- Days 1-3Hanoi
- Days 3-4Lan Ha Bay
- Days 4-7Hoi An
- Days 7-9Ho Chi Minh
- Days 9-12Mekong River
- Days 12-13Phnom Penh
- Days 13-16Siem Reap and Angkor Wat
- Days 16-19Luang Prabang
- Days 1-3Hanoi
- Days 3-4Lan Ha Bay
- Days 4-7Hoi An
- Days 7-9Ho Chi Minh
- Days 9-12Mekong River
- Days 12-13Phnom Penh
- Days 13-16Siem Reap and Angkor Wat
- Days 16-19Luang Prabang
A Luxury Grand Tour of Indochina
Embark on a 19-day grand tour of Indochina, an unforgettable journey through Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. Begin your adventure in Hanoi, exploring the city by cyclo before spending a serene night aboard a traditional junk ship in Lan Ha Bay. Dive into the vibrant flavours of Hoi An with a hands-on cooking class, then delve into the rich history of Ho Chi Minh City. Cruise along the Mekong River to Phnom Penh, where you'll discover Cambodia's hidden temples and witness the sunrise at Angkor Wat. Conclude your journey in Luang Prabang, observing a sacred morning monk alms-giving ritual, a fitting end to this extraordinary cultural odyssey.
Trip highlights
- Explore Hanoi by cyclo
- Spend the night on a traditional junk ship in Lan Ha Bay
- Taste the flavours of Hoi An with a cooking class
- Visit the historical landmarks of Ho Chi Minh city
- Cruise the Mekong River to Phnom Penh
- Visit lesser-known temples in Cambodia
- Visit Angkor Wat at sunrise
- Attend a morning monk alms-giving ritual in Luang Prabang
Bespoke trips with Jacada
We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- Privately guided tours
- Private transfers
- Meticulously selected experiences
- Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge
Itinerary in detail
Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.
Days 1-3
An introduction to Hanoi
Your luxury trip starts with two nights in the vibrant Vietnamese capital, Hanoi. With its ochre-coloured buildings, tree-lined boulevards and scenic lakes, this is a city full of charm. You’ll have our recommendations for sightseeing and restaurant recommendations, and we’ll arrange specialist private excursions.
Exploring Hanoi on a cyclo tour
Discover the charm of Hanoi with its ochre-colored colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards, and serene lakes. Begin your tour at the historic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, an impressive monument crafted from marble and granite, housing the preserved body of ‘Uncle Ho’.
Adjacent to the Mausoleum lies Ho Chi Minh’s residence, offering a glimpse into his life with personal belongings on display, including his bedroom accessible via a staircase. Explore the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, a revered temple in Vietnam.
Then, embark on a captivating hour-long cyclo tour through the lively old quarter, famous for its ‘tunnel’ houses designed to reduce taxes. Navigate the maze of backstreets, gaining insights into everyday life and the country’s rich history along the way.
Visit to Vietnam's centuries-old pagodas
After a scenic 45-minute drive from Hanoi, you’ll arrive at the historic Tay Phuong Pagoda, a cultural landmark dating back to the 17th century. This renowned site is home to an exquisite collection of 18 jackwood Buddha statues, each masterfully coated with lacquer. As you ascend the 239 ancient laterite steps, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, where lush fields, majestic mountains and villages stretch as far as the eye can see.
Next, a short drive will take you to a serene village, where you’ll explore the enchanting Thay Pagoda. This 11th-century pagoda beautifully blends Buddhist and Taoist traditions, offering a tranquil retreat steeped in history and spirituality. After soaking in the peaceful ambiance, you’ll be comfortably driven back to Hanoi.
Where you could stay
Days 3-4
One night in Lan Ha Bay
Enjoy an overnight journey through the ethereal beauty of Lan Ha Bay. Spend a night aboard a traditional junk ship, awakening to the surreal sight of limestone karsts piercing through the misty dawn, creating an otherworldly panorama. There are few experiences as magical as watching the sunrise from the comfort of your cabin, then watching it sink behind the sparkling water as the day draws to a close.
As your vessel gracefully navigates through the maze of islands, discover secluded bays and pristine, white sandy beaches that beckon you to explore their untouched splendour. Encounter the enchanting floating villages, where life unfolds against the backdrop of emerald waters and towering cliffs. Caves await your exploration and islands invite you to cycle along their shores. Swimming, snorkeling and kayaking give you the chance to embrace the natural wonders that surround.
Where you could stay
Days 4-7
Three nights in Hoi An
In the ancient town of Hoi An, time seems to stand still amid the well-preserved buildings and cultural treasures. On a walking tour, immerse yourself in the charm of Hoi An’s pedestrianised streets, where the legacy of Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese influences seamlessly blend. Explore old merchants’ houses, each a testament to the town’s rich history and its cosmopolitan past. Marvel at the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, an emblem of Hoi An’s enduring allure.
Make it mine
Culture and history
Active and adventure
Cooking and tasting
Walking tour of Hoi An
Together with a local expert, wander through the narrow lanes of Hoi An, a town steeped in history.
Once a thriving port from the 17th to 19th centuries, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into its past with well-preserved buildings, car-free streets and delectable cuisine.
On this walking tour, explore old merchants’ houses reflecting Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese architecture, cross the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, admire the intricate wood carvings at the Chaozhou Assembly Hall, and browse the lively market, where you can find silk transformed into stylish garments in just a day or two.
Countryside cycling tour
Take a short boat trip across the river from Hoi before setting off on a cycling excursion along tranquil inland trails, where you’ll witness the craftsmanship involved in crafting wooden river boats, uncover the intricate art of weaving colorful Hoi An sleeping mats and experience the thrill of riding in traditional Vietnamese basket boats.
En route, you’ll observe local workers tending to rice fields, while immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and encountering hospitable locals.
Market visit and cooking class with locals
Begin your experience at Hai Café with a welcome drink, then explore Hoi An’s bustling central market with your chef, learning how to choose fresh ingredients for Vietnamese dishes.
A scenic boat ride takes you to Red Bridge Cooking school, offering views of local river life.
Once there, you’ll tour the herb garden before diving into a hands-on cooking class.
Afterward, enjoy the meal you’ve prepared in the charming restaurant overlooking the river. The school is nestled in three acres of lush tropical gardens, making for a truly memorable experience.
Where you could stay
Days 7-9
Two nights in Ho Chi Minh
Experience a day in the life of a Saigonese as you weave through the streets of Ho Chi Minh, beginning with the city’s largest flower market, Ho Thi Ky. Marvel at the kaleidoscope of colours as vendors trade in a symphony of roses, lotuses, lilies and orchids. Blend in with the locals, savouring Vietnamese coffee at a leisurely pace while absorbing the atmosphere. Throughout your sojourn here, you’ll have plenty of time explore the intricate web of streets, treating your palate to the opulent flavours and aromatic spices that characterise the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. A piping-hot bowl of traditional pho is a culinary masterpiece crafted with love and passed down through generations.
An exclusive Ho Chi Minh city tour
Explore the dynamic heart of Vietnam with a half-day tour of Ho Chi Minh City. Experience the city’s vibrant energy while delving into its history. Visit landmarks like the former Presidential Palace, where Saigon’s government once ruled, the Notre Dame Cathedral inspired by its Parisian counterpart and the Central Post Office. The tour also includes a visit to the War Remnants Museum, offering a powerful perspective on the American War through the eyes of the Vietnamese people.
Where you could stay
Days 9-12
Sailing the Mekong River to Phnom Penh
Indulge in three unforgettable nights aboard a luxury vessel as you drift along the serene Mekong River, where time seems to slow and every moment is a feast for the senses. Your journey will be shaped by the boat you select, but no matter your choice, you’ll be treated to impeccable service and breathtaking views. Along the way, you’ll gain a unique perspective on the vibrant life that thrives on the river’s banks, experiencing firsthand the deep connection between the people, wildlife and this vital waterway.
Where you could stay
Days 12-13
Overnight in Phnom Penh
Located at the confluence of the Mekong, Tonle Sap and Bassac rivers, Phnom Penh is known for its rich history, evident in landmarks like the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. The city has a lively riverside, local markets and a growing café culture, making it a hub for both culture and commerce in Southeast Asia.
An exclusive city tour of Phnom Penh
Historical sites
Museum
Memorial
Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
Visit Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, once a high school that the Khmer Rouge transformed into an interrogation centre and prison in 1975.
Over 17,000 people were tortured here before being sent to the killing fields outside the city.
Pol Pot’s brutal regime, aimed at creating a classless society, led to the deaths of nearly 2 million people through execution, starvation and disease.
Killing Fields tour
The serene green fields of Cheung Ek, known as ‘The Killing Fields,’ lie just 17 kilometers (11 miles) from Phnom Penh, yet their peaceful appearance belies the horrors that occurred there.
A large memorial now stands in honor of the 17,000 victims who perished under Khmer Rouge leader Pol Pot. The remnants inside the memorial and the mass graves scattered throughout the site serve as stark reminders of the suffering endured.
Visiting this place offers a profound understanding of the immense struggles the Cambodian people have faced and their remarkable resilience in rebuilding their nation.
Where you could stay
Days 13-16
Three nights in Siem Reap
Siem Reap serves as the gateway to one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world: Angkor Wat. Steeped in history and surrounded by lush greenery, Siem Reap offers a vibrant mix of traditional Khmer culture and modern amenities.
However, it’s the ancient temple complex of Angkor Wat that truly steals the spotlight. As the largest religious monument in the world, Angkor Wat stands as a testament to the grandeur and ingenuity of the Khmer Empire, showcasing intricate carvings, towering spires and sprawling grounds.
Beyond its architectural magnificence, Angkor Wat holds profound spiritual significance for the Cambodian people, serving as a symbol of national identity and resilience. A visit to Siem Reap and Angkor Wat promises an unforgettable journey through time, where the mysteries of the past blend seamlessly with the beauty of the present.
Ancient temples
Ta Prohm
Angkor Thom
Explore Ta Prohm
While the grandeur of Angkor Wat attracts crowds, the serenity of lesser-explored temples offers a unique and intimate experience. Among them, the enchanting Ta Prohm stands out, cloaked in nature’s embrace with intertwining tree roots reclaiming the temple’s stone structures.
Venturing off the beaten path allows for a profound connection with the rich Khmer history and the architectural marvels that may not grace postcards but possess a distinct charm of their own.
A private tour of Angkor Thom
Embark on a road trip to Angkor Thom’s Victory Gate. Choose between walking along the city wall to the Death Gate or continuing by road. En route to the Terrace of the Leper King, pause to admire a statue from Bayon now displayed at Vihear Prampeilveng.
Begin anew at Preah Palilay, stroll through parkland past Phimeanakas and Baphuon and reach Bayon.
Explore its captivating stone faces and intricate bas reliefs illustrating Angkorian life with your guide.
You can also enjoy sunset drinks at Angkor Thom whilst sailing on the complex’s vast moat.
Angkor Wat at sunrise
Witness the breathtaking sunrise at Angkor Wat, a marvel of ancient architecture and one of the world’s wonders. Relish at the temple’s grandeur and learn about the flourishing Khmer Empire during its construction between the 9th and 13th centuries.
Wander through the exquisitely adorned corridors adorned with intricate carvings, offering insight into the temple’s rich history and continued significance for local communities.
Visit the Siem Reap countryside
Venture beyond the temples of Siem Reap into rural landscapes little-changed since the era of Jayavarman VII. A brief journey from the city leads you to modern pagodas and rural communities where you can buy seasonal fruits straight from the tree.
Stay to dine in a villa surrounded by rice paddies, wandering across the levees and enjoy traditional Khmer music while the chef prepares your meal.
Where you could stay
Days 16-19
Three nights in Luang Prabang
Experience the charm and tranquility of Luang Prabang with a three-night stay in this UNESCO World Heritage city. Begin your journey with an early morning ritual, offering alms to saffron-robed monks, a time-honored tradition that showcases the city’s spiritual heart. Explore the picturesque waterfalls of Tat Khouangsi, where you can marvel at the cascading turquoise pools and enjoy a refreshing swim. There’s more to see.
Make it mine
Alms-giving ceremony
City tour
Waterfalls
An early morning alms-giving ceremony
Wake up before dawn to witness and take part in the centuries-old ritual of offering alms to hundreds of saffron-robed monks.
This tradition in Luang Prabang sees monks walking through the streets, accepting food offerings from locals and businesses. Rising early also allows time to explore the fresh market on your way back to the hotel for breakfast.
A city tour of Luang Prabang
Explore the UNESCO -protected city centre to appreciate its architecture, taking in notable Buddhist temples.
Visit the Royal Palace Museum, Wat Xiengthong, with its traditional roofs sweeping low to the ground, the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun, Wat Sene, the city’s oldest temple, and the shrines of Wat Aham and Wat Mai.
KuangSi waterfalls and village tour
Enjoy a visit to KuangSi waterfalls where the main cascade drops 90 metres into a series of pools connected by smaller falls. At low water levels, the pools shine with an incredible turquoise hue, perfect for a refreshing swim. On your walk through the surrounding forest, you’ll also pass the Free the Bears project, where rescued Asiatic Black (Moon) Bears and a Malayan Sun Bear live. These bears can often be seen foraging for food or napping in their enriched enclosures.
On the way back, consider stopping in the villages of Ban Ou, Ban Ouay and Ban Thapene to experience the diverse cultures of the Lao ethnic groups.
Where you could stay
This has changed the way I will travel/tour forever! I'll never book my own extended vacation ever again. My wife & I toured Indochina (Vietnam & Cambodia) over 18 days. It six destinations, nine flights, two boats & several tuk tuks. We experienced superb personal concierge service every step of the way from flight arrival to baggage claim to transportation…
Why book with Jacada
Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.
Positive Impact
We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.
