Lively Ho Chi Minh City, once known as the “Pearl of the Orient,” offers a vibrant mix of old and new and provides the perfect start to your incredible journey through Vietnam and Cambodia. Cruise along the mighty Mekong, discovering a glimpse into another era; one where people still happily honor the timeless traditions passed down through the centuries from their ancestors. Throughout your trip, immerse yourself into the culture and heritage with visits to rural villages, historic pagodas and colorful markets. Be treated to a special blessing by monks in Buddhist monastery, and witness skilled artisans who create exquisite handicrafts and delicacies. Experience all this and more on this life-enriching cruise along the Mekong. Conclude your Mekong journey and indulge your inner adventurer in Siem Reap, exploring the grand temples of Angkor Archeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Two lively cities, Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, provide the perfect start and end to your incredible journey. Cruise along the Mekong, visiting rural villages, historic pagodas, local markets and a Buddhist monastery where you’ll witness a special blessing by monks. Indulge your inner adventurer in Siem Reap, exploring the grand temples of the UNESCO-designated Angkor Archeological Park, including Banteay Srei, Angkor Thom, the Terrace of the Elephants, the pyramid temple of Bayon, Ta Prohm—the vine-covered “jungle temple”—Angkor Wat and other key sites. Conclude your journey in Hanoi, Vietnam’s current capital, along with an overnight sojourn on board an elegantly appointed ship in the UNESCO-designated Ha Long Bay.
Lively Ho Chi Minh City, once known as the “Pearl of the Orient,” offers a vibrant mix of old and new and provides the perfect start to your incredible journey through Vietnam and Cambodia. Cruise along the mighty Mekong, discovering a glimpse into another era; one where people still happily honor the timeless traditions passed down through the centuries from their ancestors. Throughout your trip, immerse yourself into the culture and heritage with visits to rural villages, historic pagodas and colorful markets. Be treated to a special blessing by monks in Buddhist monastery, and witness skilled artisans who create exquisite handicrafts and delicacies. Experience all this and more on this life-enriching cruise along the Mekong.
Cruise along the mighty Mekong, discovering a glimpse into another era; one where people still happily honor the timeless traditions passed down through the centuries from their ancestors. Throughout your trip, immerse yourself into the culture and heritage with visits to rural villages, historic pagodas and colorful markets. Be treated to a special blessing by monks in Buddhist monastery, and witness skilled artisans who create exquisite handicrafts and delicacies. Experience all this and more on this life-enriching cruise along the Mekong. Conclude your Mekong journey and indulge your inner adventurer in Siem Reap, exploring the grand temples of Angkor Archeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Lively Ho Chi Minh City, once known as the “Pearl of the Orient,” offers a vibrant mix of old and new and provides the perfect start to your incredible journey through Vietnam and Cambodia. Cruise along the mighty Mekong, discovering a glimpse into another era; one where people still happily honor the timeless traditions passed down through the centuries from their ancestors. Throughout your trip, immerse yourself into the culture and heritage with visits to rural villages, historic pagodas and colorful markets. Be treated to a special blessing by monks in Buddhist monastery, and witness skilled artisans who create exquisite handicrafts and delicacies. Experience all this and more on this life-enriching cruise along the Mekong. Conclude your Mekong journey and indulge your inner adventurer in Siem Reap, exploring the grand temples of Angkor Archeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Charms of the Mekong (Smithsonian Journeys)
At A Glance
On these itineraries, you will enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours. We include a large variety of activities so that you can choose how you want to explore. No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder.
Day 1 | Ho Chi Minh City | Transfer to My Tho |
|
Transfer via motorcoach from Ho Chi Minh City to AmaDara at My Tho Port for your 7-night river cruise and then meet fellow travelers at a Welcome Dinner as the ship cruises to Cai Be. (L,D)
* All cruise only guests should meet us at Sofitel Saigon Plaza at 11:30am in Ho Chi Minh City on Embarkation day to join the transfer to the ship in My Tho Port. We recommend that you fly into Ho Chi Minh at least one day prior to embarkation; please inquire about important arrival arrangements prior to your cruise.
Day 2 | Cai Be | Local boat ride |
|
| | OR local workshops and active walking tour to historic Kiet House |
|
| Sa Dec | Local boat ride to Sa Dec |
|
| | Visit to local market and temple |
|
Take a local boat to Cai Be. You will 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 House followed by a visit to candy and rice paper workshops. Later in the day, journey to Sa Dec, a sprawling town on the Mekong Delta, where French writer Marguerite Duras spent part of her youth. You will visit the colorful market, Cao Dai Temple, home to the unique religion of Caodaism in Southern Vietnam. It is a fusion of Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and Confucianism. (B,L,D)
Day 3 | Tan Chau | Trishaw ride to craftsmen’s workshops |
|
| | OR Trishaw ride to craftmen’s workshops and active walking tour to Evergreen Island |
|
| | OR Tra Su Forest and Sanctuary* |
|
| Border Crossing | Border Crossing from Vietnam to Cambodia |
|
| | **You will need this information for your visa applications:
Exit Vietnam: Vinh Xuong Landport
Enter Cambodia: Phnom Penh |
|
Enjoy a visit to Tan Chau, a small Mekong River town 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, followed by an active walking tour to “Evergreen Island.” As a third alternative, explore the stunning Mekong Delta on a small group tour through Vietnam's Tra Su Forest and Sanctuary. This region thrives in 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. Glide by sampan through this diverse ecosystem that includes more than 70 species of birds, including the painted stork and oriental darter.* Later in the day, cruise from Vietnam to the Cambodian border en route to Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia. (B,L,D)
*Please Note: Tra Su Forest visit is capacity controlled.
Day 4 | Phnom Penh | Royal Palace and Central Market |
|
| | OR Specialized National Museum Tour - Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive |
|
| | OR Cambodian Specialties Tasting – Smithsonian Journeys
Exclusive |
|
| | Killing Fields and Genocide Museum excursion |
|
This morning, you will visit the Royal Palace and the spectacular Silver Pagoda. After, you also have the opportunity to shop for unique treasures at the bustling Central Market. Alternatively, you can choose to tour the National Museum which has an outstanding collection of Khmer crafts with an expert guide for an in-depth experience. Alternatively, savor a variety of Cambodian delicacies on a special tasting tour in Phnom Penh’s city center. Enjoy lunch on board before your excursion takes you to Cambodia’s infamous Killing Fields and the Khmer Rouge’s grim Tuol Sleng S21 detention center (Genocide Museum), where you may have the opportunity to speak with a Cambodian Civil War veteran. After returning to the ship, enjoy Khmer folk dancing performed by the local community in the Saigon Lounge. (B,L,D)
Day 5 | Oudong | Buddhist Blessing Ceremony |
|
| | OR Oudong Hilltop Active Walking tour |
|
Visit 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. (B,L,D)
Day 6 | Oknhatey Village | Visit Silk Village and local school |
|
In the morning, set sail for Oknhatey Village. Oknhatey is the “Silk Island,” located on the lush banks of the Mekong River and known for its rich tradition of silk AmaWaterways – Marketing Detailed Itinerary July 28, 2025 weaving. While here, you will visit a local elementary school and observe the traditional silk weaving, an art that has been preserved for centuries. Your cruise continues to sail to Angkor Ban. (B,L,D)
Day 7 | Angkor Ban | Walking tour |
|
| | OR Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei “Twin Mountains” visit |
|
Go on a walking tour of Angkor Ban, one of the few villages in Cambodia that was not destroyed under the Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s. Here 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 on-going of the local villagers. After visiting here, the ship sets sail for Kampong Cham, where you will go on an afternoon excursion to Wat Nokor, perhaps the most treasured monument within the ancient complex of Banteay Prey Nokor. Fusing the Old-World with the “new,” this centuries-old temple now boasts a contemporary pagoda within its walls inside which you will delight in the colorful depictions of Buddha’s life. Alternatively, 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 as the result of a competition between the men and women of an ancient Cambodian kingdom to resolve which gender would be responsible for wedding proposals. Cap the day off with a festive Farewell Dinner on board.
(B,L,D)
Day 8 | Kampong Cham | DISEMBARKATION |
|
| Siem Reap | Transfer to Siem Reap |
|
Your cruise concludes in Kampong Cham, where you disembark and motorcoach transfer to Siem Reap. (B)
*Guests booking cruise only will be transferred from the ship to Sofitel Angkor hotel in Siem Reap. We recommend that you schedule your onward flight to depart Siem Reap after 4:00pm today to avoid potential missed connections.
Day 1 | Ho Chi Minh City | Transfer to My Tho |
|
Transfer via motorcoach from Ho Chi Minh City to AmaDara at My Tho Port for your 7-night river cruise and then meet fellow travelers at a Welcome Dinner as the ship cruises to Cai Be. (L,D)
* All cruise only guests should meet us at Sofitel Saigon Plaza at 11:30am in Ho Chi Minh City on Embarkation day to join the transfer to the ship in My Tho Port. We recommend that you fly into Ho Chi Minh at least one day prior to embarkation; please inquire about important arrival arrangements prior to your cruise.
Day 2 | Cai Be | Local boat ride |
|
| | OR local workshops and active walking tour to historic Kiet House |
|
| Sa Dec | Local boat ride to Sa Dec |
|
| | Visit to local market and temple |
|
Take a local boat to Cai Be. You will 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 House followed by a visit to candy and rice paper workshops. Later in the day, journey to Sa Dec, a sprawling town on the Mekong Delta, where French writer Marguerite Duras spent part of her youth. You will visit the colorful market, Cao Dai Temple, home to the unique religion of Caodaism in Southern Vietnam. It is a fusion of Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and Confucianism. (B,L,D)
Day 3 | Tan Chau | Trishaw ride to craftsmen’s workshops |
|
| | OR Trishaw ride to craftmen’s workshops and active walking tour to Evergreen Island |
|
| | OR Tra Su Forest and Sanctuary* |
|
| Border Crossing | Border Crossing from Vietnam to Cambodia |
|
| | **You will need this information for your visa applications:
Exit Vietnam: Vinh Xuong Landport
Enter Cambodia: Phnom Penh |
|
Enjoy a visit to Tan Chau, a small Mekong River town 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, followed by an active walking tour to “Evergreen Island.” As a third alternative, explore the stunning Mekong Delta on a small group tour through Vietnam's Tra Su Forest and Sanctuary. This region thrives in 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. Glide by sampan through this diverse ecosystem that includes more than 70 species of birds, including the painted stork and oriental darter.* Later in the day, cruise from Vietnam to the Cambodian border en route to Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia. (B,L,D)
*Please Note: Tra Su Forest visit is capacity controlled.
Day 4 | Phnom Penh | Royal Palace and Central Market |
|
| | OR Specialized National Museum Tour - Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive |
|
| | OR Cambodian Specialties Tasting – Smithsonian Journeys
Exclusive |
|
| | Killing Fields and Genocide Museum excursion |
|
This morning, you will visit the Royal Palace and the spectacular Silver Pagoda. After, you also have the opportunity to shop for unique treasures at the bustling Central Market. Alternatively, you can choose to tour the National Museum which has an outstanding collection of Khmer crafts with an expert guide for an in-depth experience. Alternatively, savor a variety of Cambodian delicacies on a special tasting tour in Phnom Penh’s city center. Enjoy lunch on board before your excursion takes you to Cambodia’s infamous Killing Fields and the Khmer Rouge’s grim Tuol Sleng S21 detention center (Genocide Museum), where you may have the opportunity to speak with a Cambodian Civil War veteran. After returning to the ship, enjoy Khmer folk dancing performed by the local community in the Saigon Lounge. (B,L,D)
Day 5 | Oudong | Buddhist Blessing Ceremony |
|
| | OR Oudong Hilltop Active Walking tour |
|
Visit 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. (B,L,D)
Day 6 | Oknhatey Village | Visit Silk Village and local school |
|
In the morning, set sail for Oknhatey Village. Oknhatey is the “Silk Island,” located on the lush banks of the Mekong River and known for its rich tradition of silk AmaWaterways – Marketing Detailed Itinerary July 28, 2025 weaving. While here, you will visit a local elementary school and observe the traditional silk weaving, an art that has been preserved for centuries. Your cruise continues to sail to Angkor Ban. (B,L,D)
Day 7 | Angkor Ban | Walking tour |
|
| | OR Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei “Twin Mountains” visit |
|
Go on a walking tour of Angkor Ban, one of the few villages in Cambodia that was not destroyed under the Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s. Here 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 on-going of the local villagers. After visiting here, the ship sets sail for Kampong Cham, where you will go on an afternoon excursion to Wat Nokor, perhaps the most treasured monument within the ancient complex of Banteay Prey Nokor. Fusing the Old-World with the “new,” this centuries-old temple now boasts a contemporary pagoda within its walls inside which you will delight in the colorful depictions of Buddha’s life. Alternatively, 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 as the result of a competition between the men and women of an ancient Cambodian kingdom to resolve which gender would be responsible for wedding proposals. Cap the day off with a festive Farewell Dinner on board.
(B,L,D)
Day 8 | Kampong Cham | DISEMBARKATION |
|
| Siem Reap | Transfer to Siem Reap |
|
Your cruise concludes in Kampong Cham, where you disembark and motorcoach transfer to Siem Reap. (B)
*Guests booking cruise only will be transferred from the ship to Sofitel Angkor hotel in Siem Reap. We recommend that you schedule your onward flight to depart Siem Reap after 4:00pm today to avoid potential missed connections.
Day 1 | Ho Chi Minh City | Transfer to My Tho |
|
Transfer via motorcoach from Ho Chi Minh City to AmaDara at My Tho Port for your 7-night river cruise and then meet fellow travelers at a Welcome Dinner as the ship cruises to Cai Be. (L,D)
* All cruise only guests should meet us at Sofitel Saigon Plaza at 11:30am in Ho Chi Minh City on Embarkation day to join the transfer to the ship in My Tho Port. We recommend that you fly into Ho Chi Minh at least one day prior to embarkation; please inquire about important arrival arrangements prior to your cruise.
Day 2 | Cai Be | Local boat ride |
|
| | OR local workshops and active walking tour to historic Kiet House |
|
| Sa Dec | Local boat ride to Sa Dec |
|
| | Visit to local market and temple |
|
Take a local boat to Cai Be. You will 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 House followed by a visit to candy and rice paper workshops. Later in the day, journey to Sa Dec, a sprawling town on the Mekong Delta, where French writer Marguerite Duras spent part of her youth. You will visit the colorful market, Cao Dai Temple, home to the unique religion of Caodaism in Southern Vietnam. It is a fusion of Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and Confucianism. (B,L,D)
Day 3 | Tan Chau | Trishaw ride to craftsmen’s workshops |
|
| | OR Trishaw ride to craftmen’s workshops and active walking tour to Evergreen Island |
|
| | OR Tra Su Forest and Sanctuary* |
|
| Border Crossing | Border Crossing from Vietnam to Cambodia |
|
| | **You will need this information for your visa applications:
Exit Vietnam: Vinh Xuong Landport
Enter Cambodia: Phnom Penh |
|
Enjoy a visit to Tan Chau, a small Mekong River town 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, followed by an active walking tour to “Evergreen Island.” As a third alternative, explore the stunning Mekong Delta on a small group tour through Vietnam's Tra Su Forest and Sanctuary. This region thrives in 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. Glide by sampan through this diverse ecosystem that includes more than 70 species of birds, including the painted stork and oriental darter.* Later in the day, cruise from Vietnam to the Cambodian border en route to Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia. (B,L,D)
*Please Note: Tra Su Forest visit is capacity controlled.
Day 4 | Phnom Penh | Royal Palace and Central Market |
|
| | OR Specialized National Museum Tour - Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive |
|
| | OR Cambodian Specialties Tasting – Smithsonian Journeys
Exclusive |
|
| | Killing Fields and Genocide Museum excursion |
|
This morning, you will visit the Royal Palace and the spectacular Silver Pagoda. After, you also have the opportunity to shop for unique treasures at the bustling Central Market. Alternatively, you can choose to tour the National Museum which has an outstanding collection of Khmer crafts with an expert guide for an in-depth experience. Alternatively, savor a variety of Cambodian delicacies on a special tasting tour in Phnom Penh’s city center. Enjoy lunch on board before your excursion takes you to Cambodia’s infamous Killing Fields and the Khmer Rouge’s grim Tuol Sleng S21 detention center (Genocide Museum), where you may have the opportunity to speak with a Cambodian Civil War veteran. After returning to the ship, enjoy Khmer folk dancing performed by the local community in the Saigon Lounge. (B,L,D)
Day 5 | Oudong | Buddhist Blessing Ceremony |
|
| | OR Oudong Hilltop Active Walking tour |
|
Visit 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. (B,L,D)
Day 6 | Oknhatey Village | Visit Silk Village and local school |
|
In the morning, set sail for Oknhatey Village. Oknhatey is the “Silk Island,” located on the lush banks of the Mekong River and known for its rich tradition of silk AmaWaterways – Marketing Detailed Itinerary July 28, 2025 weaving. While here, you will visit a local elementary school and observe the traditional silk weaving, an art that has been preserved for centuries. Your cruise continues to sail to Angkor Ban. (B,L,D)
Day 7 | Angkor Ban | Walking tour |
|
| | OR Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei “Twin Mountains” visit |
|
Go on a walking tour of Angkor Ban, one of the few villages in Cambodia that was not destroyed under the Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s. Here 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 on-going of the local villagers. After visiting here, the ship sets sail for Kampong Cham, where you will go on an afternoon excursion to Wat Nokor, perhaps the most treasured monument within the ancient complex of Banteay Prey Nokor. Fusing the Old-World with the “new,” this centuries-old temple now boasts a contemporary pagoda within its walls inside which you will delight in the colorful depictions of Buddha’s life. Alternatively, 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 as the result of a competition between the men and women of an ancient Cambodian kingdom to resolve which gender would be responsible for wedding proposals. Cap the day off with a festive Farewell Dinner on board.
(B,L,D)
Day 8 | Kampong Cham | DISEMBARKATION |
|
| Siem Reap | Transfer to Siem Reap |
|
Your cruise concludes in Kampong Cham, where you disembark and motorcoach transfer to Siem Reap. (B)
*Guests booking cruise only will be transferred from the ship to Sofitel Angkor hotel in Siem Reap. We recommend that you schedule your onward flight to depart Siem Reap after 4:00pm today to avoid potential missed connections.
Day 1 | Ho Chi Minh City | Transfer to My Tho |
|
Transfer via motorcoach from Ho Chi Minh City to AmaDara at My Tho Port for your 7-night river cruise and then meet fellow travelers at a Welcome Dinner as the ship cruises to Cai Be. (L,D)
* All cruise only guests should meet us at Sofitel Saigon Plaza at 11:30am in Ho Chi Minh City on Embarkation day to join the transfer to the ship in My Tho Port. We recommend that you fly into Ho Chi Minh at least one day prior to embarkation; please inquire about important arrival arrangements prior to your cruise.
Day 2 | Cai Be | Local boat ride |
|
| | OR local workshops and active walking tour to historic Kiet House |
|
| Sa Dec | Local boat ride to Sa Dec |
|
| | Visit to local market and temple |
|
Take a local boat to Cai Be. You will 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 House followed by a visit to candy and rice paper workshops. Later in the day, journey to Sa Dec, a sprawling town on the Mekong Delta, where French writer Marguerite Duras spent part of her youth. You will visit the colorful market, Cao Dai Temple, home to the unique religion of Caodaism in Southern Vietnam. It is a fusion of Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and Confucianism. (B,L,D)
Day 3 | Tan Chau | Trishaw ride to craftsmen’s workshops |
|
| | OR Trishaw ride to craftmen’s workshops and active walking tour to Evergreen Island |
|
| | OR Tra Su Forest and Sanctuary* |
|
| Border Crossing | Border Crossing from Vietnam to Cambodia |
|
| | **You will need this information for your visa applications:
Exit Vietnam: Vinh Xuong Landport
Enter Cambodia: Phnom Penh |
|
Enjoy a visit to Tan Chau, a small Mekong River town 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, followed by an active walking tour to “Evergreen Island.” As a third alternative, explore the stunning Mekong Delta on a small group tour through Vietnam's Tra Su Forest and Sanctuary. This region thrives in 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. Glide by sampan through this diverse ecosystem that includes more than 70 species of birds, including the painted stork and oriental darter.* Later in the day, cruise from Vietnam to the Cambodian border en route to Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia. (B,L,D)
*Please Note: Tra Su Forest visit is capacity controlled.
Day 4 | Phnom Penh | Royal Palace and Central Market |
|
| | OR Specialized National Museum Tour - Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive |
|
| | OR Cambodian Specialties Tasting – Smithsonian Journeys
Exclusive |
|
| | Killing Fields and Genocide Museum excursion |
|
This morning, you will visit the Royal Palace and the spectacular Silver Pagoda. After, you also have the opportunity to shop for unique treasures at the bustling Central Market. Alternatively, you can choose to tour the National Museum which has an outstanding collection of Khmer crafts with an expert guide for an in-depth experience. Alternatively, savor a variety of Cambodian delicacies on a special tasting tour in Phnom Penh’s city center. Enjoy lunch on board before your excursion takes you to Cambodia’s infamous Killing Fields and the Khmer Rouge’s grim Tuol Sleng S21 detention center (Genocide Museum), where you may have the opportunity to speak with a Cambodian Civil War veteran. After returning to the ship, enjoy Khmer folk dancing performed by the local community in the Saigon Lounge. (B,L,D)
Day 5 | Oudong | Buddhist Blessing Ceremony |
|
| | OR Oudong Hilltop Active Walking tour |
|
Visit 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. (B,L,D)
Day 6 | Oknhatey Village | Visit Silk Village and local school |
|
In the morning, set sail for Oknhatey Village. Oknhatey is the “Silk Island,” located on the lush banks of the Mekong River and known for its rich tradition of silk AmaWaterways – Marketing Detailed Itinerary July 28, 2025 weaving. While here, you will visit a local elementary school and observe the traditional silk weaving, an art that has been preserved for centuries. Your cruise continues to sail to Angkor Ban. (B,L,D)
Day 7 | Angkor Ban | Walking tour |
|
| | OR Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei “Twin Mountains” visit |
|
Go on a walking tour of Angkor Ban, one of the few villages in Cambodia that was not destroyed under the Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s. Here 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 on-going of the local villagers. After visiting here, the ship sets sail for Kampong Cham, where you will go on an afternoon excursion to Wat Nokor, perhaps the most treasured monument within the ancient complex of Banteay Prey Nokor. Fusing the Old-World with the “new,” this centuries-old temple now boasts a contemporary pagoda within its walls inside which you will delight in the colorful depictions of Buddha’s life. Alternatively, 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 as the result of a competition between the men and women of an ancient Cambodian kingdom to resolve which gender would be responsible for wedding proposals. Cap the day off with a festive Farewell Dinner on board.
(B,L,D)
Day 8 | Kampong Cham | DISEMBARKATION |
|
| Siem Reap | Transfer to Siem Reap |
|
Your cruise concludes in Kampong Cham, where you disembark and motorcoach transfer to Siem Reap. (B)
*Guests booking cruise only will be transferred from the ship to Sofitel Angkor hotel in Siem Reap. We recommend that you schedule your onward flight to depart Siem Reap after 4:00pm today to avoid potential missed connections.
Day 1 | Ho Chi Minh City | Hotel check-in |
|
Ho Chi Minh City, still affectionately referred to by locals as Saigon, is Vietnam’s former capital. Once known as the “Paris of the Orient,” it is now an industrial, cultural and educational hub
Day 2 | Ho Chi Minh City | City tour |
|
| | OR National Museum of Saigon – Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive |
|
Always bustling, Ho Chi Minh City is a city of contrasts blending old and new, and east and west. In the morning, explore some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the former Presidential Palace, the Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral and the War Remnants Museum. Alternatively, explore the National Museum of Saigon on a specially arranged tour that showcases the diverse artifacts of Ho Chi Minh’s history. In the afternoon, visit Chu Chi, an immense underground network built during the Vietnam War. (B,L)
Day 3 | Ho Chi Minh City | Morning visit Ben Thanh Market |
|
In the morning, visit Ben Thanh Market—one of the oldest and most iconic structures in Ho Chi Minh City. Transfer via motorcoach from Ho Chi Minh City to AmaDara at My Tho Port for your river cruise and meet your fellow travelers at a Welcome Dinner as the ship cruises to Cai Be. (B,L,D)
Day 4 | Cai Be | Local boat ride |
|
| | OR local workshops and active walking tour to historic Kiet House |
|
| Sa Dec | Local boat ride to Sa Dec |
|
| | Visit to local market and temple |
|
Take a local boat to Cai Be. You will 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 House followed by a visit to candy and rice paper workshops. Later in the day, journey to Sa Dec, a sprawling town on the Mekong Delta, where French writer Marguerite Duras spent part of her youth. You will visit the colorful market, Cao Dai Temple, home to the unique religion of Caodaism in Southern Vietnam. It is a fusion of Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and Confucianism. (B,L,D)
Day 5 | Tan Chau | Trishaw ride to craftsmen’s workshops |
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| | OR Trishaw ride to craftmen’s workshops and active walking tour to Evergreen Island |
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| | OR Tra Su Forest and Sanctuary* |
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| Border Crossing | Border Crossing from Vietnam to Cambodia |
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| | **You will need this information for your visa applications:
Exit Vietnam: Vinh Xuong Landport
Enter Cambodia: Phnom Penh |
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Enjoy a visit to Tan Chau, a small Mekong River town 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, followed by an active walking tour to “Evergreen Island.” As a third alternative, explore the stunning Mekong Delta on a small group tour through Vietnam's Tra Su Forest and Sanctuary. This region thrives in 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. Glide by sampan through this diverse ecosystem that includes more than 70 species of birds, including the painted stork and oriental darter.* Later in the day, cruise from Vietnam to the Cambodian border en route to Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia. (B,L,D)
*Please Note: Tra Su Forest visit is capacity controlled.
Day 6 | Phnom Penh | Royal Palace and Central Market |
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| | OR Specialized National Museum Tour - Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive |
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| | OR Cambodian Specialties Tasting – Smithsonian Journeys
Exclusive |
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| | Killing Fields and Genocide Museum excursion |
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This morning, you will visit the Royal Palace and the spectacular Silver Pagoda. After, you also have the opportunity to shop for unique treasures at the bustling Central Market. Alternatively, you can choose to tour the National Museum which has an outstanding collection of Khmer crafts with an expert guide for an in-depth experience. Alternatively, savor a variety of Cambodian delicacies on a special tasting tour in Phnom Penh’s city center. Enjoy lunch on board before your excursion takes you to Cambodia’s infamous Killing Fields and the Khmer Rouge’s grim Tuol Sleng S21 detention center (Genocide Museum), where you may have the opportunity to speak with a Cambodian Civil War veteran. After returning to the ship, enjoy Khmer folk dancing performed by the local community in the Saigon Lounge. (B,L,D)
Day 7 | Oudong | Buddhist Blessing Ceremony |
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| | OR Oudong Hilltop Active Walking tour |
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Visit 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. (B,L,D)
Day 8 | Oknhatey Village | Visit Silk Village and local school |
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In the morning, set sail for Oknhatey Village. Oknhatey is the “Silk Island,” located on the lush banks of the Mekong River and known for its rich tradition of silk AmaWaterways – Marketing Detailed Itinerary July 28, 2025 weaving. While here, you will visit a local elementary school and observe the traditional silk weaving, an art that has been preserved for centuries. Your cruise continues to sail to Angkor Ban. (B,L,D)
Day 9 | Angkor Ban | Walking tour |
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| | OR Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei “Twin Mountains” visit |
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Go on a walking tour of Angkor Ban, one of the few villages in Cambodia that was not destroyed under the Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s. Here 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 on-going of the local villagers. After visiting here, the ship sets sail for Kampong Cham, where you will go on an afternoon excursion to Wat Nokor, perhaps the most treasured monument within the ancient complex of Banteay Prey Nokor. Fusing the Old-World with the “new,” this centuries-old temple now boasts a contemporary pagoda within its walls inside which you will delight in the colorful depictions of Buddha’s life. Alternatively, 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 as the result of a competition between the men and women of an ancient Cambodian kingdom to resolve which gender would be responsible for wedding proposals. Cap the day off with a festive Farewell Dinner on board.
(B,L,D)
Day 10 | Kampong Cham | DISEMBARKATION |
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| Siem Reap | Motorcoach transfer to Siem Reap |
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Disembark in Kampong Cham and transfer by motorcoach to Siem Reap, gateway to the Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former capital of the Khmer empire. You’ll also visit nearby Ta Prohm, known as the “Kingdom of the Trees,” for the way in which the temple stones have become intertwined with thick forest vegetation. (B,D)
Day 11 | Siem Reap | Angkor Wat |
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| | Angkor Museum – Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive
Chaw Srie – Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive |
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| | OR Beng Mealea – Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive |
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| | OR Floating Islands excursion – Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive |
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Begin your early morning starting tour to explore the temple complex at Angkor Wat, the most iconic of all Angkorian temples, built by King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century to honor the Hindu god, Vishnu. Visit Angkor Wat and see the color changes of the temple with the natural sunlight during this early morning tour. Next, you can explore the Angkor Museum, taking in the journey from the beginning of time to the height of Khmer civilization, and meet with the museum’s curator. In the afternoon, you can choose to visit the hilltop temple of Chaw Srei Vibol, a timeworn 11th-century temple encircled by vast moats, or the blue sandstone Beng Mealea, one of the largest Khmer-era temples in Cambodia, surrounded by dense jungle that adds to its sense of mystery and charm. Alternatively, enjoy a special tour of floating island villages, where you can meet the people who live there and see a glimpse of their daily life.** During the evening, be treated to a special “Apsara Dancing Show” at your hotel, featuring local Cambodian/Khmer folk dancers. (B,D)
**Availability based on water level
Day 12 | Siem Reap | Angkor Thom in the morning |
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After breakfast, you will have a guided sightseeing tour of Angkor Thom meaning “the great city” and the last capital of the Khmer Empire. This is home to Bayon Temple, best known for its gigantic smiling stone faces, as well as the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King. Later in the day, bid farewell to Siem Reap as you prepare for your return flight home. (B)
*We recommend that you schedule your onward flight to depart Siem Reap after 4:00pm today to avoid potential missed connections if you wish to join sightseeing tour to visit Angkor Thom in the morning.