Cruising the Mekong River

Journey through the heart of Vietnam and Cambodia on an unforgettable exploration of the Mekong River aboard the Mekong Princess, a luxurious riverboat that reflects the grace and beauty of Southeast Asia. Begin in dynamic Ho Chi Minh City, then travel through the Mekong’s tranquil waterways to discover floating markets, stilted villages, and daily life shaped by the river. Conclude with two full days among the magnificent temples of Angkor, one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological wonders. Along the way, meet local artisans, enjoy regional cuisine, and experience the warm spirit of the people who call the Mekong home. Optional pre-tour extension offered to Hanoi and Ha Long Bay.

Event Itinerary

Days 1–2: Depart Home / Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

• Depart on overnight flights to Ho Chi Minh City
• Transfer to the Park Hyatt Saigon, an elegant five-star hotel blending French colonial architecture with modern sophistication
• Brief welcome orientation; remainder of the evening at leisure

Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City

• Insightful tour of the War Remnants Museum
• Panoramic city tour showcasing Ho Chi Minh City's vibrant energy and architectural heritage
• Welcome dinner at a nearby restaurant

Day 4: Ho Chi Minh City / Embark Mekong Princess

• Guided visit to the bustling Ben Thanh Market, a cultural landmark known for its rich array of local goods
• Transfer to the port and board the Mekong Princess; first program lecture on board

Day 5: Ben Tre / Can Tho

• Peaceful sampan ride through narrow mangrove channels
• Visit a traditional coconut candy workshop and a local orchard
• Travel by small boat through winding creeks framed with lush Nipah palms for a glimpse into daily Mekong Delta life
• Visit the serene Zihuang Pagoda and enjoy a colorful traditional unicorn dance performance

Day 6: Can Tho / Hoa An

• Sampan ride through Can Tho's famous floating market, where merchants trade fresh produce from boat to boat
• Visit a noodle factory and a family orchard showcasing exotic fruits
• Explore Hoa An's flourishing flower gardens and meet craftspeople skilled in traditional mat- and hat-making

Day 7: Gieng Island / Hong Ngu

• Visit a traditional sampan-making village on Gieng Island to observe skilled craftsmen at work
• Explore a historic Franciscan monastery along rural canals
• Visit a women's weaving cooperative and a colorful temple dedicated to the Hoa Hao faith in Hong Ngu
• Cruise across the border into Cambodia as the journey continues upstream

Day 8: Phnom Penh, Cambodia

• Authentic cyclo ride through the city to visit the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda
• Guided tour of the National Museum, home to an impressive collection of Khmer art and artifacts
• Afternoon and evening at leisure to explore Phnom Penh independently

Day 9: Phnom Penh

• Morning visit to the Choeung Ek Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21), offering powerful insight into Cambodia's complex past and journey toward healing
• Afternoon at leisure
• Evening performance by children from a local orphanage showcasing their talents

Day 10: Angkor Ban

• Visit Angkor Ban village, one of the few communities to survive the Khmer Rouge era, with centuries-old stilted homes standing as a testament to its resilience
• Meet local children at a nearby primary school and experience the warmth of rural river life
• Scenic afternoon cruise and final gourmet dinner aboard the Mekong Princess

Day 11: Kampong Cham / Siem Reap

• Disembark in Kampong Cham and journey to Siem Reap
• Visit the Angkor National Museum, home to a remarkable collection of artifacts bringing the ancient Angkor Empire to life
• Check in to the Raffles Grand Hotel for a relaxing evening at leisure

Day 12: Angkor / Siem Reap

• Early morning visit to Angkor Wat, where soft light illuminates the temple's majestic silhouette
• Tuk tuk tour through Siem Reap visiting peaceful monasteries, the Tlai Tno art school, and local artisan workshops
• Remainder of the evening at leisure

Day 13: Angkor / Siem Reap

• Breathtaking sunrise view over Angkor Wat from Ba Kheng Temple
• Traditional Khmer gondola ride to Bayon, known for its serene stone faces
• Explore the Terrace of the Elephants and the atmospheric Ta Prohm, where jungle roots intertwine with ancient stone
• Festive farewell dinner celebrating the rich flavors of Cambodian cuisine

Day 14: Siem Reap / Depart for Home

• Transfer to the airport for return flights home, crossing the International Date Line and arriving the same day