Welcome to Chiang Rai, Northern Thailand — a region of mist-covered hills, ancient temples and tranquil river landscapes near the famed Golden Triangle. Upon arrival at Chiang Rai International Airport, you will be met in the arrivals hall by your local representative and escorted to your waiting vehicle. The pace here is immediately calmer than Bangkok, offering a gentle introduction to your wider Indochina cultural tour.

A short and comfortable transfer brings you to your riverside resort, where lush tropical gardens and views over the Kok River create an atmosphere of immediate relaxation. After the long journey, the remainder of the day is intentionally unstructured, allowing time to rest, freshen up and adjust to the local time zone.

You may wish to enjoy the hotel’s facilities, take a gentle stroll along the riverbank, or simply unwind by the pool. The soft northern Thai light at sunset is particularly beautiful, casting warm tones across the surrounding landscape and offering a peaceful moment to absorb your new surroundings.

Chiang Rai offers a quieter and more traditional atmosphere than Thailand’s larger cities, making it the perfect starting point for your exploration of temples, borderlands and river journeys in the days ahead. Tomorrow, you will begin discovering the cultural highlights that make this region so distinctive.

Overnight: Chiang Rai

Today you explore the cultural and historical heart of Northern Thailand, where borders, beliefs and traditions converge. After breakfast, depart with your private guide towards the legendary Golden Triangle, the meeting point of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar. Standing at the panoramic viewpoint overlooking the Mekong River, you will witness one of Southeast Asia’s most geographically significant regions — a place once synonymous with the opium trade and now known for its dramatic scenery and cultural crossroads.

To better understand the region’s past, continue to the Hall of Opium Museum. This thoughtfully curated museum provides valuable historical context about the former opium trade and its impact across the Mekong region. Through engaging exhibits and multimedia displays, you will gain insight into the transformation of the Golden Triangle into the peaceful destination it is today.

Later, enjoy a visit to a carefully selected ethical elephant sanctuary. Here, the focus is on conservation, welfare and education rather than performance or riding. You will observe these magnificent animals in a natural environment, learn about ongoing protection efforts and understand the important shift towards responsible wildlife tourism in Thailand. This meaningful encounter offers both memorable moments and ethical reassurance.

In the afternoon, return towards Chiang Rai to visit two of Thailand’s most striking modern temples. The dazzling Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) is a contemporary masterpiece, shimmering in white and mirrored glass, symbolising purity and spiritual enlightenment. In contrast, the vibrant Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple) captivates with its deep sapphire hues and intricate golden detailing. Together, they showcase the artistic creativity that defines modern Thai Buddhist architecture.

Return to your hotel in the late afternoon. The evening is at leisure, offering time to relax or perhaps explore Chiang Rai’s small night market for local crafts and northern Thai street food. Today has offered a rich introduction to the landscapes, history and spiritual artistry that make this region such a compelling beginning to your Thailand and Indochina journey.

Overnight: Chiang Rai

After breakfast, depart Chiang Rai and travel north-east towards Chiang Khong, a quiet Thai border town set along the mighty Mekong River. The scenic drive passes through rural landscapes of rice fields, rubber plantations and small villages, offering a final glimpse of northern Thailand before crossing into neighbouring Laos.

On arrival at the Thai–Lao border, your guide will assist with exit formalities before you cross the Friendship Bridge into Huay Xai, Laos. Immigration procedures are straightforward and typically take between 30–60 minutes, depending on traffic. Once cleared, you will be transferred to the river pier to begin one of the most atmospheric experiences of your Indochina journey — a two-day cruise along the Mekong.

Board your comfortable river boat and settle in as you begin sailing downstream. The Mekong here feels timeless and unhurried. Forested hills rise gently on either side while traditional wooden houses and fishermen appear intermittently along the banks. Lunch is served on board as the boat glides through one of Southeast Asia’s most important waterways.

This stretch of river travel is not about speed, but immersion. You may see children waving from the shoreline, monks travelling between villages, or water buffalo cooling at the river’s edge. The slow pace allows you to absorb the changing landscapes as Thailand gradually gives way to rural Laos.

By late afternoon, you arrive in Pakbeng, a small riverside settlement that serves as an overnight stop for Mekong travellers. After disembarking, transfer to your lodge overlooking the river. As the sun sets over the Mekong, the hills turn a soft amber and the pace of life slows further — a perfect introduction to the serene rhythm of Laos travel.

The evening is at leisure. You may choose to relax at your lodge, enjoy a simple riverside dinner, or take a short stroll through the quiet village streets.

Overnight: Pakbeng

Rise early to witness the soft morning light over the Mekong River, as mist drifts gently across the water and village life slowly begins along the banks. After breakfast at your lodge, return to the pier and reboard your river vessel to continue your downstream journey through northern Laos. Today’s cruise offers some of the most scenic stretches of the river, with dramatic limestone hills and dense jungle lining the shores.

Midway through the journey, you will stop at the sacred Pak Ou Caves, one of Laos’ most important spiritual sites. Set at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Ou rivers, these limestone caves house thousands of small Buddha statues placed by pilgrims over centuries. Climb the short staircase to explore the caves and enjoy panoramic river views before returning to the boat.

Lunch is served onboard as you continue towards Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its blend of Buddhist temples, French colonial architecture and traditional Lao wooden houses. As the boat approaches the town in the late afternoon, you will begin to see temple roofs rising above the treeline and monks in saffron robes walking along the riverbank.

Upon arrival at the jetty, you will be met by your local guide and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the evening is at leisure — an ideal opportunity to relax after two days on the river or to take a gentle stroll through the town’s charming streets.

Luang Prabang’s tranquil atmosphere provides a striking contrast to busier Southeast Asian cities. Over the coming days, you will explore its monasteries, waterfalls and surrounding countryside at a comfortable and immersive pace.

Overnight: Luang Prabang

Today is dedicated to exploring the cultural and architectural treasures of Luang Prabang, one of Southeast Asia’s most beautifully preserved UNESCO World Heritage cities. With its harmonious blend of Lao Buddhist heritage and French colonial elegance, Luang Prabang offers a refined and atmospheric introduction to the spiritual heart of Laos.

Begin your morning at the Royal Palace Museum, a former royal residence built in 1904 during the French colonial period. The palace offers insight into the country’s royal history and houses religious artefacts, including the revered Phra Bang Buddha, from which the city derives its name. The architecture itself reflects a fascinating fusion of traditional Lao motifs and Beaux-Arts French design.

Continue to Wat Xieng Thong, considered the most important monastery in Luang Prabang and a masterpiece of classical Lao temple architecture. Its sweeping multi-tiered roof nearly touches the ground, and its exterior walls are adorned with intricate mosaics, including the famous “Tree of Life” glass artwork. Your guide will explain the symbolism, rituals and significance of this sacred site within Lao Buddhism.

Throughout the day, you will notice saffron-robed monks moving quietly between temples, reinforcing the city’s deep-rooted spiritual rhythm. Luang Prabang is home to dozens of active monasteries, and daily religious life remains central to the community.

In the late afternoon, climb the 300 steps of Mount Phousi, located in the centre of town. The ascent is gentle and rewarded with panoramic views over the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, the surrounding mountains, and the golden rooftops of Luang Prabang. Sunset here is particularly atmospheric, as temple bells echo faintly below and the sky shifts into soft shades of amber and violet.

Descend in the early evening and return to your hotel. The remainder of the night is at leisure — perhaps enjoy a riverside meal or browse the nearby night market for locally woven textiles and handicrafts.

Overnight: Luang Prabang

This morning, travel through the scenic countryside surrounding Luang Prabang towards one of Laos’ most spectacular natural attractions — the breathtaking Kuang Si Waterfalls. The drive passes through traditional Lao villages, rice fields and forested hills, offering insight into rural life beyond the historic town centre.

Upon arrival, follow shaded forest pathways to discover a series of cascading turquoise pools flowing over limestone formations. The vivid blue colour of the water is created by mineral-rich deposits, giving Kuang Si its distinctive appearance. Wooden walkways and viewing platforms allow you to safely explore the different tiers of the falls, while clearly marked swimming areas provide the opportunity for a refreshing dip (season and water levels permitting).

Adjacent to the falls is the Free the Bears Rescue Centre, a respected conservation project dedicated to protecting Asiatic black bears rescued from illegal wildlife trade. Learn about ongoing rehabilitation efforts and the importance of ethical wildlife protection in Laos. The centre provides an educational and responsible addition to your visit.

En route back to Luang Prabang, you may pass small local villages where traditional weaving and farming practices continue largely unchanged. These brief stops provide a respectful glimpse into daily Lao life.

Return to your hotel in the early afternoon. The remainder of the day is at leisure. You may choose to relax by the pool, visit a café overlooking the Mekong, explore local artisan boutiques, or simply enjoy the calm pace that defines this UNESCO-listed town.

Overnight: Luang Prabang

Today offers a deeper look into rural life along the lesser-travelled waterways of northern Laos. After breakfast, transfer to a local pier to begin a scenic excursion along the Nam Ou River, one of the Mekong’s most important tributaries. As your boat glides gently through calm waters, forested hills and limestone cliffs frame the landscape, revealing a quieter and more traditional side of Laos travel.

Life along the Nam Ou moves at an unhurried rhythm. You may observe fishermen casting nets, farmers tending riverside plots and children playing along the banks. This journey is less about sightseeing and more about immersion — a chance to witness authentic daily life far removed from urban centres.

Disembark at selected remote villages accessible primarily by river. Accompanied by your guide, walk respectfully through these communities to gain insight into local livelihoods, including weaving, small-scale agriculture and traditional house construction. Visits are conducted sensitively, ensuring cultural respect and minimal disruption to village routines.

Depending on river conditions and timing, enjoy a simple riverside lunch or return to Luang Prabang for the afternoon. The journey back provides further opportunities to appreciate the serenity of the Laotian countryside.

Arrive back in Luang Prabang later in the day. The evening is at leisure — perhaps enjoy a final riverside sunset, sample traditional Lao dishes such as laap or mok pa, or take a relaxed walk through the old quarter.

Overnight: Luang Prabang

This morning, transfer to Luang Prabang Airport for your short domestic flight to Pakse, the gateway to southern Laos and the culturally rich region of Champasak. Upon arrival, you will be met by your local guide and begin the scenic drive towards the Mekong-side town of Champasak, where life unfolds at a slower, rural pace.

Set against a dramatic mountain backdrop, Champasak is best known for the remarkable Wat Phou Temple Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that predates Angkor. In the afternoon, explore this ancient Khmer sanctuary, originally constructed between the 9th and 13th centuries. Unlike the temples of Cambodia, Wat Phou feels far more serene and lightly visited, allowing time for quiet appreciation of its spiritual atmosphere and sweeping views over the Mekong plains.

Climb the processional pathway lined with stone markers, pass through the lower pavilions and ascend towards the main sanctuary. From the upper terrace, panoramic views stretch across rice fields and river landscapes, revealing why this sacred site was carefully aligned with the surrounding natural environment.

Following your visit, transfer to your riverside hotel in Champasak. The remainder of the evening is at leisure. As sunset falls over the Mekong, enjoy the tranquil surroundings that characterise southern Laos — a peaceful contrast to the more frequented heritage sites of the region.

Overnight: Champasak

Today you journey deeper into southern Laos to explore the remarkable Si Phan Don (4,000 Islands) region, where the mighty Mekong River broadens and fractures into a maze of channels, sandbanks and river islands. This peaceful corner of Laos feels wonderfully remote, offering a glimpse into a slower, river-bound way of life.

Your first stop is the powerful Khone Phapheng Waterfalls, the largest waterfalls in Southeast Asia by volume. Here, the Mekong surges dramatically over rocky cascades, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle. Elevated viewing platforms allow safe appreciation of the thundering waters and the surrounding jungle landscape.

Continue to Liphi Falls (Somphamit Waterfalls), a series of picturesque rapids set within forested surroundings. Wooden walkways guide you along the river’s edge, offering excellent vantage points over the rushing water. The contrast between the Mekong’s calm upstream stretches and these dramatic rapids highlights the river’s immense power.

Depending on timing and river conditions, there may be the opportunity for an optional dolphin spotting excursion near Don Khon Island. The critically endangered Irrawaddy dolphins are occasionally seen in this stretch of the Mekong. Sightings cannot be guaranteed, as these are wild animals in a natural habitat, but the boat ride itself provides a scenic and tranquil experience.

Return to your hotel in Champasak later in the afternoon. The evening is at leisure — perhaps enjoy a quiet riverside dinner as the Mekong glows in the soft evening light, reflecting on the diverse landscapes experienced today.

Overnight: Champasak

Today is intentionally unhurried, allowing you to absorb the peaceful rhythm of Champasak and the surrounding Mekong countryside. After several days of exploration across temples, waterfalls and river landscapes, this slower pace provides balance within your wider Indochina journey.

You may choose to enjoy the facilities of your riverside resort, relax by the pool, or simply sit with a coffee overlooking the Mekong River as local fishing boats drift past. Southern Laos remains one of the region’s least developed areas, and its charm lies precisely in its authenticity and calm atmosphere.

For those who prefer light exploration, optional independent activities may include a gentle bicycle ride through nearby villages, where wooden stilt houses, rice paddies and Buddhist temples reflect traditional Lao life. Alternatively, you may wish to take a short walk through Champasak town to observe daily life unfolding at a relaxed pace.

This gentle pause within your itinerary ensures that the experience remains immersive yet comfortable. Tomorrow, your adventure continues as you travel onward to Cambodia and the remarkable temples of Angkor.

Overnight: Champasak

This morning, transfer to Pakse Airport for your onward flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia, gateway to the legendary Angkor temples. Upon arrival, you will be met by your local guide and transferred to your hotel to settle in before beginning your introduction to one of Southeast Asia’s most extraordinary archaeological sites.

In the afternoon, travel to the vast Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former capital of the mighty Khmer Empire. Rather than attempting to see everything at once, today is designed as a gentle orientation — an opportunity to absorb the scale and atmosphere of the ancient city before more in-depth exploration tomorrow.

Your first visit may include a quieter temple within the complex or an introductory walk near Angkor Wat, allowing time to appreciate the intricate bas-reliefs, towering spires and surrounding moat without rushing. Your guide will provide historical context, explaining how Angkor flourished between the 9th and 15th centuries as one of the most advanced civilisations in the world.

As the day draws to a close, head to a designated sunset viewpoint within the Angkor complex. From here, watch the sun descend over jungle-covered ruins and temple silhouettes, casting warm golden light across the landscape. The atmosphere at this hour is particularly evocative, marking a memorable first encounter with Angkor.

Return to your hotel in Siem Reap in the early evening. The remainder of the night is at leisure — perhaps enjoy dinner in the lively town centre or rest ahead of a full day exploring the temples tomorrow.

Overnight: Siem Reap

An early start rewards you with one of the most iconic experiences in Southeast Asia — sunrise at Angkor Wat. Arriving before dawn, watch as the silhouette of the temple’s lotus-shaped towers gradually emerges against a sky painted in soft shades of pink and gold. As the light reflects across the surrounding moat, the grandeur of this 12th-century masterpiece becomes fully apparent. Built under King Suryavarman II, Angkor Wat remains the largest religious monument in the world and a defining symbol of Cambodia.

After sunrise, explore the temple’s interior galleries, where intricate bas-reliefs depict scenes from Hindu epics including the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Your guide will highlight key carvings and explain the temple’s architectural symbolism, revealing how it represents Mount Meru, the centre of the universe in Hindu cosmology.

Continue to the atmospheric Ta Prohm, often referred to as the “jungle temple.” Unlike many restored sites, Ta Prohm has been deliberately left partially reclaimed by nature. Towering silk-cotton and strangler fig trees wrap their roots around ancient stone walls, creating one of the most photogenic and evocative scenes within the Angkor complex.

In the afternoon, explore the fortified city of Angkor Thom, once the last great capital of the Khmer Empire. Enter through its monumental South Gate before arriving at the enigmatic Bayon Temple, famed for its dozens of serene stone faces gazing out in all directions. Wander through its corridors and terraces, appreciating the intricate carvings and unique architectural style that distinguish it from other temples.

Return to your hotel in Siem Reap in the late afternoon. The evening is at leisure — perhaps enjoy traditional Cambodian cuisine or a relaxed evening reflecting on a day spent among some of the world’s most extraordinary ancient monuments.

Overnight: Siem Reap

This morning, journey into the countryside northeast of Siem Reap to visit the exquisite temple of Banteay Srei. Often described as the “Citadel of Women,” this 10th-century temple is celebrated for its remarkably detailed pink sandstone carvings. Unlike the grand scale of Angkor Wat, Banteay Srei captivates through its delicate proportions and intricate bas-reliefs, widely regarded as some of the finest examples of classical Khmer art.

Your guide will explain the temple’s Hindu origins and the stories depicted in its carvings, offering insight into the craftsmanship and symbolism that distinguish Banteay Srei from other temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park. The smaller scale of the temple allows for a more intimate and less crowded experience.

Return towards Siem Reap in time for lunch (own arrangements), before heading out again in the afternoon to explore Tonle Sap Lake, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake and a vital lifeline for Cambodia. Here, board a local boat to visit a traditional floating village, where homes, schools and markets rise and fall with the seasonal water levels.

As you glide through the waterways, observe daily life unfolding on the lake — fishermen tending nets, children paddling small boats and families living in stilted or floating houses. This experience provides meaningful insight into the resilience and adaptability of communities whose lives are intrinsically connected to the rhythm of the water.

Return to your hotel in Siem Reap in the late afternoon. The evening is at leisure — perhaps enjoy a relaxed dinner in town or explore the lively night markets for local handicrafts and souvenirs.

Overnight: Siem Reap

Today is free for you to enjoy Siem Reap at your own pace. After several rewarding days exploring the magnificent Angkor temples, this pause in the itinerary allows time to relax, revisit favourite sites independently, or explore the town’s vibrant cafés, markets and artisan workshops.

You may wish to spend a leisurely morning at your hotel, enjoy the pool, or explore Siem Reap’s growing culinary scene. The town offers a blend of traditional Khmer culture and contemporary influences, making it an enjoyable place to unwind between temple visits.

For those who wish to continue exploring, an optional excursion to Beng Mealea can be arranged (at additional cost). Located approximately 40 kilometres from Siem Reap, Beng Mealea is a sprawling jungle temple often described as a “lost temple” due to its partially unrestored state. Unlike the more visited sites within the Angkor complex, Beng Mealea offers a sense of discovery, with collapsed galleries, tree-covered towers and wooden walkways guiding visitors through the ruins.

Its remote location and atmospheric setting provide a striking contrast to Angkor Wat and Bayon, offering a quieter and more adventurous temple experience. Should you choose this excursion, your private guide will accompany you and provide historical context throughout.

Whether you choose further exploration or relaxation, this flexible day ensures a balanced and comfortable pace within your wider Cambodia travel experience.

Overnight: Siem Reap

This morning, transfer to Siem Reap Airport for your short domestic flight to Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s dynamic capital city. Situated at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, Phnom Penh offers a compelling blend of royal heritage, French colonial architecture and modern Cambodian life.

Upon arrival, you will be met by your local guide and transferred to your hotel. After check-in and time to refresh, head out for a gentle afternoon orientation along the city’s lively riverfront promenade. The Sisowath Quay waterfront is one of Phnom Penh’s most pleasant areas, where colonial-era buildings sit alongside cafés and temples overlooking the Mekong.

Take a relaxed stroll along the riverside, observing daily life unfold — locals exercising at sunset, monks walking between monasteries, and vendors selling snacks along the promenade. This informal introduction provides a sense of Phnom Penh’s atmosphere before tomorrow’s deeper exploration of its historic landmarks.

Phnom Penh’s energy contrasts with the temple landscapes of Siem Reap, offering a vibrant urban chapter within your wider Cambodia and Mekong journey.

Overnight: Phnom Penh

Today offers a powerful and insightful exploration of Phnom Penh, combining the grandeur of Cambodia’s royal heritage with a respectful reflection on its more recent history. Accompanied by your private guide, begin the morning at the magnificent Royal Palace, an active royal residence built in 1866 and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Within the palace grounds, visit the revered Silver Pagoda, named after its gleaming floor composed of over 5,000 silver tiles. Inside, you will find treasured national artefacts, including a life-sized gold Buddha encrusted with diamonds. The ornate Khmer architecture and manicured gardens provide a striking contrast to the events you will learn about later in the day.

In the afternoon, your tour turns towards Cambodia’s modern history with a visit to Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21). Formerly a secondary school, this site was converted into a prison during the Khmer Rouge regime. The museum stands today as a memorial and educational centre, offering sobering insight into the tragic events that shaped Cambodia between 1975 and 1979.

Continue to the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, located just outside the city. Here, a memorial stupa commemorates the thousands of victims who lost their lives during this dark chapter of Cambodian history. The visit is conducted respectfully and provides important historical context, helping visitors understand the resilience and strength of the Cambodian people today.

Return to your hotel in the late afternoon. The evening is at leisure, offering time to process the day’s experiences or enjoy a quiet dinner along the river. Today’s programme provides a balanced perspective on Cambodia’s royal legacy and its journey toward recovery and renewal.

Overnight: Phnom Penh

This morning, transfer to the pier to board a scheduled speedboat for your journey along the Mekong River from Cambodia into Vietnam. Travelling by river offers a memorable and scenic transition between countries, following one of Southeast Asia’s most important waterways as it flows steadily towards the fertile plains of the Mekong Delta.

As the boat departs Phnom Penh, watch the capital gradually give way to rural riverbanks dotted with stilted homes, fishing boats and riverside pagodas. The journey typically takes several hours, including formal immigration procedures at the river border checkpoint.

Upon arrival at the designated border station, disembark briefly to complete exit formalities from Cambodia before continuing to the Vietnamese immigration post for entry clearance. Your passports and visas should be readily accessible, and your guide will assist with the process to ensure a smooth transition.

Continue by boat to Chau Doc, a charming riverside town located near the Cambodian border and known for its multicultural communities and agricultural landscapes. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure. You may choose to relax at your hotel or take a gentle walk along the riverside to observe daily life in this tranquil border town. Tomorrow, you continue deeper into the vibrant waterways of the Vietnam Mekong Delta.

Overnight: Chau Doc

This morning, depart Chau Doc and travel by road deeper into the fertile heart of the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. The journey to Can Tho takes you through a landscape defined by rice paddies, fruit orchards and intricate waterways that sustain one of Southeast Asia’s most productive agricultural regions.

Upon arrival in Can Tho, head out to explore the vibrant Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest and most famous floating market in the Mekong Delta. Travelling by local boat, observe traders selling fresh produce directly from their vessels — pineapples, watermelons, pumpkins and other seasonal fruits are displayed on tall poles so buyers can easily identify what is available from a distance.

This is not a staged attraction but a working wholesale market, and the atmosphere reflects authentic river commerce. Your guide will explain how the delta’s waterways function as highways for trade and transport, shaping the daily lives of local communities. The early hours are typically the most active, when boats cluster together and bargaining takes place across the water.

Following your market visit, return to your hotel to check in and relax. The remainder of the day is at leisure, offering time to enjoy the riverside setting or explore the town independently. Can Tho provides a comfortable base for experiencing the dynamic yet tranquil world of the Vietnam Mekong Delta.

Overnight: Can Tho

After breakfast, transfer to the pier to board your boutique Mekong Delta river vessel for an unforgettable overnight cruise through the intricate waterways of southern Vietnam. As you step onboard, you are welcomed by the crew and shown to your comfortable cabin, designed to provide panoramic river views and a relaxed atmosphere throughout the journey.

As the boat departs, the scenery begins to unfold at an unhurried pace. Narrow canals, coconut palms and traditional wooden homes line the riverbanks, offering an intimate perspective of daily life in the Mekong Delta. This region is often described as the “rice bowl of Vietnam,” and from the deck you will observe boats transporting produce, fishermen casting nets and farmers tending to orchards along the fertile riverbanks.

During the afternoon, the vessel will pause for guided shore excursions to explore smaller tributaries or local workshops, depending on the cruise programme and river conditions. These visits provide insight into traditional cottage industries such as rice paper making, fruit cultivation or small-scale boat building.

Return onboard to enjoy a freshly prepared dinner as the sun sets over the delta. The golden light reflecting across the water creates a peaceful and atmospheric setting. Evenings onboard are relaxed — perhaps enjoy a drink on deck, listen to the gentle rhythm of the river, and appreciate the quiet contrast to city life.

Spend the night gently cruising or moored along a quiet stretch of the river, immersed in the tranquil surroundings of the Vietnam Mekong Delta.

Overnight: Onboard Mekong River Vessel

Wake early to witness the Mekong Delta coming to life once more before enjoying breakfast onboard. After a final stretch of river cruising, disembark at the designated pier and continue by road to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s dynamic southern metropolis still affectionately known as Saigon.

The drive reveals the gradual shift from tranquil waterways and rice paddies to bustling urban energy. Upon arrival in the city, check in to your hotel and take time to refresh before heading out for an introductory orientation tour.

This gentle city exploration may include views of key landmarks such as the Notre Dame Cathedral (exterior), the Central Post Office, the historic Opera House and tree-lined boulevards reflecting the city’s French colonial heritage. Your guide will explain how Ho Chi Minh City has evolved into Vietnam’s commercial heart while retaining layers of history beneath its modern skyline.

The remainder of the afternoon allows you to acclimatise to the city’s vibrant pace. Markets, cafés and boutique shops are plentiful, and the contrast with the peaceful delta landscapes of the previous day is striking.

Return to your hotel for a relaxed evening. Ho Chi Minh City’s energy, illuminated streets and rooftop views provide a fitting finale to your journey through the Mekong region.

Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City

Today is yours to enjoy at leisure in Ho Chi Minh City, offering time to explore at your own pace after an immersive journey through Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. Whether you prefer cultural sightseeing, café-hopping, shopping or simply relaxing, the city provides a wide range of experiences to suit every interest.

You may wish to revisit architectural highlights such as the Notre Dame Cathedral (exterior) and the elegant Central Post Office, browse the bustling stalls of Ben Thanh Market, or explore the contemporary boutiques and art galleries emerging across District 1. History enthusiasts might consider visiting the War Remnants Museum independently for deeper context into Vietnam’s recent past.

For a more relaxed pace, enjoy Vietnam’s renowned coffee culture in one of the city’s rooftop cafés, or stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street as locals gather in the late afternoon. The blend of colonial charm, modern skyscrapers and energetic street life makes Ho Chi Minh City a fascinating place to absorb independently.

This final full day allows you to reflect on the diverse cultures, landscapes and UNESCO World Heritage Sites encountered throughout your Indochina tour, from the Golden Triangle to the Mekong Delta.

Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City

After breakfast at your hotel, enjoy a final morning in Ho Chi Minh City depending on your flight schedule. Perhaps take a short stroll nearby, savour one last Vietnamese coffee, or simply relax before your onward journey home.

At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your international departure. Please ensure you have your passport, boarding pass and any required travel documentation readily accessible. We recommend arriving at the airport at least three hours prior to departure for long-haul flights, in line with airline guidelines.

As you board your flight, take a moment to reflect on your journey through Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam — from the misty Mekong River and sacred temples of Luang Prabang to the majestic Angkor Wat and the vibrant waterways of the Mekong Delta. Each destination has offered its own rhythm, culture and unforgettable experiences.

Overnight onboard your international flight as you travel home, bringing with you lasting memories of your immersive Indochina cultural tour.

Overnight: In flight