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Mekong Delta Adventure: Siem Reap to Hanoi 12-Day | The best Cambodia and Vietnam Tour by waterway

  • Start in Siem Reap and end in Hanoi
  • Angkor Wat and other stunning temples
  • Mekong Delta cruise with floating markets
  • Cu Chi Tunnels tour in Ho Chi Minh City
  • Overnight Halong Bay cruise with kayaking
  • Discover Hanoi’s rich history and culture
  • Itinerary

    Start in Siem Reap and end in Hanoi! With the River Cruise tour Mekong Delta Adventure: Siem Reap to Hanoi 12-Day, you have a 12 days tour package taking you through Siem Reap, Cambodia and 13 other destinations in Asia. Mekong Delta Adventure: Siem Reap to Hanoi 12-Day includes accommodation in a hotel as well as flights, an expert guide, meals, transport and more.

    Introduction

    Discover the best of Southeast Asia as you embark on a breathtaking journey through the Mekong Delta. Starting in Siem Reap and ending in Hanoi, this package takes you on an epic adventure across two vibrant countries, Cambodia and Vietnam. Get ready to explore ancient temples, bustling cities, floating markets, and stunning landscapes, all while cruising on the iconic Mekong River.

     

    1. Experience the magic of Angkor Wat and other stunning temples in Siem Reap, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    2. Explore Phnom Penh's rich history and culture, including the iconic Royal Palace and the sobering Killing Fields.
    3. Cruise through the Mekong Delta, a network of waterways and floating markets in Chau Doc and Can Tho.
    4. Discover Ho Chi Minh City's vibrant streets, including a tour of the famous Cu Chi Tunnels.
    5. Soak up the beauty of Halong Bay on an overnight cruise, surrounded by thousands of limestone islands and islets.
    6. Conclude your journey in Hanoi, a city with a rich history and culture, and home to many famous landmarks such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature.
    1

    Day 1: Arrival in Siem Reap

    Today, you will be arriving in Siem Reap, a charming city located in the northwestern region of Cambodia. You will be picked up from the airport and transferred to your hotel in Siem Reap for check-in. Once you have settled into your accommodation, you will have the rest of the day free at leisure to explore the city and its surroundings. You may choose to visit the famous Angkor Wat temple complex, take a stroll through the bustling night market, or simply relax and enjoy the local cuisine. Overnight in Siem Reap.

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    Accommodation Options:

    La Niche D’angkor Hotel - 3-star or similar

    Royal Angkor Resort - 4-star or similar

    Angkor Village Hotel - 5-star or similar

    2

    Day 2: Angkor Highlights (B)

    After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we will drive to Angkor Thom, which was a magnificent architectural masterpiece built by King Jayavarman VII. The king built this fortress in the heart of his empire as a response to the occupation of Angkor by the Chams from 1177 to 1181.

    Our first stop will be the Bayon Temple, which is located at the exact center of Angkor Thom. This temple is an eccentric expression of the creative genius and inflated ego of Cambodia's most celebrated king. We will also have a photo stop at the Terrace of the Leper King, which is a unique stone terrace located in the Royal Square of Angkor Thom.

    Next, we will visit the Terrace of Elephants, which was originally used as a viewing gallery for the king to preside over parades, performances, and traditional sports. At the southern end of the terrace lies the Baphuon, one of the most beautiful temples at Angkor, dating from the reign of Uditayavarman I in the 11th century.

    We will also visit the picturesque Ta Prohm temple, which has nearly disappeared into the jungle and remains overgrown, creating an exotic and haunting scene. The magnificent roots of a tree, which are pushing between the huge stone blocks of the temple in a sort of embrace, evoke feelings that you may remember forever.

    Our final stop will be the mother of all temples, Angkor Wat. This temple is believed to be the world's largest religious building and is the perfect fusion of symbolism and symmetry. It is a source of pride and strength to all Khmers.

    After a long day of exploring, we will return to the hotel for an overnight stay in Siem Reap.

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    Accommodation Options:

    La Niche D’angkor Hotel - 3-star or similar

    Royal Angkor Resort - 4-star or similar

    Angkor Village Hotel - 5-star or similar

    3

    Day 3: Siem Reap to Phnom Penh (B)

    We will have the opportunity to explore the beautiful Tonle Sap Lake with a boat ride. This lake is the largest permanent freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and connects to the Tonle Sap River, eventually joining the Mekong River in Phnom Penh. During the boat ride, we will witness the fascinating lifestyle of local fishermen in a "floating village" with unique features such as floating schools and even a floating police station. This village is like a big community floating on the lake, moving from one location to another depending on the water levels and current.

    After the boat ride, we will transfer to the Siem Reap bus station and board a shuttle bus to Phnom Penh. Once we arrive at the Siem Reap bus station, our driver (no guide) will be waiting to take us to the hotel for check-in. We will spend the night in Phnom Penh, ready to explore more of this vibrant city the following day.

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    Accommodation Options:

    Okay Boutique Hotel - 3-star or similar

    Anik Palace Hotel - 4-star or similar

    Palace Gate Hotel - 5-star or similar

    4

    Day 4: Phnom Penh’s Past and Present (B)

    After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, the tour will begin with a visit to the Royal Palace compound, which was built in 1866 by the predecessors of King Norodom. The palace boasts an impressive and colorful Khmer-style architecture and is the most prominent feature in Phnom Penh. Adjacent to the Royal Palace is the Silver Pagoda, also known as the Emerald Buddha temple, which displays numerous Buddha statues decorated with diamonds, emeralds, gold and silver.

    Next, you will proceed to the National Museum, a distinctive red building with beautiful Khmer architecture that has been standing since 1917. It contains over 5,000 art objects made of sandstone, bronze, silver, copper, wood and other materials. The tour continues with a visit to the Independence Monument, which was constructed in 1954 to commemorate Cambodia's independence from French colonial rule.

    At noon, you will visit Phsar Thmey, also known as the Central Market. This large market, constructed in 1937, features a dome-shaped building with four branching arms leading to vast hallways filled with countless stalls selling a wide range of products, including gold and silver, antique coins, money exchange, books, flowers, fabrics, shoes, souvenirs, seafood, and more.

    Next, you will head to Wat Phnom, also known as the Mountain Pagoda, a Buddhist temple located on a hill that symbolizes the name of Phnom Penh. According to legend, the first pagoda on this site was erected in 1372 to house four Buddha statues discovered by Lady Penh in the waters of the Mekong River. Wat Phnom is a popular place for locals to come and play, pray for good luck, and admire the stunning sunset.

    In the late afternoon, you will enjoy a sunset cruise on the Mekong River to view the Royal Palace from the water as it bursts into four branches. Overnight in Phnom Penh.

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    Accommodation Options:

    Okay Boutique Hotel - 3-star or similar

    Anik Palace Hotel - 4-star or similar

    Palace Gate Hotel - 5-star or similar

    5

    Day 5: Phnom Penh - Chau Doc (B)

    You will be picked up by our guide and driver at the pier in Phnom Penh, and then transferred to Chau Doc in Vietnam. Upon arrival, we will visit the Ba Chua Xu Temple, the most important destination for all tours in Chau Doc. The temple is dedicated to a goddess who is believed to have the power to bring good fortune and prosperity to her devotees. After that, we will visit the Forbidden Mountain, which is famous for its panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

    After the sightseeing tour, we will check in at our hotel in Chau Doc, and you will have free time at your leisure. You can explore the town on your own, or simply relax at the hotel. Overnight in Chau Doc.

    The land port on the Cambodian side is Kaam Samonor Border, and on the Vietnamese side, it is Song Tien Border.

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    Accommodation Options:

    Chau Pho Hotel - 3-star or similar

    Victoria Chau Doc Hotel - 4-star or similar

    Victoria Chau Doc Hotel - 4-star (local best)

    6

    Day 6: Chau Doc - Can Tho (B)

    After breakfast, we will visit Tra Su, a wild bird sanctuary located in the heart of the Mekong Delta. We will cruise on small boats to discover the splendid canals deep into the forest, and watch storks, cranes, and other tropical birds in their natural habitat.

    In the afternoon, we will drive to Can Tho, the largest city in the Mekong Delta. Upon arrival, we will check in at our hotel, and you will have free time to explore the city on your own. Overnight in Can Tho.

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    Accommodation Options:

    Holiday 2 Hotel - 3-star or similar

    TTC Hotel - Can Tho - 4-star or similar

    Sheraton Can Tho - 5-star or similar

    7

    Day 7: Can Tho - Ho Chi Minh City (B)

    After breakfast, we will take a boat trip to witness the Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest floating market in the Mekong Delta. Here, you will see local farmers trading their produce on the water, as they have done for centuries. You can also try some of the local specialties such as noodle soup, coffee, and fresh fruits.

    After the market visit, we will drive to a fruit orchard, where you can sample the tropical fruits grown in this region, and try some local tea. We will then drive to Ho Chi Minh City. Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City around 5:00 pm. Check in the hotel. Free at leisure and stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

    After breakfast, we will take a boat trip to witness the Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest floating market in the Mekong Delta. After the market visit, we will drive to a fruit orchard, where you can sample the tropical fruits grown in this region, and try some local tea. We will then drive to Ho Chi Minh City. Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City around 5:00 pm. Check in the hotel. Free at leisure and stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

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    Accommodation Options:

    Elios Hotel Saigon - 3-star or similar

    Ramada Encore Saigon Hotel - 4-star or similar

    Majestic Saigon Hotel - 5-star or similar

    8

    Day 8: Ho Chi Minh City Tour - Cu Chi Tunnels (B, L)

    After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, embark on a fascinating journey through the highlights of Ho Chi Minh City. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, a stunning example of neo-Romanesque architecture built by the French in the 19th century. Next, stop at the historic Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel and featuring a beautiful interior of intricate maps, intricate designs, and arched windows. Then, explore the Reunification Palace, the former presidential palace of South Vietnam and a symbol of the country's tumultuous past.

    After a break for lunch at a local restaurant, the afternoon takes you to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, a popular destination for both Vietnamese and foreign tourists. The tunnels, which span over 200km, played a critical role during the Vietnam War and were functioning underground cities that included trap doors, living areas, storage facilities, weapon factories, field hospitals, command centers, and kitchens. You will learn about the construction of the tunnels and spend the next few hours exploring the tunnels and war remnants, gaining insights into the harsh conditions and ingenious methods used to maintain life in the tunnels. You'll even have a chance to sample some of the simple cuisine that local fighters survived on and venture into the tunnels to experience the complex firsthand.

    After the tour, return to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City for a comfortable overnight stay. The distance between Saigon and Cu Chi Tunnel is approximately 75 km, which takes about 1.5 hours to drive.

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    Accommodation Options:

    Elios Hotel Saigon - 3-star or similar

    Ramada Encore Saigon Hotel - 4-star or similar

    Majestic Saigon Hotel - 5-star or similar

    9

    Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City/Flight to Hanoi with full day City Tour (B, L)

    After having breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to the airport for your early flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival, our friendly guide will pick you up and take you on a tour of Hanoi city. The first stop will be at Tran Quoc Pagoda, located on Golden Fish Island in West Lake. This pagoda is the oldest in Hanoi and was built in the 6th century. Admire the stunning architecture and learn about the history and culture of this important landmark.

    Next, visit the Ho Chi Minh complex, where you will have the chance to see the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh. Take a leisurely walk around the garden to see the two houses where he lived and worked from 1954 to 1969. Then, visit the One Pillar Pagoda, which worships the Goddess of Mercy and is considered the most unique pagoda in the world.

    Please note that Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum is closed on Mondays and Fridays. If your tour falls on either of these days, an alternative itinerary will be arranged.

    Afterwards, head to the Vietnam Ethnology Museum to learn about the culture of the 54 ethnic groups living in Vietnam. However, if your tour falls on a Monday, the museum will be closed, and you will visit the Women’s Museum instead.

    Enjoy a delicious lunch at our restaurant, where you will have the opportunity to taste some of the best Vietnamese cuisine.

    After lunch, continue your tour with a visit to the Temple of Literature, the first university of Vietnam established in the 11th century. This is a great place to learn about the education system of Vietnam in ancient times.

    The city tour will conclude with a visit to the Hoa Lo Prison, originally used by the French colonists in Indochina for political prisoners and later by North Vietnam for U.S. prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. During this later period, it was known to American POWs as the "Hanoi Hilton."

    After an exciting day of exploring Hanoi City, you will be transferred back to the hotel for check in. Free at leisure and stay overnight in Hanoi.

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    Accommodation Options:

    TK-123 Hanoi - 3-star or similar

    Lion Boutique Hanoi Hotel - 4-star or similar

    Hotel du Parc Hanoi - 5-star or similar

    10

    Day 10: Halong Bay with overnight on a cruise (B, L, D)

    After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, our private mini-van/bus will pick you up between 8:30 am to 9:00 am to begin your journey to Halong City. During the 3.5-hour drive, you will have the opportunity to view the simple countryside and rice paddy life along the way. Once you arrive at the port, you will board your private boat - an authentic Chinese Junk - and begin your amazing cruise through the stunning Halong Bay, a World Heritage Site. Lunch will be served on board and will consist of a selection of the freshest seafood.

    During the cruise, we will visit "the Amazing cave" and then take a swim in the tranquil emerald waters of Halong Bay. We will then cruise further into a quiet area where we will anchor and spend the night. You will enjoy dinner and relax as the sun sets over the bay. Afterward, you are free to swim in the phosphorescent water, retire to your cabin, or even fall asleep under the stars on the top deck, surrounded by the magic of Halong. You will spend the night on the boat, taking in the stunning surroundings of the bay.

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    Accommodation Options:

    MILA Cruises - 3-star or similar

    Pelican Cruises - 4-star or similar

    Paradise Sails Cruises - 5-star or similar

    11

    Day 11: Halong Bay Cruise - Hanoi (B, L)

    Wake up early in the morning to witness a beautiful sunrise and breathe in the fresh ocean air. Enjoy breakfast served on the boat as we leisurely cruise through thousands of stunning and seemingly never-ending islands. This is an amazing opportunity to capture some breathtaking photographs of the scenery. We will also make a stop to visit a floating fishing village and hear legendary stories of the fishermen's daily life.

    Lunch will be served on the boat as we cruise back to the Halong City pier. From there, we will return to Hanoi. You will arrive in Hanoi around 3:30 pm to 4:00 pm. Check in at your hotel and take advantage of some free time to explore the fascinating Old Quarter of Hanoi on your own. Take the opportunity to indulge in some delicious local street food or browse the shops for souvenirs. You will spend the night in Hanoi.

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    Accommodation Options:

    TK-123 Hanoi - 3-star or similar

    Lion Boutique Hanoi Hotel - 4-star or similar

    Hotel du Parc Hanoi - 5-star or similar

    12

    Day 12: Departure from Hanoi (B)

    Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before departing for the airport for your international flight back home or to your next destination. We hope that you have had an incredible time exploring Vietnam with Legend Travel Group and have made unforgettable memories.

    Thank you for choosing us as your travel companion and we look forward to embarking on new adventures with you in the future. Please note that airport transfer is included in your itinerary and our team will ensure that your departure from Hanoi is as smooth and hassle-free as possible.

    Location

    What's Included

    Accommodation

    Accommodations based on single/twin/double/triple sharing with daily buffet breakfast. All taxes and service charges included.

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    Basic 3-star Hotel Accommodation option:

    Siem Reap: La Niche D’angkor Hotel or similar

    Phnom Penh: Okay Boutique Hotel or similar

    Chau Doc: Chau Pho Hotel or similar

    Can Tho: Holiday 2 Hotel or similar

    Saigon: Elios Saigon Hotel or similar

    Hanoi: TK-123 Hanoi Hotel or similar

    Halong Bay: MILA Cruises or similar

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    Upgrade to 4-star Hotel Accommodation option:

    Siem Reap: Royal Angkor Resort or similar

    Phnom Penh: Anik Palace Hotel or similar

    Chau Doc: Victoria Chau Doc Hotel or similar

    Can Tho: TTC Hotel - Can Tho or similar

    Saigon: Ramada Encore Saigon Hotel or similar

    Hanoi: Lion Boutique Hanoi Hotel or similar

    Halong Bay: Pelican Cruises or similar

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    Upgrade to 5-star Hotel Accommodation option:

    Siem Reap: Angkor Village Hotel or similar

    Phnom Penh: Palace Gate Hotel or similar

    Chau Doc: Victoria Chau Doc Hotel - 4-star (local best)

    Can Tho: Sheraton Can Tho or similar

    Saigon: Majestic Saigon Hotel or similar

    Hanoi: Hotel du Parc Hanoi or similar

    Halong Bay: Paradise Sails or similar

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    "Please be aware that all accommodations are subject to change until 4-6 weeks before the departure date. The final accommodation details will be provided to you with your finalized travel documents.

    "Subject to change" means that we may use an alternative hotel if the hotel listed in the tour package is fully booked or not available during your stay period. The alternative hotel must be of the same quality as the indicated hotel or better than the indicated hotel in the package."

    Flights

    Included:

    Internal flight ticket: Ho Chi Minh City - Hanoi (Economy class) by Vietnam Airlines or similar including fuel charge and airport taxes.

    Checked baggage allowance: 20kg + Handing Luggage: 7kg

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    Guide

    Professional tour guides with excellent English skills in every destination.

    Meals

    Meals mentioned in the program include Vietnamese cuisine, Cambodian cuisine, Asian cuisine, and Western cuisine. The meals are categorized as B (breakfast), L (lunch), or D (dinner). The program includes 11 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 1 dinner.

    Other meals are not included to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat.

    Additional Services

    Boat trips in Halong Bay, and in the Mekong Delta

    Express Boat ticket from Phnom Penh to Chau Doc

    All transports and transfers

    All entrance and sightseeing fees

    Kayaking in Halong Bay if complimentary

    All taxes and services charge. 

    Transport

    Air-conditioned vehicle will be provided for transportation during the tour. This includes pick-up and drop-off at airports, hotels, and all other tour destinations.

    For any flights included in the itinerary, plane transportation will be arranged with reputable airlines to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.

    For boat trips, comfortable and secure vessels will be used to take you to your destinations. Our boats are equipped with life jackets and other necessary safety equipment, and operated by experienced and licensed captains.

    We take your safety and comfort seriously and strive to provide the best transportation options for your travel needs.

    Insurance

    Travel Insurance is not covered by Legend Travel Group.

    Additional Services

    International airfares and airport taxes in Cambodia/Vietnam

    Pre, post tour accommodation

    Beverages and other meals do not indicate in the program

    Visa to Vietnam and Cambodia if applicable

    Early check-in and late check-out at all hotels

    Kayak, Massage onboard

    Travel insurance

    Personal expenses (laundry, telephone, shopping...)

    Tipping/ Gratuities

    Single supplement

    Any additional expenses caused by reasons beyond our control such as natural calamities (typhoon, floods), flight delays, rescheduling or cancellations, any accidents, medical evacuations, riots, strikes etc

    Cancellation policy

    60 days or more prior to departure 5% of the cost of the tour is forfeited
    30-59 days prior departure: 10% of the cost of the tour is forfeited
    15-29 days prior to departure: 20% of the cost of the tour is forfeited
    7-14 days prior to departure: 50% of the cost of the tour is forfeited
    Within 6 days prior to departure: 90 % of the cost of the tour is forfeited

    Children policy

    Child under 5 years old: 50% of the Adult's cost, sharing the existing bed with parents
    Child from 5-11 years old: 75% of the Adult's cost, provided with a private bed (extra bed) within the same room as parents
    Child from 12 years old and up: 100% of the Adult's cost, provided with a private bed (extra bed) within the same room as parents
    Triple room: 3 persons sharing one room, consisting of 1 double bed and 1 single bed.

    What to bring
    • Original passport
    • Sunscreen
    • Wide-brimmed hat
    • Swimsuit
    • Insect repellent
    • Sunglasses (especially from April to October)
    • Light jacket (from November to March)
    • Camera with sufficient battery and memory card capacity

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