Today you fly via Hanoi to Vientiane, the capital of Laos.

You first land in Hanoi and fly on from there to Vientiane, the capital of Laos. On arrival, you are taken to your hotel, where you can rest and freshen up a little. Depending on your arrival time, an early check-in is a good idea so that you can move straight into your room (optional, bookable in advance). You then set off on your sightseeing tour of Vientiane. The Lao capital still bears the marks of French colonial rule but has retained a strong Asian identity. Among other things, you see the city’s oldest surviving temple, Wat Sisaket, whose cloister houses more than 2,000 Buddha images made of ceramic and silver. You can also look forward to the national shrine, the Pha That Luang stupa, and the royal temple of Wat Phra Keo. In the evening, you set out together once more to experience Vientiane’s evening atmosphere. In the centre, Patuxai awaits you, often called the “Arc de Triomphe of Laos” because of its strong resemblance to its French counterpart. It is a wonderful place at sunset and after dark, when the monument and the adjacent fountain are illuminated. 1 night in Vientiane. (Distance: approx. 10 km; driving time: approx. 30 min)

1 night · Double room · With breakfast Welcome to the Sabaidee@Lao Hotel! Centrally located in the heart of Vientiane, it offers easy access to fascinating sights and the picturesque Mekong. Numerous restaurants and shopping areas are close by. The hotel combines modern comfort with traditional Lao hospitality. The hotel restaurant serves local specialities as well as Thai, Chinese and Western dishes. Cool off in the outdoor pool, enjoy a cold drink at the bar or relax in the beautifully landscaped garden. The functionally furnished rooms have wooden furniture, air conditioning, cable TV and a private bathroom. An ideal base for exploring the Lao capital.

In the morning, you take the high-speed train (1st class) to the old royal city of Luang Prabang. Sit back and enjoy the picturesque landscape rushing past. You then reach charming Luang Prabang, rightly declared a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. After freshening up a little at the hotel, you explore Luang Prabang, also known as the “museum without walls”, on a city tour by tuk-tuk. Immerse yourself in the religious and cultural centre of Laos and visit, among others, the town’s most important and beautiful temples, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site: Wat Xieng Thong, Wat Visoun and Wat Aham. In one of these temples you can look forward to a blessing by a monk, who will shower you with good wishes. The tour ends at the National Museum in the former Royal Palace. In the evening, you take a walk and enjoy a refreshing drink with a lovely view of the river. To round off the day, you visit the Hmong night market, held daily from 5 pm to 10 pm. Together with your guide, you discover its many steaming food stalls and take in the still unfamiliar sights and smells. For dinner, simply choose whatever you fancy – your guide will be happy to recommend dishes you really should try, depending on your preferences! 2 nights in Luang Prabang. (B)

2 nights · Double room · With breakfast

Today it’s an early start so as not to miss the monks’ daily morning alms round. The alms giving is a unique tradition that reflects the Buddhist faith in Laos: every morning the monks, in their saffron robes, walk barefoot through the streets of the town with their alms bowls to receive their daily food from the faithful. If you wish, you too can give the monks alms in the form of food. Your guide will talk to you about it the evening before and will be happy to prepare the alms for you. After that, the day is devoted to the countryside around Luang Prabang. You start your nature programme with an absolute must – the Kuang Si Waterfalls. The day begins with a hike of about 1.5 hours through the surrounding landscape. The route passes sugar cane plantations and rice fields and gives you authentic insights into rural life in Laos. You should have a good basic level of fitness for the hike, as some sections on the way to the waterfalls follow fairly steep paths and switchbacks. Your reward is wonderful views and the chance to experience the falls away from the biggest crowds. If you would rather not join the hike, you can drive straight to the visitor area of the falls, where there are places to eat and drink, and meet the group later for a joint visit to the waterfalls. There you have the chance to cool off with a swim in the natural rock pools. Afterwards, you find a quiet spot and enjoy a picnic with fresh Asian sandwiches and local snacks in this magnificent setting. You then visit a Lao village and learn how the traditional rice spirit “Lao-Lao” is made. Back in Luang Prabang, the afternoon is at your disposal. Depending on your interests, you can optionally delve deeper into a topic that accompanies you throughout the journey – rice! At Living Land Farm, a small traditional rice farm, many “aha” moments await you: rice production and everything that goes with it is explained vividly and authentically – from ploughing with an ox and planting and transplanting the seedlings to threshing the plants to obtain the grains. You are welcome to lend a hand (optional, bookable locally; the price depends on the number of participants, approx. USD 60 per person for 4 people). (B/P) (Distance: approx. 70 km; driving time: approx. 2.5 hrs)

Today it’s time to say goodbye to Luang Prabang. A domestic flight takes you to Pakse, the capital of Champasak province. Near Pakse, you explore the fascinating temple complex of Wat Phou (UNESCO World Cultural Heritage), one of the best-preserved relics of the Khmer era. Wat Phou is often regarded as an architectural model for Angkor Wat in Cambodia and many other temples in the region. As it receives far fewer visitors than Angkor, however, you can soak up the magical atmosphere of this architecturally and religiously significant site at your leisure as you walk through the impressive grounds. You then continue south. Today’s destination is the inland delta, where the Mekong fans out into around four thousand islands. At your accommodation on the island, you can first relax before local delicacies are served on the hotel terrace in the evening – and of course there is fresh fish. 2 nights on the Mekong island of Don Khone. (B/D) (Distance: approx. 180 km; driving time: approx. 3.5–4 hrs)

2 nights · Double room · With breakfast Located right on the banks of the Mekong, this accommodation with local flair is the perfect base for exploring the island. Enjoy dinner in a special atmosphere at the riverside restaurant, which serves fresh regional specialities and international cuisine, and relax by the pool with Mekong views or on the terrace right by the water. The rooms are practically furnished and have a bathroom with shower, fridge and air conditioning.

Today you set off to explore Don Khone Island and first see one of the main branches of the remarkable Mekong falls, the Li Phi Falls. They are known for their aquamarine water and are a popular photo spot. Various paths let you admire the falls from several angles. You then visit some colonial relics of French rule in Laos: scattered colonial buildings and an old railway bridge. An old locomotive, kept as a memento at a small station, takes you back in time. Around midday, you return to the hotel for a break before more imposing waterfalls follow in the afternoon. They form a natural barrier in the Mekong and prevent the river from being navigable all the way from the sea to China. Particularly impressive is the Khone Phapheng waterfall, the largest in Southeast Asia by volume and one of the widest, with incredible rapids. Depending on the water level, huge masses of water from one of the Mekong’s branches plunge over cascades into the depths. The falls are located at the very southern tip of Laos in an area called Si Phan Don, which literally means “Four Thousand Islands”. Back at your accommodation, local delicacies are once again served on the hotel terrace – and of course there is fresh fish. Enjoy the sunset on the terrace and let yourself be spoiled with good food. (B/D) (Distance: approx. 40 km; driving time: approx. 1 hr)

Today you transfer to the airport in Pakse. It’s time to say goodbye to Laos as you fly on to Cambodia. In Siem Reap, the gateway to one of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia – the temple complexes of Angkor (UNESCO World Cultural Heritage) – your new guide welcomes you at the airport. The rest of the day is at your disposal. 3 nights in Siem Reap. (B) (Distance: approx. 185 km; driving time: approx. 3.5 hrs)

3 nights · Double room · With breakfast Located on the quiet outskirts of Siem Reap, Sakmut Boutique Hotel is an ideal base for exploring the world-famous temple complex of Angkor and the surrounding sights. The hotel impresses with modern architecture with traditional influences and a relaxed atmosphere amid tropical gardens. Between excursions, you will find plenty of ways to relax, including in the greenery. The rooms are designed for comfort and rest – just right after a day full of impressions.

After breakfast at the hotel, you set off by tuk-tuk to discover the fascinating temples of Angkor, among the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. The vast temple complex covers more than 200 km² and includes many different temples, such as the famous Angkor Wat from the first half of the 12th century. Among other things, you visit the South Gate of the royal city of Angkor Thom and the smiling faces of the Bayon temple. More than 200 faces carved from stone, some several metres high, look out in all directions and show just one aspect of Angkor Thom’s impressive architecture. Next, the Ta Prohm temple lies seemingly untouched and overgrown with roots and trees amid the lush jungle – so breathtakingly beautiful that it has served as a backdrop for Hollywood film productions! In the afternoon, you visit the most famous Khmer temple, Angkor Wat, and marvel at this important archaeological site. Before returning to Siem Reap, you visit another temple, where you take part in a Baci ceremony and are blessed with good wishes and prayers – a spiritual and inspiring experience. After a short break at the hotel, you take a walk around Siem Reap’s night market, where you can sample the varied street food. You end the eventful day with a drink on lively Pub Street. Afterwards, your tour guide accompanies you back to the hotel – or you can spend a little more time in the city’s pubs as you please. (B) (Distance: approx. 70 km; driving time: approx. 1.5–2 hrs)

You begin your second day in Angkor with a visit to the Roluos Group of temples. They are among the earliest temples of Angkor and date from the late 9th century. In the afternoon, you drive further out of town on a newly paved road through the village of Preah Dak to visit the well-preserved temple of Banteay Srei, whose delicate reliefs round off your impressions of the imposing complex. You also visit the temples of Banteay Samre and Pre Rup before returning to your hotel in Siem Reap. (B)

Today you say goodbye to Siem Reap and impressive Angkor Wat and first make a stop at Tonle Sap. It is the largest lake in Southeast Asia (UNESCO Biosphere Reserve) and one of the richest inland fishing waters in the world. For many people, the lake is the source of their livelihood – they live with it and from it. Many residents live on houseboats or in stilt houses on the shore and so adapt to the changing water level. Every year, a natural phenomenon unique in the world can be observed at Tonle Sap: from June, monsoon rains and meltwater from the Himalayas cause the lake to swell to four to five times its size. Once in the floating fishing village of Kompong Phluk, you take a short boat tour during which you experience the impressive lake from a different perspective and see the floating settlements. You learn about the life and daily routine of the local people in this fascinating UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. After a small lunch snack on the boat, you continue your journey towards the Cambodian capital. 1 night in Phnom Penh. (B/P) (Distance: approx. 350 km; driving time: approx. 6 hrs)

1 night · Double room · With breakfast In Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital, the modern and stylishly designed Patio Urban Hotel awaits you. It is located directly behind the Independence Monument, and several parks are not far away. From here you can reach all the important sights on foot.

In the morning, you set off on a stroll through Phnom Penh. Cambodia’s modern, up-and-coming capital is home to a wealth of sights. Once called the “Pearl of Southeast Asia”, it was considered one of the most beautiful cities in Indochina. You pass some of the sights of this lively city and then visit the Royal Palace with its magnificent Silver Pagoda. Before leaving Phnom Penh, a visit to the Killing Fields is on the programme – a memorial to the countless victims of the genocide under the Khmer Rouge regime led by Pol Pot. You then continue your journey to where the pepper grows. Here, the authentic rural life of Cambodia awaits you. On arrival in the Kep/Kampot region, you go straight to one of the well-known pepper farms, where you learn about the cultivation methods and processing of world-famous Kampot pepper. You gain an interesting insight into the art of growing pepper and have the opportunity to taste fresh pepper. Afterwards you can enjoy a relaxed evening at your hotel. 2 nights in Kampot. (B) (Distance: approx. 160 km; driving time: approx. 3.5 hrs)

2 nights · Double room · With breakfast Kampot Sweet Boutique is located in the east of Kampot; the centre of this quiet small town, still shaped by the French colonial era, is less than 10 minutes’ drive away. The hotel has a large outdoor pool, a fitness centre and an inviting garden with terrace. The restaurant serves tasty Western and Asian dishes. If you want to explore Kampot and its surroundings on your own, you can rent bicycles at the hotel (for a fee); afterwards, a cool drink at the bar or a lounger by the pool awaits. The air-conditioned rooms have a desk, kettle, fridge, safe and private bathroom.

In Kep, you begin the day with a visit to the local seafood market, where you discover fresh seafood and local specialities. Your guide leads you through the market, explains local features and lets you taste some of the specialities on offer. You then set off on a boat trip to the offshore island of Koh Tonsay, also known as Rabbit Island. After the crossing of just under 30 minutes, you have time on the island to relax, enjoy the idyllic beaches and swim in the clear water. A delicious seafood lunch is served in a local beach restaurant. In the afternoon, you return by boat and have the rest of the day at your disposal to relax at the hotel or explore the area on your own. (B/L) (Distance: approx. 15 km; driving time: approx. 30 min)

In the morning, you leave Kep behind and head for the Vietnamese border. After the border formalities, you reach the town of Ha Tien. You then continue to Tra Su, a fascinating ecotourism destination in the Mekong Delta known for its dense melaleuca forest, quiet waterways and diverse wildlife. Look forward to a boat trip through the forest, where you can observe the lush green landscape and numerous bird species and enjoy the tranquillity of nature. An authentic local lunch in the forest awaits you before you set off on the last stage of the day. In Vung Liem district in the Mekong Delta, you check into your lodge. Before dinner in the lodge restaurant, you can help with the preparations and watch the cooks at work – an authentic insight into Vietnamese cuisine. 2 nights near Vinh Long. (B/L/D) (Distance: approx. 300 km; driving time: approx. 7 hrs)

2 nights · Double room · With breakfast The Coco Riverside Lodge welcomes you in the heart of the Mekong Delta. Located right on the river in idyllic, quiet surroundings, it is the perfect place to relax. Enjoy the atmosphere and watch the fishing boats go by. The lodge restaurant serves local dishes. All bungalows have a private bathroom, air conditioning and a mosquito net. Each bungalow also has its own terrace overlooking the lush green countryside and the river.

Early in the morning, you visit a local market where all kinds of goods are traded – fruit, vegetables, fish or meat, there is everything your heart desires. You then take a sampan ride through the canals to another village and experience the quiet, simple life there. You visit the home of Mrs Toa, a “Heroic Mother” who hid communist fighters during the war. After the war, these men, who later became government officials, helped build a small memorial house for her. Over a snack with coconut juice and conversations with the family, you enjoy the atmosphere before returning to the lodge. After lunch at the lodge, the afternoon is at your disposal. Put your feet up and let the countless memories of your journey sink in against the impressive backdrop of the Mekong Delta. (B/L/D)

In the morning, you enjoy the relaxed Mekong atmosphere at your idyllically located lodge once more. At the appropriate time, you transfer to Saigon. On the way, you stop in Chinatown to visit Binh Tay Market Hall and the Chinese Thien Hau Temple. You also see the old church of St Francis Xavier and the “medicine street” before continuing to the centre. In the evening, you enjoy a sundowner in a trendy rooftop bar and feel the pulsating metropolis around you and at your feet, high above the rooftops of the city. 2 nights in Saigon. (B) (Distance: approx. 150 km; driving time: approx. 3 hrs)

2 nights · Double room · With breakfast The Happy Life Grand Hotel is centrally located in the heart of Saigon, just a few minutes’ walk from the city’s main sights. Besides its prime location, the hotel impresses with its modern and elegant architecture. Every room has a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this 4-star hotel, whose large outdoor pool, rooftop bar and fitness centre contribute to your well-being. Treat yourself to culinary delights at the in-house restaurant, which offers a selection of international dishes and local specialities. The hotel offers you the perfect balance between exploring and relaxing.

In the morning, experience the modern metropolis of Saigon waking up and watch the armies of mopeds and cyclos that are everywhere in Ho Chi Minh City, as Saigon is officially called. Worshippers pray in quiet backyards, young people meet in noodle restaurants and many locals relax with walks and exercise in one of the city’s many parks. Marvel at the city’s architectural diversity as you explore it past modern skyscrapers, colonial buildings and traditional temples. Sights such as the Reunification Palace, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the City Hall, the Opera House (all exterior visits) and the Post Office are on the programme. In between, you take a short break at one of your tour guide’s favourite cafés and try a local coffee speciality. Whether “egg coffee”, Hanoi’s speciality, the latest trendy drink “salted coffee” or the classic Vietnamese “drip coffee” with sweetened condensed milk – you are sure to broaden your coffee horizons here. The afternoon is at your disposal to explore the city further on your own. (B)

Today you head to the airport and fly to the former imperial city of Hue! After arriving around midday, you take a tour of the imperial city of Hue (UNESCO World Cultural Heritage) and experience the glorious past of the Nguyen dynasty – around 40% of all Vietnamese still bear this family name today. First, you visit an old mandarin house built in Hue’s traditional style. During a short tea break with snacks, you meet the hosts and hear many interesting stories about the culture and life of the people of Hue. You then visit the Citadel with the Imperial Palace (partly by electric cart), modelled on the Forbidden City in Beijing, and Thien Mu Pagoda. The famous seven-storey pagoda, one of Hue’s landmarks, stands on a small hill and is dedicated to the Celestial Lady. 1 night in Hue. (B) (Distance: approx. 40 km; driving time: approx. 2 hrs)

1 night · Double room · With breakfast The Cherish Hue Hotel is a charming, modern hotel in the heart of Hue! It is ideally located near the Perfume River and the famous Citadel and is the perfect base for exploring the historic city. In the spa you can treat yourself to massages and spa treatments, or work out in the fitness centre, which has all the equipment you need. There is also a pool to cool off in. The restaurant serves Vietnamese and international dishes, and in the wine bar you can round off the evening with a delicious drink. The Cherish Hue Hotel offers first-class comfort and warm hospitality. The standard rooms are stylish and cosy and offer the ideal retreat after an eventful day. They have a private bath or shower/WC.

In the morning, you visit the Tu Hieu Pagoda, secluded in the forest, and the tomb of Emperor Tu Duc. You then continue towards Hoi An. During an extended break at Lang Co Lagoon, you can stretch your legs on the beach and enjoy a lunch of fresh seafood. Through picturesque scenery you reach the Hai Van Pass, the natural border between northern and southern Vietnam, and visit some natural grottoes in the Marble Mountains, where Buddhist shrines have been built over the centuries. Finally, you reach enchanting Hoi An. Over the next few days, a balanced mix of charming programme and plenty of time to relax at your beach hotel awaits you – enjoy! 3 nights in a beach hotel near Hoi An. (B/L) (Distance: approx. 150 km; driving time: approx. 3.5 hrs)

3 nights · Double room · With breakfast The Wyndham Hoi An Royal Beachfront Resort & Villas was chosen because it is located right on the wide sandy beach and, thanks to the short drive to Hoi An’s Old Town, offers the perfect combination of beach and city experience. The hotel is not far from Hoi An’s historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site whose lanterns, old merchant houses and quiet lanes create a unique atmosphere. The resort combines modern architecture with spacious gardens and attentive service that makes your stay particularly pleasant. Two restaurants serve Vietnamese specialities and international dishes – with a view of either the sea or the inviting pool area. Several pools, a spa and a private stretch of beach provide relaxing moments and plenty of space to unwind. The invitingly furnished rooms offer a pleasant ambience and feature a bathroom with shower, a seating area and a flat-screen TV.

This morning, on a walking tour, you discover the diversity of the historic town of Hoi An (UNESCO World Cultural Heritage) and have the unique opportunity to gain an insight into the local craft of lantern making. In a lantern workshop, you learn how the colourful lanterns are made and can make your own lantern as a unique souvenir. Around midday, you take an excursion to a herb village outside the town that is known for its organic farming methods. Villages like this in the area are usually non-profit farming cooperatives whose members receive land free of charge as long as they farm it organically. Learn about the herbs native to the area, which also play an important role in medicine. Look forward to a freshly prepared lunch of local specialities, which you can help to prepare, followed by a relaxing herbal foot massage. The beach is not far from here, so you make a short detour and enjoy a refreshing coconut at a lovely beach café overlooking the sea. This is the life! Back in Hoi An, you can spend the evening entirely as you wish. For example, explore more of the Old Town when, at nightfall, countless colourful lanterns light up the narrow lanes, try the culinary delights of the local restaurants or simply relax at the hotel. (B/L)

Today you can spend the day just as you like. Treat yourself to a beach day, stroll along the long white sandy beaches or relax with a book by the inviting pool of your resort. Alternatively, you can explore more of Hoi An’s diversity on your own or join an optional excursion. (B)

After breakfast, you fly to the capital Hanoi and drive from there towards legendary Halong Bay. On the way, you stop in Yen Duc, regarded as one of the birthplaces of water puppetry. Here you enjoy a private performance showing the daily life of Vietnamese farmers: rice growing, buffalo herding, fishing, and singing and dancing to celebrate a rich harvest. After the show, there is time for a walk to discover rural life and craft workshops before continuing to Halong. 1 night in Halong. (B/L) (Distance: approx. 200 km; driving time: approx. 5 hrs)

1 night · Double room · With breakfast Your hotel, the “D’Lecia Ha Long”, is located in Halong’s popular Bai Chay district. Just a few minutes’ walk from the hotel you will find various hotspots of the city, such as the Cai Dam seafood market, the Sun World amusement park and picturesque Bai Chay Beach, which stands out above all for its turquoise water. Your hotel has everything you need for a perfect stay: in the D’Lusso Lounge you can enjoy a refreshing cocktail or a delicious coffee in a cosy, relaxed atmosphere. In the hotel’s “Chopsticks Restaurant”, you can enjoy various Vietnamese specialities prepared at live cooking stations. The rooms are cosily furnished and impress with beautiful wood tones. Room facilities include air conditioning, a smart TV and free Wi-Fi.

Early in the morning, you go on board a ship and it’s “cast off”! Glide through the legendary landscape of Halong Bay with its mighty islands and rock formations rising up to 330 metres into the sky. Relax during the cruise and enjoy the breathtaking sight of the unique limestone landscape from on board. Since 1994, the area with more than 1,000 rocks, grottoes and islands has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the way, the ship anchors so that you can visit individual caves (subject to change). During the cruise of just under 4 to 5 hours, lunch is also served on board. In the afternoon, the ship returns to Halong; after disembarking, you drive to Hanoi. On arrival, you visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national academy. In the late afternoon, you are taken to West Lake, where, like the people of Hanoi, you enjoy a refreshing drink on the street. Soak up the atmosphere and toast with the group to the experiences you have shared. 2 nights in Hanoi. (B/L) (Distance: approx. 215 km; driving time: approx. 4.5–5 hrs)

2 nights · Double room · With breakfast Hanoi Solis Hotel is an elegant hotel in the heart of the Old Quarter, just a few steps from Hoan Kiem Lake and the lively shopping streets – ideal for exploring the city’s cultural and historical treasures. The hotel restaurant serves delicious local and international dishes, and you can end the evening with a drink in the lounge. The rooftop pool invites you to take a refreshing dip, and in the spa you can treat yourself to a massage. The hotel combines traditional Vietnamese charm with modern comfort; the tastefully furnished standard rooms have a bath or shower/WC.

After breakfast, you explore Hanoi’s most important sights, including the house and mausoleum of the revolutionary Ho Chi Minh, still greatly revered in Vietnam (exterior view), and the unusual architecture of the One Pillar Pagoda. Over lunch together in a local restaurant, you try the Vietnamese classic pho, a hearty soup with rice noodles, beef and plenty of fresh herbs. Afterwards, a walk gives you an overview of the Old Quarter. You visit Hoan Kiem Lake with the beautiful Ngoc Son Temple and wander through the narrow, bustling lanes of the lively Old Quarter, most of which are named after the crafts or goods originally sold here – from fabrics and medicine to gravestones. On a cyclo ride, you let the atmosphere of the city wash over you. Along the way, you visit St Joseph’s Cathedral, a Catholic church in neo-Gothic style, and stroll across a local market full of exotic fruit and delicacies. Afterwards, you can explore the Old Quarter further or rest at the hotel. In the evening, a farewell dinner together in a local restaurant awaits, where you look back on your experiences. (B/L/D)

Even the most beautiful and longest journey has to end – today it’s time to say goodbye. At the appropriate time, you transfer to the airport and fly back home. (B) (Distance: approx. 30 km; driving time: approx. 1 hr) Day 25: After your tour through Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam, you land back in your home country today.