Vietnam & Cambodia Highlights Tour

FLY TO SAIGON

Fly from Auckland to Sydney with Vietnam Airlines. (Other options are available).

Fly from Sydney to Saigon with Vietnam Airlines.

On arrival in Saigon you will be met and transferred to your hotel by private car.

SAIGON - FULL DAY TOUR

After breakfast drive away from the city centre toward the Cu Chi district. Leaving the city behind, the scenery changes to views of rice paddies, villagers drying noodles by the side of the road and other scenes typical to southern Vietnam. 

Arrive at the entrance of the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, an incredible underground tunnel network constructed by Vietnamese resistance fighters (Viet Cong) during both the French and American wars.

Hear the tales of how these tunnels were built while walking through the forest. Visit two sections of the tunnel where it is possible to crawl inside to experience first-hand what life was like living underground. There are also several other informative displays and war relics around the area to explore.

After this morning’s Cu Chi Tunnels tour, return to the city centre in time for lunch. Then take a closer look at the city itself, starting at Reunification Hall.

This fascinating building, once known as the Presidential Palace, is filled with history. Hear the story of how, on 30 April 1975, North Vietnamese tanks seized the building as Saigon fell.

Continue to the Old Post Office and Notre Dame Cathedral, two colonial-style monuments with interesting pasts.

The final stop of the day is Ben Thanh market. Located in the heart of the city, this market is one of the liveliest in the area. Rub shoulders with the locals while browsing the countless stalls selling fruits, tea and dry goods.

Return to the hotel and reflect back upon this incredible day of history and local culture.

MEKONG DELTA - FULL DAY EXCURSION

Leave the busy streets and modern buildings of Saigon behind on this Ben Tre day trip.

Following breakfast, drive south of the city to the Mekong Delta, a remarkable agricultural area referred to as ‘the rice bowl of Vietnam’.

On arrival in Ben Tre Province, board a local boat for a first glimpse of life on the Mekong Delta’s maze of waterways.

Cruise among the river islands which have whimsical names such as Dragon, Unicorn, Turtle and Phoenix Islands. En-route visit a small factory producing handicrafts made of coconut – a material found in abundance in the Mekong region. Also, visit Turtle Island to explore an orchard and taste its fresh, tropical fruits.

Then switch gears and travel by horse-driven cart for a different perspective. Cruise along country roads to a lush garden. Taste the honey that is harvested by the residents and famous throughout Vietnam.

Return to the waterways, this time using a rowing boat. Taking advantage of this boat’s smaller size, cruise up narrow Xep canal which is set amongst a dense grove of palm trees.

Following this Delta adventure, return to land for lunch. Before returning to the big city, stop at Vinh Trang Pagoda. This massive Buddhist pagoda boasts impressive architecture and an incredible collection of statues, including a life-size jade image.

Return to Saigon late this afternoon, filled with fantastic memories of a day in the Delta.

FLY TO PHNOM PENH

Today you will be collected from your hotel and transferred to the airport for your onward flight.

Fly from Saigon to Phnom Penh with Vietnam Airlines.

On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel by private car.

PHNOM PENH - FULL DAY TOUR

Get to know Phnom Penh, a vibrant city steeped in history.

Begin in Phnom Penh with a visit to the Royal Palace in the city centre. Explore the majestic compound and step back in time to when the Kingdom flourished.

See the spectacular reception halls and historic royal costumes. The elegant Silver Pagoda, with its solid-silver floor, is a reminder of the prosperity of the former royal families.

Continue to the adjacent National Museum. Housed in a beautiful old building surrounded by tropical gardens, the museum is a tranquil oasis in the busy city centre. Go inside to see seemingly endless displays of art and artefacts dating back to the pre-Angkorian era.

Continue to the hill top pagoda of Wat Phnom, which offers fabulous views of the city below.

Explore the more recent history of Cambodia this afternoon. Visit Tuol Prison (S-21) and the Killing Fields at sites used by the Khmer Rouge regime when they ravaged the country in the 1970's and 80's. The lasting effects of this tragic period are still being felt. Although the visits are sombre, knowing about this era is essential in helping to understand present-day Cambodia.

Before wrapping up the sightseeing in Phnom Penh, pay a visit to the Russian Market. This bustling bazaar earned its name in the 1980's as the expat Russian population often shopped here. These days it is stocked with everything from souvenirs to local handicrafts, silver jewellery and electronic goods.

FLY TO SIEM REAP

You will be collected from your hotel in Phnom Penh and transferred to the airport by private car for your onward flight.

Fly from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap with Cambodia Angkor Air.

On arrival in Siem Reap you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

SIEM REAP - FULL DAY TOUR ANGKOR TEMPLES

The city of Yasodharapura, now known as the Angkor Archaeological Park, was the capital of the Angkor empire for more than 500 years.

On this full day Angkor sightseeing tour, explore centuries of temples alongside an expert local guide.

Beginning from 07:30, the entire Angkor Park is open to visitors but many are still strolling around Angkor Wat.

Consequently, this is the best time to experience the temple you most wish to see with the fewest number of other visitors. Consider Ta Prohm, the temple made famous by the Angelina Jolie film Tomb Raider, which is otherwise best known for the trees and vines growing atop the temple walls.

The temple is a perfect example of how nature has crept in and reclaimed its land after the fall of the Angkorian empire. Enter from the east, just as the temple opens, to avoid the crowds.

After leaving Ta Prohm, the next temple you’ll wish to visit is Bayon, the temple at the center of Angkor Thom city, built by the last great king: Jayavarman VII.

A tour of the city can begin at The Terrace of The Elephants and the Royal Palace enclosure. The forested grounds are beautiful in the morning. Visit the Phimeanakas and Baphuon before making your way to Bayon.

Take a stroll around the lower galleries of carvings of Bayon, which depict fascinating scenes of life from the late 11th century, then find a quiet spot on the exterior of the temple to appreciate the 52 towers featuring faces of the Buddha looking out into the jungle around you.

Optional: Preah Khan - For some, the above is enough to enjoy before lunch, returning to the hotel for a dip in the pool before eating in town.

Others may wish to stay in the park for lunch in order to visit another temple, Preah Khan. Some restaurants in the park have air-conditioning and tour groups (near Angkor Wat and Srah Srang) and some have fans and hammocks with lower prices (Preah Khan and Angkor Thom). 

Journey north of Angkor Thom to Preah Khan, originally known as “the city of victorious royal fortune,” and now named after The Sacred Sword that some believe may have once been housed here.

Built in the late-12th century in honor of the great King Jayavarman VII’s father, this massive temple complex originally had a population of 97,840 in its service.

Less frequently visited than its counterpart Ta Prohm (which was built for the king’s mother), Preah Khan is similar in design but is larger and more complex, and features numerous unique structures and carvings.

Enter from the east with the morning light to your back and enjoy the sounds of exotic wildlife that now make the forested compound their home. Venture into the crumbling corridors of the labyrinthian complex in search of hidden features: while Ta Prohm was once the setting of the Angelina Jolie film, Preah Khan offers more of a “Tomb Raider” experience for those willing to explore.  

One nice feature of Angkor Wat is that the eight galleries of carvings (where you will spend much of your time) is within a covered, open-air enclosure, making this one of the few times that you will be protected from the sun.

Furthermore, as the only west-facing temple, Angkor Wat is best to visit (and photograph) in the late afternoon, arriving around 2:30 - 3pm, enjoying the uppermost platform around 5:00pm, and walking out as the guards begin corralling visitors out of the complex at 5:30pm.

Exiting the temple with the setting sun shining on the Vishnu image discovered beneath the temple’s central sanctuary is a magical sight to behold and a fitting end of your exploration of the temple built by King Suryavarman, whose name translates to “protected by the sun”.

For sunset, the options are officially limited to Bakheng and Pre Rup. If you visited Bakheng for sunrise, you may wish to skip it as the temple can be overcrowded at last light.

Pre Rup, a pyramid temple that looks beautiful in the sunlight is the popular default. Consider finding a quiet place away from the crowds, such as atop the city wall beside the West or South gate of Angkor Thom. 

With a treasure trove of photos and memories, return to town for the evening.

TONLE SAP - FULL DAY TOUR

See what life is like on Southeast Asia’s largest lake. Take a boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake, cruising past mangrove forests and quiet waterways. Have lunch in a local house and learn about the traditional lifestyles of the people who call Tonle Sap their home.    

Take a break from temple touring to experience authentic rural lifestyles.

Drive to the outskirts of Siem Reap, past expansive rice fields and through local villages where rice and fish can frequently be spotted drying alongside the road. Next, board a private wooden vessel for a boat trip along a canal that leads to the Tonle Sap Lake. 

Cruise along the canal with houses on either side: depending on the time of the  visit, the houses will either have immediate access to the water or stand perched on stilts high above the ground, a phenomena caused by the annual rising and receding waters of the Tonle Sap Lake, Southeast Asia’s largest lake.

Pass by the boats and nets used by local fishermen, some of whom will be fishing in the waters through which the boat passes. Nearing the lake, see floating houses that move location with the annual ebb and flow of the lake’s waters. 

Along the way, gain a better understanding of the local lifestyle with lunch in a family house. This is a unique opportunity to gain first-hand experience of the way of life of the local people- sitting inside a stilted house while watching the boats pass outside. 

With a full belly and a camera-full of remarkable images, return to Siem Reap in the afternoon.

FLY TO HANOI

Today you will be collected from your hotel in Siem Reap and transferred to the airport by private car for your onward flight.

Fly from Siem Reap to Hanoi with Vietnam Airlines.

On arrival in Hanoi you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

HANOI - FULL DAY TOUR

You will be collected from your hotel by your guide for this full day excursion in Hanoi.

Although it is the modern-day capital of Vietnam, Hanoi still retains the mystery and charm of past centuries, with its narrow lanes and traditional shop houses.

Begin with an exploration of the Museum of Ethnology (closed on Mondays - an alternative visit to the Vietnamese Women's Museum will be made instead).

This museum showcases art, traditional clothing and reconstructions of traditional longhouses from 54 different ethnic groups.

Afterwards head to the Temple of Literature with its walled courtyards and graceful gateways.

Founded in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius, this was also the site of Vietnam's first university.

Continue to visit Ho Chi Minh Memorial Complex where the Vietnamese people honour the country's 'Great Father'.

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (viewed from the outside only) which contains the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh; and Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House where Ho Chi Minh lived from 1958 until his final days in 1969.

Preserved in the same condition as during his life, it may be viewed through the windows.

Also visit the miniature 11th century One Pillar Pagoda which was rebuilt after being destroyed by the French in 1954.

In the late afternoon, visit Hoan Kiem Lake which contains an islet with the tiny Tortoise Pagoda and enjoy a traditional Vietnamese coffee here.

Round off the day by taking the green electric buggy to Hanoi's Old Quarter.

HALONG BAY - OVERNIGHT CRUISE

You will be collected from your hotel in Hanoi by your driver from Paradise Cruises at around 09:00 and transferred to the check-in centre on Tuan Chau Island, arriving around 11:30. Here you will have some time to freshen up after the drive from Hanoi.

At around 12:30, transfer to Paradise Luxury, where you will be checked-in and shown to the restaurant. Enjoy a welcome drink whilst being briefed about your cruise.

As the Paradise Luxury makes its way to Halong Bay, you will have time to enjoy lunch while admiring the stunning views - your first introduction to this majestic landscape.

After lunch, you will have time to enjoy the stunning landscape of Halong Bay. If the first stop isn’t for you, you can opt for an afternoon of pampering and indulgence at Le Parfum Spa (not included).

Your first excursion is a visit to Tung Sau Pearl Farm, an area of Halong Bay dedicated to cultivating pearls and practicing a handmade technique based on Vietnamese tradition and Japanese technology. This is also an ideal destination for kayaking. If this excursion doesn’t take your fancy, stay on board and treat yourself to a delicious afternoon tea.

At around 4 pm  reach Soi Sim Island where you can hike to the top for a panoramic view of the Bay. After your hike, go for a refreshing swim in Halong Bay’s emerald waters if you wish.

Paradise Luxury will anchor overnight at Coconut Tree Island. This is the perfect time to enjoy a cocktail or two as the sun sets over the karst landscape. Enjoy the Vietnamese cooking demonstration if you wish.

At 19:30, dress like kings and queens for the Royal Bao Dai dinner at the restaurant.

The rest of the evening is free for you to relax with a drink or two, go squid fishing, book in for a spa treatment at Le Parfum Spa or watch a movie in the restaurant.

HALONG BAY - HUE

Welcome your second day on board Paradise Sails with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the sun rises, followed by a light breakfast in the restaurant.

At 07:30  you can visit magnificent Sung Sot Cave, where you will be surprised by the breathtaking panoramic view across the Bay once you exit the cave.

This is the largest cave in Halong Bay, and the stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years have taken on fascinating shapes.

Back on board, you can opt for your breakfast to be served in the restaurant or your cabin.

Paradise Luxury will pass Thien Cung and Dau Go Caves and Fighting Cocks Islet before you settle your bill, check-out and return to Tuan Chau Island.

After disembarking from Paradise Sails, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Hue.

Fly from Hanoi to Hue with Vietnam Airlines.

On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel by private car.

HUE - FULL DAY TOUR

Today’s tour will begin at 8:30.

Kick off the Hue city day tour at the UNESCO-Heritage Imperial Citadel.

Roam the expansive grounds, hearing stories of the majestic buildings and the intriguing former emperors. Take a look at areas damaged by ancient and modern conflicts and learn of Hue’s role in Vietnam’s military history.

Continue by cyclo to discover the tranquil gardens and traditional buildings of the region, before arriving at Tran Dinh Son private museum with a collection of everyday items that past Kings have used. Learn how royal descendants are keeping the family’s traditions alive today.

The next stop is Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Hue’s iconic landmarks. Discover the many unique spiritual and architectural elements of Thien Mu while touring the compound with the guide. Listen to fascinating stories about the pagoda’s 400-year history and enjoy views over the nearby Perfume River before heading to a local restaurant for lunch.

This afternoon, leave the city centre and travel through Hue’s beautiful countryside. Visit the tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, a Nguyen Dynasty ruler well known for his opposition to any French involvement in Vietnam.

Explore his remarkable tomb, admiring the imposing architecture and gorgeous forest setting while learning more about this historic leader. Continue to Khai Dinh’s tomb for a tour of this equally remarkable complex. Admire the blend of traditional Vietnamese design with European touches, which makes it unique from the other tombs in Hue.

Continue the trip with a visit to An Dinh Palace, the private residence of Khai Dinh, Vietnam’s last emperor who ruled until 1955. It was built in 1917 with French architectural styles. After the war, the building was seriously damaged and it was recently restored as part of a German Government aid project. Get a chance to get an overview of life of a Royal family through the bedroom, entertainment rooms and library.

Before heading back to the hotel, take time to browse the stalls at Dong Ba Market. The market is teeming with colour and a great place to catch a glimpse of everyday life in modern Hue.

TRAVEL TO HOI AN

After breakfast you will be collected from your hotel and transferred to your hotel in Hoi An by private car, travelling over a scenic coastal pass.

Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure in Hoi An.

HOI AN - FULL DAY TOUR

Today’s tour will begin at 08:00.

Spend a day immersed in the rich history of Central Vietnam. Start with a morning day trip from Hoi An to My Son, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Depart from Hoi An by car, leaving the coast behind and heading through the countryside. Arrive at My Son, where dozens of ruins are scattered about the tranquil landscapes.

Built during the era of the Champa Kingdom from the 4th to 13th centuries, many of the brick structures are dedicated to Hindu gods or reflect Hindu mythology. Hear tales of the Champa Kingdom while exploring these atmospheric relics that have stood the test of time.

After this glimpse into Central Vietnam’s ancient history, return to Hoi An. Take a break at a popular restaurant to sample some of the town’s most famous dishes.

The afternoon is spent exploring Hoi An’s old town with a guided walking tour.

Despite the passing of 200 years and the ravages of weather and war, the centre of Hoi An remains much the same as it was in its heyday.

This walking tour is the best way to see the wooden-fronted houses that once belonged to the town’s prosperous merchants, the Japanese-covered Bridge and the wonderful market as well as the many silk, handicrafts, antique shops and galleries. Explore these sites and many quiet laneways on this insightful excursion.

The Hoi An day tour comes to a close with a transfer back to the hotel.

HOI AN - DAY AT LEISURE

Enjoy the day at leisure in Hoi An.

FLY TO SYDNEY

You will be collected from your hotel in Hoi An and transferred to the airport by private car for your onward flight.

Fly from Hoi An to Saigon with Vietnam Airlines.

Fly from Saigon to Sydney with Vietnam Airlines.

FLY TO AUCKLAND

Fly from Sydney to Auckland with Vietnam Airlines.