Essential Indochina Tour 14 Days 13 Nights

After breakfast, your day kicks off with a visit to the square in front of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, honoring the nation's founder. Your guide will narrate the country's independence history before you capture memories in photos.
Next, head to the Defense Pagoda by West Lake, ending your morning with an insightful trip to the Hanoi Ethnography Museum, showcasing Vietnam's diverse ethnic cultures.
Lunch awaits at a local eatery.
In the afternoon, a fascinating stroll through the Hanoi Old Quarter awaits you. Start with the Long Bien Bridge - Paul Doumer Bridge (Trần Nhật Duật Street side) and continue to Cao Thắng Street, famous for its traditional spices. Then, explore the Đồng Xuân Market, the largest market in Hanoi, and soak in the lively atmosphere of Hàng Mã Street, known for its decorative items, Chinese toys, and colorful lanterns.
Continue your exploration through Lương Văn Can, Lãn Ông, and Hang Buồm streets, taking the time to visit the Bạch Mã Temple (76 Hang Buồm Street), the oldest temple in Hanoi. Take a well-deserved break at Café Market (Hanoi Coffee Station, 44 Hang Bè Street or another café boutique) to enjoy a complimentary coffee.
Capture the vibrant atmosphere by Hoan Kiem Lake before attending a mesmerizing Hanoi water puppet show in the evening.
Dinner is on your own, followed by an overnight stay at the hotel in Hanoi

After a delightful breakfast, continue your journey to the northern region of Vietnam towards Mai Chau, a charming village nestled in a valley inhabited by the White Thai ethnic group at the foothills of the Hoang Lien mountain range. Travel along a winding road that meanders through breathtaking landscapes, where terraced rice fields and hills blend with wooden stilt houses. Take the opportunity to pause and capture memorable photos in the sugarcane fields.

Upon arrival, enjoy a homestay lunch to savor local specialties and share moments of camaraderie with the locals.

In the afternoon, embark on a short hike through the villages of Pom Coong and Lac to experience the daily life of the White Thai people. This minority ethnic group is one of the 54 ethnic groups in Vietnam, with an estimated population of 300,000, primarily residing in the regions of Mai Chau, Lai Chau, and Dien Bien.

In the evening, have dinner with one of the locals to discover their local cuisine and traditions.

Overnight stay in a stilt house belonging to the White Thai ethnic group.

In the morning, continue your village exploration with a bike ride (or a hike depending on weather conditions) through the Thai villages and rice fields. You will also visit the local market in Mai Chau.

In the afternoon, you will be transferred to the entrance of Pu Luong to reach the starting point of the Pu Luong trek. Embark on an easy walk for 2-3 hours through beautiful villages situated on the hillsides, surrounded by magnificent rice terraces. You will also have the opportunity to observe handmade bamboo water wheels.

Visit Kho Muong Cave, also known as the Bat Cave, which is one of the tourist attractions in the village of Kho Muong. The road leading to the entrance is steep and covered with forest. It only takes 100 meters to cross the cave, but it is much larger than it appears at first glance, with many deep alcoves. Limestone blocks have been deposited over millions of years.

Pu Luong is a relatively undiscovered nature reserve, perfect for those who want to explore the majestic mountain landscapes, vast Vietnamese terraced rice fields, and the daily life of ethnic minorities. This travel guide will provide you with all the necessary information and experiences to enjoy precious moments of relaxation with family or friends.

You will have the choice between two accommodation options: spending the night in a stilt house or in a more comfortable private room bungalow of a resort.

Overnight stay in Pu Luong.

After an early morning breakfast, you will be transferred to Tam Coc, a region also known as the "Halong Bay on land." Prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking landscapes of karst mountains emerging from rice fields and winding rivers.

On the way out of Pu Luong, you will visit the Thai waterwheel, and understand how the native inhabitants get water from the stream to the fields in the high mountains.

Next, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant to savor the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. After lunch, you will be checked into your hotel for some rest.

In the afternoon, embark on a mesmerizing two-hour rowboat cruise through a stunning rural landscape of limestone cliffs and rice fields, reaching the magnificent Thung Nham canal located in Ninh Hai commune, Hoa Lu district. The spectacular natural scenery and the limestone range surrounding the small valley create a charming and enchanting landscape.

As you glide along in the rowboats, you will be immersed in a pleasant and refreshing atmosphere, leaving behind the worries of daily life. Visitors can admire the diverse formations of stalactites, resembling long ribbons of ice and water, assigning unique names to each stone. Before you, a vast green valley unfolds with winding limestone bands wrapped around the shaded campus of trees and rural cottages.

Afterward, you will have free time to stroll around the village.

Dinner is at your own leisure.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Tam Coc.

In the morning, we will pick you up from your hotel at 8:00 am and transfer you to the Tuan Chau Port. From there, a speedboat or tender boat will take you to your cruise ship. While you enjoy a welcome drink, the cruise manager will provide a briefing on the cruise's safety measures. Upon arrival, you will proceed to check-in for your cabin.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Halong Bay, recognized as the eighth wonder of the world. With its 1,969 unique karst islands, this exceptional site was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1994. The name "Hạ Long" means "descending dragon" in Vietnamese.

It's time to indulge in a delicious lunch at the cruise ship's restaurant, offering either a delightful buffet or a set menu.

In the afternoon, explore the Hang Sang-Toi Cave (Dark and Bright Cave). This is the perfect spot for kayaking or taking a bamboo boat ride, rowed by the locals. You can also swim in the middle of Lan Ha Bay and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

Return to the Indochine cruise ship for the evening, where it will anchor for the night. Take part in a culinary demonstration, where our chef will teach you the recipe for traditional Vietnamese cuisine.

At sunset, enjoy an incredible seafood dinner at the restaurant. After dinner, try your hand at squid fishing or play board games such as cards or Parcheesi. Alternatively, treat yourself to a relaxing moment at the spa.

You will spend the night on the boat, lulled by the tranquil waters of Halong Bay.

Start your day with a light breakfast to fuel up for the adventure ahead. Recharge your batteries with a Tai Chi session on the terrace to awaken your body and mind.

Next, head to Trung Trang Cave, a natural wonder that exudes a heavenly atmosphere underground. Marvel at the breathtaking views and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

Return to the cruise ship to pack your belongings and settle the check-out procedures. Before departure, enjoy a fulfilling brunch and settle any outstanding bills (if applicable).

Savor the final moments of Lan Ha Bay as the cruise ship returns to the pier.

In the afternoon, a driver will take you from Tuan Chau Port and bring you back to Hanoi.

You can expect to arrive in Hanoi around 4:00 pm, marking the end of your unforgettable journey exploring Halong Bay.

Dinner is at your leisure.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Upon arrival at Luang Prabang airport, you will be warmly escorted to your hotel in this well-preserved traditional city. Luang Prabang's serene ambiance, stunning landscapes, and cultural landmarks make it a captivating destination in Laos.

After check-in, take the time to immerse yourself in the town's tranquility and charm. Explore the picturesque streets, adorned with architectural wonders and natural beauty. Discover ancient temples or venture into the surrounding mountains and waterfalls for an unforgettable experience.

Indulge in the unique local cuisine and enjoy leisurely strolls along the Mekong River, witnessing mesmerizing sunsets. In Luang Prabang, time slows down, allowing you to unwind and savor the simple pleasures of life. Embrace this opportunity for a journey that will awaken your senses and create cherished memories of this idyllic destination.

Meals on your own.

Overnight at hotel in Luang Prabang.

For early risers, an optional opportunity awaits to participate in the captivating morning alms giving ritual to saffron-clad monks. This unique tradition, preserved solely in Laos, sets it apart as the only Buddhist nation still observing this procession. Following this enlightening experience, take a moment to explore the vibrant local markets before returning to the hotel for breakfast.

In the morning, set off to visit Wat Visoun, home to the remarkable Thad Makmo stupa with its distinctive rounded dome, showcasing a Sinhalese influence. Next, continue your journey with a visit to Wat Aham, followed by a stop at Vat Xiengthong, a temple renowned for its captivating beauty. This temple, situated at the tip of a peninsula where the Mekong and Khan Rivers meet, has become one of the most photographed in the region.

In the afternoon, proceed to the former Royal Palace, now transformed into the National Museum. Delve into the rich history as you explore its halls. Then, visit Wat Mai, a renowned temple celebrated for its exquisite golden bas-relief. During Pimai, the Lao New Year, the revered Prabang statue, usually housed in the Royal Palace Museum, is brought to this temple for public display.

This afternoon's itinerary promises a blend of cultural exploration and historical immersion, offering insights into the intriguing heritage of Luang Prabang.

Meals on your own.

Overnight at hotel in Luang Prabang.

Embark on a serene cruise along the Mekong River in the morning, aboard a traditional long-tail boat. Admire the breathtaking mountain scenery and observe the rural lifestyles along the riverbanks. Reach the Pak Ou caves, home to centuries-old sacred Buddha images and a site of pilgrimage during Lao New Year.

Return to Luang Prabang, making a stop at Ban Xangkhong, a weaving village. Engage with local experts, try wooden looms, and immerse yourself in the weaving tradition.

In the afternoon, explore picturesque rice paddies and farms before reaching the captivating Kuang Si waterfall. Take a leisurely walk along the trail, witness the beautiful falls, and visit the bear rescue center showcasing conservation efforts. Marvel at the orchid displays and the cascading tiers of the falls before returning to Luang Prabang.

This day's itinerary combines scenic exploration, cultural encounters, and natural wonders for an unforgettable experience in Luang Prabang.

Meals on your own.

Overnight at hotel in Luang Prabang.

Free time until your transfer by our driver to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap (Cambodia). Arrive at Siem Reap airport and transfer to your hotel. Siem Reap is the closest town to the Angkor temple complex, which was the center of a sophisticated civilization from the 9th to 13th century. In Cambodia, you will witness impressive stone monuments, grand causeways, magnificent gateways, and towers, all nestled in a beautiful jungle.

Enjoy self-service meals during your stay.

Overnight at hotel in Siem Reap.

Start your day with an early breakfast at the hotel. At 6:30 am, your guide and driver will pick you up to visit Angkor Wat Temple (to avoid the crowded queue), one of the world's most impressive ruins. Explore its three levels and admire the intricate stone carvings depicting Apsaras from the Angkor period.

Next, we'll head to Srah Srang, the royal pool where King Jayavarman VII bathed in the 12th century. Then, take a leisurely walk through a village and enjoy a unique high tea and picnic breakfast at a local house. The friendly hosts will greet you warmly and offer fresh fruits, snacks, coffee, hot tea, and a delightful breakfast.

Our journey continues to Ta Prohm, known as the "Tomb Raider" temple, reclaimed by the jungle, creating a haunting atmosphere. The intertwining tree roots embracing the temple's stone blocks provide an unforgettable sight.

Return to the hotel for lunch (lunch on your own).

In the afternoon, explore the mysterious Royal City of Angkor Thom, including the awe-inspiring 50-tower temple. Walk along the 8-meter-high wall, passing the Death Gate and visiting Phimeanakas and Baphuon temples. Learn about local trees and fruits along the way. The afternoon will culminate with a visit to the iconic Bayon temple, famous for its carved faces.

End the day with a mesmerizing sunset view from Phnom Bakheng, offering a spectacular view of the Western Baray and Angkor Wat.

Return to the hotel and enjoy dinner at your own leisure.

Overnight at hotel in Siem Reap.

After breakfast, visit the captivating Banteay Srei temple, renowned for its intricate pink sandstone carvings.

Continue the journey by car to a chain of hills near Kbal Spien. From there, embark on a foot adventure along a white sand path through the enchanting jungle. Be prepared for occasional narrow and steep sections.

After about 40 minutes of walking, you'll reach a waterfall surrounded by ancient carvings depicting gods from the Brahma religion. These carvings, dating back to the 11th century, feature sculptures of deities like Vishnu, Lakshmi, Hanuman, Rama, and Lingas. Explore further with the help of bamboo stairs, and marvel at the waterfall nestled within the small gorge.

Enjoy a picnic lunch at the foot of the hill or at a local restaurant.

Next, visit Banteay Samre temple, known for its elaborate architecture and exceptional carvings. Take time to appreciate the intricate details of this temple. Also, explore a local village and the Baray Oriental sites, including Banteay Kdey, Pré Rup, Preasat Khleang, and Mébon Oriental, all constructed during the reign of Rajendravarman.

Dinner will be self-service.

Overnight at hotel in Siem Reap.