Indochina’s Best Kept Secrets

Today we’re exploring Hanoi’s cool sights. Following a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, we will explore Hanoi’s vibrant Old Quarter, experiencing its narrow, historic streets and rich café culture. At Hoan Kiem Lake, we can finish our day by joining in or watching the sunset tai chi and traditional dances, experiencing Hanoi’s energetic community up close.

Accommodation: hotel in Hanoi
Meals: breakfast

We’ll have extra time in the morning to leisurely explore Hanoi, revisiting favorite places or seeing what we missed. This afternoon, we’ll begin our exciting journey aboard the famous Reunification Express to Dong Hoi. This overnight train journey provides a unique opportunity to see Vietnam’s diverse landscapes. Settling into our train cabins, we’ll enjoy the rhythmic chugging of the train as we head south, eager for Phong Nha’s adventures. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park’s cave expedition offers an unparalleled underground experience, showcasing diverse landscapes, cultural richness, and captivating hidden gems.

Accommodation: overnight train cabin
Meals: breakfast

Our early morning arrival in Dong Hoi marks the beginning of an exciting day. A private van will take us to the picturesque Phong Nha village, in the heart of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Following a full breakfast and a vital safety talk, we will begin our special tour of some of the world’s most breathtaking and vast cave systems. Explore the region’s incredible subterranean wonders—massive caverns and stunning rock formations—then savor a home-cooked meal with locals before relaxing at Tan Hoa’s River Bungalow.

Accommodation: River bungalow in Tan Hoa
Meals: lunch and dinner

We’ll start our adventurous day with a big breakfast before our hike to the Rào Nan River. We’ll explore the exciting underground river system, navigating caves with the provided harnesses. At the stunning Tổ Mộ Lake, filming location of “The Immortal”, we’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch. A revitalizing trek through the valley, showcasing breathtaking scenery, concludes the expedition. Following a day of adventure, we’ll freshen up with showers and drinks in Tân Hóa before heading back to our comfortable bungalows in Phong Nha village to relax and reflect on the day.

Accommodation: bungalow in Phong Nha village
Meals: breakfast and lunch

We’re continuing our adventure with a scenic drive from Phong Nha to Hoi An, stopping at some awesome sights. In beautiful, old Hue, we’ll see Emperor Khai Dinh’s tomb; it’s architecturally amazing and steeped in history. The scenic Hai Van Pass, known as one of the world’s most beautiful drives, is next on our journey. We’ll enjoy breathtaking views as we cross the natural boundary between Vietnam’s north and south. Our day ends in Hoi An, where we’ll see the magical nighttime transformation that earned it the name “city of lanterns”. The ancient streets, bathed in the glow of colorful lanterns, create a magical atmosphere, introducing this charming UNESCO World Heritage site.

Accommodation: hotel in Hoi An

Meals: breakfast

We leave the central coast behind today, flying from Da Nang to Can Tho in the lush Mekong Delta. The rest of the day is for chilling out and relaxing. Spend this relaxing afternoon exploring resort facilities, taking a refreshing dip, or simply enjoying the tranquil Mekong Delta from your bungalow.

Accommodation: bungalow in Can Tho
Meals: breakfast

We wake before dawn to see the vibrant spectacle of the Mekong Delta’s floating markets. At dawn, we’ll journey through a busy network of boats filled with fresh produce and local goods, experiencing the distinctive beat of river commerce. The next phase of our journey includes visits to several cooperatives to understand how the region upholds its ancestral heritage. These visits provide a captivating look at the Delta’s crafts, agriculture, and daily life, highlighting its rich, inherited cultural heritage.

Accommodation: bungalow in Can Tho
Meals: breakfast

After lunch, we’ll take a bus to the border town of Chau Doc, near Cambodia. Upon arrival, we will explore the city, experiencing its unique blend of Vietnamese and Cambodian cultures. We can explore local markets and admire the town’s unique architecture before heading back to the hotel for a relaxing evening.

Accommodation: hotel in Chau Doc
Meals: breakfast

We’re getting up early for a thrilling speedboat ride up the Mekong River to Cambodia. This journey provides unique perspectives on border crossings and the Mekong River’s daily importance, showcasing the evolving landscape and river communities along the way. Expect the journey to last around six hours, including border control. We’ll be in Phnom Penh by lunchtime, which means we’ve made it to Cambodia’s capital! This unique way to travel is amazing, and it’ll be a smooth transition to the next part of our adventure.

Accommodation: hotel in Phnom Penh
Meals: breakfast

Today, we’re going to look at some tough but important parts of Cambodia’s past. A visit to the Killing Fields and the Genocide Museum will convey the atrocities committed under the Khmer Rouge. These sites provide a touching understanding of Cambodia’s past and its people’s enduring spirit.

For a change of pace, we will check out local markets showcasing lively Cambodian culture. Comparing past and present Phnom Penh gives you the full picture.

Accommodation: hotel in Phnom Penh
Meals: breakfast

Our journey to the magnificent Koh Rong Archipelago begins today, and it will be a full-day adventure. We’ll travel by bus and ferry, enjoying shifting views from city to coast. Despite a long travel day, the destination will be incredibly worthwhile. The island’s paradise of pristine beaches, clear waters, and lush vegetation will reward our journey.

Accommodation: bungalow in Koh Rong Sanloem Islands
Meals: breakfast

Let’s spend the day enjoying the stunning beauty of Koh Rong Sanloem. Spend your time relaxing on beautiful beaches, swimming in clear water, or exploring the tropical surroundings. With the sun setting over our idyllic island, we’ll begin our overnight voyage to Siem Reap. Traveling overnight on a comfortable bus-hotel will give us more time in Siem Reap, allowing for a relaxing day upon arrival.

Accommodation: sleeper-bus
Meals: breakfast

Take a dip in the hotel pool in the morning before beginning our exploration of this delightful city with its vibrant markets, unique shops, and beautiful colonial architecture. In the afternoon, we’re off to see the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat, the world’s biggest religious monument. A breathtaking sunset will illuminate the ancient stones of the iconic temple complex in a golden light. This amazing experience is the perfect introduction to the marvels of Angkor.

Accommodation: hotel in Siem Reap
Meals: –

To witness the magical sunrise over Angkor Wat, we wake before dawn. The iconic temple silhouette will gradually become visible as the sky lightens, creating an unforgettable scene at daybreak. This incredible start is followed by a day of exploring the expansive Angkor Archaeological Park. We’ll travel through ancient temples, each with its own unique charm and history, from the mysterious Bayon to the jungle-covered Ta Prohm. This immersive, full-day experience showcases the Khmer Empire’s rich cultural legacy and architectural marvels.

Accommodation: hotel in Siem Reap
Meals: –

Our Cambodian-Laotian adventure begins with an early morning departure. Today offers a unique cultural experience using different forms of transport. Get ready for buses, minivans, an exciting canoe river crossing, and a tuk-tuk to end it all! The relaxed atmosphere that inspired the local motto, “LPDR” – “Laos: Please Don’t Rush” – rather than its formal title, “Laos People’s Democratic Republic,” will become apparent as we explore the country’s diverse landscapes and cross its borders. This relaxed approach to life will become evident as we make our way to Champasak, embracing the journey as much as the destination.

Accommodation: hotel in Champasak
Meals: breakfast

Today, we explore the hidden wonders of the ancient Champasak Kingdom, sometimes called the “lost Angkor Wat”. This hidden gem of Indochina offers a captivating glimpse into a largely untouched historical landscape, a secret well-preserved from mass tourism. Our exploration will include the atmospheric ruins, notably the magnificent Wat Phu temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site older than Angkor Wat. Exploring crumbling ruins and vibrant landscapes, we’ll uncover the rich history and spiritual heart of this lost kingdom—a unique and secluded adventure, a welcome change from the more popular destinations we’ve seen.

Accommodation: hotel in Champasak
Meals: breakfast

We start the day with an early morning flight from Pakxe to Luang Prabang, our final destination on this incredible journey. Following check-in, the afternoon is free to discover the enchanting UNESCO World Heritage city. We’ll spend the evening enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Luang Prabang’s bustling night markets. This is a great place to explore the vibrant local handicrafts, textiles, and street food, experiencing the rich culture and traditions of northern Laos firsthand.

Accommodation: hotel in Luang Prabang
Meals: breakfast

Our day starts early with the peaceful alms-giving ceremony, a Luang Prabang tradition where monks silently receive offerings. Through this spiritual experience, one gains a profound understanding of the local culture. Our next stop is the magnificent Kuang Si Waterfalls, considered by many to be the jewel of Laos. We’ll visit a traditional coffee plantation en route to learn about local coffee production and sample Laos’ distinctive brews. If you’re up for an adventure, a motorcycle ride along this scenic route is recommended. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, consider travelling by tuk-tuk. This day provides a perfect mix of cultural sights and natural wonders.

Accommodation: hotel in Luang Prabang
Meals: breakfast

We’re wrapping up our unforgettable journey across Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos today. Following breakfast, we’ll help you get to the airport. Saying goodbye to enchanting Luang Prabang, we hope the memories of our shared adventures – bustling markets, ancient temples, serene islands, and majestic waterfalls – stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

We hope you’ll join us again on another one of our unusual voyages!

Accommodation: –
Meals: breakfast