+44 (0)20 8741 7390 An all-encompassing journey through the landscapes of Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia, this fantastic itinerary provides a real treasure trail of World Heritage sites, fascinating cultures and beautiful beaches. Allowing enough time to experience the wealth of Indochina in depth, this is an adventure into the very heart of one of the most beautiful and tragic regions on earth. You ll begin in the charming city of Luang Prabang, a largely undiscovered gem that provides a gateway on to the tribal lands of the Hmong and the stunning Buddha caves of Pak Ou. From here fly on to Hanoi, to visit the cultural treasures of the Vietnamese capital and cruise through the World Heritage landscapes of breathtaking Halong Bay. The cultural journey then continues through Hue and Hoi An, two of the country s most historic cities, before flying on to Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta. The climax of this incredible adventure then sees you basking in the glory of the ancient Khmers, as you stand before the stunning spectacle of the Angkor Temples, one of the most remarkable religious settings anywhere on earth. HIGHLIGHTS: Experience the laid back lifestyle of Indochina's undiscovered gem, Luang Prabang Join the local's in paying homage to the hero of the Revolution, Uncle Ho Wonder at the spectacular limestone karst and breathtaking scenery at Halong Bay and Ninh Binh Explore the narrow waterways of the Mekong Delta on board the Mango Cruise boat. Discover the majesty of the lost city of Angkor with an expert guide TOUR INCLUDES: 2 regional flights and 1 internal flight 14 nights 4 star character hotels 1 night overnight train, Reunification Express 1 night aboard the Halong Ginger Junk Boat 15 breakfasts, 1 lunch & 1 Dinner Private guided sightseeing Private driver and vehicle Sightseeing programme including all entrance fees Private guided transfers to and from all airports
*Please note the prices shown are per person and based on two persons sharing a twin or double room
ITINERARY DAY 1: LUANG PRABANG Arrive in Luang Prabang. This afternoon visit the major sights, including the King's Palace and National Museum. DAY 2: LUANG PRABANG In the morning drive out to the Kuang Si Waterfalls and visit a local Hmong Hill tribe village. The afternoon is free to wander at your own pace. Optional afternoon cookery class - a wonderful way to lear about Laos' cuisine. (B) DAY 3: LUANG PRABANG - NONG KHIAW Leave Luang Prabang by road and travel through spectacular scenery along the Nam Ou River to the small riverside village of Nong Khiaw. Relax in the afternoon or you have the option of easy trek to the picturesque local limestone caves nearby. (B) DAY 4: NONG KHIAW - LUANG PRABANG - HANOI Travel by private boat down the Nam Ou River, enjoying the lush green forests and landscape. Then drive to the mysterious caves of Pak Ou, two caves set in a limestone cliff facing the Mekong River crammed with thousands Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes. Arriving back in Luang Prabang transfer to the airport for your flight to Hanoi. (B) DAY 5: HANOI Full day guided tour including Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum and Presidential Palace, Temple of Literature and Fine Arts Museum. This afternoon take a 'cyclo' tour around the Old Quarter of Hanoi. This evening enjoy the traditional Vietnamese water puppet show. (B) DAY 6: HANOI - HALONG BAY Today head east to Halong Bay, without doubt one of the most breathtakingly beautiful landscapes any-where in Southeast Asia. Board the Halong Ginger junk boat and spend the day cruising among the 3,000 limestone islands, stopping to swim and explore. Overnight in the Halong Jasmine junk boat. (B,L,D)
DAY 7: HALONG BAY - NINH BINH After the morning on the boat, you'll return to the jetty, from where you continue South East to the charming village of Ninh Binh. Nearby Tam Coc is referred to as "Halong Bay on land" due to its dramatic limestone karst scenery punctuating the lush rice paddies. Here you will be rowed in a sampan along a peaceful stream while having time to admire views of majestic limestone cliffs, mysterious caves and immense rice fields. (B) DAY 8: NINH BINH - OVERNIGHT TRAIN After a relaxing morning, spend the day visiting the beautiful Van Long nature reserve, an area of nearly 3000ha and the largest wetland reserve in the North of Vietnam. A two hour boat trip along the river offers stunning scenery of local villages dotted among the limestone karsts and caves. In the evening you take the evening Reunification Express train to Hue, Vietnam's old capital. Over-night on the sleeper train. DAY 9: HUE - HOI AN Arriving in Hue, spend the morning visiting the magnificent Imperial Citadel and Royal Relics Museum with your guide. After a lunch at a local restaurant and some time to riverside city continue along the spectacular Hai Van Mountain pass to the charming UNESCO Heritage settlement of Hoi An. (B) DAY 10: HOI AN Today the choice is yours whether you wander the streets looking at the painted houses, fish markets and guild halls, or relax on the golden beaches that lie just a few miles out of town. (B) DAY 11: HOI AN - DANANG - HO CHI MINH CITY Morning at leisure. This afternoon fly from Danang to the dynamic city of Ho Chi Minh City. (B)
DAY 12: HO CHI MINH CITY Morning sightseeing tour of the city's historic landmarks, including the American Embassy, Presidential Palace, War Museum and Thien Hau Temple. In the afternoon visit the Cu Chi Tunnels an extraordinary underground network, once a command base for over 10,000 Viet Cong troops. (B) DAY 13: HO CHI MINH CITY - MEKONG DELTA A full day out to experience life on this vast Delta. Drive to Ben Tre where you'll board the Mango cruise, to spend time exploring the plethora of canals. On land explore the region by bicycle, making stops to visit local homes for tea and learning about the cottage industries for which the region is famed, from rice paper and noodle making to fruit farming and fishing. After this fascinating insight into rural life on the Delta you will return to Ho Chi Minh City in the late afternoon. (B) DAY 14: HO CHI MINH CITY - SIEM REAP Fly to Siem Reap and transfer to your hotel before making your first foray into one of the world's most spectacular religious sites, Angkor Wat to see the stunning sunset. (B) DAY 15: SIEM REAP - (ANGKOR TEMPLES) Today's highlights include Angkor Wat and the fortified city of Angkor Thom. (B) DAY 16: SIEM REAP - (ANGKOR TEMPLES) Full day exploring Angkor's many temples with your guide, such as Ta Prohm, one of the most beautiful temples, Preah Khan, Preah Neah Pean and Ta Som. This afternoon highlights include Banteay Samre and the remarkably well preserved Banteay Srei - its rose-pink sandstone walls. (B) DAY 17: SIEM REAP Final day at leisure to relax or visit the temples in your own time. Later transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
ACCOMMODATION HALONG BAY HALONG JASMINE JUNK This unique river cruise offers you the perfect way to explore the waters of Halong Bay in comfort and elegance. Board Jasmine, one of the three traditional wooden junks known as the Three Sisters and sail down the bay taking in the mysterious and beautiful setting. With its own character, Jasmine has a sophisticated yet traditional décor with both the interior and exterior covered in polished wood, and the private rooms have a charming and luxurious feel with en suite bathrooms, air conditioning and beautiful views. Enjoy the early morning sun with some tai chi, try your hand at kayaking or simply cosy down with a drink or a book and enjoy the tranquillity as you drift along the river. HANOI LA SIESTA HOTEL HANOI A peaceful hotel with a homely feel, The La Siesta hotel is the newest member of the Hanoi Elegance hotel Group. Set apart from the rest of our other properties, it embodies pure luxury. Promising a warm welcome and personal service superbly located on old Ma May Street, it is in easy reach of Hanoi s evocative Hoan Kiem lake and major attractions. The latest gem is both modern in style as well as embodying the hidden charm of Hanoi s old quarter. The hotel has 50 spacious bedrooms, including Suites and Duplex rooms. Other facilities include a spa, gym, movie room and for Vietnam s authentic cuisine the Red Bean Restaurant is located on the ground floor. HO CHI MINH CITY MAJESTIC HOTEL Opened in 1925, the charming Majestic Hotel is a four star hotel that enjoys one of the city's finest locations in the centre of Ho Chi Minh City, overlooking the Saigon River. Within walking distance of the beautiful Opera House, Reunification Palace or Notre Dame Cathedral, this fine four star hotel embodies old world charm, impeccable elegance and the classic French tradition of original colonial architecture. The 175 rooms and suites offer both splendour and comfort and are fully equipped with modern facilities. With various eateries on offer the Majestic has a particular reputation for gourmet dining. Leisure facilities include swimming pool, fitness centre and spa. The hotel has recently has a full renovation but remains true to its heritage roots and has plenty of local character. HOI AN HOI AN CHIC Situated 4 Km from the Old Quarter of Hoi An, Hoi An Chic is a boutique retreat for those who want the basics done right - a good night's sleep on a comfortable bed, a good breakfast, great connectivity and all the necessities for a relaxed stay. The ideal place to bring home unforgettable travel experience amidst the fascinating landscape of the pastoral paddy fields. HUE
SAIGON MORIN HOTEL Set on the Perfume river near the Trang Tien bridge, the Saigon Morin offers a peaceful haven after the busy streets of Hue. As you would expect from a four star hotel the rooms are comfortable and well appointed and the main hotel restaurant serves a range of cuisine, with seafood dishes from Hue being a specialty. Facilities include a swimming pool, and rooftop restaurant. LUANG PRABANG KAMU ECO LODGE Situated on the Mekong River 2.5 hours upstream from Luang Prabang, Kamu Lodge is an unique eco-friendly retreat in the unspoilt countryside of Northern Laos. The lodge features 20 'safari' style ensuite tents with proper beds, electricity, private bathrooms with hot water and private balconies overlooking the Mekong River. Freshly prepared, authentic food is served in raised thatched cabanas dotted in the paddy fields. Activities on offer at the Kamu Lodge include tradional fishing, rice farming, trekking, weaving and panning for gold in the rich silt of the Mekong. A one night stop at Kamu Lodge is an excellent addition to your stay in Luang Prabang offering a fun insight into rural life without forfeiting your creature comforts. THE APSARA Originally a rice warehouse on the banks of the Nam Khan (the quieter side of town), the Apsara is located on the riverfront, right in the heart of the heritage site, making it the perfect place to stay. From the comfort of its large, airy bedrooms, it's easy to explore temples and the lanes of Luang Prabang. After which you can relax on the river terrace and enjoy the spectacular views and a refreshing Beer Laos. The hotel does not have a swimming pool, however their restaurant is known for having one of the most interesting menus in town as well as a superb wine list and the driest martinis in Laos. As Hip Hotels said "Both the restaurant and bar reflect a refined sense of taste" and who are we to argue with that. NINH BINH TAM COC GARDEN Tam Coc Garden is set on the outskirts in Ninh Binh where spectacular limestone outcrops sweep up from serene rice paddies. Waterway, bamboo hedges, fruit trees and vegetable garden form natural environment which inspire tranquillity and relaxation. This small characterful hotel is made up of eight stone bungalows, each housing two comfortable ensuite rooms with masses of local charm. There is also a wonderful pool overlooking Tam Coc's famous outcrops and a good local restaurant. NONG KHIAW
MANDALA OU RESORT A new addition to the scene in the remote village of Nong Khiaw in Northern Laos, Mandala Ou opened in November 2013 and boats the only swimming pool in Nong Khiaw. Set high on the banks of the scenic and tranquil Nam Ou river, offering spectacular sunset views over the virgin rainforest and karst limestone mountains of Nong Khiaw, Mandala Ou offer 10 bungalows, mixing traditional Lao style with all the modern conveniences you can expect from a home away from your home. The hotel has a good local restaurant, a traditional Lao herbal steam sauna, and a raised yoga and massage sala, all overlooking the river and mountains beyond. Yet another reason to visit this beautiful region of Laos - still largely untouched by tourism. SIEM REAP - ANGKOR HANUMAN ALAYA VILLA Tucked away in a quiet neighbourhood on the banks of the Siem Reap river and with just nine rooms tastefully decorated in a contemporary Khmer style, the newly opened Hanuman Villa is more a home than a hotel. Lush palms and ferns adorn the grounds and a small poolside restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Traditional Khmer massages can be arranged in your room or by the poolside on daybeds - the perfect cure for legs weary from exploring the nearby temples. Wild Frontiers Adventure Travel Ltd Tel +44 (0)20 8741 7390 Fax +44 (0) 20 8741 3610 Email info@wildfrontierstravel.com Website wildfrontierstravel.com