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A Luxury Grand Tour of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos

Duration
19 days
Price guide
From $19,418 per person
Embark on a 19-day grand tour, an unforgettable journey through Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. Begin your adventure in Hanoi, exploring the city by cyclo before spending a serene night aboard a traditional junk ship in Lan Ha Bay. Dive into the vibrant flavours of Hoi An with a hands-on cooking class, then delve into the rich history of Ho Chi Minh City. Cruise along the Mekong River to Phnom Penh, where you'll discover Cambodia's hidden temples and witness the sunrise at Angkor Wat. Conclude your journey in Luang Prabang, observing a sacred morning monk alms-giving ritual, a fitting end to this extraordinary cultural odyssey.

Trip highlights

  • Explore Hanoi by cyclo
  • Spend the night on a traditional junk ship in Lan Ha Bay
  • Taste the flavours of Hoi An with a cooking class
  • Visit the historical landmarks of Ho Chi Minh city
  • Cruise the Mekong River to Phnom Penh
  • Visit lesser-known temples in Cambodia
  • Visit Angkor Wat at sunrise
  • Attend a morning monk alms-giving ritual in Luang Prabang

Bespoke trips with Jacada

We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:

  • Luxury accommodation throughout
  • Privately guided tours
  • Private transfers
  • Meticulously selected experiences
  • Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge

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Itinerary in detail

Every trip is shaped around you. Below is a sample route to start from; we change any part of it to suit you.

Days 1-3

An introduction to Hanoi

Your luxury trip starts with two nights in the vibrant Vietnamese capital, Hanoi. With its ochre-coloured buildings, tree-lined boulevards and scenic lakes, this is a city full of charm. You’ll have our recommendations for sightseeing and restaurant recommendations, and we’ll arrange specialist private excursions.

An introduction to Hanoi

Where you could stay

Exploring Hanoi on a cyclo tour

Exploring Hanoi on a cyclo tour

Discover the charm of Hanoi with its ochre-colored colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards, and serene lakes. Begin your tour at the historic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, an impressive monument crafted from marble and granite, housing the preserved body of ‘Uncle Ho’.

Adjacent to the Mausoleum lies Ho Chi Minh’s residence, offering a glimpse into his life with personal belongings on display, including his bedroom accessible via a staircase. Explore the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, a revered temple in Vietnam.

Then, embark on a captivating hour-long cyclo tour through the lively old quarter, famous for its ‘tunnel’ houses designed to reduce taxes. Navigate the maze of backstreets, gaining insights into everyday life and the country’s rich history along the way.

Visit to Vietnam's centuries-old pagodas

Visit to Vietnam's centuries-old pagodas

After a scenic 45-minute drive from Hanoi, you’ll arrive at the historic Tay Phuong Pagoda, a cultural landmark dating back to the 17th century. This renowned site is home to an exquisite collection of 18 jackwood Buddha statues, each masterfully coated with lacquer. As you ascend the 239 ancient laterite steps, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, where lush fields, majestic mountains and villages stretch as far as the eye can see.

Next, a short drive will take you to a serene village, where you’ll explore the enchanting Thay Pagoda. This 11th-century pagoda beautifully blends Buddhist and Taoist traditions, offering a tranquil retreat steeped in history and spirituality. After soaking in the peaceful ambiance, you’ll be comfortably driven back to Hanoi.

Day 4

One night in Lan Ha Bay

Enjoy an overnight journey through the ethereal beauty of Lan Ha Bay. Spend a night aboard a traditional junk ship, awakening to the surreal sight of limestone karsts piercing through the misty dawn, creating an otherworldly panorama. There are few experiences as magical as watching the sunrise from the comfort of your cabin, then watching it sink behind the sparkling water as the day draws to a close.

As your vessel gracefully navigates through the maze of islands, discover secluded bays and pristine, white sandy beaches that beckon you to explore their untouched splendour. Encounter the enchanting floating villages, where life unfolds against the backdrop of emerald waters and towering cliffs. Caves await your exploration and islands invite you to cycle along their shores. Swimming, snorkeling and kayaking give you the chance to embrace the natural wonders that surround.

One night in Lan Ha Bay

Where you could stay

Days 5-7

Three nights in Hoi An

In the ancient town of Hoi An, time seems to stand still amid the well-preserved buildings and cultural treasures. On a walking tour, immerse yourself in the charm of Hoi An’s pedestrianised streets, where the legacy of Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese influences seamlessly blend. Explore old merchants’ houses, each a testament to the town’s rich history and its cosmopolitan past. Marvel at the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, an emblem of Hoi An’s enduring allure.

Three nights in Hoi An

Where you could stay

Make it mine

Walking tour of Hoi An

Together with a local expert, wander through the narrow lanes of Hoi An, a town steeped in history.

Once a thriving port from the 17th to 19th centuries, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into its past with well-preserved buildings, car-free streets and delectable cuisine.

On this walking tour, explore old merchants’ houses reflecting Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese architecture, cross the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, admire the intricate wood carvings at the Chaozhou Assembly Hall, and browse the lively market, where you can find silk transformed into stylish garments in just a day or two.

Days 8-9

Two nights in Ho Chi Minh

Experience a day in the life of a Saigonese as you weave through the streets of Ho Chi Minh, beginning with the city’s largest flower market, Ho Thi Ky. Marvel at the kaleidoscope of colours as vendors trade in a symphony of roses, lotuses, lilies and orchids. Blend in with the locals, savouring Vietnamese coffee at a leisurely pace while absorbing the atmosphere. Throughout your sojourn here, you’ll have plenty of time explore the intricate web of streets, treating your palate to the opulent flavours and aromatic spices that characterise the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. A piping-hot bowl of traditional pho is a culinary masterpiece crafted with love and passed down through generations.

Two nights in Ho Chi Minh

Where you could stay

An exclusive Ho Chi Minh city tour

An exclusive Ho Chi Minh city tour

Explore the dynamic heart of Vietnam with a half-day tour of Ho Chi Minh City. Experience the city’s vibrant energy while delving into its history. Visit landmarks like the former Presidential Palace, where Saigon’s government once ruled, the Notre Dame Cathedral inspired by its Parisian counterpart and the Central Post Office. The tour also includes a visit to the War Remnants Museum, offering a powerful perspective on the American War through the eyes of the Vietnamese people.

Days 10-12

Sailing the Mekong River to Phnom Penh

Indulge in three unforgettable nights aboard a luxury vessel as you drift along the serene Mekong River, where time seems to slow and every moment is a feast for the senses. Your journey will be shaped by the boat you select, but no matter your choice, you’ll be treated to impeccable service and breathtaking views. Along the way, you’ll gain a unique perspective on the vibrant life that thrives on the river’s banks, experiencing firsthand the deep connection between the people, wildlife and this vital waterway.

Sailing the Mekong River to Phnom Penh

Where you could stay

Day 13

Overnight in Phnom Penh

Located at the confluence of the Mekong, Tonle Sap and Bassac rivers, Phnom Penh is known for its rich history, evident in landmarks like the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. The city has a lively riverside, local markets and a growing café culture, making it a hub for both culture and commerce in Southeast Asia.

Overnight in Phnom Penh

Where you could stay

An exclusive city tour of Phnom Penh

An exclusive city tour of Phnom Penh

Visit the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, two of Phnom Penh’s  landmarks and stunning examples of Khmer architecture, originally built by the French in 1866. The Royal Palace is the residence of King Sihamoni, while the Silver Pagoda, named for its 5,329 solid silver floor tiles, impresses with its unique elegance. Afterward, explore the National Museum, home to the world’s finest collection of Khmer art. For a change of pace, browse the chic shops on Street 240 or visit Wat Phnom, the small hill that gave the city its name.

Make it mine

Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

Visit Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, once a high school that the Khmer Rouge transformed into an interrogation centre and prison in 1975.

Over 17,000 people were tortured here before being sent to the killing fields outside the city.

Pol Pot’s brutal regime, aimed at creating a classless society, led to the deaths of nearly 2 million people through execution, starvation and disease.

Days 14-16

Three nights in Siem Reap

Siem Reap serves as the gateway to one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world: Angkor Wat. Steeped in history and surrounded by lush greenery, Siem Reap offers a vibrant mix of traditional Khmer culture and modern amenities.

However, it’s the ancient temple complex of Angkor Wat that truly steals the spotlight. As the largest religious monument in the world, Angkor Wat stands as a testament to the grandeur and ingenuity of the Khmer Empire, showcasing intricate carvings, towering spires and sprawling grounds.

Beyond its architectural magnificence, Angkor Wat holds profound spiritual significance for the Cambodian people, serving as a symbol of national identity and resilience. A visit to Siem Reap and Angkor Wat promises an unforgettable journey through time, where the mysteries of the past blend seamlessly with the beauty of the present.

Three nights in Siem Reap

Where you could stay

Angkor Wat at sunrise

Angkor Wat at sunrise

Witness the breathtaking sunrise at Angkor Wat, a marvel of ancient architecture and one of the world’s wonders. Relish at the temple’s grandeur and learn about the flourishing Khmer Empire during its construction between the 9th and 13th centuries.

Wander through the exquisitely adorned corridors adorned with intricate carvings, offering insight into the temple’s rich history and continued significance for local communities.

Visit the Siem Reap countryside

Visit the Siem Reap countryside

Venture beyond the temples of Siem Reap into rural landscapes little-changed since the era of Jayavarman VII. A brief journey from the city leads you to modern pagodas and rural communities where you can buy seasonal fruits straight from the tree.

Stay to dine in a villa surrounded by rice paddies, wandering across the levees and enjoy traditional Khmer music while the chef prepares your meal.

Make it mine

Explore Ta Prohm

While the grandeur of Angkor Wat attracts crowds, the serenity of lesser-explored temples offers a unique and intimate experience. Among them, the enchanting Ta Prohm stands out, cloaked in nature’s embrace with intertwining tree roots reclaiming the temple’s stone structures.

Venturing off the beaten path allows for a profound connection with the rich Khmer history and the architectural marvels that may not grace postcards but possess a distinct charm of their own.

Days 17-19

Three nights in Luang Prabang

Experience the charm and tranquility of Luang Prabang with a three-night stay in this UNESCO World Heritage city. Begin your journey with an early morning ritual, offering alms to saffron-robed monks, a time-honored tradition that showcases the city’s spiritual heart. Explore the picturesque waterfalls of Tat Khouangsi, where you can marvel at the cascading turquoise pools and enjoy a refreshing swim. There’s more to see.

Three nights in Luang Prabang

Where you could stay

Positive impact

Living Land Community farm experience

Experience a taste of rural life as you try your hand at rice farming and learn about the steps involved in traditional rice growing and production at the Living Land Rice Farm. After mastering the rice-making process, wander through the organic garden to pick fresh vegetables, then relax in a traditional wooden house overlooking the emerald fields to enjoy your harvest alongside a selection of local rice treats. The goods you’ll find woven through the experience, like the clothing, snacks and rice wine, are all made by the villagers, helping to fund children’s education and medical needs among other community benefits.

Make it mine

KuangSi waterfalls and village tour

Enjoy a visit to KuangSi waterfalls where the main cascade drops 90 metres into a series of pools connected by smaller falls. At low water levels, the pools shine with an incredible turquoise hue, perfect for a refreshing swim. On your walk through the surrounding forest, you’ll also pass the Free the Bears project, where rescued Asiatic Black (Moon) Bears and a Malayan Sun Bear live. These bears can often be seen foraging for food or napping in their enriched enclosures.

On the way back, consider stopping in the villages of Ban Ou, Ban Ouay and Ban Thapene to experience the diverse cultures of the Lao ethnic groups.

★★★★★

“Cambodia and Vietnam Adventure”

We traveled to Cambodia and Vietnam for three weeks in October, 2017. We are an active retired couple traveling with our 86 year old uncle whose mobility is limited. Jacada had several phone interviews with us in the planning stages to learn as much as they could about what we wanted to see, where we wanted to go and our…

Karen · Trustpilot

Why book with Jacada

  • Personalised design

    We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.

  • Authentic experiences

    Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.

  • Positive impact

    We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.

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