Overview
Gold-leafed pagodas glinting in the sun, young monks in saffron robes, women carrying goods to market by yoke basket—the visual images of Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia are striking. In Luang Prabang, Laos’ romantic temple town, we boat along the Mekong and meet hill villagers. In Vietnam, we take a bicycle rickshaw through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, overnight on a private boat in Bai Tu Long Bay, stroll the lantern-lit lanes of Hoi An, and marvel at the palaces of the Nguyen emperors in Hue. Our final treat is Angkor, Cambodia’s surreal “lost city,” where the stone towers of a medieval metropolis rise out of a subtropical forest. Our incredible Trip Leaders ensure an unforgettable cultural immersion in these ancient lands.
An incredible variety of activities was packed into the trip, yet we never felt rushed. It would be impossible to do what we did in the same period of time without the expertise of WT guides.
— Kay M., Cle Elum, WA
Itinerary at a Glance
Days 1-4
Luang Prabang, Laos
Luang Prabang is a tranquil oasis of golden temples, colonial-era villas, and frangipani trees along the winding Mekong River. We visit its 15th century pagodas and boat along the Mekong River to a Buddhist pilgrimage site. At sunrise one morning, we’ll “make merit” by giving alms to the monks.
Days 5-7
Hanoi, Vietnam / Bai Tu Long Bay
We’ll explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter by cyclo (bicycle rickshaw) and on foot, then head to Bai Tu Long Bay, where our private “junk” (traditional boat) brings us into a stunning UNESCO-listed landscape of sheer limestone islands.
Days 8-12
Hoi An / Hue / Saigon
We walk the riverside lanes of Hoi An, and in Hue, see the elaborate tombs of the Nguyen emperors. In Saigon, we visit the historic Reunification Palace, forever associated with the Fall of Saigon in 1975.
Days 13-16
Siem Reap, Cambodia / Temples of Angkor
Angkor is a breathtaking expression of the glory of the Khmer Empire. We plan our visits for the least crowded times as we explore iconic temples including Ta Prohm, where huge banyan trees have grown through the walls. Depart on Day 16 via Siem Reap.
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Adventures in Indochine
With your private guide, explore charming Hanoi, experience surreal Halong Bay with an overnight aboard your own private boat, visit picturesque Hoi An and the royal city of Hue, with a grand finale at exquisite Angkor Wat.