Classic Mekong River Cruise: Cambodia & Vietnam
- Duration
- 14 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 6,149
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Cruise the Mekong River from Siem Reap in Cambodia to Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam to discover some of the cultural highlights, natural landmarks, and historical treasures of Southeast Asia. Before and after, you’ll also explore the temples of Angkor and Ho Chi Minh City, respectively.
This 14-day Southeast Asian vacation takes on a cruise along the Mekong River through Cambodia and Vietnam, and includes visits to the temples of Angkor and Ho Chi Minh City. It features first-class accommodations aboard a cruise vessel and a mix of private and group tours.
Your journey along the Mekong starts in Cambodia and the resort city of Siem Reap, the gateway to the temples of Angkor. A full day private tour lets you explore several of the ruins, including the 12th-century Khmer capital, Angkor Thom, and the hidden ruins of Ta Prohm, which was only rediscovered in the late 19th-century and is still largely overgrown with banyon trees and jungle vines. In the afternoon, see the slanting light hit the walls and carvings of Angkor Wat, the largest temple structure on the planet and undoubtedly the peak of Khmer architecture. It’s a masterwork unlike any other temple. Spend another day relaxing at your French Riviera-style resort in Siem Reap. You have the option of booking additional excursions to the temples if you wish or simply exploring the township.
Connect onward to Kampong Chhnang City where you’ll board the RV Mekong Pandaw, your 4-star cruise vessel and home for the next 7 nights. Enjoy spacious accommodations on board and intimate views of the Mekong during your journey. First stop is Tonle Sap Lake, the largest lake in Cambodia and the centre of the nation’s fishing industry. Explore the floating villages and wet markets atop the lake before connecting back to Kampong Chhnang City to stroll along the new river walkway. Then weave through the canals around Tonle Sap, visiting tiny villages, markets, and temples along the way, before spending that evening meeting new friends around a fire pit in a Khmer village.
During your cruise down the Mekong, you’ll visit ancient capitals, modern cities, and remote fishing villages, which together provide a full vision of life along this mighty river. First stop is the Vipassana Dhura Buddhist Centre where you’ll centre yourself with some meditation on route. Then reach the ancient Khmer capital of Oudong before continuing to Koh Nghe Tei or Silk Island, whose inhabitants are masters of silk-making. Observe the silk-making process before learning a thing or two about the ancient martial art of L’bokator. Reach Phnom Penh, the Cambodian capital. This faded city used to be the most beautiful spot in French Indochina, but today is mostly known for the spectacular Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, both of which you’ll tour. You’ll also learn about the nation’s history at the National Museum and the tragic genocide committed by the Khmer Rouge at the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. Cross the border into Vietnam and explore the floating markets and fish farms around the border town of Chau Doc. You’ll also learn about the Vietnamese Muslim minority around Chham Village and climb the 400 steps up Sam Mountain to the beautiful pagoda of Phuoc Dien Tu. Navigate the canals of the Mekong Delta to reach Cao Lanh, where you’ll catch a coach ride to Gao Giong Green Oasis, a 1,000ac large eucalyptus forest, where tens of thousands of egrets gather each year to breed. You’ll have more photo opportunities at Ben Tre, known for its birds living among the bamboo-covered canals. Cap off your journey along the Mekong with a Vietnam Cultural Group performance, which will celebrate life along the mighty river. Reach My Tho City, where you’ll disembark and bid farewell to the Mekong. Connect by road to Ho Chi Minh City, the city formerly known as Saigon and the largest centre in the country. A half-day tour will take you across the city to learn about the end of the Vietnam War, as well as Vietnam’s imperial and colonial past. During your tour, you’ll visit the Reunification Palace, formerly the Presidential Palace of South Vietnam, the city’s Notre Dame Cathedral, the Museum of Vietnamese History, and the Jade Emperor Pagoda, known for its intricate Taoist carvings and enchanting atmosphere. At the end of your stay, connect to the airport for your departure.
- Duration
- 14 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 6,149
Itinerary View Trip Map
Arrive Siem Reap
On arrival at Siem Reap airport you will be met by Goway's local representative and transfered to the hotel.
The balance of the day is at your leisure to relax or begin exporing the city at your own pace.
Duration | 3 Nights |
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Accommodation |
Borei Angkor Resort & Spa |
Location | View map |
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Borei Angkor Resort & Spa
Borei Angkor Resort & Spa is well situated in the centre of Siem Reap, the town which is close to the Angkor Wat sites. It is only a 15 minute drive to the nearest site. Although not a large hotel, it is an attractive establishment …
Borei Angkor Resort & Spa is well situated in the centre of Siem Reap, the town which is close to the Angkor Wat sites. It is only a 15 minute drive to the nearest site. Although not a large hotel, it is an attractive establishment located in a tropical garden. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, bar and lounge, coffee shop and restaurant.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Business Centre
- Conference Facilities
- Currency Exchange
- Daycare/Babysitting Service
- Gym/Fitness Centre
- Laundry facilities
- Lounge(s)
- Medical Services
- Parking (Valet)
- Pool (s)
- Restaurant(s)
- Room Service
- Sauna
- Spa
- Spa(Hot-tub)/Jacuzzi
Full Day Angkor Temples
This morning, you will have the opportunity to explore the impressive grandeur of Angkor Thom, which served as the final capital of the great Khmer Empire. During your visit, you will discover the sprawling Elephant Terrace, the Terrace of the Leper King and the enchanting Bayon. This 12th-century masterpiece sits at the very heart of Angkor Thom City and represents an extraordinary feat of symmetry and grandeur. The exterior gallery walls feature extensive bas-reliefs, but the towers are the main attraction, each adorned with three or four gently smiling faces, totaling over 200. Described by PJ de Beerski as "godliness in the majesty and the size, mystery in the expression," the towers are truly awe-inspiring.
Continue your explorations of temples at Ta Prohm, a temple that has remained mostly untouched since its rediscovery by French explorers. Surrounded by jungle, the temple's labyrinthine stone hallways are now overtaken by the roots and limbs of massive banyan trees, creating a remarkable visual spectacle. One of the largest temples at Angkor, Ta Prohm was dedicated in 1186 and has been noted by historians for its mystical charm. Have your lunch at a local restaurant.
After lunch, you will visit Angkor Wat, which is widely regarded as the world's largest religious structure. Its massive stone volume is said to be equivalent to that of Egypt's Cheops pyramid. What sets it apart from other Khmer temples is its Western orientation and its inspiration from 12th-century Hinduism. The symmetrical towers of Angkor Wat have become a stylized feature of the modern Cambodian flag. The temple, which was envisioned by Suryavarman II, took an estimated 30 years to complete and is believed to have been built as a funeral temple for the king. Despite its age, the temple has been continuously occupied by Buddhist monks and has remained remarkably well-preserved. One of the temple's most notable features is the intricate bas-reliefs that adorn its four sides, each of which tells a unique story. Among these, the Churning of the Sea of Milk, located on the eastern wing, is the most celebrated and your guide will provide a mystical explanation of its significance. Enjoy the sunset at the end of the tour.
Meal Plan | Breakfast and Lunch |
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Half Day Cooking Class
This morning enjoy a half day cooking class - start with a hotel pick up by Remok, followed by a visit to one of the busiest local markets in Siem Reap for supplies then on to the restaurant for the cooking class. It can be hot work in the markets, so a cold welcome drink is served on arrival. The owner then provides a full introduction of all ingredients in their raw form and then usually we produce 2-3 dishes during the cooking class, followed by Lunch.
Meal Plan | Breakfast and Lunch |
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Siem Reap - Kampong Cham
Travel by coach from Siem Reap to Kampong Cham for embarkation. Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Mekong and meet your crew for the next 7 nights.
Meal Plan | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
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Duration | 7 Nights |
Accommodation |
RV Indochina Pandaw |
Location | View map |
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RV Indochina Pandaw
Sister to the Orient and Bassac, the IP was built in Vietnam in 2009 and transferred over to Burma in 2011. The ship has quality mountain bikes for your independent exploration.
Angkor Ban Village Walks - Silk Island
In the morning we visit Angkor Ban and a local Cambodian school where the local library was built with the support of Pandaw and our guests. Guests are encouraged to bring books to donate to the library for children to read. After lunch, study the entire silk making process from worms to weavers with a visit to 'Silk Island'. After learning about the silk process there will be a demonstration of the ancient Khmer martial art of Bokator.
Meal Plan | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
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Oudong - Kampong Tralach
In the morning, travel by coach to the ancient capital of Cambodia, Oudong. On the way stop to visit the Vipassana Dhura Meditation Centre before taking a drive around the city. Rejoin your ship in Kampong Tralach for lunch onboard. In the afternoon travel by ox-cart around the river-side villages, markets and temples. In the evening cocktails are around a village fire pit where you will be joined by village folk excited to show their traditional dancing and delightful Khmer culture.
Meal Plan | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
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Phnom Penh
Morning orientation of Phnom Penh by cyclo visiting the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda followed by the National Museum with its marvelous collection of Angkorian statuary. In the afternoon visit the Killing Fields and Genocide museum to learn more about the brutal Khmer Rouge regime. Overnight in Phnom Penh city port with its lively bars, restaurants and night life.
Meal Plan | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
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Vietnam Border - Long Thuan Village
Anchor early morning and cruise downstream along the Mekong River to the Vietnam border for immigration formalities. Go alongside at the picturesque border town of Long Thuan and visit the floating fish farms by sampan. Make a stop at a Taoist temple where you will meet a local fortuneteller before continuing by Xi Loi through the riverside village and their various farms. Before heading back to the ship, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese Lion dance onshore.
Meal Plan | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
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Con Phuoc Island
Sailing through the delta offers a real insight into life along this vast waterway. Pass through a small canal and head ashore to Con Phuoc Island where to visit local craftspeople weaving bamboo baskets in the traditional way. After a demonstration, try your hand at making your own. Afterwards take a local tuk tuk for a drive through this peaceful village, stopping at a 100 year old church and meeting more of the friendly local community.
Meal Plan | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
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Ben Tre
After lunch, journey by sampans through mangroves and bamboo forests to the fruit orchards of Ben Tre. This is an area rich in birdlife which you will explore via local transport before transferring to a local rowboat. Journey slowly through the bamboo covered canals before arriving at a village specialising in making local products. In the evening you will be entertained by a Vietnamese dance troupe on deck.
Meal Plan | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
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My Tho - Ho Chi Minh City
Morning disembarkation and travel by coach from My Tho to Ho Chi Minh City.
The balance of the day is yours to relax or explore Ho Chi Minh City on your own.
Meal Plan | Breakfast |
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Duration | 3 Nights |
Accommodation |
Hotel Majestic Saigon |
Location | View map |
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Hotel Majestic Saigon
The Majestic is situated in the heart of the city overlooking the Saigon River and is steps away from shopping, restaurants and business areas. The hotel has 152 rooms all with in-room safes, a mini bar and TV. The hotel also has a restaurant, café …
The Majestic is situated in the heart of the city overlooking the Saigon River and is steps away from shopping, restaurants and business areas. The hotel has 152 rooms all with in-room safes, a mini bar and TV. The hotel also has a restaurant, café and two bars plus a coffee shop. Other facilities include a sauna, spa, swimming pool and fitness centre.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Business Centre
- Conference Facilities
- Gym/Fitness Centre
- Internet Access
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry/Dry Cleaning Service
- Pool (s)
- Restaurant(s)
- Sauna
Full Day Saigon Heritage and Cholon Charm
Starting the city tour with a visit to the historic former Presidential Palace. This landmark gained its place in history as the first North Vietnamese tanks passed by, signifying the end of the Vietnam War. Take a walk along Book Street, passing by the Notre Dame Cathedral, and stop by one of the local stands to purchase a Saigon postcard. Then visit the colonial-era Post Office, featuring classic Gothic, Renaissance, and French colonial designs. Take the opportunity to admire the stunning architecture of a bygone era and send a postcard to your family back home. Next, either walk or drive to the War Remnants Museum, primarily focuses on the Vietnam War but also showcases exhibits dating back to the French colonialist period and the first Indochina War.
After a break for lunch at a local restaurant, experience the vibrant district of Cholon, the heart of Saigon's Chinese community. Begin your exploration with a visit to FITO - the first museum on traditional herbal medicine, offering fascinating insights into traditional Vietnamese everyday life and medical development over the centuries.
Next, head to the Thien Hau temple, dedicated to the Lady of the Sea, who is believed to be able to locate and rescue those in trouble on the high seas. Enjoy a guided walk through the bustling trading areas, watch skillful craftsmen at work on Scissors Street. Along this former Rue de Canton, admire the ancient fusion French and Chinese architecture and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere of this unique district.
Then discover traditional herbal medicine quarter, just by standing on the street, you can inhale the typical smell of herbs spreading through the air. If time permits, stroll through the side road of the age-old Dai Quang Minh market. Don't get lost in the colorful world of stalls selling apparel and garment accessories from buttons, buckles to ribbons!
Meal Plan | Breakfast and Lunch |
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Evening A O Show at Opera House
The A O Show (pronounced Ahhh! Ohhh!) has been performing to rapturous acclaim since February 2013. The 60-minute production depicts the transformation of modern Vietnamese society, taking the audience from the serenity and peacefulness of rural village life to the mayhem and frenzy of city dwelling through the medium of dance and music. Using acrobats, contemporary dancers, jugglers and martial arts experts, the performance is accompanied by an ensemble of harmonious instruments, some of which are rare these days and played only by a handful of musicians. Performed in the French colonial-era Municipal Theatre of Ho Chi Minh City, commonly known as Saigon Opera House, the show is essential viewing for anyone with an interest in performing arts.
Meal Plan | Breakfast |
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Depart Ho Chi Minh City
Following breakfast, you will be transfered to the airport for your onward flight.
Meal Plan | Breakfast |
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Other Information
DEPARTURES:
Frequent Departures between October and March
* Please enquire for detailed of the Upstream Itinerary
PRICE INCLUDES:
- Private arrival airport transfer in Siem Reap
- Private departure airport transfer in Ho Chi Minh City
- Join-in Transfers to/from cruise meeting points in Siem Reap and Ho Chi Minh City
- 3 nights first-class hotel accommodations in Siem Reap
- 7 nights first-class cruise accommodations in private cabin
- 3 nights first-class hotel accommodations in Ho Chi Minh City
- Private-guided Full Day Angkor Temples Tour in Siem Reap
- Join-in Half Day Cooking Class in Siem Reap
- Mekong River Cruise with guided group touring with English-speaking local guides, entrance fees
- Private-guided Full Day Saigon Heritage and Cholon Charm Tour in Ho Chi Minh City
- Private-guided Evening A O Show at Opera House in Ho Chi Minh City
- Breakfast daily (excluding day 1), 10 lunches, 7 dinners
- Local mineral water, jugged coffee and teas during Mekong Cruise
PRICE EXCLUDES:
- Airfare and all taxes
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees
- Imported beverages and espresso drinks
- Optional excursions
- Other gratuities
- Port dues (if levied)
- Fuel surcharges
- Items of a personal nature
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Prices are "from", per person, based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates will apply, Limited seats/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request -- please inquire.
2 Oct 2024