UNESCO HERITAGE TRAILS CAMBODIA TO VIETNAM – 18 DAYS

Destination

Siem Reap - Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Halong Bay - Hue - Da Nang - Hoian - Ho Chi Minh

Arrival

Siem Reap

Finish

Ho Chi Minh

Days

18 Days 17 Nights

Type of trip

Private Trip

Ages

From

$3,290

AUD

$3,290

twin / double share

Overview
Gallery
Itinerary
Inclusions
Important Notes
Reviews
Related Tours

AUD

$3,290

twin / double share

Make a Booking

Customise Your Trip

18 day tour bring you visit Cambodia and Vietnam Unesco Heritage sites: Angkor complex in Siem Reap, Imperial Citadel of Thang Long in Hanoi, Halong bay and Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex in Ninh Binh, Complex of Hue Monuments, Hoi An Ancient Town, My Son Sanctuary.

The Angkor complex is truly one of the wonders of the world. It is a sprawling complex that spans five hundred acres and consists of around 72 temples.

Experience the Magic of Ninh Binh, explore the stunning landscapes of Trang An by boat, surrounded by towering limestone karsts and lush greenery.

Then we go visit incredible Halong bay, well known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped by rainforest, covers an area of over 1,500 sqkm.

Down to the central visit Hue to visit Complex of Hue Monuments. This vast complex served as the imperial capital of the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945, making it the political, cultural, and religious center of Vietnam during that period. The complex comprises a stunning array of palaces, temples, walls, gates, and tombs, all set within a picturesque landscape along the Perfume River.

Hoian is another famous Unesco World Heritage site. Step into a Fairytale Town! Explore the charming ancient streets of Hoian, adorned with colorful lanterns and historical architecture and My Son Sanctuary.

To end your memorable holiday, we land in Ho Chi Minh, visit historical sites: Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral,Old Sai Gon Post Office, Jade Emperor Pagoda and the War Remnant Museum.

– Click Play To Explore

Click on the side arrows
Click on each individual day to find out more
Zoom in and explore

Itinerary

Day 1: Siem Reap Arrival

Upon arrival Siem Reap International Airport, after clearing all customs procedures, walk to the main exit gate, you will be met by your driver carrying Youin Travel signboard with your name on it. Transfer from airport to your hotel.

The regular check-in time is at 14:00; early check-in is NOT included and subject to availability

Rest of the day is free at leisure.

Meals: Khmer Dinner

Accommodation: SANCTUARY RESIDENCE

Premium Upgrade Option: TARA ANGKOR HOTEL

Luxury Upgrade Option: SARAI RESORT

Day 2: Siem Reap - Angkor Tour

08:00 Our car with a tour guide will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the South Gate of Angkor Thom.

Angkor Thom, not a temple, but an entire walled city of 9 square kilometres and the royal Capital from 1181. With a population of 1 million, it was far bigger than any city in Europe at the time. The centre piece is Bayon temple crowned with 216 giant, smiling faces of King Jayavarman VII. Also visit the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King, which houses almost perfectly preserved carvings.

Return to your hotel to relax and have lunch (on your own).

After a leisurely break your exploration continues as you enter the rear gate of Angkor Wat (early 12th century).Surrounded by a 190 metre wide moat 1.5 kilometres by 1.3 kilometres it is claimed to be the largest religious building in the world. The temple, which took 30 years to construct & used the labours of 300,000 workers was built as the earthly representation of the universe with its’ central tower symbolizing Mt Meru which, Hindus believe, is at the centre of the Universe. Later, return to your hotel late afternoon.

Sun protection is recommended
Insect repellant is advised

Evening is free at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: SANCTUARY RESIDENCE

Premium Upgrade Option: TARA ANGKOR HOTEL

Luxury Upgrade Option: SARAI RESORT

Day 3: Siem Reap

Day 4: Siem Reap - Tonle Sap Lake - Hanoi ( International flight )

Depart Siem Reap, driving along the rolling verdant hills of the farmlands, stopping for a ride on an ox-cart, the vehicle still being used today by local farmers. Arrive at Tonle Sap Lake in the heart of Cambodia, with its rich
and diverse ecosystem. Embark on a serene boat excursion – observe the local life unfolding and the floating fishing villages that dot the shoreline.

Afterwards, drive to Siem Reap International Airport and fly to Hanoi, Vietnam’s bustling colonial capital.

Upon arrival Noi Bai airport, after clearing all customs procedures, please proceed to exit gate and look for your driver who will be waiting at the lobby, holding the Youin Travel signboard with your name on it and transfer you to hotel.

Rest of the day, relax at your hotel or explore the city on your own.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: MK PREMIER HOTEL

Premium Upgrade Option: THE LAPIS HOTEL

Luxury Upgrade Option: ORIENTAL JADE HOTEL

Day 5: Hanoi Half-Day Walking Tour - Street Food Tour

After having breakfast at hotel, you will be picked up at hotel to commence our walking tour to visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex, which contains the mausoleum of the nation’s founder Ho Chi Minh, the Presidential Palace and the Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts. Close to this complex is the One Pillar Pagoda, whose origins date back to the foundation of city.

We follow it with a visit to Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, this remarkable site stands as a testament to centuries of Vietnamese culture, power, and resilience. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, the Imperial Citadel encapsulates the essence of Vietnam’s past.

And then we visit the Temple of Literature, which is well known as the first university of Vietnam.

Later on, we will take a visit at Ngoc Son Temple on the way you return to the hotel.

6.00 p.m. meet your guide in the hotel lobby and start the tour to Hanoi Old Quarter “36 streets” to visit some famous and specialized- food families or stalls/ local restaurants, shops where they run their business everyday, certainly you will watch and taste some particular dishes, we can customize vegetarian or special food too.

Special thing that tour guide would like to introduce some popular authentic food in lovely mini restaurants (not luxury restaurants) where you feel comfortable to sit down and enjoy some favorite dishes and nice drinks too.

It’s interesting to hear from tour guide about the history of the old quarter in Hanoi, it is thousand years old and today retains much of the old flavor that made the area special in earlier times, each street was the exclusive domain of one trade (guilds) so there are whole streets of blacksmiths, silver shops, paper shops, headstone makers and more. Originally there were just 36 streets in the old quarter but today there are more than 50 streets.

At 21.00, our tour guide say goodbye to you, and will help you order taxi or show you direction back your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: MK PREMIER HOTEL

Premium Upgrade Option: THE LAPIS HOTEL

Luxury Upgrade Option: ORIENTAL JADE HOTEL

Day 6: Hanoi

Day 7: Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Mua Peak - Trang An Nature Reserve

At 09:00am, you check out your hotel. Then private transfer to Ninh Binh province.

On arrival at Ninh Binh, you meet our local tour guide and you conquer 500 stone steps to Mua peak with Twin dragon statues – which is the best view point of Ninh Binh, looking at Truong Yen valley and Ninh Binh city.
In the afternoon, you visit Trang An nature reserve, the most famous UNESCO heritage of Ninh Binh. Take 2.5-hour by bamboo boat on Sao Khe river which connects dozens of lakes, temples and karst mountains. Enjoy the true nature.

Your boat will go through 5 – 7 hidden caves, and the longest cave is 800 meters length. It’s a stunning experience.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TAM COC CENTRAL BUNGALOW

Premium Upgrade Option: BAI DINH GARDEN RESORT

Luxury Upgrade Option: EMERALDA RESORT

Day 8: Ninh Binh - Halong Bay

08:00 Hotel pick up from Ninh Binh with our private van. Short break half way.

12:00 Arrive Ha Long Bay, transfer by tender to the cruise, and enjoy welcome drinks. Check in your cabin and enjoy a real Vietnamese lunch while beginning your sail through the fairy land of Ha Long Bay, passing by Stone Dog islet, Incense Burner islet, Fighting Cocks, Swan islet, and Duck islet…

15:00 Explore Sung Sot “amazing” cave with millions of surprising stalactites and stalagmites for 45 minutes.

16:00 Cruising to Titop Island. Go swimming and relax at the beach or climb up to the top of the mountain for a
panorama view of Halong bay.

18:00 Enjoy the complimentary sunset party on the sundeck with wine and fresh fruits.

19:00 Dinner is served in the cruise’s restaurant.

21:00 Retire to your cabin, have a drink at the bar, sing karaoke, join the fishing excursion or play exciting games.

Note: The cruise itinerary can be changed upon the weather condition and the final cruise we’ll book.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: LE JOURNEY CRUISE

Premium Upgrade Option: PEONY CRUISE

Luxury Upgrade Option: ORCHID PREMIUM CRUISE

Day 9: Halong Bay - Hanoi - Flight to Hue

Wake up at dawn to the lapping of the waves and the smell of freshly brewed coffee, which is available with pastries in the dining room. If you wish to begin your day active, join the early morning Tai Chi class on the sun deck and merge with the surrounding scenery – a truly unique experience.

Breakfast is served as the ship sails for Thien Canh Son cave in Ha Long Bay. Witness its beautiful stalactites and stalagmites.

16:45: Arrive in Noi Bai Airport for a flight to Hue.

Upon arrival at Phu Bai Airport, after clearing all customs procedures, please proceed to exit gate and look for your driver who will be waiting at the lobby, holding the Youin Travel signboard with your name on it and transfer you to hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: THANH LICH HOTEL

Premium Upgrade Option: WHITE LOTUS HOTEL

Luxury Upgrade Option: PILGRIMAGE VILLAGE BOUTIQUE RESORT & SPA

Day 10: Hue City Tour

9.00 a.m. meet your guide in the hotel lobby and start your exploration

Once the imperial capital of the Nguyen Lords from the 17^th to the 19^th centuries, Hue’s splendid emperors’ tombs, ancient pagodas and the remains of the Citadel contribute to its undeniable royal charm. Enjoy a short cyclo ride from your hotel to the Imperial Citadel at the centre of the Complex of Hue Monuments inscribed by UNESCO as a World Heritage site. Enter through the towering main gate and appreciate the magnificent architecture and gardens while your guide explains the events and the intrigue surrounding the former royal court.

Despite being heavily bombed during the Vietnam War, there are some incredibly well-preserved sections intact and others which are being carefully restored.

After leaving the citadel, there’s time for a short visit to the Royal Antique Museum. Drive to the Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue’s best-preserved religious monument. Built in 1601, the seven-storied tower pagoda, perched on top of on a hill overlooking the Perfume River, is one of Vietnam’s most recognisable icons.

In the afternoon, visit the elaborate Khai Dinh Royal Tomb. Its architecture showcases elements of Eastern art and Western design. Notice the tomb’s blackened concrete exterior and colourful mosaic interior. Continue to the Tu Duc Royal Tomb, the most impressive of all the royal mausoleums, built by Emperor Tu Duc between 1864 and 1867. Transfer back to your hotel with a stop for a drink at Vonh Canh hill which offers an amazing view of breath-taking scenery and ancient relics. The hill itself is now covered with pine trees and daisy.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: THANH LICH HOTEL

Premium Upgrade Option: WHITE LOTUS HOTEL

Luxury Upgrade Option: PILGRIMAGE VILLAGE BOUTIQUE RESORT & SPA

Day 11: Hue - Hoian (By Road)

Day 12: My Son Temples and Hoi An Walking Tour

9.00 a.m. meet your guide in the hotel lobby and start your exploration

The UNESCO World Heritage Centre of My Son is the site of Vietnam’s most extensive Cham structural remains. My Son is the former capital of the ancient Champa civilization which ruled Central Vietnam from the 2^nd to the 13^th centuries. Morning departure from Hoi An on a scenic 1.5hr drive to the My Son complex and explore the 20 temple towers still standing today (from a total of at least 68 original structures), set in a verdant jungle valley surrounded by hills and overlooked by massive Cat’s Tooth Mountain. Stroll around the temple complex, rediscovered in the late 19^th century, to learn about the fascinating Cham culture, architecture and civilization. Notice the strong ties to Hindu divinities, namely Shiva, regarded as the founder and protector of Champa’s dynasties, before returning to Hoi An.

Note:

Tour duration: 05 hours
There are public Champa dance performances at the performance hall on site at 09:30/10:30 and 14:30.
2.00 p.m. meet your guide in the hotel lobby and start your exploration

Between the 15^th and 19^th centuries, Hoi An known then as ‘Faifo’, was a prosperous trading port, attracting Chinese, Japanese, Dutch, Portuguese and Spanish ships amongst others. Today, this World Heritage ancient town is recognised for its well-preserved architecture, pedestrian-only streets and distinctive local cuisine, allowing visitors a glimpse of its illustrious past. Hoi An’s narrow lanes are ideal for a guided walking tour of its many atmospheric sights including: the old merchant houses with influences from Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese architecture; the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, first built in the 1590s by the Japanese community to link them with the Chinese quarters across the stream; the Assembly Hall of the Chaozhou Chinese Congregation with its intricate wood carvings; and the colourful market with stalls brimming with local specialties including silk, which can be turned into fashionable garments within a day or two

Note:

• Tour duration: 02 hours.

• The Hoi An entrance ticket is valid for entry to 5 sightseeing spots in Hoi An including merchant houses, the Japanese Covered Bridge, museums, pagodas and assembly halls for 24 hours. It also provides entry into Hoi An Ancient Town for as long as you are in Hoi An. Please keep the entrance ticket with you at all times should you independently visit Hoi An later in the evening or on another day.

Evening is free at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: LE PAVILLON HOIAN

Premium Upgrade Option: EMERALD HOIAN RIVERSIDE

Luxury Upgrade Option: BOUTIQUE HOIAN RESORT

Day 13: Hoian

Day 14: Cycling Hoi An Countryside

8.30 a.m. meet your guide in the hotel lobby and start your exploration.

The flat, quiet roads around Hoi An are ideal for exploring by bicycle. Your adventure starts with a short boat trip crossing the river from Hoi An and you will have a chance to take photographs of many fishing boats and country villages. On arrival, start cycling along quiet inland trails to discover how wooden river boats are made, learn the secret of weaving the colorful straw “Hoi An” sleeping mats. Try the renowned Vietnamese basket boats. You will observe the workers in the rice fields. And explore the sumptuous landscapes and meet wonderful people.

You may wish to stop Tra Que Vegetable Village to observe local farmers working the organic fields using traditional methods that date back hundreds of years. The rich soil from this village produces some of the most flavor some vegetables and herbs in all of Hoi An. If you don’t mind getting your hands dirty, spend time to help water the plants or fertilize the land before cycling back to your hotel.

Note:

Tour duration: 5.5 hours.
Biking distance: 20km/12mi.

Evening is free at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: LE PAVILLON HOIAN

Premium Upgrade Option: EMERALD HOIAN RIVERSIDE

Luxury Upgrade Option: BOUTIQUE HOIAN RESORT

Day 15: Hoian - Da Nang - Flight to Ho Chi Minh City

Transfer from your Hoi An hotel to Danang airport for taking flight to Ho Chi Minh.

Upon arrival Tan Son Nhat airport, after clearing all customs procedures, please proceed to exit gate and look for your driver who will be waiting at the lobby, holding the Youin Travel signboard with your name on it and transfer you to hotel.

The bustling Ho Chi Minh City, still called Saigon by many locals, is a center of commerce, finance, culture and tourism in Vietnam. This metropolis, contradiction of its northern counterpart, is crowded with bikes and motorbikes, excited by numerous shopping areas and sidewalk cafes. (If time permits) we stroll around the downtown to explore the different local ways of life.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: CICILIA SAIGON HOTEL

Premium Upgrade Option: LIBERTY CENTRAL SAIGON RIVERSIDE HOTEL

Luxury Upgrade Option: RENAISSANCE RIVERSIDE HOTEL

Day 16: Ho Chi Minh Half-day City Tour - Cu Chi Tunnels Tour

Today we spend a half day exploring the captivating Ho Chi Minh City. We pass by the now-demolished wartime American Embassy on our way to the Reunification Palace. This famous edifice was a former residence of the President of Southern Vietnam until the end of April 1975. Close to the palace are some striking French colonial structures including the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Old Sai Gon Post Office.
We follow these with a visit to the Jade Emperor Pagoda and the War Remnant Museum with a wealth of images from the notorious conflicts. The sightseeing ends up with a walk around the
retail Ben Thanh Market where anything and everything is for sale!

Afternoon: Drive about 30km north-west of Ho Chi Minh City to Cu Chi town. Cu Chi tunnels were used as the base from which the Vietnamese mounted their operations of the Tet Offensive in 1968. The incredible underground network in Cu Chi stretched over 200 kilometres and became legendary during the American war. The extensive tunnels have been specially constructed with living areas, weapon factories, hospitals, command centres and accommodation. Today we have an excursion to Cu Chi Tunnels to visit an exposition hall and a widened section of the tunnels to get a feel of the underground life.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: CICILIA SAIGON HOTEL

Premium Upgrade Option: LIBERTY CENTRAL SAIGON RIVERSIDE HOTEL

Luxury Upgrade Option: RENAISSANCE RIVERSIDE HOTEL

Day 17: Mekong Delta Tour

Depart for the 1.5hr drive from Saigon to Ben Tre, situated in the Mekong River Delta, exchanging city scenes for lush rice paddies and fruit farms. At the pier, embark on a fascinating motor boat excursion past stilt houses, fish farms and scenes of countryside living. Arrive at Turtle Island, and sample freshly picked fruit and coconut milk while interacting with a local farming family. Tour a family-run coconut candy workshop which utilises Ben Tre’s famous coconuts. Explore more of the Delta’s many canals from a rowing sampan and enjoy country hospitality as you sip a cup of honey tea while taking in a traditional folk song performance.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: CICILIA SAIGON HOTEL

Premium Upgrade Option: LIBERTY CENTRAL SAIGON RIVERSIDE HOTEL

Luxury Upgrade Option: RENAISSANCE RIVERSIDE HOTEL

Day 18: Ho Chi Minh - Departure or Extend Your Holiday

Inclusions

Meals
17 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners (meals only, no drinks/ water)
Transport
- Private transfers and transportation on tour
- Domestic flights with Vietnam Airlines/ Bamboo Airways: Hanoi - Hue, Da Nang - Ho Chi Minh.
International flight with Vietnam Airlines: Siem Reap - Hanoi (Economy class with airport tax)
Accommodation
- Superior overnight accommodation including daily breakfast, hotels tax and service charges as in the itinerary or similar
- 2 days 1 night on junk (Shared cruise/private cabin)
Entrance fees and boat rides
As mentioned in the itinerary
Tour guide
An local experienced English speaking guide in each city
Cold towels and water on sightseeing days

Optional Add-On

Single supplement - $1200
(Single supplement charge means that when a solo traveller occupies the room alone, they will pay the same price as two people sharing.)
Premium Upgrade - $690 pp
4/5-star accommodation or upgrade room category for double/ twin share only.
Luxury Upgrade - $1090 pp
5-star accommodation or upgrade room category for double/ twin share only.
Solo Traveller - $790 pp
Please select 1 single supplement plus solo traveller fee at checkout.

Important Notes

Weather

Hanoi: February to April and Late September to November when it is not too hot and there is a little rainfall. The hottest month of the year is June, July.

Ha Long: October to April when it is the perfect time for cruising, kayaking, and swimming. July – August often see sporadic hurricanes and storms, which may render cancellation and delay of your trip.

Da Nang, Hoi An: January to July, especially from February to May – the best time for beach activities and low tourist footfall. The rainy season starts from September to November, there can be sporadic hurricanes and storms.

Ho Chi Minh City: The best time to visit is December to April, dry season
May to late November, it will rain heavily almost every afternoon, the rain is short and clear quickly.

Airlines

Vietnam Airlines or Bamboo Airways Domestic Flight Baggage Allowance per person: 1 piece 20 kg.

Terms & Conditions

The deposit is fully refundable over 60 days prior to the tour date.

Over 60 days prior to the travel date, no cancellation fee is applied.

All changes are allowed within 46 days of the travel date.

All names, full passport details and required information for the group are due at final payment ( Please log in My Account to complete the information form on our website.)

https://youintravel.com/booking-policy/

Reviews

SCHOOL HOLIDAY VIETNAM TO CAMBODIA – 14 DAYS

$2,689