Vietnam and Cambodia Private Journey

The intriguing world of Indochine beckons with centuries of fascinating history and culture. On this Private Journey, begin in charming Hanoi, whose Old Quarter has been the city’s heart since the 15th century, then encounter the surreal beauty of Halong Bay by sea kayak, with an overnight aboard your own private sailing junk. Heading along the magnificent coast of the South China Sea, with a stop at China Beach, where American soldiers spent “R&R” during the Vietnam War, explore  picturesque riverside town of Hoi An, with an option for bicycling along lovely country lanes. After visiting the royal city of Hue, you grand finale is a private guided visit to Cambodia’s exquisite Angkor Wat, an ancient temple city lost in the jungle. We offer a pre-trip extension to Laos to explore the vibrant ancient town of Luang Prabang, a World Heritage Site of shimmering royal temples and fascinating hilltribe markets; a pre-trip extension to Sapa, the best place to see Vietnam’s fascinating traditional hilltribes; and a mid-trip extension to the peaceful green Mekong Delta.

Itinerary at a Glance

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Days 1-2
Ancient Hanoi

This charming, thousand-year-old city is graced by leafy boulevards, lakes, and stately French colonial buildings. The Old Quarter, the heart of Hanoi since the 15th century, is an incredible warren of winding streets and magnificent architecture. Explore on foot and by traditional cyclo-rickshaw with your private guide.

Days 3-5
Kayaking Halong Bay

The World Heritage Site of Halong Bay is a magical setting of thousands of sheer limestone islands soaring out of a jade-green sea. Its calm waters offer fantastic sea kayaking amid sea grottoes, hidden lakes, and deserted coves with white-sand beaches. No prior kayaking experience is necessary, and your group can kayak as much or as little as you like. Your kayaking guide can lead you to intriguing spots including Three Peach Island, a wonderful place for a swim. Accommodation is on your own private sailing junk, staffed by a crew of three and a private chef. Return to Hanoi on Day 5.

Days 6-7
Traditional Hoi An

Enjoy a vivid sense of history as you walk the narrow streets of picturesque Hoi An, a trading port from the 15th to 19th centuries. Optional biking with your guide offers a delightful exploration of nearby My Son, an evocative Cham archaeological site.

Days 8-10
Royal City of Hue and Saigon

In Hue, Vietnam’s cultural and religious capital, explore the Royal Tombs, Imperial Citadel, and journey by boat on the Perfume River to the seven-story Thien Mu Pagoda. Biking options include a ride along the Tam Giang Lagoon, and through Hue’s historic back streets. On Day 10, explore vibrant Saigon.

Days 11-13
Angkor, City of Temples

Covered with intricate bas-reliefs and scattered across a tropical landscape, Cambodia’s royal city of Angkor is one of the most awe-inspiring sites in the world, and a lasting testament to the glory of a bygone Khmer civilization. Explore this architectural masterpiece of breathtaking temples and serene man-made lakes, and enjoy a sunset climb up Phnom Bakheng for spectacular views. Depart on Day 13.

For a more complete description, Download Full Detailed Itinerary

What the Trip is Like

This trip is rated Level 2, easy to moderate. It is designed to offer an enjoyable, active vacation. You need not have done any previous sea kayaking. Kayaking routes last from one to three hours, depending on your interest, and are largely protected from high winds and strong currents. The bicycling routes are optional; they are on relatively flat terrain and you will always have a support van along to offer a cool, refreshing drink.

Explanation of Trip Levels