Indochina Backpack Extended: Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand




Itinerary
Ready to backpack Indochina without ever feeling alone? This 23-day hostel adventure takes you from the lanterns of Hanoi to the temples of Angkor Wat and the rooftops of Bangkok. You’ll share a dorm with new friends, not strangers, and travel with a dedicated WeRoad Group Leader who’s there for the group 24/7 – from the first street-food dinner to the last tuk-tuk ride.
We’ll cruise through the karsts of Ha Long Bay, row past limestone cliffs in Ninh Binh, explore caves in central Vietnam, and cross into Cambodia for powerful days in Phnom Penh and a day you’ll never forget at Angkor Wat. The journey ends with three nights in Bangkok, mixing golden temples with sky-bar sunsets and night markets.
This trip is ideal for solo travellers who want beauty, adventure, and security: shared rooms in carefully selected hostels, a trusted Group Leade. You pack the backpack – we’ll bring the friends and take care of the rest.


We've arrived, Vietnam!
1 night: Hanoi
Welcome to Hanoi
We meet in Hanoi and head straight into the energy of the Old Quarter. After check-in, the Group Leader gathers the group for a short welcome meeting. In the evening, our welcome dinner is the first real bonding moment, with shared plates and stories from back home. If the group is up for it, we’ll use the Money Pot for the famous water puppet show, a gentle, cultural way to ease into Vietnam before hitting the road.

Ha Long Bay Day Trip
1 night: Hanoi
Wow moment!
We wake up early, grab hostel breakfast, and head out of the city towards Ha Long Bay. As the skyline fades, limestone karsts appear, and the day becomes all about nature. On board, we tuck into a fresh lunch while our boat snakes between islands and inlets. There’s plenty of time for photos, chats on deck, and maybe a quick swim or cave stop depending on the route. Relax and enjoy the views.

Hanoi at Your Pace
1 night: Hanoi
Old Quarter & Rooftop Sunset
Hanoi has a different rhythm when you’re not rushing. After breakfast, we go on an optional walk past colonial buildings, street markets, and tiny alleyways, or take time for ourselves. We can visit cultural stops, like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum area or the Women’s Museum. In the evening, a relaxed rooftop drink is the perfect way to watch the sun set over Hanoi’s chaos, with the comfort of knowing your Group Leader and group are right there with you.

Hanoi → Ninh Binh
1 night: Ninh Binh
Discover deeper
After breakfast, we take our included transfer to Ninh Binh, often called “Ha Long Bay on land”. The ride is about 2.5 hours, and we arrive at our new hostel surrounded by rice paddies and karst formations. In the afternoon, we'll go for an easy walk or bike ride through the countryside. If we opt for bikes, we’ll go at a slow pace, cycling past local homes, buffaloes, and rivers.

Hoa Lu, Trang An & Mua Cave
1 night: Ninh Binh
Incredible views
This is one of the trip’s big nature days. The included Hoa Lu–Trang An–Mua Cave tour gives us temples, boat rides, and a sweaty but rewarding climb all in one go. The scenery is spectacular, and the pace keeps everyone moving without feeling rushed. We’ll return to the hostel tired but happy, and depending on the mood of the group, we might enjoy a little extra biking or a round of cold drinks as the sun dips behind the cliffs.

Ninh Binh → Phong Nha
1 night: Phong Nha
We continue South
Travel days are part of the backpacking experience, and this one takes us deeper into central Vietnam. We'll keep the vibe light with games, music and snack stops, and by now the bus feels like our shared living room. We roll into Phong Nha surrounded by jungle-covered hills and check into our chilled hostel. Dinner is informal and self-paid, but we eat together, and ready ourselves for a big day of exploring tomorrow.

Phong Nha Caves
1 night: Phong Nha
Another WOW moment
Phong Nha is all about wild landscapes, and this is a genuine wow moment of the trip. We go on a national park tour so we can explore some of Vietnam’s most impressive caves in a safe, organised way. We’ll spend the day walking through huge caverns, learning about the geology, and maybe getting a bit muddy if the group chooses the more adventurous options. In the evening, everyone drifts back to the hostel, tired but glowing—this is usually a day people remember long after the trip ends.

Phong Nha → Hue
1 night: Hue
Imperial Capital
We move from jungle to imperial capital, watching the landscape change through the window. The route towards Hue passes near the former DMZ, a reminder of Vietnam’s more recent history. Depending on preferences, we might include a short stop en route to visit a war site and understand more about the country we’re crossing. Once in Hue, we settle into our hostel and head out for a low-key dinner, ready to dive into temples and tombs tomorrow.

Imperial Hue
1 night: Hue
Today is for history lovers
With the moneypot, we hire a local guide who brings the ruined palaces and royal tombs to life, walking us through courtyards, halls, and gardens while explaining the stories behind them. The pace is relaxe,d so there’s time for photos and breaks. In the late afternoon, we return to the hostel, and anyone who still has energy can join an optional walk by the Perfume River as lights come on along the waterfront.

Hue → Hoi An
1 night: Hoi An
Hoi An old town & night market
This is one of the prettiest travel days. The road south towards Hoi An hugs the coast, with mountain and sea views that make the hours fly by. We arrive in a completely different vibe: lanterns, riverside bars, and tailor shops make Hoi An feel almost like a film set. After check-in, we wander as a group through the Old Town, soaking up the colours and atmosphere without rushing. We enjoy a lovely dinner and go exploring the nightlife together.

Hoi An Flavours & Crafts
1 night: Hoi An
Free time & Afternoon options
Hoi An is a place to slow down and enjoy the details—lanterns, fresh juice, market smells, riverlight. The morning is intentionally open, so travellers can follow their own energy, whether that’s getting something tailored, joining a casual walk, or sitting in a beautiful café. After lunch, we book a group experience together: perhaps a cooking class with a market visit, or a basket-boat trip through the coconut palms. Either way, it’s interactive, social, and full of laughter.

Hoi An → Ho Chi Minh City
1 night: Hoi An
Overnight bus
Our last day in Hoi An is about squeezing in favourite moments. Some will head to the beach, others will sip coffee in a cute courtyard. Before sunset, we regroup for a lantern boat ride to see the river from the water and enjoy a last look at the town lights. Then it’s time for the overnight bus: earplugs, hoodies, snacks, and shared stories as we head south to the biggest city in Vietnam.

Ho Chi Minh City
1 night: Ho Chi Minh City
Big City Energy
After the overnight bus, we step into the fast-paced Ho Chi Minh City. Scooters, skyscrapers, and street vendors collide, and our hostel becomes a much-needed base. Everyone gets their bearings, and we go to Quang Phu Cau, the incense village, for an unbelievable scenery. In the evening, we go out to taste local dishes and enjoy the energy of the city while staying together as a group.

Cu Chi Tunnels
1 night: Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnam's History
The Cu Chi Tunnels day is serious but essential. We travel out of the city to an area criss-crossed with underground tunnels and learn about the strategies and human stories of the conflict. The tour is fully included and well supported. Beware that some information about the Vietnam War may be sensitive. Back in HCMC, the evening is flexible: some will want a calm dinner, others might revisit Bui Vien. Either way, your Group Leader is there to keep you having an incredible time.

Ho Chi Minh City → Phnom Penh
1 night: Phnom Penh
Welcome to Cambodia!
It’s time for a new country and a fresh currency. The bus ride from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh is part of the story of moving overland across Indochina. The Group Leader handles logistics at the border and keeps an eye on everyone’s documents, so the process is as smooth as possible. Once in Phnom Penh, we settle into the hostel and stretch our legs along the riverside, where the mix of locals, monks, and travellers gives a first taste of Cambodian life.

Phnom Penh
1 night: Phnom Penh
Exploration + Cruise Sunset
We ease into Phnom Penh with a lighter day before the heavier history tomorrow. We visit some key landmarks, enjoy the walking routes, and visit good cafés. There’s time for solo exploring or resting by the hostel pool if available. Towards sunset, we may gather for a Mekong cruise and watch the skyline glow while we unwind from the journey.

A Dark Tale of History
1 night: Phnom Penh
History - not always good things
Today is one of the most intense but meaningful days of the trip. With a local guide, we visit S-21 and Choeung Ek to understand Cambodia’s recent history and the impact of the Khmer Rouge. The Group Leader will organise the logistics for us so we can focus on listening and reflecting. Anyone who needs to talk afterwards is always welcome. We close the day with something gentler—a quiet coffee, riverside walk, and shared meal—before heading back to the hostel.
Note: the visit to S-21 and Choeung Ek can shock some people. Optional.

Phnom Penh → Siem Reap
1 night: Siem Reap
Gateway to Angkor
We leave the capital behind and head towards the gateway to Angkor. The bus ride is straightforward, and by now everyone knows the drill—snacks, naps, playlists. In Siem Reap, our hostel is a short walk from the action, and the Group Leader leads a first look at the markets and main streets. Whether you’re in the mood for souvenirs, a massage or a simple noodle dinner, there’s something for every energy level tonight.

Angkor Wat
1 night: Siem Reap
Highlight of Cambodia
We’re up before the sun, but it’s worth it. Watching the silhouettes of Angkor Wat appear against a pink sky is one of those spine-tingling travel moments. Our guided tour continues through the day, exploring different temples and carving details that tell stories older than many countries. It’s a long, hot day but incredibly rewarding. In the evening, those with energy left can opt for another cultural hit like the circus, or choose a relaxed dinner nearby.

Siem Reap → Bangkok
1 night: Bangkok
Welcome to Thailand
The overland stretch is behind us; today, we fly into one of Asia’s most exciting cities. Thanks to the included flight, the long overland border crossing is replaced by an easy hop, and before long, we’re weaving through Bangkok’s traffic towards our hostel. In the evening, we keep things easy with a short walk and some night food markets, saving the big temple day for tomorrow.

Bangkok Temples
1 night: Bangkok
Incredible
Bangkok’s temples are dazzling, and today we see the big three. The Group Leader will remind everyone of dress codes and help navigate the boats and streets between stops. With entrances included, it’s a day to focus purely on the architecture, gold, and stories. After a break to have some much-needed lunch and water, we regroup for a nighttime tuk-tuk food tour, weaving through lit-up streets, trying dishes you’d never order alone, and ending the night with full stomachs and big grins.

Last Day in Bangkok & Farewell Dinner
1 night: Bangkok
Shopping, Massages, Markets, Memories
The last full day is all about doing whatever will make you feel happiest to leave: that final pad thai, that last massage, that one souvenir you’ve been eyeing up. At sunset, we regroup for a final dinner, included in the package, then hit a spot that shows off Bangkok’s skyline or riverside beauty. It’s the perfect time to swap photos, connect on socials, and promise to meet again on another WeRoad adventure.

Goodbye, Thailand!
See you again, friend
Our final morning is bittersweet: backpacks on, beds stripped, and one last coffee together in the common area. The Group Leader helps everyone organise their route to the airport. Any remaining Money Pot funds are returned equally, and we say goodbye, knowing we’ve shared something special—23 days of temples, caves, boats, buses, food, laughter, and late-night chats that started with “I booked this on my own” and ended as a group story.
What's included
22 nights in carefully selected hostels in mixed and female-only dorms (2–8 beds)
Breakfast included every day
Welcome Dinner in Hanoi on Day 1
Ha Long Bay day trip with lunch included on a shared boat on Day 2
Transfer via bus from Hanoi to Ninh Binh on Day 4
Medical and baggage insurance - (coverage limits by destination country/region - €10,000 Italy, €20,000 Europe, €30,000 World, €50,000 USA/Canada)
What's not included
- Food and beverages when not specified
Local transport (tuk-tuks, Grabs, taxis, etc.) - approx. USD120
Border Fees - approx. USD25
- All the extras you'll be able to fit in your backpack
- Anything not mentioned in the "What's included" section
Optional activities
Please see below extra optional activities that you can experience during your trip. Your Group Leader will be happy to assist with organizing these activities for the group. Availability may vary depending on location and group preferences.
Please note these activities are provided by third party suppliers and liability rests exclusively with these third party suppliers.
Hoi An Cooking Class & Basket Boat - approx. USD45
Visit to Quang Phu Cau Incense Village - approx. USD40
Backpacker Laundry Fund - approx. USD45
Additional info
Airport transfer not included
Accomodation in in carefully selected hostels in mixed and female-only dorms (2–8 beds)
- Info on private roomsShow all details
Why WeRoad
Small groups, on average 11 people
Move or change your trip for free up to 31 days before departure
Book with $ 0. Pay the $ 100 deposit only once the trip is confirmed
The Group Leaders
Find your flight
For this trip, we recommend arriving and departing from these airports.
This is a WeRoadX
A trip designed and created entirely by an experienced WeRoad Travel Group Leader.
This is a trip designed and created entirely by an experienced WeRoad Travel Group Leader. They organise the whole trip: from defining the itinerary to selecting accommodation and on-site experiences. On the WeRoad website you can book the trip and manage it in MyWeRoad, just like any other WeRoad.

































