Your Vietnam & Indochina DMC
Tour Overview
It's never been simpler to go to Southeast Asia! Take a fantastic 12-day trip with Vietnam Travels to discover the most well-known locations in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. On this tour, you will see the busy city of Bangkok, the breathtaking Halong Bay, the imposing Angkor Wat, and the picturesque town of Chiang Mai.
Each country's distinctive food, gorgeous natural settings, and rich local culture will all be available for you to explore. Take advantage of the chance to see the stunning elephant sanctuary, summit Doi Inthanon, Thailand's roof, and relax on gorgeous beaches. Get started on your tour through Southeast Asia now!
Tour Highlights
- Explore Vietnam's charming capital with a city tour and a delicious lunch.
- Uncover the mesmerizing karst mountains and emerald rice paddies of Ninh Binh.
- Spend an unforgettable night cruising the limestone pillars of Halong Bay.
- Explore the grandeur of Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Discover the hidden gems of Angkor's outlying temples on a dedicated tour.
- Feel the bustling energy and iconic sights of Bangkok on a private city tour.
- Explore Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand's cultural center.
- Care for rescued elephants at a renowned Elephant Jungle Sanctuary.
- Ascend the highest peak in Thailand, Doi Inthanon, for breathtaking views.
- Enjoy a leisurely departure day in Chiang Mai before your onward journey.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at the airport in Hanoi, you will be met by our local driver, who will then take you to your hotel.
Please note: the standard check-in time is 14:00. Early check-in depends on hotel availability.
1:30 PM: Our bus and tour guide will pick you up at your hotel to begin the day's group tour. Our first stop is Tran Quoc Pagoda, on West Lake's Golden Fish Island. This pagoda, built in the 6th century, is considered Hanoi's oldest.
2:30 PM: We'll continue to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university. Established in 1070, the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu Quoc Tu Giam) is a must-see for northern Vietnam tourists.
3:30 PM: Next, we head to Hoa Lo Prison. Built by the French from 1886 to 1901 during Vietnam's time as part of French Indochina, the prison was originally called Maison Centrale by the French. Nicknamed "Hanoi Hilton" by American POWs during the Vietnam War, Hoa Lo Prison is now a war museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the struggle of the Vietnamese people against French rule.
4:30 PM: Our bus will return you to your hotel, concluding today's Hanoi group tour.
Meals throughout the day are at your leisure. You will be spending the night in Hanoi.
7:00 AM: Our tour guide will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi. We'll then embark on a scenic journey to Ninh Binh Province, located approximately 120 kilometers away.
9:00 AM: Enjoy a relaxing 20-minute break to freshen up.
10:30 AM: Our first stop is Hoa Lu, the captivating ancient capital of Vietnam. Immerse yourself in history and discover the reasons behind the capital's relocation to Hanoi today. Be awestruck by the remarkable architecture of the 17th-century temples dedicated to King Dinh and King Le, the first two emperors of ancient Vietnam. Soak up the mystical ambiance of this bygone era.
11:30 AM: Hop on a bicycle for a leisurely 45-minute ride through a charming village, experiencing the way of life of the local residents.
12:30 PM: Savor a delicious buffet lunch at a restaurant featuring a variety of local specialties, including goat meat and fried rice. Vegetarian options are always available.
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM: Embark on a 1.5-hour journey on a traditional bamboo boat through the breathtaking Tam Coc. Marvel at the idyllic scenery adorned with lush rice paddies, a winding river, majestic caves, and a dramatic interplay of clouds and sky. This enchanting landscape has earned Tam Coc the nickname "Halong Bay on land."
4:00 PM: Ascend nearly 500 steps to reach the summit of Lying Dragon Mountain via Mua Cave (Dancing Cave). Enjoy stunning panoramic views of Tam Coc.
5:30 PM: Board the bus for a comfortable ride back to Hanoi.
7:30 PM: Arrive back in Hanoi and get dropped off at your hotel, marking the end of this unforgettable trip.
7:30 - 8:30 AM: If you booked transportation with us, our friendly guide will meet you at your Old Quarter hotel. Together, you'll board a comfortable bus or limousine.
After picking up everyone, we'll head straight for Halong Bay. Relax and take in the peaceful countryside views as we travel through farmlands and the Red River Delta.
11:30 AM: We'll arrive at the check-in lounge. Here, you can freshen up after the drive from Hanoi and relax while waiting to board.
12:15 PM: You'll be escorted to your cruise ship for check-in. The cruise manager will welcome you with drinks and provide an itinerary and safety briefing.
1:00 PM: Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch as the boat cruises towards the southeast of Halong Bay. Take in the amazing views as we pass by the iconic Fighting Roosters and Finger Islets formations.
2:30 PM - 4:00 PM: Soak up the stunning views of Ha Long Bay's dramatic limestone islets as we cruise through the calm emerald waters toward Luon Cave. Explore the cave by kayak or on a traditional bamboo boat rowed by the locals.
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Choose to visit Titov Island or Trinh Nu Cave.
5:30 PM – 7:00 PM: Return aboard and enjoy a sunset party with HAPPY HOUR (from 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM) – buy 2 get 1 free drink at the bar or sundeck.
6:00 PM: Join our cooking demonstration, where our chef will show you how to make some of our specialties.
7:15 PM: Savor a delicious dinner under a blanket of stars.
8:30 PM: Relax with karaoke, enjoy drinks at the bar, or try your hand at squid fishing with our complimentary equipment available at reception.
10:00 PM: Retire to your clean, air-conditioned room with a private washroom for a comfortable night's sleep onboard.
06:00: Start your day with a Tai Chi class on the sundeck with stunning sunrise views over Halong Bay. Capture this unforgettable moment with photos, or relax in bed- the choice is yours!
07:00 - 07:30: Enjoy a light breakfast at the restaurant.
07:30 – 08:30: Explore the magnificent Sung Sot Cave, one of the biggest in Ha Long Bay, filled with beautiful stalactites. Prepare to be amazed by the panoramic bay views upon exiting the cave and the fascinating shapes of millions of-year-old stalactites and stalagmites.
08:30 – 09:30: Return to the boat, settle your bill, check out, and head back to Tuan Chau Island.
09:45 – 10:45: Savor a delicious brunch on board as the boat cruises back to the harbor.
10:45 – 11:00: Depart from Tuan Chau Marina and head back to Hanoi.
6:30 AM: Our driver will transfer you to Hanoi International Airport to take a flight to Siem Reap. Your flight is VN837, 15:25 – 17:10. (Flight on your arrangement.)
Upon arrival, be picked up and transferred by the driver to the hotel for check-in.
Please note: the standard check-in time is 14:00. Early check-in may be possible, but it's not guaranteed.
Overnight at hotel in Siem Reap.
Embark on a journey through Angkor's wonders with new friends! First up is the grand Angkor Thom complex. Here, marvel at the captivating Bayon temple and the iconic Ta Prohm, known as Tomb Raider.
Afterward, savor delectable Cambodian cuisine at a local restaurant within the Angkor Complex.
Gear up for the grand finale: the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat and a breathtaking sunset at Phnom Bakheng's peak. This tour prioritizes quality over quantity, focusing on these magnificent temples with limited crowds at Phnom Bakheng (capped at 300 visitors).
After soaking in the sunset (around 6:30 PM), we'll head back to town.
Lunch & Dinner are your arrangements. Overnight at hotel in Siem Reap.
Explore the hidden gem of Phnom Kulen, a mountain rich in natural beauty and spiritual significance. Our adventure starts with a scenic off-road drive, followed by a climb up the mountain. Along the way, marvel at the lush greenery and the cascading Kulen Waterfall. Cool off with a swim, or simply relax and observe the locals at this sacred site.
Next, we head to the River of a Thousand Lingas, named for the intricate carvings that adorn the riverbed. Here, you can receive a blessing with holy water, a traditional Cambodian practice.
Our journey concludes with a hike to the mountain peak, where you'll find a stunning pagoda and its iconic reclining Buddha statue. After soaking in the panoramic views, we'll return to the Siem Reap at around 5:30 PM.
Bidding farewell to Cambodia today, we'll start with a glimpse into local life at Rulous Market, where villagers showcase their fresh produce. Alternatively, immerse yourself in Cambodian religion at a local pagoda. Our adventure continues with a boat tour through the captivating floating villages. Imagine houses standing tall on stilts, reaching heights of 8 to 10 meters! Schools, farms, and even hospitals - all on the water - reveal the remarkable resilience of this community. Witness their smiles as you take in this unique way of life from the comfort of your boat.
This unforgettable experience concludes with a transfer to the airport for your onward flight to Bangkok (flight not included).
Upon arrival in Bangkok, our staff will greet you and whisk you away on a long-tail boat tour. Glide along the majestic Chao Phraya River and delve into the bustling inner canals of Thonburi, offering a window into the vibrant local life. Take a break at designated stops to savor delicious snacks, pick up unique souvenirs, or use the restrooms. Our exploration winds down with visits to the stunning Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, and lastly, the awe-inspiring Wat Traimit, famed for its golden Buddha statue.
Our itinerary starts with a delicious breakfast at the hotel. We'll then head to the impressive Grand Palace complex, built in 1782. This vast site encompasses royal residences, throne halls, government buildings, and the famed Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Next door, Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, together with the Grand Palace, creates a truly breathtaking spectacle. While the crowds can be overwhelming (you might find yourself dodging photobombs!), it's an experience not to be missed.
Our afternoon continues with a visit to Wat Pho, or the "Temple of the Reclining Buddha." This highly-visited temple complex boasts a massive reclining Buddha statue and is conveniently located south of the Grand Palace.
After soaking up the sights, your English-speaking guide and local driver will whisk you to the Bangkok airport for your flight to your next exciting destination: Chiang Mai! Upon arrival, you'll check into your hotel and have some time to unwind.
Welcome! Get ready for an unforgettable experience! We're thrilled to have you join us today at the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary.
8:00 - 8:30 AM: Your English-speaking guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel. We'll then embark on a scenic 1.5-hour drive south of Chiang Mai, passing rolling hills, lush forests, and charming local farms.
10:30 AM: Arrive at the sanctuary! Meet your guide and embark on a 10-15 minute jungle walk to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary. Change into traditional Karen clothing and get prepped for your elephant adventure. Your guide will share fascinating facts about elephant anatomy, history, and behavior.
11:00 AM: It's time to meet the gentle giants! Interact with the elephants in their natural environment and learn about their unique behaviors while feeding and playing with them. Capture some photos with these amazing creatures!
12:00 PM: Refuel with a delicious lunch spread featuring traditional Thai dishes and refreshing fruits.
1:00 PM: Get hands-on and learn how to make herbal medicine balls for the elephants. After feeding them, accompany them on a walk to the river for a refreshing bath. Brush and pamper these gentle giants.
2:00 PM: Join the elephants for a relaxing mud spa - a truly therapeutic experience! Take a dip in the cool river and snap some more photos with your newfound friends.
3:00 PM: Time to say goodbye! Change out of your Karen clothes and bid farewell to the elephants.
3:30 PM: Your adventure concludes. Depart from the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Chiang Mai.
5:00 PM – 5:30 PM: Arrive at your hotel or chosen accommodation in Chiang Mai and settle in for a relaxing overnight stay.
Tour Included: Hotel Transfer by air-conditioned minivan, fluent English-/Thai-speaking guides, food for the elephants, Snacks, tea, coffee, drinking water, lunch, and a photographer (customers can download photos of their experience from Facebook).
What to bring: Hat, Bathing Suit, Sunscreen, Insect Repellent, Towel, Walking Shoes, Change of Clothes, Camera (Optional), Copy of Passport Photo Page (or Passport Number)
Our day kicks off with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before we journey to Doi Inthanon National Park, the "Roof of Thailand." After a scenic 2-hour drive, we'll embark on a 2-3-hour trek through the lush jungle, following a narrow mountain trail that leads to a breathtaking hidden waterfall.
Along the way, we'll pass by scenic farmlands showcasing coffee plantations, flower farms, and picturesque rice terraces. Our adventure continues with a visit to the Pagagayaw Karen Hill tribe village, where you can experience their culture and savor a cup of locally grown coffee.
Next, we head to Vachiratharn Waterfall, a thundering cascade plunging 70 meters. Take in the cool spray and refreshing air before our descent back down.
The afternoon concludes with a visit to the architectural marvels of Napamaytanidol Chedi and Phra Mahatat Napaphon Bhumisiri, built in honor of King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit's 60th birthdays.
Finally, we'll transfer back to Chiang Mai for a relaxing overnight stay at your hotel.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast served at the hotel.
Enjoy some free time before your driver takes you directly to Chiang Mai International Airport for your departing flight. (This transfer does not include a guide.)
We sincerely thank you for choosing our services. We hope you had a wonderful cultural holiday, and we look forward to welcoming you back in the future!
End of our 12-day trip to explore Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand.
What's included
Trip Notes
Time travel: Possible to travel all year around.
Rooms are available from 14.00 on arrival day until 12.00 on departure day, room supplement charge will be added for request of early/late check in/out.
Airfares (if any) may change without notice prior to e-ticket issuance.
Price for infants and children will be quoted as follow:
- Children under 2 years old: Free of charge (Maximum 1 child under 2 years old travels with 2 adults; from the second child, 50% of the regular fare will be applied)
- Children from 2 to 5 years old: 50% of the regular fare will be applied
- Children from 5 to 11 years old: 75% of the regular fare will be applied
- Children from 12 years: 100% of the regular fare will be applied
During Peak Season and special occasions, surcharges may be added to the price:
- Christmas and New Year’s Eve: Compulsory meals would be added during these times of the years, depends on hotels or resorts you will stay overnight.
- Vietnam Lunar New Year: 24 January – 27 January: Extra fee will be applied during holiday.
- Cambodia & Thailand New Year: 12 April – 18 April: Extra fee will be applied during holiday.
Visa requirements:
For Vietnam: You must have a valid passport and a visa (or pre-approval letter for a visa on arrival) to enter Vietnam. Our consultant will be happy to advise you on visa requirements.
Your passport must be valid for six months beyond your planned stay, and you must have at least one blank page for each visa stamp.
We can customize this tour just for you
We'll get back to you within 6 - 12 business hours
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