Private Journey Details
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Indochina on a journey to Vietnam and Cambodia. In Vietnam, view Hanoi’s colonial architecture, stroll the pristine coastline of China Beach near Da Nang, and explore the former capital of Hue. In Cambodia, visit Angkor Wat, the center of the legendary Khmer Empire, and watch the sun set over its extraordinary temples.Trip Highlights
- Embark on a private cruise on the pristine Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Meet James Sullivan, author of the National Geographic Traveler guidebook to Vietnam, in Hue.
- Delve into the world of the Khmer as you explore the stunning temple complex of Angkor Wat in Cambodia.
- Ride a bike through the picturesque streets of the 16th-century Vietnamese seaport of Hoi An.
- Take an optional photography excursion with John McDermott, who has documented World Heritage sites throughout Southeast Asia.
Itinerary - 12 Days
Days 1 & 2 — U.S./Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Depart on an overnight flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel.
Park Hyatt Saigon
Day 3 — Ho Chi Minh City
This morning, follow your local guide into the elaborate Cu Chi tunnel network, a virtual underground city dug by Viet Cong forces during the Vietnam War. Then visit Reunification Palace, the scene of pivotal events during the fall of Saigon. Stop by the colonial Central Post Office, and examine exquisitely carved figurines at the Jade Emperor Pagoda. Wander through Saigon Botanical Gardens, which showcase the flora of Southeast Asia.
(B,L)
Day 4 — Ho Chi Minh City/Hue/Hoi An
Travel to Hue, Vietnam's former capital, founded on the banks of the Perfume River in the early 17th century. Meet your guide and visit the Imperial Citadel and Tu Duc's Tomb. Then join author James Sullivan for lunch and a discussion on Vietnam today. Travel overland to Hoi An, a quiet riverside town where traditional lifestyle and Chinese architecture remain virtually unspoiled, and enjoy the afternoon at leisure.
The Nam Hai (B,L)
Day 5 — Hoi An
Hoi An was an important seaport from the 16th century to late 19th century and is one of Vietnam's five UNESCO World Heritage sites. Pedal the charming streets by bicycle this afternoon in the company of your local guide.
(B)
Day 6 — Hoi An/Hanoi
Fly via Da Nang to Hanoi. Meet your guide for an afternoon spin around the bustling Old Quarter in a traditional cycle rickshaw, passing through residential districts and local markets. Tonight, attend a water puppet show.
Sofitel Metropole Hanoi (B)
Day 7 — Hanoi/Ha Long Bay/Hanoi
Journey overland with your guide to Ha Long Bay, an emerald bay dotted with 3,000 limestone islets. Discover the dramatic rocks and caves of this UNESCO World Heritage site on a private cruise, and enjoy lunch on board.
(B,L)
Day 8 — Hanoi
Accompanied by your private guide, step into Ho Chi Minh's mausoleum; view contemporary sculpture, engravings, and lacquer paintings at the Fine Arts Museum; visit the One Pillar Pagoda; and explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university, established in 1076.
(B,L)
Day 9 — Hanoi/Siem Reap, Cambodia
After a morning to relax or explore Hanoi on your own, transfer to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap. Upon arrival, check into your historic hotel.
Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor (B)
Day 10 — Angkor
This morning, venture out with your private guide to the picturesque ruins of Ta Prohm, still entangled with overgrown vegetation. Continue into the fortified city of Angkor Thom, once the seat of power of the Khmer Empire. Gaze at the giant carved faces of the Bayon Temple, and visit the Terraces of the Leper King and the Elephants. If you choose, join an optional excursion with photographer John McDermott, who has documented World Heritage sites throughout Southeast Asia and will help you capture this magnificent destination in your own photos. This afternoon, explore the enormous pyramid temple of Angkor Wat, built in the early 12th century for King Suryavarman II. This evening, return to Angkor Wat for sunset.
(B,L)
Day 11 — Siem Reap
This morning, explore the tenth-century Banteay Srei temple with your guide. After lunch, take a private tour of the Preah Khan monastic complex.
(B,L)
Day 12 — Siem Reap/U.S.
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight to the U.S.
(B)
For more information on this National Geographic Private Journey, please call 1-866-572-1563.
Optional Extension
- Bangkok, Thailand - Post-Trip Extension, 4 Days
National Geographic Private Journeys are unique itineraries designed for independent travelers. You'll explore fascinating places with private guides, and wherever possible, meet National Geographic experts at work in the field.
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Private Journey Costs
A holiday surcharge of $500 per person double occupancy and $800 per person single occupancy applies to December 10, 17, and 31 departures.
ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY
Throughout your journey, you'll be accompanied by private guides as noted in the itinerary. Accommodations in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi are five-star properties, chosen for their ideal locations. The Nam Hai in Hoi An is a boutique hotel with lush gardens and personal cottages. Raffles Grand Hotel D'Angkor is a luxury hotel, located in the center of Siem Reap, with excellent service and amenities. The photography excursion with John McDermott is offered at an additional cost; all other activities noted in the itinerary are included in the price.
Learn more about our accommodations.
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