Embark on an 11-day cruise aboard the Scenic Spirit. Explore Cambodia and Vietnam on a river cruise and land journey from Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City. Begin with three nights in Siem Reap, where you can tour Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm and explore local markets. Cruise the Mekong River aboard the Scenic Spirit with stops at Kampong Cham, Angkor Ban, Silk Island, and Phnom Penh. Activities include local village visits, cooking classes, historical tours, and cultural performances. Cross into Vietnam to explore Tan Chau, Sa Dec, and Cai Be, with options such as bird sanctuary visits, temple tours, and sampan excursions. End the trip with a transfer to Ho Chi Minh City.
Highlights
Uncover Tan Chau’s cultural gems from bird sanctuaries to sacred temples
Admire Angkor Wat’s divine beauty under ideal late-day lighting
Visit Banteay Srei and uncover Cambodia’s pink-hued ancient artistry
Explore Siem Reap’s elegant French colonial charm and vibrant spirit
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Welcome to Cambodia and the culturally rich city of Siem Reap. Your hotel offers a refined blend of historic elegance and modern luxury, serving as your base for the next three nights. Designed with French colonial architecture and enhanced by locally inspired interiors, the property features premium amenities and exceptional service. Enjoy the day at your leisure before joining your Scenic Tour Director and fellow guests this evening for a welcome briefing and dinner.
Your day begins with a sumptuous champagne buffet breakfast at the hotel.
Freechoice:
As part of Scenic’s Freechoice you have multiple options to choose from. Explore the 10th-century Banteay Srei Temple, a temple commonly referred to as the Ladies Temple because of its pinkish sandstone and dedication to the Hindu god Shiva. Afterwards visit the Landmine Museum, founded in 1997 with the aim to make the country safe through the removal of mines.
On another option visit Senteurs d'Angkor workshop to try your hand at producing your own local souvenir. Through different hands-on workstations, discover how the artisans make by hand soap with coconut oil, natural cosmetics, subtly scented balms, aromatic candles and local spices in traditional ways.
Alternatively, if you have enjoyed being on the water, sail on Tonle Sap Lake (July to February), a picturesque UNESCO biosphere reserve and dive deep into discovery when visiting and experiencing the life of a floating village.
Or take flight in a tethered balloon to discover the aerial beauties of the combination between traditional and modern Siem Reap. Enjoy the fresh air and take some remarkable photographs of the skyline as you lift into the skies of Siem Reap overlooking Angkor Wat below before visiting a Lotus Flower workshop. (Not available July-October 2025).
This afternoon, discover the iconic Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument. Originally built in the 12th century as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu, it was later transformed into a Buddhist sanctuary. Visiting in the afternoon offers optimal lighting for capturing striking images of this architectural masterpiece.
In the evening, enjoy VIP premium reserved seating at the vibrant Phare Circus. Far more than a traditional circus, this captivating performance blends theater, music, dance, and contemporary circus arts to share compelling Cambodian stories—both historical and modern.
Enrich
Begin the day with an early morning Scenic Enrich, marvel at the sunrise over the magnificent Angkor Wat before moving to a special location near a temple for a scrumptious champagne breakfast with food prepared by a Scenic sponsored, NGO supported local bakery school.
After breakfast, visit the atmospheric, jungle covered Ta Prohm Temple, before stopping at Angkor Thom and the multi-faced Bayon Temple. Fortunately, you have the remainder of the afternoon to discover more of the Siem Reap markets or relax at your luxury hotel after your early morning start.
Enrich
The final Scenic Enrich is truly a special and exclusive one, one that is best experienced first-hand to fully appreciate it’s scale. Your tour directors and Scenic team will leave you in awe as you enter a private magical gala themed dinner at Prasat Kravan, a small 10th-century temple consisting of five reddish brick towers on a common terrace. Including free flow drinks and a show featuring Apsara dancers in front of the candle lit temple ruins, this evening brings a most incredible end to what is a remarkable trip.
Discover the rural side of Cambodia as your coach will transfer you to Kampong Cham where the breathtaking Scenic Spirit awaits. Before arriving, visit the stunning Khmer bridge at Kampong Kdei, Kampong Thom and a stone cutters village.
After boarding, begin your cruise in style with a cocktail reception hosted by your Cruise Director. Take a stroll around the decks to orientate yourself as to where all the amenities are. After your welcome dinner, settling into your private suite does not mean you settle for service. At any time, your dedicated personal butler is free to swing by with a nightcap and delivery of your preferred pillows.
Awake as you approach Wat Hanchey, an ancient hilltop pagoda and monastery. After learning about life as a novice monk from one of the locals, wander around the complex and admire the view over the Mekong River and surrounding countryside. Sail back to Kampong Cham.
Freechoice:
This afternoon, explore Kampong Cham and its surrounds. Choose to learn about local folklore at Phnom Pros, a mountaintop pagoda that has long been part of a traditional legend. Tragically, in more modern times, the site was used as a Killing Field by the Khmer Rouge. The temple now features a Buddha Garden and is home to a local troop of monkeys. Afterwards, visit Wat Nokor Bachey, a unique architectural experiment that blends an Angkorian era temple with a new temple built inside it.
Alternatively, explore Kampong Cham’s history and industry with a drive past shop houses, remnants of the French colonial era, and the large Central market. Visit a local rubber plantation established by the French before stopping at a village known for growing betel nut, an important part of Cambodian culture.
Your third option today is a visit to Koh Penh Village. Located on Pen (Bamboo) Island, it’s only accessible by local remork after crossing by bamboo bridge or ferry from Kampong Cham. This remote village gives you a fascinating insight into the simple, rural lifestyle of farmers in Cambodia.
If you have not had a chance to enjoy your spectacular suite on the Scenic Spirit and are not feeling like socializing, it might be time to unwind and dine in private. Your dedicated butler can arrange for a beautiful meal to be served in your room or on the balcony as you enjoy the fresh air of the Mekong, overlooking the gorgeous sunset of the Cambodian skyline as you sail to Angkor Ban.
Upon arrival in Angkor Ban, explore its historical rural wooden houses, which survived the Khmer rouge, visit a school that teaches English to the local students after their regular school lessons and visit a local pagoda where a segregated and solemn excursion at a Buddhist pagoda awaits.
Enrich
Receive a traditional blessing from a monk and learn how to pray in a Buddhist pagoda before partaking in an alms ceremony, which contributes to the daily meal of the resident monks.
Afterwards reboard Scenic Spirit for lunch and sail downstream to the island of Oknha Tey, dedicated to the art of silk weaving. Travel by tuk tuk to the farm and learn about the process of silk production. Return to Scenic Spirit and some free time. The option to immerse yourself in local culture with the team is available by learning how to make and wear the Cambodian scarf.
Some down time is a great way to relax and what better way to do that than heading to the Wellness Center or Beauty Salon for a bit of pampering.
Sunset Drinks
Get an outfit ready for an evening of style with a Sundowners cocktail reception on the sundeck against the backdrop of Phnom Penh’s lights and stunning scenery as you approach the capital of Cambodia.
Later before dinner, enjoy a cultural performance by the Cambodian Student and Children’s Organization.
After breakfast, it will be time to head out and explore the city.
Freechoice:
You can choose to journey to the infamous Killing Fields and take a tour of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, housed inside a former prison. These sites are a sobering reminder of the terrors unleashed by the Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s. This moving tour will give you a deeper insight into the tumultuous history of Cambodia and the resilience of its people.
Passionate foodies may like to choose a hands-on cooking class. Take a trip to the bustling market with a local chef to purchase your ingredients, then head back to the kitchen to cook your own lunch, testing out the styles and flavors of Cambodian cuisine.
Alternatively, travel by remok, a local style of tuk tuk, to explore the French architecture and history of Phnom Penh. Finish the tour with shopping at the Central Market, famed for its unique Art Deco design and bright yellow façade.
At the conclusion of your tour, return to Scenic Spirit for lunch. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure.
Enrich
Later this evening, revel in Phnom Penh by City Lights tour. You can witness the nightlife of the capital before stopping at a local rum distillery for your exclusive Scenic Sundowners experience, including a private tour and tasting.
Even the most developing countries have a standard of luxury and opulence. You can experience this this morning at the Royal Palace with the famous Silver Pagoda within, on your included visit to this must-see attraction. Set on the riverfront, this dazzling palace was built in the 1860s and still serves as the official residence of the King of Cambodia. Upon returning to the ship set sail and say goodbye to Phnom Penh as you sail to the Cambodian and Vietnamese border.
A relaxing afternoon of sailing will allow you to take advantage of the many exclusive facilities on the Scenic Spirit. Sometimes everyone needs a break from the hustle and bustle of this exciting cruise and for those bookworms, kick back in the Scenic Spirit library, or head to the heart of this ship, which is the Scenic Spirit lounge, a great place to unwind with a glass of wine. Obtain some background knowledge of each port and get the key information for the exciting activities ahead. With traveling throughout South-East Asia comes the heat and what better way to cool down than socializing with a fresh cocktail and swimming in the pool all or just settle into the private comfort of your luxury suite and private balcony.
After clearing immigration into Vietnam at the border, you can experience a fantastically themed dinner on board the Spirit along with a lion dance performed by locals on the expansive Sundeck.
You may want to start the day with some exercise in the on-board gym, an early morning yoga class or relax your muscles in the sauna. Then set off to discover the areas surrounding Tan Chau.
Freechoice:
You could leave the city life behind at Tra Su Bird Sanctuary in Tra Su Forest. Travel by sampan through endless tranquil waterways, flanked by mangroves and lush greenery. This eco reserve spans 850 hectares and is an ecological haven for fauna and flora, home to more than 100 species of waterbirds.
Or experience a traditional way of life on Evergreen Island, joining local farmers for a morning of discovery. Back in Tan Chau, ride in a xe loi, a three-wheeled bicycle rickshaw that was introduced by the French in the 19th century and is a common form of transportation in rural Vietnam. Visit the recently renovated, brightly colored Cao Dai temple. Caodaism is a new religion, established in 1926 in the southern Vietnamese city of Tây Ninh, and brings together beliefs and practices from Buddhism, Christianity, Taoism and Confucianism. Here, you can learn more about the mix of ideas that form the basis of this fascinating religion.
For your third choice, board a speedboat to visit Chau Doc, a major city in the Mekong Delta, and Tay An temple. Set at the foot of Sam Mountain, this elaborate temple is a mixture of Indian and Islamic architecture. Afterwards, board another sampan to visit Vinh Te canal and view life along the riverfront of Chau Doc, before stopping at a family-operated fish farm on your way back to Scenic Spirit.
What better way to end the first day in Vietnam than a delicious cocktail by the pool on board the Spirit along with a great view of the Mekong as you set sail for Sa Dec.
When you arrive in Sa Dec, board your sampan once again to explore the lively wet market where you can meet the sellers and marvel at their wares, including live fish, frogs and even snakes. This two-hour exploration will take you deep into the local lifestyle. You can also see the grand home of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le, a Chinese merchant who inspired Marguerite Duras’ novel L’Amant. Your expert guide will reveal the secrets behind this passionate tale of tragic love. After your morning excursion, head back to the Scenic Spirit for lunch whilst sailing downstream to Cai Be.
Freechoice:
This afternoon enjoy your choice from the Scenic Freechoice activities.
Choose to travel via sampan to Tan Phong, a small island located near Cai Be town that is rich in alluvial soil suitable for tropical fruit orchards all year round. With a total area of more than 1,000 hectares, surrounded by silted sandbanks, canals and a mild temperature, Tan Phong has long been a friendly destination for eco-tourism. On arrival, try a hands-on experience at a workshop specialized in weaving water hyacinth into artistic crafts. Board a motorized buggy for a ride through endless fruit orchards, stopping to enjoy the tropical fruits and interact with a farm owner. Reboard the sampan and cruise to Cái Bè town to discover the local cottage industry where families make rice-paper and sweets from pop-corn, pop-rice and coconut.
Alternatively take a sampan from the Scenic Spirit to savor a delicious afternoon tea at the Le Longanier, a French colonial house restaurant, where staff will welcome you with tea, coffee and a range of local fruit and snacks for your tasting. You can dive into a local experience with a band playing music and performing traditional Vietnamese songs.
If you would prefer to enjoy the comforts of your ship, the highly skilled bar team is ready to welcome you to a hands-on cocktail/mocktail making class featuring fresh local ingredients.
Back on board you can have time to relax and overlook the gorgeous sunset of the Vietnamese skyline and life on the Mekong River before your engaging farewell dinner with the crew as you sail to My Tho.
Day 11: Mekong Cruise | Disembark | Ho Chi Minh City
1 Breakfast
It is time to bid farewell to the Scenic Spirit as you wave goodbye to the staff and commence your 90 min drive to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival you can be dropped off at the Caravelle Hotel Saigon or head to the airport as you get ready to depart Vietnam for your homeland or extended travels. Leave with a full camera and stunning memories to treasure.
Please book your flight to depart out of Ho Chi Minh City after 03:00 PM.
This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$11,735
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
Select a Date
Deluxe Suite (C)
32m2/344ft2 - These spacious Suites are located on the Jewel, Sapphire, and Diamond Decks. Each has a private full-length balcony, walk-in wardrobe, and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin with a separate toilet and shower.
Select a Date
Deluxe Suite (CA)
32m2/344ft2 - These spacious Suites are located on the Jewel, Sapphire, and Diamond Decks. Each has a private full-length balcony, walk-in wardrobe, and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin with a separate toilet and shower.
Select a Date
Deluxe Suite (BA)
32m2/344ft2 - These spacious Suites are located on the Jewel, Sapphire, and Diamond Decks. Each has a private full-length balcony, walk-in wardrobe, and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin with a separate toilet and shower.
Select a Date
Deluxe Suite (BB)
32m2/344ft2 - These spacious Suites are located on the Jewel, Sapphire, and Diamond Decks. Each has a private full-length balcony, walk-in wardrobe, and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin with a separate toilet and shower.
Select a Date
Deluxe Suite (B)
32m2/344ft2 - These spacious Suites are located on the Jewel, Sapphire, and Diamond Decks. Each has a private full-length balcony, walk-in wardrobe, and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin with a separate toilet and shower.
Select a Date
Deluxe Suite (A)
32m2/344ft2 - These spacious Suites are located on the Jewel, Sapphire, and Diamond Decks. Each has a private full-length balcony, walk-in wardrobe, and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin with a separate toilet and shower.
Select a Date
Grand Deluxe Suite (RD)
40m2/430ft2 - These eight suites on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space, impeccable service and thoughtful touches. Enjoy an outdoor balcony, separate lounge and dining area, extra-large walk in wardrobe and a luxurious oversized bathroom.
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Royal Panorama Suite
80m2/861ft2 - This is the largest suite on the Mekong river. Being up forward on the Diamond Deck, enjoy fantastic views of the passing scenery from your private terrace with an outdoor Jacuzzi and day bed. Both Suites have a separate lounge and dining area, walk-in dressing room, and a luxurious oversized bathroom offering a separate bathtub, toilet, and shower.
Initial deposit is Varies on itinerary, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure by Visa or Mastercard. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
10 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, 8 Dinners
10 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Wifi
Porterage
Port taxes and charges
All tipping and gratuities
Complimentary beverages
Excluded
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Additional excursions during free time
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Select drinks including a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits are not included in the package and may be available at an additional charge
Passport or Visa fees
All travel invoice risks. We strongly recommend you to take out comprehensive travel insurance with a reputable insurance company to cover you against risks associated with your tour. Including cover for loss of luggage, medical expense, and cost and expenses incurred due to cancellations, delays, or other disruptions
Beyond expectations! Then again we weren't sure what to expect. Lovely stay at the lodge, met other like-minded travelers (many had their trips planned by Adventure Life) and the owner was a gracious hostess. It felt like you were one happy family, visiting with a favorite aunt.
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