Journey from Saigon to Phnom Penh Through the Mekong Delta. Travel from Vietnam to Cambodia in a completely different way on this 3-day Mekong Eyes Cruise from Saigon to Phnom Penh. Instead of simply flying between the two cities, slow down and experience the waterways, villages and countryside of the Mekong Delta along the way. Your journey combines a boutique river cruise with local excursions and comfortable overland and river transfers. Explore the lush landscapes around Cai Be and Can Tho, discover local life along the Mekong, spend time in Chau Doc, and continue across the border to Phnom Penh. This itinerary is ideal for travelers who want to combine Vietnam and Cambodia while experiencing the Mekong Delta as part of the journey rather than as a short day trip.
Tour Highlights
- Cruise through the peaceful waterways of the Mekong Delta.
- Travel from Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) to Phnom Penh through Southern Vietnam and Cambodia.
- Explore rural villages, orchards, rice fields and traditional waterways.
- Experience local life away from the busy cities.
- Visit the Mekong Delta around Cai Be and Can Tho.
- Discover Chau Doc, an important gateway between Vietnam and Cambodia.
- Enjoy an overnight stay aboard a boutique Mekong river cruise.
- Cross the Vietnam–Cambodia border and continue to Phnom Penh.
- Combine this cruise easily with a longer Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary.
Why Choose This Mekong Eyes Journey?
Flying from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh is convenient, but it means missing one of the most fascinating regions between the two cities.
This 3-day journey turns the transfer into part of your holiday. Rather than spending your time at an airport, you'll travel through the Mekong Delta, observe everyday life along the river, explore rural communities and experience the changing landscapes of Southern Vietnam before continuing into Cambodia.
For travelers with enough time, this is a more immersive alternative to simply flying between Vietnam and Cambodia.
Saigon to Phnom Penh: Cruise or Flight?
|
Mekong Eyes Cruise |
Flight |
|
|---|---|---|
|
Travel experience |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐ |
|
Mekong Delta experience |
Yes |
No |
|
Rural villages |
Yes |
No |
|
River journey |
Yes |
No |
|
Travel time |
Longer |
Shorter |
|
Best for |
Experience & culture |
Convenience |
Which should you choose?
If your priority is simply getting from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh quickly, flying is more convenient. But if you have 3 days available and want to experience the Mekong Delta, the Mekong Eyes journey transforms the transfer itself into part of your holiday.
Best Time for This Cruise
December - April: Generally drier weather and comfortable conditions for exploring the Mekong Delta.
May - November: The countryside is particularly lush and green. Short tropical showers are possible, but the Mekong remains an attractive destination.
Our recommendation
December to April is the easiest period for a comfortable Vietnam - Cambodia journey, while the Mekong Delta can be visited throughout the year.
What to Pack
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sun protection
- Insect repellent
- Sunglasses and hat
- Light rain jacket
- Small day bag
- Camera
- Any medication you normally need
Why Book with Viet Exquisite Travel?
Travel the Mekong with Local Experts
- Local Vietnam Travel Specialists
- Mekong Delta Cruise Expertise
- Vietnam - Cambodia Itinerary Planning
- Private & Tailor-Made Tours
- English-Speaking Travel Support
- Carefully Selected Cruise Experiences
- Flexible Pre- & Post-Cruise Arrangements
- 24/7 Local Support
FAQs
1. Is the 3-day Mekong Eyes Cruise worth it?
Yes, especially if you're traveling between Vietnam and Cambodia. Instead of treating the journey from Saigon to Phnom Penh as a simple transfer, you get to experience the Mekong Delta, local communities and river landscapes along the way.
2. How many nights is the Mekong Eyes Saigon to Phnom Penh cruise?
The Saigon–Phnom Penh journey is offered as a 3-day/2-night experience, although the exact combination of cruise and hotel accommodation can vary depending on the operating itinerary and departure date.
3. Can I travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh by Mekong cruise?
Yes. Mekong Eyes offers journeys connecting Saigon with Phnom Penh through the Mekong Delta, making it possible to combine Vietnam and Cambodia in one continuous travel experience.
4. Is this cruise suitable for first-time visitors to Vietnam?
Yes. It's a great introduction to Southern Vietnam because you experience the Mekong Delta, local communities and river life while continuing naturally toward Cambodia.
5. Can I combine this cruise with a Vietnam tour?
Absolutely. You can start with Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An or Ho Chi Minh City and then continue by Mekong cruise to Phnom Penh.
6. Can I continue to Siem Reap after Phnom Penh?
Yes. Phnom Penh is an excellent connection point for continuing to Siem Reap and Angkor Wat. We can arrange the next part of your Cambodia itinerary as part of the same trip.
7. Is the Mekong Eyes cruise suitable for families?
Yes. Families can enjoy the slower pace and cultural experiences, although the suitability of a specific cabin and itinerary should be confirmed according to the children's ages.
8. What is the best time for a Mekong Delta cruise?
The Mekong Delta can be visited year-round. December to April generally offers drier weather, while May to November brings greener landscapes and occasional tropical rain.
Turn Your Journey from Vietnam to Cambodia into an Experience
Don't simply fly from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh. Take the scenic route through the Mekong Delta and experience rural Vietnam, river life and local culture along the way.
Our local travel specialists can arrange your Mekong Eyes Cruise, transfers, hotels and the rest of your Vietnam-Cambodia itinerary.
Get a Free Personalized Quote
SAI GON- CAI BE – CAN THO – CHAU DOC – PHNOM PENH (even dates)
DAY 1: SAI GON – CAI BE – CAN THO08.00-08:30: Pick-up at the hotel in Saigon. (district 1 and parts of district 3 (only included for those pax using the transfer service)11.30: Boarding of the cruise vessel and check-in.12.00: Panorama cruise and lunch on board around 13.0016.00: Guided land excursion – walk in orchards and small villages.17.30: Return to the boat for refreshment and to enjoy the sunset on the top deck.19.00: Dinner on board; night on board.DAY 2: CAN THO – CHAU DOC07.00: Morning cruise and morning tea break served on board.08.00: Check-out cabin. Excursion on a long sampan to Cai Rang floating market.11.00: Drive to Chau Doc by shuttle bus service (Lunch is included)15.30: Arrival in Chau Doc, check in hotel.Evening at free disposal.Night in hotel in Chau Doc.DAY 3: CHAU DOC – PHNOM PENH07.00: Departure of speed boat to Phnom Penh.~ 13.00-13.30: Arrival at Sisowath quay International Port Phnom Penh (arrival time may vary due to current and immigration formalities). Transfer to the hotel in Phnom Penh by shuttle bus.SAI GON-CAN THO – CAI BE – CHAU DOC – PHNOM PENH (odd dates)
DAY 1: SAI GON – CAN THO – CAI BE07.30-08:00: Pick-up at the hotel in Saigon. (district 1 and parts of district 3 (only included for those pax using the transfer service)11.30: Boarding of the cruise vessel and check-in.12.00: Panorama cruise and lunch on board around 13.0016.00: Guided land excursion – walk in orchards and small villages.17.30: Return to the boat for refreshment and to enjoy the sunset on the top deck.19.00: Dinner on board, night on board.
DAY 2: CAI BE – CHAU DOC07.00: Morning cruise and morning tea break served on board.08.00: Check out of cabin. Excursion on rowing sampan to explore small canals, enjoy "Đờn ca tài tử” (Folk Music) and visit home-made handicrafts family on Tan Phong islet. Bicycle ride on back roads or walk in a small village along the Mekong Canals.11.00: Drive to Chau Doc by shuttle bus service (Lunch is included).15.30: Arrival in Chau Doc, check in Victoria hotel.Evening at free disposal.Night in hotel in Chau Doc.
DAY 3: CHAU DOC – PHNOM PENH07.00: Departure of speed boat to Phnom Penh.~ 13.00-13.30: Arrival at Sisowath quay International Port Phnom Penh (arrival time may vary due to current and immigration formalities). Transfer to the hotel in Phnom Penh by shuttle bus.
PRICE: From 442 USD PER PERSON
INCLUSIONS
- Land transfer from/to Saigon by shuttle bus.
- Land transfer from/to Chau Doc by shuttle bus.
- Trip itinerary and routing as described in the itinerary
- English speaking tour guide on board.
- Accommodation in cosy double or twin bedded cabins.
- Guided walk and side trip on sampan as mentioned in the itinerary.
- Accommodation in double/twin room Victoria Hotel (Superior Room)
- Public speed boat from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh or vice versa.
- Meals as mentioned in the itinerary.
- Mineral water placed in your cabin on board and in hotel room.
- Entry fees, tax and service charge.
- Shuttle bus transfer to your hotel in Phnompenh.
- (Private transfer with Dragon Eyes)
EXCLUSIONS
- Beverages.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- All other services not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Dinner at Hotel in Chau Doc
