Expedition to
Vietnam and Cambodia

13 DAYS

20 PEOPLE

- EURO

Вікторія Власенко

КООРДИНАТОР ГРУПИ

More details

13 days

03.03 - 15.03.2027

Set off into the unexplored world of Vietnam, where mountains are riddled with caves and underground rivers, and feel like a true explorer! Deep in central Vietnam, among the jungles and rivers, a genuine underground kingdom of hundreds of caves was discovered only recently. The Paganel team will make its way across mountain rivers, along rocky peaks, to Hang En cave. Hidden in the heart of Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park, this cave is among the largest in the world and serves as the gateway to the legendary Sơn Đoòng cave. We will immerse ourselves in the amazing world of ancient cave formations shaped over millions of years and see the most extraordinary things hidden from us in this mysterious underground world.

Get ready to swim in an underground lake and walk through galleries admiring stalactites and stalagmites! Over two days, countless unforgettable impressions await you. You won't see a masterpiece of nature like this in any museum in the world! We will explore caves visited by scouting expeditions from BBC and National Geographic, as well as by our own Paganel Studio team. This is a real challenge, a thrilling journey into an unexplored underground world, and an experience that fully justifies every minute spent on the road!

In addition, we'll enjoy some rest and a cruise through Ha Long Bay, famous for its beauty — one of the most impressive natural wonders of Southeast Asia. We will sail among emerald waters and majestic rock peaks that, like petrified giants, have long guarded the sea passages into the beautiful land of the Viet people!

On top of that, delightful wonders await us in the Kingdom of Cambodia —

We will dive into the world of one of the most mysterious civilizations — the Khmer. It left behind countless artifacts and riddles that humanity still cannot answer.

When the majestic Khmer temples come into view, only one question arises: how? How, in the 12th century, using only primitive tools, could such grandiose architectural masterpieces as Angkor Wat have been built? The central tower of the temple complex is as tall as a 20-story building — 65 meters. Isn't that astonishing?! And what about Bayon temple, where 216 stone faces carved into 54 towers watch you from every side? This entire world, once lost deep in the wild jungle, feels utterly unreal…

And friends, these aren't just buildings — they are a kind of 4D book carved in stone: the temple walls are covered in bas-reliefs that vividly tell us about the life of an ancient civilization. And as you read it, serious doubts arise about how much we really know about this world.

Who knows, perhaps the secret of these unique messages will reveal itself to you. And there are many such structures here. We will explore all the most unique and popular temples of Angkor (the Grand Circuit, which includes about a dozen Khmer temples).

We will also walk through the mysterious ruins of Ta Prohm, where nature and architecture intertwine in a mesmerizing dance, and head to the Kulen mountain range, from where the divine Buddha took his final step into nirvana. Can you imagine the power this sacred place holds? 😉

Much more exclusive, one-of-a-kind, and inexplicable still awaits us on the planet Cambodia. Yes, planet! Because this isn't just another country or another culture — the Kingdom of Cambodia is an entire universe of its own!

The final chord of our journey will be a two-day rest on Koh Rong island. Here, snow-white beaches, crystal-clear turquoise water, tropical nature, and that very feeling of paradise await us — the kind that makes you want to stop time.

ITINERARY

Day 1
03.03.2027

Arrival in Vietnam's capital, Hanoi — the city “between two rivers”.
Transfer from the airport into the city. And — welcome to your cozy hotel, where you can enjoy well-deserved rest while immersing yourself in the capital's world of Vietnam! If the whole group gathers early enough, we'll stroll through evening Hanoi and spend an evening getting to know each other!

Day 2
04.03.2027

Today promises a day filled with beauty, inspiration, and vivid impressions. We'll set off on a cruise through legendary Ha Long Bay. Here you get the feeling of being in another world — the landscapes are that fantastical. Cliffs rising straight out of the sea recall the famous floating mountains from the film Avatar, creating the atmosphere of a real fairy tale.

More than 3,000 rocky islets are scattered across the waters of Ha Long Bay, giving it a truly one-of-a-kind atmosphere. On arrival we'll board the La Casta Cruise Star 5* cruise ship, and with an overnight stay on board we'll set off on a two-day journey to explore the waters of this mysterious bay.

The order in which we visit locations may change, but don't worry, we'll manage to see everything most interesting! On this day or the next we'll explore the largest stalactite cave in the bay.

Along the way we'll come across floating villages, fish markets, and much more that will let us see how life flows for the people who live here. In the evening, after dinner, we'll arrange a movie screening, maybe some squid fishing, or an evening party!

(Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner)

Day 3
05.03.2027

After breakfast we continue our journey through Ha Long Bay. You'll be able to swim at Titov Island, climb a hill to a viewpoint, go kayaking or take a boat trip, and explore unusual rocks and grottoes.

Farewell to the ship's crew and captain, disembarkation, transfer to Hanoi

On arrival in Hanoi we'll continue our acquaintance with this wonderful city with an exciting sightseeing walk, starting with a visit to Hoàn Kiếm Lake, Ba Dinh Square, and the historically significant One Pillar Pagoda and Turtle Tower (Tháp Rùa).

We'll also walk through the unique alley of a lively quarter, where twice a day a train passes just centimeters from the houses, and where every street and building is a genuine work of art. (Whether we'll actually see the train depends on the schedule)

This day promises to be full of impressions, natural beauty, and the spirit of Vietnam's ancient history. Before boarding the night train you'll have free time for dinner in Hanoi. Overnight travel in sleeper compartments to Dong Hoi (4 people per compartment) (Đồng Hới).

(Meals: breakfast)

Day 4
06.03.2027

Arrival in Dong Hoi, transfer to the trekking start point. Meeting the team of guides, porters, and cooks. After breakfast we take only the essentials and set off together on a two-day journey through hard-to-reach Vietnam.

The karst region of Phong Nha-Ke Bang has a unique ecosystem. It contains about 300 caves and grottoes with a total length of around 126 kilometers. More than 96% of Phong Nha-Ke Bang's territory is covered in evergreen tropical forest, most of which is primary forest.

More than 380 animal species live here, sixty-six of which are listed in Vietnam's Red Book of endangered species, along with nearly 260 butterfly species and more than 72 fish species, including endemics.

After arrival, a briefing, and receiving our gear, we'll begin our journey deep into Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Today's route will cover 11 kilometers. It will take us through dense jungle, mountain trails, and clear streams that we'll have to ford several times. After about an hour and a half of walking we'll arrive at the remote village of Ban Doong — a small ethnic-minority settlement located right in the heart of the reserve. Here we'll have lunch and a chance to see the life of the local residents, barely touched by modern civilization.

After the rest, the trek continues through jungle and riverbeds. A few hours later the grand entrance to Hang En cave will open up before us. Putting on protective helmets and headlamps, we'll climb a rocky section up to our camp, set right inside a huge underground cave. After settling into our tents, those who wish will have time to swim in the amazing turquoise lake next to camp, take in the scale of the cave, and get some impressive photos.

In the evening a hot dinner awaits us, and we'll spend the night in a tent camp right inside one of the largest caves on the planet.

(Meals: lunch, dinner)

Day 5
07.03.2027

The morning starts with breakfast at the camp inside the cave. Then we'll go explore the far chambers of Hang En, where you can see impressive stalactites and stalagmites, learn more about how the cave formed, and climb to viewpoints that open up breathtaking views of the camp and the giant underground spaces.

Continuing on through underground streams, we'll reach the opposite exit of the cave — the so-called “back door” of Hang En. Here a huge sandy chamber meets the green of the jungle, creating one of the most striking views of the entire route. The trek through the cave covers 3 km.

This will be a genuine underground adventure! After all, everyone should go below at least once in their life and see the amazing world of caves with their own eyes. It's mind-blowing, and it feels like being transported into another reality.

This world takes shape over millennia — drop by drop, water slowly but relentlessly carves the stone, creating fantastical shapes, chambers, and galleries. And underground, this process continues even today: rivers and lakes carve their way through the rock, filling the caves with motion, sound, and life.

After returning to camp and having lunch, we begin the return trip through the forest and river crossings, 11 km in all. The final challenge will be a climb up a steep forest trail to a height of about 450 meters. At the top, transport will be waiting to take us back to Phong Nha village. Arrival in Phong Nha is expected around 16:00-17:00. We'll board our bus and continue on — to the ancient imperial city of Hue!

(Meals: breakfast, lunch)

Day 6
08.03.2027

Today promises another packed and impressive day. After breakfast we'll head out on an excursion to the Imperial City of Hue. On the left bank of the Perfume River stands the majestic Citadel — a powerful fortification and one of the main symbols of the last imperial Nguyen dynasty.

This complex was conceived by Emperor Gia Long himself, the founder of the dynasty and the first of its thirteen rulers, and was built under his personal supervision for almost three decades — from 1803 to 1832.

The Citadel has an almost perfectly square shape with walls about 10 km in perimeter and covers a large area of 520 hectares. Inside the fortress there were not only palaces and temples but also public buildings, private homes, and eight villages that kept the imperial court running.

Next on our route is a visit to Thien Mu Pagoda — Hue's oldest Buddhist pagoda, founded in 1601. The pagoda, whose name translates as “Heavenly Lady,” is considered a spiritual symbol of the city. The excursion wraps up with a visit to the tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh.

Then we board a bus, which in an hour or two will take us to the city of Hoi An. Check-in at the hotel, followed by some free time.

Hoi An is often recognized as one of the most beautiful cities in the world thanks to its distinctive quarters and old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here stands an elegant arched bridge that once connected two quarters — Japanese and Chinese — and became a symbol of cultural unity. According to legend, a mythical dragon once slept beneath the bridge, its body stretching from India to Japan. By building the bridge, people “calmed” the monster, and in memory of this a small temple was erected on one side of it.

CNN even named Hoi An one of the most beautiful cities in Southeast Asia. Narrow streets lined with low, Eastern-style houses create a one-of-a-kind atmosphere from centuries past. The historic city center is closed to car traffic.

During the walk you'll visit a lively local market — the true center of everyday life in Hoi An. Here you can watch traditional bargaining, breathe in the aromas of fresh spices, and taste the local fruit and cuisine. Free time, return to the hotel, rest.

(Meals: breakfast)

Day 7
09.03.2027

After breakfast we'll head by bus to Da Nang airport. But on the way we'll manage to stop by the Marble Mountains. The Marble Mountains are a group of five limestone hills near Da Nang. They're known for their caves, tunnels, Buddhist pagodas and temples, as well as beautiful scenery. Each mountain is named after one of the five elements: metal, water, wood, fire, and earth.

However, only one of them, Thuy Son (Water Mountain), is the most famous tourist site. Within its depths and caves you can find many intricate Hindu temples, and its summit is covered with various pagodas and viewpoints.

Transfer to the airport, flight to Cambodia, the city of Siem Reap. On arrival we'll get our visas (for anyone who hasn't already), collect our luggage, and board the bus. The drive to the hotel will take about 40 minutes, where amid tropical flowers, traditional music, and a magical atmosphere, rest awaits us before a new, packed route around Angkor!

(Meals: breakfast)

Day 8
10.03.2027

Today we're in for a truly fascinating journey into the world of Angkor, lost in the jungle — the once-mighty center of the thriving Khmer empire. We'll witness the first rays of sunlight gilding the famous Angkor Wat — a sight beyond description. We have a lot to fit in today! Because we'll be doing the “Grand Circuit of Angkor.” That's not three locations but a full six, or even seven, of the most astonishing Khmer temples!

We'll begin, of course, with Angkor Wat. This magnificent structure, built in the 12th century, is one of the wonders of the world and the largest religious monument dedicated to the god Vishnu.

Here is what the French traveler and naturalist Henri Mouhot wrote in his book — he had gotten lost in the jungle while searching for rare beetles, spiders, butterflies, and other creatures, and stumbled by chance upon this astonishing temple complex: “I have never felt as happy as I do now, in this magnificent tropical setting. Even if I knew I had to die, I would never trade this life for the pleasures and comforts of the civilized world.” Thanks to this Frenchman, in 1861 Europe learned of the existence of the temple city of Angkor Wat.

The temple complex, covering more than 3,000 km² (a bit larger than Luxembourg), is built from sandstone. Individual blocks weigh up to 4 tons, but they were fitted so precisely that no mortar was needed. The central part of Angkor Wat is crowned by 5 towers, or prangs, the tallest of which symbolizes the mystical Mount Meru, home of the gods. According to Hindu texts, this mountain is more than 1 million km high. The central tower itself, however, is only 65 meters tall.

Next, the legendary Bayon temple (Prasat Bayon) will astonish us with its architectural atmosphere — it sits at the center of Angkor's ancient capital, Angkor Thom. On the temple walls you'll see numerous bas-reliefs depicting everyday life, wars, festivals, rituals, and scenes from the lives of the ancient Khmer.

But the most breathtaking thing about this temple is its faces. They adorn 54 towers. On each tower, a face is carved in stone on all four sides — 216 stone faces in total. Not all of them have survived, admittedly. But still, wherever you stand in the temple, several stone faces will be watching you at once. Who are they? What are they trying to say? Perhaps their secret will be revealed to you? 😉

Here you'll also be able to climb the stone mountain-temple of Baphuon and stroll through the grounds of the former royal palace, with its central temple of Phimeanakas, the Terrace of the Elephants, and the Terrace of the Leper King.

To close out our day of sightseeing, closer to sunset, we'll visit the ancient Buddhist monastery of Ta Prohm. Now heavily ruined, this temple was once richly decorated, filled with music, its halls hosting receptions and dances. However, when Angkor was seized by the Siamese in the 15th century, Ta Prohm, like all the other temples, was abandoned and swallowed up by giant fig and silk-cotton trees.

It was in exactly this state, this symbiosis of stone and nature, that the temple appeared before the Frenchman Henri. We'll also visit Preah Khan, where magnificent carvings and huge stone blocks have survived, creating an atmosphere of calm and grandeur; Ta Som, known for its ruined walls entwined with trees; and Pre Rup, which offers a breathtaking panoramic view over the surrounding jungle and temples. After all, the Grand Circuit of Angkor is 35 km of thrilling discoveries!

After returning to Siem Reap, we recommend getting a massage, then heading out to Pub Street at night for a mango margarita, some live music in a pub, or a dinner show featuring Apsara dance.
(Meals: breakfast included)

Day 9
11.03.2027

Today we'll travel to the small Kulen mountain range, considered a sacred place by the Khmer. According to legend, it was here that the divine Buddha took his final step into nirvana.

Along the way we'll visit another marvel of Khmer architecture — Beng Mealea temple — and walk along the mountain River of a Thousand Lingas. In Hinduism, the word “linga” symbolizes the god Shiva, specifically his procreative organ — a symbol of divine generative power.

Right in the riverbed, carved straight into the rocky floor, are 1,000 lingas. Flowing over them, the river gathers strength and, as it descends, irrigates the rice fields, making them fertile. It's also believed that the water of this river can cure infertility.

After that we'll climb to the mountain's peak, where an active 16th-century Buddhist monastery stands, home to an 8-meter carved silhouette of the “reclining” Buddha. We'll also visit caves where local ascetics spent their entire lives.

After that, in the middle of the sweltering heat, an unexpected gift awaits us — a swim in the cool waters of the two-tiered Kulen waterfall, known as a true place of power, where people have prayed to the god Shiva for strength, health, and the fulfillment of wishes since time immemorial!

Return to the hotel, a farewell dinner, and rest.

(Meals: breakfast included)

Day 10
12.03.2027

Today is a free day! So you can dedicate it to rest, or to new discoveries and excursions: go watch the sunrise before the crowds arrive, or stroll through the quiet of Angkor's majestic temples.

But I would highly recommend visiting some additional locations and excursions. For example, the ancient city of Koh Ker and the mysterious “pyramid of death.”

Or spend half a day at the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia — Tonlé Sap. It's also called the “Khmer Sea.” During the rainy season, from April to November, when the Tonlé Sap River flowing out of it reverses direction, the lake's area grows fivefold, reaching 10,000-16,000 km².

Because of this feature, people call the lake the heart of Cambodia. And indeed, its many rivers and canals act like a circulatory system, feeding most of the country's rice plantations. Warm water, shallow depths, plus the huge amount of humus washed in from the fields, create ideal conditions for fish to breed. It's no surprise that Tonlé Sap is one of the most productive freshwater fisheries in the world.

People living on the lake's shores have had to adapt to these conditions, building their homes on tall stilts or directly on rafts. As a result, whole settlements have sprung up on the lake — floating villages complete with their own schools, police stations, and even temples. In the evening we'll gather, grab our luggage, board the night bus, and head for the sea! Cambodia's Koh Rong island awaits us!
(Meals: breakfast included)

Day 11-12
13 - 14.03.2027

Now it's time to relax by the sea! In the morning we'll arrive at the port, where a boat or ferry will take our group to a cozy 4* hotel on Koh Rong island!

The island's name most likely comes from the Khmer word “rung” (cave, tunnel). However, some locals claim that “Rong” is the name of a historical figure. The name could also derive from the old Khmer word “rong,” meaning shelter. In that sense, the island's name can be translated as “Island of Refuge.”

The island covers about 78 km², and 43 of its 61 km of coastline are made up of beaches! Not far from Sok San Beach, on the island's west side, one season of the French version of the reality show “Survivor” was filmed!

So we'll finally be able to swim to our heart's content, relax, and get a tan!
(Meals: breakfast included)

Day 13
15.03.2027

Well, here we are — our journey of amazing adventures is coming to an end! Time to freshen up and have breakfast. Warm hugs, a touch of sadness, we say goodbye to each other until new stories and new adventures! Transfer to the ferry, then to Phnom Penh airport, and a flight home!

ATTENTION! The key thing is that your departure flight from Phnom Penh airport (Cambodia) should not be earlier than 15:00!

You can also extend your stay on the island. Or choose another option for continuing your now-independent trip through Cambodia, Laos, or Thailand.

WHY WITH PAGANEL?

We are unique

For many years, we have been traveling the world to our small planet's most remote and unusual places. We do not use the services of domestic travel agencies. The trips we invent and carry out are always unique and have their unique zest, charm, and adventurous spirit.

Creation

The first thing that interests us is creativity in everything. During the expeditions, we shoot a lot of videos, take pictures, write stories, draw pictures. If you are interested in a creative approach to life and travel, then WELCOME... we are very happy to meet you!

Interest

By joining our team, you join a kind of club family, which already consists of several hundred people who are interested in discovering the world with us.

Since most of the expenses for organizing a trip – air tickets and travel documents for other modes of transportation, accommodation, excursions, services of local companies and guides, etc. – are made by us in advance, long before the trip, the prepayment or payment for the trip is non-refundable in the event of cancellation.

Since most of the expenses for the organization of the trip are air tickets and travel documents for other types of transport, accommodation, excursions, services of local companies and guides, etc. are not refundable in case of your cancellation of the trip. We simply have no way to return it.

Please note that this itinerary is tentative. The weather always has the last word. The itinerary is designed to allow sufficient time at the end of the Expedition in case of any weather-related delays. If necessary, the captain can change the expedition route depending on external conditions!

Cherish Life! Love! Travel!

13 DAYS

20 PEOPLE

- EURO

Вікторія Власенко

13 days

03.03 - 15.03.2027

Євген Рафаловський

ROUTE

ITINERARY

Day 1
03.03.2027

Day 2
04.03.2027

Day 3
05.03.2027

Day 4
06.03.2027

Day 5
07.03.2027

Day 6
08.03.2027

Day 7
09.03.2027

Day 8
10.03.2027

Day 9
11.03.2027

Day 10
12.03.2027

Day 11-12
13 - 14.03.2027

Day 13
15.03.2027

WHY WITH PAGANEL?

We are unique

For many years, we have been traveling the world to our small planet's most remote and unusual places. We do not use the services of domestic travel agencies. The trips we invent and carry out are always unique and have their unique zest, charm, and adventurous spirit.

Creation

The first thing that interests us is creativity in everything. During the expeditions, we shoot a lot of videos, take pictures, write stories, draw pictures. If you are interested in a creative approach to life and travel, then WELCOME... we are very happy to meet you!

Interest

Cherish Life! Love! Travel!

13 DAYS

20 PEOPLE

- EURO

Вікторія Власенко

13 days

03.03 - 15.03.2027

Євген Рафаловський

ROUTE

ITINERARY

Day 1 03.03.2027

Day 2 04.03.2027

Day 3 05.03.2027

Day 4 06.03.2027

Day 5 07.03.2027

Day 6 08.03.2027

Day 7 09.03.2027

Day 8 10.03.2027

Day 9 11.03.2027

Day 10 12.03.2027

Day 11-12 13 - 14.03.2027

Day 13 15.03.2027

WHY WITH PAGANEL?

We are unique

For many years, we have been traveling the world to our small planet's most remote and unusual places. We do not use the services of domestic travel agencies. The trips we invent and carry out are always unique and have their unique zest, charm, and adventurous spirit.

Creation

The first thing that interests us is creativity in everything. During the expeditions, we shoot a lot of videos, take pictures, write stories, draw pictures. If you are interested in a creative approach to life and travel, then WELCOME... we are very happy to meet you!

Interest

Cherish Life! Love! Travel!

Day 1
03.03.2027

Day 2
04.03.2027

Day 3
05.03.2027

Day 4
06.03.2027

Day 5
07.03.2027

Day 6
08.03.2027

Day 7
09.03.2027

Day 8
10.03.2027

Day 9
11.03.2027

Day 10
12.03.2027

Day 11-12
13 - 14.03.2027

Day 13
15.03.2027