Trip Snapshot
Route
Saigon - Mekong Delta - Hoi An - Hue - DMZ - Phong Nha - Ninh Binh - Hanoi - Sapa - Lan Ha Bay - Bac Ninh - Hanoi
Highlights
- • Complete Vietnam coverage: South to North
- • Mekong Delta floating markets and coconut groves
- • Cu Chi Tunnels and DMZ historical sites
- • Paradise Cave and Phong Nha boat trip
- • Sapa trekking with Hmong family homestay
- • 4-star luxury Lan Ha Bay cruise
- • 34 meals including Welcome Dinner and Street Food Safari
- • Bac Ninh ancestral tour and Vietnam Originals experience
Travel Moments
Selected Vietnam highlights from this journey.
Travel Moments Gallery
17 photos
Itinerary
Upon your morning arrival in Ho Chi Minh City—still affectionately known as Saigon—you will be greeted by your local guide and driver for a transfer to your hotel, enjoying a brief sightseeing orientation along the way. In the afternoon, you will dive into the city's dynamic blend of modern energy and deep history. The tour explores key historic sites, including the striking Independence Palace and the moving War Remnants Museum, before pausing at iconic French-colonial monuments. The evening concludes with a delicious welcome dinner introducing you to the unique flavors of southern Vietnamese cuisine.
Where you go
- Tan Son Nhat International Airport
- Saigon City Center Hotel
- The Independence Palace (Reunification Palace)
- War Remnants Museum
- Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
- Saigon Central Post Office
- Ben Thanh Market
- Local Dinner Restaurant
What you do
- Meet and greet with your regional guide and bus driver at the airport arrivals area
- Enjoy an introductory briefing of your upcoming itinerary during the bus transfer
- Take a panoramic orientation tour of Saigon’s lively, scooter-filled streets en route to the hotel
- Explore the grand halls and underground bunkers of the former presidential headquarters
- Gain deep historical insights into wartime history at the War Remnants Museum
- Take a guided architectural walk past the city’s historic French colonial landmarks
- Browse the bustling aisles of the historic Ben Thanh Market for a first look at local crafts
- Freshen up at the hotel before driving out for a celebratory welcome dinner
Meals
- Dinner
Leaving the high-energy streets of Saigon behind after breakfast, you will take a scenic drive out into the peaceful southern countryside, passing lush greenery, roadside stalls, and local rice paddies. Upon reaching the historic Cu Chi Tunnels complex, you will discover the brilliant engineering behind this massive 155-mile underground labyrinth. The guided tour covers the hidden trapdoors, meeting rooms, field hospitals, and the ingenious smokeless Hoang Cam stoves. You will watch a historic documentary, view massive B-52 bomb craters, and see workshops where self-made weapons and uniforms were crafted. Adventurous travelers will even have the chance to head underground into the reinforced tunnels or visit the national defense shooting range.
Where you go
- Saigon City Center
- Southern Vietnamese Countryside & Rice Farms
- Cu Chi Tunnels Complex
What you do
- Meet your guide for a convenient morning pickup straight from your hotel
- Enjoy a relaxing drive as the cityscape transforms into quiet, rural scenery
- Watch an informative documentary film detailing the history and construction of the tunnels
- Take a guided walk through the forest to discover hidden entrances and camouflage trap doors
- Examine historical exhibits, including the Museum of Self-made Weapons and bomb craters
- Experience the tight quarters firsthand by opting to crawl through a section of the expanded tunnels
- Visit the shooting range for an opportunity to fire historic rifles like the AK-47 or M16 (costs on your own)
- Return to your hotel in Saigon for a completely open afternoon and evening
Meals
- Breakfast
Leaving the urban sprawl of Saigon after breakfast, you will journey south into the lush Mekong Delta, famously known as Vietnam’s rice basket. Upon reaching the Tien River, you will board a motorized boat to cruise past scenic river islets, stopping to wander through fertile orchards, taste seasonal tropical fruits, and listen to a live performance of traditional folk music. The cruise continues into Ben Tre province—the land of coconuts—where you will visit a bee farm for honey tea and tour an artisanal coconut candy workshop. After a fun ride on a local motor cart or electric vehicle, you will step into a small, hand-rowed sampan boat to glide down quiet canals shaded by water coconut palms. The day finishes with a drive deeper into the delta to the riverside city of Can Tho for a free evening.
Where you go
- The Mekong Delta Region
- Tien River (My Tho)
- Dragon, Phoenix, and Unicorn Islets
- Ben Tre Province
- Vinh Long Pier
- Can Tho City
- Hotel in Can Tho
What you do
- Travel by road from Saigon past scenic rural landscapes and green rice paddies
- Embark on a motorized riverboat cruise to explore the delta's famous islands
- Stroll through local village fruit gardens and sample fresh, seasonal tropical fruits
- Enjoy a live performance of traditional Southern Vietnamese folk music by local artists
- Visit a local apiary (bee house) to sip honey tea and view a coconut candy workshop
- Opt to take a memorable photo with a friendly local python at the farm
- Ride along rustic village pathways on an entertaining electric car or local motor cart
- Paddle through narrow, peaceful canals sheltered by lush water coconut trees on a traditional rowing boat
- Re-board your vehicle at Vinh Long pier and transfer to Can Tho for a relaxing evening at leisure
Meals
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Start your day with a morning boat cruise along the scenic waterways of the Lower Mekong River to experience the bustling atmosphere of the Cai Rang Floating Market, where local traders sell fresh produce directly from their boats. You will step ashore to explore a rural village, wander through fertile fruit gardens, and visit an artisanal workshop to see how traditional rice noodles are handcrafted. After collecting your things, you will travel by road back to Saigon to catch a short afternoon domestic flight to Da Nang. Upon landing on the central coast, a final short transfer brings you to your hotel in the charming ancient town of Hoi An for a peaceful evening.
Where you go
- Cai Rang Floating Market
- Rural Village & Rice Noodle Shop
- Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Saigon)
- Da Nang International Airport
- Historic Center
- Hotel in Hoi An
What you do
- Board a motorized boat to explore the winding river channels and morning delta scenery
- Observe the unique, lively trading customs of the locals at the region's largest floating market
- Take a guided walk through a delta village to see traditional homes and fruit orchards
- Watch local artisans transform rice paste into traditional noodles at a neighborhood workshop
- Relax on the drive from the Mekong Delta back to the airport in Ho Chi Minh City
- Fly from Saigon to Da Nang on a short domestic flight
- Meet your central region driver upon arrival for a direct transfer down the coast to Hoi An
- Check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing, free evening in the lantern-lit town
Meals
- Breakfast
Start your morning stepping back in time with a guided walking tour through the wonderfully preserved lanes of Hoi An. You will visit ancient architectural gems that reflect the town's history as a major trading port, including centuries-old merchant houses, Chinese assembly halls, and the iconic Japanese Bridge. In the afternoon, you will head into the peaceful countryside on a guided bicycle tour. This excursion brings you close to local life as you visit a farming village to try your hand at traditional agriculture, spot water buffaloes in the fields, and paddle through a water coconut grove in a round bamboo basket boat. The day concludes with a visit to a local family home to sample traditional rice wine before returning to town for a free evening.
Where you go
- Hoi An Ancient Town Center
- Chua Ong Pagoda & Chinese Assembly Hall
- Tan Ky Ancestral House (200 years old)
- The Japanese Covered Bridge (Chùa Cầu)
- Tra Que Vegetable Village & Local Farms
- Cam Thanh Water Coconut Forest
- Rural Neighborhoods & Local Family Home
- Hotel in Hoi An
What you do
- Explore the narrow, winding historic streets of the UNESCO-listed town on a morning walking tour
- Admire the eclectic blend of Chinese, Japanese, and French colonial architecture
- Step inside a beautifully preserved ancestral home to see traditional woodwork and artifacts
- Gear up for an afternoon countryside cycling excursion led by local guides
- Meet rural residents and participate in light, hands-on garden work alongside local farmers
- Bike past pastoral landscapes, duck farms, and water buffaloes resting in the fields
- Cruise through the quiet channels of a water coconut farm in a spinning bamboo basket boat
- Visit a country home to learn about daily rural routines and taste authentic, locally brewed rice wine
- Enjoy a free evening back in town to browse boutique shops, visit tailors, or relax at a riverside cafe
Meals
- Breakfast
After breakfast, you will travel into the valley of the Champa Kingdom to explore the UNESCO-listed My Son Sanctuary. Here, you will discover ancient red-brick temple towers built centuries ago to worship Hindu gods, learn about Cham architectural engineering, and enjoy a traditional musical performance by Cham dancers. En route back to Hoi An, you will pause at the Sa Huynh Champa Culture Museum. In the afternoon, you will board a relaxing boat for a cruise along the Thu Bon River, taking in views of local trading life and riverside craft communities like Thanh Ha Pottery Village. Your day wraps up at a local market alongside a chef to pick out fresh herbs and spices before heading into the kitchen for a classic Vietnamese cooking class and dinner.
Where you go
- My Son Sanctuary Holy Land
- Sa Huynh Champa Culture Museum (Tra Kieu)
- Thu Bon River
- Thanh Ha Pottery Village & Kim Bong Wood Carving Village viewpoints
- Hoi An Central Market
- Cooking Class Restaurant
What you do
- Journey 40km into the lush foothills to explore the historic ruins of the Champa Kingdom
- Learn how ancient builders created durable red-brick monuments without modern mortar
- Watch a live performance of traditional music and elegant dances in colorful Cham attire
- Browse ancient regional artifacts and archeological findings at the culture museum in Tra Kieu
- Take a peaceful, slow-paced riverboat cruise down the Thu Bon River in the afternoon
- Observe rural craft traditions and daily commercial trade from the water
- Join a professional chef at the local market to select authentic ingredients for your meal
- Participate in a hands-on culinary workshop to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes
- Savor your self-made dinner creations with the group
- Spend a free evening in town, with an option to release a floating paper lantern onto the river
Meals
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Following breakfast, you will leave Hoi An and head north toward Da Nang. Your first stop is the historic Marble Mountains, where you will climb stone pathways to discover hidden grottos, centuries-old Buddhist shrines, and the dramatic underground depths of Am Phu Cave. From there, you will journey into the Truong Son Mountains to visit Ba Na Hills. You will ride a world-renowned cable car system up to the resort complex, stepping out onto the iconic Golden Bridge, cradled by two giant stone hands. After admiring the mountain vistas, exploring the French-inspired grounds, and having a diverse international buffet lunch, you can enjoy the indoor attractions at Fantasy Park. In the afternoon, you will descend by cable car and check into your Da Nang hotel for a free evening by the beach.
Where you go
- Marble Mountains Complex (Ngũ Hành Sơn)
- Am Phu Cave (Hell's Cave) & Linh Ung Pagoda
- Sun World Ba Na Hills Resort
- The Golden Bridge (Cầu Vàng)
- Fantasy Park Indoor Entertainment Zone
- Beachfront Hotel in Da Nang
What you do
- Take a short morning drive from your hotel to the jagged limestone peaks of the Marble Mountains
- Climb stone steps to tour natural caverns, Buddhist pagodas, and panoramic coastal viewpoints
- Venture into the cavernous Am Phu Cave to see its dramatic underground pathways
- Ascend Ba Na Hills on a spectacular, high-altitude cable car ride ranked among the world's best
- Walk along the high-altitude Golden Bridge for photographs and sweeping mountain views
- Experience the unique microclimate of the hill station, which often sees multiple seasons in a single day
- Spend free time trying out rides, simulator films, and attractions inside the indoor Fantasy Park
- Savor a large international buffet lunch at one of the mountaintop resort restaurants
- Ride the cable car back down the mountain and transfer to your hotel in Da Nang
- Enjoy a completely free evening to relax by the swimming pool or stroll down the sands of Da Nang's beaches
Meals
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Enjoy a relaxed morning before setting out for the lush Son Tra Peninsula, also known as Monkey Mountain. Here, you will visit the majestic Linh Ung Pagoda, home to the tallest Lady Buddha statue in Vietnam, while enjoying panoramic ocean views and a refreshing sea breeze. Leaving the peninsula, your route tracks along the stunning central coastline before climbing the legendary Hai Van Pass. This winding 21 km mountain road offers spectacular views of jagged green peaks meeting the blue sea below. Descending the pass, you will stop to see the long white sands of Lang Co Beach before driving on to the historic imperial capital of Hue. The evening concludes with a relaxing stroll along the Perfume River as the sun sets over the city.
Where you go
- Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain)
- Linh Ung Pagoda (Son Tra)
- Hai Van Pass
- Lang Co Beach & Fishing Village
- The Perfume River (Sông Hương) & Truong Tien Bridge
- Hotel Center in Hue
What you do
- Meet your driver for a late-morning pickup from your Da Nang hotel
- Travel up the winding roads of Son Tra Peninsula to take in the coastal views and cool microclimate
- Stand beneath the towering, 67-meter-tall Lady Buddha statue at Linh Ung Pagoda
- Embark on one of Vietnam's most scenic road trips, driving past Da Nang's long sandy beaches
- Wind through the dramatic mountain curves of the historic Hai Van Pass, stopping at the peak for photos
- Pause at the base of the mountains to walk along the white sands of scenic Lang Co Beach
- Arrive in Hue in the afternoon and check into your new hotel
- Take a peaceful late-afternoon walk along the banks of the Perfume River
- Catch a beautiful river sunset over the historic Truong Tien Bridge if the weather is clear
- Gather with your group for a traditional dinner introduction to Hue's unique regional cuisine
Meals
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Today you will experience Hue just like the locals do—from the back of a motorbike. Setting out into the peaceful countryside, you will ride along scenic routes to discover traditional craft villages specializing in conical hats and colorful incense sticks, as well as a historic royal Tiger Arena. You will climb into the gentle hills for a sweeping view over the Perfume River before shifting your focus to the city's rich imperial architecture. The itinerary features the ornate tombs of the Nguyen Emperors, the massive walled Imperial Citadel, and the legendary Forbidden Purple City. A major highlight of the day is a peaceful stop at a local pagoda for a traditional vegetarian lunch prepared by the resident nun community, followed by a visit to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda.
Where you go
- Hue Scenic Countryside & Hills
- Traditional Craft Villages (Incense & Conical Hats)
- The Ho Quyen Royal Tiger Arena
- Tombs of the Nguyen Emperors
- The Imperial Citadel & Forbidden Purple City
- Local Buddhist Pagoda (Nunnery Lunch Location)
- Thien Mu Pagoda (The Pagoda of the Celestial Lady)
- Hotel in Hue
What you do
- Hop onto the back of a motorbike for a guided "Top Gear-style" tour through Hue's historic streets and rural paths
- Visit local village workshops to see artisans handcrafting traditional incense sticks and conical hats (nón lá)
- Explore the atmospheric ruins of the 19th-century Tiger Arena, where royal duels were once staged
- Take in romantic panoramic views of the city and its waterways from the pine-covered hills overlooking the Perfume River
- Walk through the sprawling courtyard architecture, majestic palaces, and temples of the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel
- Dine on an authentic, multi-course vegetarian lunch inside a peaceful local pagoda, cooked and served by the nuns
- Tour the historic royal tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors to see their distinct stone carvings and landscapes
- Visit the striking, seven-story octagonal tower of Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest religious monument in Hue
- Board your support bus at the end of the afternoon for a comfortable transfer back to your hotel to relax
Meals
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Setting out early from Hue, this poignant and educational day takes you deep into the history of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). Your route northward stops at powerful historical witnesses of the 1972 battles, including the battle-scarred Long Hung Church and the Quang Tri Ancient Citadel. As you move west along the scenic mountain landscapes of Highway 9, you will cross the strategic Dakrong Bridge—a key point on the Ho Chi Minh Trail network—before reaching the remote valley of the Khe Sanh Combat Base, a major former US Marine Corps outpost. After lunch, the tour heads to the coast to explore the remarkable Vinh Moc Tunnels. Unlike tactical combat tunnels, this complex underground network was hand-dug to shelter an entire village community from heavy bombing, running deep into the clay earth and opening right out to the sea.
Where you go
- Long Hung Church National Relic (Quang Tri)
- Quang Tri Ancient Citadel
- Dakrong Bridge & The Ho Chi Minh Trail
- Khe Sanh Combat Base
- Vinh Moc Tunnels Complex
- Hotel in Dong Hoi (or Dong Ha)
What you do
- Meet your guide and driver at 7:00 AM in your hotel lobby for an early departure north
- View the preserved, bullet-torn facade of the historic Long Hung Church
- Walk through the quiet grounds of the Quang Tri Citadel, an eye-witness to the intense 81-day battle of 1972
- Pause for photographs at the scenic Dakrong Bridge, surrounded by immense rivers and mountains
- Explore the airfields, bunkers, and preserved military hardware at the Khe Sanh Combat Base
- Stop at a local regional restaurant to enjoy lunch on your own
- Descend into the hand-carved, multi-level civilian living quarters of the Vinh Moc Tunnels
- Follow the tunnels out to their hidden coastal exit points overlooking the sea
- Relax on the final afternoon drive north to check into your hotel in Dong Hoi (or nearby Dong Ha)
Meals
- Breakfast
After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, you will head into the heart of the UNESCO-listed Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Your morning begins with a scenic boat cruise along the Son River, passing rural riverbanks before gliding straight into the mouth of the massive Phong Nha Cave to view its beautifully illuminated stalactites. In the afternoon, you will transition from water to land to explore Paradise Cave, renowned as Asia's longest dry cave. A forest walk and a climb up the stone stairs bring you inside a massive cavern adorned with naturally sculpted, towering rock formations. After a memorable day of exploration, you will return to Dong Hoi to board a late-evening sleeper train for a short overnight journey north.
Where you go
- Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
- Son River & Phong Nha Cave
- Paradise Cave
- Dong Hoi Railway Station
- Overnight Sleeper Train (Heading North)
What you do
- Take a morning drive from Dong Hoi out into the limestone karst landscapes of Phong Nha
- Board a traditional wooden boat for a relaxing cruise past local villages along the scenic river
- Turn off the engines as you glide into the mouth of Phong Nha Cave to admire the colorful, ancient rock structures
- Walk the paved paths inside the cave's dry chambers before taking the boat back to town
- Journey deeper into the park's core zone to discover the dramatic depths of Paradise Cave
- Climb the jungle steps up to the hidden entrance and descend into the cool, cavernous interior
- Stroll along the extensive wooden boardwalk to photograph the towering columns and delicate stone draperies
- Head back to Dong Hoi in the late afternoon to grab dinner on your own and prepare for departure
- Arrive at the railway station to board the 7:52 PM overnight train for a comfortable sleeper ride north
Meals
- Breakfast
Arriving before dawn on the overnight train, you will transfer straight to your hotel for an early check-in and a restful morning. After lunch, you will set out to discover why Ninh Binh is celebrated as "Ha Long Bay on land". Your exploration begins at Hoa Lu, the ancient royal capital of Vietnam, where you will explore the historic temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le dynasties. Next, you will board a small, hand-rowed sampan boat in Tam Coc for a scenic cruise down a winding river, passing beneath three massive limestone caves and gliding past local rice paddies. If time allows, you can hop on a bicycle for a short ride along rural pathways to the striking, multi-tiered Bich Dong Pagoda built into the cliffside.
Where you go
- Ninh Binh Railway Station
- Hotel in Tam Coc / Ninh Binh
- Hoa Lu Ancient Capital (Temple of King Dinh & King Le)
- Tam Coc Wharf & Ngo Dong River
- Bich Dong Cave & Pagoda (Optional cycling destination)
What you do
- Meet your driver at Ninh Binh station for an early 3:18 AM transfer to your hotel to unpack and rest
- Spend a relaxing morning catching up on sleep and enjoying a fresh breakfast at the hotel
- Travel by road past limestone cliffs to reach the historic site of Hoa Lu
- Tour the ancient courtyards and admire the imperial architecture of the King Dinh and King Le temples
- Gather at a local restaurant to enjoy a mid-day lunch featuring regional specialities
- Board a traditional small sampan boat for a slow-paced, 2.5-hour river cruise through Tam Coc's three river caves
- Take advantage of the soft afternoon light to photograph the towering karst peaks and quiet green waterways
- Opt for a gentle bicycle ride through the countryside to visit the historic Bich Dong Pagoda
- Climb the stone stairs up the hillside for a wonderful panoramic perspective of the valley
- Return to your hotel for a peaceful, relaxing evening
Meals
- Breakfast
- Lunch
After breakfast in Tam Coc, you will check out and ride back to Hanoi to check into a day-use hotel room to refresh. At 1:00 PM, you will jump onto the back of a motorbike for an insider's tour of the capital. The route blends city icons with hidden gems, taking you across the historic Long Bien Bridge to explore the quiet vegetable farms and floating communities of Banana Island. You will cruise past the colorful stalls of the Quang An flower market, ride along the scenic shores of West Lake to visit the 1,500-year-old Tran Quoc Pagoda, and view the preserved B-52 wreckage in Huu Tiep Lake. After stops at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the famous Hanoi Train Street, you will admire French colonial architecture at St. Joseph’s Cathedral and the Opera House. The day concludes with free time in the Old Quarter before boarding a first-class sleeper train for your next destination.
Where you go
- Tam Coc (Ninh Binh)
- Hanoi Old Quarter
- Long Bien Bridge
- Quang An Flower Market & West Lake
- Tran Quoc Pagoda & Huu Tiep Lake (B-52 Crash Site)
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex
- Hanoi Train Street & Phung Hung Cafe Zone
- St. Joseph's Cathedral & Hanoi Opera House
- Hanoi Railway Station
What you do
- Enjoy breakfast at your Tam Coc hotel before boarding the morning transfer bus back to Hanoi
- Check into a day-use hotel room in the capital to unpack your gear and relax before the afternoon tour
- Meet your riding guides at 1:00 PM for a safety briefing on how to sit comfortably on the back of the motorbike
- Ride across the iron spans of the historic Long Bien Bridge for views over the Red River
- Descend onto Banana Island to stroll through lush fruit plantations, vegetable fields, and see a local floating village
- Zip past the daytime stalls of the Quang An wholesale flower market and cruise along the shores of West Lake
- Explore the historic courtyards and shrines of Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist symbol in the city
- Weave through neighborhood alleys to view the preserved B-52 bomber wreckage in Huu Tiep Lake
- Pause outside the grand granite monument of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum to learn about his legacy
- Walk along the narrow tracks of Hanoi Train Street and watch the neighborhood routines from a local cafe
- Take photos of historic French colonial architecture at the gothic St. Joseph's Cathedral and the grand Opera House
- Return to the hotel to freshen up, pack, and spend a free evening dining on your own in the Old Quarter
- Transfer to the railway station to board your overnight sleeper train
Meals
- Breakfast
Arriving in the cool mountains of Sapa early this morning, you will transfer straight to your hotel to freshen up and unpack before breakfast. Once ready, you will set off on a guided trek southwest into the lush Hoang Lien Son mountain range. Your first stop is Cat Cat village, a traditional community of the Black H’mong ethnic minority, where you will wander past terraced fields, rustic wooden homes, and the historic remains of a French colonial hydroelectric station near a beautiful waterfall. After a relaxing break by the river, you will continue hiking to Sin Chai village, nestled directly at the foot of Fansipan Mountain—the highest peak in Indochina. Here, you will take in the dramatic high-altitude landscapes before a jeep meets you for a comfortable ride back up to Sapa town.
Where you go
- Lao Cai / Sapa Train Station
- Sapa Mountain Town Center
- Cat Cat Village (Black H'mong Community)
- Cat Cat Waterfall & Historic Hydroelectric Station
- Sin Chai Village
- Foothills of Fansipan Mountain ("The Roof of Indochina")
- Hotel Center in Sapa
What you do
- Arrive early in the morning and transfer up the winding mountain roads to your hotel in Sapa
- Use the morning to unpack your gear, take a warm shower, and relax before hitting the trails
- Begin a downward valley trek from the town center into the scenic homelands of the Black H'mong people
- Walk through Cat Cat village to observe traditional indigo dyeing, weaving practices, and local architecture
- Rest by the banks of the rushing river and take photos of the beautiful mountain waterfall
- See the concrete foundations of the old hydroelectric power station built during the French colonial era
- Enjoy a peaceful picnic-style lunch with a view right by the riverside
- Continue your trek along the valley floor to the quieter, less-visited village of Sin Chai
- Soak in the sweeping panoramic views of the massive rice terraces and mountain peaks towering above you
- Board an open-air jeep in Sin Chai for a rugged, scenic drive back up the mountain slopes to Sapa
- Spend a free evening exploring Sapa’s misty streets, mountain cafes, or the local night market
Meals
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Fuel up with breakfast at your hotel before setting off into the sweeping landscapes of the Muong Hoa Valley, famed for its massive, sculpted rice terraces. Today's trek offers flexible routes tailored to your preferred pace, guiding you through the ancestral lands of the H'mong, Dzao, and Dzay ethnic groups. Along the way, you will visit the villages of Lao Chai and Ta Van to meet local families and learn about their mountain routines. After a scenic picnic lunch in a hill tribe village, you will hike to your destination for the night: a welcoming local homestay. The evening features a shared family dinner cooked by your hosts, offering a genuine window into rural life.
Where you go
- Muong Hoa Valley
- Lao Chai Village (Black H'mong Community)
- Ta Van Village (Giay / Dzay Community)
- Local H'mong Family Homestay
What you do
- Pack a light daypack with your essentials for the hike and leave your main luggage securely stored
- Select the daily trekking distance that best matches your comfort level.
- Follow your local guide past cascading rice terraces and panoramic mountain gaps
- Stop in remote settlements to chat with residents and observe traditional daily life
- Pause midday to enjoy a relaxed picnic-style lunch right inside a local hill tribe village
- Arrive at your H'mong family homestay in the afternoon to settle in and explore the property
- Gather around the table for a hearty, home-cooked dinner prepared by your ethnic minority hosts
- Spend a peaceful evening sharing stories under the roof of a traditional wooden house on stilts
Meals
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Enjoy a final breakfast with your host family before saying your goodbyes and setting out on a short walk to a nearby village meeting point. From there, a shuttle brings you back up the mountain slopes to Sapa town, where you will have some free time to grab lunch or pick up souvenirs. In the midday, you will board a comfortable express bus for the journey back to Hanoi. The drive takes you down from the highlands and along the modern highway, offering views of rural valleys and winding rivers. You will arrive back in the capital in the late afternoon, check into your hotel, and enjoy a completely free evening to explore the bustling streets of the Old Quarter.
Where you go
- Ta Van / Lao Chai Village Homestay
- Sapa Town Center
- Lao Cai – Hanoi Expressway
- Hanoi Old Quarter / Central Hotel
What you do
- Savor a final home-cooked breakfast with your ethnic minority hosts before checking out
- Take a gentle morning walk through the surrounding fields to the nearby vehicle pickup point
- Ride the shuttle bus back up into Sapa town to collect any luggage left in storage
- Enjoy a couple of free hours in Sapa to relax at a mountain cafe, stroll around the lake, or do some last-minute shopping
- Board the daytime express bus for the return journey to the capital
- Sit back and take in the changing landscapes as you transition from rugged peaks to the flat rice paddies of the Red River Delta
- Arrive back in Hanoi in the late afternoon and check into your new hotel room
- Spend a relaxing evening diving back into Hanoi's vibrant food scene, exploring the night markets, or walking around Hoan Kiem Lake
Meals
- Breakfast
From 7:45 AM to 8:15 AM, you will be picked up from your hotel in Hanoi to join a shared shuttle bus, driving along the modern highway to Hai Phong and arriving at Tuan Chau Marina between 8:15 AM and 11:30 AM. After a short rest, a high-speed tender will transfer you to the 5-star La Casta Cruise. Once onboard, you will receive a welcome drink, a safety briefing, and check into your suite cabins. At 13:00 PM, enjoy lunch in the restaurant as the cruise departs into Lan Ha Bay. At 15:45 PM, you will visit the Ba Trai Dao area for kayaking, swimming, and sightseeing (or Dark and Bright Cave if weather dictates). At 17:30 PM, return to the cruise for a sunset party with a Happy Hour promotion, followed by a cooking demonstration at 18:00 PM. At 19:30 PM, enjoy a special seafood and Vietnamese dinner, followed by evening entertainment like squid fishing and karaoke at 21:00 PM before staying overnight onboard.
Where you go
- Hanoi Old Quarter
- Tuan Chau Marina (Ha Long Port)
- Lan Ha Bay
- Ba Trai Dao area
- La Casta Cruise
What you do
- 7:45 – 8:15: Get picked up from your hotel and join the shuttle bus
- 8:15 – 11:30: Travel along the newest highway connecting Hanoi and Hai Phong to Tuan Chau Marina
- 11:30 – 12:00: Take a rest at the waiting lounge before a 25-minute high-speed tender transfer to the main boat
- Receive a warm welcome, welcome drink, safety guidelines, and complete check-in procedures for your suite cabin
- 13:00: Enjoy a lunch in the restaurant as the cruise departs for the voyage to discover Lan Ha Bay
- 15:45: Visit Ba Trai Dao area and the natural lagoon for kayaking, swimming, sightseeing, and exploring (or Dark and Bright Cave for bamboo boats/swimming depending on weather conditions)
- 17:30 – 18:30: Return to the cruise and enjoy the pre-dinner sunset party with a Buy 1 Get 1 Free Happy Hour promotion at the bar
- 18:00: Join a cooking demonstration to learn how to make simple signature Vietnamese dishes
- 19:30: Enjoy special seafood and typical Vietnamese food on the cruise
- 21:00: Participate in evening entertainment including squid fishing and karaoke before spending the night onboard
Meals
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Wake up at 6:15 AM for a Tai Chi session and sunrise viewing on the sundeck before having breakfast from 7:00 AM to 7:45 AM. Between 8:00 AM and 8:30 AM, a day boat picks you up for a separate 3-day-2-night itinerary, sailing past Ba Trai Dao and Van Boi toward Viet Hai village. From 9:40 AM to 10:30 AM, explore the 100-year-old Viet Hai village by cycling, experiencing a fish massage, and interacting with locals. From 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM, kayak through secluded parts of Lan Ha Bay before returning to the day boat for lunch at 12:30 PM. From 14:00 PM to 15:00 PM, enjoy walking or swimming at Ba Trai Dao or Van Boi Beach, followed by leisure time on the boat until 16:30 PM. You will return to the main La Casta Cruise between 16:40 PM and 18:30 PM for a sunset happy hour, a cooking demonstration at 18:00 PM, a seafood dinner at 19:30 PM, and evening activities like squid fishing or karaoke at 21:00 PM.
Where you go
- Lan Ha Bay
- Viet Hai Village
- Ba Trai Dao Beach or Van Boi Beach
What you do
- 6:15: Wake up early, join the Tai Chi session on the sundeck, and watch the sunrise over the bay
- 7:00 – 7:45: Have breakfast while taking in the morning views of the bay with tea or coffee
- 8:00 – 8:30: Get picked up by a day boat for the exclusive 3-day-2-night excursion program
- 8:30 – 9:30: Transfer to the day boat and sail deeper into Lan Ha Bay toward Ba Trai Dao, Van Boi, and Viet Hai
- 9:40 – 10:30: Visit the 100-year-old Viet Hai village to cycle around, see paddy fields, try a fish massage, and meet local residents
- 10:30 – 12:00: Go kayaking to explore hidden, remote areas of Lan Ha Bay only accessible by water
- 12:30 – 13:30: Return to the day boat to enjoy a freshly prepared lunch
- 14:00 – 15:00: Spend time walking or swimming at Ba Trai Dao Beach or Van Boi Beach
- 15:00 – 16:30: Relax during leisure time on the day boat as it sails back to the main ship pickup location
- 16:40 – 18:30: Reboard the main La Casta cruise and enjoy a pre-dinner sunset party with a Buy 1 Get 1 Free Happy Hour at the bar
- 18:00: Participate in a cooking demonstration to learn simple signature Vietnamese recipes from the chef
- 19:30: Sit down for a special dinner featuring local seafood and traditional Vietnamese cuisine
- 21:00: Join the evening entertainment options, including karaoke and squid fishing, before staying overnight onboard
Meals
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Wake up at 6:15 AM for a Tai Chi session on the sundeck to watch the sunrise over Lan Ha Bay. After breakfast from 7:00 AM to 7:45 AM, head out at 08:00 AM to take in views of the limestone islets and visit the famous Tra Bau area for kayaking and swimming. Return to your cabin at 09:00 AM to pack, and complete the check-out procedure at 09:30 AM. From 10:30 AM, enjoy a brunch in the restaurant before disembarking at Tuan Chau harbor at 11:30 AM. You will transfer back to Hanoi, arriving around 3:00 PM. In the afternoon, embark on the Hanoi Street Food Tour through the Old Quarter's alleys and local markets, tasting Nem Ran, Banh Cuon, Bun Cha, Banh My, and local Egg Coffee or Bia Hoi.
Where you go
- Tra Bau area (Lan Ha Bay)
- Tuan Chau Harbor
- Hanoi Old Quarter & Local Markets
What you do
- 6:15: Wake up early, join the Tai Chi session on the sundeck, and watch the sunrise in Lan Ha Bay
- 7:00 – 7:45: Have breakfast while viewing the bay landscape with a cup of tea or coffee
- 08:00: Stroke the stunning views of the bay and its dramatic limestone islets, and visit Tra Bau for free kayaking, exploring, or swimming
- 09:00: Return to your cabin to relax and carefully check all your luggage before leaving
- 09:30: Complete the check-out procedure and enjoy the cruise views on the bay
- 10:30: Sit down for a freshly prepared brunch at the cruise restaurant
- 11:30: Disembark from the ship at Tuan Chau harbor for your return transfer to the capital
- 15:00: Arrive back in Hanoi city, check into your hotel, and begin the afternoon street food excursion
- Walk through the small bustling alleys of the Old Quarter and local markets to explore the city's food culture
- Taste authentic local specialties: Nem Ran (Hanoi spring rolls), Banh Cuon (rice steam cakes), Bun Cha (pork barbecue with fresh noodles), Banh My (Vietnamese baguette), and fresh salads
- Try local drinks like traditional Egg Coffee or Bia Hoi (local draught beer) alongside local residents
Meals
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
You are welcomed at your hotel at 8:00 AM for an hour's transfer to Bac Ninh by a support vehicle. Arriving at the banks of the Duong River between 8:30 AM and 8:45 AM, you will gear up for a bike ride through fertile riverside farms, bamboo groves, and rice fields, with opportunities to interact with local farmers. After visiting the 13th-century But Thap Pagoda, you will cycle through the fields to a local village between 10:45 AM and 11:00 AM to learn how traditional tofu is manually made from soybeans. At 11:45 AM, continue to the dyke to visit the ancient Kinh Duong Vuong Ancestral Mausoleum. Enjoy a traditional family lunch in a historic wooden house between 12:30 PM and 13:00 PM, followed by a walk to see ancestral paper offerings being crafted. At 14:00 PM, cycle to Dong Ho village to create your own traditional woodblock folk painting on natural Dzo paper. After wandering the peaceful countryside from 16:30 PM to 17:00 PM, you will drive back to Hanoi for the night (or opt for a local village homestay).
Where you go
- Duong River Dyke & Riverside Farms
- But Thap Pagoda
- Tofu Village & Kumquat Gardens
- Kinh Duong Vuong Ancestral Mausoleum
- Traditional Wooden House (Lunch Location)
- Dong Ho Folk Painting Village
What you do
- 8:00: Meet your vehicle support team at the hotel for a one-hour transfer out of Hanoi to Bac Ninh
- 8:30 – 8:45: Stop at the bank of the Duong River, prepare your biking equipment, and begin cycling past rural farms, fields, and villages
- Pause to greet local farmers, try hands-on agricultural work like ploughing or seeding, and photograph water buffaloes
- Visit But Thap Pagoda to explore its 13th-century history and see the famous thousand-arms, thousand-eyes Buddhist statue
- 10:45 – 11:00: Cycle through the rice fields to a local village to observe the manual process of making fresh tofu from soybeans
- Walk through a local kumquat garden filled with thousands of trees grown for the Lunar New Year tradition
- 11:45 – 12:00: Ride up to the river dyke to visit the historical Kinh Duong Vuong Ancestral Mausoleum under its giant old trees
- 12:30 – 13:00: Sit down for a local lunch inside a traditional tile-roofed brick and wooden house with a local family
- Try rolling your own fresh rolls during lunch and tour the village to see how colorful paper ancestor offerings are made
- 14:00 – 14:30: Cycle to Dong Ho village to learn about UNESCO-recognized folk art and make your own traditional woodblock print
- Use natural woodblocks, plant-based inks, and traditional Dzo paper to print symbolic local designs like the "Rat Wedding"
- 16:30 – 17:00: Spend your final time wandering around the countryside to enjoy the scenery before driving back to Hanoi
Meals
- Breakfast
- Lunch
After enjoying your final breakfast at the hotel, the morning is entirely yours to spend at leisure. You can use this free time to take a peaceful stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, wander through the historic streets of the Old Quarter to pick up final souvenirs, or relax at a local cafe. At the scheduled time, your private driver will meet you at the hotel lobby to collect your luggage and transfer you directly to the airport for your onward or international flight, marking the official conclusion of your 21-day journey through Vietnam.
Where you go
- Hanoi Old Quarter
- Noi Bai International Airport (HAN)
What you do
- Savor your final breakfast at the hotel in Hanoi before completing your checkout procedures
- Enjoy a completely free morning for independent sightseeing, photography, or wrapping up your gift shopping in the city center
- Meet your private driver at the designated time in the hotel lobby for a smooth transfer out to the airport
- Arrive at the international or domestic terminal, check in for your departure flight, and clear customs for your journey home
Meals
- Breakfast
What Makes This Tour Special
The most comprehensive Vietnam experience. 21 days covering every highlight from Mekong Delta to Sapa mountains, with authentic local encounters throughout.
Hotel Options
Inclusions & Exclusions
What's Included
- All accommodation as per tour grade
- Private transportation with A/C
- English-speaking local guide
- Meals as mentioned in itinerary
- All entrance fees & activities
- Airport pickup & drop-off
- 24/7 local support
What's Not Included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Tips & gratuities
- Visa fees (if applicable)
- Drinks & meals not mentioned
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