Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia Explorer 24 days

Morning

Upon arrival at Luang Prabang Airport, you will be greeted by a guide who will assist you in transferring to your hotel for check-in and relaxation. This is a great way to settle in and prepare for the day's activities.

The city tour starts with a visit to Wat Xieng Thong, a magnificent temple that holds significant historical and cultural importance in Luang Prabang. You'll have the chance to explore the temple's intricate architecture and learn about its history.

Afternoon

After a break, let’s climb up to the top of Mount Phousi. This hill is home to a sacred, gilded stupa and offers a panoramic view of the city. The climb will be rewarding as you'll witness a breathtaking sunset from this vantage point.

The next activity involves participating in a private Baci Ceremony at a local family's home. This traditional Lao ritual is deeply spiritual and holds cultural significance. It's a way for the Lao people to express their spirituality and connect with their cultural heritage.

Following the ceremony, you'll have the unique chance to have dinner with the host family. This will give you an authentic experience of local life and culture, allowing you to interact with the family members and learn about their way of life.

You'll be spending the night in Luang Prabang, which will likely provide an immersive experience in the local atmosphere.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Royal Palace Museum. This museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts that provide insights into Laos' royal history and cultural heritage.

Next, you'll head to the Traditional Arts & Ethnology Center (TAEC). This center is dedicated to showcasing the diversity of Lao ethnic groups and their traditional arts. It's a great opportunity to learn about the different lifestyles, traditions, and crafts of these groups.

Then, you'll have the chance to participate in seminars that delve into the topic of "Ethnic Diversity and Cultural Change in Laos." These seminars will offer you a deeper understanding of the cultural dynamics in the country and how they have evolved over time. You'll also get to examine unique artifacts that are part of the collection.

Lunch at a local restaurant.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, you'll venture outside the city to visit Ban Xang Khong and Thai Lue village which is renowned for its arts and crafts. It's a wonderful opportunity to witness the traditional craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations.

Also, you'll have the chance to learn the process of making Saa paper, a special handmade paper derived from the mulberry tree. This paper-making technique is an integral part of Lao culture.

Following that, it’s time to acquire some hands-on experience creating products from the Saa paper. Whether it's lanterns, handbags, or books, you'll get to make your own creations to take home as souvenirs.

As part of the experience, you'll also visit traditional textile looms, giving you insight into the art of weaving, and explore the nearby village of Ban Xienglek.

In the late afternoon, your day will conclude with a transfer back to your hotel, and have a nice rest here. 

Morning

Rise and shine! Your day begins with a transfer to Ock Pop Tock's Living Crafts Centre, located along the scenic banks of the Mekong River. This new day offers you a unique opportunity to observe women working under their stilted houses on traditional looms. This is a firsthand look at the intricate process of weaving that has been passed down through generations.

Following that, join a Natural Dyes Class. This is a chance to learn the secrets of preparing natural dyes, which have been used for centuries to color fabrics. By the end of the morning, you'll have three dyed silk skeins to take home as souvenirs. It's a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the traditional dyeing techniques of Laos.

It’s lunchtime. Treat yourself to various delicious Lao dishes at Ock Pop Tock's Silk Road Café. As you dine, you'll be able to enjoy views of the majestic Mekong River, creating a picturesque setting for your meal.

Afternoon

Continue your cultural exploration by trying your hand at weaving. A traditional loom will be provided to you and don’t worry because the expert weavers will guide you through the process, helping you master the art of weaving. This hands-on experience will give you a deeper appreciation for the skill and patience required to create intricate textiles.

As part of your visit, you'll also have the chance to browse the on-site shop. This is a great opportunity to buy some mementos of your time in Luang Prabang.

After a fulfilling day of weaving and exploration, your guide and driver will return you to your hotel in the late afternoon.

Morning

Wake up early to participate in the unique daily morning rituals called Tak Bat: Alms Giving, in which saffron-clad monks collect offerings of Alms (ubiquitous sticky rice) from the faithful residents. After that, let’s get ready for these exciting activities. 

Take a short visit to the morning local market near the Royal Palace. This is promised to be a golden opportunity for you to get a real flavor of the local culture.

Board a cruise upstream on the Mekong River, which gives you a panoramic view of the tranquil countryside. 

Visit the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, and marvel at two linked caves crammed with thousands of stunning gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by pilgrims. 

Stop at the village of Ban Xanghai, where the local rice wine is produced. It’s a great time for you to gain profound insights into traditional winemaking methods. 

Afternoon

On our way back, we pass the local villages at Ban Chan, well-known in the region for its meticulous pottery making and amazing ancestral methods transferred from one generation to another. Please feel free to support them by buying a little figurine. (at your own expense). 

We then walk to the nearby Chanthavinh Resort, where we will spend a peaceful night in Luang Prabang. 

Morning

After enjoying your time at the resort, you'll be preparing to leave Luang Prabang. You'll then catch a flight to Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam.

Explore the beauty of Hanoi

Afternoon

Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, your tour guide and driver will be ready to pick you up. They will transfer you to the city center, where you'll check in to your hotel.

NOTE:

• Be presented at Pole No.10 (Outside the Terminal Gate), so we can easily find you in the busy airport. In case you can not find the tour guide, please get in touch with your travel consultant.
• The check-in hour is 14:00. You will be able to have an early check-in with an additional charge. Please contact your travel consultant to book the service. 

Half-day Hanoi city tour (by car or motorbike – upon client's interest) - Routes can change subject to the client's interest

Morning

At 8:00, please assemble in the lobby of the hotel to meet our tour guide and listen to an introduction. After that, let’s embark on an insightful and exciting journey. 

Start your city tour by exploring the Vietnam First University, also called the Temple of Literature, and take pictures there. During the Ly dynasty, this temple was a symbol of Confucius. It is the birthplace of many outstanding individuals in Vietnam across many generations and a testament to the history of Hanoi's capital.

Afterward, you’ll have a chance to learn more about our esteemed leader, President Ho Chi Minh, by paying a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, his house-on-stilts, and the Presidential Palace.  

NOTE: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is closed for restoration on Mondays and Fridays each week, as well as annually from mid-June to mid-August.

Along the way, stop by and see the unique One Pillar Pagoda, erected on a single wooden pole. It is the pinnacle architectural masterpiece, filled with national cultural quintessence through the arts of design, sculpture, woodcarving, and painting.

Head to West Lake, which is one of Hanoi's largest and most scenic lakes, surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful landscapes, and visit Tran Quoc Pagoda. Being built 1500 years ago, Tran Quoc Pagoda has the finest location here - right on the West Lake and it is one of the most important Buddhist constructions in Vietnam.

Following your morning activities, you'll experience lunch at an authentic Vietnamese restaurant with several traditional dishes that showcase the unique tastes of Vietnam.

Afternoon

Ask your tour guide to take you to your hotel to take a short rest before gathering at 20:00 and then transferring to the Hanoi train station. At approximately 21:15, it’s time to embark on an overnight trip to Lao Cai in shared sleeping compartments (sharing with other passengers in 2 lower & 2 upper berths per compartment)

NOTE: 

• Our tour guide will not accompany you during the train trip
• The train schedule is subject to change in case there is any unexpected problem. 
• A cabin serves four passengers but you can also request private compartments with a surcharge. 
• Restrooms at either end of the carriages complete the local experience.

Morning

You will arrive at Lao Cai Train Station between 5:30 and 6:00 in the morning.

Upon arrival, you'll be picked up and transferred to Sapa by a tourist-shared bus. If you arrive early, there might be an option for early check-in, subject to room availability and with a possible surcharge.

At around 9:00, the tour guide will take you on a journey to visit two villages, Lao Chai and Ta Van, inhabited by the Hmong and Dzay ethnic groups. These villages offer insights into the daily lives, customs, and traditions of these local communities. It’s a golden opportunity for you to interact with the villagers and learn about their way of life.

Afternoon

During lunchtime, you'll have the unique chance to dine with a local family. This provides an intimate experience to not only enjoy a meal but also learn about the local house architecture and the distinct customs of the community. It's a fantastic way to gain deeper insights into their culture.

After your meal, continue your trek through the villages. Your journey will lead you through the picturesque landscapes of the region, showcasing the stunning natural beauty that Sapa is known for.

Your trekking adventure will conclude at the end of the village. From there, the bus will pick you up and take you back to Sapa town.

Morning

You'll start your morning with breakfast at your hotel or homestay, getting ready for another day of exploration.

Your first destination is Cat Cat Village, inhabited by the Black Hmong people.  Pleasantly immerse yourself in the local culture and witness the daily lives of the villagers. The village visit offers the opportunity to sightsee a waterfall, visit the hydroelectric power station built by the French, and observe the local houses and handicraft products that are an integral part of the community.

After exploring Cat Cat village, return to Sapa town and have lunch at a nice restaurant.

Cat Cat village of Black Hmong people

Afternoon

Enjoy the freedom to explore Sapa town at your own pace. This is a great opportunity to explore the town's shops, markets, and landmarks, and dive into the local atmosphere. 

Later in the afternoon, you'll transfer back to Hanoi by shuttle bus. You'll arrive in Hanoi in the evening, concluding your Sapa adventure. 

Morning

The day unfolds with anticipation as you're whisked away from your hotel in Hanoi at 7:30 - 8:00. The road to Ninh Binh holds promises of discovery and wonder.

Tourists visit ancient Ninh Binh together

When reaching the destination, Your first stop is the hallowed grounds of Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, where the echoes of history come alive. Explore two temples that pay homage to the mighty kings of yore, Dinh Bo Linh and Le Hoan. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of their legacies and the stories that shaped the land.

Your journey then takes you to Tam Coc Wharf, where a feast of flavors awaits. Indulge in the renowned specialties of the Ancient Capital area, a culinary adventure that tantalizes your taste buds.

Afternoon

Brace yourself for an unforgettable aquatic escapade as you step onto a boat for a 2-hour trip through Ninh Binh's breathtaking landscape. The three caves, Hang Ca (First Cave), Hang Hai (Second Cave), and Hang Ba (Third Cave), will unveil their secrets as you glide through their mystical chambers. Nature's artwork surrounds you, leaving you in awe.

But the magic doesn't end there. Saddle up for an hour of cycling, as you traverse the verdant countryside en route to Bich Dong. Alongside lush paddy fields, majestic mountains, and tranquil rivers, you'll discover a world that seems straight out of a fairy tale.

As the sun begins its descent, you'll board the bus getting back to Hanoi, leaving behind Ninh Binh's enchanting embrace. But fear not, for the memories of this day will stay with you, etched in your heart and mind.

Morning

Your adventure begins at 8:00 with a pickup from your hotel lobby. As you embark on the road to Halong City. 

Around 11:30  - 12:00, you’ll arrive at the pier. Check-in procedures will be conducted in the lounge upon arrival. While you wait for the departure time to board the boat, pastries and several types of tea are available for you to relish. 

Here, a realm of wonder awaits as you step onto the boat that will be your vessel for the day. Setting sail amidst limestone cliffs that touch the sky and waters that shimmer like emerald gems, you'll feel the magic of Halong Bay enveloping you.

As you cruise along, a sumptuous lunch is served, allowing you to savor each bite while the mesmerizing landscapes unfold before your eyes. The boat navigates through a symphony of impressive rock formations, each bearing whimsical names and unique shapes—a testament to nature's artistic prowess.

Afternoon

The afternoon unfolds like a dream as you delve deeper into the heart of Halong Bay's mysteries. The itinerary is a canvas waiting to be painted with moments of discovery.

Depending on each cruise's itinerary of the day, the journey might lead you to visit different stunning caves, do kayaking between majestic views, and immerse yourself in untouched beaches with emerald waters. 

As the sun begins its descent, back aboard the cruise, you can unwind on the terrace, look for the setting sun, and partake in the Happy Hour program from 18:30 - 19:30, where you can buy one drink and get another free. Otherwise, you can have fun participating in a cookery class hosted by an experienced chef. 

Evening

Indulge in a gourmet dinner at the restaurant, adding another layer of enjoyment to your experience.

It’s also free time for you to freely take part in nightlife activities such as watching a documentary film, singing karaoke, engaging in exciting board games, or trying freshly caught squid. 

NOTE: Our tour guide will not accompany you aboard the cruise in Halong Bay. A resident English-speaking guide on board is available.

Morning

Welcome a new day with the Tai Chi session on the sundeck to refresh your body and mind after being busy on the first day.

Afterward, fulfill your energy with a light buffet breakfast with delectable starters, appetizers with a selection, and various beverages. 

Depending on the day's agenda for each cruise, the voyage may take you to remote villages, and several breathtaking caverns. You also have the opportunity to take part in several exciting activities such as kayaking, swimming, … before returning to the cruise for checking out at 9:30 - 10:00. 

As you start cruising back to the harbor, a delightful brunch will be well-served. 

Afternoon

After disembarking, at 11:30, you'll be transferred by car to the airport in Hanoi, where a flight to Hue awaits. The sky becomes your bridge to a new destination.

After 1 hour and 20 minutes, upon arrival at Hue Airport, make your way to the hotel by car, where comfort and relaxation await.

The rest of the day is yours to indulge in leisure. Whether you choose to unwind by the pool, explore the hotel's surroundings, or simply savor the sense of freedom, the afternoon is a canvas for you to paint with your desires.

Morning

You will be picked up from your hotel at 8:00 - 8:30 and start your city exploration which offers you an opportunity to discover the best of Hue, from ancient royal architecture to bustling local life.

Visit Thien Mu Pagoda - a famous Buddhism attraction located at the bank of the alluring Perfume River

Discover one of the remaining Hue Monuments Complex - Imperial Citadel, which has been recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site since 1993

Get closer to the locals at Dong Ba Market, where you can buy souvenirs and experience the bargaining skills like a local

End of the half day at 12:00 - 12:30, the driver will drop you off at your hotel, and the rest of the day is yours.  

Afternoon

BestPrice’s Recommendation: For those who are fascinated by diverse Vietnamese cuisine, please consider our Hue Night Culinary Tour (From US $48/pax). Starting at 18:00, you can join an interesting itinerary to sample Hue specialties and take a cyclo ride, which makes your journey more memorable. 

Morning

The morning sun heralds a new adventure as you prepare to depart from Hue to the charming town of Hoi An. Your mode of transport is a shuttle bus that promises a scenic ride through the Vietnamese countryside.

Along the way, the journey is punctuated with opportunities for short breaks at captivating sightseeing spots. These stops invite you to stretch your legs, soak in the sights, and perhaps capture some snapshots of the landscapes that unfold before you. (Please note that admission fees are not included for these sightseeing spots.)

Your journey reaches its destination as you arrive at the hotel in Hoi An. The check-in process ushers you into a haven of comfort, where relaxation and tranquility await.

Afternoon/Evening

The rest of the day is yours to embrace. If you want to make the most of your time in Hoi An, you can take these suggestions into consideration: 

Morning/ Afternoon

Get ready for the walking tour today. Our guide will take you to the highlight spots in Hoi An Ancient Town. There are a lot of activities for you to explore in a half day.

Visit ancient houses and famous sites with special architecture, such as Fujian Assembly Hall & Japanese Covered Bridge

Observe the daily local life and adorable yellow-painted buildings by the scenic river

Stop at a handicraft store where you can see how to create unique traditional handmade products and purchase some to take home as mementos.

Sip on a cup of the well-known herbal beverage "Mot" to keep your body cool and fresh after the walk

After the sightseeing trip is over, your guide will bid you farewell and give you some free time to explore the town on your own.

NOTE: The morning or afternoon departure depends on availability and preference.

Morning

After breakfast, say goodbye to Hue, we will depart for another bustling city. You will be picked up and transferred to Da Nang Airport and get on a 1.5-hour flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, our driver will wait for you at Pole No.10 and transfer you to your hotel in the city center. 

Afternoon & Evening

After check-in, you can take a nap or freely explore the city. A local tip for you! Skip the afternoon heat and go out after 17:00. It’s chilly time to enjoy the breeze weather in Saigon.

Here are some suggestions for your night out with BestPrice Travel.

Morning

8:00 - 8:30: A driver will pick you up to you embark on a city tour of Ho Chi Minh City. Each step becomes a window into the city's vibrant past and dynamic development. Here are places we might visit: 

• Reunification Palace: A former residence and working place of the President of the Republic of Vietnam, and on April 30, 1975, this place marked the Reunification Day of Vietnam. 
• Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral: It is not only a symbol of Catholicism in Vietnam, but also one of Ho Chi Minh City's most distinctive architectural creations. 
• Saigon Post Office: One of Ho Chi Minh City's classic colonial architectural structures. This is a building designed by the French between 1886 and 1891 that combines Western and Eastern elements. 
• War Remnants Museum: A member of the Museums for World Peace, archives almost 20,000 papers, objects, and films about proof of atrocities and the repercussions of conflicts inflicted by invading troops in Vietnam.

Lastly, wander around a local market - a must-see spot for tourists to experience the vibrant culture of Vietnam before returning to your hotel and relaxing for the rest of the day. 

NOTE:  Notre Dame Cathedral is anticipated to be under restoration until the year 2027. Therefore, unfortunately, tourists cannot relish the panorama view of the cathedral. 

Morning

After a delicious breakfast, at 8:00 - 8:30, depart Ho Chi Minh City for an exciting experience to the Mekong Delta at Cai Be tourist dock. There will be many great activities ahead: 

• Sail down the Cai Be River and take in the gorgeous green riverbanks and local life
• Visit and savor delicious delicacies in traditional craft villages: rice paper, coconut candy, dried longan, and more
• Try the delightful honey tea and learn about how the locals make use of the abundance of fruit orchards and modern beekeeping techniques
• Cruise upstream to the blustery Tien River and visit Tan Phong Island which has a lot of luscious fruit gardens
• Spend around 10 minutes exploring the fruit garden after getting in a rowing boat and traveling to the small canal

Continue your river ride along the Tien, then disembark for lunch at a garden home. 

Afternoon 

Get to Vinh Long Wharf, where you end the tour and get picked up and travel to Can Tho called “the Western Capital” due to its ideal location. 

Upon your arrival at your hotel in Can Tho City, initiate the check-in process and spend time relaxing and recharging your batteries, taking in the tranquil ambiance that pervades the air.

Afterward, venture out to the vibrant floating markets nearby to get a true sense of the local life. 

Morning

At 7:30, you will be picked up and then travel to the pier to board a wooden boat to Cai Rang floating market. It might take you around 20 minutes to reach the spot. 

This is one of the major wholesale floating markets in the Mekong Delta. As a result, you can experience more colorful hundreds of things ranging from fruits and vegetables to cosmetics, clothing, mobile cards, and gasoline... Take your time seeing the local life on the river and getting a good sense of the unique ambiance here. 

Don't forget to stop by a noodle workshop, eat the local delicacy, and try fresh local fruits on the way back to round up your tour. 

As the day draws to a close, you'll disembark at Ninh Kieu, the gateway to Can Tho. A satisfying lunch in Can Tho provides a final taste of the region's flavors before you begin your journey back to Ho Chi Minh City.

Afternoon 

After arriving in Ho Chi Minh City, embrace the freedom to relax and chill out at your leisure. 

Morning

The day begins with a transfer to the Ho Chi Minh City airport, where you'll catch a flight to Phnom Penh. 

Upon landing at Phnom Penh Airport, head to the hotel for the check-in process. 

Afternoon & Evening

The afternoon invites you to unwind and explore at your own pace. With free time at leisure, you have the freedom to immerse yourself in the ambiance of Phnom Penh. 

Your evening unfolds with a dinner that promises to be a culinary delight. You'll dine at one of the best restaurants in town, where authentic Cambodian flavors take center stage. The restaurant becomes your stage for a sensory journey through Cambodia's culinary treasures.

Morning

Begin your tour at Cambodia's Royal Palace, which stands majestically in the city center just off the riverfront area. Several buildings are open to visitors including the Silver Pagoda" whose floor is lined with solid silver tiles. 

The next stop is Silver Pagoda (The Emerald Buddha temple) which displays plenty of Buddha statues that were decorated and made of diamond, emerald, gold, and silver.

At the north end of the city is the hilltop pagoda of Wat Phnom, for which the capital was named. Climb the stairs to the top of the hill for fabulous views of the city below.

Afternoon

Transfer to Phnom Penh airport to take a flight to Siem Reap

Upon your arrival in Siem Reap, a car will be ready to pick you up at the airport and seamlessly transfer you to your hotel for a smooth check-in process. 

Evening

Enjoy dinner at Angkor Village Theater, where you will experience delicious Cambodia Food while watching a live Apsara Dance performance.

Morning

The adventure begins as you embark on an elephant ride from the South Gate of Angkor Thom, transporting you into the heart of the jungle. The rhythmic footsteps of these majestic creatures create a sense of timelessness—a journey echoing the past and present. 

Your exploration takes you to the renowned Bayon Temple,  unique for its 54 towers decorated with over 200 smiling faces of Avalokitesvara, the Phimeanakas, the Royal Enclosure, the Elephants Terrace, and the Terrace of the Leper King.

Then, visit the fabulous Ta Prohm Temple embraced by the roots of enormous fig trees and gigantic creepers. You will have a chance to witness the last and most enduring capital city of the Khmer Empire, with the ethereal beauty of nature and ancient architecture.

During lunchtime, savor a delicious meal at a local restaurant. 

Afternoon

Get a glimpse of Angkor Wat, the most famous of all the temples on the plain of Angkor where you can learn more about Cambodian culture and its impressive religious structure.

Finally, discover Bakheng Temple, a temple mountain dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, witness the breathtaking sunset from Bakheng Hill, and marvel at the stunning views before heading back to your hotel.

Morning

Begin a new day by taking a visit to  Banteay Srei, an exquisite 10th-century Cambodian temple renowned for its intricate stone carvings. Marvel at the delicate craftsmanship and stunning details that adorn this unique temple. 

Continue your tour to Banteay Samre, built in the third quarter of the 12th century, consisting of a central temple with four wings preceded by a hall and two libraries. 

Following those exciting activities, let’s explore Pradark village to observe the villagers making sugar palms and handicrafts on the way back. 

Afterward, make a stop at Old Market (if time permits) to find antiquities, silver and gold jewelry, silk, wood carvings, as well as T-Shirts, which you can purchase to take home as souvenirs. 

Treat yourself to a nice lunch at a local restaurant. 

Afternoon

It’s time for a transfer to Siem Reap airport to catch a short flight to Sihanoukville. 

Upon arrival, you will check-in in at the hotel, and the remainder of the day is yours to relish. 

This free day is a golden opportunity for you to have the best experience on your own. There are a myriad of exciting activities for you to take part in such as yoga by the beach (available at the hotel on the guest's account), experience snorkeling, diving, fishing, or relaxing on the private beach by the hotel. 

Optional:

For adventure seekers, Sihanoukville Remote Jungle Trekking Full day (From US $100 /pax) might provide you with amazing experiences as you can immerse yourself in off-the-beaten-track places in Sihanoukville.

Morning

After having a scrumptious breakfast at your hotel, it’s time to bid farewell to Sihanoukville and get ready for a 4.5-hour transfer to Phnom Penh Airport for catching the flight to the next destination.