TYPOLOGIES

Culture Tour

DIFFICULTY

MIN. AGE

Tour Overview:

This is not merely a tour. It is a slow, immersive journey through the watery heart of the Mekong Delta and into the ancient soul of Cambodia. Overland and along the river, you will witness two nations connected by the same great waterway—yet each with its own rhythm, its own spirit, and its own stories to tell.

From the coconut groves of Ben Tre to the floating markets of Can Tho, from the cave pagoda of Chau Doc to the glittering spires of Phnom Penh, from the artistic lanes of Battambang to the ancient stones of Angkor—this overland journey traces the Mekong's path through two nations, revealing the beauty, resilience, and spirit of the people who call its banks home.

You began in the bustling heart of Saigon. You end in the timeless wonder of Siem Reap. But the Mekong will stay with you forever.

Itinerary in brief :

DAY DESTINATION MEAL CITIES
Day 1 Xin Chao “Hello” Vietnam Saigon
Day 2 Saigon – Ben Tre (home-stay) B/L/D Ben Tre
Day 3 Ben Tre – Can Tho B/L Can Tho
Day 4 Can Tho – Chau Doc B Chau Doc
Day 5 Goodbye Vietnam & Hello Cambodia B Phnom Penh
Day 6 Phnom Penh‘s Past & Present B Phnom Penh
Day 7 Phnom Penh – Battambang B Battambang
Day 8 Battambang – Siem Reap B Siem Reap
Day 9 Preah Khan & Banteay Srei B/D Siem Reap
Day 10 Angkor Highlight B/L Siem Reap
Day 11 Tonle Sap Lake & Countryside Explorer B/L Siem Reap
Day 12 Goodbye Cambodia B Siem Reap

*B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

Itinerary in details:

Upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh City—the vibrant metropolis once known as Saigon and lovingly called the "Pearl of the Far East"—you will be warmly welcomed by your local guide and transferred to your hotel.

The remainder of the day is yours to discover Vietnam's largest city at your own pace. Stroll along its wide, elegant boulevards, where the energy of modern Vietnam mingles with the grace of a bygone era. Admire the historic French colonial buildings that stand as timeless witnesses to the city's rich and complex past—ornate post offices, grand cathedrals, and stately government halls.

Whether you choose to explore a bustling market, sip a cup of traditional Vietnamese coffee at a sidewalk café, or simply wander and absorb the electric atmosphere, this day is yours to shape.

Overnight at your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.

Depart from your hotel at 8:00 am and journey south to Ben Tre Province, a hidden gem nestled deep within the Mekong Delta.

Upon arrival at Hung Vuong Pier—located approximately 90 kilometers from Saigon—you will board a traditional boat and begin your cruise along the Ben Tre River, a tranquil waterway lined with lush coconut palms and stilted village homes.

Your first stop is a local artisanal brick factory, where you will witness the time-honored craft of clay brickmaking. Marvel at the imposing ovens that have fired these bricks for generations, their heat a testament to the enduring spirit of the Delta's people.

Next, you will visit a coconut candy workshop, where the humble coconut is transformed into sweet, chewy treats. Sit down for a refreshing teatime break and learn how coconut flesh is carefully extracted, cooked, and processed into a variety of delicious products—from candy to cooking oil to natural fibers.

Midday: Countryside Exploration & Local Lunch

After your sweet interlude, you will continue your journey by bicycle or tuk-tuk—a charming local vehicle that seats up to six passengers. Pedal or ride along narrow village lanes, past emerald rice paddies and fruit-laden orchards. You will stop to visit a family-run mat-weaving workshop, where skilled hands transform reeds and grasses into beautifully patterned sleeping mats using traditional looms.

Lunch will be served at a local riverside restaurant, featuring typical Mekong Delta dishes: fresh river fish, caramelized pork, tropical vegetables, and the famous elephant-ear fish, all bursting with authentic regional flavors.

Afternoon: Rowing Through the Mangroves

In the afternoon, you will board a small rowing boat and glide into a network of narrow canals, shaded by the dense canopy of water coconut trees. As your boat gently drifts through this labyrinth of arroyos, you will experience the Delta at its most serene—the only sounds being the splash of oars and the distant laughter of children playing along the riverbanks.

Your journey through the waterways will eventually return you to the landing stage, where the day's adventures come to a close.

Evening: Homestay Experience

Tonight, you will leave behind the comforts of a hotel and embrace the warmth of local hospitality with an overnight homestay. Settle into a traditional stilt house, share a home-cooked dinner with your hosts, and fall asleep to the gentle lullaby of the Mekong River—an authentic and unforgettable end to your day in the Delta.

Morning Discovery: Sampans, Bicycles & Coconut Workers

After feasting on a homemade breakfast prepared by your hosts, you will begin your day by crossing a peaceful arm of the Mekong River aboard a traditional sampan boat—a shallow, wooden vessel that has been the lifeblood of Delta transport for centuries.

Once across, you will hop onto a bicycle for a gentle ride through the countryside. This is the heart of the Mekong Delta, and the path winds slowly past pretty traditional houses—some painted in soft pastels, others shaded by bougainvillea and banana trees.

Along the way, you will make several stops beside narrow canals to observe coconut workers in action. Watch as they skillfully husk, split, and process coconuts using techniques passed down through generations. The air is filled with the sweet scent of fresh coconut and the quiet rhythm of rural life.

Leaving your sampan crew near the small town of Cho Thom, you will then take the road back toward Can Tho—the bustling capital of the Mekong Delta.

Midday: A Touch of Cinema – Binh Thuy Old House

The afternoon continues with a visit to the Binh Thuy Old House, a beautifully preserved 19th-century mansion surrounded by ancient trees and lotus ponds. This elegant villa holds a special place in cinematic history: it was the primary filming location for the 1992 film "L'Amant" (The Lover), an adaptation of the famous novel by French author Marguerite Duras.

As you wander through its ornate rooms and shaded gardens, you can almost hear the whispers of the star-crossed lovers whose story unfolded within these very walls—a romantic and haunting interlude in your Delta journey.

Afternoon Free: Explore Can Tho at Your Own Pace

The remainder of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. You may choose to explore the shops and markets near the port, where vendors sell everything from fresh tropical fruit and fragrant spices to handwoven textiles and local handicrafts. It is the perfect opportunity to find a unique souvenir or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this lively riverfront city.

Overnight in Can Tho.

Daybreak on the Delta: Cai Rang Floating Market & Orchard Delights

In the early morning, you will embark on an unforgettable excursion to Cai Rang Floating Market—the largest and most vibrant floating market in the entire Mekong Delta region. Every day at dawn, hundreds of wooden boats converge here, each laden with tropical fruits, fresh vegetables, and local goods. Vendors hang their produce from long poles, silently advertising their wares as the sun rises over the water. Drift among the bustling vessels, sip a coconut coffee, and witness a way of life that has remained unchanged for generations.

After the market, it is time to stretch your legs with a peaceful walk through one of the lush orchards of Mr. Tu Dung. Here, beneath a canopy of pomelo, rambutan, and longan trees, you will be invited to enjoy a selection of fresh tropical fruits—sweet, fragrant, and freshly picked. You will also visit a local vermicelli factory, where you can observe how rice is transformed into delicate strands of bĂșn, a staple of Vietnamese cuisine.

From there, you will return to the mainland and begin your scenic drive toward Chau Doc.

Midday: Stork Sanctuary & Enchanted Forest

Along the way, you will stop at the Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary, a peaceful haven near Can Tho. Climb the viewing platform overlooking the forest, and prepare to be mesmerized. Hundreds of storks and herons nest among the treetops, their white wings filling the sky as they return from their daily feeding. The sight and sound are truly breath-taking.

One final stop awaits before Chau Doc: the magical Tra Su Forest, a submerged cajuput (melaleuca) forest that feels like something from a dream. This pure ecosystem is home to over 70 bird species, 140 plant species, and 20 reptile species, all thriving within its flooded realm. You will glide silently by boat across a river completely covered by a living carpet of water lentils, lotus hearts, and water lilies. The stillness is profound; the only sounds are the splash of oars and the distant call of wild birds.

For a spectacular panoramic view of the forest stretching all the way to the Cambodian border, you may choose to climb the six floors of the observation tower. From this height, the emerald canopy of cajuput trees stretches endlessly toward the horizon—a truly unforgettable sight.

Afternoon: Chau Doc & The Cave Pagoda

Arriving in Chau Doc, you will visit the remarkable Chua Hang Pagoda (The Cave Pagoda) , perched on the slopes of Mount Sam but also carved into the mountain itself. This exceptional pagoda blends the diverse cultural and religious influences of the region—Vietnamese, Khmer, and Chinese traditions woven into a single sacred space.

The architecture is unlike any other: shrines nestled within natural rock crevices, hidden grottoes, and winding stone staircases. The panoramic view from the pagoda, overlooking the rice fields, floating villages, and the distant border with Cambodia, is worthy of a cinematic setting.

Overnight in Chau Doc.

After breakfast, we transfer to boat pier for departure to Phnom Penh by speedboat (leave 7:00am arrive Phnom Penh around 12:00). Meet our driver and transfer to the hotel.

Upon arrival at Phnom Penh port, meet your driver and transfer to hotel for check-in after which you are free at leisure for the rest of the evening.

Overnight in Phnom Penh.

Phnom Penh, Cambodia's vibrant capital city, offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and architectural marvels. A Phnom Penh city tour allows you to delve into the city's heart, exploring its iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and vibrant local life.

 

Morning Delights:

  • Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda: Be mesmerized by the grandeur of the Royal Palace, the official residence of the Cambodian King. Marvel at the intricate architecture and learn about Cambodian royalty. Next door, explore the Silver Pagoda, adorned with a gleaming silver floor and housing priceless Buddha statues.
  • National Museum: Immerse yourself in Cambodian history and art at the National Museum. Explore fascinating exhibits showcasing artifacts from the Angkor era and other periods, providing insights into the rich cultural heritage of Cambodia.

 

Afternoon Exploration:

  • Central Market (Phsar Thmey): Indulge in your senses at the bustling Central Market, a shopper's paradise. Wander through the labyrinthine alleys filled with stalls overflowing with local crafts, souvenirs, clothing, and Cambodian delicacies. Be sure to try your bargaining skills!
  • Next, we head to visit Wat Phnom: Ascend the scenic Phnom Penh Hill, where Wat Phnom, a Buddhist temple with a long history, sits atop. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and experience the tranquillity of the temple grounds.
  • We will enjoy a cruise for view sunset on the Mekong and Tonle Sap River (1 hour). Situated at the “Four Arms” where the Mekong meets the Tonle Sap River before splitting into two branches, Phnom Penh offers the ideal location to discover the mighty Mekong.

 

Overnight in Phnom Penh.

After breakfast, we depart in a north-west direction to Battambang, first stop at Phnom Udong, the ancient Cambodian capital during the latter stages of the Khmer Empire and crowning site of many past kings. Consisting of a series of stupas atop a large hill, there are outstanding views across the surrounding plains below. Phnom Udong was bombed and desecrated by the Americans and then the Khmer Rouge, but still possesses a beauty that no war has been able to steal from it.

Having had time to explore, continue to Kompong Chhnang, taking the time to stop at a pottery village before continuing further north to Pursat Province, famous for its marble stone carvings.

Departure to Phnom Sampeu Mountain to catch the bats! As darkness falls, we will begin to see thousands of nocturnal bats taking flight from the surrounding caves in a massive formation of dark, black clouds. Be sure to photograph this amazing and staggering sight!

Overnight in Battambang.

After breakfast, we will visit Wat Ta Mem and learn more about the daily life in the pagoda in Cambodia. We also stop at Psar Nat “Battambang local market” before driving to the Bamboo Railway Station. The Bamboo Train has been set up by the villagers to facilitate the transportation of goods and people. The train in itself is very basic – one platform on 4 wheels activated by a small motor. Sitting on the platform we travel the 8km to the next station through beautiful landscape and rice paddies.

We travel further to the well-preserved 11th century mountaintop Angkorian temple of Phnom Banan. After climbing the 350+ steps you are treated to a wonderfully peaceful setting with superb views across the surrounding countryside, with small villages dotting the endless rice paddies, punctuated with the characteristic sugar palm trees a wonderful sunset location.

We leave Battambang and drive towards Siem Reap. Stopping at Puok District to visit the National Silk Centre, a fascinating way to learn about Cambodian silk. Here we will spend some time and witness start-to-finish silk creation, growing and harvesting mulberry and the breeding process and the life cycle of the silk worm.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

After breakfast, we depart for 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.

We will visit the Landmine Museum where Mr. Aki Ra, a child soldier in the Khmer Rouge, has dedicated his life to helping those in need. Having spent most of his childhood fighting for the Khmer Rouge, Mr. Aki Ra was trained by the United Nations to detonate land mines; His fantastic work earned him a nomination for CNN Hero of the Year in 2010. They will stop at a local village to visit the families that are producing palm sugar.

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.

 

Dinner with Apsara Dance show at local restaurant.

For those travelers thirsting for cultural highlights of Cambodia, no visit to Cambodia is complete without attending at least one traditional Khmer dance performance, often referred to as 'Apsara Dance' after one of the most popular Classical dance pieces. Traditional Khmer dance better described as 'dance-drama' in that the dances are not merely dance but also meant to convey a story or message.

 

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 "Tomb Raider" fame. Ta Prohm has been abandoned to the elements, a reminder that while empires rise and fall, the riotous power of nature marches on, oblivious to the dramas of human history. Left as it was ‘discovered’ by French explorer Henri Mouhout in 1860, the tentacle-like tree roots here are slowly strangling the surviving stones, man first conquering nature to create, nature later conquering man to destroy.

 

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.

We 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. We 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. We go to local pagoda, where you should change to clothes, we can get wet in as here we will experience the ceremony “Srouch Teok”, which roughly translates into “Water blessing”. A monk will chant in ancient Pali as he splashes water over us, washing away our sins and bad luck so we can start fresh and by being a good person can increase our good luck.

Go beyond the temples and dive into authentic Cambodian life with this extended quad bike adventure. Ride through scenic countryside, explore local communities, and experience culture, nature, and adventure—all in one unforgettable journey.

Ride away from the main roads and into the heart of rural life. You'll drive along dirt paths and narrow lanes shaded by palm trees, passing wooden stilt houses, vibrant gardens, and locals going about their day. The flat terrain makes for an easy, scenic ride suitable for all fitness levels.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Transfer to Siem Reap airport for departure to next destination. It’s time to say goodbye, we thank you for traveling with us and warmly welcome you to come again.

Services

What’s include :

TOUR COST INCLUDES:

TOUR COST NOT INCLUDES:

✅ Accommodation: 11-nights with daily breakfast in double / twin shared room

✅ Meals: at local restaurant (Foods only) as mentioned in program (B: Breakfast, L: Lunch and D: Dinner)

✅ Private Transportation: Airport transfers & Tours by air con. vehicles as per program.

✅ Private boat trip as mentioned in program.

✅ Entrance fees: Sightseeing and entrance fees as specified as mentioned in program.

✅ Private Tour Guide: Local English-speaking guide during tours as mentioned in program

✅ Boat ticket: Chau Doc – Phnom Penh

✅ All government taxes.

✅ 24hours supporting hotline.

✅ Cold water and towel during tours

❌ Cambodia & Vietnam Visa stamp fee (if any)

❌ All International air tickets.

❌ Other meal, drink, personal expenses, tip, Travel insurance,

❌ Early check-in & late check-out surcharge.

❌ International bank transfer fees (Banking fee is covered by the sender)

❌ Another thing not mentioned in included

GENERAL NOTICE:

  • Standard check-in time is 14h00 and check-out time is 12h00 at most of the hotels.
  • Arrival/Departure: Above prices are valid only for group of clients travelling together – arrival and departure with the same flight. Arrival/departure by other flight subject to supplement charge.
  • Program is subject to change without notice due to Airlines unexpected changes of schedule or flight unexpected cancellations.
  • There will be no refund or compensation applied due to force major which effect to visit program.
  • We reserve the right to adjust the prices at any time in the event of an increase of the fuel surcharge applied by airlines companies or any other transport companies.
  • Deadline for flight tickets: We will automatically issue flights 5 days after bookings is confirmed by us, please take note and come back to me within 5 days since booking is confirmed if you find clients don’t want to issue it.

 

Consultant/Emergency Contact:

EURASIE Travel “Best for the Best“ – Head office

#AC04, Street 59CW, Borey Sopheak Meangkul, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

info@eurasietravel.com.kh / www.eurasietravel.com.kh

 

Hot lines:

+ Mr. Bonny: (+855) 12 608 108 (WHATSAPP)

    ” Possiamo dire che ù stata la luna di miele perfetta. Abbiamo avuto la possibilità di entrare a stretto contatto con la gente locale, di vivere diverse esperienze molto interessanti e di visitare dei posti fantastici. Tutto era organizzato in maniera perfetta grazie anche al validissimo supporto del nostro corrispondente Roberto, che non ci ha mai lasciati soli. Da dietro le quinte ci ha assistito per tutta la durata del nostro magnifico viaggio di nozze, dandoci un valido supporto per qualsiasi cosa. Le guide e i drivers erano sempre puntuali, cordiali, molto disponibili e molto preparati. Difficile dire in una sola frase cosa ci sia piaciuto. In una sola parola: TUTTO. L’organizzazione pre e durante il nostro viaggio ù stata ineccepibile. Non possiamo che ringraziare Roberto ed Eurasie per questa meravigliosa esperienza.”

    Erika e Andrea

    Tour Vietnam & Cambogia