14-Day Vietnam & Cambodia Tour: Hanoi to Siem Reap

Traveling through Vietnam and Cambodia in just over two weeks can seem ambitious, but this guided, 14-day tour offers a well-balanced mix of iconic sights, cultural encounters, and authentic experiences. From cruising through the jaw-dropping scenery of Halong Bay to exploring the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, this itinerary is crafted for travelers craving a comprehensive yet manageable adventure.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its blend of scenic natural beauty, historical sites, and lively city life. Plus, it offers a good value at $662 per person, which includes transportation, guided tours, and some unique activities. That said, the pace is quite full and involves some long travel days, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy busy schedules and are physically prepared for a mix of sightseeing and walking.

While the tour covers a lot, one consideration is that some activities, especially the early mornings and long bus rides, might not appeal to everyone. But if you’re eager to see both Vietnam and Cambodia with a knowledgeable guide, this experience delivers a genuine sense of these nations’ spirit and diversity.

This tour is ideal for travelers who value culture, stunning landscapes, and a well-organized itinerary that takes care of the logistics while offering plenty of opportunities to explore. It’s perfect for first-timers to Southeast Asia looking for a structured yet authentic experience.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Vietnam and Cambodia highlights in 14 days
• Stunning landscapes like Halong Bay and Angkor Wat
• Authentic activities such as basket boat trips and visits to local farms
• Balanced mix of city exploration, cultural sites, and natural beauty
• Value-packed experience at a competitive price including guided tours
• Long travel days may require physical endurance

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This guided journey is designed to offer a mix of iconic sights and less touristy moments, giving travelers a well-rounded introduction to Vietnam and Cambodia. Starting in Hanoi, the trip quickly immerses you in Vietnam’s bustling capital, with its vibrant streets, French colonial architecture, and lively markets. The highlight here is the cruise through Halong Bay, where you’ll witness some of the most photogenic scenery of the entire trip.

From cruising to exploring ancient towns like Hoi An, with its lantern-lit streets and traditional boat rides, you’ll get a taste of Vietnam’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. Moving down to Hue, you’ll visit historical tombs and the Imperial City — sites that tell stories of Vietnam’s royal past. The flight to Saigon shifts gears to the energetic Southern city, offering a mixture of modern skyscrapers and war history museums.

Crossing into Cambodia, you’ll experience the Mekong Delta, a lush network of rivers and floating markets that reveal the region’s agricultural heartbeat. The half-day visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City is a stark reminder of Vietnam’s wartime history, offering a fascinating, if sobering, insight into guerrilla warfare.

The journey continues with a bus ride to Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital, where you’ll explore the Royal Palace and the Killing Fields — powerful sites that deepen understanding of Cambodia’s turbulent past. Finally, the grand finale is the Angkor Archaeological Park, home to Angkor Wat and other magnificent temples. This part of the trip perfectly blends archaeological wonder with local life and spirituality.

The Itinerary in Detail

Days 1-3: Hanoi and Halong Bay

Arriving in Hanoi, you’ll be greeted with private airport pickup. The city’s chaotic charm is instant — think street vendors, motorbikes, and colonial architecture. You’ll have free time to explore or relax before heading to Tuan Chau Island for the Halong Bay cruise.

Boarding the boat, you’ll enjoy views of sail-like limestone karsts rising from emerald waters. The cruise includes stops at Luon Cave, Titov Island, and Sung Sot Cave, offering opportunities for kayaking, swimming, and hiking. Travelers mention being captivated by the stunning scenery and the tranquility of the bay. The Tai Chi session on deck is a peaceful way to start the day, and the onboard meals showcase fresh seafood and local flavors.

Days 4-6: Hanoi to Hoi An and Hue

Returning to Hanoi, you’ll catch a flight to Da Nang, where the next adventure begins. The transfer to Hoi An is picturesque — the route over the Hai Van Pass offers sweeping views of mountains and beaches. In Hoi An, the highlight is the basket boat trip in Cam Thanh Coconut Village, a delightful way to see local life up close. Guests enjoy the chance to interact with fishermen and try paddling in traditional vessels.

Exploring the Ancient Town and landmarks like the Japanese Bridge and Chinese Assembly Hall is like walking through a living museum. The streets are lined with lanterns, and the atmosphere is peaceful, especially in the evenings.

Next, a trip to Khai Dinh Tomb and the Imperial City in Hue offers insight into Vietnam’s imperial past. The architecture and historical significance make these sites memorable, and the scenic drive along Hai Van Pass adds to the experience.

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Days 7-9: Saigon and the Mekong

Flying into Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), you’re greeted with a metropolis that seamlessly blends history, commerce, and culture. The Mekong Delta excursion is a standout activity, featuring a boat ride on the Tien River, visits to fruit gardens, and floating markets. Reviewers mention the unique experience of exploring the floating farms and tasting tropical fruits.

The Cu Chi Tunnels tour offers a visceral look at Vietnam’s wartime underground network, with guides providing detailed explanations of the tunnels’ strategic importance. Some reviews note the long tour duration, but most find it a worthwhile glimpse into history.

Days 10-14: Phnom Penh and Angkor Wat

Travel by shuttle bus to Phnom Penh and explore key sites like the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda. Visiting Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and The Killing Fields can be emotional, but they’re essential for understanding Cambodia’s recent history.

Finally, the trip takes you to Siem Reap, home of Angkor Wat and other incredible temples. The Angkor Thom complex and Ta Prohm, with its giant tree roots, are highlights that truly impress. Visitors often comment on the stunning architecture and magical atmosphere of these ancient ruins.

Final Day and Departure

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport, completing a whirlwind adventure packed with diverse experiences and memorable moments.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

Transportation between destinations is via private cars, flights, and shuttle buses, ensuring a smooth flow between the different regions. The group size isn’t specified but given the nature of guided tours, it’s likely moderate, allowing for personalized attention without feeling crowded. The tour includes some physically active activities like kayaking, walking through temples, and boat rides, so comfort with a bit of exertion is recommended.

Value and Cost Analysis

At $662 per person, this tour offers a compelling package that covers most major highlights without hidden costs. The price includes guided tours, transportation, and some meals, which significantly lowers the hassle of planning individual transportation and entry fees.

Given the inclusiveness of activities and the quality of experiences — such as cruising Halong Bay and exploring Angkor Wat — it’s a good value for travelers looking for a well-rounded, immersive trip in Southeast Asia. The guided aspect also ensures you get in-depth insights that would be difficult to replicate independently.

Final Thoughts

This 14-day tour balances a packed itinerary with enough downtime to enjoy each location. It’s ideal for first-time visitors eager to see Vietnam and Cambodia’s top sights, with a mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and vibrant city life. The inclusion of activities like boat trips and visits to local villages adds authenticity to the experience.

While the schedule is ambitious, it’s designed for travelers who love exploring and don’t mind a bit of travel fatigue. If you’re looking for a thoughtfully organized, value-for-money adventure that reveals the diversity and charm of Southeast Asia, this tour is worth considering.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

• First-timers wanting a broad overview of Vietnam and Cambodia
• Travelers comfortable with a busy pace and some long travel days
• Those interested in cultural, historical, and scenic experiences
• Travelers looking for guided support and organized logistics
• People eager to visit iconic sites like Angkor Wat and Halong Bay in one trip

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 3 years or those with mobility issues, due to the active nature and long travel days.

Are flights included?
Yes, you’ll take flights from Hanoi to Da Nang and from Da Nang to Saigon as part of the itinerary.

What should I bring?
Bring a passport or ID, comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and cash — especially for small purchases.

Are meals included?
Most meals are included, particularly during the cruise and temple visits, but additional expenses for meals may occur in free time.

What is the group size?
The exact group size isn’t specified, but guided tours typically group travelers in moderate-sized groups for a more personal experience.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour bilingual?
The tour is conducted in English with a live guide.

What activities are included?
Activities include cruising Halong Bay, visiting caves and temples, a basket boat trip, the Mekong Delta boat ride, and exploring markets and historical sites.

Are physical activities demanding?
Some activities like kayaking, walking through temples, and boat rides may require moderate exertion. Be prepared for these.

Do I need a visa?
Yes, ensure your visa for Vietnam and Cambodia is valid before traveling.

This detailed exploration shows that this 14-day tour offers a fantastic chance to see Southeast Asia’s highlights in a balanced, organized way. Whether you’re captivated by natural landscapes, historical sites, or lively cities, this experience packs it all into a manageable itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: