Retrace history through Vietnam and Cambodia. Join a slow travel journey staying at heritage hotels from the Mekong Delta to Angkor Wat.
Featuring one of our heritage hotel series, this journey takes you through a curated selection of historic properties across Vietnam and Cambodia, offering a rare opportunity to retrace the footsteps of Francis Garnier, the 19th-century explorer who devoted his life to mapping the Mekong River. From the vibrant streets of Saigon to the floating markets of Can Tho, the emerald waterways of Tra Su Forest, and onward to Cambodia’s elegant capital and mystical Angkor temples, you will experience the Mekong just as Garnier once did: with curiosity, wonder, and a spirit of discovery.
Begin your adventure in Ho Chi Minh City, where layers of colonial architecture, modern energy, and river traditions set the tone for the journey ahead. Wander the historic heart of Saigon, sail along the river at sunset, and savour their first taste of Indochine elegance while staying at the iconic Majestic Hotel.
In the Mekong Delta, explore the famous Cai Rang Floating Market, meet local traders, and discover the cultural mosaic of Can Tho through its temples, street food, and stories of resilience. The route continues toward Chau Doc, passing through lush forest landscapes before crossing into Cambodia by speedboat, a scenic transition from one river culture to another.
In Phnom Penh, stay at the legendary Raffles Hotel Le Royal, explore the city’s heritage by cyclo, and visit both its royal landmarks and historical sites. From here, embark on an unforgettable cruise along the Mekong toward Siem Reap. Each day brings new encounters, from silk-weaving communities in Prek Bangkong to pottery villages, pre-Angkor temples, and sweeping lake vistas across the Tonle Sap.
The journey culminates in Siem Reap, with exclusive archaeologist-guided access to the Angkor temples. From the tree-entangled ruins of Ta Prohm to the golden hues of sunset over Angkor Wat, the experience is both profound and deeply memorable.
For those wishing to explore even further, Laos can be seamlessly added, offering an expanded view of the Mekong through the lens of history, culture, and slow travel.
To discover the Mekong in a new light and embrace the art of slow travel as you follow the trail of one of the river’s greatest explorers, please contact our team at sales.vietnam@khiri.com for details or bookings.