South Vietnam and Cambodia Itinerary is an ideal option for your kids to open their eyes to all over the world. From the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City and the unique culture in the Mekong Delta to the serene temples of Angkor Wat, this region promises an unforgettable adventure. Let’s hop on this journey with the Indochina Voyages Team to see more!
What can you expect in the South Vietnam and Cambodia tours?
South Vietnam and Cambodia are the perfect destinations for a Vietnam and Cambodia family holiday. These neighboring countries offer a captivating blend of rich history, stunning natural beauty, and unique cultural experiences that cater to travelers of all ages. This Vietnam and Cambodia tour is not only for families but it is also perfect for couples or even solo travelers who prefer cultural experiences.
So what can you expect in each region in this multi-country journey? Let’s see in the details:
South Vietnam
South Vietnam is a vibrant and diverse region that boasts a fascinating history, delectable cuisine, and a range of breathtaking landscapes. Here are the highlights of this stunning landscape in Vietnam for you when choosing to travel:
- The bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, are where you can immerse yourself in French colonial architecture and vibrant local markets.
- Journey through the Mekong Delta, a lush network of rivers, canals, and floating markets that offer a glimpse into traditional Vietnamese life.
- The stunning beaches of Nha Trang and Phu Quoc Island provide the perfect opportunity to relax and soak up the sun with your family.
Cambodia
Meăhile, neighboring Cambodia is a remarkable destination that captivates visitors with its ancient wonders and rich cultural heritage. Here are the highlights:
- The iconic Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit, where you can marvel at the intricate temple complexes and learn about the Khmer civilization.
- Phnom Penh, the capital city, offers a glimpse into Cambodia’s tumultuous past, with thought-provoking museums and memorials.
- Moreover, you can explore the charming countryside, where you can interact with friendly locals and discover vibrant local markets.
How many days are enough for Southern Vietnam and Cambodia?
When planning a family holiday in South Vietnam and Cambodia, the ideal duration is typically between 10-14 days. This timeframe allows you to comfortably experience the highlights of both countries without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
This duration provides a well-balanced itinerary that caters to the diverse interests and needs of a family. From exploring the culture and creating lasting memories in both South Vietnam and Cambodia to relaxing on the beaches, this duration is perfect for not only families but also couples for honeymoon holidays.
Perfect itineraries
When planning a family holiday in South Vietnam and Cambodia, there are two popular and complementary ways to explore the wonders of this captivating region: one is the land-based tour, and the other is hopping on a Mekong River Cruise from Southern Vietnam to Cambodia – which is quite leisure and slow travel, combine with explore the cultures in 2 countries:
South Vietnam and Cambodia land-based tour
This option allows you to travel at your own pace, with the flexibility to delve deeper into the sights and attractions that capture your family’s interest. By connecting the two countries with short flights (if you only visit Saigon in Southern Vietnam without exploring the Mekong Delta areas), you can seamlessly move between the vibrant cities, serene landscapes, and historic landmarks that make this region so alluring. Here is a complete itinerary for your reference:
Week 1: Southern Vietnam Exploration
Day 1 and Day 2: Ho Chi Minh Arrival and enjoy the fascinating Saigon City Tour
Day 3: This day is an exploration of the Cu Chi Tunnel and Cao Dai Temple
Day 4 and Day 5: Enjoy a 2-day and 1 night on a short Mekong Cruise from Can Tho to explore the Mekong Delta and enjoy the fascinating life on the water.
Day 6: Across the border towards Cambodia and travel to Phnom Penh by speed boat, prepare to begin the journey in Cambodia on a Phnom Penh City Tour.
Week 2: Discovery Cambodia
Day 7: Head to Battambang from Phnom Penh and visit a fish village in Kompong Chhnang.
Day 8: Explore Battambang with various attractions such as:
- Visit Wat Slaket Pagoda, the residence of a former provincial Buddhist patriarch
- Explore Wat Ek Phnom’s ancient ruins and carvings
- See traditional Prahoc (fish paste) made at the local market
- Tour Provincial Museum (closed weekends)
- Browse the bustling local market
- Climb Phnom Banon for scenic views
- Ride the famous bamboo train
Day 9: Travel to Siem Reap and prepare for an off-beat day with various experiences in Siem Reap:
- Explore local night markets like Angkor Night Market or Siem Reap Art Center Night Market
- Discover Alley West, a vibrant alley with local bars, live music, and a laid-back atmosphere
- Indulge in authentic Khmer cuisine at street food stalls, local restaurants, or night markets
- Experience a traditional Apsara dance performance at smaller, lesser-known venues
- Capture the beauty of Siem Reap by night with a night photography tour or on your own
Day 10: Catch the impressive sunrise in the Angkor Area and explore the full-day Angkor Complex
Day 11: Prepare to travel to Banteay Srei – Ta Prohm
- Visiting the temple of Banteay Srei, known for its exquisite stone carvings and intricate details in pink sandstone.
- Making a stopover at Preah Dark Village to observe the local way of life and interact with friendly villagers.
- Visiting the Banteay Samre Temple, adorned with impressive reliefs depicting scenes of Vishnu and Krishna legends.
- Exploring the jungle-covered temple of Ta Prohm, with its enormous fig trees and creepers embracing the stone structures, creates an impression of nature reclaiming man-made creations.
- Exploring the surrounding temples near Ta Prohm if time permits.
Day 12: Visit the Roluos Group, the monuments of Roluos, which served as the capital of Indravarman I (reigned 877-89)
Day 13: Free time to stroll around Siem Reap one last time before going to Airport and say farewell with the South Vietnam and Cambodia journey.
Indochina Voyages also has the same itinerary above which is named “Discovery Southern Vietnam & Cambodia in 13 days“. If interested in this journey you can visit here for more details. Moreover, this is just a suggested itinerary, you can customize your tour with our travel local expert until it suits you best!
Mekong River Cruise from South Vietnam to Cambodia
Alternatively, you can opt for a leisurely and immersive Mekong River cruise, which enables you to relax as you float through the picturesque riverscapes, while also providing opportunities to disembark and explore the charming riverside towns and villages along the way.
A full Mekong River Cruise from Vietnam to Cambodia is often about 8 days, beginning in Saigon and ending in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. You can choose the upstream itinerary (from Vietnam to Cambodia) or the downstream itinerary (from Cambodia to Vietnam)
This type of experience allows you to relax as you float through the picturesque riverscapes of the Mekong Delta. Besides, you also have a chance to explore unique cultures from Vietnam to Cambodia. Some of the highlights you can expect during a Mekong River cruise include:
- Drifting past lush, verdant landscapes and traditional riverside villages, providing a serene and scenic journey.
- Disembarking at various stops to explore charming riverside towns and get a glimpse into the local way of life.
- Visiting floating markets where you can browse an array of fresh produce, handicrafts, and local delicacies.
- Interacting with friendly, welcoming local communities and learning about their customs and traditions.
- Sampling authentic regional cuisine prepared freshly on board, complementing the riverine experience.
- Having the opportunity to observe the daily life and activities of people living and working along the Mekong.
Whichever itinerary you choose, you’ll be treated to a captivating blend of rich history, stunning natural beauty, and unique cultural experiences that make South Vietnam and Cambodia an ideal destination for a family holiday.
Extra Travel Information
Currency
The official currencies in South Vietnam and Cambodia are the Vietnamese Dong (VND) and the Cambodian Riel (KHR), respectively. It is recommended to have a mix of local currency and major global currencies, such as US Dollars, for your convenience.
Visa when crossing the border
Depending on your nationality, you may require a visa to enter both South Vietnam and Cambodia. It is advisable to research the visa requirements well in advance and obtain the necessary documentation to ensure a smooth border crossing.
Electricity
South Vietnam and Cambodia use 220-240V, 50Hz electrical sockets. It is recommended to bring a universal adapter to ensure your electronic devices can be charged during your travels.
Language
The primary language spoken in South Vietnam is Vietnamese and in Cambodia is Khmer, respectively. While English is spoken in major tourist areas, it is helpful to learn a few basic phrases in the local languages to enhance your interactions with the locals.
How to get the best experience with your family?
To make the most of your family holiday in South Vietnam and Cambodia, consider the following tips:
- Involve your children in the planning process to cater to their interests and ensure everyone is engaged.
- Opt for activities and attractions that are both educational and enjoyable, such as visiting museums, participating in cooking classes, or exploring local markets.
- Allocate time for rest and relaxation, whether it’s lounging on the beautiful beaches or enjoying the scenic river cruises.
- Be mindful of the local customs and etiquette to ensure a respectful and enriching experience for your family.
- Embrace the opportunity to create lasting memories and immerse yourselves in the vibrant cultures of South Vietnam and Cambodia.
Hope this travel guide blog with the South Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary will help you have the best memories with your family that will last forever. Don’t hesitate to contact with Indochina Voyages Team, our passionate local travel expert team to have the best journey with valuable advice!
Maybe you’ll find out your own Vietnam and Cambodia Family Tour in our best-sellers:
- Southern Vietnam Discovery 6D-5N
- Splendors of Vietnam and Cambodia 17D-16N
- Classic Adventure Vietnam 12D-11N
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Indochina Voyages stands out as one of the premier Southeast Asia Tour Companies, specializing in crafting personalized private packages for discerning travelers not just providing single transfer items from Cambodia to Phu Quoc. Whether you choose to explore our pre-designed tours, meticulously curated by our travel experts, or opt to customize your own itinerary, we guarantee to deliver the finest and most suitable options for every aspect of your journey, from accommodation to transportation.
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Thuy Dang – From Indochina Voyages Team
