18 Day Trails of Vietnam and Cambodia
Australian Owned
Relaxed Itinerary
Return international flights
7-day Change of Mind
Day by Day Itinerary
Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, Siem Reap
Highlights
- Embark on a journey to Halong Bay, one of Vietnam’s most renowned UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This day is dedicated to cruising through the emerald waters, where over 1,600 limestone islands and islets create a mystical, awe-inspiring landscape. You’ll explore hidden caves, such as the striking grottoes, and take in the majestic views from the sundeck of your cruise ship. This serene yet adventurous experience offers a perfect mix of relaxation and exploration in one of the world’s most beautiful natural settings.
- The temples of Angkor are a must-visit for anyone seeking to explore Cambodia’s rich historical and spiritual heritage. At the heart of the complex is Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument, renowned for its stunning architecture and intricate bas-reliefs that depict scenes from Hindu mythology. You’ll also explore Angkor Thom, the ancient capital, and the mysterious Bayon Temple, known for its massive stone faces
- The Sapa Trek takes you into the heart of northern Vietnam’s stunning mountainous region, where you’ll be surrounded by terraced rice fields and lush valleys. This trek allows you to visit remote ethnic minority villages, home to communities like the Hmong, Red Dao, and Tay, each with their distinct customs, languages, and traditional clothing. As you hike through the rolling hills and scenic landscapes, you’ll have the chance to interact with the locals, learn about their daily lives, and even participate in traditional activities
- Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels is like stepping into a living history book. These intricate underground networks, located outside of Ho Chi Minh City, played a pivotal role during the Vietnam War as a strategic base for the Viet Cong. The tunnels stretch for over 200 kilometers and include living quarters, kitchens, weapon caches, and even hospitals.
- Hoi An is a beautifully preserved ancient town that was once a thriving trading port, and the Hoi An Walking Tour offers a chance to explore its timeless charm. As you wander through narrow streets lined with colorful lanterns, you’ll visit key landmarks such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Old Merchant’s Houses, and traditional Chinese temples that reflect the town’s multicultural past.
Itinerary
Hanoi, Vietnam
Begin your unforgettable journey to Vietnam. Today you depart from your home country, heading to the vibrant capital, Hanoi.
Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), you will be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel for check-in.
Relax and prepare for your adventure ahead.
Meal : In-flight meals.
Accommodation : Babylon Grand Hotel 3* or similar.
Hanoi Sapa
Start the day with breakfast at the hotel. Check out and transfer to Sapa.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel De Sapa 4* or similar
Sapa Y Linh Ho Lao Chai Ta Van
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before your tour guide arrives around 8:00 AM.
You’ll embark on a scenic trek descending into the breathtaking Muong Hoa Valley, famous for its picturesque rice terraces. The trek leads to Y Linh Ho Village, home to the Black H’mong minority, where you’ll experience the traditional way of life, rich culture, and warm hospitality of the local people.
After a break, continue to the Muong Hoa Valley, passing through Lao Chai Village and Ta Van Village, inhabited by the Zay minority. These villages are surrounded by mesmerizing mountain views and rice terraces, providing countless photo opportunities and a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s rural culture.
The trek lasts about three hours, so ensure you have comfortable walking shoes.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel De Sapa 4* or similar
Sapa Hanoi
Fuel up with breakfast, as today’s adventure takes you on another trek, this time to Ta Phin Village, known for its vibrant community of Red Dao and Black H’mong minorities. The approximately three-hour soft trek offers more insight into the local customs, traditional handicrafts, and a chance to interact with the villagers.
After completing the trek, return to your hotel to freshen up before your transfer back to Hanoi.
Your driver will pick you up between 2:00 PM and 2:30 PM, with an expected arrival in Hanoi between 7:30 PM and 8:00 PM.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Babylon Grand Hotel 3* or similar
Optional tour: Australian Beef and Wine Tasting with Rickshaw in Hanoi
Discover Hanoi’s Old Quarter: A Unique Culinary Experience
Begin your adventure from your hotel with a one-hour cycle rickshaw ride through the bustling streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. As the sun sets, you’ll witness the vibrant nightlife of the local community, offering you a unique glimpse into the evening routines and traditions of the people of Hanoi.
After your rickshaw ride, embark on a culinary exploration that blends the rich flavors of Vietnamese and Australian cuisine. This unique dining experience will give you insights into how locals have incorporated various culinary influences throughout history.
Under the guidance of AVG Travels local chef, every ingredient has been thoughtfully selected and prepared to showcase the best of both culinary worlds. You’ll not only savor delicious dishes but also learn about the cultural significance of the ingredients and cooking methods used in traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
Timing: 5:30pm – 9pm
Optional tour: Hanoi Street Food (Dinner included)
Afternoon Stroll Through Hanoi’s Old Quarter: A Culinary and Cultural Adventure
Hanoi Halong Bay
Leave Hanoi after breakfast for the enchanting Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and highlight of any trip to Vietnam. Embark on a 24-hour cruise through this stunning natural wonder, characterised by limestone islands and emerald waters.
Relish a gourmet seafood lunch onboard, and in the afternoon, explore some of the bay’s islands.
Enjoy a swim at a secluded beach if weather permits. Spend the night on the cruise, rocked to sleep by the gentle waves.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Accommodation: Overnight on Cruise.
Halong Bay Hanoi
Rise early to join a Tai Chi session on the top deck or simply relax as the sun rise’s over the bay’s towering islands.
Enjoy a morning cup of coffee or tea before exploring nearby islands by rowboat. Return to the junk and admire the amazing rock formations of Halong Bay from the sundeck.
After disembarking, your driver will take you back to Hanoi.
Meal: Brunch
Accommodation: Babylon Grand Hotel 3* or similar
Hanoi Da Nang Hoi An
Embark on a city tour of Hanoi today, discovering iconic landmarks including the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s inaugural university, the Ho Chi Minh Complex encompassing the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and One Pillar Pagoda, and Tran Quoc Pagoda, renowned as one of Vietnam’s oldest pagodas.
Later this afternoon, proceed to the airport for the short flight to Da Nang. On arrival, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel for check-in.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hoi An Garden Palace 4* or similar
Hoi An
Enjoy a walking tour of atmospheric Hoi An today, visiting some of this historic cities popular highlights.
The Old Town of Hoi An is a labyrinth of well-preserved buildings adorned with intricate wooden carvings and colorful silk lanterns. Its iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, built in the 16th century, symbolizes the town’s historical connections and remains a popular landmark. Next up, visit the Chinese Temple, also known as the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation, a cultural gem that reflects the town’s historical ties with China.
Finish your tour at the Phung Hung Old House, a well-preserved example of a traditional Vietnamese merchant’s residence, offering insight into the lifestyle and architecture of Hoi An’s prosperous past.
This afternoon, you’re free to explore more of Hoi An by yourself or join an optional tour.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hoi An Garden Palace 4* or similar
Optional tour: Golden Bridge Tour
Discover Ba Na Hills: A Magical Day Tour
Join us for an unforgettable adventure as we explore the stunning Ba Na Hills! Your journey begins with a convenient pick-up from your hotel by our friendly guide and driver.
Upon arrival at the foot of Ba Na Mountain, we’ll board the spectacular cable car that will whisk us up to the Marseille Station. Prepare to be amazed as we step out and take a short walk to the breathtaking Golden Bridge, our first highlight of the day. Opened to the public in June 2018, this iconic bridge stands out with its golden hue against the lush forest backdrop. Supported by giant stone hands, the architecture creates a surreal and picturesque scene that feels like walking on clouds—perfect for capturing stunning photos and enjoying the refreshing mountain breeze.
Next, we’ll stroll to the enchanting Le Jardin D’Amour, a romantic flower garden featuring nine distinct gardens, each telling a unique story through its architectural style. This vibrant space offers a poetic and colorful atmosphere that’s ideal for leisurely exploration.
Our journey continues with a visit to the Linh Ung Pagoda, where you can admire the intricate architecture and the impressive 27-meter tall Shakyamuni statue. This serene location provides a peaceful ambiance, perfect for reflection and appreciation of the stunning surroundings.
After a day filled with beauty and exploration, we’ll take the cable car back down the mountain and transfer you to the charming town of Hoi An.
Hoi An
Enjoy a day at leisure in Hoi An, exploring the town’s charm or select an optional tour.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hoi An Garden Palace 4* or similar
Optional tour: My Son Sanctuary and Thanh Ha Village Tour
Experience the Wonders of My Son Sanctuary and Scenic River Cruise
Embark on a captivating journey as you start your day with a convenient pick-up from your hotel (approx 8:00am).
Prepare for a scenic 40-kilometer drive to My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that promises to leave you in awe.
Upon arrival, you’ll step into the enchanting world of the ancient Champa Kingdom. Explore the stunning ruins of Hindu temples, built by the kings of the Champa era between the 4th and 14th centuries. These majestic structures, some abandoned and partially restored, showcase intricate carvings and stunning architecture that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam. As you wander through this historical site, you’ll gain insights into the fascinating history and spirituality of the Champa people.
After immersing yourself in the history of My Son, we’ll return to Hoi An for a leisurely cruise down the picturesque Thu Bon River. As you glide along the tranquil waters, take in the serene landscapes and charming riverside views. This is the perfect opportunity to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the area, providing a peaceful contrast to the excitement of your earlier adventure.
During the cruise, we’ll make a special stop at the renowned Thanh Ha Pottery Village. Here, you’ll have the chance to witness the daily lives of local artisans as they skillfully create beautiful pottery using traditional methods passed down through generations. Engage with the friendly villagers, learn about their craft, and perhaps even try your hand at making your own pottery piece!
Return to your hotel around 1pm
Danang Ho Chi Minh City
Today, you will take a flight to bustling Ho Chi Minh City. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure or explore the city on your own.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Aristo Hotel Saigon 3* or similar
Ho Chi Minh City Cu Chi Tunnels
Embark on a city tour, visiting such landmarks as Notre Dame Cathedral – situated in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, the cathedral stands adjacent to the Saigon Central Post Office, another architectural gem from the French colonial period. Stop for a photo op at the Post Office before continuing on to the war Remnant Museum. Next dive right into the colourful Ho Ben Thanh Market, one of Chi Minh’s liveliest areas..
In the afternoon, head to Cu Chi Tunnels, a byzantine maze of underground passages, chambers and booby traps used by both the Viet Minh and the Viet Cong during Vietnam-US war. The tunnel system had become legendary during the 1960s as a strategic military base and underground community life.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Aristo Hotel Saigon 3* or similar
Ho Chi Minh City Optional Mekong Delta Tour
Explore Ho Chi Minh City at your own pace or opt for an optional tour to the Mekong to enjoy an unforgettable experience on the mighty Mekong River.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Aristo Hotel Saigon 3* or similar
Optional tour: Mekong visit the locals
Explore the Enchanting Mekong Delta: A Must-Do Adventure in Vietnam
Cruising along the Mekong Delta is an experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list when visiting Vietnam. Known as “The Rice Bowl of Vietnam,” this vibrant region offers a wealth of cultural activities and stunning natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking an authentic taste of local life.
Your journey begins with a convenient pick-up from your hotel at 8:00am, followed by a scenic 1.5-hour drive to the picturesque Ben Tre River. Once you arrive, you’ll embark on a relaxing cruise that will take you through the lush waterways lined with coconut trees. Experience the unique sights and sounds of the delta as you sail to local workshops, including a brickwork factory, a coconut processing workshop, and a village known for crafting traditional sleep mattresses.
Immerse yourself in local culture with hands-on activities. Participate in coconut pressing workshops with villagers and exploring the art of local handicrafts. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely ride on a motor cart (xe loi) or cycle through the verdant rice fields and vegetable plains, taking in the stunning scenery and vibrant life of the Mekong Delta.
To complete your day, indulge in an authentic lunch featuring delicious local dishes, all while surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the delta. After your meal, you’ll have some downtime to relax in a hammock, enjoying the soothing sounds of nature and the gentle breeze.
Tour ends back in Ho Chi Minh City around 4:30pm
Ho Chi Minh City Siem Reap, Cambodia
Enjoy free time in Ho Chi Minh City before catching a flight to Siem Reap.
Upon arrival at Siem Reap-Angkor Airport, meet your driver and transfer to your hotel for check-in.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Empress Angkor Resort & Spa 4* or similar
Siem Reap Angkor Temples
Spend a full day exploring the mystical Angkor temples. Start with a visit to the magnificent Angkor Wat, followed by the ancient Ta Prohm Monastery.
In the afternoon, visit Angkor Thom, beginning with the South Gate and the famous Bayon Temple. Discover the Elephant Terrace and the intricately carved Leper King Terrace.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Empress Angkor Resort & Spa 4* or similar
Siem Reap
Enjoy a day at leisure in Siem Reap. Explore the city, relax at your hotel, or join an optional tour to discover more of this fascinating region.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Empress Angkor Resort & Spa 4* or similar
Optional tour: Tonle Sap Lake Tour
Get ready for an extraordinary experience as you’re picked up from your hotel to embark on a captivating tour of Tonle Sap Lake, a jewel of Cambodia. Your journey begins with a visit to a unique floating village, where you’ll witness the seasonal activities that highlight the rich traditions of Cambodian agriculture and aquaculture.
Known as the “Great Lake,” Tonle Sap is a magnificent natural wonder. During the high water season from August to November, the lake swells to an impressive 2,600 square kilometers, making it the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. Its rich biodiversity has supported the communities living on its waters for centuries, creating a vibrant ecosystem.
Step aboard a boat and glide across the lake, where stilted houses rise above the surface. Soak in the views of expansive floodplains, lush rice fields, and water vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. You’ll also have the chance to observe crocodiles raised by a local family and gain insight into the lives of the Vietnamese communities that thrive on this remarkable lake.
After a day filled with exploration and discovery, we’ll return to your hotel, allowing you to relax and reflect on the unforgettable experiences of the day. Join us for this immersive adventure that blends natural beauty, culture, and local life!
Return transfers from your hotel included. Pick up time approx 08:00am, drop off 12 midday.
Siem Reap
Spend another day at your leisure in Siem Reap. Take the opportunity to visit more temples, shop for souvenirs, or simply unwind at your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Empress Angkor Resort & Spa 4* or similar
Siem Reap Home
Enjoy some more free time, maybe some last minute shopping before check out and transferring to the airport for your flight home.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: On Plane
Home
Arrive home, bringing with you unforgettable memories of your Vietnam and Cambodia adventure. We hope you had an amazing trip with AVG travels.
Included
- Return flights with Vietnam Airlines
- Incredible sightseeing including an overnight cruise on Halong Bay and guided tours of Sapa, Hanoi, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta and Angkor Temples
- 3-star and 4-star centrally located hotels
- All return airport transfers
- Overnight Halong Bay Cruise including all meals
- Daily breakfasts, and meals as mentioned in the itinerary
- All entrance fees and sightseeing as mentioned in the itinerary
- Drinking water during touring
- Transportation by air-conditioning vehicles.
- Fully escorted by professional English-speaking tour guides in each city
Excluded
- Meals and drinks are not mentioned in the program
- Visa fee in Vietnam and Cambodia
- Tipping for driver and tour guide & personal expenses
- Travel insurance (compulsory)
- Trip delays or interruptions due to airline schedule changes
- Extra costs of missed tour due to flight delays or cancellation
- Any service not clearly mentioned in the program
Fine Print
How to book and Payments
AVG Travels offers you a pay in “3 Instalment Payment Plan” as follows
- First payment: $300 per person deposit due at time of booking
- Second payment: $2,000 per person due 7 days after the initial booking.
- Final payment: Balance due 120 days before your departure date.
Please note if you book within 120 days of departure, your final payment will be due within 7 days of booking.
AVG Travels offers a 7-day cooling off offer. Please refer to the “Flexible Cancellation” section.
Flexible Cancellation
If you change your mind within 7 days of making your booking, you can request a full refund of your initial deposit. Please note, after 7 days, our standard terms and conditions apply.
Please ensure that any request to cancel your booking is received via email to [email protected], including name, booking number and the reason for cancellation.
Flight Information
This package includes return flights from Sydney/Melbourne.
Flights from Adelaide, Brisbane and Perth attract a $400 surcharge.
Airline Selection: We book the best available airlines for your journey, which may include a mix of full-service and low-cost carriers. Specific airline requests can be made at the time of purchase. This includes upgrades to your preferred carrier, premium economy or business class cabins or specific seats. Whilst we will try our best, not all requests can be confirmed.
Flight Conditions: Flights may not be direct and could involve a maximum of two transits.
Ticketing Information: Once issued, tickets are non-refundable. Changes are subject to airline rules, airline change fees, and an AVG Travels change fee of $250 per person.
Passenger Details: Please ensure all traveller names are as per passports. This includes all middle names. Errors may incur a name change fee of $150 plus airline charges, or require the purchase of a new ticket.
Flight Schedule Changes: Any changes or cancellations to airline schedules are outside our control. We recommend staying updated with airline schedules before departure. Additional expenses for extended transits or alternative arrangements are the traveller’s responsibility.
Internal Airfares: Local flights included in your itinerary may utilise low-cost carriers without meals or entertainment. Checked baggage is included; any additional baggage fees are payable at check-in.
Booking Considerations: If travelling with others on separate bookings, we may not be able to guarantee all flights are the same due to availability.
Luggage and Fees: You are responsible for your luggage at all times. Excess baggage fees, if incurred, are payable directly to the airline. All tickets will include 20 kg checked baggage per person, plus 7 kg of hand luggage. We recommend travelling with a max 20kg per person due to restrictions on internal flights (where applicable), as well as coach and train transportation. Please note, you will be responsible for handling your luggage at all times as the services of porters are not included.
No-Show Policy: Missing your flight may result in fees including a no-show fee, airline reissue fee, and possible new ticket purchase. AVG Travels charges a $250 admin fee for re-booking assistance.
Price Adjustments: Prices are final at the time of ticketing. Any subsequent changes may result in additional costs due to factors beyond our control, such as currency fluctuations or airline surcharges.
We would be more than happy to provide you with a quote for the following requests:
● Airline Preferences – You may wish to fly with a particular airline
● Cabin Preferences – These include upgrading to premium economy or business class
● Extensions (start and end cities must remain the same) – You may request to extend your
stay pre or post tour.
● Meal Requests – You may request a specific meal for dietary requirements.
● Seat Requests – If you would like to request particular seating. However please note, not
all airlines allow the selection of pre-purchased seat arrangements.
Important Information
Tour by AVG Travels
Our AVG Travels Experts have crafted this itinerary, blending local insights and travellers preferences to create this unforgettable experience. We have considered attractions, logistics, and unique opportunities, ensuring each detail aligns perfectly. Our expertise transforms trips into seamless adventures, offering bespoke inclusions that will ultimately enhance your time touring with AVG Travels.
Land Only Packages
Transfers ARE NOT included for land only packages.
Please note that customers purchasing the land only option need to make their own way to the joining hotel and the airport at the end of the tour. AVG Travels can assist with purchasing private transfers if choosing the land only option.
Physical Requirements
A reasonable level of fitness is required. Participants should be comfortable navigating stairs, boarding and disembarking from the coach, and walking reasonable distances, typically around 2 km per day or more. Please disclose any physical conditions at the time of booking to assess suitability for the tour.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping, (whilst not compulsory) is not included in your package. If you would like to show appreciation for tour guides, drivers, and bellmen, a suggested tip of $10 per person per day is welcome and can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. Tipping will be collected on day 1 of your tour. This helps support local staff who work hard to make your experience memorable.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences however any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $1,485 per person in addition to the twin share price.
Paired Solo Traveler
Not available.
Group size:
Max 26 travellers
Triple Share
Upon request except while cruising
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while travelling.
We have partnered with Nib Travel Insurance to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book Comprehensive or Essentials cover for your domestic, international or multi-trip journeys simply with us.
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveller’s responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return and must have more than 2 blank pages. Visa conditions are subject to change at short notice, so it is the responsibility of the traveller to consult with the relevant consulates to ensure they have the appropriate visa for entry to the countries being visited.
Vietnam
All Australian passport holders require a visa to enter Vietnam. You should apply for your electronic visa (e-Visa) online at least 30 days prior to departure. Please check details at https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/web/guest/home
AVG Travels can assist you with the visa process. Please speak to our reservations team for assistance. The visa and handling cost is $160 per person for a single entry visa.(max 30 day stay)
Cambodia
All Australian passport holders require a visa to enter Cambodia. You can apply for an e-Visa online or get a visa on arrival at Siem Reap International Airport, in which case you will need to pay your visa fee in USD cash. If arriving in Cambodia on an upstream Mekong River cruise (travelling from Vietnam to Cambodia) you can obtain the visa on board and your crew will assist with this process on board.
From July 2024, all travellers arriving in Cambodia need to submit an electronic e-Arrival card. Please find details https://cambodiaarrivalcard.com/
This can be completed up to 7 days before the intended arrival into the country. If arriving in Cambodia on an upstream Mekong River cruise (travelling from Vietnam to Cambodia) there is no need to complete the arrival card.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/ for up-to-date information in terms of entry requirements.
Tour Documentation
Final documentation, including e-tickets and hotel details, will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.
Children
Children must be 2 years old or over and share a room with parents at all times. Children are the same price as adults.
Tour Length
The total length of the tour in days includes time spent in flight and is subject to change depending on the flight schedule, please refer to the day by day itinerary for the time spent on land.
How to Extend Your Stay
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can pay extra for arriving early or extension your trip.
Pre-tour night:
– AU$145 per room per night
Post-tour night:
– AU$145 per room per night
Dates & Prices
Real Travelers Reviews
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Reserved your seat with a small deposit and you can change your mind in 7 days.
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