The Best of Indochina in Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia

Today marks the start of your journey, departing from your selected airport. You’ll be flying to the tranquil city of Luang Prabang in Laos, with connecting flight(s) along the way. 

You’ll arrive in Luang Prabang, Laos – one of Indochina’s most captivating gems.

After landing, you’ll pass through immigration before collecting your luggage. In the arrivals hall, your guide will be waiting for you, dressed in a TourCompass uniform and holding a TourCompass sign, making them easy to spot. You’ll then be driven to your hotel, which is about a 15-minute journey away. Once you arrive, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish.

Luang Prabang is a unique fusion of traditional Lao architecture and French colonial-era charm. This blend is one of the reasons it is listed as a UNESCO world heritage site. Life in Luang Prabang has its own gentle rhythm; it’s lived at a calm pace and with a dignity that’s rarely found elsewhere.

The town centre is nestled on a peninsula where the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers meet. All around, stunning natural beauty unfolds in the form of forested mountains, cascading waterfalls, and hidden caves. Lush greenery weaves its way between golden temples and peaceful, inviting streets.

As evening falls, you can wander through the vibrant night market that springs to life along the town’s main street every night. Here, you’ll discover everything from handmade souvenirs and silverware to colourful scarves and bustling street food stalls serving up grilled snacks and noodle soups.

Today promises a day filled with experiences as you set off on a full-day excursion in and around Luang Prabang.

After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up. You’ll start by discovering several of the cultural highlights of this former royal capital. Among other sites, you’ll visit Wat Xieng Thong, one of the city’s largest and most intricately decorated temples, as well as Wat Mai, which is famous for its beautiful gilded façade.

Next, you’ll continue to the former Royal Palace, built in 1904 during the colonial era for King Sisavang Vong. Today, the palace houses the National Museum, where you can wander through the well-preserved royal chambers and admire a collection of rare religious and cultural artefacts. It’s easy to imagine how life once unfolded amid these polished floors.

The tour then heads to Mount Phousi, located just a kilometre away. Here, 328 steps lead you to the summit. Along the way, you’ll pass small temples and Buddha statues, with opportunities to pause and take in the surroundings. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with a picturesque panoramic view of Luang Prabang, its rivers, temples, and the lush landscapes – all framed by verdant mountains.

After enjoying a lovely lunch, you’ll head 30 km south to the Kuang Si Waterfall. Surrounded by lush, tropical jungle, the water tumbles down the steep hillside in a series of cascades over three levels. The highest drop reaches 60 metres, and at the lowest level you can take a dip in the tranquil, turquoise pools.

The day continues with a visit to the nearby Sun Bear Reserve. Managed by the organisation Free The Bears, the reserve is a sanctuary for vulnerable Malayan sun bears, a species critically endangered due to their bile being used in traditional medicine. Here, you’ll gain fascinating insights into how the centre protects and cares for these beautiful bears.

Afterwards, you will be driven back to your hotel in Luang Prabang.

Every morning, in the early hours, a remarkable scene unfolds in Luang Prabang. Hundreds of monks move silently through the city streets to collect alms. Each family sends a representative out with food or drinks, which are placed in the monks’ bowls. It’s hard not to be deeply moved by the respectful silence and great sense of dignity that accompany this daily ritual.

The rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish. Take a stroll through the charming streets, where old French colonial houses sit side by side with traditional Lao wooden villas, and little cafés and art shops are tucked behind colourful shutters and lanterns strung low. This is the perfect opportunity to simply go with the flow, perhaps losing yourself for a while in the city’s relaxed atmosphere.

A perfect spot to sit and unwind is along the banks of the Mekong River, where you can enjoy a freshly made smoothie or a strong Laotian coffee while watching the boats drift quietly past. If you’d like to delve deeper into the local culture, the city also offers several small museums and workshops where you can discover traditional textile weaving, papermaking, or Laotian cookery.

In the evening, you can explore the night market, hunt for those final souvenirs, or treat your taste buds to a wide range of local dishes.

Today marks your farewell to Laos. You’ll be collected from your hotel and driven to Luang Prabang International Airport, where you’ll board your flight to Hanoi, Vietnam.

You’ll arrive at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, where you will pass through immigration and collect your luggage. Your guide will be waiting for you outside the arrivals hall, just beyond the exit doors. Look out for the guide in a TourCompass uniform holding a TourCompass sign, making it easy for you to spot them.

Afterwards, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, and once you’ve checked in, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy your first impressions of Vietnam’s vibrant capital city at your own pace.

We highly recommend exploring the bustling, narrow streets of the Old Quarter, where every alleyway reveals the enticing aromas, sounds, and everyday scenes of Vietnamese life. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing stroll around the peaceful Hoan Kiem Lake, a favourite urban oasis for locals, shaded by trees and offering a perfect spot to soak up the atmosphere of the city.

Today, an exciting city tour awaits, taking you to some of Hanoi’s most iconic attractions.

You’ll be picked up from your hotel by your guide, and the day begins with a Vietnamese coffee at a local café overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake. This is the city’s green heart, a natural gathering place where both young and old Hanoians come together.

From here, you’ll cross the iconic Huc Bridge to the Ngoc Son Temple, situated in the middle of the beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake. The bridge’s name means “the place touched by the morning sun’s rays”. Here you’ll hear the legend of the emperor, the magical sword, and the giant turtle, and discover how the lake got its name and why it holds such special significance for the city.

Next, you’ll be driven to the Temple of Literature, a tranquil complex originally built in the 12th century by followers of the Chinese philosopher Confucius. With almost a thousand years of history, the temple is a rare and beautifully preserved example of traditional Vietnamese architecture, complete with columned corridors, ponds, and lush courtyards. To this day, young students still come here to pray for luck with their exams.

Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant.

The tour then continues in a classic cycle rickshaw – known locally as a cyclo – weaving through the labyrinth of narrow streets and bustling activity in the old quarter. This historic neighbourhood is famous for its 36 streets, each originally named after the goods sold there: bamboo, silk, paper, and tin, to name a few. Many of these street names remain today, and the area exudes local charm, with Hanoians still shopping, chatting with neighbours, and serving steaming bowls of pho from vibrant street kitchens.

After your exciting cyclo ride, you’ll visit the historic Long Bien Bridge – an iconic landmark dating back to the French colonial era, built at the start of the 20th century. This distinctive iron bridge spans the Red River and, though heavily damaged during the Vietnam War, stands today as a testament to Hanoi’s resilience. Reserved for trains, cyclists, and pedestrians, the bridge offers a memorable atmosphere. Here, you might encounter locals cycling to work or selling fresh fruit beside the tracks, while enjoying views of small, verdant river islands with cultivated fields right in the heart of the city – a favourite scene for both photographers and travellers looking to capture the very essence of Hanoi.

The day’s sightseeing tour concludes with a performance at a water puppet theatre, an age-old Vietnamese tradition where intricately carved puppets dance across the water’s surface, accompanied by live music and classic storytelling.

After an eventful day, you will be driven back to your hotel, and the evening is yours to enjoy as you wish.

The day is yours to enjoy in Hanoi, whether you wish to set off on your own adventures or opt for one of our exciting optional tours, before the journey continues by overnight train to Sapa in northern Vietnam.

Your hotel room is at your disposal right up until departure, so you can unwind and perhaps freshen up with a shower. We recommend packing a backpack for your stay in Sapa and leaving your main luggage at the hotel in Hanoi until your return.

Hanoi is truly a feast for the senses. Spend a few hours around the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake, where narrow streets and elegant French colonial buildings are home to small shops, welcoming cafés, and vibrant art galleries. Settle down with a cup of Vietnamese coffee and watch daily life unfold, or pay a visit to the iconic Train Street, where trains pass astonishingly close to the street’s cafés.

At lunchtime, head out in search of Hanoi’s famous street food. Treat yourself to a steaming bowl of pho, breathe in the delicious aroma of grilled bun cha, or pick up a crisp banh mi to take with you on the go.

We recommend dining in Hanoi this evening – perhaps in the Old Quarter, where you can also stock up on food, snacks, and drinks for your train journey.

In the early evening, your guide will collect you at your hotel and take you to Hanoi’s railway station, where you’ll board the overnight train to Lao Cai, a peaceful border town near the Chinese frontier. By default, you’ll travel in a shared 4-berth sleeper compartment, but for an additional fee, you may upgrade to a private compartment if you’d prefer a quieter journey.

Upon arrival at Lao Cai railway station, you’ll be greeted by your local guide, who will accompany you on a one-hour drive to the charming mountain town of Sapa. Sapa is renowned for its breathtaking rice terraces and vibrant minority cultures, including the Hmong people. The journey takes you along winding mountain roads through stunning landscapes, and when you arrive in Sapa, you’ll stop at a cosy local café. Here, you can relax with a well-deserved break, enjoy a delicious breakfast, and hear more about the plans for the day ahead.

Next, you’ll be driven to a small village set amid the beautiful Muong Hoa Valley—a drive of around one hour. Here, you’ll set off on a scenic one-and-a-half to two-hour trek along pathways linking the region’s remote village communities. The route winds across emerald mountainsides and lush valleys, and on clear days, you’ll be treated to views of the majestic Fansipan mountain. Be sure to wear sturdy, non-slip shoes, as the trails can be slippery, especially when wet.

Along the way, you’ll visit the Hmong villages of Sau Chua and Sa Seng. Here, you’ll gain a unique insight into the daily lives of ethnic minorities, discovering more about their customs, traditions, and the strong sense of community that binds them together. The walk concludes with a friendly lunch hosted by a local family.

After lunch, you’ll be driven to your hotel in Sapa for check-in, and the rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish. Perhaps you’ll be tempted to explore the city’s vibrant markets, its scenic viewpoints, and the distinctive mist that earned Sapa the nickname ‘The Misty Town’?

You will have the morning and early afternoon free to explore as you wish. Why not stroll past the central square by the old stone church, one of Sapa’s most recognisable landmarks? Here, women from the Hmong and Dao tribes sell vibrant handicrafts—embroidered bags, scarves, and jewellery—dressed in their distinctive, colourful traditional costumes. It’s a wonderful spot to discover a unique souvenir or simply take in the atmosphere while watching daily life in Sapa unfold.

You will check out of the hotel at midday. Afterwards, you can enjoy lunch (not included) at the hotel or perhaps at one of the town’s restaurants before being collected and driven back to your hotel in Hanoi. The journey takes approximately 5½ hours, with a stop along the way, and you’ll arrive back in Hanoi in the early evening.

Your final evening in Hanoi offers a variety of options, depending on your mood and energy levels. Perhaps you’d like to enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city? Alternatively, you might treat yourself to a traditional foot massage or a relaxing spa treatment at one of the city’s inviting salons—the perfect way to end your time in Hanoi with a spot of well-deserved pampering.

Early in the morning, you’ll leave Hanoi and head east towards the coast, where Bai Tu Long Bay awaits. The drive takes around 3½ to 4 hours and takes you through a changing landscape of city life, quaint rural villages, and lush green rice paddies. Along the way, there’s a short stop to stretch your legs and perhaps pick up some refreshments before arriving at the Ha Long International Cruise Port, where your enchanting mini-cruise begins.

Bai Tu Long Bay lies just northeast of its famous neighbour, Ha Long Bay, and is even closer to the border with China. Both bays share the same impressive geological setting, with their thousands of limestone karsts, verdant islets, and sparkling emerald waters. However, Bai Tu Long Bay receives far fewer visitors than Ha Long Bay, offering a calmer, more authentic, and peaceful experience. 

After checking in, you’ll be transferred to your boat by tender. On board, you’ll be welcomed with a refreshing drink and a brief safety introduction. Once you’ve settled into your cabin, a delicious Vietnamese lunch is served as the ship gently cruises deeper into the bay.

In the afternoon, you can enjoy a kayaking trip around the beautiful island of Cap La, a picturesque area famed for its majestic limestone formations and crystal-clear coves. The water is usually calm and shallow, making it safe and enjoyable for both beginners and experienced kayakers to paddle amongst the rocks and tranquil lagoons. You can also take a refreshing dip or simply sit back and soak up the peace and stunning natural scenery.

Back on board, a fascinating Vietnamese cookery demonstration awaits, where you’ll learn to prepare classic specialities such as freshly made spring rolls and locally caught fish.

In the evening, a delightful dinner is served in the ship’s restaurant. Afterwards, you can join in some games, try your hand at squid fishing, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the bay beneath the starry sky.

Please note: In the event of adverse weather, the Vietnamese authorities reserve the right to close the bay to all sailing for safety reasons. This only happens a few times a year, but should it occur, your mini-cruise will be replaced with a hotel stay and an alternative excursion.

If you’re an early riser, you can begin your day with an optional tai chi session on the sun deck. Alternatively, you might prefer to savour the tranquillity with a cup of tea or coffee in hand as you gaze out across the calm waters of Bai Tu Long Bay, before a light, Western-style breakfast is served in the ship’s restaurant.

After breakfast, your tour continues to the beautiful Thien Canh Son Cave, renowned for its impressive stalactite formations. The cave is tucked away behind a steep stairway carved into the cliffside, leading you to dramatic limestone pillars and cool chambers illuminated by natural daylight.

Back on board, there’s time to pack and prepare for check-out before enjoying a traditional Vietnamese lunch. As you dine, the ship quietly cruises back towards the harbour, giving you a chance to soak in the final enchanting views of the bay’s fairytale landscape from the deck.

You will disembark at Ha Long International Port, where your guide and driver will be waiting to take you to Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi. From here, you’ll fly to Hué in central Vietnam – a flight of around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Your guide will be waiting outside the arrivals hall, beyond the exit doors, dressed in a TourCompass uniform and holding a TourCompass sign for easy identification. You’ll then be driven to your hotel in the heart of the city.

After check-in, you are free to spend the rest of the day as you wish. You may choose to join one of our optional tours, or simply set out to explore the city at your own pace.

Hué offers a host of cosy options for your evening. For example, take a stroll along the Perfume River, where the promenade is beautifully lit and you can watch the small boats gliding past in the dark. Here, you’ll also find charming cafés and street food stalls serving up local specialities such as Bun bo Hué, a spicy local noodle soup.

There are also several great restaurants and bars in the city centre. For a unique perspective, visit one of the inviting rooftop terraces, where you’ll be treated to stunning views over Hué.

After breakfast, you’ll set off for an exciting encounter with Hue’s most impressive attractions. Today’s excursion will transport you back to the grandeur of imperial times, offering an insight into Vietnam’s royal history, art, and spiritual life.

Your guide will collect you from your hotel, and your first stop is the ancient Imperial City – an imposing fortress constructed in the early 1800s when the Nguyen dynasty made Hue their capital. Surrounded by moats and massive walls, the citadel housed both the imperial administration and the living quarters of the royal family. Inspired by Beijing’s Forbidden City, and despite damage sustained during both the Indochina and Vietnam wars, parts of the palace and sacred chambers still stand in testament to the city’s former glory. Today, UNESCO has launched extensive restoration projects to breathe new life into this historic complex.

Next, you’ll visit the tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh, which stands out significantly from the other imperial tombs in the area. Built in the early 1900s, the complex blends traditional Vietnamese features with European baroque and gothic styles. The result is an architectural masterpiece, both grand and intricately detailed, serving as a tribute to the late emperor and a reflection of his fascination with Western art and culture.

Your next stop is the Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest and most iconic religious landmark in Hue. Perched high above the Perfume River, this pagoda has stood as a significant centre of Buddhism in central Vietnam for over 400 years. The octagonal tower rises majestically towards the sky, creating a tranquil setting for the temple and the monastic community that continues to live and practise here.

Afterwards, you’ll visit a small, local exhibition of traditional Vietnamese paintings. Here, you can not only admire the vivid artworks but also try your hand with the brushes yourself, experiencing first-hand the soothing sense of focus that defines this artistic tradition.

The day’s experiences conclude with an atmospheric boat trip along the Perfume River, giving you the chance to reflect on your day’s adventures as the boat quietly glides through the landscape and past the city that lines its banks.

You’ll then be driven back to your hotel, where you’ll have the rest of your time in Hue at your leisure.

Today, you will bid farewell to Hué. You’ll be collected from your hotel, and your journey begins along one of Vietnam’s most scenic routes towards the enchanting town of Hoi An.

The route at times follows the coastline and winds its way up through the Truong Son Mountains, where you’ll cross the spectacular Hai Van Pass, also known as the “Pass of Clouds”. From here, the views are simply breathtaking, with lush green mountains on one side and the endless blue horizon of the South China Sea on the other.

After 3–4 hours, you’ll arrive at your hotel in Hoi An, and following check-in, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish.

Hoi An is a destination in its own right and a place you’ll find yourself quickly falling in love with. The old quarter, which is listed as a UNESCO world heritage site, is especially renowned for its well-preserved architecture, proud silk-making traditions, and abundance of skilled tailors. Life here feels as if it moves at a gentler pace, with history woven into every street, façade, and little shop.

The Thu Bon River runs through the heart of the city, which in the 16th and 17th centuries was a vital hub for flourishing international trade. Today, the riverside provides a picturesque and tranquil setting for daily life, with many small boats still gliding gracefully along the water.

Moving away from the river, you’ll discover a maze of charming little streets. Here, you’ll be greeted by a vibrant blend of Japanese timber houses, Chinese assembly halls, elegant French colonial buildings, and the iconic merchant houses. Colourful lanterns dangle like garlands above the streets, casting a magical glow—especially as night falls. Shops, street food stalls, cosy cafés, and petite restaurants are strung together like pearls, inviting you to unwind and explore at your own pace.

Even though Hoi An draws plenty of visitors, the town manages to retain its tranquillity, authenticity, and warm atmosphere. This is thanks in large part to the fact that cars and motorised traffic are banned from the historic quarter, allowing you to wander the streets in peace and soak up the unique ambience.

The day is yours to spend as you wish, and Hoi An has a wealth of experiences to offer, whether you’re after relaxation, adventure, or cultural discoveries.

Perhaps a leisurely day by the sea appeals to you? Rent a bicycle and cycle out to one of the nearby beaches, Cua Dai or An Bang, where soft sands and swaying palms create the ideal setting for relaxation and a refreshing dip in the warm ocean. Alternatively, you could wander through the enchanting streets and alleyways of Hoi An, discovering unique shops, inviting cafés, and vibrant markets. You might even be tempted to visit a local tailor and have an outfit made to measure – a wonderful keepsake to take home.

If you’re keen to explore the area around Hoi An, you can choose from our exciting optional tours, which you can read more about below.

Today you’ll be collected from your hotel and driven to Da Nang airport – a journey of just under an hour. From here, you’ll catch your flight south to Vietnam’s largest and most vibrant metropolis, Ho Chi Minh City.

You’ll arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City. Your guide will be waiting outside the arrivals hall, just past the exit doors. They’ll be wearing a TourCompass uniform and holding a TourCompass sign, making it easy for you to spot them. From here, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, which is conveniently located in District 1, the very heart of the city. This area is still commonly referred to as Saigon and is considered the historic and cultural core of the city, while the surrounding districts collectively make up Ho Chi Minh City.

After spending time in the peaceful atmosphere of Hoi An, arriving in Ho Chi Minh City can feel quite overwhelming. With a population of around ten million – and almost as many scooters and motorbikes whizzing past – the city is a whirlwind of activity. Yet amid the hustle and bustle, you’ll discover a modern and endlessly fascinating city in rapid transformation. The contrast is striking, with sleek glass skyscrapers standing shoulder to shoulder with elegant colonial-era buildings from the French period.

Once you’ve checked in at your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you please. Perhaps you’re in the mood to unwind by the pool with a refreshing drink. Or why not sample a cup of Vietnamese iced coffee at one of the city’s countless cafés? Ho Chi Minh City is renowned for its vibrant coffee culture, offering everything from trendy cafés with minimalist décor to charming local joints with plastic chairs, serving coffee brewed the traditional drip way.

If you’re keen to discover the city’s buzzing food scene, take a stroll through the streets of districts 1 and 3. Here, you’ll find everything from steaming bowls of pho and crispy banh xeo pancakes to fragrant street food stalls and bustling food markets.

Today, you’ll enjoy an exciting half-day city tour in Ho Chi Minh City.

Your guide and driver will collect you from your hotel, and together you’ll head to the elegant Dong Khoi Street—one of Saigon’s most iconic boulevards. Winding its way through the heart of the old colonial district, this street is lined with French architecture, designer boutiques, art galleries, and cosy cafés all nestled side by side. It’s a place brimming with atmosphere and history, having played a central role in the city’s story—from colonial grandeur and wartime upheaval to today’s vibrant metropolis. It also was featured in key scenes in Graham Greene’s classic, The Quiet American.

You’ll pass the Saigon Opera House, an architectural masterpiece dating back to 1901 and an enduring symbol of the city’s cultural heritage. The opera house has had a remarkable past, serving as a bomb shelter and later hosting the lower house of the South Vietnamese parliament.

Next, you’ll visit the Old Post Office, designed by the world-renowned French engineer Gustave Eiffel. With its beautiful arches, elegant ironwork and sense of history, this landmark stands as a testament to the French influence on Ho Chi Minh City.

Directly opposite the Old Post Office stands the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, built between 1863 and 1880. This cathedral is an impressive remnant of the French colonial era, instantly recognisable by its distinct red bricks and soaring spires.

As you face the church, there is a grey building behind you. Some might recognise it as “Pittman Apartments” on 22 Gia Long Street—a site made famous by a photograph taken on April 29^th, 1975 by the Dutch photographer Hubert van Es, during the fall of Saigon. It was here that a helicopter landed on the rooftop, capturing a scene many mistakenly thought took place at the American embassy. Your guide will share the dramatic story of the evacuation and reveal the hidden role this building played in the war’s final hours.

The tour then continues to the historic Reunification Palace, the site where the Vietnam War—or the American War, as it is known locally—officially came to an end. On April 30^th, 1975, a North Vietnamese tank crashed through the palace gates, bringing a brutal conflict that claimed the lives of around 58,000 Americans and a staggering three million Vietnamese to a close. Here you will see, among other things, the war rooms, the grand halls, and the president’s office.

The tour continues to the War Remnants Museum, where you’ll gain a powerful insight into the horrors of war. The exhibitions lay bare the harsh realities of conflict and the lasting human consequences it has left behind.

The next stop is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s hidden gems, a place most travellers would never discover on their own: the Saigon Commandos Museum. Here, you’ll experience a rare glimpse of everyday life during the war, as told by a local resident. The museum is housed in a modest 1963 building, which at first glance appears to be a typical home. However, behind its facade was once an operations base led by Tran Van Lai, a Vietnamese resistance fighter who, during the war, masqueraded as a furniture maker while secretly assisting Ho Chi Minh City’s commando units with weapon storage and mission planning. The exhibits vividly tell the story of these courageous commandos, detailing their lives of strategy, covert operations, and survival under extreme conditions.

To round off your visit, you can enjoy a drink in the museum’s café, where you’ll have the chance to try their signature “butter beer”.

You’ll then be driven back to your hotel, where the rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish.

Today, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Ho Chi Minh City at your own pace.

The city offers many different faces, and you have the whole day to experience the sides that interest you most, whether it’s history, creative city life, or the flavours of the local cuisine.

If you want to get a feel for the city’s modern pulse, you might like to visit Café Apartment, which is located right on Nguyen Hue promenade, the city’s broad pedestrian street. Once an apartment building, Café Apartment now houses independent coffee shops, design boutiques, and creative studios. Each floor has its own unique atmosphere, offering a local introduction to the youthful side of Ho Chi Minh City.

You could also cross the river to District 2, a rapidly developing area where modern architecture, green spaces, and trendy cafés set the scene. Here, you’ll find tranquil surroundings and a mix of international restaurants, specialist shops, and small galleries. The trendy Thao Dien neighbourhood is especially popular, with a laid-back vibe that attracts both locals and travellers alike.

At dusk, take a stroll down Nguyen Hue promenade, which is lined with flowers, fountains, and atmospheric architecture. Here, you’ll experience the unique city life as locals gather with street performers, dancers, and young families, creating a charming and lively mix. The relaxed and vibrant atmosphere reaches its height around the illuminated city hall.

After the sun has set, there’s no better way to round off your day than by taking in sweeping views over the sea of city lights from the top of one of Ho Chi Minh City’s skyscrapers, such as Bitexco Financial Tower or Landmark 81.

After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel, and the journey begins towards the lush Mekong Delta, one of Vietnam’s most fertile and vibrant regions. The Mekong River starts its journey in the Himalayas, flowing for around 4,500 km through six countries before fanning out into the vast delta area south of Ho Chi Minh City. Covering approximately 40,000 square kilometres, the amount of the delta under water varies depending on the strength of the rainy season and the time of year.

You won’t have travelled far out of Ho Chi Minh City before the scenery begins to change. Along the way, you’ll watch as the landscape transforms into verdant fields, criss-crossed by winding rivers and canals that meander through the flat countryside. It’s common to see local farmers working the land while water buffalo graze by the roadside and roadside stalls tempt you with fresh fruit.

After about a two and a half hours’ drive, you’ll arrive at the town of Cai Be, a charming river town in the Mekong Delta famous for its lush fruit orchards and laid-back rural atmosphere. Here, you’ll board a boat and set off to explore the vibrant delta. You’ll visit local workshops, where skilled artisans craft products from coconut. Afterwards, you’ll continue in a little sampan – a traditional, hand-rowed wooden boat – weaving through the narrow, winding canals of the Mekong Delta.

Your boat journey will continue to a tranquil island in the heart of the Mekong River, where you’ll enjoy a Vietnamese lunch prepared from fresh, local ingredients, surrounded by lush greenery and the peaceful rhythm of river life.

After lunch, you’ll cruise back to the mainland and stop by a pottery workshop. Here, you can watch local artisans keeping age-old traditions alive and hear first-hand about their passion for the craft.

The next stop is our sustainability project in Vinh Long, launched by our local partner. A gentle stroll through the village awaits, where your guide will share insights into the initiative. You’ll also get the chance to experience traditional rural life for yourself by joining local farmers in the rice fields—either planting tender seedlings or helping with the harvest, depending on the season. It’s an eye-opening, hands-on encounter that offers a unique glimpse into daily life in Vietnam’s countryside and the efforts behind sustainable farming. By joining the tour, you’re also making a difference for families in Vinh Long, as a percentage of your tour price goes directly to this project, which you can learn more about here.

After an exciting and insightful day, you’ll be transferred to your accommodation in Cai Be, located about an hour’s drive away.

Today, you’ll gain a unique insight into everyday life and vibrant handicraft traditions in the small village communities of Tra Vinh. Tra Vinh is a peaceful and authentic provincial town located in the southern Mekong Delta, home to a large Khmer population. The colourful pagodas, gentle pace of life, and spiritual atmosphere give the city its distinctive character, setting the perfect scene for today’s discoveries.

You’ll be collected from your hotel in Cai Be and driven to the tranquil Ba Om Lake in Tra Vinh, a captivating town just over a two hours’ drive away. Here, enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake before a traditional tuk tuk whisks you away to Ang Pagoda and the Khmer Museum, offering fascinating insights into the region’s cultural and spiritual heritage.

Next up is a performance of traditional Khmer music and dance at a local community hall—an atmospheric introduction to the area’s rich cultural legacy.

Your tuk tuk then meanders through the quiet lanes of the village. Your first stop is at a local family’s home where you’ll sample com dep (green rice flakes) and see how popped rice is made.

The tour continues with a visit to a talented Khmer artist who creates statues and masks for the local pagodas.

Next, you’ll visit Lo Gach Pagoda, where you will take part in a private blessing ceremony before strolling through the adjoining gardens. Here, you’ll learn about the rare macapuno coconut, a local delicacy renowned for its creamy, almost jelly-like consistency and sweet, aromatic flavour.

To round off the experience, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch featuring the very best of Khmer cuisine.

After an exciting day, you’ll be driven to your hotel in Ben Tre, where you will spend the night. Ben Tre is a lush province in the Mekong Delta, known as the coconut capital of Vietnam. Here, you’ll be greeted by scenic waterways, verdant palm trees, and a gentle pace of life, offering an authentic glimpse into riverside living.

Today, you’ll say goodbye to Vietnam and set course for Siem Reap in Cambodia. You will be picked up from your hotel and driven to Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat International Airport – a journey of around three hours, with stops along the way. From here, your flight to Siem Reap will begin.

Upon landing at Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, you’ll make your way through immigration and collect your luggage. Your guide will be waiting outside the arrivals hall, easy to spot in a TourCompass uniform and holding a TourCompass sign, so you can find them easily. Already at this moment, you’ll sense the warmth and pride of the welcoming Cambodian people. You will then be driven to your hotel in the heart of Siem Reap – a journey of about an hour and a half.

After arrival and check-in, the rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish.

Siem Reap is a laid-back, charming town that invites you to enjoy a leisurely stroll through the French Quarter or beneath the shady trees along the Siem Reap River. Here, you’ll discover small shops, cosy cafés, and bustling markets. In the evening, you can wander through the lively night market, where the aroma of tempting Khmer specialities is simply irresistible. Try some delicious grilled meat or a spicy noodle dish, pulling up a stool among the locals as they enjoy a snack. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not sample a grilled cricket on a skewer?

A spectacular day awaits, with the chance to explore one of the world’s true wonders: the majestic Angkor Wat temple, set within the ancient city of Angkor – a UNESCO world heritage site.

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, you’ll be collected from your hotel by your guide and driver, who will take you approximately fifteen minutes outside the city to this awe-inspiring temple complex. As the site is vast, longer distances will be covered by car, while you explore the remarkable attractions on foot alongside your knowledgeable guide.

Your day will begin at the South Gate of Angkor Thom, where imposing statues of gods and demons stand guard at the entrance. From here, you’ll head to the iconic Bayon Temple, famed for its hundreds of serene, smiling faces adorning its towering spires. The intricately carved bas-reliefs are particularly impressive, portraying scenes from daily life as well as epic battles between the Khmer and the ancient Thais.

You will also visit Phimeanakas, a pyramid-shaped temple with two pools located behind it, once used for religious rituals. Make your way up to the temple’s summit to take in splendid views across the Angkor area.

Discover the Elephant Terrace, where a long wall is adorned with rows of elaborately carved elephant heads. This is where King Jayavarman once surveyed his army. Close by lies the Terrace of the Leper King, featuring a statue of Yama, the god of death in Hindu mythology.

After a short drive, you’ll arrive at Ta Prohm, which stands apart from the other temples. Here, huge and beautiful trees have taken root among the ruins, with nature and stone merging to form a truly mesmerising scene.

You’ll then head back to Siem Reap for lunch and a well-deserved break from the midday sun.

The highlight of the day awaits in the afternoon: the iconic Angkor Wat temple, the world’s largest religious monument and Cambodia’s best-preserved temple. Few can fail to be moved by this spectacular structure, with its three ascending levels crowned by five lotus-shaped towers. As you wander the inner courtyards and arched corridors, you’ll be captivated by the endless friezes and magnificent carvings. From the uppermost level, there are breathtaking views across the entire site.

End the day by watching the sunset over the jungle from the top of Phnom Bakheng Temple, before returning to your hotel.

The day is yours to relax by the pool, explore the city, or take advantage of one of our exciting optional tours, which you can read more about below.

If you choose to explore the city, you might, for example, visit the charming Royal Gardens. How about a leisurely stroll through the city’s delightful side streets, where you’ll come across small temples with golden roofs and the prettiest gardens? Alternatively, you can settle down at one of the many inviting cafés along the river and watch the world go by.

In the evening, Pub Street comes alive with energy and good cheer. With its abundance of restaurants and bars, it’s the natural gathering spot in Siem Reap.

Today marks the end of your Indochina adventure. You’ll be collected from your hotel and driven to Siem Reap Angkor International Airport. From here, your return journey to Europe begins, with connecting flights along the way.

You’ll land at your selected airport after a wonderful tour, filled with memories and impressions from three incredible countries.