GRAND INDOCHINA TOUR IN FOCUS – 16 DAYS

* BRIEF ITINERARY:

DAY 1: ARRIVAL – HO CHI MINH CITY SIGHTSEEING TOURS

DAY 2: SAIGON FULL-DAY SIGHTSEEING TOURS

DAY 3: SAI GON SIGHTSEEING TOURS TO TAY NINH – CU CHI TUNNELS

DAY 4: SAI GON SIGHTSEEING TOURS TO MEKONG DELTA – CAN THO

DAY 5: CAN THO – FLIGHT TO DA NANG – HOI AN SIGHTSEEING TOURS

DAY 6: HOI AN OVERLAND TOURS VIA DA NANG TO HUE

DAY 7: HUE FULL-DAY SIGHTSEEING TOURS

DAY 8: HUE – FLIGHT TO HANOI – HANOI SIGHTSEEING TOURS

DAY 9: HA NOI SIGHTSEEING TOURS TO HA LONG BAY

DAY 10: HA LONG BAY CRUISE TOURS TO HA NOI, FLIGHT TO LUONG PRABANG

DAY 11: LUANG PRABANG CITY TOURS

DAY 12: LUANG PRABANG SIGHTSEEING TOURS TO PAKOU CAVE

DAY 13: LUANG PRABANG – FLIGHT TO SIEM REAP AND ANGKOR WATT

DAY 14: ANGKOR WATT SIGHTSEEING TOURS

DAY 15: ANGKOR WATT SIGHTSEEING TOURS

DAY 16: SIEM REAP DEPARTURE

DAY 1: Indochina Tour from Saigon, Mekong Delta to Luang Prabang, Siemreap: ARRIVAL – HO CHI MINH CITY SIGHTSEEING TOURS (-/-/-) 

On arrival at Tan San Nhat Airport, you are met and transferred to hotel for check-in. The bustling Ho Chi Minh City, still called Saigon by many locals, is a center of commerce, finance, culture and tourism in Vietnam. This metropolis, contradiction of its northern counterpart is crowded with bikes, motorbikes and excited by numerous shopping areas and sidewalk cafes.

If time permits, we stroll around the downtown to explore the different local ways of life

O/N in Ho Chi Minh City.

DAY 2: Indochina Tour from Saigon, Mekong Delta to Luang Prabang, Siemreap: SAIGON FULL-DAY SIGHTSEEING TOURS (B/-/-)

Today is spent discovering our bustling and friendly city. You will be excited to view the daily life of local people with the crowded bikes and motorbikes on the way. First, tour in Saigon’s China Town, then learn about traditional Vietnamese medicine at the FITO Museum and browse through the amazing array of goods at Ben Thanh Market.

Stop for lunch then continue on the city tour with a visit to the War Remnants Museum and former Presidential Palace. Finally, stop at the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Old Post Office to admire the city’s French colonial architecture before finding the way back to the hotel to conclude the day.

O/N in Ho Chi Minh City.        

DAY 3: Indochina Tour from Saigon, Mekong Delta to Luang Prabang, Siemreap: SAI GON SIGHTSEEING TOURS TO TAY NINH – CU CHI TUNNELS (B/-/-)

This morning we head out for Tay Ninh to witness the noon services of adherents to Caodai Sect in a beautiful edifice called Holy Temple. Next, we pay a visit to Cu Chi, an incredible underground tunnel network constructed by Vietnamese resistance fighters during the Vietnam War. Known as the “Iron Triangle” during the war of the 60’s, the story of Cu Chi is one of struggle, determination against all odds, and eventual victory. Now the tunnels are a major site of interest for tourists and historians, and those interested in Vietnam’s military history. It is advisable to wear clothes which you won’t mind getting dirty if you intend to be adventurous and go underground yourself! At the end of the day we return to Saigon for resting.

O/N in Ho Chi Minh City.        

DAY 4: Indochina Tour from Saigon, Mekong Delta to Luang Prabang, Siemreap: SAI GON SIGHTSEEING TOURS TO MEKONG DELTA – CAI BE- CAN THO (B/L/-)

Rise up early today and after having breakfast, travel 105 km south to Cai Be, the gateway to Mekong delta. On arrival, embark on a boat to cruise along the Mekong River visiting the floating markets, where you can admire displays of fruits and vegetables. Explore islands, stopping at the family factories where you can see how the delicious coconut candies, popcorns, poprice and so on are prepared. Enjoy your lunch with the special local fish “elephant ear” in a bonsai garden or in an old house.

After lunch, continue your trip by a small sampan ride through the shady canals to Vinh Long. You will cross over the parkway many small boats carrying fruits, vegetables, fish. Parkway in orchards, tasting tropical fruits. In the late afternoon, transfer by road to Can Tho, the center of the Mekong Delta. Can Tho is also named as the Capital of the West, located at the edge of Hau Giang, arm the southern Mekong. Dinner.

In the evening, after dinner it’s advisable to stroll on the Ninh Kieu Dock, bordering the river.

Overnight in Can Tho.

DAY 5: Indochina Tour from Saigon, Mekong Delta to Luang Prabang, Siemreap: CAN THO FLOATING MARKET- FLIGHT TO DA NANG – HOI AN SIGHTSEEING TOURS (B/-/-)

Morning boat trip to the floating markets of Cai Rang, then continuation to the discovery of small channels through the islands covered with lush flora.

Check out of hotel after breakfast then, we’ll take a short domestic flight coded VJ 702 departing @ 9:55 -11:25 to Da Nang (daily flight). Meet up with our local guide upon arrival and drive along the scenic coast to the quaint town of Hoian. Check in the hotel and have a short break then.

In the afternoon, we’ll be on foot to explore the ancient quarter of Hoian, visiting the Japanese covered bridge, an old merchant house, a Chinese Assembly hall, and the Culture Museum. Hoian is a charming place that manages to retain Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese and European influences from its unique and ancient history.

We’ll conclude the day with a boat ride along the romantic Thu Bon River while enjoying the sunset from aboard.

O/N in Hoi An.                  

DAY 6: Indochina Tour from Saigon, Mekong Delta to Luang Prabang, Siemreap: HOI AN OVERLAND TOURS VIA DA NANG TO HUE (B/-/-)

After having breakfast, you have free time at leisure on the beach or shopping at Hoi An. After that we will take a 4- hour drive to Hue via Da Nang where we’ll visit some beautiful places. Initially, we will take a visit to Cham Museum formerly known as the Ecole Francaise d’Extreme Orient. This museum contains many exquisite limestone carvings from the vanquished Kingdom of Champa which has been the central coastal littoral prior to the march of the Vietnamese nation southward.

Then a visit to Marble Mountains with its beautiful grottoes and temples whose peaks represent the five elements of the universe. Later on, we keep on rolling further northward to Hue. Upon arrival at Hue, our guide will escort you to the hotel for a check-in and you will have free time for having dinner and relax. 

Overnight at hotel in Hue

Day 7: Indochina Tour from Saigon, Mekong Delta to Luang Prabang, Siemreap: HUE FULL-DAY SIGHTSEEING TOURS (B/-/-)

After breakfast, we have a boat trip on the romantically named Perfume River visits Hue’s best-known religious site, Thien Mu Pagoda. The beautiful riverside Thien Mu Pagoda is one of the oldest ancient architectural structures for religious work ship in Hue. We include this in a half day cruise on the Perfume River which also gives us a taste of the scenic countryside and an enjoyable visit to the mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang in a tranquil setting of gardens and lakes.

This impressive landmark reflects the beautiful architecture, intricate decor and mysterious statues. Afterwards, we continue our sightseeing tour with the massive citadel named the Imperial Citadel where the Nguyen Dynasty ruled between 1802 and 1945 including Flag Tower, Noon Gate, Nine Dynastic Urns, Nine Holy Cannons, Thai Hoa Palace, and Forbidden Purple City.

Though this royal residence was all but destroyed during the 1968 Tet Offensive, it is still fascinating to walk among the ruins. Close to this masterpiece is Hue Imperial Museum which displays an interesting collections of bronzes, Chinaware, court robes and various emperors’ personal belongings

By the end of the day, we will have one more chance to take a glancing tour of Hue with a walk to the bustling Dong Ba Market that sells a wide variety of local goods and handicrafts. Along the way we pass many fantastic eating spots, all ideal for visitors to sample some local delicacies.

O/N in Hue.

DAY 8: Indochina Tour from Saigon, Mekong Delta to Luang Prabang, Siemreap: HUE – FLIGHT TO HANOI – HANOI SIGHTSEEING TOURS (B/L/-)

This morning we depart Hue by a late morning flight to Hanoi. Meet our new local guide at Hanoi airport and transfer to the city Centre. In the remainder of the day we’ll visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (outside), the Single Pillar Pagoda, the Temple of Literature. Then, we’ll enjoy a glance at the Old Quarter with a cyclo ride followed by the water puppet show which is the perfect introduction of Vietnamese Culture.

O/N in Hanoi.

DAY 9: Indochina Tour from Saigon, Mekong Delta to Luang Prabang, Siemreap: HA NOI TO HA LONG BAY (B/L/D) 

Heading out of town we drive towards Halong Bay, truly one of Vietnam‘s most scenic impressive sights. On arrival we are welcomed onboard a traditional junk. Settle into a private comfortable cabin and unpack for a two day cruise around Halong Bay. Along the way we enjoy a huge lunch served on board and admire the picturesque scenery of islands.

These limestone karst formations are littered with beaches, grottoes and beautiful caves. We will anchor for a leisurely swim in a secluded cove and an enjoyable visit to Sung Sot cave, one of the many hidden grottoes beneath towering cliffs. The remainder of day is for your own pleasure; observing the bay, lazing around the deck or simply soaking up the sunshine.

Overnight onboard

DAY 10: Indochina Tour from Saigon, Mekong Delta to Luang Prabang, Siemreap: HA LONG BAY CRUISE TOURS TO HA NOI- FLY TO  LUANG PRABANG (B/L)

The sailing junks navigating past over 3,000 limestone islands and outcrops jutting out of the clear and emerald water of the bay make for a marvelous scene. We have an option to get up early to observe the splendid landscape and see the fishermen on a morning catch. The huge breakfast is a perfect way to start our relaxing day. We weave our way past Man Head and Tortoise rocks.

These imposing islets are aptly named by their distinctive shapes. We cruise through Bai Tu Long and arrange our luggage to disembark at noon. We drive back to Hanoi, straight to the airport for the flight QV 314 @ 18:50-19:50 to Luang Prabang. On arrival you’ll be met and transferred to the hotel for overnight.

Overnight in Luong Prabang

DAY 11: Indochina Tour from Saigon, Mekong Delta to Luang Prabang, Siemreap: LUONG PRABANG CITY TOUR (B/L/-)

Early rise to take the fantastic opportunity to watch or participate in the unique daily morning ritual, where hundreds of saffron-clad monks walk in procession collecting offerings of sticky rice from devout residents along the roadsides.

After breakfast we embark on a cruise upstream on the Mekong River to the mysterious Pak Ou, two linked caves crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by devoted pilgrims. We also visit Ban Xangkhong and Ban Xienglek where local people produce traditional textiles and jute paper.

Return to town and tour the most outstanding temples: Wat Visoun with the watermelon-shaped roof, Wat Xiengthong with the sweeping roofs, Wat Sene boasting the most dazzling facade of all Luang Prabang temples, Wat Aham – the “Monastery of the blossomed Heart”, and Wat Mai – the largest and most richly decorated of the temples in town.

We then challenge the steps up Mount Phousi for an enjoyable exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa as well as a beautiful sunset view. Take a leisurely walk through the iridescent Night Market at the foot of Mount Phosi to see a lovely array of handicrafts.

Overnight in Luong Prabang

DAY 12: Indochina Tour from Saigon, Mekong Delta to Luang Prabang, Siemreap: LUANG PRABANG CITY TOURS (B/-/-)

After breakfast we go to Phosi Market to see a dazzling array of local produces including dried buffalo skin, saltpeter, livestock, hill-tribe clothing, and so on. Continue to the villages of Ban Ouay, Ban Ou and Ban Thapene and get acquainted with the Hmong, Lowland Laotian, and Khmu ethnic minority people. Visit the beautiful Khouangsi Waterfall that offers a chance to cool off in the turquoise pools.

En route back to town we call at Ban Phanom village to visit skilled hand-weaving women. Soak in the history of Luang Prabang at the Palace Museum which houses an eclectic collection, including statues, mosaic covered walls, French mirrors, and a piece of moon rock given to “the people of Laos” by President Nixon. There’ll be time for independent exploration afterwards.

Overnight in Luong Prabang

DAY 13: Indochina Tour from Saigon, Mekong Delta to Luang Prabang, Siemreap: LUANG PRABANG- SIEM REAP (B/-/D)

After breakfast, enjoy your free time until the transfer to the airport for the flight QV 513 @ 10:40-14:10 to Siem Reap. Meet up with your local guide at Siem Reap airport and drive straight to Pour Krom. Walk through this lovely village to see rural Khmer life. Experience an ox cart ride before a cruise on Tonle Sap Lake to see floating villages and get a taste of life ruled by monsoonal rains and water-based agriculture.

One of the most productive bodies of fresh water in the world, Tonle Sap was classified as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1997. This evening we’ll be honored our guests the local dinner with Apsara dance show. Free time afterwards allows a good walk along the lively Pub Street and the lucky Night Market.

Overnight in Siem Reap

DAY 14: Indochina Tour from Saigon, Mekong Delta to Luang Prabang, Siemreap: SIEM REAP SIGHTSEEING TOUR (B/-/-)

Today is spent discovering the fascinating temples. First with a visit to Angkor Wat complex. This architectural masterpiece was constructed in the 12th century and covers an area of about 210 hectares. We’ll stroll around this massive edifice, seeing the many galleries with columns, libraries, pavilions, courtyards and ponds full of water reflecting the towering temple and then you will get the blessing ceremony in temple of in Angkor Wat complex conducted by the monk master to release your bad luck and bring you the happiness, good luck for your trip in Cambodia, and the best success in life/love/business.

Afternoon visit to the wondrous ancient ruins with the South Gate of Angkor Thom, which is famous for its series of colossal human faces carved in stone, the impressive Bayon Temple, the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, the Elephant Terrace, the Terrace of the Leper King.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

DAY 15: Indochina Tour from Saigon, Mekong Delta to Luang Prabang, Siemreap: SIEM REAP SIGHTSEEING TOUR (B/-/-) 

After breakfast at hotel, you will visit to the ancient Khmer civilization site of Hariharalaya which flourished in the late 9th and earlier 10th centuries. These are the earliest temples in the Angkor area and are referred to the Rolous group.

Lunch at a local house with the villagers. After lunch, you continue to the intricately carved and well-preserved temple of Banteay Srei and before going back to hotel we’ll visit the National Museum which is the best review and reflection to what you have recently seen all around Siem Reap.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

DAY 16: Indochina Tour from Saigon, Mekong Delta to Luang Prabang, Siemreap: SIEM REAP DEPARTURE

After breakfast, enjoy your free time until transfer to the airport for your departure flight home.

End of Service!!

=> Please take a note that we are now in a process of updating the cost for this tour & this work will be completed soon after a time. If you need further details on our updated quotes, kindly email us at sales@dnqtravel.com !

* INCLUDING:

• Transportation in private air-conditioned vehicle with driver
• Domestic Air-tickets: Can Tho – Da Nang, Hue – Ha Noi, Luang Prabang – – Siem Reap
• Accommodation in hotels (Twin / Double shared room) 
• Meals as indicated: B = breakfast, L = lunch & D = Dinner
• Regional English or French speaking guide
• Entrance fee to indicated sights
• Boat trip in Mekong, Hue, Hoi An
• Cruising trip in Ha Long Bay
• Pure bottled water & wipes
• Visa Approval Letter to Vietnam

* EXCLUDING:

International flights in/out (Ha Noi – Luong Prabang) ( Siem Reap – ), Other meals, tip, drinks, airport tax, single room, personal expenses, insurance,…