunch and head down river where this afternoon you can simply relax onboard the boat or hop off and immerse yourself in another local village where you find welcoming locals and plenty to see and do with your guide alongside you.

Another wonderful dinner is served onboard before we return to our rooms for the night.

Accommodation: Cruise Boat

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Mekong Delta Cruising (11th February)

We start the day with another great breakfast before an excursion on a long sampan to the famous Cai Rang Floating Market. The largest floating market in the Mekong Delta. With a history dating back to the early 20th century, the market emerged as a crucial trading hub before the development of roads and bridges,

Head back and say farewell to our boat crew then board the bus and travel by road to Chau Doc. Lunch will be provided throughout our journey. 

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Chau Doc (12th February)

Enjoy breakfast before we start a really unique experience travelling by speed boat to Phnom Penh. Relax inside or hop up on the roof as we make our way to Titanic Port to meet our driver and guide.

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Phnom Penh (13th February)

After breakfast, we visit the Royal Palace, one of Cambodia’s most important historical landmarks and the official residence of the King. Then continue to the Silver Pagoda, famous for its magnificent collection of Buddha statues crafted from gold, silver, diamonds, and precious stones.

Visit the Independence Monument, built to commemorate Cambodia’s independence from France, followed by a visit to Wat Ounalom, one of the country’s most important Buddhist monasteries.

Break for lunch at a local restaurant. Transfer to Phnom Penh International Airport for your domestic flight to Siem Reap.

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Siem Reap (14th February)

After breakfast, we begin a full-day exploration of the Angkor Archaeological Park. Visit the magnificent Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world and Cambodia’s most famous UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Continue to Thommanon and Chau Say Pagoda before entering the ancient city of Angkor Thom through its impressive South Gate. Explore Bayon Temple, renowned for its giant stone faces, followed by the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, Terrace of the Elephants, and Terrace of the Leper King.

After lunch, continue to Ta Keo, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Kdei. Ta Prohm is particularly famous for its giant tree roots intertwined with ancient temple ruins.Visit Srah Srang, the former royal bathing reservoir, before ending the day with a spectacular sunset view from Phnom Bakheng Hill.

After a truly unforgettable day we’ll dine at a local restaurant then head to our hotel for a well earned rest.

‍Accommodation: Sokha Palace Hotel

Siem Reap (15th February)

Rise and shine for breakfast at the hotel. This morning we will be transferred to the airport for our flight to Da Nang.

We'll stop for lunch before a short drive down to Hoi An and check into our hotel where you can relax, have a swim or head out for a stroll around town. We have the next 3 nights at this truly fabulous accommodation.

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Hoi An (16th February)

This morning after breakfast we make our way to the popular Red Bridge Cooking School, which is situated along the banks of the Thu Bon River, just 3 kms from central Hoi An. This is a must-do activity while we are here in Hoi An.

Highlights include a guided tour of Hoi An’s colourful central market, a relaxing Boat Trip on the Hoi An River, and a hands-on Cooking Class.  We then spend the afternoon exploring more of the Ancient Town where you can shop, get some tailor made clothes, visit a local bar and just soak up this pretty little town.

After a little rest we’ll meet up again for a fabulous group dinner.

Once again Rickshaw transport can be arranged for those needing a ride instead of walking.

Accommodation: Sen Village Hoi An

Hoi An (17th February)

Today will be a truly memorable day as we mix and mingle with the locals and learn about their innovative ways in which they live in their everyday life.

After another lovely breakfast it’s onto the Water Coconut Forest in Cam Thanh village to discover the peaceful coconut forest. We are welcomed warmly by the local people here and enjoy some fun activities at the village such as: Basket Boat Spinning, Catching Crabs, Casting the Fishing net and learning how to Paddle a Basket Boat with the fisherman. Do as much or as little as you like in what is sure to be a fun filled experience with many laughs along the way.

A delightful lunch is lined up today along with a special treat where you experience a traditional Vietnamese foot massage.

Return to our hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Relax by the pool, explore nearby areas independently, or simply enjoy the resort facilities.

Accommodation: Sen Village Hoi An

Hoi An (18th February)

Grab some breakfast and check-out, we have a short drive to the Thanh Ha Pottery Village.

Visit this traditional craft village and discover the history and techniques of local pottery making. Meet local artisans and enjoy a hands-on pottery experience where you can create your own pottery piece under the guidance of skilled craftsmen. Learn about the importance of pottery in Vietnamese culture and daily life while exploring the village workshops.

After the visit, continue to Da Nang City which again is only a short drive away and we’ll break for lunch.

Da Nang (19th February)

After breakfast it's time for another special highlight of our tour. We board the Heritage Train and make our way to Hue. The route crosses the spectacular Hai Van Pass, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful coastal railway journeys in the world, where majestic mountains meet the endless blue sea.

This will be a train trip to remember so make sure you have your camera ready to go!

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Hue (20th February)

After breakfast, we begin our exploration of Hue's rich imperial history with a visit to the magnificent Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former seat of the Nguyen Dynasty. Wander through ancient palaces, royal courtyards, and historic gates while learning about the fascinating history of Vietnam's last imperial dynasty.

Following lunch, experience the city's charm from a different perspective with a traditional Rickshaw Ride through Hue's tree-lined streets, bustling local markets, and historic neighborhoods.

In the evening we’ll enjoy dinner before boarding a traditional dragon boat cruise along the romantic Perfume River to visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the most recognizable landmarks in Central Vietnam. Sit back and enjoy a captivating Ca Hue performance as talented local musicians and singers present this elegant royal-inspired folk music, a cherished cultural tradition unique to Hue. This enchanting evening offers a wonderful insight into the city's rich heritage and provides the perfect ending to a day exploring Vietnam's former imperial capital.

Accommodation: Sai Gon Morin Hue

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Hue (21st February)

After breakfast, we depart Hue by coach for the scenic journey to Phong Nha in Quang Binh Province.

Passing through peaceful countryside, coastal landscapes, and rural villages in Central Vietnam. Along the way, we'll stop at a small local restaurant for lunch, offering a chance to enjoy authentic Vietnamese cuisine and experience a more traditional side of the region. As this is a less touristy area, dining options are simple but fresh, authentic, and popular with local people. After lunch, we continue our journey to our beautiful lakeside accommodation.

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Quang Binh (22nd February)

After breakfast we hit the road and board a boat and cruise on the Son River to visit Phong Nha cave. 

Be treated to amazing scenery with self designed houses, churches, limestone mountains covered with evergreen trees and view the herds of water buffalos grazing by the river. When we reach the cave’s mouth the boat’s engine is shut down and we weave our way into the big cave where you can push your imagination to its limit seeing the beauty of stalactites and stalagmites in various shapes and colours that will simply blow your mind! A truly superb experience!

After lunch we make our way out to the Rice Fields to meet a wonderful family and visit their house and farm. Mingle with the lovely locals and get involved in some pretty unique options such as Riding Buffaloes and Herding Ducks. This is a very memorable and emotional visit meeting the family and in particular the father who fought in the Vietnam war and has the scars to prove it!

We head back to our lovely accommodation and get set for another memorable meal together.

Accommodation: Phong Nha Lakehouse Eco Resort

Quang Binh (23rd February)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before transferring to the airport for your flight to Hanoi.

Hanoi (24th February)

No trip so Vietnam would be complete without a visit to Ha Long Bay. So head down for breakfast and get set to depart. NOTE: We are returning to this hotel so you could just take an overnight bag for the night away.

We have a short break in Hai Duong Province before arriving and then transferred by speedboat to Rita Cruise. Enjoy a welcome drink, meet the captain and indulge in a Vietnamese seafood buffet or set menu lunch, while cruising in the magnificent Halong Bay, admiring the fascinating rock formations in the bay.

We sail through the calm emerald waters heading to Dark & Bright Cave (Hang Sang & Toi). Here you can choose between Kayaking or sitting on a Bamboo Boat for about 1 hour admiring the views!

Once back onboard enjoy a relaxed afternoon while waiting for sunset on Lan Ha Bay. Take advantage of the Happy hours “Buy 2 get 1 free” drink program at the Mimosa Cafe Lounge and the Sky bar!

You can join a brief but fun cooking class guided directly by the Chef. 

Relax and enjoy the sundeck before a fabulous dinner. After dinner, you have free time or can choose to participate in nightlife activities such as Squid Fishing, listen to music, enjoy drinks or Singing Karaoke!

Accommodation: 5 Star Rita Cruise

Ha Long Bay (25th February)

Wake up to a glorious morning view of the bay's landscape with a cup of tea or coffee then have breakfast at the restaurant. 

The ship moves to visit Frog Pond where the Hollywood blockbuster movie King Kong was filmed. You have some time to relax before enjoying an early buffet lunch while cruising towards the port before you bid farewell to the amazing crew!

Travel back to Hanoi and later in the afternoon, we’ll enjoy a traditional Water Puppet Show, a unique Vietnamese art form that reflects the culture and daily life of the Red River Delta.

After the performance, we’ll head to a local restaurant for our final group dinner featuring authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

The remainder of the evening is at your leisure.

Accommodation: Signature by M Village Tho Nhuom

Hanoi (26th February)

A relaxed start to the day as we don’t need to check in until mid morning before we catch our flight home. We have a stop in Kuala Lumpur before boarding again for our final leg back to NZ. Once we land in Auckland we transfer over to the Domestic Terminal to catch our flight to Palmerston North.

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