Please do not book any flights prior to speaking with reservations and confirming what time the host flights arrive/depart. There will only be one group arrival & departure transfer provided, in conjunction with these flight times.

Day 1: Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam

Upon arrival we are met and transferred to our hotel to check in and freshen up. There will be time to explore the hotel facilities or nearby area before we meet for a Welcome Dinner in the hotel.

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Wink Saigon Hotel – 4 star – or similar (2 Nights)

Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

After breakfast this morning we set off on a comprehensive exploration of Saigon’s most iconic sights, delving into its rich history, architectural marvels, and poignant war memories. Begin with the serene Vinh Nghiem Pagoda, showcasing Vietnam’s spiritual heritage, before moving to the iconic Reunification Palace, a symbol of the war’s end, and then on to the elegant French colonial architecture of the Central Post Office and the Saigon Opera House. Our next stop will be Ben Thanh Market, an ideal place to buy local handicrafts, brand goods, Vietnamese art and souvenirs. Here, you will also have the opportunity to purchase (own expense) a snack at the many local food stalls. This journey through time offers a profound understanding of Saigon’s past and present. We’ll have lunch at a local restaurant before we delve into Vietnam’s wartime history with a profound visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground network that played a crucial role during the War, offering a glimpse into the ingenuity and resilience of the Viet Cong. The journey from Ho Chi Minh City to the Cu Chi district provides a scenic transition from urban sprawl to countryside tranquility. At the tunnels, experience the narrow passageways first-hand and learn about the resourceful living conditions, traps, and warfare strategies that defined guerrilla tactics. A documentary provides context to the immense challenges faced during the conflict, making this visit an essential part of understanding Vietnam’s contemporary history. We return to the hotel and have the evening at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast & lunch

Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City – Can Tho

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and check out we have the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the lush beauty of the Mekong Delta and discover the enchanting world of cacao farming with a visit to a local cacao farm. This unique tour combines the serene experience of sailing through the Mekong Delta on the Cai Be Princess with the fascinating process of cacao cultivation and chocolate production. After exploring the waterways, traditional workshops, and a colonial-style lunch, the journey takes a sweet turn towards a local cacao farm. Here, we’ll meet the farmers, learn about the cacao growing process, and see how the beans are turned into chocolate. The visit to the cacao farm adds a rich, educational layer to our Mekong Delta exploration, making for an unforgettable day of adventure and indulgence. After an exhilarating adventure in the Mekong Delta, we continue our journey with a scenic transfer to Can Tho where we unwind and spend the night at leisure in this charming city.

Meals: Breakfast &lunch
Accommodation: Victoria Can Tho Resort – 4 star – or similar (1 Night)

Day 4: Can Tho – Chau Doc

Embrace the early hours with a visit to Can Tho’s vibrant Cai Rang floating market, a journey that replaces the conventional morning commute with a boat ride at dawn, showcasing the rich tapestry of local life and cuisine. As the sun rises, we’ll navigate through the bustling market, a hub for an array of fresh local produce, from lush vegetables to exotic fruits. Here, amidst the lively trade, engage in the local tradition by bargaining for a bowl of Hu Tieu noodles, a staple breakfast in the Mekong Delta. The culinary exploration continues as we venture to a local handicraft village, delving into the art of Hu Tieu noodle making with the guidance of skilled artisans, offering a hands-on experience that connects you directly to the region’s cultural heritage. Culminating with a serene cruise back to your hotel, this morning tour is both an intimate encounter with local traditions and a delightful gastronomic adventure. Following our exciting adventure in the delightful Can Tho, we embark on a picturesque drive to Chau Doc, where we check into our hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast & lunch
Accommodation: Victoria Chau Doc Resort – 4 star – or similar (2 Nights)

Day 5: Chau Doc

This morning, enjoy breakfast and some time at leisure. You may like to take a walk in the area or simply relax in the hotel grounds. This afternoon we venture from Chau Doc to the enchanting Tra Su Forest, a vital nature reserve and bird sanctuary, for an afternoon exploring the depths of Vietnam’s lush waterways. The journey to Tra Su begins with a visit to a local Pagoda, offering insights into the community’s Buddhist practices. Tra Su’s expanse, covering 845 hectares, serves as a haven for over 80 bird species and a rich variety of flora and fauna, maintaining its tranquility by restricting visitor access to certain areas. Glide through its serene waterways on a paddle boat, navigating the verdant, flooded forest—a peaceful habitat crucial for bird breeding. Although the reserve welcomes visitors year-round, it truly flourishes from September to November when water levels rise, showcasing the wetland’s full splendour. We return to the hotel late afternoon. Have time freshen up before we meet this evening for dinner.

Meals: Breakfast & dinner

Day 6:  Chau Doc – Phnom Penh

After breakfast and check out we board the coach for a travel day. We make our way to the Tinh Bien/Phnom Den Border to cross into Cambodia and then continue our journey with a scenic drive to Phnom Penh. After lunch we will check into our overnight accommodation and have the evening at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast & lunch
Accommodation: G Mekong Hotel – 4 star – or similar (1 night)

Day 7: Phnom Penh

After breakfast at the hotel we have a tour to explore Phnom Penh’s rich history including a visit to the city’s most significant cultural landmarks, from the grandeur of the Royal Palace to the bustling energy of its iconic market. We begin at the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, where gilded rooftops, intricate Khmer architecture, and over 5,000 silver floor tiles reflect Cambodia’s royal heritage. Admire the exquisite gold and jewelled Buddha statues, considered national treasures. Next, visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide, a former school transformed into a detention centre during the Khmer Rouge era. This solemn site provides a powerful insight into Cambodia’s tragic past, with exhibits that can be unsettling. We conclude the tour at Phsar Thmey (Central Market), an Art Deco landmark teeming with local vendors. Wander through its maze of stalls, discovering handcrafted goods and experiencing everyday Cambodian life. This afternoon we are transferred to our river cruise ship to board and meet the crew. Freshen up in your cabin before we meet for this evening’s dinner.

Meals: Breakfast & dinner
River Cruise Ship: Victoria Mekong Cruise – 4 star – or similar (3 Nights)

Day 8: Koh Chen – Koh Dach – Angkor Ban

After breakfast today there is a walking tour of the village of Koh Chen where the highlight is meeting a local copper and silversmith. Afterward, travel by coach to Oudong, the ancient capital of Cambodia with a stop at the fascinating Vipassana Dhura Meditation Center. After having lunch on board the ship, we travel by three-wheeled tuk tuk to Silk Island where we will learn about the process of silk weaving, from worm to loom, with the chance to observe local families weaving the iconic Cambodian krama. Before dinner, immerse yourself in Cambodia’s cultural heritage with a fascinating Krama demonstration, where you will learn about Cambodia’s iconic scarf- its history, significance, and the versatility a scarf has in daily life.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 9: Angkor Ban – Kampong Cham

This morning, we explore the village of Angkor Ban with its wooden stilt houses and local vibe. Back on the ship we continue to cruise to Kampong Cham. Before setting off for the afternoon excursion, spend some time with a hands-on cultural experience by learning the delicate art of folding lotus flowers, a symbol of purity and devotion in Southeast Asian tradition. A walking tour along the river is then on offer where we visit Kampong Cham town. Returning late afternoon to the ship freshen up before dinner and the evening’s entertainment onboard.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 10:  Kampong Cham – Siem Reap 

After breakfast this morning, we disembark the ship in Kampong Cham and board our coach, travelling through the lush Cambodian countryside. Upon arrival to Siem Reap, the gateway to the mystical Angkor Complex, we have lunch before transferring to our hotel. This evening after dinner (own expense) we discover Cambodia’s rich artistic heritage at the renowned Phare Cambodian Circus. Watch an extraordinary performance that blends acrobatics, aerial ballet, mime, tightrope walking, and storytelling. This contemporary circus is run by an NGO that supports disadvantaged Khmer youth through arts education and performance training. While the show is modern, it remains deeply rooted in Cambodian traditions, folk stories, and music, making for a truly unique and immersive experience.

Meals: Breakfast & lunch
Accommodation: Royal Angkor Resort and Spa – 4 star – or similar (3 Nights)

Day 11: Angkor Thom – Ta Prohm – Angkor Wat

We have an early morning start at the South Gate of Angkor Thom, where statues of the gods of good and evil line the entrance. Our next stop is Bayon, a richly decorated temple who’s most distinctive feature is the hundreds of smiling faces that grace the towers. Impressive bas-reliefs tell stories of daily life and of the great battles that were fought between the Khmers and ancient Thais. Move on to Phimeanakas, shaped like a pyramid with two ponds in the rear. Those that can may like to walk to the top of the temple for impressive views of the Angkor complex. A short drive sees us at Ta Prohm, one of Cambodia’s most beloved temples. Unusually, Ta Prohm is in much the same condition in which it was found. The combination of large trees growing out of the ruins and the surrounding jungle give the temple a truly magical feel. After lunch we spend the remainder of the afternoon exploring magnificent Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument and best-preserved temple in the complex. This visually spectacular massive three-tiered pyramid has become a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on its flag. Admire the grandeur of its architecture and its extensive decoration of bas-relief friezes. This incredible day ends taking in the views of the sunset over the jungle from the top of Pre Rup Temple before returning to Siem Reap for evening of leisure.

Meals: Breakfast & lunch

Day 12:  Siem Reap

Enjoy breakfast this morning before we take a half day History and Heritage tour. Our tour begins with a thought-provoking visit to the Cambodia Landmine Museum, where we’ll learn about the country’s tragic history with landmines. Discover the inspiring story of Aki Ra, a former child soldier who devoted his life to demining efforts and supporting affected communities. Gain insight into Cambodia’s ongoing journey toward healing and recovery. We then continue to the magnificent Banteay Srei Temple, known as the “Citadel of Women.” This 10th-century gem is celebrated for its intricate red sandstone carvings and exceptional Khmer architecture. Considered a masterpiece of classical art, the temple offers a glimpse into Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage. After returning to the hotel, enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your leisure—relax, explore, shop, or reflect on the day’s experiences. This evening we have a farewell dinner, the last together for our Mekong Memories.

Meals: Breakfast & dinner

Day 13: Depart Siem Reap 

Following breakfast we have some time at leisure before we check out. Enjoy a casual lunch together and then we are transferred to the Siem Reap airport where we say our farewells.

Meals: Breakfast & lunch

Travel dates: 21 September - 03 October 2026 - Host will travel from Brisbane

*Advertised price is per person based on the River Deck Cabin. Tour is subject to availability and requires minimum number of passengers to depart. Please enquire for current availability and pricing with your RAC travel consultant.

*All prices shown are starting prices, capacity controlled and subject to availability and change at any time. Price is per person Sole Use and subject to availability. Price is correct as at 07 October 2025. Tour requires minimum number of passengers to depart. Prices may fluctuate if surcharges, fees, taxes or currencies change. Solo Connections is constantly striving to improve our itineraries and inclusions. If such improvements can be made, or unforeseen circumstances beyond our control make changes necessary, we reserve the right at any time to vary itineraries and to substitute inclusions of equal value. Beverages, additional meals, hotel mini bars, laundry, phone calls, any items of personal nature not included. Further booking conditions apply, please check all prices, availability and other information with your travel agent at time of or before booking. Package cancellation fees apply. Further Solo Connections T&Cs apply, please check with your RAC travel consultant for further details.

A further $165 deposit per person is due at time at booking. General RAC Travel terms and conditions apply.