9 Days Vietnam and Cambodia Highlights Tour

Embark on an exhilarating 9-day Vietnam and Cambodia Highlights Tour, a perfectly crafted journey by Golden Trail Travel designed to showcase the most iconic and essential experiences of these two captivating Southeast Asian nations. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive yet time-efficient exploration of historical grandeur, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant cultural encounters. From the bustling streets of ancient capitals to the serene waters of a natural wonder and the mystical ruins of a powerful empire, every day promises a new discovery.

Your adventure begins in Hanoi, the thousand-year-old capital of Vietnam, a city renowned for its rich history, French colonial architecture, and lively street scenes. You'll immerse yourself in the charming Old Quarter, discover the tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake, and explore significant cultural landmarks such as the Temple of Literature. A definite highlight of your Vietnamese exploration will be an unforgettable Halong Bay cruise, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Imagine sailing through emerald waters, passing by thousands of towering limestone karsts and islets that emerge dramatically from the sea. You’ll enjoy an overnight stay on a traditional junk boat, complete with delicious fresh seafood, opportunities for kayaking through hidden lagoons, and exploring mystical caves, all while witnessing breathtaking sunsets and sunrises over this iconic natural wonder.

From the northern charm, your 9-day Vietnam Cambodia tour then takes you south to the vibrant Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), a dynamic metropolis pulsating with energy and historical significance. Here, you'll delve into the city's rich past by visiting landmarks such as the Reunification Palace, the striking French colonial Notre Dame Cathedral, and the historic Central Post Office. A powerful and insightful excursion awaits with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an ingenious underground network that played a pivotal role during wartime, offering a profound understanding of Vietnam's resilience. Furthermore, you’ll journey to the lush Mekong Delta, often called the "rice bowl" of Vietnam. You’ll embark on a captivating boat trip along its intricate waterways, witnessing authentic riverside life, visiting local workshops, and experiencing the unique charm of its floating markets (where applicable).

Finally, your Vietnam and Cambodia highlights journey transitions to the ancient kingdom of Cambodia, arriving in Siem Reap, the gateway to the legendary Angkor Archaeological Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the remnants of the powerful Khmer Empire and promises to leave you in awe. Prepare to be mesmerized by the sheer scale and intricate artistry of Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, especially magical during sunrise or sunset. You'll delve deeper into the park, exploring the enigmatic smiling faces of Bayon Temple within the ancient walled city of Angkor Thom, and wandering through the atmospheric, root-entwined ruins of Ta Prohm. This carefully curated Southeast Asia highlights tour is designed to provide maximum impact in just nine days, ensuring you experience the very best of both countries with Golden Trail Travel

Vietnam Highlights:

• Hanoi - Cultural Capital Exploration:

  • Old Quarter Immersion: Wander through the labyrinthine "36 Streets" of Hanoi's Old Quarter, a sensory feast of bustling markets, traditional crafts, and vibrant street life. Discover hidden pagodas and charming colonial architecture.

  • Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple: Enjoy the serene beauty of the Sword Lake and visit the iconic Ngoc Son Temple, steeped in local legends and accessible via a picturesque red bridge.

  • Temple of Literature: Explore Vietnam's first national university, a beautiful example of traditional Vietnamese architecture and a symbol of Confucian scholarship.

  • Water Puppet Show: Delight in a traditional Vietnamese water puppet performance, a unique and ancient art form that uses the water as a stage to depict folk tales and rural life.

• Halong Bay - UNESCO Natural Wonder Cruise:

  • Overnight Cruise Experience: Embark on an unforgettable overnight stay aboard a traditional, comfortable junk boat, navigating the breathtaking emerald waters of Halong Bay.

  • Limestone Karsts & Islets: Marvel at the thousands of towering limestone formations that majestically rise from the sea, creating a mystical and otherworldly landscape.

  • Cave Exploration: Discover magnificent stalactites and stalagmites within one of Halong Bay's spectacular caves, such as the famous Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave).

  • Kayaking & Swimming: Enjoy opportunities for kayaking through hidden lagoons and grottos, or take a refreshing swim in the bay's calm, clear waters amidst stunning scenery.

  • Sunset & Sunrise Views: Witness spectacular sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors and tranquil sunrises over the bay, offering unparalleled photographic opportunities.

• Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) - Southern Dynamism:

  • City Landmarks Tour: Explore key historical sites including the Reunification Palace, the striking French colonial architecture of Notre Dame Cathedral, and the historic Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel.

  • War Remnants Museum: Gain a powerful and poignant understanding of the Vietnam War through compelling exhibits and photographic records.

  • Ben Thanh Market: Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market, a fantastic place for souvenir hunting, local handicrafts, and sampling delicious street food.

• Cu Chi Tunnels - Historical Insight:

  • Underground Network: Explore the ingenious and extensive Cu Chi Tunnels, a crucial underground network used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War.

  • Guerrilla Warfare Tactics: Learn about the daily life of soldiers living underground, witness clever booby traps, and understand the remarkable tactics of guerrilla warfare.

• Mekong Delta - Riverine Life & Landscapes:

  • Boat Cruise: Embark on a captivating boat trip through the intricate waterways of the Mekong Delta, observing the unique riverine lifestyle.

  • Local Industries: Visit traditional cottage industries producing coconut candy, rice paper, or honey, and learn about local crafts and delicacies.

  • Tropical Fruit Orchards: Enjoy fresh tropical fruits straight from the source and experience the lush, fertile landscapes that define the delta.

  • Sampan Ride: Experience a peaceful ride on a traditional wooden sampan through narrow canals lined with water coconut trees.

Cambodia Highlights (Siem Reap & Angkor):

• Angkor Archaeological Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site):

  • Angkor Wat: Witness the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world and a masterpiece of Khmer architecture. Explore its magnificent bas-reliefs and towering spires, truly magical during sunrise or sunset.

  • Angkor Thom: Discover the ancient walled city of Angkor Thom, a vast complex of temples and structures.

  • Bayon Temple: Marvel at the enigmatic smiling faces carved into the towers of Bayon Temple, a unique and captivating architectural wonder within Angkor Thom.

  • Ta Prohm (Tomb Raider Temple): Explore the atmospheric ruins of Ta Prohm, where massive tree roots dramatically intertwine with ancient stone structures, creating a mystical and haunting ambiance.

  • Other Temples: Depending on the itinerary and your preferences, explore other significant temples within the park, each offering unique insights into Khmer artistry and belief systems.

• Cambodian Cultural Immersion:

  • Apsara Dance Show (Optional): Consider enjoying a mesmerizing traditional Apsara dance performance with dinner, showcasing graceful movements and elaborate costumes, reflecting Khmer mythology and culture.

  • Local Markets: Explore bustling local markets in Siem Reap, a vibrant sensory experience where you can find unique Cambodian handicrafts and sample authentic Khmer street food

HOTELS
Economy 2*+ Hotels
Superior 3* Hotels
First Class 4* Hotels
Deluxe 5* Hotels
Luxury 5*++ Hotels

Notes:
*All prices are based on per adult, in Double/Twin sharing
Surcharge will be applied for single traveler or single room request

Important Notes:
HOTELS, PROGRAMS & SCHEDULES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE

GUIDE/LEADER:
English speaking guide. French , Germany , Spanish, Italian, Russian  speaking guide can be arranged with on request.

Your Dream Indochina holiday, Crafted Just for You Across Asia

At Golden Trail Travel, we believe every getaway should be as unique as the traveler. As Asia's premier Indochina holiday tour operator, we specialize in creating bespoke coastal experiences that perfectly match your desires and budget, wherever your wanderlust takes you.

Our dedicated team—comprising experienced local experts, reliable drivers, insightful tour consultants, and passionate travel specialists—is committed to ensuring your escape is seamless, relaxing, and truly unforgettable.

Whether you're exploring solo, enjoying a family getaway, or embarking on a group expedition, we're here to design a trip that's exclusively yours. The itineraries you see are just a starting point; consider them a canvas upon which we'll paint your ideal Asian Indochina holiday. We invite you to share your ideas, tell us your preferences, and let us know your budget. We'll meticulously customize an existing itinerary or craft a brand-new program from the ground up, adding or excluding elements until it's absolutely perfect for you.

Ready to start planning your dream Indochina holiday across Asia? Share your requirements with us today, and let's create memories that will last a lifetime.