AMAZING TRIP TO VIETNAM CAMBODIA LAOS 21 DAYS TO DISCOVER HIDDEN GERMS

After arriving at Noi Bai Airport, you will be picked up and transferred to the hotel in the city center. Hotel check-in is available from 2 pm. You can enjoy free time to discover Hanoi by yourself.

We will start the day with a trip to the Tran Quoc Pagoda. You will then visit the Temple of Literature, constructed in 1070 to worship Confucius, which was also used as the first Royal National University of Vietnam. There are 82 stone steles, carried by tortoises, engraved with names, birthdates, and birthplaces of honored doctorates from 1442 to 1779.

In the afternoon, you visit the Museum of Ethnology (closed on Mondays, the alternative on this day is the History Museum). The museum offers a wide range of informative and well-documented displays of the 54 ethnic groups in Vietnam. The outdoor display is an impressive collection of traditional houses of various minorities from the north to the central Highlands.

We will drive back to the Old Quarter for a 1.5-hour walking tour, specially designed for a deeper insight into Hanoian daily life. You will also visit the Ngoc Son temple which sits on a green islet in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake, connected to the lakeside by a graceful scarlet bridge named The Huc (meaning the early sunlight welcoming place). After, you will stay overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast, pick-up at your hotel in Hanoi by your guide and driver.

Departure for Mai Chau, about 135 kilometers southwest of Hanoi.

On the way, you’ll pass through magnificent landscapes of rice terraces, green hills and traditional villages.

Stop off at an ethnic minority village to meet the locals and learn more about their culture.

On arrival in Mai Chau, lunch with a local family, where you can savor traditional local dishes.

Afterwards, walk or cycle through the surrounding Mai Chau valley. Follow the quiet paths, admire the magnificent natural scenery and meet the local people. Visit remote villages, where you can learn more about the traditional way of life of ethnic minorities.

Return by vehicle to the village of Mai Hich.

Dinner and overnight at the local stilt house.

In the morning, we will drive to Pu Luong. The road leading to Pu Luong Nature Reserve takes you to breathtaking mountain passes and offers fascinating bird’s- eye views of the whole valley. We will reach Pu Luong right in time for a delicious lunch. You will have free time to rest after the long drive or you can choose to explore the beautiful retreat, with its captivating views and tranquil setting.

In the afternoon, we will transfer 12km from the Retreat to the starting place of our walking journey. After crossing the suspension bridge over the Cham River, we will follow the stream and walk across rice fields, from village to village hunting beautiful water wheels. You can approach the wheels to investigate how water is conducted from the river to handmade bamboo aqueducts by simple devices of all sizes. On arriving in Chieng Lau village, we will take a rest and enjoy the peaceful streamside scenery. We will then walk to the main road and take the car back to Pu Luong Retreat for a delicious dinner.

In the morning, we will take a bicycle ride and get lost on winding roads passing lotus ponds, temples, and cottages. We will stop to visit Bich Dong pagoda, which is hidden among the trees on a lush hillside. After that, we will go to Hang Mua, which literally means Dancing Cave because King Tran used to come here to enjoy dancing and singing shows performed in this cave. We will arrive at Hang Mua, where we will challenge ourselves to conquer the 500 stone steps to get to the top of Mua Mount. You can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the Tam Coc countryside and the Ngo Dong River.

In the afternoon, you will board a rowing boat in Tam Coc (three grottoes) for a peaceful navigation along Ngo Dong River, cruising among limestone mountains, between rice fields and through three beautiful limestone caves. We will then transfer to Hoa Lu, the former feudal capital of Vietnam at the end of the 10th century. You will visit two ancient temples dedicated to Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh and admire the unique architecture from ancient times. Overnight in Ninh Binh.

After a refreshing breakfast, we will depart for Lan Ha Bay – Ha Long Bay’s lesser-known little cousin. After a three-hour drive, you will arrive at Cat Ba, the largest island in the Gulf of Tonkin, and head to Ben Beo pier. We will board a traditional boat for a cruise on the magical Lan Ha Bay. You will observe floating villages and marine farming while being served a delicious lunch on board. Around 1:30 p.m, the boat will anchor in front of the pristine beach of Van Boi where you will have free time to swim in the water or sunbathe on the ship’s deck. Later in the afternoon, we will head to Hang Ca or Dau Be cave for a kayaking excursion, another great way to experience the bay. At the end of the day the boat will drop anchor for the night in the middle of the bay. Dinner will be served and you will stay overnight on board.

Today, we will wake up early to be rewarded with an exquisite view of the bay during sunrise. A fresh breakfast will be served on board at around 7:30 am. The boat will continue to sail in Lan Ha Bay, cruising through the most beautiful peaks and rocks. At around 8:45 am, we will arrive at Viet Hai village, a small rural fishing village. We will cycle through the village and explore its gorgeous landscapes. We will then get back to the boat to freshen up and spend free time in your cabins, while the boat cruises back to Ben Got. A delicious lunch/brunch will be served around 11 am. Then, we disembark and drive back to Noi Bai airport. You will fly to Hue, Imperial City in the center of Vietnam.

After a yummy breakfast, we will take a boat trip on the poetic Perfume River. Our frst visit will be to Thien Mu Pagoda (Celestial Lady Pagoda) built in 1601 on the border of the river. With its seven-storey Phuoc Duyen tower, Thien Mu Pagoda became the symbol of the ancient capital and has often been mentioned in folk rhymes about Hue.

We will continue cruising toward Thuy Bieu village, settled on the bank of Perfume River. The village is famous for its green Thanh Tra (a small kind of pomelo) orchards. We will join the cooking class to prepare Hue’s typical dishes with our chef’s instruction. Then, we will enjoy our delicious food in the open-air riverside restaurant.

After lunch, we will drive to visit the Tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, designed by himself before his death. The Tomb complex includes 50 monuments arranged unsymmetrically and shows the perfect harmony of buildings and nature. We take time to soak in its tranquil and relaxing setting.

Afterwards, we will continue to visit the Imperial City. We will have a chance to see beautiful structures including the Flag Tower, Nine Holy Cannons, Ngo Mon Gate, Thai Hoa Palace, Nine Dynastic Urns and the Forbidden Purple City.

You will stay overnight at a local hotel.

After breakfast, we will take the Mandarin Road from Hue to Hoi An. Along the road are stunning landscapes of beaches and dense tropical forest. We will stop to take photos of Da Nang Beach. We will visit the Marble Mountains and Cham Museum before arriving in Hoi An. We will have a typical lunch at a restaurant in the ancient town.

In the afternoon, we will explore the UNESCO world heritage and its highlights: the Japanese Covered Bridge (built by the Japanese then living in Hoi An to connect their quarter and the Chinese’s one), old Phung Hung house, Hoi An’s market and ancient port. We will make a special stop at the Reaching Out tea house – a tranquil oasis in the bustling centre of Hoi An.

Remark: On the 1st and 15th of every lunar month, all the fluorescent lights will be turned off and the whole town will be illuminated with warm multi-colored lanterns.

After a tasty breakfast, we will take a bicycle to ride from your hotel along the De Vong River to Cam An wharf. We will get on the boat to Cua Dai sand dune to enjoy casting net shows and learn how to cast nets by local fisherman. We will continue to Cam Thanh water coconut village, and there we have a brief introduction to the history. Then, we will take the basket boat to traverse a tranquil waterway bordered by coconut palm. The fishermen will teach you how to catch crabs (2 people/boat). We would participate in basket boat racing and catching crabs. You will be shown how to make funny stuff from water coconut leaves. Then, we will get back on the boat and head to Cam An wharf, from where we will continue on bicycle to Tra Que village. Thanks to the special condition of rich soil and water, the village has long been known for growing many kinds of vegetables: lettuce, salad, houttuynia, fragrant knotweed, basil and coriander vegetables etc, with which the traditional specialities of Hoi An have gained part of their fame. We will have a yummy lunch and participate in daily activities with the local farmers.

We will drive to Thanh Ha Pottery Village where you can take part in the daily life of villagers who have been making pottery for over 500 years. Here, we will learn about the process of crafting pottery products such as vases, pots, and kettles.

We will travel back to Hoi An city and stay overnight at the hotel.

After a delicious breakfast, our guide and driver will take you to My Son Sanctuary-the ancient city of the Champa Kingdom. The Sanctuary is considered one of the foremost Hindu temple complexes in Southeast Asia with more than 70 architectural works formed between the 4th and 14th centuries. The complex exhibits not only the mystery building technique but also the sophisticated art of sculpture on brick and stone with vivid images of gods, monks, dancers, flowers, animals, and sacrifices of Cham people.

After the visit, we will drive to Danang airport and flight to Siem Reap.

Upon arrival at Siem Reap Int’s Airport, process immigration procedure (visa on arrival is available or obtain in advance via www.evisa.gov.kh), then get your luggage and walk straight to the Exit Gate where our Guide/Driver is waiting. After self-introduced, you’ll be transfered directly to the hotel in the city for check in (check in time is 2pm). Time to fresh-up and relax at hotel.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

After breakfast, we depart to Preah Khan Temple. It is located northeast of Angkor Thom and just west of the Jayatataka baray, with which it was associated. It was the center of a substantial organization, with almost 100,000 officials and servants. Next is Neak Poan, “the entwined snakes” is a small temple located on an island in the center of the now dry Jayatataka baray, a water reservoir 3,500-meter-long and 900 meter wide. Continue to Tasom offers some beautiful photo spots, especially the rear entrance where tree roots adorn the gateway.

You’ll also visit the Akira Landmine Museum, to learn more about Cambodia’s modern history. By the end of the day, you’ll have a greater understanding of Cambodia’s ancient and recent past.

Drive to the rural outskirt 35km from Angkor area to visit the smallest, but magnificent, Banteay Srei built in the 10th Century and dedicated to Shiva. The temple was the birthplace of Khmer classical style architecture and the bas-relief work is the best example of Khmer classical art remaining. The pink sandstone structure bears a series of striking and beautiful sculptures, lintels, pediments and friezes. Khmers say the temple must have been carved by women for the details are too fine for the hands of a man. On the way back stop at Pradark Village, where you will see the villagers making palm sugar, handicraft for selling to tourist. It’s a nice chance for you to see the local people living at the countryside with their struggling for daily life.

Not to be missed is Banteay Samre: Its rose-colored sandstone walls are decorated with carvings and bas-reliefs, which are among the most accomplished Angkor has to offer.

For the late afternoon we head back into main Angkor Park and journey to Pre Rup. We finish by experiencing sunset over the rice fields from the royal crematorium of Pre Rup, a classic view of the Cambodian countryside.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

We start very early in the morning so we can capture the iconic picture of the pre-dawn facing Angkor Wat temple. Sunrise at Angkor Wat can be a busy venue especially during the months of December, January, February and March.

After sunrise, we will explore the vast and rich of Angkor Wat temple, taking pictures at different angles, playing with light and shadows and capturing the most beautiful devatas carved in sandstone.

Next destination will be the Ta Prohm Temple, famous for its giant trees where the most impressive scenes of the Tomb Raider movie were filmed. We will continue by veering you away from the crowd to a remote temple in the jungle. We will also visit places out of the beaten path where you will capture unique pictures.

Next, at the Golden Hour, will be the impressive Bayon temple with its 54 towers and 216 faces overlooking the defunct city of Angkor Thom. The final stop will be at one of gate of Angkor Thom to capture sunset over the moat.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Depart for the Tonle Sap. You will enjoy a boat ride on the Tonle Sap Lake. This is the largest permanent fresh-water lake in Southeast Asia and flows into Tonle Sap River, joining the Mekong in Phnom Penh. You will see a fishermen’s “floating village” with floating schools, floating police station, etc. It is same as a big village floating on the lake, and the “village” move from place-to-place following water levels and current. You will go to local pagoda, where you should change to clothes you can get wet in as here you will experience the ceremony “SrouchTeok”, which roughly translates into “Water blessing”. A monk will chant in ancient Pali as he splashes water over you, washing away your sins and bad luck so you can start fresh and by being a good person can increase your good luck.

Transfer to the airport and take a flight to Luang Prabang. On arrival at the airport, you will be met and transferred to check in the hotel.

If time permits, we will take a short walk around the small streets of city center, watching the life of local people.

Visit the famous Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of handmade textiles made by local and hilltribe people surrounding Luang Prabang. Overnight in Luang Prabang

Breakfast at the hotel, we will first embark on the leisurely cruise upstream on the Mekong River, which also gives us a breathtaking view of the tranquil countryside, before reaching the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, a 16th century cave monastery filled with thousands of Buddha images, which locates 25 Kilometers North of Luang Prabang in the limestone cliffs overlooking the Mekong River.

En route, you will stop at Ban Muang Keo, a well-known village for its traditional Lao rice whisky distilling. You will arrive back in Luang Prabang.

On arrival back in the city, visit the old Wat Sene, and the nearby magnificent Wat Xiengthong a superb piece of Lao temple architecture, which presents a sweeping two-tiered roof and ornate mosaics including a beautiful ‘tree of life ‘glass montage on the rear temple wall.

If time permits, we will drive out of the city to visit Ban Xangkhong, the Thai Lue village, which is famous for its arts and crafts. We also visit the nearby village of Ban Xienglek specializing in making the traditional Saa paper.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Wake up as the sun rises, we will prepare to join the most sacred tradition of Laos, the daily morning alms giving, which dates to the 14th century. More than 200 Buddhist monks depart from various temple to gather their daily meal from the faithful residents sitting quietly on the streets.

We then visit the temporary morning market near the former Royal Palace. Just set on the ground, the local people come here to barter their day’s catch from rice, to vegetable, to fish, or chicken.

After breakfast at the hotel, we visit the city’s oldest temple of Wat Sene, and nearby the magnificent Wat Xiengthong with its roofs sweeping low to the ground, which represents classical Laotian architecture.

From there, we transfer directly to the beautiful Kuang Si waterfalls which is the biggest in the Luang Prabang area with three tiers leading to a 50-metre drop into spectacular azure pools before flowing downstream. The pools also make great swimming holes and are very popular with both tourists and locals.

If you wish, take a short visit to the Bear Rescue Center, which houses a couple of dozen animals rescued from the hands of poachers and traffickers.

Arrival at the Elephant Village Camp: Welcome greeting by your guide and participate in a short briefing about elephants.

Elephant Feeding: Get up close and personal with elephants.

Explore Elephant Village:  Visit our elephant hospital, museum, gallery and dung paper making facility!

One on One Experience: Enjoy the impressive experience of being a Mahout! 1 person per elephant

Boat trip to the Tad Sae Waterfall: Ride in a traditional Lao long boat to the Tad Sae Waterfall and relax or swim in the clear water.  Swimsuit recommended!  (note: water levels will vary with seasonal conditions)

Lunch at our Elephant Camp restaurant.  Your buffet lunch is served with coffee / tea and drinking water (vegetarian options are available)

1:00pm: Depart the camp.  Transfer back to your Hotel in Luang Prabang

You are free to stroll around the town for your own exploration.

Note: Zipline in 1hour, trekking min 1 hour – max 3 hours depending on the route that you choose.

After departing at 8:30 am from your hotel, transfer to Nahm Dong park, which locates in Ban Xiengmouk, 10Km from city center.

Arriving at the park, we will have a short welcome by the park manager before joining the morning activities here.

We will first start with the Zipline flying over the jungle and the waterfalls admiring the amazing evergreen scenery. The zipline will take about 1 hour.

Then we will walk back via the jungle trail crossing some flying bridges, small streams, and clear natural pools, where you can take a refresh splash if you wish so.

The picnic lunch will be served at the viewpoint where you can spread your view over the region, including the view of mount Phousi in the city center.

You can either spend the rest of the afternoon strolling around the park, relax by one of the huts at the camp, or enjoy the fresh cool clear natural pools.

We then transfer out to the train station to take the afternoon express train to Vang Vieng.

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in town.

Overnight in Vang Vieng.

The limestone cliffs and valleys surrounding the resort complex of Vang Vieng are home to numerous caves and caverns.

Your tour starts by crossing the Nam Song River for a short drive to Tham Pou Kham (Golden Crab Cave). After passing through a small entrance hole, you descend 100 meters into the ground.

You have ample time to visit Blue Lagoon, which is a great spot to relax and cool off before transferring back to the train station to take the train to Vientiane (1 hour train).

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in town.

Overnight in Vientiane.

In the morning, we will first visit Wat Si Muang, which is very famous for its supernatural power.

After that drive to Buddha Park which takes around 45 minutes away. Also known as Xieng Khuan, this unusual park is filled with over 200 Buddhist and Hindu statues.

We then visit Lao Disable Women Development Center, which assist disable women to cope with their disability and advocate for their rights. Spend time watching the video and learn about the effort to earn their daily living. You can support them by buying some small handicrafts at the shop.

Start the afternoon with a visit to That Luang, the holiest site in Laos. Constructed by King Setthathirat in the 16th century, the temple is resplendent as the sun shines upon its towering golden spire.

Then, enjoy a panoramic view over the city as you climb the stairs to the top of Patuxai, Vientiane’s own “Arc de Triomphe”.

Continue down Lane Xang Avenue the serene Wat Sisaket, the only temple left intact after the Siamese (Thai) invasion in 1828.

Continue to the nearby Wat Phra Keo.  Used as a religious museum, Wat Phra Keo displays a collection of both Lao and Khmer works of art.

End your tour of the capital along the banks of the Mekong River as the sun begins to set. Stroll along the river, stop to enjoy a cold drink, or sample a snack from one of the many local food stalls.

Overnight in Vientiane.

Enjoy your breakfast and your free time before heading to the airport for the flight back to your country.

We’ll say goodbye and see you again soon.