Have questions? We're here.
Local moving cattle through the fields

Riches of the Mekong

Example 16 Day Cruise aboard MS Amadara
Talk with an expert
Build your ideal Vietnam trip. Call 1.406.541.2677
Start Planning My Trip
Embark on a 16-day cruise with Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Siem Reap, and Ho Chi Minh aboard the MS Amadara. Your adventure begins in Vietnam’s vibrant capital, Hanoi, before journeying to the stunning Ha Long Bay for an unforgettable overnight stay aboard a luxurious ship. A short flight takes you to Siem Reap, the gateway to the ancient Khmer Empire, where you uncover the wonders of Angkor Archaeological Park. Step into history as you explore Angkor Wat’s iconic temples, including the intricately carved Banteay Srei, the grand city of Angkor Thom, the majestic Terrace of the Elephants, the enigmatic Bayon temple, and the vine-clad Ta Prohm—often called the “jungle temple.” Sail along the Mekong River, where time slows, and the rhythms of rural life unfold before you, offering an authentic glimpse into a world unchanged for centuries. Visit charming villages, bustling local markets, artisanal workshops, and a serene monastery before exploring two dynamic capital cities. Conclude your journey with a two-night stay in Ho Chi Minh City—formerly Saigon, once known as the “Paris of the Orient.”
Monks conversing in a Buddist templeRoyal Palace in Phnom PenhBuddist sculpturesVariety of Vietnamese food offered by a vendor in Hoi AnLocal moving cattle through the fields
Highlights
  • Explore Hanoi’s rich heritage, where ancient meets modern seamlessly
  • Cruise Ha Long’s stunning waters, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs
  • Discover Angkor Thom’s grandeur, home to iconic Khmer architectural wonders
  • Sail Mekong’s timeless villages, witnessing daily life along the river
Activity Level: Variable
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.
0

Full Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, seamlessly blends its rich cultural heritage with a dynamic modern spirit. From ancient temples and French colonial architecture to sleek skyscrapers, scenic parks, and serene lakes, the city offers a captivating mix of tradition and contemporary charm.

Day 2: Hanoi, Vietnam

Explore Hanoi's iconic historical and cultural landmarks on a guided tour, including the Temple of Literature and Tran Quoc Pagoda, one of Vietnam's oldest temples. Visit the notorious prison famously nicknamed the "Hanoi Hilton" by American POWs during the Vietnam War. Experience the city's lively Old Quarter with an authentic cyclo ride, then immerse yourself in Vietnam's rich heritage with a traditional water puppet show.

Day 3: Hanoi | Ha Long Bay

Ethereal Ha Long Bay is considered by many to be the Eighth Natural Wonder of the World. Board an elegantly appointed ship designed with all the modern conveniences to ensure smooth sailing for an incredible once-in-a-lifetime experience. The backdrop of the bay’s magnificent scenery and dramatic limestone cliffs and rock formations provide you with the perfect setting for a memorable sojourn.

Day 4: Ha Long Bay | Siem Reap, Cambodia

Spend the morning sailing across the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, with more than 2,000 small islands rising from the water like a dragon’s back. Later in the morning, disembark the ship and transfer to Hanoi Airport for a short flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia, the gateway to Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former capital of the Khmer Empire.

Day 5: Siem Reap | Angkor Thom

Begin your morning exploration of the Angkor temple complex at Angkor Thom, meaning "the great city." This is home to Bayon Temple, best known for its gigantic smiling stone faces and the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King. Then, visit nearby Ta Prohm, known as the "Kingdom of Trees," to see how the temple stones have intertwined with thick forest vegetation over the centuries. Afternoon excursions take you to the fascinating jewel in the crown of Angkorian art, Banteay Srei, meaning "Citadel of Women," as it has been said that the carving is too fine to have been done by man's hand. Cap this memorable day off with a special "Apsara Dance Show" at your hotel, featuring local Cambodian/Khmer folk dancers.

Day 6: Siem Reap | Angkor Wat

Discover the heart and soul of Cambodia and the most iconic of all Angkorian Temples, Angkor Wat. This is one of the most significant religious monuments ever constructed and a true masterpiece of Khmer architecture built by King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century to honor the Hindu god, Vishnu.

Day 7: Siem Reap | Kampong Cham | Embark

Transfer via motorcoach to the AmaDara in Kampong Cham for your seven-night cruise. Board a motorcoach to the Twin Mountains, known as Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei (male and female mountains). In the annals of Khmer legend, the twin mountains were formed due to a competition between the men and women of an ancient Cambodian kingdom to resolve which gender would be responsible for wedding proposals. Later, join fellow guests for an evening Welcome Dinner. 

Day 8: Angkor Ban | Oknhatey

During the morning, go on a walking tour to Angkor Ban, one of the few villages in Cambodia that was not destroyed under the Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s. People still live in their traditional wooden abodes and keep their old cultural traditions alive. Hundreds of wooden houses stand intact on stilts, shaded with banana trees, among the hustle and bustle of the daily agricultural ongoing of the local villagers. After visiting here, the ship sails to Oknhatey, or “Silk Island,” located on the lush banks of the Mekong River. This island is known for its rich tradition of silk weaving. While here, visit a local elementary school and observe traditional silk weaving, an art preserved for centuries. Your ship moors in Oknhatey village.

*Based on seasonality, the port of Angkor Ban may be inaccessible from August - September. During this time, Wat Hanchey will replace Angkor Ban as the port of call.

Day 9: Phnom Penh

Your cruise continues to sail to Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia. This morning’s excursion takes you to the highlights of Phnom Penh, followed by a visit to the Royal Palace, the spectacular Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum, which has an outstanding collection of Khmer crafts. Alternatively, you may wish to shop for unique treasures at the bustling, yellow-colored Central Market after you visit the Royal Palace. In the afternoon, prepare for a moving visit to Cambodia’s infamous Killing Fields and the Khmer Rouge’s grim Tuol Sleng S21 detention center (Genocide Museum). After returning to the ship, enjoy Khmer folk dancing performed by local children in the Saigon Lounge.

Day 10: Phnom Penh | Oudong

The morning excursion takes you to Oudong, Cambodia's former royal capital, from the early 17th century until 1866. Today, Oudong is a place of pilgrimage for Cambodians. While here, be treated to a memorable Buddhist Blessing Ceremony at a monastery. You may walk around Oudong's monastery or take an active walking tour to see panoramic views of the Oudong plain. Later in the day, experience Phnom Penh via a tuk tuk ride and be enchanted by the city's French Colonial architecture and tree-lined boulevards set amidst monumental Angkorian architecture, or continue your visit to Wat Phnom, a famous landmark of Phnom Penh.

Day 11: Border Crossing

Spend the day cruising the Mekong River as your ship crosses the border into Vietnam. 

Day 12: Tan Chau | Sa Dec, Vietnam

Enjoy visiting Tan Chau, a small town on the Mekong River unspoiled by tourism. Be treated to an authentic experience on a traditional "xe-loi" (trishaw) ride around the town, with stops at silk-making and rattan mat workshops. You may also choose the trishaw ride with visits to craftsmen's workshops and an active walking tour to "Evergreen Island." As a third alternative, explore the stunning Mekong Delta on an intimate tour through Vietnam's Tra Su Forest and Sanctuary. Board a traditional sampan boat and glide through this diverse ecosystem that includes more than 70 species of birds, including the painted stork and oriental darter, and lush greenery encompassing majestic cajuput trees, lotuses, water lilies and a carpet of bright green moss in the rainy season that appears to glow as you gently drift through it. Later in the day, cruise to Sa Dec.

*Please Note: Tra Su Forest visit is capacity controlled.

Day 13: Sa Dec | Cai Be, Vietnam

Once ashore in Sa Dec, tour the town where French writer Marguerite Duras spent many years in her youth. Visit a colorful local market and Cao Dai Temple, home to the unique religion of Caodaism in Southern Vietnam. It is a fusion of Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Confucianism. You can have an opportunity to visit candy and rice paper-making workshops, or you may also choose to add an active walking tour to the historic Kiet Old House and cap the day off with a festive Farewell Dinner on board.

Day 14: Disembark | My Tho | Ho Chi Mihn City

Disembark the AmaDara in My Tho Port and transfer to Ho Chi Minh City. Vietnam’s former capital of Indochina was once known as the “Paris of the Orient,” today, it is an industrial, cultural, and educational hub. Explore famous landmarks such as the former Presidential Palace, the Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the War Remnants Museum before visiting the Ben Thanh Market—one of the oldest and most iconic structures in Ho Chi Minh City. 

Day 15: Ho Chi Minh City

Visit Chu Chi Tunnels, an immense underground network built during the Vietnam War. Spend your afternoon at leisure exploring more of Ho Chi Minh City. 

Day 16: Depart Ho Chi Mihn City, Vietnam

  • 1 Breakfast
Bid farewell to Vietnam as you prepare for your homeward flight.

Ship/Hotel

MS Amadara

Amadara-Sundeck Pool
Amadara-Foklore Entertainment
AmaDara chef's table

Hanoi - Hotels

Ha Long Bay - Hotels

Ho Chi Minh City - Hotels

Siem Reap - Hotels

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

  • Apr 15, 2025from $5,488
  • Aug 12, 2025from $5,818
  • Aug 26, 2025from $5,918
  • Sep 9, 2025from $6,118
  • Sep 23, 2025from $6,318
  • Oct 7, 2025from $6,418
  • Nov 4, 2025from $6,418
  • Nov 18, 2025from $6,418
  • Dec 2, 2025from $6,518
  • Dec 16, 2025from $6,518
  • Dec 30, 2025from $6,728
  • Jan 13, 2026from $6,728
  • Jan 27, 2026from $6,728
  • Feb 10, 2026from $6,728
  • Feb 24, 2026from $6,628
  • Mar 10, 2026from $6,528
  • Mar 24, 2026from $6,328
  • Apr 7, 2026from $5,928
  • Apr 21, 2026from $5,828
  • Aug 11, 2026from $6,228
  • Aug 25, 2026from $6,328
  • Sep 8, 2026from $6,528
  • Sep 22, 2026from $6,728
  • Oct 6, 2026from $6,828
  • Oct 20, 2026from $6,828
  • Nov 3, 2026from $6,828
  • Nov 17, 2026from $6,828
  • Dec 1, 2026from $6,928
  • Dec 15, 2026from $6,928
  • Dec 29, 2026from $6,928
  • Jan 12, 2027from $6,928
  • Jan 26, 2027from $6,928
  • Feb 9, 2027from $6,928
  • Feb 23, 2027from $6,928
  • Mar 9, 2027from $6,728
  • Mar 23, 2027from $6,528
  • Apr 6, 2027from $6,328
  • Apr 20, 2027from $6,228
 Apr 2025>
SMTWTFS
303112345
6789101112
13141516171819
20212223242526
27282930123
Per person starting at
$5,488
AmaDara standard stateroom
Select a Date
Cat.C
Tonle Deck French & Outside Balcony, 226 sq. ft.
AmaDara standard stateroom
Select a Date
Cat.B
Sadec, Saigon & Tonle Deck French & Outside Balcony, 226 sq. ft.
AmaDara standard stateroom
Select a Date
Cat.A
Saigon Deck French & Outside Balcony, 226 sq. ft.
AmaDara Suite Stateroom
Select a Date
Suite
Sadec Deck French & Outside Balcony, 334 sq. ft.
AmaDara luxury suite
Select a Date
Luxury Suite
Sadec Deck French & Outside Balcony, 452 sq. ft.

Notes

Single supplement is 50%, except for Suites which are 100%.
Included
  • 15 Breakfasts, 10 Lunches, 10 Dinners
  • 15 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Port Fees
  • Onboard Entertainment 
  • Bottled water replenished daily
  • Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land programs
  • Beverages: Unlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner.
  • Beverages: Unlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast
  • Personal headset for excursions. 
  • Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Gala Dinner
  • Knowledgeable guides
  • Internet and Wi-Fi access
  • Sip & Sail Daily Cocktail Hour with complimentary wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Passport and Applicable Visa Expenses
  • Laundry 

Map

Inquire

* By providing your phone number, you consent to receive direct phone calls or SMS messages from our Trip Planners to get the process started. We do not share your information with third-parties.
Change & customize to make it yours.
Travel Agents

We Love to Talk Travel

Call 1.800.344.6118
or
Chat Now
This was my first experience with Adventure Life - and I couldn't have been more pleased with the trip. The guides and local staff in both Buenos Aires and Uruguay were terrific - extremely helpful and accommodating. I really enjoyed meeting the friendly staff in Buenos Aires in person (I left my bags with them for the afternoon).
Karen Snider

Vietnam Travel Guide

Favorite Vietnam Vietnam All Trips

Top Vietnam Travel Destinations

Vietnam Trips by Departure Date

Top Experiences in Vietnam

Vietnam Trips by Duration

Vietnam Trips by Activity

More Reasons

Why Travel With Adventure Life

All News

Recognized By