Best of Indochina 19 Days 18 Nights

Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel in central Hanoi. Settle in and enjoy the rest of your day at leisure. Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, is a charming blend of old and new—with French-colonial architecture, tree-lined boulevards, ancient temples, and bustling street life.

Spend the morning recovering at your own pace after the long flight. In the afternoon, travel across the Red River to Thuy Linh Village, renowned for its vegetable farming. Stroll among lush fields, sample seasonal fruits, and chat with locals before visiting a vibrant market to select ingredients for your private cooking session. At a welcoming local home, join in preparing a traditional Vietnamese dish, learning each step of the culinary process. Conclude the day by enjoying your handmade creation in a cozy setting.

Begin early at Hoan Kiem Lake, joining locals for morning exercises. Visit Ngoc Son Temple and a traditional café to try “cà phê sữa đá” or egg coffee. Sample a banh mi before exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter and colonial landmarks, including St. Joseph’s Cathedral. Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and Hoa Lo Prison for historical context. Savor Bun Cha and Nem spring rolls at a local eatery. In the afternoon, discover the Temple of Literature, enjoy a cyclo ride through the Old Quarter, and unwind with a glass of Bia Hoi among locals.

Depart Hanoi for Mai Chau, stopping en route for photos and local corn snacks. Upon arrival, check in and have lunch before taking a scenic hike through small trails and villages. Explore Pom Coong and Lac villages, where Thai locals demonstrate their weaving crafts. The hike is flexible and tailored to your preference, offering a soft adventure with cultural immersion.

Embark on a morning trek through the forest and hillside fields, encountering farmers and water buffalo along the way. Stop at a local home for lunch and learn about ethnic traditions. In the evening, follow candlelit paths deep into the rainforest to enjoy a private, romantic dinner beside a waterfall—a magical and intimate highlight of your stay.

Enjoy a peaceful morning before heading to Ninh Binh. Explore Van Long Nature Reserve by sampan boat, drifting through caves and past limestone peaks in Vietnam’s largest wetland sanctuary. This tranquil eco-tour showcases a rich biodiversity, including rare flora and fauna. In the evening, celebrate Christmas with a special Gala dinner at your resort.

Cycle through countryside paths to Mua Cave, then climb 500 steps for breathtaking views of Tam Coc. Visit Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital, and admire the temples of Kings Dinh and Le. In the afternoon, enjoy a peaceful boat ride through the Tam Coc grottoes, flanked by towering limestone cliffs and serene rice paddies. Return to your resort to relax.

Leave Ninh Binh behind and journey to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival, board the luxurious Indochine Premium Cruise and set sail through a seascape of limestone karsts. Enjoy a buffet lunch as you cruise past iconic islets. In the afternoon, choose between kayaking or a sampan boat ride to explore Luon Cave. Then, visit Surprise or Me Cung Cave for a guided tour. As the sun sets, join a cooking demonstration or fruit carving session before a refined onboard dinner. End the evening with squid fishing or relaxing under the stars.

Start the day with Tai Chi on deck, followed by breakfast. Board a traditional boat for a full-day adventure through Ha Long and Lan Ha Bays. Swim in hidden lagoons, kayak through limestone formations, and visit a local fishing village. Enjoy a simple Vietnamese lunch on board before returning to your cruise ship in the late afternoon. Unwind with another culinary demonstration and indulge in a fine dining experience. Spend your last night on the bay with leisure activities or quiet stargazing.

Begin with a light breakfast and Tai Chi session. Visit Titov Island to swim or hike for panoramic views. Return to the cruise for brunch as you sail back to Tuan Chau Port. Disembark and transfer to Hanoi for an overnight stay. Enjoy your evening at leisure.

Transfer to the airport for your midday flight to Luang Prabang. Upon arrival, meet your guide and head to your hotel. Rest and take in the city’s serene ambiance. Set at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers, Luang Prabang is a cultural treasure known for its golden temples, colonial charm, and tranquil rhythm.

Rise early to witness or participate in the sacred alms-giving ceremony. After breakfast, explore the Royal Palace Museum and visit Wat Xieng Thong, Wat Mai, and Wat Visoun—each a masterpiece of Lao architecture. In the afternoon, climb Mount Phousi for sweeping views of the city and a stunning sunset over the Mekong.

Begin with a visit to the breathtaking Kuang Si Waterfall, where turquoise cascades invite a refreshing swim. Stop by the nearby bear rescue center. In the afternoon, cruise along the Mekong to the Pak Ou Caves, home to thousands of Buddha statues placed by pilgrims. End the day with a peaceful sunset cruise back to town.

Travel to MandaLao Elephant Conservation and join a group experience learning about elephant behavior. Cross the river and meet the gentle giants, feeding them and walking alongside them through the jungle. Hear stories from mahouts and guides while trekking shaded trails. After lunch, return to Luang Prabang for a restful afternoon.

Enjoy a relaxing morning before flying to Siem Reap. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and unwind. Get ready to explore one of the world’s most magnificent archaeological sites.

Rise early to witness sunrise at Angkor Wat. Explore the majestic complex with your guide. Return for breakfast, then visit Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple, the Royal Enclosure, and Ta Prohm—where jungle trees intertwine with temple ruins. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon.

Venture to the remote Koh Ker complex, once a 10th-century Khmer capital. Climb Prasat Thom for panoramic views and explore the Garuda statues. After lunch, visit Beng Mealea, a jungle-clad temple offering an Indiana Jones-like atmosphere. Return to Siem Reap by evening.

Begin with a private monk blessing at a local pagoda. Cruise across Tonle Sap Lake to Kampong Phluk’s floating village. In the evening, ride a tuk-tuk to visit sacred temples and colonial buildings before joining a vibrant street food tour. Taste Khmer specialties and explore the Old Market and Pub Street.

Enjoy free time until your transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Tour ends.