Vietnam Cambodia 10 Days

Exploring Vietnam and Cambodia in 10 days: a detailed review of the guided tour

Traveling through Vietnam and Cambodia in just 10 days might seem ambitious, but with a well-organized guided tour, it becomes an enriching experience rather than a frantic rush. This tour, offered by Grayline Vietnam and Threeland Travel, promises to cover the essential sights while taking away the stress of independent planning. From bustling Hanoi to the ancient temples of Angkor, it packs in a lot — and importantly, it keeps the experience authentic and manageable.

What we love about this experience is the ease of logistics. The tour handles accommodations, transfers, and activities, giving you more time to soak in the sights rather than worry about the details. Plus, the insights from local guides help uncover hidden stories and cultural nuances you might miss on your own. However, keep in mind that at around $741, this tour provides a solid value given the destinations covered and the included activities.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free adventure through Vietnam and Cambodia, especially if it’s their first visit. It’s perfect for those craving a balance of guided sightseeing with some free time to explore independently.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Covers key highlights across Vietnam and Cambodia, from iconic temples to vibrant cities.
• Guided Convenience: Expert guides handle logistics, making the trip smooth and informative.
• Cultural Depth: Stops like Cu Chi Tunnels and Angkor Wat offer insight into Vietnam’s wartime history and Cambodia’s ancient civilization.
• Balanced Pace: The itinerary balances sightseeing with enough free time for personal exploration.
• Value for Money: Priced around $741, including most meals, transportation, and entrance fees, it offers good value.
• Limited Group Size: With a maximum of 15 travelers, you get a more personalized experience.

A Detailed Look at the 10-Day Itinerary

Start in Hanoi – The Heart of Northern Vietnam

Your journey begins at Noi Bai Airport, where you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. One of the highlights here is the cycLo tour of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Imagine weaving through narrow streets on a bicycle rickshaw, soaking in the sights, smells, and sounds of this bustling area. The Old Quarter is full of character, with narrow shop fronts and lively street vendors, giving a real sense of local life.

The included traditional Vietnamese food tasting adds flavor — quite literally — to this initial experience. The guide’s insights help explain the significance of local dishes, making your first impression of Vietnam’s culinary scene more meaningful.

Day 2 – Tracing Ancient Vietnam in Ninh Binh

Next, a day trip takes you south to Ninh Binh, a lesser-known gem often called “the inland Halong Bay” due to its stunning limestone karsts. The boat trip in Tam Coc is a highlight, letting you glide past towering limestone formations that seem to rise directly from lush green paddies. This scenic ride is not only beautiful but also peaceful, offering a break from city hustle.

Later, you’ll explore the site of a 10th-century king’s palace and admire wooden reliefs at the Dinh and Le temples. These ruins give a tangible sense of Vietnam’s history, which guides often illuminate with interesting stories—something that travelers from reviews have appreciated.

Day 3 & 4 – Marveling at Halong Bay

Heading to UNESCO World Heritage site Halong Bay is perhaps the most iconic part of this trip. The cruise on a large boat provides ample opportunity to enjoy spectacular limestone formations, floating villages, and grottoes like the Surprising Grotto. We loved the way the tour combines sightseeing with relaxation, offering options like kayaking or swimming.

The overnight stay on the boat means witnessing a sunset over the bay, an experience that’s hard to beat. On Day 4, after a visit to Luon Cave, you return to Hanoi and catch a flight to Ho Chi Minh City. The transfer process is straightforward, making it easy to connect between destinations.

Day 5 & 6 – Discovering the Mekong Delta and Cu Chi Tunnels

The Mekong Delta day trip is a true highlight for those interested in local life and tropical scenery. Visiting My Tho, you’ll cruise along the Mekong River, passing riverside villages and enjoying tropical fruits and folk music. The experience of seeing how local communities live along the riverbanks and visiting family factories offers authentic insight into Vietnam’s rural economy.

In contrast, the Cu Chi Tunnels provide a sobering look into Vietnam’s wartime history. Stretching over 200 km, these tunnels reveal the ingenuity and resilience of Vietnamese soldiers. Reviews mention that the tunnels are inhabited and dug by hand, which adds to their authenticity. Guides often explain how these tunnels changed the course of history, making this stop both educational and emotional.

Days 7-10 – Exploring Angkor and Siem Reap

After flying to Siem Reap, you’ll have some free time to settle in and explore or relax. The next day is dedicated to visiting Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat. The grandeur of Angkor Wat, combined with the intricate carvings and the serenity of Bayon’s smiling faces, makes for an unforgettable experience. Many travelers comment on the impressive preservation of these ruins, and the view from Phnom Bakheng hill offers a panoramic shot of the entire complex.

On your final days, you have the flexibility to explore at your own pace — whether revisiting favorite temples or discovering local markets. The tour concludes with free leisure time, allowing a gentle wind-down.

Transportation & Logistics

Throughout the trip, you’ll travel in air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring comfort despite long travel days. Transfers are included between most major stops, and the tour handles all the logistics, which we found significantly reduces stress. The shuttle bus between Hanoi and Halong Bay is a convenient option, and flights between Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Siem Reap are arranged by the tour provider.

Group sizes are capped at 15 travelers, which means more personalized interaction. From reviews, we gather that guides like Mr. Tuan in Hanoi and Mr. Sophea in Siem Reap are knowledgeable and friendly, often sharing stories that give context beyond the guidebook.

Meals & Extras

Most meals are included, with breakfasts, some lunches, and dinners provided. The quality and variety of food reflect local flavors, from Hanoi street food to Mekong River seafood. Waters are supplied during the day, and optional tips and personal expenses are not covered, so budgeting for extras is wise.

Cost & Value

At around $741, this tour offers a comprehensive package of transportation, guiding, accommodations, and most meals. Considering the inclusion of key attractions like Angkor Wat, Halong Bay cruise, and the Cu Chi Tunnels, it’s a competitive price point for such an ambitious itinerary. For travelers wanting a stress-free way to see both Vietnam and Cambodia, it’s a solid investment.

Final thoughts: Is this tour right for you?

This 10-day guided journey is best suited for those who want to maximize their time without obsessing over every detail. It’s especially appealing if you prefer traveling with a group and appreciate local insights that make the experience richer. If you’re interested in history, culture, and iconic sights but don’t want to spend weeks planning, this tour strikes a good balance.

However, keep in mind that tight schedules mean less flexibility for spontaneous exploration. If you prefer to explore at your own pace, or are seeking luxury accommodations, this might not be the perfect fit. Still, for most travelers looking for value and authenticity, it’s an efficient way to get a broad taste of Vietnam and Cambodia.

FAQ

Does the tour include all transportation?
Yes, the tour provides transportation by air-conditioned vehicle for all major transfers, including between Hanoi, Halong Bay, Ho Chi Minh City, and Siem Reap, as well as local boat trips and flights.

Are meals included?
Most meals are included as specified in the itinerary—breakfasts, some lunches, and dinners, mostly featuring local cuisine.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience and easier interaction with guides.

Are entrance fees included?
Entrance fees to attractions like the Cu Chi Tunnels are included, but some sites like Angkor Wat require an entrance fee which is not included in the tour price.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
While it’s generally suitable for most travelers, those with mobility issues might find some sites like tunnels or temples challenging due to uneven surfaces and stairs.

What are the accommodation standards?
Accommodations are of the class quoted or similar, offering comfort and convenience but not luxury. Specific hotel details are not listed, so consider this if you prefer upscale lodging.

Is visa assistance provided?
Yes, the tour includes a Vietnam visa approval letter. Travelers are responsible for Cambodia visa arrangements, but the process is straightforward with this support.

What should I pack?
Light, breathable clothing for warm weather, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a waterproof jacket for boat trips are recommended.

Can I customize this tour?
The itinerary is fixed, but some optional activities and free time are included. For more tailored experiences, contact the provider directly.

In the end, this Vietnam-Cambodia 10-day tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed adventure with expert guidance and authentic sights. It’s perfect for first-time travelers eager to see the highlights without the hassle — and it leaves ample room for personal moments and discoveries along the way.