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Mekong River Tour: 28-Day Following the Mighty Mother River

See why the Mekong River is known as Asia’s lifeblood with this epic adventure. Trace the mighty River as it meanders through big cities and countryside towns through five countries. From the Myanmar hills to Vietnam’s delta, this tour covers a lot of ground and water!

HIGHLIGHTS

Various activities on sites

  • Joining the cruise along Mekong River in Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam
  • Trekking to visit the various local villages living along the Mekong River
  • Interacting with the elephant and learn about its life habitats and living condition
  • Kayaking in Vang Vieng to explore Nam Song River whilst exploring the local life
  • Beach break at one of the most beautiful and quietest beaches in Vietnam

Unforgettable moments

  • Cruising through the mighty Mekong admiring the vibrant life along the riverbanks
  • Strolling around the small streets of the charming town of Luang Prabang
  • Staying up close with the elephants, feeling their breath, touching their skin, and building the bond with them
  • Admiring the beauty of the authentic beach of Mui Ne

Nature exploration

  • The nature along the riverbanks of Mekong, the life blood of Asia
  • The nature of northern Thailand whilst exploring Lanjia Lodge and surrounding villages
  • Encounter the green nature of Vang Vieng whilst kayaking through the Nam Song River
  • The nature of the authentic beach of Mui Ne and surrounding area

Culture experience

  • The peasant culture of local people living along the riverbanks of Mekong River
  • The colorful culture of various ethnic groups living in northern Thailand and northern Laos
  • The bustling culture of Phnom Penh and Ho Chi Minh city with the effect from western culture wave

Map

Detailed schedule

Day 1 - Welcome to Kengtung

Upon arriving at Kengtung Airport the car and guide will be waiting to transfer to the hotel for check in.

After freshening up take a short stroll around downtown Kengtung, a quaint town laid out around Nawng Tung Lake. The city’s architecture ranges from fading old colonial-style houses to nondescript modern structures and several large Buddhist temples and monasteries.  It is recommended to visit to Maha Myat Muni Pagoda and Wat Ho Kong, where monks learn Buddhism in khun language, which is similar or almost same as lana from Thailand. 

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant (own account)

Overnight in Kengtung.

Notes

Kengtung Airport - Kengtung city center (4 km): 10 min

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Day 2 - Kengtung - Kokyin - Akha Village (Trekking)

After breakfast, visit Kengtung’s local market. This daily market is visited by villagers from the surrounding area who come to sell their products and barter for goods.  Visiting the market, we will see minority hill tribes in their traditional dresses.

Then depart by road to Hokyin area, the starting point of today’s trek. The trek begins with a 1.5-2 hour walk to an Akha village. Spend some time in the village and interacting with the locals to discover more about their unique customs and daily lifestyle.

Resume trekking to Na Phi Phank village, a further 30-45 minutes, which is home to Lahu people who are famous for their blacksmithing. Then loop back to where the car is waiting possibly passing a Wa Village en route. During the trek a picnic lunch will be served in a scenic spot or village.

Return to Kengtung by car this afternoon.

Overnight in Kengtung.

Notes

Transfer from Kengtung hotel to Hokyin area: up to 45 mins // Walking time: up to 3 hours // Trekking up to: approx. 10 km // Elevation: +279 m / -800 m // Difficulty: Easy

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Day 3 - Kengtung - Chiang Rai

Wake up early this morning for a colourful and enchanted local market in Kengtung, observing the local people from surroundings hill tribes who buy, sell and trade the various kind of stuffs. It is a unique place to soak in this busy atmosphere and to discover the local life.

It is worth to skip breakfast at hotel and try Shan noodles at the market. There is a section of noodle shops and other local tasty eateries.

Then, embark on a 4-hour drive to the Thai border. Before crossing into Thailand explore the border market and have lunch at a local restaurant (own account).
After completing the border formalities, say farewell to the Burmese guide and meet with Thailand guide.

Upon arrival in Mae Sai, continue driving to the Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos meet. Visit the ancient Kingdom of Chiang Saen on the steep banks of Mekong River, opposite of Laos to see a couple of magnificent ancient ruins and temples. Then embark on a long-tail boat and see the area from the majestic Mekong River’s perspective.

Overnight in Chiang Rai.

Notes

Kengtung city center – Tachilek (155 km): 3 hr // Mae Sai – Golden Triangle (27.4 km): 33 min // Golden Triangle – Chiang Saen (39.1 km): 56 min // Chiang Saen – Chiang Rai (90.5 km): 1.41 hr

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Day 4 - Chiang Rai - Lanjia Lodge

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Lanjia Lodge. Arrive at Lanjia Lodge in the afternoon. Be served a welcome herbal drink during check-in. Then, watch a presentation about the Hmong and Lahu tribes, the Golden triangle area and the giant catfish (locally known as Pla Buek) – the world’s biggest freshwater fish found in the Mekong River. Learn about activities that affect the Mekong River and people whose lives depend on the river.

Tour the Hmong and Lahu hill tribe village, including a visit at the shaman’s house of the Hmong. Drink tea with the shaman and discover why the fireplace is important to the Hmongs and why they bury the placenta and umbilical cord of their newborn babies.

Dinner and watch traditional Hmong performances.

Overnight at Lanjia Lodge.

Notes

Chiang Rai – Lanjia Lodge (132 km): 1.47 hr

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Day 5 - Lanjia Lodge - Chiang Khong - Huay Xay - Pakbeng

After breakfast, transfer to Chiang Khong border to cross to Laos. Be assisted through immigration and cross the road bridge to Lao immigration. This is done by shuttle bus and costs 30 Baht per person (please bring cash).

Please arrive no later than 08:00 at the border crossing point. Upon arrival at the Lao border of Houay Xay, be greeted by a representative from the Luang Say Cruises and escorted to the shared cruise boat. The cruise takes two days to reach Luang Prabang, with an overnight stop made in Pakbeng.  

En route a stop is made to visit and admire the authentic rural life of hill tribe settlements.

Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch onboard the boat and continue the cruise along the scenic Mekong River.

Later in the afternoon, arrive at the town of Pakbeng. Halfway between Houay Xay and Luang Prabang, this small town is lined with wooden houses along a steep street on the hillside and is quite dynamic. Depending on the rivers current, arrive at Pakbeng in time to watch the sunset over the river from the balcony of the room.

Overnight at Luangsay Lodge in Pakbeng.

Notes
  • Note: Please bring 2 passport photos per person and cash in USD for the Lao visa on arrival.
  • Lanjia Lodge – Chiang Khong border (32.4 km): 45 min // Houay Xay – Pakbeng by boat (150 km): 6 hrs
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Day 6 - Pakbeng - Kamu Lodge

In the morning enjoy breakfast at the hotel before continuing the river cruise downstream.

OPTIONAL: For early risers, there is an opportunity to visit the morning market of where the nearby villagers and hill tribes come to buy and exchange their goods.

The boat departs at 0830 am for the second half of the journey.  On the way to Luang Prabang two stops will be made.

We will make a short stop at the village of Ban Baw. Here there is a chance to see the processing of traditional rice alcohol. 

Continue downriver and you would reach Kamu Lodge around mid-afternoon. A Refreshing welcome drink is served.

You can check into your super-size tents with attached modern bathroom amenities and facilities.

You have ample time to relax before taking a stroll around the lodge or the nearby village for your own exploration.

Dinner is a feast by Kamu tribe standards. We want you to see the world from the Kamu's eyes.

After dinner, retire to your tent.

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Day 7 - Kamu Lodge - Pak Ou Cave - Luang Prabang

After breakfast, you can choose to either relax or to enjoy the traditional Kamu lifestyles and activities such as rice planting and harvesting in surrounding rice fields, gold panning in the Mekong (anything you find is Yours!), traditional fishing techniques (you can sample your catch for dinner!), visit of the Kamu village, archery contest.

You will enjoy lunch in an airy SALA settled in the middle of rice paddy fields.

Early afternoon, board on a traditional Long River and continue downstream to Luang Prabang while enjoying the refreshments served on the boat.

Marvel at the thousands of gold Buddha statues placed in sacred Pak Ou caves by devotees. Most people failed to marvel at Pak Ou towering limestone cliff.

We arrive in Luang Prabang just before the sunset. Transfer to your hotel in town.

Free for the rest of the day. Overnight in Luang Prabang

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Day 8 - Luang Prabang - Leisure Day

You are free to stroll around the town for your own exploration of the town or just relax by the pool of the hotel.

Overnight in Luang Prabang

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Day 9 - Luang Prabang - Kuang Si Waterfall

Wake up as the sun rises, we will prepare to join the most sacred tradition of Laos, the daily morning alms giving, which dates to the 14th century. More than 200 Buddhist monks depart from various temple to gather their daily meal from the faithful residents sitting quietly on the streets.

We then visit the temporary morning market near the former Royal Palace. Just set on the ground, the local people come here to barter their day’s catch from rice, to vegetable, to fish, or chicken. 

After breakfast at the hotel, we ascend the 329 steps to the top of Phousi Hill for a panoramic view of the city and the Mekong River. 

If time permits, we will visit UXO Visitor Center (closed on Saturday, and Sunday), where you can find the documentation about the secret war in Laos.

Then transfer directly to the beautiful Kuang Si, which is the biggest waterfall in the Luang Prabang area with three tiers leading to a 50-metre drop into spectacular azure pools before flowing downstream. The pools also make great swimming holes and are very popular with both tourists and locals

There is also the chance to walk to the nearby village of Ban Thapene, and explore the hidden waterfalls, which is rarely visited by other tourists

If you wish, take a short visit to the Bear Rescue Center, which houses a couple of dozen animals rescued from the hands of poachers and traffickers.

On the way back to Luang Prabang, we will take a short visit to the Ock Pop Tock Living Craft Center, set serenely close to the Mekong, this beautiful, traditionally styled workshop, where weavers, spinners and batik makers produce top-quality fabrics, offers free tours every half-hour. This is also one of the best spots to admire the sunset in Luang Prabang

Transfer back to your hotel late afternoon. Overnight in Luang Prabang

Notes

After visiting Kuang Si waterfalls, you can visit the nearby Butterflies Park, where you can enjoy the afternoon tea with the homemade cookies whilst relaxing inside the green peaceful garden full of colorful butterflies.

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Day 10 - Luang Prabang - Elephant Conservation Center

7:30AM In the morning, our driver will transfer you to the meeting point where we will join the minivan of Elephant Conservation Center for the transfer to Xayabouly (about 90KM). 

When you have arrived at the pier at Nam Tien Lake, we will transfer you to the center by boat. You might be able to catch a quick glimpse of one of our elephants while our boat docks. 

You will have some time to install yourself in your private bungalow before lunch is served. After enjoying a Laotian style meal, your guide will take you for a visit of the Center’s facilities and present our ongoing projects.

During the hospital visit our veterinarian and biologist will take you into their world and explain about the projects they are undertaking. 

Through the visit of the only Elephant Hospital in Laos, you will discover the conservation actions implemented by The Elephant Conservation Center.

You will then observe the elephants’ daily bath and learn more about our giant guests’ playful characters. Elephants are surprisingly good swimmers and love water. They also use this time to socialize.

After the elephants have washed themselves, you will meet our mahouts, who will show you how they get on and off the elephant and the commands they use. 
You will then have the opportunity to interact with the elephants with the mahouts at your side. 

Get a feel for the elephant’s amazing skin and prickly hair, and experience up close the dexterity of their trunk as you offer them some food. 

Feel free to take photos standing next to our giants!  For those who really want to get a feel of being on top of the elephant, mahout style, you can request to do so later on when bringing the elephants to the forest or socialization area.  

But this is absolutely not central to the experience we propose and is strictly on the neck, not in a chair on the elephant’s back!

While walking the elephants to their nightly resting ground you will witness the unique bond between the mahout and his elephant. 

Our experienced mahouts use vocal commands to steer the animals through the thick foliage.  As you stroll together with these magnificent creatures into the dense forest of Nam Tien, take a moment! 

This is the REAL land of elephants!  Your guide will give you some interesting information about the biodiversity of our protected forest.

Before dinner, take some time to take in the surroundings from our viewpoint. You can also go for a swim in the lake or visit the museum. 

During meal time, feel free to ask your unresolved questions to the staff or share one of the Lao style cocktails!

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Day 11 - Elephant Conservation Center - Vang Vieng

On the second day you will meet up with the elephants in the forest. After spending the night grazing in the jungle it is time for another bath. 

Enjoy strolling together with these magnificent creatures in their natural environment. If you wish, you can ask to ride the elephant, bareback on the neck, for a short time on their way through the forest, to get a physical feel for the animal.

When they have had their fill of water they are brought to the Socialization Area. This is an area where the elephants can freely interact during a big part of the day, recreating a semi-natural living environment. 

Here the elephants can enjoy being…elephants. Follow the guide around the perimeter to learn more about the elephants. Take your time on the different platforms to see how a new herd is being formed. 

This rare opportunity will bring you closer to their natural life, something which is very special about our program and difficult to find anywhere else in Laos.
Lunch is served at one of the viewing platforms. You have some time to let everything sink in. 

Following the forest picnic, you can see the resident mother and baby at the nursery. The mahout of the mother stays close by while she and her baby have a bath and play. The mother trusts him around her offspring and even lets him play with her a little bit.

After visiting the nursery you can take your time to pack your bags and say goodbye to the staff. Perhaps you would like to take in the scenery for one last time before transferring directly to Vang Vieng.

Arriving in Vang Vieng just before the dark fall over the town. Check in your hotel in town.

Overnight in Vang Vieng

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Day 12 - Vang Vieng - Kayaking Experience

We will transfer to Phatang Resort around 18 km north of Vang Vieng. 

After an introduction to the basics of kayaking we shall set off down  the beautiful Nam Song river which offers various small but fun rapids along  the way to our first stop at Tham Xang Cave. 

Here we will walk up to the massive theater like cave while hearing about local history about the area!

After emerging from the cave a short kayaking will lead us to a picnic spot on the riverside where we shall enjoy lunch. 

In the afternoon, we shall continue down the river until the next stop at the Organic Farm where mulberry tea and a variety of different fruit wines are produced.

Continuing on downstream we arrive at Tham None Cave which is one of the largest caves in Vang Vieng! It served as a bomb shelter for local villagers during the Second Indochina War. However, today it is home to a bat family and the 'Magic Stone of Vang Vieng'. The final leg of the journey is a gentle paddle downstream to Vang Vieng, where we shall arrive just in time to catch the sunset.

Overnight in Vang Vieng

Notes

Approximately: 15minutes transfer, 4.5 hours (wet season) 3.5 hours (dry season) kayaking, 1.5 hour caving/walking

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Day 13 - Vang Vieng - Vientiane

Early morning, we drive out of town to the capital, Vientiane. Vientiane is the charming and fascinating capital of Laos. This city conjures up exotic images, with the curious mix of Lao, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, French influences. En route, we will make a short stop at the H’Mong market at Km52. 

This afternoon we explore the town; with Wat Sisaket which is the oldest temple still standing in Vientiane. This amazing structure features remarkable frescoes and Buddha images. We continue sightseeing by visiting Haw Prakeo, the former royal temple of Laos monarchy, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Statue. We then visit the imposing Patuxay Monument, which is well known as Vientiane's own Arc de Triumph before continuing to the famous That Luang Stupa.

Overnight in Vientiane 

Notes

Distance: 160KM | 4 hour transfer

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Day 14 - Vientiane // Pakse - Tad Fane

After breakfast, we take the flight to Pakse, the biggest city of the southern Laos.

Upon arrival, we head east to Pakse and onto the Bolaven Plateau. The Bolaven Plateau is known for its cooler temperature being located high above the Mekong Valley. 

Stop at a tea plantation, followed by a brief visit to Tad Fan Waterfall, a picturesque twin chute waterfall. 

We will also visit the local village at Ban Lak Sipchet, which makes iron knife; and Ban Lak Samsip, which makes bamboo basket.

If time permits, we will also visit Tad Yeung and take some dip into the cool clear natural pool at the foot of the waterfall

We then return to Pakse to spend the night

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Day 15 - Vat Phou Cruise

After meeting at the Sinouk Coffee House in central Pakse at 9:30am, we transfer you to a longtail riverboat for your 2.5 hour journey to Champassak. 

Upon arrival at the Vat Phou boat, we help you to your cabins to unpack then serve lunch on deck. 

The highlight of the afternoon is the Vat Phou ruins - the majestic pre-Angkorian 10th century temple complex and boat's namesake. 

You have time to visit the museum at the ruins site, walk up to the highest temple and take as many photos as you would like.

As dusk falls, we transfer you back to the Vat Phou boat for a chance to enjoy the tropical sunset on the deck. 

Dinner is served on board, while the boat docks for the night alongside a remote Laotian village.

Notes

We need to take the downstream cruise to match with the onward journey to Cambodia. Contact us for further detail.

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Day 16 - Vat Phou Cruise

Breakfast is on board as we set sail for the village of Huei Thamo. This is a small village a few minutes walk away from the mysterious hidden forest temple of Oum Muong. 

Afterwards we rejoin the boat to continue our cruise southwards. 

Lunch is on the deck, while leisurely sailing closer to the wild paradise of the "4,000 Islands" 

Late afternoon we disembark from the boat to walk through Ban Deua Tia, a small Laotian Village where the traditional way of life has not changed in centuries. 

Our day's cruise finishes at the most northern tip of Don Khong, the largest inhabited island in the river archipelego. After dinner, the evening is yours to relax and enjoy.

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Day 17 - Vat Phou Cruise - Dong Kralor - Stung Treng

While you breakfast on the deck, the Vat Phou boat cruises the Mekong to the small village of Ban Veuthong, where you board a small boat to meander among the 4,000 Islands to Khone Island. 

You will visit the old French railway and walk across the bridge that links Khone and Det Islands. 

We continue on the boat back to the mainland for lunch at a local restaurant in a small fishing village, Xieng Di, on the banks of the Mekong. 

A bus transfers you to the historically significant Pha Pheng waterfall, "the Niagara of the East", close to the Cambodian border. 

After your visit to Phapheng waterfall you will be transferred to the Cambodia to continue your journey to the kingdom of wonders.

After finishing all the border formality, our Cambodian guide and driver will pick you up and transfer directly to Stung Treng, that takes about 1.5 hours.

Check in your hotel upon arrival. Free for the rest of the day to relax.

Overnight in Stung Treng

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Day 18 - Stung Treng - Kratie

Breakfast will be served at a local restaurant near the market in Stung Treng.

This morning, visit Mekong Blue, a local silk weaving centre offering work and an income to disadvantaged young women in this remote area. Tour the workshops and shop for beautiful silk items that carry the ‘UNESCO Seal of Excellence.’ (Note: Mekong Blue is closed Sundays).

From here, transfer south towards Kratie. On the way, stop to visit Wat Sorsor Mouy Roy in the village Sambo. The Vihea of the so-called ‘100 Pillars Pagoda’ is an important historical and cultural building and quite famous for its legend involving a princess and a crocodile. Interestingly, the site is now home to a project oriented to protecting various species of threatened and endangered turtles.

Continue along the banks of the Mekong, a very scenic route with great views. In the village Kampi, the best spot to view the rare Irrawaddy Dolphins along the Mekong. Get on board a local boat and be taken to the preferred places of these interesting creatures. As soon as the first dolphin is spotted, the boat driver will turn the engine off. Then, follow the dolphins silently (duration 1 to 1.5 hours).

Arrive in Kratie (transfer ca. 30 minutes) and enjoy lunch at Le Tonlé Tourism, which trains young locals in the principles of hospitality to ensure a better future in Kratie. Dining here means most delicious Khmer food paired with a very personalized service. The students are as excited to meet their guests as the guests themselves to meet the students.

Take some time at leisure to discover the small town before boarding a private boat to Koh Trong Island, only a short 10 minutes boat ride away from Kratie. This Mekong island reflects a  typical Cambodian village life, where people’s livelihood largely depend on rice farming and fruit cultivation (Koh Trong is famous for its pomelo, which is similar to grapefruit). Upon arrival, check in to the hotel and enjoy some time at leisure to enjoy the environment.

Dinner at Rajabori Villas.

Overnight on Koh Trong Island.

Notes

Stung Treng - Kratie (79 km): 2.30 hr

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Day 19 - Kratie - Kampong Cham - Phnom Penh

Breakfast at the hotel. Now get ready for a visit to the island that is will be home during the visit to Kratie. Decide whether to take a local horse cart or pedal around the island on a bicycle.

The first destination is the island’s Wat, where a special activity awaits: A tree planting project initiated by a local farmer, in order to recultivate the once densely forested island. Contribute to the project by planting a tree that will carry the name and leave a positive impact on the island.

Next, relax with a beautiful Khmer lunch at a local restaurant.

Now it is time to leave this beautiful island and continue the journey towards Phnom Penh. Stop in Kampong Cham to stretch ones legs on a short tour of the provincial capital and its typical market. Continue the final 120km to Phnom Penh, arriving in the late afternoon.

Phnom Penh was once considered as one of the most beautiful cities in the Orient, and despite its turbulent history and recent development, it still retains a colonial charm. Cambodia’s capital is a bustling city, majestically located at the confluence of the mighty rivers of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap. Wide tree-lined boulevards and many colonial-era buildings reflect the glorious days and add to the allure of the city, where Asian and Western traditions meet in a fascinating way.

Overnight in Phnom Penh.

Notes

Kratie – Kampong Cham (81 Km): 1.30 hr // Kampong Cham – Phnom Penh (124 km): 2.40 hr

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Day 20 - Phnom Penh - Exploration

This morning, be greeted by a driver and taken on a tour to the most remarkable sights of Phnom Penh via cyclo, an original Phnom Penh means of transportation and a fun way to explore this lively city. First, visit Wat Phnom, which is situated near the northern boundary of the city. The site contains some good examples of Khmer architecture and statues.

Continue along the lively riverfront to the Royal Palace. This palace dates back to 1866 and houses the Silver Pagoda, named for the over 5000 heavy silver tiles that cover its floors. Its original name is Wat Prakeo, meaning Temple of the Emerald Buddha. In this temple view a collection of Buddhas in gold, silver, crystal, and bronze.

The next stop is the National Museum, built in traditional Khmer style. It houses the world's foremost collection of ancient Khmer artistic, archaeological, and religious artifacts from the 4th to the 13th centuries. Over 5,000 pieces are on display, constituting the repository of the Kingdom's cultural wealth. In addition, the roof space is home to a large bat colony!

Lunch will be at Friends Restaurant.

This afternoon, visit to the remarkable Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, housed in the former school that was taken over by the Khmer Rouge and used as its main detention and torture center named ‘S-21’. A grim, but important visit that digs below the surface for a better understanding of Cambodia. (Note: All visitors to Toul Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh are required to wear modest clothing: no short pants or short skirts (knees must be covered) and no sleeveless shirts (shoulders must be covered). See-through clothing will also not be allowed. VIsitors who are inappropriately dressed will not be allowed to visit the museum.)

Late afternoon head to the riverside area of Phnom Penh, a pleasant French style promenade that is great for people viewing. In the early evening (and morning) various activities take place include exercise classes, Khmer dancing and plenty of snacking on local food. Participate in a Khmer dance class which is a lot of fun for all!

Overnight in Phnom Penh.

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Day 21 - Phnom Penh - Kep

Early morning, leave Phnom Penh in a southernly direction for Kep (4h transfer depend on traffic). Cambodia’s prestigious beach resort of the 1960s is now awakening to its former glory. A fascinating mix of a small calm beach, reminders of the past and a growing choice of activities.

Arrive around lunch time and check into the hotel. Spend the afternoon at leisure and discover Kep independently.

Overnight in Kep.

Notes

Phnom Penh - Kep (149 km): 2.20 hr

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Day 22 - Kep - Chau Doc - Can Tho

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit the popular crab market before transferring to the Vietnam border. The 1h drive leads one through some of the most picturesque scenery in this region. Travel through a sea of rice fields that are bordered with limestone mountains in the distance. Arrive at the border crossing at Phnom Den/Tien Binh and be welcomed by the Vietnamese tour guide to the Mekong Delta.

On arrival at the border transfer to Chau Doc. 

In the afternoon head to nearby Sam Mountain. There are dozens of pagodas and temples around Sam Mountain and reaching the peak is the highlight of the visit. The views from the top are spectacular (weather permitting) and there is a chance to look out over to Cambodia.

Arrive in Can Tho after the 3.5 hour transfer from Chau Doc.

Overnight in Can Tho.

Notes

Kep – Phnom Den border (149 km): 2.20 hr // Ha Tien border – Chau Doc (100 km): 2 hr // Chau Doc – Can Tho (150 km): 3.50 hr

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Day 23 - Can Tho - Ho Chi Minh City

Wake up early for a boat cruise to the colorful Cai Rang floating market which bustles with wholesalers on big boats. Here, during the early morning market hours, larger sized boats anchor and create lanes that smaller boats weave in and out of.

The main items sold here are fruit and vegetables, and every boat has a long upright pole at its bow from which samples of the goods for sale are hung. The waterway becomes a maze of hundreds of boats packed with mango, bananas, papaya, pineapple, and even floating pho vendors.

Following the visit to Cai Rang and Can Tho depart for the 4-hour drive to Ho Chi Minh City. Drop off at the hotel in HCMC.

Notes

From Can Tho to HCMC (180km): 4hours

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Day 24 - Ho Chi Minh - Exploration

Meet with a local guide and set off on a half day tour in Ho Chi Minh City. Start with a visit to the city’s most iconic building: Reunification Hall. Formerly called the Presidential Palace, images of the building were seen around the world on 30 April 1975 when tanks stormed the gates as Saigon fell to the North Vietnamese. Hear the echoes of time while walking through this historic downtown site.

Then take a stroll to Ho Chi Minh City’s colonial quarter, walking past scenes of everyday life on the way. Admire the beautiful architecture of the Opera House, City Hall, the old Saigon Post Office, hear about the glory days of French Indochina and how that era continues to influence aspects of modern Vietnamese culture.

Step inside the War Remnants Museum for an insightful, yet somber, investigate Vietnam’s military history. See exhibitions displaying imagery from the French and American wars, learning more about the country’s struggle for independence and hearing tales of the resilience of the Vietnamese people.

Then step off the tourist trail for one last visit on this Ho Chi Minh City tour at a Vietnamese coffee shop, sit down and taste the coffee like locals. After this insightful visit, return to the hotel.

Free for the rest of the day to relax. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Notes
  • History Museum is closed on Mondays.
  • Routes can change subject to client’s interest
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Day 25 - Ho Chi Minh - Mui Ne Beach

Departing early in the morning to the beach town of Mui Ne – about 220 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City. This is a wildly popular place for water sports like windsurfing and kitesurfing, and its giant sand dunes are ideal for jeep safaris. The area is also famous for its cheap, fresh seafood. The days will whizz by as you enjoy your last beach adventures and sunsets. Don’t forget to snap some photos along the way!

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Day 26 - Mui Ne Beach - Leisure Day

Free day at leisure at your own relaxation or explore the beach by yourselves. 

There are plenty of water activities on spots if you wish to spend your day. Just check with your hotel or contact us for further detail.

Overnight in Mui Ne Beach

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Day 27 - Mui Ne Beach - Leisure Day

Free day at leisure at your own relaxation or explore the beach by yourselves. 

There are plenty of water activities on spots if you wish to spend your day. Just check with your hotel or contact us for further detail.

Overnight in Mui Ne Beach

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Day 28 - Mui Ne Beach - Ho Chi Minh - Departure

Free before transferring back to Saigon to connect with another onward flight back home or to the next destination.

Notes

Mui Ne to Ho Chi Minh: 217KM / 5-hour transfer >> The departure flight should be in the nighttime. Pick up time: 7 hours before the flight

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Active Indochina Honeymoon Vacation: 4-Week Cambodia - Laos - Vietnam Holiday
Honeymoon Vacation / 29 days / fr. $8,390

If you fancy a honeymoon where you can explore the best of three countries, with lots of memorable off-the-beaten-track adventures thrown in along the way – look no further. On this action-pa... More

29-day Southeast Asia Spiritual Path 29-day Southeast Asia Spiritual Path

- Asia -

29-day Southeast Asia Spiritual Path
Must-see / 29 days / fr. $3,480

Discover a land that is inherently spiritual and deeply traditional. Visit Southeast Asia’s religious centres, from Chiang Mai to Yangon, Luang Prabang to Siem Reap. Participate in time-honou... More

Laos Grand Tour Laos Grand Tour

- Laos -

Laos Grand Tour
Family Vacation / 28 days / fr. $3,360

Laos Grand Tour is part of our Laos Family tour collection. The journey throughout Laos from the North to the South, from river to river, from mountain to mountain. The journey of culture experienc... More

Magical Northern Laos Magical Northern Laos

- Laos -

Magical Northern Laos
Trek & Hike / 28 days / fr. $3,640

Exploring the magical northern Laos on feet. Meeting plenty of colorful hill tribe villages. Immerging into the evergreen nature of Laos. Finding yourself in the most remote areas. Fulfilling your... More

Vietnam Adventure Holiday: The Unseen Northern Vietnam in 4 Weeks Vietnam Adventure Holiday: The Unseen Northern Vietnam in 4 Weeks

- Vietnam -

Vietnam Adventure Holiday: The Unseen Northern Vietnam in 4 Weeks
Unseen / 27 days / fr. $2,549

Explore Vietnam’s most remote and rugged region with an unforgettable scenic road trip. The journey rewards with visits to colorful hill-tribe villages and a chance to summit Vietnam’s... More

Soft Adventure Through Vietnam in 28 days Soft Adventure Through Vietnam in 28 days

- Vietnam -

Soft Adventure Through Vietnam in 28 days
Unseen / 28 days / fr. $2,990

Vietnam is the perfect adventure destination with colorful culture and various landscapes. The spicy nightlife spills into the morning, the sweet scenes of green peaks and rice paddies burst out of... More

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Check below the detailed information for our different destinations, our plans by travel theme or time frame to learn more before moving forward...

OUR DESTINATIONS
Vietnam
bee-white Vietnam

A land of staggering natural beauty and cultural complexities, of dynamic megacities and hill-tribe villages, Vietnam is both exotic and compelling.

Thailand
bee-white Thailand

Friendly and food-obsessed, hedonistic and historic, cultured and curious, Thailand tempts visitors with a smile as golden as the country's glittering temples and tropical beaches.

Cambodia
bee-white Cambodia

There's a magic about this charming yet confounding kingdom that casts a spell on visitors. In Cambodia, ancient and modern worlds collide to create an authentic adventure.

Myanmar
bee-white Myanmar

It's a new era for this extraordinary and complex land, where the landscape is scattered with gilded pagodas and the traditional ways of Asia endure.

Laos
bee-white Laos

Vivid nature, voluptuous landscapes and a vibrant culture collide with a painful past and optimistic future to make Laos an enigmatic experience for the adventurous.

PLANS BY TRAVEL THEME
Must-see
Family Vacation
Luxury Holiday
Honeymoon Vacation
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Trek & Hike
Cycling & Biking
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Wellness & Leisure
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PLANS BY TIME FRAME
white-icon About 1 week
white-icon About 2 weeks
white-icon About 3 weeks
white-icon About 4 weeks
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LATEST BLOG ARTICLES

In Vietnam, the Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as Full Moon Festival or Tết Trung Thu, is an occasion for a children’s night out and family reunions. Children enjoy art performances like singing, plays and lion dances, light up the night with colorful lanterns and enjoy mooncakes. 

A long-standing traditional festival that showcases Vietnam’s undeniable charm takes place when nature is at its breathtaking best.

For thousands of years, the Mid-Autumn Festival has been an occasion for family reunions and a children’s night out. It dates back to the Wet Rice Civilization of the Red River Delta over 4,000 years ago.

Back then, rice was harvested before the 15th day of the 8th lunar month. The festival falls on the full moon night of Lunar August, the most beautiful night of the year, when the moon is perfectly round and bright, and shines a magical golden hue.

The event takes place in the middle of the eighth lunar month. In 2022, the festival falls on September 10th. For the upcoming year, please find below in the article. Now, let's see more detail and prepare for it.

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On the lunar full moon, the townsfolk will celebrate Hoi An's bygone days, reenacting cultural activities and honouring ancestors with offerings to shrines and burning incense. The old quarter is pedestrianized (no bicycles or motorized vehicles until 10pm) and fluorescent lights are banned, adding to the old-world charm.)

This is a truly special night where you can wander the old town while it is lit up with lanterns and watch traditional performances, hear musical renditions, poetry recitals or watch as some of the older townsmen play a game of traditional Chinese chess.

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Fresh herbs, hearty soups and powerful, funky fish flavors are just a few of the hallmarks of Laotian food, a cuisine that isn’t widely represented in the world but is showcased at a number of excellent restaurants in some big cities like NYC, Seattle, London, Sydney, or Melbourne.

Papaya salad, beef jerky, sticky rice and laap, or larb, are examples of typical Laotian dishes - there’s a commonality with Northern Thai food that frequently causes the two cuisines to be lumped together. Lao food, though, has unique characteristics that give it a flavor all its own.

Below is our recommended list of restaurants in Laos & some big cities where you can really enjoy the authentic Laos food.

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Experiencing all that Lao cuisine has to offer is not an experience for the faint of heart. Laos’ famous fermented fish sauce, padek, has a distinct fragrance. Insects ranging from silkworms to ants and crickets can be found on many menus. Raw and cooked meats from all manner of animals are grilled and served on a stick or sautéed and served with rice. 

Ah, while we are learning about Laos traditional dishes, why don't we take a break and take a bite of Laos food history and culture.

In case you want to move directly to the dishes that you prefer, just navigate via the below table of content.

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Sticky rice is the staple food of any Laotian meal. It is called “khao niew” and made from glutinous rice. It contains a higher sugar level than normal rice, which gives it its stickiness.

Despite the name (glutinous rice), Laotian sticky rice is gluten free and therefore great for people with celiac. Sticky rice is steamed and traditionally served in small cute bamboo baskets in Laos called “lao aep khao”.

Sticky rice is a traditional Lao and Thai base dish that is served and paired another delicious main meal. You typically do not eat sticky rice on its own unless it’s been transformed into a dessert that is doused in coconut milk or sugar (if you’ve had Lao food, what I’m referring to here is purple rice). 

Sticky rice is a transparent and opaque rice that requires soaking overnight for preparations. Once cooked, the rice “sticks” to each other, and you use your hands to eat the rice by forming delicious little balls of rice and putting it into your mouth!

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Larb! Larb! Larb!

If you have already traveled to Laos, you will realize that it is one of the highlighted dishes of your trip.

Larb is basically a salad - made out of meat. (So, like, the best KIND of salad, right?). It’s a meat salad from Laos that has made its way into Thailand and other areas of Southeast Asia, as well as many countries in the world.

Like other dishes in Southeast Asian cooking, the dish combines savory flavors with fresh ones - fresh herbs like cilantro, scallions, and mint, and fresh lime juice. The addition of toasted ground rice also adds texture and nuttiness to the final dish.

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