Best of the Mekong by Cruise: Cambodia & Vietnam

Boutique & River Cruises

Uncover the mystery of Angkor’s temples and glide across Tonle Sap’s floating villages.
Savour Khmer flavours during a hands-on cooking class and market visit in Siem Reap.
Cruise the Mekong aboard RV Bassac Pandaw, exploring riverside villages, silk weavers and ancient capitals.
Cross into Vietnam to discover tranquil islands, mangrove canals and vibrant local traditions.
Conclude in Ho Chi Minh City, tracing colonial heritage and modern energy before an evening at the Opera House.

Days

55 Years of Expertise in Tailor-Made Travel

ExcellentBased on 5,290 Reviews

55 Years of Expertise in Tailor-Made Travel

ExcellentBased on 5,290 Reviews

Trip Features

Epic Scenery

Showcases landscapes that elevate parts of the journey.

Off the Beaten Path

Includes lesser-known stops revealing authentic local life and surprises.

Boutique & River Cruises

Curated experiences by water on small vessels.

Epic Scenery

Showcases landscapes that elevate parts of the journey.

Off the Beaten Path

Includes lesser-known stops revealing authentic local life and surprises.

Boutique & River Cruises

Curated experiences by water on small vessels.

Trip Itinerary

At a Glance

DAY

Arrive in Siem Reap

DAY

Full Day Angkor Temples and Tonle Sap

DAY

Half Day Market Visit & Cooking Class

DAY

Siem Reap to the Mekong

DAY

Peam Chi Korng and Pak Russei Crafts

DAY

Life on the Tonle Sap River

DAY

Exploring Phnom Penh

DAY

Crossing into Vietnam

DAY

Chau Doc and the fertile waterways

DAY

Ben Tre and sailing into Ho Chi Minh City

DAY

Ho Chi Minh City Disembarkation

DAY

Full Day Saigon Sights & Sounds Tour

DAY

Evening A O Show at Opera House

DAY

Depart from Chi Minh City

Travel Itinerary

Trip Starts

Trip Stop

Trip Ends

Detailed Itinerary

DAY

Arrive in Siem Reap

Transfer

Siem Reap Angkor International Airport to Siem Reap - Wat Bo Road Area

Your Accommodation

Borei Angkor Resort & Spa

Borei Angkor Resort & Spa is well situated in the centre of Siem Reap, the town which is close to the Angkor Wat sites. It is only a 15 minute drive to the nearest site. Although not a large hotel, it is an attractive establishment located in a tropical garden. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, bar and lounge, coffee shop and restaurant.

Duration

3 Night Stay

Meal Plan

Full Breakfast

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DAY

Full Day Angkor Temples and Tonle Sap

Day Tour

Full Day Jungle Temples & Tonle Sap Lake with Lunch: Ta Prohm & Preah Khan

Start with a visit to Ta Prohm, a jungle-clad temple left largely untouched since its rediscovery. Wander through its atmospheric corridors, where massive tree roots weave through the ruins, creating one of Angkor's most striking and photogenic sights. The fusion of nature and architecture offers a glimpse into how the temples once appeared when first found. Continue to Preah Khan, "The Sacred Sword," an extensive 56-hectare monastic complex built by King Jayavarman VII as a monastery and teaching center. Now part of the World Monuments Fund’s prime Asian conservation projects, it combines careful restoration with its mysterious, original charm. In the afternoon, drive to Tonle Sap Lake, Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake and the lifeblood of millions of locals. Board a private longtail traditional boat to explore a floating village, observing how Khmers and Vietnamese live and work together. After the boat tour, return to Siem Reap and if time allows, stop to visit Artisans d'Angkor, a development project teaching young adults traditional crafts such as stone carving, woodwork, and lacquer application - a heartwarming reminder that Cambodia's progress can coexist with its rich heritage.

DAY

Half Day Market Visit & Cooking Class

Day Tour

Half Day Cooking Class

This morning enjoy a half day cooking class - start with a hotel pick up by Remok, followed by a visit to one of the busiest local markets in Siem Reap for supplies then on to the restaurant for the cooking class. It can be hot work in the markets, so a cold welcome drink is served on arrival. The owner then provides a full introduction of all ingredients in their raw form and then usually we produce 2-3 dishes during the cooking class, followed by Lunch.

DAY

Siem Reap to the Mekong

Multi Day Tour

Siem Reap to the Mekong

Travel by coach from Siem Reap to the riverside town of Steung Trang for embarkation. Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Mekong and meet your crew for the next 7 nights before your welcome dinner is served.

Meal

Dinner, Lunch

Your Accommodation

RV Bassac Pandaw

The RV Bassac Pandaw is renowned for its elegant design and comfortable amenities. She navigates through the picturesque waterways of Southeast Asia, providing passengers with a unique and immersive travel experience. With 30 spacious cabins, a sun deck, and a stylish restaurant serving delectable cuisine, the RV Bassac Pandaw offers a delightful blend of relaxation and exploration for those seeking a memorable river cruising adventure.

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DAY

Peam Chi Korng and Pak Russei Crafts

Multi Day Tour

Peam Chi Korng and Pak Russei Crafts

Enjoy morning Tai Chi or just a coffee on deck as we take a sunrise cruise to Peam Chi Korng, an untouched gem that is a hub of pottery in Cambodia. After a short tuk tuk ride from the banks of the Mekong, we witness the local potters in action before continuing to explore the village and local fresh market where you can test your language skills. This afternoon we step ashore at Pak Russei, a small and remote village on the banks of the Mekong. We will explore on foot and visit local craftspeople weaving silk and producing handmade noodles. Before returning to the ship, we learn about the ancient art of Bokator, a traditional form of martial art with a private performance in the village.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Your Accommodation

RV Bassac Pandaw

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DAY

Life on the Tonle Sap River

Multi Day Tour

Life on the Tonle Sap River

In the morning, travel by coach to the ancient capital of Cambodia, Oudong where we visit the Vipassana Dhura Meditation Centre. Walk around the vast complex with it's impressive Khmer architecture and experience a short meditation class to quieten your mind. Rejoin your ship in Kampong Tralach for lunch abaord. In the afternoon we travel by oxcart around the riverside villages, markets and temples to get a sense of life in rural Cambodia. In the evening cocktails are served around a fire pit at a small fishing village where we will be joined by village folk keen to share tales and show us their traditional dancing.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Your Accommodation

RV Bassac Pandaw

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DAY

Exploring Phnom Penh

Multi Day Tour

Phnom Penh

Morning orientation of Phnom Penh by cyclo visiting the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda followed by the National Museum with its marvelous collection of Angkorian statuary. In the afternoon we visit the Killing Fields and Genocide museum to learn more about the brutal Khmer Rouge regime. We dock overnight in Phnom Penh city port with its lively bars, restaurants and nightlife. Feel free to explore the city before returning to your hotel on the water.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Your Accommodation

RV Bassac Pandaw

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DAY

Crossing into Vietnam

Multi Day Tour

Into Vietnam

We up anchor early in the morning and cruise downstream along the Mekong River to the Vietnam border for immigration formalities. The ship sails toward Chau Doc where we talk an evening stroll along the river before dinner aboard.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Your Accommodation

RV Bassac Pandaw

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DAY

Chau Doc and the fertile waterways

Multi Day Tour

Chau Doc and the fertile waterways

In the morning, we take minivans for a short drive to Sam Mountain, the location of Phuoc Dien Tu or the Hang Pagoda. After climbing the steps we are greeted with stunning views across the Mekong. For those not keen on the stairs, explore the local market instead. Afterwards, we visit the nearby floating fish farms by Sampan before being treated to a private Lion dance performance at a local Village. After lunch aboard we continue sailing into the heart of the Mekong delta and enjoy ondeck entertainment from your crew.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Your Accommodation

RV Bassac Pandaw

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DAY

Ben Tre and sailing into Ho Chi Minh City

Multi Day Tour

Ben Tre and sailing into Ho Chi Minh City

In the morning, we journey by sampans through mangroves and bamboo forests to the fruit orchards of Ben Tre. This is a fertile farming region with half of Vietnam's rice production coming from the Mekong Delta. It also hosts a rich artisanal culture which we will witness at a local village specialising in handicrafts. After returning to the ship enjoy lunch onboard as we sail through the Cho Gao Canal toward Ho Chi Minh City. The Cho Gao Canal is a vital waterway link for the transportation of goods to and from the city which was constructed in 1876 by the French and offers a fascinating insight to life along the water. In the evening we sail into central Ho Chi Minh City and enjoy the stunning skyline over dinner.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Your Accommodation

RV Bassac Pandaw

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DAY

Ho Chi Minh City Disembarkation

Your Accommodation

Hotel Majestic Saigon

The Majestic is situated in the heart of the city overlooking the Saigon River and is steps away from shopping, restaurants and business areas. The hotel has 152 rooms all with in-room safes, a mini bar and TV. The hotel also has a restaurant, café and two bars plus a coffee shop. Other facilities include a sauna, spa, swimming pool and fitness centre.

Duration

3 Night Stay

Meal Plan

Full Breakfast

Multi Day Tour

Ho Chi Minh City Disembarkation

Disembark in central Ho Chi Minh City after breakfast for your onward travels.

Meal

Breakfast

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DAY

Full Day Saigon Sights & Sounds Tour

Day Tour

Full Day Saigon Sights and Sounds

Saigon doesn't just whisper its history-it belts it out in every street corner, temple courtyard, and French-era facade. This day tour blends iconic sights with deeper cultural gems, offering a classic introduction and artistic immersion into Vietnam's southern metropolis. Whether you're a first-time explorer or a culture buff, today's itinerary traces the city's transformation through war, art, and centuries of Chinese influence. Start your journey at the Reunification Palace, where time seems frozen in the 1970s. Once the seat of South Vietnam's government, its war rooms and retro décor offer a cinematic glimpse into a pivotal chapter of modern history. Just a short stroll away, the Central Post Office steals the spotlight with its grand arched ceilings and colonial-era charm-don't forget to mail a postcard from here as a keepsake. Next, tailor your cultural dive with a visit one of two museums: - War Remnants Museum, which pulls no punches in depicting the American War - Fine Arts Museum, home to a vibrant collection of traditional and contemporary Vietnamese art. Both are powerful in their own right-choose depending on where your curiosity leans. In the afternoon, trade wide boulevards for the sensory overload of Cho Lon, Saigon's Chinatown and one of the largest in the world. But first, stop at the FITO Museum-Vietnam's first dedicated to traditional medicine. Here, ancient tools and herbal remedies tell stories of wellness passed down through generations. Then plunge into the bustling heart of Chinatown. Discover local markets where incense mingles with the scent of dried herbs, peek into family-run apothecaries, and watch skilled artisans practice their centuries-old trades. Don't miss Thien Hau Temple, a spiritual haven dedicated to the sea goddess, where coils of incense hang in the air and worshippers whisper prayers. It's a colorful crescendo to a day steeped in heritage, creativity, and living tradition.

DAY

Evening A O Show at Opera House

Day Tour

Evening A O Show at Opera House

The A O Show (pronounced Ahhh! Ohhh!) has been performing to rapturous acclaim since February 2013. The 60-minute production depicts the transformation of modern Vietnamese society, taking the audience from the serenity and peacefulness of rural village life to the mayhem and frenzy of city dwelling through the medium of dance and music. Using acrobats, contemporary dancers, jugglers and martial arts experts, the performance is accompanied by an ensemble of harmonious instruments, some of which are rare these days and played only by a handful of musicians. Performed in the French colonial-era Municipal Theatre of Ho Chi Minh City, commonly known as Saigon Opera House, the show is essential viewing for anyone with an interest in performing arts.

DAY

Depart from Chi Minh City

Transfer

Ho Chi Minh City - District One to Ho Chi Minh City Airport

What to Expect

Explore what moves you.

Journey aboard a custom designed luxury river boat

RV Mekong Pandaw

Boats on the Mekong Delta

Angkor Wat

The lush Mekong Delta

Relax in your spacious cabin

Know when to go.

Place

Conditions

Daily max temperatureMonthly rainfall

Ho Chi Minh CityPartly Cloudy

34°C / 93°F

60mm / 2.3"

Siem ReapOccasional Showers

33°C / 91°F

89mm / 3.5"

Weather data is based on monthly averages.

Popularity rating

ExcellentBased on 5,290 Reviews

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Harpreet Litt provided us with a rich experience for our week. She offered good choices for local tour companies. We had a very good guide in Osaka. She is an Osaka resident with good English skills. She took extra pains to include opportunities we requested Osaka was a beautiful city at night. My photos of restaurants and street food were colorful and fun. Food was good too.Noel Chrisman

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Always a great experience working with GoWay. My destination specialist, Jaime, was wonderful throughout the planning process of a trip as well as when my clients hit a few snags in the road due to a hurricane. Grateful for Jaime’s assistance! Marissa Jennings

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I had a fantastic experience working with Lisa D. on the Goway team. She was helpful, attentive and made sure we were comfortable with our bookings and itinerary before departure, and also checked in with us following our trip. Would definitely book with Goway again!Mandi S.

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1186952 trip reference - Croatia and Montenegro. Dear Goway Travel Team! I wanted to reach out and share some well-deserved praise for Jacqueline, who has assisted me closely with several of my travels. She recently curated a trip for me to Croatia, the beautiful islands, and Montenegro, and it was an absolute home run. Jacqueline has an incredible ability to listen to her clients' needs and translate them perfectly into a flawless itinerary. Her articulation, guideline execution, and professionalism are unmatched. What sets her apart is her forward-thinking approach—she always knows the exact hotspots and trends, ensuring the pace of the trip matches my speed perfectly. Everything transitioned seamlessly thanks to her attention to detail and care. She is a massive asset to your organization, and her consideration makes every vacation stress-free. I will absolutely continue to use her for all my future travels. Kindest regards, Vince Sacco Vince Sacco

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Absolutely incredible trip! From beginning to end! All accommodations were excellent. If you want to experience Safaris this trip will fulfill all your expectations! A special thanks to our driver we had for our entire trip Evans! He made our trip over the top! The Hot air balloon ride in the Masai Mara is a must…it’s breathtaking!Pam Seitz

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I have worked with Goway several times in the past two years and every single trip has been unforgettable. Specifically, our travel advisor, Maria, has helped us book phenomenal trips to Thailand, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Ireland, and most recently, Iceland. Maria is so wonderful and easy to talk to, but what really stands out is her ability to get to know her clients so she can plan trips that perfectly align with our interests and desires. I cannot recommend her strongly enough! Her expertise, hard-work, and dedication towards each trip has given myself, my family, and friends memories to last a lifetime! Kayla Covello

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Jamil made our 40th birthday trip to Portugal so so very amazing and special! Great service, fabulous hotels, and wonderful day trips! Lane Strickland

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Katie was great, planned everything we needed, was great with changes and trip schedule conflicts. Fantastic working with her.CT

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I have been booking with GoWay for more than 2 years and feel so fortunate to have the best Travel Advisor, Maria Spitman, making our vacations unforgettable. I can’t say enough about Maria… she is personable, efficient, detail-oriented, and extremely knowledgeable about her specialty destinations. We have booked many trips with her, including Thailand, Spain, Portugal, Sicily, Iceland, and our most recent trip in Greece. Maria has not only curated nuanced itineraries, but has done so combining her vast knowledge of each region with our interests and needs being met perfectly. With that, it is evident that Maria learns about her clients to create vacation packages that far exceed expectations. I won’t book with anyone else! GoWay has a gem that is irreplaceable! I highly recommend seeking Maria out for all your destination needs. Darleen

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Goway has been amazing to work with. Farooq was my agent through Goway and she communicated promptly, planned a great international trip for my clients and was always organized. The trip was flawless to Rome and Malta from beginning to end!Kim Kamelesky