Best of Indochina 18 Days / 17 Nights

Arriving at Noi Bai International Airport at 11:05 PM, you’ll be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel in Hanoi’s city center for check-in and a well-deserved rest. Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, offers a captivating introduction to the country with its seamless blend of traditional charm and colonial elegance.

Start your morning early with a cultural immersion at Hoan Kiem Lake, where locals gather at dawn for tai chi and aerobics. Join them for a true slice of daily Vietnamese life, then visit Ngoc Son Temple on the lake before enjoying a glass of traditional Vietnamese iced coffee—or perhaps try the famous egg coffee—at a local café.

Continue to the Old Quarter for a sample of the beloved street food “banh mi,” followed by a visit to the impressive St. Joseph’s Cathedral. Explore the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, then head to the infamous Hoa Lo Prison to reflect on the country’s wartime past.

Enjoy a traditional lunch of Bun Cha and spring rolls at a local restaurant. Afterward, visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, founded in 1076. Return to the Old Quarter for a relaxing cyclo tour and end your day like a local with cold Bia Hoi (fresh beer) and crispy Nem Chua Ran (fried fermented pork rolls) at a sidewalk pub, chatting with locals before returning to your hotel.

After breakfast, leave the city behind and drive to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic limestone karsts. Upon arrival, board the luxurious Grand Pioneer Cruise and enjoy a welcome drink and lunch at the Cloud Nine Restaurant as you sail past stunning islets.

In the afternoon, explore Luon Cave by kayak or bamboo boat, then relax or swim at Titop Island. For those who prefer to stay onboard, the cruise offers amenities including a spa, golf simulator, billiards, and a kid’s club.

As the sun sets, enjoy Happy Hour and a cooking demonstration at the Lighthouse Sky Bar. Savor a delightful dinner with Western and Vietnamese specialties before spending a relaxing evening—pamper yourself at La Spa, try squid fishing, or mingle at the cigar and poker clubs. Your overnight stay will be aboard the Grand Pioneer Cruise.

Wake early to witness a serene sunrise over Ha Long Bay, followed by a Tai Chi session on the sundeck or a workout in the gym. Enjoy a light breakfast before embarking on a speedboat to explore Sung Sot Cave—the largest and most magnificent in the bay.

After checking out and having a leisurely brunch on board, disembark around 11:00 AM. Your guide will be waiting to transfer you to Ninh Binh, where your next scenic journey begins.

On arrival, head straight to Van Long Nature Reserve, the largest wetland in northern Vietnam. Here, embark on a relaxing sampan boat ride through tranquil waters and limestone formations, passing through caves and lush landscapes. Often referred to as an “inland Ha Long Bay,” this area is home to rich biodiversity, including endangered species listed in the red book.

After soaking in the peaceful beauty of Van Long, transfer to your resort for check-in and a restful evening amid the countryside charm of Ninh Binh.

After breakfast, set off for Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam’s first and most important nature reserve. Begin your exploration with a visit to the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, where efforts are made to rehabilitate rare species including langurs and gibbons. You’ll also stop by the turtle conservation area.

After lunch at a local spot, continue into the heart of the park. Visit the ancient Cave of Early Man—evidence of prehistoric human habitation—before beginning a scenic hike through the lush forest. Your trail leads past the park’s oldest tree at Cho Chi and a series of small waterfalls and jungle streams.

Cuc Phuong offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s natural heritage, combining dense biodiversity with breathtaking limestone landscapes. Return to your resort in Ninh Binh by late afternoon and enjoy a relaxed evening.

Enjoy a relaxed morning at your resort. Later, your driver will take you back to Hanoi for your onward flight to Luang Prabang (VN 931 12:55–14:00). Upon arrival in this UNESCO World Heritage-listed town, you’ll be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel for check-in.

Luang Prabang is often described as the most charming and best-preserved traditional town in Southeast Asia. Its peaceful atmosphere, French colonial heritage, saffron-robed monks, and scenic setting along the Mekong River create a unique blend of culture and natural beauty. The remainder of the day is yours to unwind and begin soaking in the laid-back rhythm of Laos.

Rise early if you wish to witness or participate in the sacred ritual of alms giving. Each morning, lines of saffron-robed monks collect offerings of rice and food from the local people—an ancient and moving tradition. Your guide can arrange small offerings if you’d like to join respectfully.

Return to your hotel for breakfast before heading out to Kuang Si Waterfall. Swim in its turquoise pools or hike to the top for a breathtaking view of the surrounding jungle.

In the afternoon, delve into Luang Prabang’s spiritual and royal heritage. Visit the Royal Palace Museum and explore its cultural treasures, then continue to Wat Xiengthong, a prime example of traditional Lao architecture. You’ll also see Wat Visoun and the fascinating TAEC museum, which highlights Laos’s ethnic diversity. End the day with a climb up Mount Phousi for panoramic views of the city and the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers.

After breakfast, set out with your private car for an unforgettable experience at MandaLao Elephant Conservation. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed and introduced to the philosophy of ethical elephant tourism—no riding, only meaningful interaction. Cross the Nam Khan River by long-tail boat to meet the elephants in their natural habitat. Feed them bananas and sugarcane, then walk beside them on a shaded 2.5 km trail through gardens and jungle streams. Along the way, learn about their behaviors, the local flora, and the importance of preserving their environment. After a heartfelt farewell to your elephant companions, return to camp for a delicious Lao lunch made with fresh, organic ingredients.

In the afternoon, enjoy a private boat trip to the mystical Pak Ou Caves. These limestone grottoes, perched above the Mekong River, house over 2,000 Buddha images and have long been a pilgrimage site for the Lao people. Return to Luang Prabang by boat, arriving before 4:30 PM. You’ll then transfer back to your hotel to relax after a fulfilling day in nature and culture.

Spend your morning at leisure in the peaceful surroundings of Luang Prabang. Later, your driver will transfer you to the airport for your flight (VN 931 14:45–16:10) to Siem Reap, gateway to the ancient Khmer Empire. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed and taken to your hotel for check-in. The rest of your evening is free to relax and prepare for tomorrow’s awe-inspiring exploration of the Angkor temples.

Begin the day early with an unforgettable sunrise over Angkor Wat. As the first light touches the towers, admire the majestic beauty of the world’s largest religious monument. After the sun rises, take your time to explore Angkor Wat’s intricate bas-reliefs and majestic architecture—an enduring symbol of Khmer civilization and national pride.

After returning to your hotel for breakfast, continue your exploration with a visit to Angkor Thom, entering through the imposing South Gate. Discover the enigmatic smiling faces of Bayon Temple, the Royal Enclosure, the Elephant Terrace, and the Terrace of the Leper King—monuments that speak to the grandeur and mysticism of the Khmer Empire. Next, visit Ta Prohm, where nature and architecture entwine in one of Angkor’s most atmospheric temples.

In the evening, hop on a Vespa with a private driver for an immersive ride through Siem Reap. Start with a visit to the spiritual sites of Preah Ang Chek and Yeay Teap, then pass the Royal Residence and visit FCC Angkor to explore an art gallery. Continue along the river to Wat Preah Prom Rath before delving into the bustling night market. Sample Cambodian favorites like Nom Banh Chok, Bai Sach Chrouk, grilled skewers, and local desserts. End the night on lively Pub Street with a refreshing drink in hand, soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Today offers a rewarding journey into Cambodia’s lesser-known treasures. Depart Siem Reap for a full-day adventure to Koh Ker, once the capital of the Khmer Empire in the 10th century. Nestled in a remote area, Koh Ker’s centerpiece is Prasat Thom, a 30-meter-high step pyramid rising dramatically above the surrounding forest. Climb to the top for panoramic views and explore the ancient ruins, many still enveloped by jungle and rarely visited by tourists.

As you wander through the temple complex, discover the history and architectural distinctiveness of this former royal capital. Carvings of Garuda and other mythological motifs remain etched into stone blocks, standing as silent guardians of the past.

Enjoy a picnic-style lunch served at a local home or rustic restaurant in the area before returning to Siem Reap in the afternoon. Upon arrival, the evening is yours to relax or stroll through the city at your own pace.

After breakfast, you’ll have time at leisure before being transferred to the airport for your short flight to Danang. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted by your local guide and taken on a scenic drive to your beach resort in Hoi An.

Nestled along Vietnam’s central coast, Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its perfectly preserved ancient trading port. A harmonious blend of Vietnamese, Japanese, Chinese, and European influences, the town is renowned for its lantern-lit streets, vibrant market culture, charming shophouses, and riverside beauty.

Once you check in at your luxurious beachside villa, the rest of your day is yours to relax and unwind. Whether you prefer a walk along the white sand beach or a quiet moment by the pool, this peaceful transition sets the stage for the days of leisure ahead.

These three days are reserved entirely for relaxation at your own pace, allowing you to fully enjoy the tranquility of your resort and the charm of Hoi An. Lounge by the beach, indulge in spa treatments, or explore the local cuisine.

Should you wish to venture out, a range of optional excursions is available. For example, an afternoon photo discovery tour will take you through the ancient streets of Hoi An, offering stunning backdrops for photography, followed by a sunset boat trip to Thanh Ha village and a delicious local dinner.

Alternatively, explore the countryside by bicycle or take a cooking class to learn how to make signature Vietnamese dishes like cao lau or banh xeo.

With its picturesque setting, rich heritage, and relaxed pace, Hoi An offers the perfect interlude in your journey through Indochina.

Enjoy your final morning at the beach before being transferred to Danang Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, your guide will greet you and escort you to your hotel in the city center.

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is a dynamic metropolis with a unique blend of historical architecture, French colonial heritage, and modern skyscrapers. After check-in, the rest of the day is free for you to explore the city on your own.

You may wish to walk to the nearby Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, or the bustling Ben Thanh Market. Take time to soak in the energy of this vibrant southern capital before your full-day city tour tomorrow.

Today begins with a journey to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, located about 60 kilometers from the city. Once a vital base for the Viet Cong during the war, the tunnels showcase the ingenuity of the Vietnamese in creating an extensive underground network complete with kitchens, living quarters, and trapdoors. You’ll have the chance to crawl through a section of the tunnels, gaining insight into wartime life.

After returning to the city, you’ll enjoy lunch before visiting the vibrant Chinese district of Cholon. Explore a colorful flower market and visit local temples to witness daily rituals. The tour also includes a walk through Ben Thanh Market, famous for its wide array of goods, and the less touristy Tan Dinh Market, a favorite among locals for fresh produce and fabrics.

This day blends history, culture, and daily life, providing a well-rounded view of Ho Chi Minh City’s character and contrasts.

After an enriching journey across Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, your adventure comes to an end today. You’ll have free time until your private transfer takes you to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your departure flight.

We hope you leave with unforgettable memories, meaningful cultural experiences, and a deeper appreciation for the warmth and diversity of Indochina. Safe travels and we look forward to welcoming you again!