RV Mekong Pandaw Cruise 12-Day Indochina Discovery: Saigon - Siem Reap
Destination: Saigon, Cu Chi Tunnels, Vam Co River, Cho Gao, Ben Tre, Chau Doc, Phnom Penh, Tonle River, Kampong Tralach, Oudong, Pak Russei, Peam Chi Korng, Steung Trang, Siem Reap, Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, Siem Reap
Departure date of itinerary: Contact us for details
Itinerary of RV Mekong Pandaw Cruise 12-Day Indochina Discovery: Saigon - Siem Reap
Upon your arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, you will be greeted by our professional guide and transferred to your hotel in the city center. You can spend your first evening at leisure.
We highly recommend a stroll down Nguyen Hue Walking Street, where you will find yourself immersed in the city's modern pulse, surrounded by street performers and the local families who bring this vibrant boulevard to life.
Your morning begins with a drive into the countryside to explore the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels, an incredible 250km underground labyrinth. You’ll crawl through history as you discover the hidden world built by the Viet Cong.
After a local lunch, you return to the city to admire Saigon’s architectural gems: the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Old Post Office. You will finish your day exploring the vibrant stalls of Ben Thanh Market.
After breakfast, you’ll trade the city streets for the serene decks of the RV Mekong Pandaw.
As you board and enjoy a welcome lunch, you’ll watch the urban skyline fade into lush greenery. You will meet your dedicated crew and enjoy cultural entertainment on deck as you spend your first night at anchor on the tranquil Vam Co River.
Note: Please ensure you have your original passport ready for the onboard team to process cruise registration.
You’ll wake up to the scenic transit of the Cho Gao Canal, a historic French-built waterway from 1876. Once in Ben Tre, you’ll hop into a traditional sampan to glide through hidden mangrove forests and bamboo groves.
You will meet local families in their fruit orchards, see the craft of artisanal coconut production, and witness the rich handicraft culture that defines the Mekong Delta.
Note: The Cho Gao Canal is a busy commercial artery; it offers a fascinating, up-close look at the massive transport barges that serve the region's economy.
Your adventure takes you to Sam Mountain, where you’ll climb the steps of the Hang Pagoda for a stunning panorama of the Mekong plains stretching toward Cambodia. You’ll visit floating fish farms by boat and witness a private, high-energy Lion Dance performance in a local village.
Note: During high-water periods (typically October-November), navigation to Chau Doc may be restricted by low bridges. In this case, the excursion is replaced with a visit to the charming village of Long Thuan.
Note: The ship will drop anchor at the border this afternoon. You can relax on deck while the crew assists with immigration formalities for entry into Cambodia.
You’ll explore Cambodia’s "Pearl of Asia" from the seat of a traditional cyclo, visiting the glittering Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum with its Angkorian treasures. In the afternoon, you will take a moving journey into the past at the Killing Fields and the S-21 Genocide Museum.
The evening is yours to enjoy the lively bars and night markets of the Phnom Penh riverfront.
You’ll sail the winding, narrow channels of the Tonle Sap River, heading toward the heart of rural Cambodia. You’ll experience a nostalgic ox-cart ride through emerald rice paddies and riverside hamlets to get a true sense of local life.
As night falls, you’ll join villagers around a fire pit for a magical evening of storytelling and traditional Khmer dancing.
Today, you’ll visit the ancient royal capital of Oudong and find a moment of peace at the Vipassana Dhura Meditation Centre. You will then stroll through the remote village of Pak Russei, where you’ll meet local silk weavers and noodle makers.
Before reboarding, you’ll be treated to a powerful, private demonstration of Bokator, a traditional Khmer martial art.
You can start your morning with Tai Chi on deck as the sun rises over the Mekong. You’ll visit the pottery-making hub of Peam Chi Korng by tuk-tuk and explore a bustling local market to test your Khmer language skills.
Your final night on board concludes with a grand farewell dinner, celebrating the friendships and memories of your RV Mekong Pandaw experience.
After a scenic drive through the Cambodian countryside, you’ll arrive in Siem Reap. Your afternoon is dedicated to the legendary Angkor Wat, a massive three-tiered pyramid crowned by five beehive towers.
You’ll marvel at the intricate carvings, finishing your first day in the temple city with a romantic sunset view from the heights of Bakheng Hill.
You’ll spend your final full day lost in the wonders of the Angkor Empire. You’ll explore the giant stone faces of Bayon and the walled city of Angkor Thom.
In the afternoon, you’ll discover the jungle-entwined ruins of Ta Prohm, made famous by the "Tomb Raider" movie. Your journey ends with a spectacular performance at the Phare Cambodian Circus, a world-class show that supports local youth.
You’ll enjoy one last breakfast at your hotel before a private transfer takes you to the airport. You’ll depart with a deep connection to the people and landscapes of the Mekong, carrying the spirit of Indochina home with you.
What's included
Luxury boutique stay aboard the RV Mekong Pandaw and premium hotel accommodation as specified in the itinerary (or similar).
Comprehensive meal plan including all main meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the cruise.
Local mineral water, jugged coffee, teas, and herbal tisanes available throughout the journey.
All sightseeing tours, entrance fees, and English-speaking guide services as outlined in the itinerary.
Smooth transfers between the designated meeting point and the ship in Siem Reap, plus all transport during shore excursions.
Gratuities for the ship’s crew are already included.
International airfare and airport taxes.
All visa costs and processing fees.
Port dues (if levied) and potential fuel surcharges (refer to terms and conditions).
All drinks except for local mineral water, coffee, and tea. (Note: Drink packages are available for purchase exclusively during the cruise section).
Gratuities for land-based service providers, including tour guides, local guides, bus drivers, boat operators, and cyclo drivers.
Laundry services, telephone calls, and any items of a personal nature.