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Simply Bangkok to Hanoi

Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam - Trip code QBV Discovery
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609Kg of CO²e
Average carbon footprint per person
Carbon Footprint
You deserve to know everything about your holiday, from what is included, what to expect and every kilogram of CO2 emitted on average per person along the way.

We've partnered with ecollective to measure the carbon footprint of this tour based on an average group size. Find out more about how we calculate this and why we think it's important here.

 

Discover the treasures of Southeast Asia on an unforgettable journey from Bangkok to Hanoi. Travel across Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, exploring ancient temples, lively markets, and poignant war sites. From vibrant capitals to tranquil villages, experience every side of this captivating region -connecting with locals and savoring its irresistible street food along the way.

Why we love this trip
  • Bangkok - Dive into the vibrant chaos of Thailand's capital, exploring golden temples, bustling markets, and world-famous street food
  • Siem Reap - Uncover the mystical jungle temples of Angkor, hidden for centuries and now one of the world's most iconic sites
  • Lan Ha Bay Cruise - through turquoise waters and past towering limestone cliffs in the unspoiled part of Halong Bay
  • Refreshed 2026 Itinerary - Enjoy a newly updated itinerary featuring better accommodation and exciting additions
  • Included meals

    Breakfast: 14

    Lunch: 1

  • Trip staff

    Explore Tour Leader

    Driver(s)

  • Transport

    Public Bus

    Taxi

    Train

  • i

    Accommodation

  • i

    Trip pace:

    Moderate

  • i

    Group Size:

    Trip maximum 14
    Explore Average 11

Itinerary

Trip information

Climate and country information

Cambodia

Climate

Cambodia is a hot and tropical country, being hottest in April and coolest in January (still high 20s). Although rainfall is at its maximum in October, Phnom Penh and Siem Reap receive very little rain compared to the coastal areas, and when it does rain it tends to be in the form of sporadic mid afternoon downpours. There is normally very little rain between December and March.

Time difference to GMT

+7

Plugs

2 Pin Round

Religion

Buddhism

Language

Khmer

Thailand

Climate

Generally hot with high humidity. There is some rainfall from April to September with most days being hot (around 33 Degrees) and a light breeze on the islands. If it does rain, it will be more of a heavy tropical downpour that lasts a few hours.

Time difference to GMT

+7

Plugs

2 Pin Round

Religion

Buddhism

Language

Thai

Vietnam

Climate

As Vietnam is a long, narrow country from north to south climate conditions vary considerably. The climate can be divided into three distinct patterns between the north, central and south regions. The climate in the north is generally humid and subtropical, although the winter months from November to March can be colder with temperatures from 10 - 15 degrees. Summer months, May to September can be quite hot with temperatures from 30 - 35 degrees. Meanwhile south Vietnam enjoys a tropical climate all year round, with little variation throughout the year (around 27 - 32 degrees), however May to November is the rainy season when short, heavy downpours are quite frequent. Central Vietnam lies somewhere in between. The coastal strip is usually dry and hotter from April to October while November to March is wetter and cooler. A light rain jacket and small umbrella are recommended year round.

Time difference to GMT

+7

Plugs

2 Pin Round

Religion

Mahayana Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism

Language

Vietnamese

Budgeting and packing

Optional activities

The following excursions and/or activities are usually available and may be arranged locally. Estimated costs are provided below for guidance only, are on a per person basis unless shown otherwise, and may depend on the number of participants. Prices quoted are correct as of the date these tour notes were originally issued but may change at any time due to currency fluctuations. Please note: These activities are booked and paid for locally and do not form part of your Explore holiday contract.



Bangkok:

Grand Palace and Reclining Buddha

Bike tour - Explore Bangkok's hidden streets, markets, and canals for an authentic local experience. FROM TBH 1250


Siem Reap:

Lotus Silk Farm Experience - Discover how lotus is transformed into silk by skilled artisans, then enjoy an optional peaceful boat ride through the lotus fields, where picking flowers and fruits symbolises renewal and empowerment. FROM US$5 PER PERSON

Phare Circus - Experience the electrifying PHARE, The Cambodian Circus, where skilled artists blend theatre, music, dance, and acrobatics to tell the story of Cambodian life while supporting a remarkable non-profit arts organisation. FROM US$28 PER PERSON

Apopo Visitor Centre - Visit the APOPO Visitor Centre in Siem Reap to see how specially trained rats detect landmines and tuberculosis, supporting life-saving humanitarian work in Cambodia and beyond. US$10 PER PERSON

Countryside Experience - Take a half-day trip to a real Cambodian village near Siem Reap to experience farm life, ride an ox cart, and enjoy a homemade lunch with the local families. US$75 PER PERSON

Banteay Srei Temple - Discover the 11th-century Banteay Srei with its intricate carvings, and the lesser-known Banteay Samre, showcasing a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist art. US$84


Phnom Penh:

Tuol Sleng and the Killing Fields - Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Khmer Rouge Killing Fields to confront Cambodia's tragic history under the Khmer Rouge. US$35 PER PERSON

Khmer Cooking Class - Learn to cook and savour traditional Khmer dishes, guided by an expert chef and featuring a visit to a local market. US$35 PER PERSON

Cycling tour of Koh Dach Traditional Weaving Village - Cycle through villages and past stilted houses on peaceful Koh Dach, or 'Silk Island', and discover its traditional silk-weaving communities. US$76 PER PERSON

Sunset Boat Cruise - Enjoy a 1-hour sunset cruise along the Mekong River, taking in riverside life, stunning scenery, and vibrant evening skies. FROM $5 PER PERSON

National Museum, Royal Palace and Wat Phnom - Explore Phnom Penh's Royal Palace, National Museum, and Wat Phnom to experience the city's stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural treasures. US$51 PER PERSON


Saigon:

Lune Production (A O show) - Performance blending acrobatics, dance, and live music to celebrate the charm and culture of rural Vietnam. US$32 to US$70 per person

Street Food tour - Embark on a vibrant night tour, sampling delicious local street food and soaking up the sights and atmosphere of a bustling market. US$25 per person


Hoi An:

Cooking Class - Half-day immersive experience in Hoi An with a market tour, river boat ride, herb garden visit, hands-on cooking class, and lunch. US$32 per person

Cycling tour of Kim Bong Village - Morning boat cruise to Kim Bong Village, exploring shipyards, temples, colonial houses, and local crafts by bike. US$20 PER PERSON

Hoi An basket boat and fishing life - Discover the daily life of Hoi An's fishing community with a river cruise along the Cua Dai, where you'll join local fishermen to learn net-casting, paddle a traditional bamboo basket boat through the tranquil Bay Mau waterways, and finish with a traditional fisherman's meal. US$55 PER PERSON

My Son Discovery - Explore My Son's UNESCO-listed jungle ruins, once the spiritual heart of the Cham Kingdom, with over 20 preserved monuments. US$45 PER PERSON
Hue:
Cooking Class - Discover Hue's culinary traditions with a market visit, hands-on cooking class in a charming garden home, and a delicious meal. US$50 PER PERSON
Home-hosted lunch - Experience authentic Vietnamese culture in Hue with a warm family visit, where you'll share stories, learn traditions, and enjoy a home-cooked meal together. US$15 PER PERSON


Hanoi:

Cyclo tour - A one-hour cyclo tour of Ha Noi's Old Quarter allows you to catch a glimpse of ancient Ha Noi and learn about traditional Vietnamese architecture. US$10 PER PERSON

Water Puppet Show - Experience the magic of Vietnam's iconic water puppet show, where traditional tales come to life on a shimmering stage of water. US$10 PER PERSON

Street Food tour - Savour Hanoi's vibrant street food scene on a guided tour through bustling markets, hidden eateries, and iconic stops - including the famous Bun Cha. US$20 PER PERSON


These excursions are usually arranged through our local agent. You may find similar trips offered by other local companies at a lower price, but please be aware that cheaper options may not include all costs (such as entrance fees) and may not meet the same safety or quality standards.

Clothing

Bring light, comfortable clothing that can be layered to suit changing temperatures. While the days are typically hot, evenings can feel cooler, so it's worth packing some warmer layers. Tops made from moisture-wicking fabrics will help keep you dry, and a fleece or pullover makes a good mid-layer. A light rain jacket or umbrella is useful year-round, particularly between May and October, when sudden showers are more common.

We recommend packing:
Breathable wind- and waterproof jacket
T-shirts and long-sleeved tops
Lightweight walking trousers (preferable to jeans)
Shorts
Sunhat
Swimwear and a towel
Mid-layer fleece or pullover
Comfortable shoes and sandals/trainers


Casual clothing works best for day-to-day wear, but it's advisable to have long sleeves and trousers for evenings to protect against insects. When visiting temples or sacred sites such as the Grand Palace in Bangkok, please dress modestly: shorts, vests, revealing clothing, and open-backed sandals are not permitted.

Luggage

20kg

Luggage: On tour

One main piece of luggage (max. 20kg) and a daypack.

Equipment

- Sunglasses and sun cream for strong UV protection
- Sunhat to guard against the tropical heat
- Small torch or headlamp (power cuts can be common in rural areas)
- A camera to capture your journey
- Personal toiletries and a basic first aid kit
- Insect repellent
- Small waterproof dry bag to keep valuables like your phone safe during boat trips or sudden downpours
- Tote bag for shopping and market visits
- Reusable water bottle - enjoy a 15% discount on a Water-to-Go bottle with your booking

Tipping

Explore leader
Tipping isn't compulsory, and we work hard to ensure that our leaders all receive a fair wage. You may however, want to recognise a leader that's done a great job or really added to your trip by giving them a tip. We're often asked about the recommended amount. It's a tricky one, and down to personal preference, but we'd recommend between £15 to £20 per person per week as a guideline.
Local crew
Although entirely voluntary, tipping is a recognized part of life in this region of the world. Some local staff will look to members of the group for personal recognition of particular services provided. In order to make things easier for you, the Tour Leaders may organise a group's tips kitty and if this is the case, they will account for it throughout the tour. Accordingly, you should allow US$ 40.

Cambodia

Food and drink

The costs for meals may vary depending upon location, type of restaurant and number of courses eaten and so the prices given are an average guide. Local restaurants located off the beaten track may be less expensive, whereas an upmarket restaurant located in the centre of a major city may charge more.


Lunch price
£8.00 - 10.00
Dinner price
£10.00 - 12.00
Beer price
£2.00
Water price
£0.60
Foreign Exchange
Local currency
Cambodian Riel.
Recommended Currency For Exchange
In Cambodia, US$ and Cambodian Riel are the most commonly used currencies (small denomination notes are easier to use).
Where To Exchange
Large towns.
ATM Availability
There are ATMs in most towns and cities.
Credit Card Acceptance
Credit cards are accepted in some large shops and restaurants in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

Thailand

Food and drink

The costs for meals may vary depending upon location, type of restaurant and number of courses eaten and so the prices given are an average guide. Local restaurants located off the beaten track may be less expensive, whereas an upmarket restaurant located in the centre of a major city may charge more.


Dinner price
£4.00 - 8.00
Beer price
£1.5
Foreign Exchange
Local currency
Thai Baht
Recommended Currency For Exchange
We recommend that you bring your money in GBP or US$.
Where To Exchange
Most major towns and on the islands - your Tour Leader will advise you on arrival.
ATM Availability
ATMs are available in Bangkok but are limited on the islands.
Credit Card Acceptance
Major stores and restaurants.

Vietnam

Food and drink

The costs for meals may vary depending upon location, type of restaurant and number of courses eaten and so the prices given are an average guide. Local restaurants located off the beaten track may be less expensive, whereas an upmarket restaurant located in the centre of a major city may charge more.


Dinner price
£9
Beer price
£2.00 - 4.00
Water price
£0.5
Foreign Exchange
Local currency
Dong.
Recommended Currency For Exchange
Carry your money in US$ Dollars cash. You can also take GBP but US$ are easier to exchange. (Dollar bills can be used in some hotels and shops; change is often given in local currency).
Where To Exchange
Most towns.
ATM Availability
There are ATMs virtually everywhere in Vietnam and in Cambodia, though we also recommend bringing cash.
Credit Card Acceptance
Credit card's are widely accepted throughout Vietnam
Transport, Accommodation, Food & Drink

Transport Information

Public Bus, Taxi, Train

Accommodation notes

During this tour, we stay in a mix of comfortable hotels, chosen not only for their location but also for their character and authenticity, which gives you a genuine sense of place. Rooms generally come with en-suite bathrooms, air-conditioning, and everything you need for a good night's rest.

One night will be spent on an overnight train, where we travel in soft-sleeper cabins with bunk beds. This is a practical and atmospheric way to journey across the country, offering a glimpse into local life while also reducing our environmental footprint. For extra comfort, we recommend bringing earplugs and a sleeping mask to help you rest more easily.

Please also note that in Asia, mattresses tend to be firmer than you may be used to at home.

Cambodia

Food and drink

Can you drink the water? 
The  water quality is poor and therefore it is recommended to avoid drinking tap water during your trip.

 

Thailand

Food and drink

Can you drink the water? 
The water quality is poor and therefore it is recommended to avoid drinking tap water during your trip. 

 

Vietnam

Food and drink

Can you drink the water? 
The water quality is poor and therefore it is recommended to avoid drinking tap water during your trip. 

 

Essential Information

Government Travel Safety Advice

We strongly recommend that you check your government's travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination's safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs. Relevant government website links for UK, US, Canadian, Australian and New Zealand citizens are available on our Travel Safety page.

If you'd like some inital information on country-specific entry requirements, such as visas or any health declaration forms, please refer to our Entry Requirements page.  The services and information on this page are provided by a third party, and so we will still recommend that you cross check this against your government website for the latest advice.
 

Under 18 immigration guidance

Please note that some countries require proof of parental consent when travelling overseas with under 18s. Please check requirements with the relevant embassy or consular office well in advance of travel if this applies to your party.

Price Guarantee

Once your booking has been confirmed we guarantee the price will not increase, whatever the circumstances. However, please note that if you voluntarily make any changes to your booking including changing your trip or departure date, any additional costs or charges incurred will not be covered. Before booking please ensure you have read our important tour pricing information.Booking Conditions
 

Visa and Passport Information


VIETNAM: British passport holders can visit Vietnam for up to 45 days without a visa. A visa will be required if you wish to re-enter within 30 days of your departure.

Visas are required for any other nationalities including the Republic of Ireland, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand and can be obtained in the form of an eVisas via: https://evisa.gov.vn

We strongly recommend applying for the online visa at least 6 weeks before departure, making sure all the information entered is exactly as per your passport. You won't be able to enter Vietnam without a valid visa if you do not hold a British Passport.

CAMBODIA: A single visa is required by UK, New Zealand, Australian, USA & Canadian citizens. We would recommend paying for the visa on arrival but alternatively, you can also obtain it online prior to arrival.

All arrivals into Cambodia will also be required to complete the e-immigration arrival card prior to proceeding to the immigration counter upon arrival. No paper immigration documents will be accepted. The registration needs to be completed within 7 days of arrival via the official app or website www.arrival.gov.kh
At present, the E-immigration arrival card process is applicable to travellers who arrive by flights into Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville airports. Those entering Cambodia by land crossing or boat will still use the traditional paper-based immigration forms at this time. Please don't forget to bring US$ to pay for the visa at the border.

THAILAND: Visas are not required by UK, Australian, New Zealand, US and Canadian citizens for a stay of less than 30 days. Other nationalities should consult their local embassy or consular office.

Starting May 2025, all non-Thai nationals entering Thailand by air, land, or sea must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online before arrival. You should submit your arrival card information 3 days in advance before arriving in Thailand, including the date of arrival here https://tdac.immigration.go.th

Please note that it is a pre-requisite for entry into Vietnam, Thailand and Cambodia that your passport is valid for a minimum of 6 months from your date of entry.


If you do require assistance in obtaining a visa then you may be able to apply through Explore's recommended visa service in the UK, Travcour. See www.travcour.com to download the relevant visa application for your trip, if applicable (UK citizens only), along with details of how to apply for your visa through Travcour. The Team at Travcour will be happy to answer specific questions relating to visa applications, please call them directly on 0208 5431846.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, with the correct validity for your chosen destination.
 

Booking conditions

Before booking your Explore trip, please ensure that you read both our Essential Information and Booking Conditions.
 

Minimum age restrictions

For our group tours, the minimum age is 16. The minimum age on Family trips varies between 7 and 11 - please check the 'Family information' section of the trip page for more information. 


Your safety and enjoyment on tour

We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable holiday, so we ask you to confirm when booking this trip that you are fit and able to fully participate in all elements of the itinerary. If you have any concerns about your fitness or ability to complete any of the activities, please get in touch with our Customer Relations team at cr@explore.co.uk as soon as possible. Our tour leaders are trained and experienced in managing differing abilities within a group, but if they have concerns about a group member’s ability to safely participate in any element of the itinerary or believe someone’s presence could affect the safety or enjoyment of the holiday for others, in accordance with our Booking Conditions our tour leaders have the authority to ask an individual to miss an activity or activities. This decision would never be taken lightly, but on the rare occasions our tour leaders ask someone to sit out part of the tour, refunds will not be offered and individuals may be liable for additional costs incurred. 
 

Your Tour Leader

All tours aside from extensions, Galapagos cruises and polar expeditions will be led by one of our experienced Tour Leaders. We believe that our Tour Leaders are the key to the success of our tours; they are local experts who are bursting with first-hand knowledge which they love to share, and their unique insights will bring the destination to life. Your Tour Leader will be on hand throughout your tour to make sure arrangements run smoothly, to organise all the local logistics and to keep you safe. Your Tour Leader should be your first point of contact if you encounter any difficulties or disappointments in country – please raise any concerns, however small, with your Tour Leader as they are best placed to assist you.

Transfers

Find out more about Trip Transfer Terms and Conditions before you book.

Booking a land only package with Explore

Customers who have chosen to book on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements of our tour, please ensure that you have checked your tour specific ‘Joining Instructions’ prior to booking your own travel arrangements. Your joining instructions can be found below in the dates and prices information. 

You may also be eligible for the Free Explore Transfer.


Joining Tour Abroad

Customers booked on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements will receive a Free Transfer, provided you arrive and depart on the tour only itinerary start and end dates. The complimentary transfers will be arranged from the Explore designated airport or train station to your trips joining point, and then back from the ending point to the designated airport or train station. Generally the airport or station that Explore have selected will be the one that is closest to the town or city where the trip starts, or the one nearest to the joining point. It will be either an airport or train station but not both.

The exception to this rule is customers who are booked on a tour where the joining and ending point is at the designated airport or train station.  

Free transfers are not available for Polar customers.

If you are not eligible for the Free Transfer then you will need to make your own way through to the joining and ending point. On a majority of our tours Explore will be able to provide a private transfer at an additional cost. Please ask for a quote at the time of booking.  

For more information regarding the Explore Free Transfer click here

Insurance

It is a condition of booking with Explore that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully cover you for medical expenses and emergency repatriation to your home country. Please ensure your policy includes medical emergency helicopter evacuation in the event of illness or injury and covers the entire duration of your holiday. If you are trekking at altitude please ensure that there is no upper altitude limit which may limit or exclude cover for your trip. The cost of many of our Polar Voyages will exceed the capped amount covered by standard insurance premiums and you will be required to pay an additional premium to cover the full value of your trip. Please ensure that you are covered for the full amount of your holiday cost, as insufficient cover could invalidate a claim under the policy. Medical and repatriation insurance cover is not mandatory for UK residents who are travelling on trips within the United Kingdom.
Read more information about what travel insurance is required.

Flight information

Explore can arrange your flights for you, to make joining and leaving our trips easy. Read more about them here.


Flight Information

You are able to book this tour on a 'land only' basis or as a ‘flight inclusive’ package. Your flight inclusive package will be fully protected by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) ATOL protection scheme.

 

Booking a flight inclusive package with Explore

We have a good selection of flights not only from London but from many regional airports around the UK allowing us to compare fares between scheduled carriers as well as low cost and charter airlines. Our dedicated flights team will match the best flight options to your arrival and departure airport.

On our website we display the price of the tour only. Please call us or select the flight option during the online checkout to receive a quote for a flight inclusive package. To avoid paying supplements or to secure your preferred flight option, we recommend booking as early as possible, especially for peak travel dates.

Cambodia

Vaccinations

Nothing compulsory, but we recommend protection against malaria, infectious hepatitis, tetanus, typhoid, diphtheria and polio. Consult your GP regarding tablets advised for malaria. Though not compulsory, travellers may wish to immunise themselves against japanese encephalitis. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by on the NaTHNaC website and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.

Thailand

Vaccinations

Nothing compulsory, we recommend protection against malaria, typhoid, tetanus, diphtheria, polio and infectious hepatitis. Although not compulsory, travellers may also wish to immunise themselves against Japanese encephalitis. Consult your travel clinic for latest advice on Dengue, Malaria and Zika Virus. Please take preventative measures to avoid mosquito bites - these include mosquito repellent as well as long trousers and long sleeve shirts to cover up when necessary. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by on the NaTHNaC website and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.

Vietnam

Vaccinations

Nothing compulsory, we recommend protection against malaria, typhoid, tetanus, diphtheria, polio and hepatitis A. Consult your travel clinic for latest advice on Malaria and Zika Virus. Although not compulsory travellers may also wish to immunise themselves against Japanese encephalitis. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by on the NaTHNaC website and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.

Discovery information
Award Winning Explore Leaders
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Price Guarantee Promise
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Airport Transfers
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