Vietnam & Cambodia Real Food Adventure

Vietnam & Cambodia Real Food Adventure

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19 Days From

$4496

$4046

Vietnam & Cambodia Real Food Adventure

19 Days Starting in Hanoi and ending in Siem Reap

Visiting: Hanoi, Halong Bay, Overnight Train, Hue, Hoi An, Quy Nhon, Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta , Phnom Penh, Kampot, Battambang, Siem Reap

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

TVZKC

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

15-99 years

Tour operated in:

English
From: $4496 $4046 Operator discount: -$450

NB: Prices correct on 02-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Chop, slice and chomp your way through the diverse flavours of South East Asia on this mouth-watering Real Food Adventure into Vietnam and Cambodia. Vietnam’s prized cuisine is bursting with fresh, spicy and complex flavours, while across the border, Cambodia’s food is humble, oft unexplored, and no less delicious. Drink in cafes and beer halls that sprawl out over city streets, buy fruit from wicker baskets draped over a vendor’s shoulders and sit at market stalls as aromatic noodle soups are whipped up in front of you. From a sunset cruise on Halong Bay and a cycle past herb farms near Hoi An to discovering the French influence of Phnom Penh and meeting charming local communities at Preah Dak, these South East Asian powerhouses will fill you with great food and even more memorable experiences.

Highlights

  • Embrace your adventurous side on a tour of Hue’s imperial monuments from the back of a motorbike (the local way of getting around). Then be treated to lunch, specially prepared for you by a chef who is the descendant of the royal family in the garden of their family home.

  • Two true bucket list experiences - sail through Halong Bay’s limestone karsts and island caves and explore Angkor Wat’s many temples with a local expert guide.

  • Don’t just taste your way around these foodie havens, don your chef hat and learn the recipes behind these incredible eats, too. Learn the secret spices directly from local chefs (often in their own homes) and be guided to the freshest ingredients in authentic local markets.

  • Homestays in the village of Banteay Chhmar and the Mekong Delta put you right in the heart of rural life, with the best fresh produce on your doorstep.

  • Discover the real flavours of Vietnam and Cambodia, digging into authentic eats like pho, banh mi, bun cha, fish amok and beef lok lak – a true feast for the senses.

  • See the sunrise at Angkor Wat, then head to a nearby village for a homemade traditional breakfast of Khmer noodles. Once fuelled, spend the day roaming the UNESCO World Heritage Angkor complex.

  • Don’t just taste your way around this foodie haven, don your chef hat and learn the recipes behind these incredible eats, too. Learn the secret spices directly from local chefs (often in their own homes) and be guided to the freshest ingredients in authentic local markets.

  • Cycle through Battambang meeting locals as you stop to see the production of fish paste, rice paper and rice wine, finishing with a delicious sticky rice tasting.

  • Feast on local delicacies and street food favourites, like pho, banh mi, bun cha, fish amok, num banh chok and black pepper ice cream.

  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Friends International. Donations help vulnerable youth in South East Asia build a brighter future with vocational training and employment readiness programs.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Hanoi

Location: Hanoi

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: dinner

Xin chao! Welcome to Vietnam. Your adventure begins in the country’s capital – Hanoi. If you arrive early, maybe grab an iconic coffee – typically served with condensed milk, or for the more adventurous, egg! You’ll meet your group and leader for an important welcome meeting at 5 pm, then head out for your first introduction to Vietnam’s lively culinary scene. Your leader will take you on a street food tour around the streets, as the sun goes down and the city comes alive at night. You might sink your teeth into bun cha (a grilled pork and noodle dish that’s loved in Hanoi) or try some banh cuon (steamed rice paper rolls) and lau (Vietnamese hot pot).

Included Activities:
-Hanoi - Street Food Experience Urban Adventure

Day 2: Halong Bay

Location: Halong Bay

Accommodation: Boat

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

This morning, hit the road for the spectacular World Heritage-listed site of Ha Long Bay. The harbour, with approximately 2000 limestone islands rising from the turquoise waters of Bac Bo Gulf, spans an area of about 1500 square km and is dotted with beaches and grottos. When you arrive, you’ll set sail on the emerald-green waters, gliding between limestone karsts to take in the incredible scenery from the best outlook of them all – the water! Then, you’ll explore Surprise Cave, one of the most striking caves in the bay, covering an area of more than 12,000 square m. In the afternoon, you’ll return to your boat and enjoy a delicious feast prepared by an onboard chef. Tonight’s stay is something special as you’ll be sleeping on the traditional boat, letting the water lull you to sleep and really taking in the beauty of the surrounding bay.

Included Activities:
-Halong Bay - Overnight Boat Cruise

Optional Activities:
-Halong Bay - Kayaking Tour

Day 3: Overnight Train

Location: Overnight Train

Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train

Meals Included: breaksfast

You’d be forgiven for thinking you were still dreaming when you wake up on the bay this morning. If you’re an early riser, you might like to organise an optional kayak experience before you head back to Hanoi this morning. When you arrive, you’ll board an overnight train bound for Hue. Although conditions are basic, overnight trains are a rewarding experience. It's an efficient way to travel long distances and a great way to get a sense of the country. Most trains have a dining carriage serving simple food, but maybe ask your leader for advice on which local salty and sweet snacks to stock up on before departure.

Day 4: Hue

Location: Hue

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: lunch

Arrive in Hue this morning – Vietnam’s former royal capital, where the cuisine is considered by many as the best in the country. The food is influenced by its imperial heritage (small dishes and a focus on aesthetic presentation) and its strong Buddhist heritage, reflected in the high proportion of vegetarian restaurants. After leaving your luggage at your hotel, embark on a tour of the city’s imperial monuments from the back of a motorbike. Stop past Thien Mu Pagoda, an active Buddhist monastery since 1601, where you'll see a car that belonged to one of the self-immolating monks of the 1963 protests. After some time exploring, it's time to eat! You’ll enjoy a plant-based Buddhist meal specially prepared for you by a chef who is a descendant of the royal family, in the garden of their family home. After, visit the royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, then visit the Imperial Citadel, which includes the Forbidden Purple City. The latter was almost totally destroyed during the Vietnam War's Tet Offensive, but the foliage-covered ruins are still atmospheric, and the gaping holes left by bombs give an idea of the destruction wreaked upon the country during the war. Tonight, maybe ask your leader for the best place to try imperial street specialties like banh hue (rice flour cakes stuffed with shrimp, pork and spices).

Included Activities:
-Hue - Royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc
-Hue - Highlights & back streets by motorbike
-Hue - Imperial City entrance and guided visit
-Hue - Thien Mu Pagoda

Day 5: Hoi An

Location: Hoi An

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

After a local breakfast of bun bo hue (a spiced beef noodle soup), you’ll go to a local coffee house where three generations of Hue locals are living together. Admire the traditional house and gardens before meeting your host, Mr Khoa. Learn about his passion for coffee with a demonstration of how to make Hue’s traditional salt coffee, from the bean roasting process to the secret ingredients. Maybe even have a go at making it yourself! After, head south by bus through coastal rice paddies and the mountainous Hai Van Pass to Hoi An. This beautifully restored city retains the feel of centuries past, making it the sort of place that grows on you the more you explore. After some time to settle into your hotel, you’ll make your way to a special beachside restaurant for a seafood hotpot dinner with your group. This is a particularly popular meal amongst the locals in Hoi An!

Included Activities:
-Hoi An - Cao Lau dinner + lantern orientation walk in Hoi An
-Hue - Salt coffee

Day 6: Hoi An

Location: Hoi An

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

Today, you’ll really get to know Hoi An – first up, your leader will take you on an orientation walk around the Ancient Town. Then, you’ll discover Reaching Out Tea House – a non-government organisation that supports the local deaf and mute community by providing employment and vocational training. The peace and quiet of this café stands in stark contrast to the bustling streets outside. While here, you’ll sip delicious teas in total silence – a tranquil experience you won’t soon forget. After a little time to relax, you’ll get ready for a cooking class with a local chef this afternoon. You’ll be escorted to a local market to shop for fresh ingredients and then taken through a culinary journey with hands-on demonstrations. Your local chef will even share the stories behind the yin and yang elements, unveiling the secret of home-cooked Vietnamese meals. Feast on your delicious creations, dishes that highlight the cooking of the Pho Hoi people.

Included Activities:
-Hoi An - Tea Tasting in Silence
-Hoi An - Old Town walking tour
-Hoi An - Cooking class with local chef
-Hoi An - Market tour

Day 7: Quy Nhon

Location: Quy Nhon

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

This morning after breakfast, you’ll visit a village to see the production process of Vietnamese rice whiskey (made from plain boiled rice). Learn about the history of this traditional practise and see how it's made, with a sample or two as you learn. Then, you’ll be treated to a home-cooked lunch in the village – a great opportunity to learn more about the locals. Head on to Quy Nhon – a coastal city flanked by super clear waters, traditional fishing boats and sandy beaches. Tonight, maybe watch the sunset at Ky Co Beach or ask your leader for the best dinner spots.

Included Activities:
-An Nhon - Rice winemaker
-An Nhon - Home-cooked lunch

Day 8: Overnight Train

Location: Overnight Train

Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Early this morning, you’ll visit the local market with your trip leader for a wander around and a fruit tasting of some local produce. Then, walk to Bun Ram Thuy where you'll try the region's popular crab noodle soup. Follow that up with a caffeine hit (or a cold drink to ease the morning heat). After, you’ll have free time and the use of a day room to rest, relax or explore at your own pace. Tonight, you’ll hop on an overnight train to Ho Chi Minh City.

Included Activities:
-Quy Nhon - Market visit

Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City

Location: Ho Chi Minh City

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: lunch

Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City this morning, then join a walking tour to get a feel for the city's frenetic, fascinating blend of old and new, East and West. You’ll notice a strong French influence here, which means excellent coffee and baguettes! Stop past the General Post Office and Notre Dame, then visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about the city’s sobering past. For lunch, you’ll take part in a cooking class where you'll learn some contemporary twists on traditional Vietnamese dishes with a passionate chef. Sit down and enjoy the delicious feast you've prepared over lunch and then enjoy a free afternoon to continue your explorations.

Included Activities:
-Ho Chi Minh City - War Remnants Museum
-Ho Chi Minh City - Cooking Class with local chef
-Ho Chi Minh City - City tour

Day 10: Mekong Delta

Location: Mekong Delta

Accommodation: Homestay

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

After breakfast this morning, kiss Ho Chi Minh City goodbye and make your way to the Mekong Delta. The delta is known as ‘Vietnam’s rice bowl’ for its abundance of rice paddies, fruit and flower orchards. When you arrive, you’ll hit the water and cruise up this mighty river, stopping at tropical fruit gardens and local cottage industries to sample honey, coconut candy and fruit, right at the source. Enjoy being paddled slowly along the quieter backwaters in a sampan, one of the most common forms of transport in these parts. Continue to your homestay for this evening. Meet your hosts and take some time to wander the garden, relax or lend a hand with dinner preparations. Enjoy a southern Vietnamese feast on the wide veranda overlooking the garden as the sun goes down.

Included Activities:
-Mekong Delta - Boat cruise with visits to local producers

Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City

Location: Ho Chi Minh City

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Enjoy the freshest fruit of the Mekong Delta for breakfast, then head back to Ho Chi Minh City. When you arrive, take a guided walk around one of Vietnam’s most pulsing markets – Ben Thanh. This is the perfect place to pick up any last-minute snacks, cooking utensils, ingredients, or presents for friends and family. Then, stop for a delicious crispy pork banh mi for lunch. The rest of the day is free to explore at your own pace. Tonight, you might like to get together with your group and toast to a great trip over a farewell dinner.

Included Activities:
-Ho Chi Minh City - Ben Thanh market visit
-Ho Chi Minh City - Banh mi

Day 12: Phnom Penh

Location: Phnom Penh

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

Check out of your hotel this morning and transfer to the airport for an unaccompanied flight to Phnom Penh. The flight will take around 50 minutes, after which you'll be met by another transfer driver who will take you to your hotel. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your new leader and fellow travellers. The Cambodian cooking pot combines an eclectic mix of local and international influences and has a flavour all its own. Kick off this food adventure with a welcome dinner at a local restaurant after your meeting. Later, maybe go for a drink or stroll along the famous Sisowath Quay.

Included Activities:
-Phnom Penh - Welcome Dinner

Day 13: Kampot

Location: Kampot

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Before you leave Phnom Penh this morning, confront Cambodia's tragic past on a guided tour of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, in a former high school that served as the notorious Security Prison 21 (S-21) for the Khmer Rouge regime from 1975 to 1979. See the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, which represent the tragic legacy of the Khmer Rouge. After, you’ll drive south by private vehicle, towards Kampot – one of Cambodia's most attractive old towns. Famous for its pepper, Kampot supplied most French restaurants for many years during colonial rule. Today, the region is also renowned for its durian (a spiky, pungent fruit that you’ll either love or hate). Tonight, maybe ask your leader about the sunset river cruises here and watch the gorgeous nightly display of colour, looking out for the resident fireflies.

Included Activities:
-Phnom Penh - Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21)
-Phnom Penh - The Killing Fields of Choeung Ek

Day 14: Kampot

Location: Kampot

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

This morning you’ll have breakfast at Epic Café – a social enterprise that provides employment for local people living with disabilities. After, visit the salt fields which stretch across much of Kampot’s coastline. After learning a bit about the salt production here, head to Phnom Chhngok – a Hindu cave temple built in the 7th century, dedicated to Shiva. Then it’s onto the Kampot Pepper Project. Grown in Cambodia for centuries, Kampot pepper is considered the world’s finest. Today, pepper is also seen as an important symbol of Cambodian regeneration. You’ll taste some pepper ice cream here before heading to Kep Beach for lunch – the nearby Kep markets serve fresh crab cooked to perfection – and eat on the pier overlooking the ocean. After lunch, walk along the coastline and explore the old oceanfront buildings. Kep was once Cambodia's most popular and prestigious beach town, but the Khmer Rouge destroyed many of Kep's mansions and villas. The ghostly remains now stand as a silent reminder.

Included Activities:
-Kampot - Phnom Chhnork
-Kampot - Food tour and lunch
-Kampot - Pepper plantation & salt field visit

Day 15: Phnom Penh

Location: Phnom Penh

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: dinner

If you’re a morning person, you might like to rise early and see the fishing boats arrive at the port with their daily catch. Then, maybe find a good spot for breakfast and enjoy a leisurely morning. After, you’ll return to Phnom Penh. When you arrive, meet with a passionate chef for a guided tour of the markets, learning about the building blocks of Khmer cuisine. Enjoy a hands-on cooking class and master Khmer staples such as samlor machou yuon (sour soup with fresh fish and tamarind) or bok svay (pounded green mango salad, usually served with dried fish or prawns). Feast on your creations over dinner.

Included Activities:
-Phnom Penh - Khmer Cooking Class and Market Tour

Day 16: Battambang

Location: Battambang

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Travel by private bus to Battambang (pronounced battambong)– Cambodia's second-largest city. Battambang is a pretty riverside town of French influence, friendly Khmer people and beautifully preserved colonial architecture. The city is famous for its many statues of animals and divinities that decorate the streets and buildings. It also lacks the traffic of Phnom Penh and the visitor numbers of Siem Reap, so it’s a great place to get a real slice of Cambodia. Your leader can recommend activities for your free afternoon. Perhaps join a local Battambang foodie for a home-cooked meal, tasting local dishes such as amok, Khmer curry and fried spicy chicken with homemade rice noodles.

Day 17: Siem Reap

Location: Siem Reap

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Take a bicycle ride into the countryside. The ride is easy and takes mostly shady roads through local villages. Along the way, stop to experience rice paper making, fruit drying and preparation, production of the famous prahok (fish paste) and rice wine making at local homes. Finish up at the best Kralan (sticky rice in bamboo) stall in the district. After, you’ll head to Siem Reap via private vehicle. When you arrive, head out for a street food tour with your local leader, tasting local dishes such as grilled fish or spicy fried chicken. Enjoy the atmosphere along the riverbank as the sun goes down, then head to a cocktail class and tasting. As you taste local liqueurs and snacks made with Cambodian herbs, mango and ginger, you’ll also learn how to make three popular cocktails. Later, maybe ask your leader for the spots to keep the party going.

Included Activities:
-Battambang - Rural food by bike tour
-Siem Reap - Street food tour
-Siem Reap - Cocktail class

Day 18: Siem Reap

Location: Siem Reap

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

After, head to the village of Preah Dak for a traditional breakfast of homemade num banh chok (a popular Khmer noodle dish). This village is famous for its lifestyle, language, spirituality, culture and of course, its food! You’ll see how the local families make the noodles as their ancestors made them, learn about this dish’s history and then end your experience with some seasonal fruits. Then it's time to explore more of the Angkor complex, built between the 9th and 13th centuries when the Khmer Empire was the pre-eminent influence in South East Asia. See the Bayon temple and the jungle-covered Ta Prohm. In the evening, enjoy a final dinner at a plant-based restaurant celebrating contemporary flavours. Using fresh produce from their own gardens, you’ll tuck into dishes like grilled eggplant, creamy pumpkin soup, vegetable curry and homemade lime pie.

Included Activities:
-Siem Reap - One day Angkor Pass
-Siem Reap - Village breakfast
-Siem Reap - Sunrise at Angkor Wat

Day 19: Siem Reap

Location: Siem Reap

Meals Included: breaksfast

Your adventure comes to an end this morning. There are no activities planned for today and you’re free to leave at any time. If you’re keen to continue your exploration of the Angkor complex, please speak with your leader about extending the length of your access pass.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Homestay (1 night), Hotel (14 nights), Overnight Boat (1 night), Overnight Sleeper Train (2 nights)

  • Hanoi - Welcome Dinner

  • Hanoi - Street eats and market tour

  • Halong Bay - Overnight Boat Cruise

  • Hue - Highlights & back streets by motorbike

  • Hue - Royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc

  • Hue - Thien Mu Pagoda

  • Hue - Imperial City entrance and guided visit

  • Hoi An - Seafood hotpot dinner

  • Hoi An - Cooking class with local chef

  • Hoi An - Market tour and garden visit

show more

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

Included Activities

  • Hanoi - Hidden Tea House visit & tasting
  • Hanoi - Master Winemaker visit & tasting
  • Hanoi - Xo Community visit
  • Halong Bay - Overnight Boat Cruise
  • Hue - Highlights & back streets by motorbike (lunch included)
  • Hue - Perfume River cruise
  • Hue - Royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc
  • Hue - Thien Mu Pagoda
  • Hue - Imperial City Full Day Tour Urban Adventure
  • Hoi An - Old Town walking tour
  • Hoi An - My Quang noodle demonstration
  • Hoi An - Old Town walking tour
  • Hoi An - Tra Que Culinary Village visit
  • Hoi An - Tra Que Hands-on cooking class with local chef
  • Ho Chi Minh City - War Remnants Museum
  • HCMC - City tour
  • HCMC - Ben Thanh market
  • Ho Chi Minh City - Cooking Class with Local Chef
  • Mekong Delta - Homestay & Home Cooked Meal
  • Phnom Penh - Welcome Dinner
  • Phnom Penh - Cyclo Food and City Tour
  • Phnom Penh - Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21)
  • Phnom Penh - The Killing Fields of Choeung Ek
  • Kampot - Orientation walk with local tipples
  • Kampot - Phnom Chhnork
  • Kampot - Food tour and lunch
  • Kampot - pepper plantation visit & salt field tour
  • Phnom Penh - Khmer Cooking Class and Market Tour
  • Battambang - Rural Food and Cycle Tour
  • Banteay Chhmar - Temple Visit
  • Siem Reap - Angkor Silk Farm
  • Banteay Chhmar - Village Market Tour and Cooking Demonstration
  • Siem Reap - Street Food Tour
  • Siem Reap - One day Angkor Pass

Transport

  • VIETNAM FLIGHTS:
  • Please provide your exact name (including middle name) as per passport 45 days prior to your trip's departure date for flight tickets to be issued. Internal flights will be on the following safety audited airlines: Pacific Airlines, Vietjet or Vietnam Airlines.

Accommodation

  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
  • Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
  • WINDOWLESS ROOMS:
  • Some hotels in South East Asia have windowless rooms, or windows that don't necessarily have a view. This is often due to high population density in large cities, however local building standards also do not require rooms to have windows. We do request rooms with windows, however they aren't always available.

Important Information

  • 1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Day 2 (Overnight Boat), Days 3 and 8 (Overnight sleeper train) and Day 10 (Homestay) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
  • 2. While we endeavour to cater for specific dietary requirements, some meals and food activities are set in advance and may be difficult to adjust. Please advise us of any dietary requirements at the time of booking so that we can ensure you’ll enjoy this trip.
  • 3. Please provide your full name exactly as it appears on your passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport) for transport tickets. Ticketing fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases, you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket if an amendment occurs.
  • 4. This trip includes flights as indicated on the trip map. The luggage allowance is 20kg for check in luggage and 7kg for carry on.

Mode of Transport

  • VIETNAM FLIGHTS:
  • Please provide your exact name (including middle name) as per passport 45 days prior to your trip's departure date for flight tickets to be issued. Internal flights will be on the following safety audited airlines: Pacific Airlines, Vietjet or Vietnam Airlines.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    The cuisine of Vietnam and Cambodia includes a lot of meat and seafood. For vegetarians and vegans we recommend reviewing the itinerary and inclusions to ensure that you will be able to fully participate and enjoy this trip. We also have many other trips to Vietnam and Cambodia which can accommodate a range of dietary requirements.

    Temperatures and humidity can be high in South East Asia, especially when walking around sites like the Angkor complex where there may be little shade. Be prepared by taking plenty of drink breaks and wearing appropriate skin protection. Some travellers find an umbrella handy to keep the sun off (this will also come in handy should it rain!).

    In order to see as much as possible, this trip involves some long journeys, including by overnight train where the amenities are shared and basic. For more about what this experience is like, see our blog post here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/what-to-expect-on-an-overnight....

    The motorbike tour of Hue has been assessed for safety and is closely monitored (helmets are provided and drivers are licensed). However, alternative transport can be arranged for those who would prefer not to travel by motorbike.

    Facilities at the Mekong Delta homestay are quite basic. But authentic, heart-warming experiences of local life should more than make up for the lack of creature comforts.

    This trip involves a long day of driving from Phnom Penh to Battambang (Day 16). Cambodian roads can also be rough and bumpy, and delays are sometimes unavoidable. A dash of patience will go a long way toward your enjoyment of this beautiful country!

    You will visit a number of temples on this trip, and this requires a level of modesty. Be sure to bring clothes that cover the arms and pants or skirts that go past the knees. A light scarf is also a good idea for covering shoulders and arms when it’s hot.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

Nicole  

North American Adventure

12-Oct-2021

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

Cambodia Discovery

22-Jan-2024

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

Merouane Harkat   Uk

Explore Southern Africa

08-Mar-2024

Best trip ever was, 2 things I didn't like the black mamba stop was wasting day and village ,so 2 night I think was just wasting, I could do 2 days in Kruger, and one more night in delta

Alan Perrott (Google Reviewer)  

We had a fantastic time...

13-Aug-2024

We had a fantastic time on the Botswana Highlights tour recently. We chose Intrepid because it seemed to suit what we wanted - well planned itinerary, small group, comfortable without being overly luxurious (and pricey), and supportive of the local community and environment. We weren't disappointed, and as we met with other like-minded travellers then we all had a great time. We are already planning our next Intrepid tour - maybe Vietnam & Cambodia :-)

1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Thursday

Nov 17, 2024 - Dec 05, 2024
$4630

Sunday - Thursday

Dec 08, 2024 - Dec 26, 2024
$4760

Sunday - Thursday

Dec 15, 2024 - Jan 02, 2025
$4496 $4046

Operator discount: -$450

Sunday - Thursday

Jan 05, 2025 - Jan 23, 2025
$4220

Sunday - Thursday

Jan 26, 2025 - Feb 13, 2025
$4140

Sunday - Thursday

Feb 09, 2025 - Feb 27, 2025
$4305

Sunday - Thursday

Mar 02, 2025 - Mar 20, 2025
$4470

Sunday - Thursday

Mar 30, 2025 - Apr 17, 2025
$4515

Sunday - Thursday

Apr 27, 2025 - May 15, 2025
$4305

Sunday - Thursday

May 25, 2025 - Jun 12, 2025
$4140

Sunday - Thursday

Jun 22, 2025 - Jul 10, 2025
$4140

Sunday - Thursday

Aug 24, 2025 - Sep 11, 2025
$4140

Sunday - Thursday

Sep 28, 2025 - Oct 16, 2025
$4305

Sunday - Thursday

Oct 19, 2025 - Nov 06, 2025
$4305

Sunday - Thursday

Oct 26, 2025 - Nov 13, 2025
$4140

Sunday - Thursday

Nov 16, 2025 - Dec 04, 2025
$4305

Sunday - Thursday

Dec 07, 2025 - Dec 25, 2025
$4470

Sunday - Thursday

Jan 04, 2026 - Jan 22, 2026
$4345

Sunday - Thursday

Jan 25, 2026 - Feb 12, 2026
$4345

Sunday - Thursday

Feb 08, 2026 - Feb 26, 2026
$4520

Sunday - Thursday

Mar 01, 2026 - Mar 19, 2026
$4695

Sunday - Thursday

Mar 29, 2026 - Apr 16, 2026
$4695

Sunday - Thursday

Apr 26, 2026 - May 14, 2026
$4520

Sunday - Thursday

May 24, 2026 - Jun 11, 2026
$4345

Sunday - Thursday

Jun 21, 2026 - Jul 09, 2026
$4345

Sunday - Thursday

Aug 23, 2026 - Sep 10, 2026
$4345

Sunday - Thursday

Sep 27, 2026 - Oct 15, 2026
$4520

Sunday - Thursday

Oct 18, 2026 - Nov 05, 2026
$4520

Sunday - Thursday

Oct 25, 2026 - Nov 12, 2026
$4345

Sunday - Thursday

Nov 15, 2026 - Dec 03, 2026
$4520

Sunday - Thursday

Dec 06, 2026 - Dec 24, 2026
$4470

Sunday - Thursday

Dec 13, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
$4695

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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