14 Days Mekong River: Vietnam, Cambodia & Laos Itinerary
Embark on a 14-day adventure along the Mekong River, exploring the vibrant cultures of Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. This budget-friendly trip takes you from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the tranquil temples of Luang Prabang, with stops in the Mekong Delta, Phnom Penh, and Siem Reap, offering a rich tapestry of experiences.
Duration
14 days
Budget
$700-1400
Best Time
November to February (dry season, cooler temperatures)
Activities
88
Daily Avg
$75/day
Cities
Ho Chi Minh City (1d), Mekong Delta (1d), Phnom Penh (2d), Can Tho (1d), Phnom Penh (2d), Siem Reap (1d), Phnom Penh (1d), Siem Reap (3d), Luang Prabang (2d)
Pace
Fast
This trip offers a captivating journey through Southeast Asia, tracing the iconic Mekong River and immersing yourself in the distinct cultures, histories, and natural beauty of Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. From bustling cities to serene temples and lush landscapes, this itinerary provides a balanced and unforgettable experience.
Your itinerary covers 7 of 12 must-have experiences
Cultural Immersion
Day 10: Watch Apsara dance in Siem Reap
Historical Exploration
Day 2: Ben Tre Exploration
River Cruises
Day 3: Dinner at the Riverside
Spiritual Encounters
Day 9: Visit Angkor Wat
Culinary Adventures
Day 2: Sample Pho in Ho Chi Minh City
Market Exploration
Day 4: Lunch at Central Market (Phsar Thmey)
Natural Wonders
Day 14: Kuang Si Falls
City Life
Day 2: Return to Ho Chi Minh City
Wildlife Encounters
e.g., Elephant sanctuaries near Siem Reap, Bird watching on Tonle Sap Lake
Sunrise/Sunset Views
Day 8: Sunset at Phnom Bakheng
Monk Interactions
Day 13: Alms giving ceremony in Luang Prabang
Local Transportation
Day 5: Noodle Factory Visit
The Mekong River region boasts a vibrant culinary scene influenced by fresh ingredients, fragrant herbs, and unique cooking techniques. From Vietnamese pho to Cambodian amok and Lao larb, the food reflects the diverse cultures and abundant resources of the area. Be prepared for a sensory explosion of flavors and textures!
Must-Try Dishes
A flavorful noodle soup with broth, herbs, and meat (usually beef or chicken). It's a Vietnamese breakfast staple and comfort food classic.
📍 Street food stalls, local restaurants, markets
A creamy coconut curry dish traditionally cooked in banana leaves, often with fish, chicken, or tofu. It's a national dish of Cambodia.
📍 Restaurants specializing in Khmer cuisine, tourist-friendly eateries
A minced meat salad seasoned with fish sauce, lime juice, herbs, and roasted rice powder. It's a flavorful and spicy Lao specialty.
📍 Local restaurants, street food stalls, markets
A Vietnamese baguette sandwich filled with various ingredients like pate, cold cuts, pickled vegetables, and chili peppers. It's a popular and affordable street food.
📍 Street food vendors, Banh Mi shops
Food Neighborhoods
Known for street food, Pho, and Banh Mi
Known for Khmer cuisine, BBQ, and street food
Known for Lao specialties, grilled meats, and street snacks
Known for a mix of Vietnamese and international cuisine
Vegetarian options are becoming more readily available, especially in tourist areas. Tofu is a common substitute for meat. Vegans should be cautious about fish sauce and shrimp paste, which are widely used. Halal food can be difficult to find outside of major cities. If you have allergies, learn how to say 'I am allergic to...' in the local language or carry a translation card.
Using chopsticks is common in Vietnam and Laos. In Cambodia, use a fork and spoon. It's polite to offer food to others before serving yourself. Avoid pointing with your chopsticks. Tipping is not always expected, but it's appreciated for good service.
Tet Nguyen Dan (Vietnamese New Year)
Late January/Early FebruaryMajor holiday with closures and increased travel costs.
Water Festival (Bon Om Touk)
NovemberCelebrated in Cambodia with boat races and festivities.
Boun Pi Mai (Lao New Year)
AprilCelebrated in Laos with water splashing and parades.
🛣️Interesting Detours & Side Trips
- 🚶Taxi from the airport to District 1$10
02:00 PM - Check-in and Rest
Check into pre-booked budget-friendly hostel/hotel and rest a bit after your travel.
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- 🚶Walk or take a short taxi ride.$2
03:00 PM - War Remnants Museum
Explore exhibits detailing the Vietnam War from a Vietnamese perspective.
Book on Klook - 🚶Walk or take a short taxi ride.$2
05:00 PM - Reunification Palace
Visit the former Presidential Palace, a symbol of the end of the Vietnam War.
Book on Klook - 🚶Walk from the Reunification Palace.$5
06:30 PM - Dinner at Ben Thanh Street Food Market
Enjoy a variety of affordable and delicious Vietnamese street food.
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- 🚶Walk from Ben Thanh Market.$3 (for a drink)
08:00 PM - Explore Bui Vien Walking Street
Experience the lively nightlife of Ho Chi Minh City.
District 1
Central location, close to attractions, restaurants, and nightlife.
📅 Best Time to Visit
November to February (dry season, cooler temperatures)
The weather is generally warm and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Humidity is lower compared to other times of the year. Expect clear skies and comfortable temperatures.
November to February is the dry season, offering the most pleasant weather for exploring the Mekong Delta and surrounding regions.
Tet (Vietnamese New Year) in late January/early February can cause closures and higher prices. Water Festival in Cambodia (usually November) is a major event.
Getting Around
Motorbikes dominate; growing ride-hailing adoption
Use Grab for safe, metered rides. Negotiate prices for cyclos before riding.
Travel
50-150 USDAccommodation
10-30 USDFood
10-20 USDActivities
100-300 USDOpt for overnight buses or trains for long distances to save on accommodation costs.
Stay in hostels or guesthouses for budget-friendly options.
Eat at local restaurants and street food stalls to experience authentic cuisine at affordable prices.
- Learn basic phrases in Vietnamese, Khmer, and Lao.
- Bargain respectfully when shopping at markets.
- Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft.
- Dress respectfully when visiting temples and religious sites.
- 1Lightweight clothing
- 2Comfortable walking shoes
- 3Sunscreen
- 4Insect repellent
- 5Universal adapter
Visas
Research and apply for visas for Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos well in advance (e-visas are often available for many nationalities).
International Flights
Book your flights into and out of the region several months ahead for better deals, especially during peak season.
Initial Accommodation
Secure your first few nights' lodging in your arrival city to avoid last-minute stress.
Mekong River Cruises/Tours
Popular multi-day cruises or specific tours (e.g., Ha Long Bay in Vietnam, Angkor Wat tours in Cambodia) can sell out, book 1-3 months in advance.
Travel Insurance
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
Vaccinations & Health Check
Consult your doctor 4-6 weeks before departure for recommended vaccinations and preventative medications.
eSIM/SIM Card
Consider purchasing an eSIM online before departure for immediate connectivity upon arrival, or plan to buy a physical SIM at the airport.
Internal Transportation (Key Segments)
For popular routes like overnight trains in Vietnam or specific long-distance buses between countries, booking a few weeks ahead can be wise.
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Viettel stores, airports, convenience stores
📍 Airalo app or website
📍 Smart stores, airports, convenience stores
📍 Online rental services, some airports
WiFi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants in tourist areas. However, the speed and reliability can vary. Public WiFi is less common and may not be secure.
Useful Apps
Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival for the best data rates. Download offline maps and translation packs before your trip. Be aware of roaming charges if you use your home country's SIM card. Check the WiFi security before connecting to public networks.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two flat parallel pins
Two round pins (Europlug)
220V
50Hz
Tipping Etiquette
5–10% at upscale restaurants; not expected at street food
Round up to the nearest 10,000 VND
20,000–50,000 VND per bag for porters
Tipping is not traditional but increasingly appreciated in tourist areas.
Safety & Travel Advisories
Exercise normal precautions. Be aware of petty theft, especially in crowded tourist areas. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
113
115
114
Limited English — ask hotel for help calling
Payments
Cash is king, especially outside major cities
Accepted at hotels, upscale restaurants, and malls
Limited; cash and card are more common
Carry Vietnamese dong in small denominations. USD accepted at some tourist spots.
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Trip Summary
How was this itinerary?
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to February. The weather is cooler and drier, making it more comfortable for exploring the region. This period avoids the heavy rains and high humidity of the wet season.
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