Best of Vietnam Cambodia and Laos Tour in 3 Weeks

Embark on a tour around Hanoi. We will drive along along tree-lined avenues to discover Hanoi’s most cultural and historical monuments:

First of all, we make a visit to the recently excavated Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, the first political stronghold of the millennial capital. Continue to Temple of Literature – the first university of Vietnam under Ly and Tran dynasties. This ancient site offers a chance to take photos of turtle steles, pavilions, courtyards and passageways that were once used by royalty. 

Then together we head to Ba Dinh Square, the complex of former Indochina Governor Palace which is close to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and his stilt house. Another highlight of the trip is Vietnam Museum of Ethnology – the collection of 25,000 ancient and contemporary ethnic objects from all corners of Vietnam. 

After touring, we enjoy Water puppet shows which is recognized as an UNESCO Intangible Heritage.

At night, it is your own time strolling around the Old Square to witness the daily life of Hanoians. Please feel free to taste some street food, have some beers or cocktails at local bars, and immerse yourself in the vivid colors of Hanoi at night.  Overnight at hotel in Hanoi.

Morning depart for Halong by shuttle bus (without private guide), the most beautiful bay of Vietnam, one of the most beautiful landscapes of Asia. Located 180 km east of Hanoi and close to China, Halong is an expanse of water, about 1500 km². It is famous for thousands of limestone karsts of all shapes and sizes emerging from the emerald waters, with magnificent cellars eroded in the islands and islets over the centuries by the wind and the sea.  On arrival, welcome by cruise staff and embark with the shuttle boat for short transfer (approximately 5 minutes) to the main cruise. Welcome cocktail and check-in on board. 

Enjoy your lunch while cruise passing by some of the most scenic locations mountains and a floating village. In the afternoon, swimming, kayaking if weather permitted (Kayak is on your own expense). Do not miss the chance to capture breath taking and sunset scene on the bay. In the evening, dinner is served while the cruise anchored in quiet water area. Overnight on board.

Note: The itinerary and activities of the cruise may vary according to the proposed junks.

In the early morning, greet the morning as the first ray shines through thousands karst of the bay. We then visit caves of Halong Bay including the French-baptized “Surprise Cave”, study stalagmites and stalactites which date back thousands of years ago.  Have brunch on board.

Return to Hanoi at the end of the afternoon then transfer to the airport for your evening flight to Hue. Overnight at hotel in Hue. 

Note: The itinerary and activities of the cruise may vary according to the proposed junks.

Day 5: Hue full day tour (Meal: B)

Today is a day dedicated to explore Hue – the last imperial capital of Vietnam between 1802 and 1945.  We visit Imperial City – the residence and workplace of 13 Nguyen kings for 143 years. This Imperial City was finally completed under the reign of Minh Mang, making it the most massive structure being built in the history of modern Vietnam involving thousands of workers,

We then head to Gia Long Tomb – the founder of Nguyen Dynasty or of Ming Mang Emperor who was famous for fathering 142 royal offspring with his 43 concubines.

The tour continues to visit garden houses in residential area which still retains images of the ancient royal heritages and artifacts in Phu Mong village. The garden system contains various types of gardens: house garden, tomb garden, pagoda garden, palace garden and royal garden. Flowers in Hue garden house are planted according to certain layer principals and hundreds of types of flower blossom throughout a year. 

From the old village, we go along the Perfume river to visit Thien Mu Pagoda –  the most visited pagoda in Hue or Tu Hieu Pagoda – the burial site of Nguyen Dynasty’s eunuchs. If time permits, we visit Dong Ba Market – the largest and oldest market of Hue. Overnight at hotel in Hue.

Departure for Hoi An, a small old town located 150 km south of Hue, the off-the-beaten route along the wild coast of the eastern sea and the route to the Cloud Pass. Several visits and stops are planned along the way: First the beautiful bays of the turquoise water of Lang Co and Da Nang, long pristine beaches Thuan An and Lang Co; here you could sightsee the large lagoons with local fish farms in several types. Then we reach Cloud Pass, the highest pass of Vietnam Center, a climatic dam between the North and the South will offer you a view overlooking the entire coastline of Da Nang.

Along the way you can visit small factories and stores of melaleuca oil. The widely cultivated melaleuca in the area yields oil which is used by local residents in the treatment of joint, respiratory and digestive diseases.

Highlight of the trip today is “An Bang Ghost city” - the picturesque cemetery along the road with many stunning tombs. They are recognized from faraway as luxury castles finely carved in different Asian architectures. You will have opportunity to discover the original custom "Double burial" of Vietnamese, accordingly, the exhumation must take place 3 or 4 years after the initial burial. The bones are collected and then placed in a terracotta coffin to be transplanted, from that moment, the deceased will rest eternally.

Arrival in Hoi An in the afternoon and overnight at the hotel in Hoi An.

We have a full day in one of Vietnam’s most atmospheric and historical town. Once a major port in the Central coast of Vietnam, it inherits the ancient architecture and beguiling riverside setting that offers tourists a throwback to the past. 

In this day we visit: 

• Phuc Kien temple: although it’s still referred to as an assembly hall by many, the buildings and grounds have long been used as a temple to worship goddess who protects fishermen and sailors by the descendants of Chinese families in Hoi An. 
• Phuc Thanh pagoda: the most ancient one of it kind in Hoi An (Since 1454)
• Japanese bridge: Built in 1593 which connects Chinese and Japanese area in the town. 
• Old alley and ancient houses which are witnesses of hundred years gone by
• Shops where colorful silk and lantern can be found. Tourists might me amazed by the speedy service for tailor made clothes. It is rare chance for you to buy clothes which specially made by your size within just 24 hours
• Afternoon, we explore the fish village of Van Lang and the coconut forest of Bay Mau, surrounded by multiple canals, mangrove forests, coconut palms which are still very authentic. The route crossing fields of rice, maize, lush gardens, friendly hamlets, handicraft factories, and boat building workshops will offer you beautiful stops of photos as well as interesting visits. Arrival at the village of Van Lang, welcome by open and nice boatmen and then departure for a basket-boat trip round river coconut trees. Admire beautiful landscapes, relax then try the techniques of shrimp catching before returning to the hotel. Overnight in Hoi An.

Today is your free day in Hoi An. There are many suggestions of activities you can join with your friends and family in this lovely town: Cycling through the peaceful rural area of Hoi An along beautiful green rice field, enjoy the candle light and roses in the most romantic restaurants in Hoian along Thu Bon river, soak up the sunshine on beautiful nearby beaches (Cua Dai and An Bang), taste famous street food in Hoi An sold in street vendors to explore the harmony combination of spice used in local culinary culture… Overnight at hotel in Hoi An.

Free at leisure until our car transfer you to Danang airport to catch flight to Ho Chi Minh city. Welcome by our guide at the airport on arrival. Formerly known as Saigon, this city is the biggest one in Vietnam, offering tourists exhilarating kicks on every sense. Considered by locals as “sleepless city”, the city center area is bustling in the day time and even more lively at night. Night life in Ho Chi Minh city is an inviting paradise for whom who love bars and parties. This city is currently ranked as the second most dynamic city in the world based on factors that contribute to long-term economic growth such as innovation, inspiration, investment and infrastructure. Check in your hotel and overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.

Morning:

Explore the underground Cu Chi Tunnels, a historic battlefield from the Indochina War located on the outskirts of the city. Upon arrival, descend into the subterranean world of tunnels stretching over 200 kilometers. These tunnels, with a width of 70 cm and a height of 90 cm, lead to various meeting rooms, kitchens, and even hospitals.

At noon, you'll enjoy a local restaurant lunch before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.

Afternoon:

• Keep your energy up as you embark on a half-day city tour, visiting the city's must-see attractions.
• Your first stop is the Independence Palace, where the Vietnamese Revolutionary Army achieved victory in 1975. 
• Your next destination is Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. These landmarks are prime examples of French architecture in the city.
• Continue your tour with a visit to the War Remnants Museum, which provides insights into the First Indochina War and the Vietnam War. The museum showcases compelling visuals depicting the futility and devastating effects of the conflicts.
• As the sightseeing tour concludes, you will be dropped off at your hotel, giving you the freedom to explore the city at night.

NOTE: The Notre Dame Cathedral is currently undergoing renovations until 2027. You may be taken to visit the surrounding areas, such as the street book.

In the morning, we depart for the Mekong Delta, known as one of the longest rivers in the world. We visit Ben Tre, a local village situated in the heart of the Northern branch of the river. From there, we take a boat trip to Mo Cay, famous for its coconut products. We explore the island on a motorized cyclo (Xe Loi), witnessing the picturesque coconut plantations and stopping at farms to see the production of local sweets and coconut brooms.

The highlight of the trip is a small rowing boat excursion through canals surrounded by water palms, providing insights into delta life. Afterward, we continue to Mr. Van's traditional house, where we taste local specialties and engage with residents. Lunch is at a riverside restaurant (on your own budget).

In the afternoon, we transfer to Vinh Long and arrive at An Binh Island. Here, you'll stay in a peaceful guesthouse with a lush garden. Enjoy free time to relax before participating in meal preparation and dining with locals. Your overnight stay is at the homestay on An Binh Island.

In the early morning, we rise to begin our journey to Can Tho, the capital of the delta. Upon arrival, we board a boat to experience the Cai Rang Floating Market Tour. The scene is breathtaking as various boats gather, laden with fruits, vegetables, and a variety of goods. It's an opportunity to witness the unique "river trading" practiced by the people of the Mekong region.

If time permits, we can also visit the An Binh land market tour in front of Cai Rang, offering an interesting comparison between the floating and land markets. Afterward, we return to our van and visit an orchard, followed by a bike ride through small hamlets along the So Dua River. We then transfer from Can Tho to Chau Doc for an overnight stay in Chau Doc.

In the morning, you will board canoes for a journey to Phnom Penh. After a 5-hour voyage on the river, we arrive in the capital of the Kingdom of Cambodia. This city is situated at the confluence of three rivers - the Mekong, the Bassac, and Tonle Sap - and is divided into three sections: the North, a residential area; the South, featuring the French part of the city with its ministries, banks, and colonial houses; and the center, characterized by its narrow lanes, markets, restaurants, and shops. You'll have free time to leisurely explore, and you'll spend the night in Phnom Penh.

Our Vietnam Laos Cambodia tour carries on with a day dedicated to exploring the capital, taking you to the main sights of Phnom Penh. This includes:

• Royal Palace: A complex of buildings serving as the royal residence of the King of Cambodia.
• National Museum: Designed in Khmer style in 1917, it houses a collection of Khmer art spanning various ages.
• Wat Phnom: A prominent Buddhist temple in the city.

However, it's important to note that the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, formerly a high school and then used as a prison by the Khmer Rouge regime, serves as a somber testament to their crimes.

You'll spend the night in Phnom Penh, continuing your exploration of Cambodia's capital.

In the morning, we embark on a road journey to Siem Reap, passing through Kampong Cham and Kampong Thom. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to admire the tranquil Cambodian countryside, featuring traditional villages, lush paddy fields, and picturesque palm hills that stretch towards the horizon. By day's end, we reach Siem Reap.

This city, which translates to the "Defeat of Siam," is the most prosperous region in modern Cambodia. Its strategic proximity to the Angkor Wat temple complex has transformed it into one of the world's premier travel destinations. You'll spend the night in Siem Reap.

Note: Alternatively, you can opt for a 40-minute flight from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap.

Today is a full day dedicated to exploring the mystical Angkor Wat. In the morning, you will visit the "Great City" of Angkor Thom, which includes renowned sites like the Bayon Temple, Phimeanakas Temple within the Royal Palace enclosure, Baphuon Temple, the Terrace of the Elephants, and the Terrace of the Leper King.

The afternoon is devoted to visiting the most famous and magnificent Angkor Wat temple. In the evening, you will be transferred to a restaurant for dinner accompanied by an Apsara dance show. Enjoy your overnight stay at a hotel in Siem Reap.

Today, you'll have the opportunity to explore other impressive temples in the Angkor region:

• Banteay Srey: Often referred to as the 'citadel of the women,' this temple is admired for its delicate and intricate carvings. It showcases some of the finest examples of classical Khmer art.
• Ta Prohm: This sprawling monastic complex is intentionally left partially unrestored, allowing massive fig and silk-cotton trees to grow from the temple's towers and corridors. This creates a unique and picturesque atmosphere, offering excellent 'tree-in-temple' photo opportunities. The presence of noisy parrots adds to the jungle ambiance.
• Mebon Temple: A visit to this temple is also on the agenda.

As the day draws to a close, you'll have the chance to enjoy a beautiful sunset at Pre Rup Temple. You'll spend the night in Siem Reap, continuing your exploration of this fascinating region.

In the morning, we embark on a boat excursion on Tonle Sap Lake, which is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and ranks as the second most popular attraction in Siem Reap, following Angkor Wat. This vast lake teems with a diverse range of species, both in the water and around its shores. Tonle Sap Lake serves as Cambodia's most critical ecosystem, sustaining millions of people who rely on it for food and irrigation.

The lake is home to Khmer, Ethnic Vietnamese, and Cham communities, known for their unique lifestyle on floating houses. Upon arrival, we take a boat trip around the lake, allowing us to visit floating villages, including floating schools and markets. This experience provides a glimpse into the lives of those whose existence is intertwined with the monsoonal rains and water-based agriculture. It's a valuable opportunity to gain insight into the daily routines of the fishermen on the lake.

Depending on the current water levels, there may also be a chance to visit a floating crocodile farm and a fish farm.

In the afternoon, you will transfer to the airport without a guide for your departure to Luang Prabang. Spend the night in Luang Prabang, continuing your journey through this captivating region.

In the morning, we begin with a cruise upstream on the Mekong River, ultimately reaching the mysterious Pak Ou Caves. Along the way, we make a stop at the village of Ban Xanghai, known for producing local rice wine. On our return journey, we disembark the boat to explore traditional villages, followed by a short drive to Ban Phanom, a village renowned for its hand weaving.

Upon returning to Luang Prabang, our guide will lead you to visit the National Museum, housed in the former Royal Palace. We then continue to explore the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun, the shrine of Wat Aham, the city's oldest temple, Wat Sene, and Wat Mai. The magnificent Wat Xieng Thong is also on our itinerary.

In the late afternoon, we ascend 329 steps to the top of Mount Phousi, where you can enjoy a stunning sunset view. Following this, we explore the Night Market, time permitting. Your overnight stay is at a hotel in Luang Prabang, as you continue to discover the rich culture and beauty of the region.

In the morning, we visit the breathtaking Kuang Si Waterfall, a stunning three-tiered waterfall that plunges 50 meters into shallow pools. Surrounded by a lush tropical jungle, these pools feature cascades as high as 5 meters. There are trails that lead to the top of Kuang Si Falls, providing views of the stream feeding into the falls. It's important to wear proper footwear, especially during the wet season, as the trails can be slippery. Here, you can cool off with a refreshing swim or take a leisurely walk along the forest trails.

After enjoying the beauty of Kuang Si waterfall, we'll transfer you to the airport for your flight to Vientiane. Spend the night in Vientiane, continuing your journey through Laos.

On this day, we dedicate our time to exploring the most significant cultural and historical landmarks in Vientiane. Our itinerary includes:

• Wat Sisaket: This ancient temple is home to thousands of miniature Buddha statues.
• Wat Prakeo: A former royal temple that once housed the famous Emerald Buddha and the Lao national icon.
• That Luang Stupa: A revered monument and a national symbol of Laos.
• Patuxay Monument: Vientiane's own version of the Arc de Triomphe.

Following our city tour, we'll drive outside of Vientiane to visit the Buddha Park. This park features an enchanting collection of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures set in a serene parkland area along the banks of the Mekong River, near the Friendship Bridge. The park showcases over 200 religious images, some dating back 500 years, meticulously recreated by a mysterious Buddhist monk.

After our visit to the Buddha Park, it will be time to bid farewell to Indochina as we conclude our tour at the airport.

Thank you for joining us on this Vietnam Cambodia Laos tour in 3 weeks! Kampá Tour is happy to have accompanied you on this incredible journey. Safe travels, and see you next time!