Uncover the hidden beauty of Vietnam - Cambodia in 21 days

Today, we'll dive deeper into Hanoi's rich culture and history through its most notable cultural sites and historical monuments:

• Explore the iconic Temple of Literature and Ba Dinh Square, steeped in feudal education and historic significance.
• Delve into the colonial heritage of French concessions.
• Discover the treasures of the Ethnographic Museum, a testament to the diverse cultures of Vietnam.
• Experience the unique art form of water puppetry, a beloved tradition in Vietnamese culture.

In the evening, we'll board the night train to Lao Cai, your gateway to the northeastern mountains. 
Relax and enjoy a restful night in your cozy cabin.

Wake up to the breathtaking scenery of Lao Cai, have breakfast at a local restaurant, then journey to Sapa, where adventure awaits:
Explore the the beauty of the terraced rice fields Muong Hoa valley and trek through the H'mong village of Lao Chai.
Continue your trek to the Giay ethnic village of Ta Van, surrounded by stunning landscapes.
After a day of exploration, return to Sapa for some well-deserved relaxation. 

Start your day with a visit to a local market and a tour of Cat Cat village in an electric car, one of the most prominent villages in Sapa. You’ll have the chance to:

• Explore the vibrant market scene, take colorful photos and talk to the locals to learn about local life.
• Trek through the scenic landscapes of Cat Cat village, engaging with locals and capturing colorful photos along the way.

Return to Hanoi in style aboard an EcoLuxury Bus, arriving in the evening (we arrive in Hanoi around 21:00) for a free night to explore the city or take a rest at your leisure.

Departure for Ninh Binh – the land of limestone karsts, sugarloaf mountains, and rice fields flooded by rivers and lakes throughout the year.

Arrival in Ninh Xuan, visit to Mua Mountain. Climb a 486-step white stone staircase to the summit of this bell-shaped mountain, which offers a panoramic view of the Tam Coc region.

A limestone mountain located near the rivers and sugarloaf mountains of Tam Coc. In the past, it was renowned for its dance performances for the kings of the Tran Dynasty (13th-14th century).

Afterward, transfer to Tam Coc for a bike ride and leisurely exploration of this fabulous region.

Explore a vast landscape featuring sugarloaf-shaped rock formations, rice paddies, and rivers. Enjoy boat rides on the Ngo Dong River, winding through the sugarloaf peaks, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the lush surrounding nature.

In the afternoon, enjoy a boat excursion on the Ngo Dong River to explore Tam Coc. This meandering river winds through rice paddies, sugarloaf formations, and passes under the three caves at the base of the limestone peaks.

Overnight stay in Ninh Binh.

Departure for Halong Bay, Vietnam's most beautiful bay and one of the most enchanting landscapes in Asia.

Upon arrival, board a traditional junk boat. You will be welcomed by the crew, and then the cruise begins in this stunning bay. Visit Bai Tu Long Bay, which is the northern part of Halong Bay.

We offer shared junks, which are often small in size with 10 to 12 cabins, accommodating around twenty people on board. You also have the option to choose a private cruise on a smaller junk with one or a few cabins for unforgettable experiences. Please contact us for this option.Admire the picturesque islands and islets with various shapes (sail, dog, rooster, incense...).

• Take a boat ride or kayak to explore the fishing village of Vung Vieng, where you might have a chance to meet local residents.
• In the late afternoon, relax on the upper deck of the junk.
• Participate in a culinary demonstration on board, where you can learn how to make spring rolls or other dishes.
• Enjoy delicious seafood for lunch and dinner.
• The evening is free for your personal relaxation and leisure: card games, night fishing, and more.
• Spend the night on board the junk.

Wake up early to enjoy a unique moment of splendor: the first rays of sun rising from the thousands of sugar loaves of the bay and participation in a Tai Chi session on the terrace.

Tai Chi, the art of deep relaxation, involves performing a series of slow, flowing, and circular movements.

Boat ride or kayaking to discover the fishing village of Vung Vieng, possible encounter with local inhabitants. Lunch on the junk, disembarkation, and return to Hanoi. Transfer to the airport for the flight to Danang.

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Danang, where you'll be greeted by a English-speaking guide and stay your night at your hotel in the charming city of Hoi An.

Kick off your day with a leisurely bike ride through the serene countryside of Hoi An. Our journey takes us to the fishing village of Van Lang and the enchanting coconut forest of Bay Mau. This idyllic region, embraced by numerous canals, mangrove forests, and water coconut trees, exudes an authentic charm that's sure to captivate you.

As we traverse through rice fields, cornfields, and orchards, we'll pass by friendly hamlets, craft factories, and boat-building workshops, offering plenty of opportunities for picturesque stops, insightful visits, and delightful encounters.

Upon reaching Van Lang village, you'll be warmly welcomed by friendly and hospitable boatmen. Embark on a memorable ride in a round basket boat, gliding through rivers fringed with towering coconut trees. Take in the breathtaking landscapes, unwind amidst the tranquil surroundings, and indulge in an unforgettable experience of shrimp fishing, complete with tasting and initiation into exceptional fishing techniques.

After our aquatic adventure, we'll disembark and settle into a local family home for some well-deserved rest and a delicious lunch featuring authentic dishes served by your gracious hosts.

In the afternoon, return to the city to discover the ancient port city of Hoi An, "the most charming city in Vietnam", stroll through the old town to visit must-see places: the Fujian sanctuary dedicated to the protective goddess of fishermen and sailors; Phuc Thanh Pagoda, the oldest in Hoi An (1454); the Japanese Bridge built in 1593; the old streets, the museums, and the old wooden houses dating back hundreds of years...

Night at the hotel.

After breakfast, the day is yours to explore the intricacies of Hoi An or simply unwind at your hotel. Take your time to soak in the charming ambiance of this ancient town. Accommodation awaits.

We embark on a scenic journey by road to Hue, a quaint ancient city nestled 150 km from Hoi An. Along the route, expect several captivating stops:

• Discover the serene beauty of less-visited beaches such as Thuan An and Lang Co, where local fish farms thrive in vast lagoons.
• Traverse the Cloud Pass, the highest mountain pass in the central region, offering breathtaking vistas.
• Encounter small-scale melaleuca oil factories, adding a fragrant dimension to our journey.
• Marvel at the picturesque cemeteries lining the roadside, known as "ghost villages," with finely carved tomb sets resembling luxurious cities.
• Upon arrival in Hue, delve into the rich history with a visit to the Imperial Citadel of the Nguyen dynasty, its Royal Museum, and the bustling Dong Ba Market.

Return to the hotel for some free time and sleep for the night.

Begin a captivating city tour of Hue, the last imperial capital of Vietnam (1802 -1945). Many highlights will be included:

- Minh Mang Mausoleum, showcasing the legacy of the emperor famed for his extensive offspring.
- Explore the garden houses of Phu Mong Village, integral to Hue's imperial identity.
- Visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda or the serene Tu Hieu Pagoda, where the tombs of Nguyen dynasty eunuchs lie.
- Admire the unique architectural blend of French and Indochina at the Khai Dinh Royal Tomb.

Following the tour, catch a flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

Upon arrival, meet your local guide at the airport and transfer to the hotel for your relaxation.

After having a hearty breakfast, let's start the day with a visit to Ho Chi Minh City, exploring landmarks such as:

• Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, designed by the renowned Gustave Eiffel.
• The colonial charm of the former Central Town Hall, now the People's Committee headquarters.
• Dive into the rich history of local medicine at the Vietnam Traditional Medicine Museum.

In the afternoon, venture to the Cu Chi underground tunnels on the city's outskirts. Descend into this intricate network, spanning 200 km, and learn about its fascinating history. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the late afternoon for your restfulness.

Arrive in Ben Tre, a bustling city at the heart of the Mekong Delta's northern arms. Embark on a boat ride along the rivers to Mo Cay, renowned for its coconut trade and products.

Bike ride or Xe loi (motorized cycle) on the green island abundantly covered with coconut plantations. The route, away from mass tourism, takes you through small paths, under the shade of coconut trees, which offer a particularly poetic landscape. Stops at farms to observe the making of sweets and coconut brooms.

Continuation with a ride in a small rowing boat along the streams lined with water palms, to immerse yourself in the daily life of the delta. Visit to Mr. Van's traditional house, tasting local specialties made by his wife: coconut jam, tea with honey and pollen... and great encounters with the local population.

In the afternoon, transfer to Vinh Long and arrival on An Binh Island ("of peace") located in the middle of the Mekong. Installation in a quiet guesthouse with a beautiful garden. Free time to relax in a very quiet and restful atmosphere.

In the evening, participate in meal preparation and then dinner with your achievements.

Night at the local home.

Rise and shine bright and early, bid farewell to our gracious hosts, and hit the road towards Can Tho, the bustling capital of the delta, nestled on the right bank of the southern arm of the Mekong. Upon arrival, hop aboard a boat for an unforgettable journey on the mighty Mekong. Witness the vibrant spectacle of the Cai Rang floating market, where a colorful array of boats laden with fruits and vegetables converge.

After disembarking, we'll make our way to Chau Doc, where we'll explore the untamed beauty of the Tra Su nature reserve. Drift along serene channels aboard a relaxing boat ride through lush forests.

Spend the night at a cozy hotel, nestled in the heart of this enchanting region.

Bid farewell to Vietnam as we commence on the next leg of our 3-week journey, cruising aboard a boat towards Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital of Cambodia.

Arrive at the port around noon and receive a warm welcome from our local guide before settling into our hotel. Enjoy some leisure time to unwind and explore the bustling streets of Phnom Penh.

Spend the night in the heart of this dynamic city.

Kick off the day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a captivating tour of Phnom Penh, the jewel of Cambodia.

Visit the iconic Wat Phnom, the birthplace of Phnom Penh in the 14th century, followed by a tour of the majestic Royal Palace, residence of the Norodom kings since 1870.

Explore the opulent Silver Pagoda and delve into Cambodia's rich history at the National Museum.

Pay homage to the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime at the somber Killing Fields, a poignant reminder of Cambodia's tragic past.

Return to the hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Plunge into a scenic journey to Siem Reap via Kampong Cham and Kampong Thom, traversing the idyllic Cambodian countryside adorned with traditional villages, rice fields, and swaying palm trees.

Arrive in Siem Reap by day's end and settle into our hotel.

Spend the night in comfort, ready for more adventures tomorrow.

Today, engross yourself in the mystical realm of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, the ancient capital of the Khmer Empire.

• Marvel at the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor Wat, a masterpiece of Khmer art and architecture dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu.
• The temples of Angkor Thom - a fortified city of 10 km² that housed a million inhabitants. Visit the huge statues of the South Gate, the Elephant Terrace, the Terrace of the Leper King, and the famous Bayon temple composed of 54 giant towers with 216 faces of Avalokitesvara, the most important goddess of Buddhism.

Return to Siem Reap as the sun sets on another unforgettable day.

After breakfast, set out to discover the majestic temples of the small and grand circuits.
Banteay Srei Temple (Citadel of the Women): one of the best temples of pink sandstone, with intricately carved Apsaras and deities in stone.
The sacred temples of Takeo, Bantey Kdei, and the impressive Ta Prohm temple, an abandoned Buddhist monastery covered with trees and its gigantic snake-shaped roots.
Cap off the day with a breathtaking sunset vista from the Pre Rup mountain temple.
Night in hotel.
 

Start the day with a visit to the Roluos group of temples, home to Bakong, Preah Ko, Lolei, and Prasat Prei Monti.

In the afternoon, embark on an excursion to Lake Tonle Sap, Southeast Asia's largest lake.

Explore the charming village of Kompong Khleang - authentic and still little-known, visit the village with houses on stilts or floating rafts, the market, the pagoda, and a primary school with smiling children.

Experience the daily life of local fishermen and soak in the authentic charm of this lakeside community.

Enjoy some free time to relax and unwind in Siem Reap.

Savor your final moments in Siem Reap with some leisure time for last-minute shopping or relaxation.

Depending on your flight schedule, transfer to the airport for your journey home, filled with unforgettable memories from our 21-day adventure through Vietnam and Cambodia.

Until next time!