Vietnam-Cambodia-Laos Discovery: 16 Days, 15 Nights

If you’re craving a journey that combines bustling cities, ancient temples, scenic waterways, and authentic local culture, this 16-day guided tour covers all that and more. For $831 per person, you’ll traverse Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos, visiting iconic sights like Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Angkor Wat, and Luang Prabang. It’s a packed itinerary, but one designed to give you a comprehensive taste of Southeast Asia’s most celebrated highlights.

What we particularly love about this experience is how well it balances guided sightseeing with free time—giving you the chance to soak in the atmosphere at your own pace. Plus, the inclusion of amazing landscapes, from the limestone karsts of Halong Bay to the waterfalls of Laos, makes it a visual feast. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves multiple flights and some moderate physical activity, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a fairly full schedule.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to explore multiple countries in one go, especially those who enjoy cultural sights coupled with natural beauty. It offers great value for a multi-country experience, provided you’re ready for some busy days.

Key Points

• Covers three Southeast Asian countries in 16 days, including city and countryside experiences
• Highlights include Halong Bay, Angkor Wat, and Kuang Si Waterfall, offering diverse scenery and activities
• Includes multiple flights, making internal travel swift but requiring good planning
• Balance of guided tours and free time allows for both exploration and personal discovery
• Affordable price point of around $831 offers good value for an extensive multi-country tour
• Suitable for active travelers comfortable with some physical activities and travel logistics

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting in Hanoi: The Gateway to Vietnam

The journey begins in Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi, a city where old-world charm meets a buzzing modern vibe. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with a private transfer to your hotel, giving you some time to relax or wander the streets. Hanoi’s narrow alleyways, colonial architecture, and street food stalls make it a perfect start for your adventure.

The first day’s relaxed pace helps you acclimate, while the promise of exploring Hanoi’s markets and lively neighborhoods later on provides a tantalizing preview of what’s to come.

Day 2 & 3: Cruising Through the Spectacular Halong Bay

Two days are dedicated to Halong Bay, one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic sights. The tour includes a cruise on a comfortable boat that takes you past jagged limestone islets and floating villages. Activities like kayaking, swimming, and hiking on Titov Island make the experience active and engaging.

The highlight here is the spectacular scenery—think towering cliffs, hidden caves, and the feeling of drifting in a landscape that feels almost cartoonishly beautiful. You’ll enjoy lunch and dinner onboard, with the night spent beneath the stars.

We loved the morning Tai Chi session, which offered a peaceful start to the day and set a tranquil tone. The Sung Sot Cave tour introduces you to amazing stalactite formations, providing insight into nature’s craftsmanship.

Days 4 & 5: From Hanoi to Hoi An

After returning to Hanoi, you’ll catch a flight to Da Nang, the gateway to Central Vietnam. From there, a short drive takes you to Hoi An—a town of ancient charm with well-preserved architecture and lantern-lit streets.

A visit to Cam Thanh Coconut Village gives you a taste of local river life via a coconut basket boat ride—a fun and authentic experience. In Hoi An’s Old Town, you’ll explore Chinese assembly halls, ancient houses, and the Japanese Bridge, gaining a real sense of the town’s multicultural past.

A evening boat ride on the Hoai River offers a peaceful perspective of the town, especially with lanterns glowing softly—one of those moments you’ll cherish. The town’s laid-back vibe is a nice contrast to Hanoi’s hustle.

Days 6 & 7: Hue and the Imperial Heritage

The journey continues with a drive over the Hai Van Pass—offering spectacular coastal views—to Hue. Here, the emphasis is on history and royal splendor. You’ll visit the Khai Dinh Tomb and the Imperial City, both evocative of Vietnam’s regal past.

These sites reveal the grandeur of Vietnam’s imperial era. The optional climb up Mount Phousi in Luang Prabang (later in the trip) is a similar chance to enjoy panoramic views—a recurring theme of this trip.

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Days 8 & 9: Mekong Delta & Cu Chi Tunnels

In the Mekong Delta, a motorboat ride on the Tien River exposes you to floating markets, fish farms, and lush orchards. The vibrant floating fish farm and honeybee farm are particularly engaging, providing a rare glimpse into rural life.

The Cu Chi Tunnels give you a tangible sense of Vietnam’s wartime history. Our review from travelers highlights that “visiting the tunnels was a real eye-opener,” offering a raw and visceral connection to the country’s past. This half-day tour balances history and a bit of physical activity—crawling through the tunnels if you’re brave enough.

Days 10-12: Siem Reap and the Marvels of Angkor

Flying into Siem Reap, you’ll step into Cambodia’s cultural heart. The Angkor complex is a world-famous site, and we loved the opportunity to visit Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm, and Angkor Wat. The intricate carvings and towering spires make these ruins feel alive, as if they’re whispering stories from centuries ago.

The lunch at a local restaurant offers a taste of Khmer cuisine. Visiting Beng Mealea and Koh Ker adds variety, taking you to less crowded, equally impressive temples amid nature.

Days 13-15: Luang Prabang’s Serenity

Flying into Laos, Luang Prabang’s laid-back charm immediately strikes you. The morning almsgiving ceremony is a deeply moving cultural experience—a peaceful start to the day. You’ll also visit the Royal Palace Museum and hike Mount Phousi for sweeping views of the Mekong River.

The trip’s highlight is the boat trip to Pak Ou Caves, filled with thousands of Buddha statues, and the visit to Kuang Si Waterfall—a perfect spot for photos and quiet reflection amid turquoise pools and cascading falls.

Final Days & Departure

On your last morning, after breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home, carrying memories of stunning landscapes, ancient wonders, and vibrant cultures. The seamless logistics and knowledgeable guides mean you get to focus on enjoying every moment.

At around $831, this tour packs in a vast array of sights and experiences across three countries. The cost covers transport, guided tours, entry fees, and some meals, making it a convenient bundle for travelers looking for a comprehensive Southeast Asia experience without the hassle of planning every detail.

The inclusion of multiple flights speeds up travel between regions, giving you more time at each destination. The guides are fluent in English and Vietnamese, helping make complex sites understandable and enriching your understanding.

While the itinerary is intensive, it offers a well-rounded view—from city streets and bustling markets to waterfront tranquility and ancient temple ruins. The tour is especially appealing to explorers who want to cover a lot in a short time without sacrificing meaningful cultural encounters.

This trip suits adventurous, active travelers eager to see diverse landscapes and historic sites. If you’re comfortable with flying between destinations and enjoy moderate physical activities like walking, sightseeing, or a boat ride, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

It’s ideal for first-time visitors to Southeast Asia who want a structured, guided experience to see the highlights. Given the mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, it’s perfect for those wanting a meaningful, comprehensive introduction to Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos.

This Vietnam-Cambodia-Laos Discovery tour offers a robust itinerary full of iconic sights and authentic experiences. For a reasonable price, you get to traverse three countries, witness stunning landscapes, and explore ancient temples and local cultures.

While it’s a busy schedule, the combination of guided tours and free time provides a good balance—catering to travelers eager to see a lot without feeling overwhelmed. The highlights like Halong Bay’s limestone cliffs, Angkor Wat’s grandeur, and Kuang Si Waterfall’s serenity truly stand out as memorable moments.

If you love discovering new cultures, enjoy beautiful scenery, and want a well-organized trip that maximizes your time, this tour offers excellent value and a chance to see Southeast Asia’s best in just over two weeks.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
This tour involves some physical activities like walking, boat rides, and exploring temples, so it might not be ideal for those with mobility issues or back problems.

Are flights between cities included?
Yes, the tour involves multiple flights between Hanoi, Da Nang, Saigon, Siem Reap, and Luang Prabang, all arranged as part of the package.

What should I bring?
You’ll want comfortable shoes for walking, swimwear for water activities, a camera for capturing moments, sunscreen, insect repellent, and cash for tips and small purchases.

Is there free time built into the itinerary?
Yes, after most guided tours, you’ll have free periods to explore independently or relax.

What’s the accommodation like?
While specifics aren’t detailed, the tour includes hotel stays in each location, generally comfortable and convenient for travelers.

Are meals included?
Some meals are included, like lunch and dinner on the Halong Bay cruise and some local restaurant lunches, but others are at your leisure.

Can I cancel or reschedule easily?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour begins, and you can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with a busy pace; families with young children or mobility concerns may find it challenging.

What language are guides available in?
The guides speak English and Vietnamese, helping you understand and connect with the sites.

This detailed exploration should help you decide if this dynamic, multi-country tour fits your travel style. With its blend of iconic sights, natural beauty, and cultural depth, it’s a vibrant way to experience Southeast Asia in a manageable, well-organized package.

You can check availability for your dates here: