Overland Routes Vietnam Cambodia Laos Thailand: The Ultimate Indochina Adventure

Written by Tony Bùi – Founder & Travel Expert of Legend Travel Group since 2008, with over 20 years guiding more than 100,000 international travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide is based on firsthand experience and thousands of guest stories collected over 17 years of operating overland journeys.

=> Grand Indochina and Thailand Adventure 25-Day

=> Explore Southeast Asia: A Multi-Country Tour 22-Day

=> Legendary of Indochina - 20 Days

Crossing Indochina by road or river is the most authentic way to feel the heartbeat of Southeast Asia. Instead of flying over the rice paddies, misty mountains, and mighty Mekong, you travel through them – village by village, temple by temple, smile by smile. This is slow travel at its finest: deeper connections, unexpected discoveries, and memories that last a lifetime.

Legend Travel Group has perfected these overland routes since 2008, offering private, small-group, and custom journeys with comfortable 4×4 vehicles, modern vans, stylish boats, and hand-picked boutique hotels. Best of all? You only pay a 10% deposit – the balance is due just 30 days before departure. Travel with complete peace of mind.

1. The Classic Mekong Route (14–16 Days)

Ho Chi Minh City → Mekong Delta → Phnom Penh → Siem Reap → Bangkok
Highlights: Floating markets, Killing Fields, Angkor Wat at sunrise, and the Grand Palace
Perfect for first-time visitors wanting the greatest hits of Vietnam Travel and Cambodia Travel in one seamless trip.

2. The Northern Loop (12–15 Days)

Hanoi → Ha Long Bay → Luang Prabang → Vang Vieng → Vientiane → Chiang Mai
Highlights: Overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay, Kuang Si waterfalls, alms-giving ceremony, and Doi Suthep temple
Ideal for nature lovers and those seeking serene Laos Travel combined with northern Thailand Travel.

3. The Grand Indochina Traverse (21–28 Days)

Hanoi → Luang Prabang → Vientiane → Pakse → Siem Reap → Phnom Penh → Ho Chi Minh City → Mekong Delta → Bangkok
The ultimate bucket-list journey touching every UNESCO site and natural wonder across four countries.

4. The Hidden Gems Route (18–20 Days)

Ho Chi Minh City → Kampot & Kep (Cambodia) → 4000 Islands (Laos) → Pakse → Kratie → Mondulkiri → Ratanakiri → Ban Lung → Stung Treng → Luang Prabang
For adventurous travellers who want to escape the crowds and discover off-the-beaten-path Cambodia Tours and Laos Tours.

• Greet with a warm “xin chào” (Vietnam), “sua s’dei” (Cambodia), “sabaidee” (Laos), or “sawasdee” (Thailand) and a gentle smile.

• Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) when visiting temples – carry a lightweight scarf.

• Remove shoes before entering homes or certain sacred areas.

• Use both hands when giving or receiving items (including passports at immigration).

• Avoid touching anyone’s head and pointing feet at people or Buddha images.

• Cool & Dry Season (November – February): Perfect weather, ideal for all four countries.

• Green Season (May – October): Fewer crowds, lush landscapes, lower prices – especially rewarding in Laos Travel and northern Vietnam Travel.

1. Essence of Indochina – 14 Days

Ho Chi Minh City → Phnom Penh → Siem Reap → Bangkok
Private modern van, 4–12 travellers
From USD 1,890 per person – only 10% deposit

2. Mekong & Temples – 16 Days

Hanoi → Luang Prabang → Siem Reap → Bangkok
Private vehicle + domestic flights where needed
From USD 2,490 per person – only 10% deposit

3. Grand Indochina Discovery – 21 Days

Hanoi → Luang Prabang → Siem Reap → Phnom Penh → Ho Chi Minh City
The complete overland experience
From USD 3,690 per person – only 10% deposit

4. Hidden Indochina Adventure – 18 Days

Off-the-beaten-track journey with homestays and local experiences
From USD 3,190 per person – only 10% deposit

All tours include English-speaking guides, comfortable accommodation, daily breakfast, private transfers, and 24/7 support.

• Lightweight, quick-dry clothing & scarf for temples

• Comfortable walking shoes and flip-flops

• Reusable water bottle & eco-friendly toiletries

• Universal adapter & power bank

• Photocopies of passport & visas (plus digital backups)

• Small day-pack for border crossings

• Rain jacket (May–Oct) or light jacket (Nov–Feb)

Average Daily Cost (excluding international flights)

• Budget private tour: $90–$130 per person

• Mid-range private tour: $140–$220 per person

• Luxury private tour: $250–$400 per person

All Legend Travel Group tours include accommodation, private transport, guides, most meals, and entrance fees – with only 10% deposit required until 30 days before departure.

• Carry USD in small denominations for border fees and local purchases.

• Download offline maps (Maps.me) – mobile data can be patchy in rural Laos and Cambodia.

• Keep your passport handy but secure during border crossings.

• Stay hydrated – the tropical sun is stronger than it feels.

• Embrace slow travel – the journey is the destination.

• How many days do I need? 12 days minimum, 18–21 days recommended for the full experience.

• Is it safe to travel overland? Yes – millions travel these routes annually with no issues when using reputable operators.

• Do I need multiple visas? Yes, but Legend Travel Group handles all visa letters and guidance.

• Can I do it independently? Possible, but private tours with Legend Travel Group are safer, more comfortable, and surprisingly similar in price.

• When should I book? 3–12 months ahead for peak season (Nov–Feb); last-minute deals often available in green season.

Since 2008, Legend Travel Group has been the trusted choice for private and small-group overland journeys across Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand.

✓ Only 10% deposit – balance due 30 days before departure
✓ Private modern vehicles & experienced local guides
✓ 24/7 support from our Southeast Asia team
✓ Fully customizable itineraries

Visit https://www.legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp +84 825 862 222 to start planning your dream Indochina overland route today.

By Legend Travel Group – Crafting Unforgettable Southeast Asian Journeys Since 2008