VIETNAM – CAMBODIA CRUISE: Mekong River Cruise Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap & Angkor Temples- 11 Days

Destinations:                             Ho Chi Minh City | My Tho | Vinh Long | Cai Be | Sa Dec | Chau Doc | Phnom Penh  | Koh Chen | Kampong Tralach | Kampong Chhnang | Siem Reap

Commences in:                       Ho Chi Minh City

Concludes in:                          Siem Reap

Tour Style:                               Small Boat Cruise (groups & couples)

Length:                                     11 days / 10 nights

Accommodation:                    Modern & Boutique boats

Meals:                                       Breakfasts; 10:  Lunches; 10:  Dinners; 10:

Leaders:                                   Professional local guides

Transportation:                       Private chauffeur driven air-conditioned vehicles and local transfers & Boats

Tour Grading:                          Moderate: Suitable for travellers with an above average level of fitness and mobility

•      An authentic, dynamic trip in small groups

•      EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

•      Discover 3 historical cities: Ho Chi Minh City, Phnom Penh and Siem Reap

•      Crossing through the splendid Cho Gao canal

•      Visit 4 major temples in Angkor

•      Meet the locals and learn about their daily lives in Koh Chen, My Tho...

•      THE MUSTS:

•      The hidden treasures of the Mekong by bike, kayak, sampan or on foot

•      Discover historic cities: Hô Chi Minh City & Phnom Penh

•      Meet the locals and discover their way of life in Sa Dec, Cai Be...

Day 1:    Ho Chi Minh City:    (D)

Welcome to Vietnam. Meet at the restaurant of the Hotel Liberty Riverside between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Meet follow travellers and enjoy a delicious local lunch.

After lunch, discover the highlights of vibrant Ho Chi Minh City on an engaging afternoon sightseeing tour that blends history, culture, and local life. Visit the iconic Reunification Palace, a powerful symbol of Vietnam’s modern history, before continuing to the elegant Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and the beautifully preserved Saigon Central Post Office, both outstanding examples of French colonial architecture. Continue onto lively Cholon, the city’s historic Chinatown, where bustling markets overflow with colour, spices, textiles, and everyday goods. Here, explore the atmospheric Thien Hau Temple, dedicated to the Sea Goddess and rich in traditional Chinese design and spiritual heritage. Later, transfer to your river cruise ship and settle comfortably into your cabin. Meet your friendly crew during a welcome cocktail reception before enjoying a delicious onboard dinner. Tonight, relax on board as the ship remains moored, marking the beginning of your unforgettable Mekong River cruise experience.

Day 2:    Ho Chi Minh City:    (B/L/D)

Enjoy a relaxing morning on board or join an excursion by coach to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, one of Vietnam’s most iconic historical sites. This vast underground network played a crucial role during the Vietnam War and offers a fascinating insight into wartime life and military strategy.

After lunch, discover Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage with a guided visit to the Museum of Vietnamese History, home to an impressive collection of artefacts spanning thousands of years of Vietnamese civilisation.

Later in the afternoon, return to the ship and begin your scenic Mekong Delta cruise through the picturesque Cho Gao Canal, a vital waterway connecting the Mekong Delta to Ho Chi Minh City. Enjoy the ever-changing river landscapes as you sail, before settling in for a relaxing evening and overnight stay on board.

Day 3:    Chao Gao – My Tho – Vinh Long – Cai Be:    (B/L/D)

Cruise along the bustling Cho Gao Canal and witness authentic Mekong Delta daily life, where fishing boats, riverside farming, and traditional river transport form the rhythm of local communities. This scenic stretch offers wonderful opportunities to observe Vietnam’s vibrant waterways and rural culture up close.

Arriving in My Tho, enjoy a visit to a local bee farm where you’ll sample fragrant honey tea and taste fresh, exotic tropical fruits—an authentic Mekong Delta cultural experience. Continue your journey with a relaxing ride aboard traditional sampans, gliding through narrow canals shaded by lush mangrove palms—one of the highlights of any Vietnam Mekong Delta cruise.

After lunch on board, travel to Vinh Long, perfectly situated between two branches of the mighty Mekong River. Here, discover the region’s rich artisan heritage with visits to traditional workshops producing handmade bricks and pottery, puffed rice, delicate rice-paper wrappers, and locally distilled rice alcohol—an immersive look into Vietnam’s traditional cottage industries.

Return to the ship in the late afternoon and relax as the day winds down, enjoying dinner and another peaceful overnight stay on your Mekong Delta river cruise.

Day 4:    Sa Dec:    (B/L/D)

Discover the literary and cultural heritage of Sa Dec with a visit to the historic Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House. This beautifully preserved residence once belonged to Huynh Thuy Le, the man who inspired the famous novel The Lover by acclaimed French author Marguerite Duras. The house offers a fascinating glimpse into colonial-era life and the real-life romance that captured international attention.

Following your guided visit, enjoy some free time in Sa Dec, a charming Mekong Delta town known for its colourful markets, riverside atmosphere, and traditional trading culture—perfect for soaking up authentic Vietnam local life.

Return to the ship and relax over lunch as your Mekong Delta river cruise continues towards Chau Doc, a lively border town near Cambodia. With a history dating back more than 300 years, Chau Doc offers a unique blend of Vietnamese, Khmer, and Chinese cultural influences.

Enjoy the peaceful rhythm of river life as you cruise, before settling in for another relaxing overnight stay on board your Mekong River cruise.

Day 5:    Chau Doc – Phnom Penh:  (B/L/D)

Wake to another memorable day on your Mekong River cruise as you arrive in the vibrant border town of Chau Doc, located near the frontier between Vietnam and Cambodia. Renowned for its thriving fishing industry and extensive floating fish farms, Chau Doc provides a fascinating insight into authentic Mekong Delta river life and traditional Vietnamese livelihoods.

During your guided excursion, visit the revered Ba Chua Xu Temple, one of the most important spiritual sites in southern Vietnam, followed by the beautifully decorated Tay An Pagoda, known for its unique blend of Vietnamese and Indian architectural influences. These sacred landmarks offer a deeper understanding of the region’s rich religious traditions and cultural heritage.

Return to the ship for lunch as your Mekong Delta cruise continues upstream towards the Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh. Arrive in the evening and enjoy dinner on board before setting out on a short orientation tour of the city by traditional tuk-tuk, one of the most popular and enjoyable ways to explore Phnom Penh’s lively streets and riverfront.

Your ship will remain docked overnight in Phnom Penh, allowing you to soak up the atmosphere of this dynamic city and prepare for further discoveries on your Vietnam and Cambodia river cruise adventure.

Day 6:    Phnom Penh:    (B/L/D)

Begin your day in Phnom Penh with a guided visit to the magnificent Royal Palace, the official residence of the King of Cambodia and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Inside the palace complex, explore the stunning Silver Pagoda, renowned for its extraordinary floor made up of more than 5,000 solid silver tiles and its priceless collection of Buddha statues. Continue your cultural journey at the National Museum of Cambodia, home to one of the world’s finest collections of Khmer art, sculpture, and archaeological treasures—offering a deeper insight into Cambodia’s rich Angkorian heritage and history.

Enjoy lunch in the city before an afternoon visit to the deeply moving Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (formerly Tuol Svay Prey School), once a detention, interrogation, and execution centre during the Khmer Rouge regime. This powerful site provides important historical context to Cambodia’s civil war and modern history.

Afterwards, unwind with free time at a local Phnom Penh market—perfect for exploring handicrafts, silk goods, and vibrant street culture.

Return to your ship for an evening of traditional entertainment, enjoying a captivating performance of classical Khmer dance and music. Dinner is served on board as your vessel remains docked overnight in Phnom Penh, giving you time to relax and enjoy the city at your leisure.

Day 7:    Koh Chen – Kampong Tralach:    (B/L/D)

Arrive in the charming island village of Koh Chen, known for its long-standing tradition of silver and copper craftsmanship in Cambodia. Here, local artisans continue to handcraft intricate metalwork using skills passed down through generations—an authentic glimpse into Mekong Delta river life and traditional Cambodian culture.

Return to your ship for lunch on board as you cruise along the scenic waterways of the Mekong River.

In the afternoon, continue to Kampong Tralach to visit the beautiful Wat Kampong Tralach Leu. Its serene Vihara (main sanctuary) is one of the region’s most atmospheric Buddhist sites, offering a peaceful insight into Cambodian spiritual heritage and temple architecture.

To reach the pagoda, journey through the heart of Kampong Tralach village along a quiet rural road set amidst lush, golden rice fields—an unforgettable experience showcasing authentic Cambodian countryside scenery and rural life.

Your ship will remain anchored overnight, allowing you to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings of your Mekong River cruise through Cambodia.

Rejoin the ship and continue sailing towards Kampong Chhnang, a region known for its riverside communities and traditional pottery craftsmanship. Enjoy dinner onboard as you relax and take in the peaceful scenery of the Mekong.

Day 8:    Kampong Chhnang – Tonle Sap River:    (B/L/D)

Today we explore Kampong Chhnang, one of the most important fishing hubs along the Tonle Sap River and gateway to the vast Tonle Sap Lake. This bustling riverside region is renowned for its extensive fish farming and floating fishing communities, offering a fascinating insight into everyday life on the water in Cambodia.

Kampong Chhnang is also celebrated for its centuries-old pottery traditions—it’s very name meaning “pot” in Khmer. Here, you’ll discover skilled artisans who continue to produce beautiful handmade ceramics using a blend of ancient techniques and modern methods, making it one of the best destinations for Cambodian traditional crafts and pottery villages.

Enjoy a tasting of regional specialties before returning to the ship for lunch on board as your Mekong and Tonle Sap river cruise continues its scenic journey.

In the evening, gather for your farewell cocktail and final dinner on board, celebrating the end of an unforgettable voyage through Vietnam and Cambodia. Your ship will remain anchored overnight, allowing you to relax and savour your last night on the river.

Day 9:    Siem Reap – Ankor Temples:    (B/L/D)

Disembark and transfer by road to Siem Reap, passing through traditional Cambodian villages along the way, offering a glimpse into authentic rural life.

Alternatively, enjoy a scenic morning cruise across Tonle Sap Lake before disembarking and continuing your journey to Siem Reap.

On arrival, visit the world-renowned Angkor Wat Temple, the crown jewel of Khmer architecture and the most iconic and impressive monument in the Angkor Archaeological Park. Please note: visitors are required to cover shoulders and wear long trousers or a long skirt when entering temple sites.

Later, explore the vibrant Angkor Night Market, where you can browse local crafts, souvenirs, and street food.

Dinner and overnight stay in Siem Reap. Accommodation will be in a carefully selected 4-star or 5-star hotel, depending on the cruise package chosen.

Day 10:    Siem Reap:   (B/L/D)

Enjoy a scenic boat excursion on Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, to discover the remarkable floating villages of Cambodia. Witness everyday life on the water as local communities live, work, and trade from stilted homes and floating houses—an unforgettable insight into traditional Tonle Sap Lake culture and heritage.

Return for lunch before visiting Senteurs d’Angkor, a renowned local artisan workshop and boutique. Here you’ll discover beautifully crafted silk products, intricate wood carvings, and a range of natural beauty products, aromatic spices, and handmade souvenirs—each reflecting authentic Cambodian craftsmanship and sustainable local production.

In the evening, experience the energy and creativity of Phare, The Cambodian Circus, a unique blend of theatre, acrobatics, music, and storytelling that showcases modern Cambodian art and social narratives.

After this unforgettable cultural experience, transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay in Siem Reap.

Day 11:    Siem Reap:    (B)

Begin your day exploring the atmospheric temple of Ta Prohm, one of the most iconic sites within the Angkor Archaeological Park. Famous for its dramatic tree-rooted ruins, Ta Prohm is a captivating example of ancient Khmer temple architecture in Cambodia, originally dedicated to the family of King Jayavarman VII.

Continue your journey to the legendary city of Angkor Thom, the last great capital of the Khmer Empire. Step into the heart of this ancient city as you explore the mesmerising Bayon Temple, renowned for its giant stone faces and intricate carvings that reflect the grandeur of the Angkor civilisation and Khmer history.

Discover the impressive Terrace of the Elephants and the mysterious Terrace of the Leper King, both important ceremonial platforms showcasing the artistic and architectural brilliance of ancient Cambodia.

Return to your hotel for lunch before your afternoon departure at approximately 2:00 p.m. Please ensure onward travel arrangements are scheduled no earlier than 5:00 p.m

Some guests may wish to stay another day or more in this amazing country. Please don’t hesitate to contact Boutique Tours & Travel for further travel arrangements.

PRICE INCLUDES:

•      All meals included

•      Onboard drinks included (except for drinks from our special lists)

•      Drinks during the lunches in Hô Chi Minh-city and Phnom Penh and all meals in Siem Reap (water + 1 soft drink or 1 beer* + 1 tea or coffee per person for each meal)

•      All port fees included

•      Headsets are included for excursions

•      Official welcome from the captain and crew

•      Onboard activities and/or lectures 

•      Services of an English-speaking local tour guides

•      Tour leader or cruise director on board

•      Transfer of the boat to downtown Siem Reap

•      Visits and excursions mentioned in the program

•      Refined local cuisine

•      Tips: To ensure our customers more pleasant stay, we’ve included 35€ per passenger for tips which will be entirely paid to the personnel from the countries to be visited and 45€ per passenger for crew members. This amount was determined while taking into consideration the local customs and etiquette.

Not included:

•   International and or Domestic air, ship or train fares

•   International and or Domestic air, ship or train transfers

•   Arrival / Departure Taxes, levies and other charges

•   Passport and visa fees

•   Cambodian and Vietnamese visas

•   Excess baggage charges

•   Cost of any ‘luggage delivery’ via FedEx or postal services

•   Personal travel insurance

•   Porterage, tipping and gratuities not included

•   Meals not included

•  Alcoholic beverages not included