Cambodia & Vietnam Experience

Cambodia & Vietnam Experience

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26 Days From

$2435

$1771

Cambodia & Vietnam Experience

26 Days Starting in Bangkok and ending in Hanoi

Visiting: Bangkok, Siem Reap, Battambang, Chambok, Kampot, Phnom Penh, Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Mekong Delta – Ho Chi Minh City – Overnight Train, Hoi An, Hue, Hue – Overnight Train, Hanoi, Da Bac, Cat Ba Island

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

TKRNC

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 16

Physical rating:

Low, Low

Age range:

15-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Interests:

Cultural, History

From: $2435 $1771 Operator discount: -$609 Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$55 -27%

NB: Prices correct on 14-Oct-2024 but subject to change.

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Tour Overview

Prepare for an epic adventure loaded with ancient sights and natural beauty as you travel from the hustle of Bangkok to the bustle of Hanoi. In Cambodia, call into the ancient temples at Angkor, take on beguiling Phnom Penh and get a taste of Khmer hospitality with a village homestay in Chambok. Then veer into Vietnam to trace its coastline from south to north, visiting the chaotic Ho Chi Minh City all the way up to old-world Hanoi, with historic Hoi An and Hue at its centre. Along the way, revel in the sheer beauty of the landscape, the friendliness of the locals and the social organisations that are providing brighter futures for this region. Oh, and did we mention the food? To die for.

Highlights

  • Enjoy the guidance of a local expert as you temple-hop around the dazzling Angkor complex – one of South East Asia's premier sites.

  • Confront the sobering but important Khmer history in Phnom Penh, with included visits to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek.

  • Experience local life during homestays in the Mekong Delta and Da Bac. Get to know local families, participate in their activities and enjoy a homestyle meal.

  • Hoi An is another idyllic pocket of Vietnam that's best experienced from the seat of a bike. Take a guided bicycle tour through the rolling countryside and see local life pass you by.

  • Kayak around the limestone karsts and shimmering waters of Lan Ha Bay and help out the locals’ environmental efforts along the way.

  • Experience local life during homestays in Chambok in Cambodia and the Mekong Delta and Da Bac in Vietnam. Get to know local families, participate in their activities and enjoy a homestyle meal.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Bangkok

Location: Bangkok

Accommodation: Hotel

Sa-wat-dee! Welcome to Bangkok. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, where you’ll meet your trip leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, you could take a riverboat to Chinatown and explore the crowded streets, uncover the magnificent Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, wander down the tourist mecca of Khao San Road, or indulge in a Thai massage. There is plenty to keep you occupied in this exciting city. After your briefing, why not head out with the group to try some of Bangkok’s famed street food – pad thai anyone?

Optional Activities:
-Bangkok - Grand Palace
-Bangkok - Wat Pho
-Bangkok - Thai Massage
-Bangkok - Jim Thompson's House

Day 2: Siem Reap

Location: Siem Reap

Accommodation: Guest House

Meals Included: breaksfast

Prepare for a long day of travel as you cross Thailand and enter Cambodia today. Your leader will be on-hand to assist with the border procedures. When you arrive, enjoy a free evening to explore this small but bustling town. You may want to head to Pub Street to grab a bite to eat and sample the city’s nightlife. Or, maybe just rest up in preparation for tomorrow’s visit to Angkor Wat.

Day 3: Siem Reap

Location: Siem Reap

Accommodation: Guest House

Today you'll visit the incredible Angkor complex with your guide. If you’re keen, this place is best seen at sunrise, so you can get up super early and head to the complex on your own before your included tour. With your group, you’ll hop on the Remork-moto (Cambodian Tuk-tuk) with an all-female crew from Drivers Srey, whose mission is to support local women with sustainable income to support their families – this will be your transport at Angkor Wat today. With a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your visit to the world-famous Angkor complex, built between the 9th and 13th centuries when the Khmer Empire was the pre-eminent influence in Southeast Asia. The ruins are scattered over some 160 square km – the biggest religious monument in the world! Thankfully, the central cluster of temples is close to Siem Reap, so you'll have plenty of time to fully appreciate the main archaeological sites, including Angkor Wat – the astounding main temple, Bayon – a marvel of many sculpted decorations and Ta Prohm – a series of smaller temples covered in tree roots and jungle. Your guide will add to your experience by bringing ancient history to life with their extensive knowledge of the site.

Included Activities:
-Siem Reap - One day Angkor Pass
-Siem Reap - Angkor Temples Guided Tour

Day 4: Battambang

Location: Battambang

Accommodation: Hotel

Today, enjoy a free morning in Siem Reap (if Angkor is calling you back, maybe get up early and catch the sunrise) before travelling to Battambang – Cambodia's second-largest city. Battambang (pronounced Battambong) is a riverside town of French elegance, Khmer people and beautifully preserved architecture. The city is famous for its many statues of animals and divinities that decorate the streets and buildings. The city lacks the traffic of Phnom Penh and the visitor numbers of Siem Reap, so it’s a great place to get a real, authentic slice of Cambodia. When you arrive, follow your leader on an orientation walk to familiarise yourself with the town. Then, enjoy some free time. Tonight, maybe walk along the riverfront where locals indulge in yoga and folk dancing, and watch the sunset.

Included Activities:
-Battambang - Leader-led orientation walk

Day 5: Battambang

Location: Battambang

Accommodation: Hotel

There are lots of optional activities you can choose from today – just ask your trip leader will for advice. If you’re feeling active, maybe hop on a bike or take a tuk-tuk tour to the countryside to learn about rural life. Maybe take part in a cooking class and try your hand at some Khmer cuisine. Or, you might like to visit the hilltop Wat Banan temple, offering 360-degree panoramic views over the Sang Ke River.

Optional Activities:
-Battambang - Countryside tour of local producers
-Battambang - Cooking class in a local home
-Battambang - Phnom Sampov bat caves

Day 6: Chambok

Location: Chambok

Accommodation: Homestay

Meals Included: dinner

Travel by private vehicle into rural Cambodia this morning, to the region of Kampong Speu and the village of Chambok. A member of the Chambok community will take you on a village walk when you arrive – chat about the community’s history, lifestyle and local ecotourism projects and meet the families you’ll be spending the night with. In the evening, head to the community centre to enjoy a local Khmer dinner prepared by some community members. You'll also be treated to a traditional dance performance.

Included Activities:
-Chambok - Traditional dancing
-Chambok - Homestay and activities
-Chambok - Khmer Dinner

Day 7: Kampot

Location: Kampot

Accommodation: Guest House

Meals Included: breaksfast

Morning after breakfast, trek to stunning Chambok waterfall, if the weath's righ before jumping on a private bus this morning and drive to Kampot – one of Cambodia's most attractive old towns. Renowned for its pepper, Kampot supplied most French restaurants with this vital spice for many years during colonial rule. Today, the region is well-known for its plantations of durian – a spiky, pungent fruit that you either love or hate (try one and decide for yourself). In your free time this afternoon, maybe stroll along the riverside and observe the French architecture, or have a cup of coffee on the veranda of one of the riverside restaurants and admire the view of the Bokor Mountain Range.

Included Activities:
-Kampot - Leader-led orientation walk
-Kampong - Chambok Watefall Trek

Optional Activities:
-Kampot - Sunset cruise (join-in)

Day 8: Kampot

Location: Kampot

Accommodation: Guest House

Enjoy a free day in this chilled-out town. For a unique photo opportunity, head to the roundabout in the centre of the town, where a giant durian statue sits smack in the middle. Then, maybe browse for goodies at the covered market. The nearby countryside is also a delight to explore – among fields of Kampot pepper and rice there’s also a salt field and a limestone cave with a small seventh-century brick temple inside called Phnom Chhnork. Otherwise, why not have a relaxing day and enjoy one of the highly recommended traditional massages?

Optional Activities:
-Kampot - Phnom Chhnork
-Kampot - Kep National Park hike
-Kampot - Khmer massage

Day 9: Phnom Penh

Location: Phnom Penh

Accommodation: Hotel

Leave Kampot in your dust this morning and travel by local bus to the capital city of Phnom Penh. Cambodia's capital is set on a major junction of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers and boasts some fine examples of French-inspired architecture. Perhaps spend your free afternoon visiting the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda. Wat Phnom, shrouded in myth, is equally worth a visit, as is the National Museum with its excellent Khmer collection. Cyclo tours around the city are a great alternative to walking and generally include the art deco Psar Thmei (Central Market), US Embassy, Wat Phnom, Mekong riverfront, Independence Monument and Royal Palace.

Day 10: Phnom Penh

Location: Phnom Penh

Accommodation: Hotel

Today you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about Cambodia's tragic past on a guided tour of Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek – two sites that tell the story of the tragic legacy of the Khmer Rouge. After this, the afternoon is free for you to explore further. If you're looking to relax, the Seeing Hands massage parlours are some of the best in the city, and all visits support the staff who all have visual impairments. Their years of expertise may be just what you need today after a busy couple of days!

Included Activities:
-Phnom Penh - Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21)
-Phnom Penh - Killing Fields of Choeung Ek

Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City

Location: Ho Chi Minh City

Accommodation: Hotel



Travel by local bus from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City. Your leader will again assist you with border crossing procedures and you’ll stop for lunch. When you arrive, get out and discover Ho Chi Minh City's blend of old and new, east and west, and be sure to sample a baguette or some of the excellent coffee on offer – both markers of the city's strong French influence. Tonight, maybe hit one of the hole-in-a-wall bars and explore the nightlife. Ask your leader for the best restaurants and bars in the area to toast to a trip well-travelled.

Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City

Location: Ho Chi Minh City

Accommodation: Hotel

Xin chao! Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm today. As you won’t be spending much time in Ho Chi Minh City, we recommend arriving a few days early to see more of this fascinating city. See the ancient pagodas and cathedrals near the former Presidential Palace, historic Dong Khoi Street, and the chaotic markets of Ben Thanh and Cholon (Chinatown).

Optional Activities:
-Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnel Experience Urban Adventure
-Ho Chi Minh City - Ho Chi Minh Mekong Discovery Urban Adventure

Day 13: Mekong Delta

Location: Mekong Delta

Accommodation: Homestay

Meals Included: lunch, dinner

This morning, head away from the city and make your way to the province of Ben Tre, where you’ll get on a boat to tour the canals of the Mekong Delta. This fertile area is famous for its abundance of fruit, flower and rice crops, and is known as the ‘rice bowl’ of Vietnam. During your boat ride you’ll visit some cottage industries along the river before heading to your guesthouse. Tonight's homestay, close to the delta and hosted by a Vietnamese family, will be one of the highlights of your trip, giving you a taste of community life as well as the chance to enjoy a traditional home-cooked meal.

Included Activities:
-Mekong Delta - Boat Cruise, Lunch and Homestay

Day 14: Mekong Delta – Ho Chi Minh City – Overnight Train

Location: Mekong Delta – Ho Chi Minh City – Overnight Train

Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train

Meals Included: breaksfast

Rise early to the sounds of the river coming alive, and enjoy a simple breakfast before boarding the boat back down the delta and catching a bus back to Ho Chi Minh City. Enjoy some free time in Ho Chi Minh City this afternoon, perhaps with a visit to the War Remnants Museum or Reunification Palace. If you haven’t already, head to Ben Thanh Market for some delicious street food, colourful shopping and even more colourful characters. This evening, board an overnight train bound for Danang. Trains are a common form of transport in Vietnam, so sit back and relax into this local experience.

Optional Activities:
-Ho Chi Minh City - Reunification Palace
-Ho Chi Minh City - War Remnants Museum

Day 15: Hoi An

Location: Hoi An

Accommodation: Hotel

Arrive in Danang by train and travel by minibus for approximately 1 hour to Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Centre that continues to undergo restoration work today. It was a major trading port with the West from the 17th century. Today, parts of Hoi An look exactly as they did more than a century ago. Your leader will take you on a sightseeing walk through the Old Town and visit some of the city's major attractions. A sightseeing pass is included in your tour so you can visit a selection of the major sights. Hoi An is also a shopping mecca, so head down to the markets and street stalls to browse paintings, woodwork, ceramics and lanterns. It’s also famous for its tailors who can make beautiful items to order, and with almost three full days here you have the chance to have some unique pieces whipped up.

Included Activities:
-Hoi An - Old Town walking tour

Optional Activities:
-Hoi An - Food Adventure Urban Adventure

Day 16: Hoi An

Location: Hoi An

Accommodation: Hotel

Wake up for a free morning to do as you please. It’s a great opportunity to take a trip out to the My Son temples – a World Heritage-listed site constructed between the 4th and 14th centuries that reflects the rich cultural traditions of the Cham civilisation. In the afternoon, swap walking for cycling with a bike ride through the countryside near Hoi An. There's no better way to explore the peaceful area than on two wheels. You’ll see places few tourists get the chance to see among the green rice paddies and small creeks, which will give you a true insight into rural life in Vietnam.

Included Activities:
-Hoi An - Countryside bicycle hire

Optional Activities:
-Hoi An - Private Hoi An: My Son Discovery

Day 17: Hoi An

Location: Hoi An

Accommodation: Hotel

You’ve got another day to explore this historic haven. Perhaps book in your final tailoring fitting this morning to make sure the threads you’re getting made fit like a glove, or hire a bike for a lazy ride out to the South China Sea to relax on An Bang or Cua Dai beach. Hoi An is also known for its great food, so you could book yourself in for a cooking class to take some culinary secrets away with you. Most tours include a trip to the local food markets, and some take you on a short boat journey along the Thu Bon River. Let your local leader know what you're into and they will be able to recommend some activities to suit.

Optional Activities:
-Hoi An - Cooking class

Day 18: Hue

Location: Hue

Accommodation: Hotel

Bid farewell to Hoi An this morning and make your way to Hue. The drive in a private vehicle will take around 5 hours. You’ll be travelling on the incredible Hai Van Pass, through lush mountains and past scenic lookouts, and there’ll be some good places for a photo stop. Once in Hue, you’ll have a free afternoon to explore. Hue was once Vietnam’s imperial capital and has a curious mix of bustling streets and tranquil enclaves. Perhaps visit the Dong Ba Market, which sells everything imaginable and is a great place to spend some time. It’s important to know that Hue is renowned for its cuisine, with some delicious dishes originating from this region, including bun bo hue (Hue’s delicious take on pho), and banh khoai (a filled turmeric crepe). Time to give your tastebuds a workout.

Day 19: Hue – Overnight Train

Location: Hue – Overnight Train

Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train

Enjoy a free day in Hue. Perhaps visit the Imperial Citadel which includes the Forbidden Purple City that was almost totally destroyed during the Vietnam War. The gaping holes left by bombs give you an idea of how much destruction occurred in this country. If you'd rather take to the water, hop on a dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River and then visit Thien Mu Pagoda – the unofficial symbol of Hue. Here you’ll see an active Buddhist monastery dating back to 1601 and a car belonging to the monk who tragically set himself alight in public to protest against the treatment of Buddhists. You may also like to visit one of the royal tombs, that of Emperor Tu Duc, with its central lake set amid a grove of frangipani and pine trees. This evening, take another overnight train bound for Hanoi. The journey will take approximately 12 hours.

Optional Activities:
-Hue - Imperial City Full Day Tour
-Hue - Thien Mu Pagoda - Free
-Hue - Emperor Tu Duc's Tomb
-Hue - Highlights & back streets by motorbike (without lunch)
-Hue - Highlights & back streets by motorbike (with lunch)

Day 20: Hanoi

Location: Hanoi

Accommodation: Hotel

Arrive in Hanoi at about 5 am and transfer to your hotel. Once you’ve dropped off your bags and freshened up, embark on a walking tour of Vietnam’s charming capital. Explore the 36 streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter – locally known as this because of each street originally selling a specific type of product. Continue on to the Dong Xuan Market and Hoan Kiem Lake, making sure you check out the unique architecture along the way. Hanoi has a French provincial feel left over from colonial times, but it also has a Buddhist influence and striking modern buildings. The rest of the day is yours to explore Hanoi as you please. In the evening, why not get your group together and head out to a bustling night market for some local fare. Sitting on plastic stools and eating on the roadside is a rite of passage in Vietnam.

Included Activities:
-Hanoi - Old Quarter Walking Tour

Optional Activities:
-Hanoi - Army Museum
-Hanoi - Women's Museum
-Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh Complex
-Hanoi - Fine Arts Museum
-Hanoi - Street Food Experience Urban Adventure
-Hanoi - Temple of Literature
-Hanoi - Hoa Lo 'Hanoi Hilton' Prison
-Hanoi - Museum of Ethnology

Day 21: Da Bac

Location: Da Bac

Accommodation: Homestay

Meals Included: lunch, dinner

Leave Hanoi after breakfast around 8 am and make the drive to Sung Village (approximately 4 hours). There are around 70 families living at Sung Village and the majority are Dzao ‘Tien’ people. Farming and forest plantations are their main source of income. Enjoy lunch at your homestay then take an introductory walk around the village. After getting to know the village better, take a short trek (approximately two kilometres) to the alluring Sung Cave and visit a 100-year-old tea plantation. The trek has some steep and slippery sections so make sure you’ve packed suitable footwear for this activity. After a local handicraft workshop, return to your homestay accommodation for a nice hot shower and a delicious dinner.

Included Activities:
-Da Bac - Homestay and activities
-Da Bac - Sung Cave hike

Day 22: Hanoi

Location: Hanoi

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

This morning, take the opportunity to encounter more of the Vietnamese highlands on a 10-kilometre (6.2 mi) trek from Sung Village to Da Bia. Trek along well-worn buffalo tracks before gradually inclining. There are some serious steps to climb, but the walk will be at a steady and relaxed pace. Keep an eye out for the monumental stone at the peak of Da Bia Mountain during the hike while you walk through local villages, meeting people from the Muong tribe. Stop for lunch at Da Bia before enjoying a scenic 1.5-hour boat cruise on Hoa Binh hydropower reservoir. Arrive at Thung Nai then board a bus transfer to Hanoi (approximately 2 hours). On the way, visit Vun Art center first, a social enterprise that employs people with disabilities to make art pieces with recycled silk scraps. Then head back to your hotel. This evening is free for you to explore this delightful city. Why not relax with a bia hoi (freshly brewed draught beer) at one of the microbars in the Old Quarter?

Included Activities:
-Da Bac - Sung village to Da Bia hike
-Da Bac - Hoa Binh Reservoir Cruise
-Da Bia - Muong Tribe Lunch
-Hanoi - Vun Art center visit

Day 23: Cat Ba Island

Location: Cat Ba Island

Accommodation: Hotel

This morning you'll travel by bus and ferry to beautiful Cat Ba Island before midday. There's no time to waste, so begin exploring the stunning waters of Lan Ha Bay around Cat Ba. Located in the greater Halong Bay area, Lan Ha Bay is one of Vietnam’s most scenic places, where limestone islands and caves rise from the emerald waters. You’ll have a free afternoon to explore at your own pace, so perhaps get active on a hike, or just enjoy a dip at one of the beaches. Have a relaxing evening on Cat Ba Island.

Day 24: Cat Ba Island

Location: Cat Ba Island

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: lunch

This morning, head out on the water from Cat Ba and continue exploring the limestone karst scenery. Take a boat around Lan Ha Bay with an included lunch while you cruise, then get up close and personal with this striking landscape by kayak. There’s the option to have a net on the side of your kayak and help out the locals’ clean-up efforts. This initiative hopes to eliminate the rising amounts of plastic waste in the bay. Lan Ha and Halong Bay are on many travellers' bucket lists, and with two days in the area you’ll get to tick them off yours.

Included Activities:
-Cat Ba Island - Kayaking
-Cat Ba Island - Boat trip on Lan Ha Bay
-Cat Ba Island - Lan Ha Bay Lunch

Day 25: Hanoi

Location: Hanoi

Accommodation: Hotel

Rise and shine! Perhaps start your morning with a refreshing swim or a Vietnamese coffee (or both). Make sure you soak up as much sun and sand as possible, because this afternoon it's back to Hanoi by ferry and bus. Tonight you may want to head out for an optional dinner with your fellow travellers, sharing some memories and laughs over a local meal and beer.

Day 26: Hanoi

Location: Hanoi

There are no activities planned for today and you’re able to depart the accommodation at any time after check-out. With so much to see and do in Hanoi, we recommend that you spend an extra day or two here, and we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).

What's Included

  • Cat Ba Island - Lan Ha Bay Lunch

  • Siem Reap - Angkor Temples Guided Tour

  • Siem Reap - One day Angkor Pass

  • Chambok - Traditional dancing

  • Chambok - Homestay and activities

  • Chambok - Khmer Dinner

  • Phnom Penh - Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21)

  • Mekong Delta - Boat Cruise and Homestay

  • Phnom Penh - Killing Fields of Choeung Ek

  • Mekong Delta - Boat Cruise Lunch

show more

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

  • Airport Transfers at Destination

Included Activities

  • Siem Reap - One day Angkor Pass
  • Siem Reap - Angkor Temples Guided Tour
  • Chambok - Traditional dancing
  • Chambok - Homestay and activities
  • Chambok - Khmer Dinner
  • Phnom Penh - Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21)
  • Phnom Penh - Killing Fields of Choeung Ek
  • Mekong Delta - Boat Cruise and Homestay
  • Mekong Delta - Boat Cruise Lunch
  • Hoi An - Old Town walking tour
  • Hoi An - Countryside bicycle hire
  • Hanoi - Old Quarter Walking Tour
  • Da Bac - Homestay and activities
  • Da Bac - Sung Cave hike
  • Da Bac - Sung village to Da Bia hike
  • Da Bac - Hoa Binh Reservoir Cruise
  • Da Bia - Muong Tribe Lunch
  • Cat Ba Island - Kayaking
  • Cat Ba Island - Boat trip on Lan Ha Bay
  • Cat Ba Island - Lan Ha Bay Lunch

Accommodation

  • HOTELS:
  • Most of the accommodation on this trip is in hotels (mostly 2 to 3-star). Facilities are often basic, with some properties not having a continuous supply of hot water on occasion. All rooms are either fan cooled or with air conditioning and twin share with private facilities unless stated otherwise in the daily itinerary. Double beds are not widely available in South East Asia.
  • WINDOWLESS ROOMS:
  • Some hotels in South East Asia have windowless rooms, or windows that don't necessarily have a view. This is often due to high population density in large cities, however local building standards also do not require rooms to have windows. We do request rooms with windows, however they aren't always available.
  • DAY ROOMS & EARLY CHECK IN:
  • Please note in some destinations we will provide use of day rooms. These rooms are provided for shared group use before or after overnight train journeys. We have some days where we arrive at our destination before check in time and a day room is not included. If you have booked a Single Supplement for your trip, it will not apply to these day rooms. Your leader may be able to assist you in booking a room for your sole use (depending on availability) until our regular trip rooms become available for an additional charge. Please talk to your leader at the Welcome Meeting if this is a service you would like to request.

Transport

  • OVERNIGHT SLEEPER TRAINS IN VIETNAM:
  • Compartments will be 4 berth to 6 berth depending on seasonal variations and the group configuration. We aim to secure 4 berth compartments where possible. A sheet, pillow and blanket are provided, although some travellers prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet. Passengers of different genders may be required to share a compartment and there will be occasions where you'll be sharing with local travellers or travellers who are not part of your group. On occasion the group may be split between several carriages, however your leader will coordinate and give further information on the trip.

Important Information

  • 1. Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport) for train tickets. Ticketing fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket.
  • 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Days 6, 13 & 21 (Homestays) and Days 14 & 19 (Overnight trains) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. Day use rooms are also excluded.

Mode of Transport

  • OVERNIGHT SLEEPER TRAINS IN VIETNAM:
  • Compartments will be 4 berth to 6 berth depending on seasonal variations and the group configuration. We aim to secure 4 berth compartments where possible. A sheet, pillow and blanket are provided, although some travellers prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet. Passengers of different genders may be required to share a compartment and there will be occasions where you'll be sharing with local travellers or travellers who are not part of your group. On occasion the group may be split between several carriages, however your leader will coordinate and give further information on the trip.

Check out our Q&As

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes

  • Is this trip right for you

    Lots of time allocated for optional activities means freedom and flexibility, but it does require a level of independence. Only a few meals are included, so mostly you'll find your own (with plenty of suggestions from your leader of course) – a great way to mingle with locals and discover unexpected delights!

    This trip involves a lot of public transport and some long days of driving, so some patience will go a long way towards your enjoyment here. Sit back, relax, watch the scenery go by, and embrace travelling like a local. You’ll cover a lot of distance on this trip, including on overnight trains. Amenities are shared and basic, but the experience of rubbing shoulders with the locals makes it all worthwhile. For more about what this experience is like, see our blog post here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/what-to-expect-on-an-overnight.

    You'll be spending three nights with local families on this trip. While the accommodation is shared and basic, this is a great opportunity to connect with the local people, and enjoy some delicious home-cooked meals! Read more about the experiences here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/community-based-tourism-vietnam/

    You will need a moderate level of fitness to take part in some experiences on this trip. Your visit to Hoi An includes a bicycle tour of the surrounding countryside. Plus, there's kayak activity included in Lin Ha Bay.

    You will visit a number of temples on this trip, and this requires modest clothing. Be sure to bring clothes that cover the arms and pants or skirts that go past the knees. A light scarf is also a good idea for covering shoulders and arms when it’s hot.

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    Yes if aged 15+ and accompanied by an adult

  • Are all entrance fees included in the price?

    Yes, except optional activities

  • Are international flights included in this tour?

    No

  • Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?

    No

  • Are airport transfers included in this tour?

    No

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

Nicole  

North American Adventure

12-Oct-2021

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

Cambodia Discovery

22-Jan-2024

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

Merouane Harkat   Uk

Explore Southern Africa

08-Mar-2024

Best trip ever was, 2 things I didn't like the black mamba stop was wasting day and village ,so 2 night I think was just wasting, I could do 2 days in Kruger, and one more night in delta

Alan Perrott (Google Reviewer)  

We had a fantastic time...

13-Aug-2024

We had a fantastic time on the Botswana Highlights tour recently. We chose Intrepid because it seemed to suit what we wanted - well planned itinerary, small group, comfortable without being overly luxurious (and pricey), and supportive of the local community and environment. We weren't disappointed, and as we met with other like-minded travellers then we all had a great time. We are already planning our next Intrepid tour - maybe Vietnam & Cambodia :-)

1 Select your preferred date

Monday - Friday

Oct 28, 2024 - Nov 22, 2024
$2370 $2069

Operator discount: -$237

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$64

Monday - Friday

Nov 11, 2024 - Dec 06, 2024
$2510 $2435

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$75

Monday - Friday

Nov 18, 2024 - Dec 13, 2024
$2460 $2028

Operator discount: -$369

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$63

Monday - Friday

Nov 25, 2024 - Dec 20, 2024
$2435 $1771

Operator discount: -$609

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$55

Monday - Friday

Dec 09, 2024 - Jan 03, 2025
$2535 $2459

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$76

Monday - Friday

Dec 16, 2024 - Jan 10, 2025
$2485 $2410

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$75

Monday - Friday

Dec 23, 2024 - Jan 17, 2025
$2535 $2459

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$76

Monday - Friday

Jan 06, 2025 - Jan 31, 2025
$2480 $2406

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$74

Monday - Friday

Feb 10, 2025 - Mar 07, 2025
$2410 $2338

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$72

Monday - Friday

Feb 24, 2025 - Mar 21, 2025
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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$72

Monday - Friday

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$2505 $2430

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$75

Monday - Friday

Apr 14, 2025 - May 09, 2025
$2480 $2406

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$74

Monday - Friday

Apr 28, 2025 - May 23, 2025
$2385 $2313

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$72

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$2295 $2226

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$69

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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$69

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$2295 $2226

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$69

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$2295 $2226

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$69

Monday - Friday

Oct 13, 2025 - Nov 07, 2025
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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$69

Monday - Friday

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$2295 $2226

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$69

Monday - Friday

Nov 10, 2025 - Dec 05, 2025
$2385 $2313

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$72

Monday - Friday

Nov 24, 2025 - Dec 19, 2025
$2385 $2313

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$72

Monday - Friday

Dec 08, 2025 - Jan 02, 2026
$2385 $2313

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$72

Monday - Friday

Dec 15, 2025 - Jan 09, 2026
$2480 $2406

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$74

Monday - Friday

Dec 22, 2025 - Jan 16, 2026
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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$74

Monday - Friday

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$2605 $2527

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$78

Monday - Friday

Jan 26, 2026 - Feb 20, 2026
$2605 $2527

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$78

Monday - Friday

Feb 09, 2026 - Mar 06, 2026
$2505 $2430

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$75

Monday - Friday

Feb 23, 2026 - Mar 20, 2026
$2505 $2430

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$75

Monday - Friday

Mar 16, 2026 - Apr 10, 2026
$2605 $2527

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$78

Monday - Friday

Apr 13, 2026 - May 08, 2026
$2605 $2527

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$78

Monday - Friday

Apr 27, 2026 - May 22, 2026
$2505 $2430

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$75

Monday - Friday

Jun 22, 2026 - Jul 17, 2026
$2410 $2338

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$72

Monday - Friday

Jul 13, 2026 - Aug 07, 2026
$2410 $2338

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$72

Monday - Friday

Aug 24, 2026 - Sep 18, 2026
$2410 $2338

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$72

Monday - Friday

Sep 14, 2026 - Oct 09, 2026
$2410 $2338

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$72

Monday - Friday

Nov 09, 2026 - Dec 04, 2026
$2505 $2430

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$75

Monday - Friday

Nov 23, 2026 - Dec 18, 2026
$2505 $2430

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$75

Monday - Friday

Dec 07, 2026 - Jan 01, 2027
$2605 $2527

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$78

Monday - Friday

Dec 14, 2026 - Jan 08, 2027
$2605 $2527

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$78

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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