AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES

Immerse yourself in the local culture and heritage of Vietnam and Cambodia while visiting rural villages unspoiled by tourism. Our included excursions in the region will offer you a chance to delve deeply into daily life with routines much different from your own, and to witness the time-honored methods of skilled artisans who create exquisite handicrafts and delicacies.

In Cai Be, visit a Vietnamese rice paper workshop and try your hand at making paper using the traditional method that has been used for centuries. Ride aboard an oxcart, an age-old mode of transportation, through a rural Cambodian village, an experience designed for travelers with an open mind and a spirit of adventure. Receive a special Buddhist blessing in the former Cambodian capital of Oudong while being enveloped in the tranquil beauty of its monastery. These are only a few of the many enriching experiences included on your Mekong River journey.

BUDDHIST BLESSING, OUDONG, CAMBODIA

EXCEPTIONAL LOCAL GUIDES

AmaWaterways carefully selects friendly local guides who are extremely knowledgeable about Vietnam and Cambodian history. Some of these guides had family directly impacted by the Khmer Rouge regime. Their personal stories and unique perspectives make our included excursions along the Mekong River deeply meaningful and are highlights of the experience for many of our guests. “Charms of the Mekong was truly exceptional! We think it was the local guides that made it so touching. All three guides taught us about resilience and forgiveness and moving forward. We don’t think we will ever forget being blessed at the Buddhist temple, being at Angkor Wat at sunrise, talking with a 13-year-old monk, or hearing from a survivor of Pol Pot’s prison.” – Linda O, past guest