Angkor Temple & Mekong Delta

Route: Mekong Delta - Siem Reap - Phnom Penh - Saigon

Highlights

Angkor Temples and Mekong Delta Tour is a perfect introduction to the essences of Cambodia and Southern Vietnam. Starting in Siem Reap, you will discover the magnificent temples of Angkor, visit the historic sites of Phnom Penh before boarding Victoria Mekong Cruise. The three-night deluxe cruise down the Mekong River is a highlight of this tour, as you will have fantastic opportunities to get deep insights into the local daily life. You will experience the vibrancy of Sai Gon and learn about the role of the Cu Chi Tunnels during the Vietnam War at the end of the journey. The Angkor Temples and Mekong Delta tour can be operated in reversed order, departing in Sai Gon and concluding in Siem Reap. Please contact us if you wish to book reversed itinerary.

Angkor Temple & Mekong Delta

Route: Mekong Delta - Siem Reap - Phnom Penh - Saigon

Highlights

Details

Brief itinerary

Day 1: Siem Reap Arrival

Day 2: Angkor Temples

Day 3: Angkor Temples

Day 4: Tónle Lake

Day 5: Phnom Penh

Day 6: Cruise Embarkation

Day 7: Mekong Delta

Day 8: Mekong Delta

Day 9: Disembarkation

Day 10: Cu Chi Tunnels

Day 11: Departure

Day 1: Siem Reap Arrival

Welcome to Siem Reap, the Kingdom of Wonder. Upon your arrival in Siem Reap, you will be welcomed by our local English-speaking guide and transferred to your hotel for check in and relax.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Day 2: Angkor Temples (B/L)

Breakfast in hotel. Spend full day exploring the most fabled temples in the Small Circuit of Angkor Archaeological Park.

This morning explore the ancient city of Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Great Khmer Empire under the reign of Jayavarman VII in late 12^th century. Angkor Thom is an almost square city surrounded by a stonewall, 8m high and 12 kilometers long, with five entrance gates (two in the east wall). Each gate is carved with three giant faces and is flanked by 54 gods on the left and 54 demons on the right of its causeway.

Continue to the Bayon Temple, the centerpiece of Angkor Thom complex. The structure encompasses 54 towers that are decorated with 216 smiling stone faces. Next proceed to the Baphuon Temple nearby. The 11^th century pyramid–style temple was probably among the most impressive of the Angkor temples in its day. Climb steep stairs to the upper terrace of the temple and enjoy great views from there. Follow by a visit to the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King, both known for their intricate bas-reliefs.

After lunch, have a short break before heading to the magnificent Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument. The architectural masterpiece was built in the 12^th century, took 30 years to complete and represents the Khmer civilization at it grandest. Crowned by five towers, with elaborate bas-reliefs and a profusion of statues, Angkor Wat is enthralling. The temple is the national symbol of Cambodia and proudly appears on the country’s flag.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Day 3: Angkor Temples (B/L)

Breakfast in hotel. Spend full day of adventure to the most beautiful temples in Grand Circuit of Angkor Archaeological Park.

Visit to one of the most picturesque Angkor temples, Ta Prohm. Built in the mid 12^th to early 13^th centuries during the reign of Jayavarman VII, Ta Prohm is unique in that it remains largely overgrown by jungle. Continue to another temple built during the reign of Jayavarman VII, Preah Khan. While Ta Prohm was built to honour the king’s mother, Preah Khan was built for his father. Preah Khan is less visited and more unrestored, and therefore offers more of a “Tomb Raider” experience.

If time permits, visit the temples of Banteay Kdei and Takeo nearby. Both are peaceful and quite in contrast to other famous temples. Built by King Jayavarman VII, Banteay Kdei means “A Citadel of Chambers”. This photogenic temple is actually made up of a fascinating maze of chambers. Takeo is the first temple built entirely in sandstone during the reign of King Jayavarman V (968 - 1001). As one of the tallest monuments of Angkor, its five sanctuaries are placed on top of a 22-meter high stepped pyramid, offering good views of the surrounding area.

This afternoon travel to the countryside to see the hidden gem of the Angkor Archaeological Park, the beautiful temple of Banteay Srey. Banteay Srey is unique in that it is constructed of pink sandstone, which is seen nowhere else in the park. This small temple is noted for its truly remarkable fine bas-reliefs. Because of its remote location, the temple is often passed over by visitors but is probably the best-preserved monument of the entire Angkor complex.

On the way back to Siem Reap, visit the charming temple of Ta Som. It was built in the Bayon style and has been well restored. One of the most prominent features of this temple is the huge strangler fig tree, which has engulfed the eastern gate, providing excellent photo opportunities.

Our last stop today is Pre Rup temple. Climb up to the top level of this ancient temple and enjoy sunset over the temples and the jungle.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Day 4: Tonlé Lake (B/L)

After breakfast, drive past expansive rice fields and through local villages to the Tonlé Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. Take a relaxing boat trip along a canal that lead to lake, visit a floating fishing village and observe the vibrant daily life of the locals.

The last visit of our journey is the Angkor Silk Farm, where you can witness the entire process of silk creation from the breeding process and life cycle of the silkworm to the spinning of the silk, the dying process and the creation of beautiful silk weavings on wooden hand looms.

Stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Free at your own leisure till transfer to the airport for your short flight to Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia.

Overnight in Phnom Penh.

Day 5: Phnom Penh (B/L)

The charming capital of Phnom Penh was once known as the “Pearl of the Orient” for its French colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards and scenic riverwalk. Spend this day to discover the capital city of Cambodia.

This morning visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is the memorial site of the S-21 interrogation and detention center of the Khmer Rouge regime. Located in the heart of Phnom Penh, it preserves a tragic period in history with the aim to encourage visitors to be messengers of peace.

Continue to the Toul Tompoung Market (Russian Market). The market became popular among the Russian expats during the 1980s, hence the name. Now it is the most popular market among tourists and expats and probably the best place to pick up souvenirs.

Have lunch in a local restaurant. This afternoon visit the Royal Palace, one of Phnom Penh’s most iconic landmarks. Set on the bank of Tonlé Sap River, the palace began to be built in 1886 after King Norodom relocated the royal capital to Phnom Penh and was completed before World War I. Up until today the palace is the primary residence of the King of Cambodia. Next, visit the close-by Silver Pagoda (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). This extraordinary structure is named for its floor, which is covered by 5,000 silver tiles each weighing 1 kilogram. The pagoda houses an extraordinary collection of Buddhas in gold, silver, crystal, and bronze.

Continue to the National Museum of Cambodia, just north of the Royal Place. Built in traditional Khmer style, the museum is home to the world’s finest collection of Khmer sculpture from the 4^th to the 13^th centuries. Over 5,000 pieces are on display, constituting the repository of the Kingdom's cultural wealth.

If time permits, walk up the small hillside to Wat Phnom, serving as a religious sanctuary for prayers and offerings since 1373.

Overnight in Phnom Penh.

Day 6: Cruise Embarkation (B/D)

This morning free at leisure until tranfer to the pier. Against the backdrop of a traditional musical performance, board the Victoria Mekong cruise ship at Sisowath Quay, Phnom Penh’s downtown riverside promenade. As the sun sets on the Tonle Sap River, linger over a sundowner on the sun deck while taking in a performance of Khmer Apsara dancing by a troupe of local dancers with the opportunity to meet them afterward. As day turns into night, sit down to a gala dinner to officially welcome you aboard your Victoria Mekong Cruise. Tonight, the ship overnights in Phnom Penh.

Day 7: Mekong Delta (B/L/D)

As the ship begins cruising towards the Cambodia-Vietnam border, enjoy breakfast in the restaurant. After, select from the many on-board activities including a ship’s tour, cocktail competition and cultural lecture. After lunch, the ship sails into Vietnamese waters and anchors in Tan Chau. Tender sampans to visit fish farms and Taoist Temple. Return on board in time for a traditional Vietnamese lion dance. After dinner, enjoy the evening’s entertainment.

Day 8: Mekong Delta (B/L/D)

Wake up to another leisurely breakfast as the ship cruises towards the provincial capital of Long Xuyen in the Mekong Delta. Tender ashore to visit the colorful Long Xuyen Floating Market and the An Giang Museum, with fascinating exhibits on Vietnamese, Chinese, Khmer and Cham cultures in the region. Return to the ship and enjoy lunch as we cruise towards Tan Loc Island where a selection of shore excursions awaits, including tea served in a historic century-old house featuring Chinese, French and Vietnamese architectural elements, visiting an orchard for a taste of exotic fruits from the Mekong Delta, and traveling to a local farm where plum wine is made. Return to the ship and cruise towards Can Tho, the beating heart of the Mekong Delta. Enjoy a final farewell dinner accompanied by a traditional Southern Vietnamese folk music performance known as "Đờn ca tài tử".

Overnight in Can Tho.

Day 9: Disembarkation (B/L)

After an early snack, board the Mekong Princess and experience Can Tho’s famed floating market, the largest in the Mekong Delta with dozens of boats laden with fruit and vegetables from the region. Return to the ship where breakfast is served while cruising to Can Tho Port and check out. Board a coach for Cai Be where lunch is served at the elegant Le Longanier Restaurant set amidst lush fruit trees by the river. Continue to Ho Chi Minh City by coach, arriving in late afternoon.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 10: Cu Chi Tunels (B/L)

Depart from your hotel to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, an incredible underground tunnel network constructed by Vietnamese resistance fighters (Viet Cong) during both the French and American wars. Hear the tales of how these tunnels were built while walking through the forest. Visit two sections of the tunnel where it is possible to crawl inside to experience first-hand what life was like living underground. There are also several other informative displays and war relics around the area to explore.

Return to Ho Chi Minh City at noon and enjoy a late lunch.

This afternoon, continue to visit to the city’s most iconic building: the Reunification Hall. Formerly called the Presidential Palace, images of the building were seen around the world on 30 April 1975 when tanks stormed the gates as Saigon fell to the North Vietnamese. Then take a stroll to Ho Chi Minh City’s colonial quarter, walking past scenes of everyday life on the way. Admire the beautiful architecture of the Sai Gon Opera House, the City Hall, the Old Saigon Post Office. Hear about the glory days of French Indochina and how that era continues to influence aspects of modern Vietnamese culture.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 11: Departure (B)

Enjoy the morning at leisure. Your guide will meet you at your hotel and transfer you to the airport for your onward flight home or next destinations. If you have more time, don't miss a chance to take a beach escape in Vietnam.

Special Rates

Services included

Services not included

Terms & Conditions

PAYMENTS

A deposit of 30% of the total booking is required within three days from the date of confirmation. The balance payment is due at 45 days prior to tour commencement date. For bookings made less than 45 days, full payment is required. Bookings will be cancelled if payments are not received by the due date(s).

Payment can be made via bank transfer or credit cards. In addition to the total payable amount, credit card payments will incur a merchant fee of 2.5% for MasterCard and Visa, 3% for American Express. Any bank charges and merchant fees must be covered by the customer.

CANCELLATIONS

Confirmed bookings must be cancelled by the party leader in writing (by email) and this will only be effective once the written cancellation is confirmed by FantaSea Vietnam. Cancellation by the party leader will be subject to the following cancellation fees from the date the written cancellation is received:

+ more than 45 days prior to tour date - 10% of total cost

+ between 31 and 45 days prior to tour date - 25% of total cost

+ between 16 and 30 days prior to tour date - 50% of total cost

+ within 15 days prior to tour date or “no show” - 100% of total cost.

AMENDMENTS

Any amendments to confirmed bookings must be requested by the party leader in writing (by email). Whilst we will endeavor to assist, we cannot guarantee that requests will be met. If we can make the requested change, you will be provided with a quote detailing any additional costs, whether incurred due to your amendments, imposed by a Third-Party Travel Provider, or our amendment fees. In all cases, the following amendment fees shall apply:

+ If amendments are made more than 45 days prior to scheduled tour date: the first amendment is free of charge. From the second amendment: a charge of U$80 per amendment for a short trip (less than 7 nights) or U$150 per amendment for a long journey (7 nights or more).

+ If amendments are made within 45 days prior to scheduled tour date: the above standard cancellation fees will apply, and full price will apply to new travel arrangements.

We will not charge any cancellation/amendment fees if it is due to a breach by us of any of our obligations or due to our fault; or if the Third-Party Travel Provider amends your booking through no fault of the customer.

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