Cultural tour: local guides
14 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
51.0Kg CO2e
Embark on an unforgettable 14 day private guided journey through Vietnam and Cambodia, where ancient traditions, breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures come together to create the adventure of a lifetime. Begin in Hanoi, Vietnam's captivating capital, where tree lined boulevards, serene lakes and French colonial charm meet the timeless rhythm of local life. Wander through the Old Quarter, alive with bustling markets, hidden temples and the aroma of street food that tells the city's story through every flavour and sound. Then, cruise across the emerald waters of Halong Bay, where mist shrouded limestone karsts rise dramatically from the sea, creating one of Asia's most enchanting natural wonders.
Continue south to Central Vietnam, where the imperial city of Hue and the lantern lit streets of Hoi An reveal centuries of history, artistry and grace. Explore ancient citadels, riverside markets and traditional workshops that preserve the region's rich cultural heritage. Further on, the dynamic energy of Ho Chi Minh City contrasts beautifully with the tranquil waterways of the Mekong Delta, where life unfolds along winding canals, floating villages and lush rice paddies.
Cross the border into Cambodia, a land steeped in history and spirituality. In Phnom Penh, elegant boulevards and golden temples echo tales of Khmer legacy and French colonial influence. Journey onward to Siem Reap, gateway to the legendary Angkor temples, where the towering spires, intricate carvings and jungle clad ruins of Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Prohm stand as timeless testaments to human devotion and artistry.
Throughout this extraordinary adventure, expert private guides bring each destination to life with local insights. From the tranquil waters of Halong Bay to the mystical temples of Angkor, this immersive journey through Vietnam and Cambodia captures the very essence of Southeast Asia, a land of history, beauty and enduring spirit that will stay with you forever.
TERRAIN
Cycling on day 9 - Distance is approximately 5-7 kilometers. If you are unable to cycle, this can be done by tuk-tuk.
Cycling on day 12 - Distance is approximately 5-7 kilometers. This can be done on foot if you are unable to cycle. In that case, activity duration is approximately one hour.
Arrive into Hanoi Airport where you will be met by your guide who will transfer you to the hotel (45 minute drive). After check in at the hotel, you have the rest of the day to relax.
You stay at Bespoke Trendy Hotel Hanoi, Hotel.
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Bespoke Trendy Hotel Hanoi is a sleek boutique hotel blending modern design with Vietnamese charm. Nestled in a quiet street near Hanoi’s Old Quarter, it features stylish rooms, spa services, the Xoong restaurant and a vibrant rooftop bar.
Prepare for a day of unique experiences blending history, culture and cuisine. Begin with an electric buggy ride around Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter, passing landmarks such as the Opera House, St. Joseph's Cathedral and Hanoi's last remaining city gate before exploring Dong Xuan Market. Stroll down tree lined Phan Dinh Phung Avenue, stopping for a local coffee and continue past the Citadel's Northern Gate and Cua Bac Church. Lunch is at a traditional rice restaurant before visiting the Temple of Literature, where Confucianism comes to life. In the afternoon, choose between an urban walk through markets, alleys and railway tracks with a coffee stop or visit the Ho Chi Minh complex, ending with a refreshing bia hoi beer.
Breakfast & lunch included.
You stay at Bespoke Trendy Hotel Hanoi, Hotel.
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Bespoke Trendy Hotel Hanoi is a sleek boutique hotel blending modern design with Vietnamese charm. Nestled in a quiet street near Hanoi’s Old Quarter, it features stylish rooms, spa services, the Xoong restaurant and a vibrant rooftop bar.
This morning, depart Hanoi by private transfer to Halong Bay (approximately 2.5 hours drive). Upon arrival, board the vessel and settle into your cabin as lunch is served while cruising past dramatic limestone karsts. In the afternoon, enjoy your first excursion - visit to one of the bay's remarkable caves, with the chance to swim in calm waters depending on weather and conditions. Return to the boat for some relaxation before joining the chef for a short cooking demonstration as the sun sets over the emerald waters. Dinner is served on board, followed by an overnight stay in the peaceful surroundings of Halong Bay.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
You stay at Bhaya Classic, Cruise.
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The Bhaya Classic Cruise is a boutique ship blending oriental design with modern comfort. With elegant cabins, a sundeck, spa and fine dining, you can enjoy a personalised service and small-ship intimacy. Daily activities include kayaking, cave exploration, Tai Chi at sunrise and cultural experiences.
Wake early to join the crew for a calming Tai Chi session on deck as the sun rises over Halong Bay, or enjoy a little extra rest in your cabin. A light breakfast is served before setting out to explore another quiet corner of the archipelago, taking in its impressive peaks and glimmering jade waters one last time. After returning, savour a leisurely brunch in the restaurant as the vessel cruises back to port. Once you disembark we take you to Hanoi Airport (approximately 2.5 hours drive), where you catch your flight to Hue.
On arrival in Hue, you will be met and transferred to the hotel (approximately 40 minutes drive).
Breakfast included.
You stay at Pilgrimage Village Resort & Spa, Hotel.
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Pilgrimage Village, near Hue, is a serene boutique resort set in lush gardens. It offers a spa, multiple pools, yoga and Tai Chi sessions and a fusion restaurant, providing a peaceful blend of traditional Vietnamese charm and contemporary comfort.
Your Hue exploration begins with a guided walk through the Purple Forbidden City, the former residence of Vietnam's emperors, where your guide gives insight into imperial life while crossing from the Southern to the Northern gates. Pause at a charming cafe for a refreshing drink before continuing your adventure with a traditional rickshaw ride. The Imperial City is more than its Forbidden City: it's a vast complex of avenues, lakes, shops and homes still alive with daily activity. Your rickshaw then takes you to Kim Long village, once home to royal mandarins. Here, a welcoming family serves a delicious meal in their garden house.
Breakfast & lunch included.
You stay at Pilgrimage Village Resort & Spa, Hotel.
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Pilgrimage Village, near Hue, is a serene boutique resort set in lush gardens. It offers a spa, multiple pools, yoga and Tai Chi sessions and a fusion restaurant, providing a peaceful blend of traditional Vietnamese charm and contemporary comfort.
Today you'll depart Hue with your driver and travel toward Hoi An (approximately 4 hours drive). Along the way, you will drive along the stunning Lang Co Bay and cross the famous Hai Van Pass, one of Vietnam's most scenic coastal roads. Stop at the summit to admire panoramic sea views and explore the restored ancient gate. Around midday, arrive at An Bang, a charming fishing village just 4km from Hoi An's Old Town. Despite welcoming travellers, An Bang has retained its authentic local spirit, with morning markets, basket boats and a relaxed seaside atmosphere. The afternoon is yours to unwind on the beach, explore the village or wander into Hoi An's historic centre.
Breakfast included.
You stay at AIRA Boutique Hoi An, Hotel.
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Nestled along the pristine white sands of An Bang Beach, this boutique hotel offers 40 elegantly designed rooms and suites across two stylish buildings. Amenities include a Vietnamese restaurant, day spa and two outdoor swimming pools, all set within lush tropical gardens.
This morning begins with an orientation walk through Hoi An's atmospheric Old Town. Stroll along its photogenic, yellow walled streets as your guide highlights landmarks and hidden corners before reaching the bustling market. Here, you'll meet your chef for the day, who will introduce you to Vietnam's essential herbs, spices and ingredients. From the market, a boat ride along the Thu Bon River takes you to a small island farm. Roll up your sleeves for a hands on cooking class, then enjoy a delicious lunch of your own creations. Return to Hoi An by boat, with the afternoon free to explore the town or relax at your hotel.
Breakfast & lunch included.
You stay at AIRA Boutique Hoi An, Hotel.
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Nestled along the pristine white sands of An Bang Beach, this boutique hotel offers 40 elegantly designed rooms and suites across two stylish buildings. Amenities include a Vietnamese restaurant, day spa and two outdoor swimming pools, all set within lush tropical gardens.
We take you from your hotel to Danang Airport (approximately 45 minutes drive) for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in the city centre (approximately 35 minutes drive).
This afternoon, meet your guide in the lobby for a unique adventure through Ho Chi Minh City's two most fascinating districts. Begin with an open air electric buggy ride through District 1, where French colonial landmarks such as the Central Post Office, City Hall, the Opera House and Ben Thanh Market showcase Saigon's elegant past. Crossing the city's oldest bridge, designed by Gustave Eiffel in 1882, you'll enter District 4 once a mafia stronghold, now a lively working class neighbourhood with a riverside, village like atmosphere. Stop at a cafe for refreshment, wander through a bustling covered market and weave your way through narrow alleys. Your local immersion ends with a taste of authentic street food in traditional chung cu (old apartment blocks), typical of Saigon.
Breakfast included.
You stay at La Siesta Premium Saigon, Hotel.
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Northern Charm Hotel, in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1, offers 128 contemporary rooms with city or park views. You can enjoy a rooftop pool and bar, panorama restaurant, fitness centre and convenient access to shopping and historic attractions—perfect for travellers.
Leave the bustle of Ho Chi Minh City behind for a scenic 2.5 hour drive into a quieter corner of the Mekong Delta, about 30 km from the river's mouth. Board a private boat and begin exploring the waterways, stopping at a local factory, where coconut shells are processed through traditional kilns to produce charcoal, before reaching a peaceful island for lunch at a family run guesthouse.
In the afternoon, visit a honey bee farm, then hop on a bicycle to ride along narrow paths through orchards and villages. Pause at a local farm to discover the secret of Sam jelly and taste it fresh. End the day with a tranquil sampan ride through lush mangroves before meeting your driver for the return to Ho Chi Minh City.
Breakfast & lunch included.
You stay at La Siesta Premium Saigon, Hotel.
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Northern Charm Hotel, in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1, offers 128 contemporary rooms with city or park views. You can enjoy a rooftop pool and bar, panorama restaurant, fitness centre and convenient access to shopping and historic attractions—perfect for travellers.
Embark on a stunning speedboat ride to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, a unique way to see a different side of Vietnam. Transfer to the pier and cruise 70 km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City along the Saigon River, gliding past floating water hyacinths and riverside villages. This scenic journey offers a glimpse into traditional Mekong river life and plenty of photo opportunities before arriving at the legendary tunnel complex.
Here, discover over 200 km of underground passages used during the Vietnam War. Explore the intricate network of hideouts, shelters, and supply routes, and even crawl through sections yourself to experience what life was like for Viet Cong soldiers during this turbulent time in history.
Transfer to Saigon Airport for your flight to Phnom Penh. Upon arrival at Phnom Penh Airport, your driver will be waiting outside the terminal. You will then be transferred to your hotel (approximately 25 minutes drive).
Breakfast & lunch included.
You stay at Anik Boutique Hotel.
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Anik Boutique Hotel, near Rainbow Bridge in Phnom Penh, blends Khmer and French colonial design. It offers 38 modern rooms, an indoor pool, spa, fitness centre and in-house dining. You can enjoy scenic river views and easy access to Koh Pich, the Royal Palace and local shopping and entertainment.
Set off by tuk tuk for a panoramic tour of Phnom Penh, taking in the city's bustling streets and contrasting blend of old and new. Continue to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a sobering reminder of Cambodia's tragic past. Once a school, it was transformed into a prison and interrogation centre under the Khmer Rouge. Walk through its stark rooms and exhibits to gain insight into the suffering endured here and the resilience of the Cambodian people.
Conclude the morning with free time at Central Market (Psar Thmei), a lively art deco landmark filled with stalls selling everything from handicrafts to jewellery, clothing and local snacks, perfect for browsing or people watching before lunch.
Breakfast & lunch included.
You stay at Anik Boutique Hotel.
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Anik Boutique Hotel, near Rainbow Bridge in Phnom Penh, blends Khmer and French colonial design. It offers 38 modern rooms, an indoor pool, spa, fitness centre and in-house dining. You can enjoy scenic river views and easy access to Koh Pich, the Royal Palace and local shopping and entertainment.
You will be picked up from your hotel in Phnom Penh for an overland drive to Kampong Thom province (approximately 3 hours drive). Continue north to visit Prasat Sambor Prei Kuk, the pre Angkorian Chenla capital. This ancient complex, composed of four temple groups, is among the oldest surviving examples of Khmer architecture. Stroll through the jungle and admire the atmospheric ruins before enjoying lunch at a local home and a short cycling tour through a community based village. In the afternoon, head to Siem Reap (approximately 3.5 hours drive), stopping at the 12th century Kampong Kdei Bridge, once the longest corbelled stone arch bridge in the world, still remarkably preserved today.
Breakfast & lunch included.
You stay at HARI Residence & Spa, Hotel.
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Hari Residence & Spa in Siem Reap is a 4-star retreat near Pub Street and Angkor Night Market. It features 61 stylish rooms, a rooftop saltwater pool, fitness centre spa and all-day dining.
Your guide and driver will take you to explore Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire. Step through the South Gate, lined with colossal statues and marvel at the mysterious Bayon Temple, famous for its 216 serene faces. Continue to the grand Baphuon, the Terrace of the Elephants, and the Terrace of the Leper King, before visiting the atmospheric Ta Prohm, where towering tree roots engulf ancient stones.
In the afternoon, discover Angkor Wat, the world's largest religious monument and Cambodia's national symbol. Built in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II, its five lotus shaped towers, intricate bas, reliefs and vast moat represent the cosmic world. Originally Hindu and later Buddhist, it remains a masterpiece of harmony, spirituality and scale.
Breakfast included.
You stay at HARI Residence & Spa, Hotel.
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Hari Residence & Spa in Siem Reap is a 4-star retreat near Pub Street and Angkor Night Market. It features 61 stylish rooms, a rooftop saltwater pool, fitness centre spa and all-day dining.
Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore the charm of Siem Reap at your own pace. This delightful town invites you to wander its maze of alleyways, browse vibrant markets and discover hidden boutiques filled with handicrafts and souvenirs. Take time to relax in one of the many cozy cafes, sample Khmer specialties at local restaurants or simply soak up the laid back atmosphere that makes Siem Reap so unique. Whether you prefer shopping, dining or leisurely strolls, the town offers the perfect blend of culture and relaxation.
Breakfast included.
You stay at HARI Residence & Spa, Hotel.
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Hari Residence & Spa in Siem Reap is a 4-star retreat near Pub Street and Angkor Night Market. It features 61 stylish rooms, a rooftop saltwater pool, fitness centre spa and all-day dining.
Transfer to Siem Reap Angkor International Airport for your flight home.
Breakfast included.
These tour prices are per person, based on two people sharing.
Single supplement from NZ$931.
Call now to speak to our specialist team at 0044 1606 720199 or email us at sales@headwater.com for enquiries or to book your trip.
Cultural tour: local guides
14 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
51.0Kg CO2e
