From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, discover Vietnam’s remote ethnic minority villages and go trekking in the beautiful Mai Chau Valley, cruise around the limestone peaks of picturesque Halong Bay and the floating markets of the Mekong, explore imperial cities and more on this 13 day tour.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Hanoi
Wednesday. Xin Chao! Welcome to Vietnam! On arrival at the airport you’ll be transferred to our hotel, where the rest of the day is free to explore Hanoi at leisure. Perhaps visit the Presidential Palace or Ho Chi Minh’s famous House on Stilts.
For those arriving early or the day before the tour begins, consider our Backstreets of Hanoi add-on. Explore the lesser-visited districts of Cho Buoi, Hoang Hoa Tham and Vinh Phuc. You’ll also get to ride behind a driver on taxi motorbikes through the narrow streets of the city and along the shore of Ho Tay Lake.
Overnight: Hanoi
Mai Chau Valley
Hanoi - Mai Chau. Leaving bustling Hanoi behind we drive to the picturesque Mai Chau Valley this morning, which is home to the White Thai ethnic minority group. Lunch is served at a traditional family-run guesthouse on stilts in the charming village of Mai Hich and this afternoon we enjoy a leisurely walk through the back roads and rice fields of the valley for our first encounter with the Thai people, going about their daily lives. The rest of the day is free to spend at leisure. You can relax by the swimming pool at the lodge or there are bikes you can hire to explore more of the countryside.
Overnight: Mai Chau | Breakfast, Lunch
Trek through H'mong ethnic lands
Today we drive to the H’mong ethnic lands in the mountainous province of Hoa Binh and the rocky plateau of Hang Kia. Meet the colourfully dressed locals and eat lunch in a traditional wooden home. This afternoon we enjoy an easy-paced trek downhill to Mai Chau Valley, admiring the picturesque scenery as we go. We'll then be transferred back to our lodge in the valley.
Please note: If you prefer not to trek, we can transfer you by road back to the lodge, where you can enjoy the afternoon at leisure.
Overnight: Mai Chau | Breakfast, Lunch
Muong Culture Museum
Mai Chau - Hanoi. There’s the opportunity to visit the local Mai Chau market this morning, before we continue to the town of Hoa Binh. Explore the charming Muong Culture Museum to see women in traditional dress and authentic Muong stilt houses, as well as a collection of fascinating artefacts. After our visit we enjoy a traditional Muong lunch, before returning to Hanoi.
Overnight: Hanoi | Breakfast
Junk boat cruising in Halong Bay
Hanoi - Halong Bay. This morning we leave Hanoi and drive to the beautiful UNESCO-listed Halong Bay. The bay is dotted with around 2,000 limestone islets and some are home to flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth. Board a deluxe Junk Boat and enjoy stunning views as we sail around the bay and discover the striking stalagmites and stalactites in Trinh Nu Cave. There's also the opportunity to swim and kayak. This evening enjoy a Vietnamese cooking demonstration and a delicious seafood dinner onboard, before we spend the night in the bay.
Overnight: Deluxe Junk Boat | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hanoi cyclo ride
Halong Bay - Hanoi - Hue. Early risers can enjoy a sunrise Tai Chi class on deck or perhaps opt for a traditional massage. Before heading back to port this morning we explore the beautiful Sung Sot cave (Surprise Grotto), which is 10,000m² and consists of two major chambers. These spectacular chambers are spacious enough to hold thousands of people.
This afternoon we return to Hanoi and enjoy an exciting rickshaw ride around the city’s narrow streets. See highlights of the capital including the Opera House and Ly Thai To Park. We’ll then take a walk through the “36 Streets” of the Old Quarter. Tonight, we board the ‘Reunification Express’ night train to Hue (standard 4 berth sleeper cabin) or there is an option to fly to Hue if you prefer.
Overnight: Sleeper train | Breakfast
Imperial Hue
Arrive in Hue today and enjoy a guided tour of this former imperial capital of Vietnam. Discover the iconic seven story Thien Mu Pagoda - Hue’s most famous landmark and home to the oldest monastery in the city. We’ll also explore the Imperial Purple Palace, heavily bombed during the 1968 TET Offensive. Later, visit the Royal Tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty kings and the mausoleum of Emperor Tu Duc. The Emperor spent much of his reign living at this lavish site but was actually buried elsewhere in the city. His final resting place remains undiscovered to this day. This evening, there’s an optional long boat excursion on the Perfume River. Marvel at the rugged mountain scenery as we cruise along.
Overnight: Hue | Breakfast, Lunch
The Hai Van Pass to Hoi An
Hue - Road of the Ocean Clouds - Hoi An. Today we drive along the famous Hai Van Pass (Road of the Ocean Clouds), one of the most beautiful coast roads in the world. Enjoy the striking views before we stop for a walk and a quick swim at My Khe beach - famous for appearing in the blockbuster film ‘Apocalypse Now’. Continue to the charming port city of Hoi An for a guided walking tour. Explore highlights including the Chua Ong Pagoda and the iconic Japanese Bridge. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the cobbled streets and bustling waterfront of the city. You may also wish to consider our Hoi An Street Eats add-on. Hop on a vintage Vespa motorcycle and ride with a driver to several local restaurants. Try delicious all-you-can eat local cuisine and enjoy free-flowing drinks.
Overnight: Hoi An | Breakfast
Tra Que farm experience & bike ride
Enjoy a leisurely bike ride into the countryside this morning to visit a local farm in Tra Que village. Here we learn about traditional farming methods and medicine, don conical hats and have a go at farming the fields ourselves. We’ll then enjoy a tasty lunch, but not before we cook it ourselves during a fun and interactive cooking demonstration.
Overnight: Hoi An | Breakfast, Lunch
Free time in Hoi An
Today is free to enjoy in Hoi An at leisure. Consider taking a rowboat along the river, relax on the beach or do some shopping. Alternatively you can opt for an excursion to the UNESCO-listed My Son sanctuary or enjoy a day trip to the popular Ba Na Hills mountain resort, where you will ride the second longest cable car in the world and walk along the striking Golden Bridge (book and pay locally).
Overnight: Hoi An | Breakfast
Cruising the Mekong
Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City. This morning we fly to Ho Chi Minh City (included) and drive to the Mekong Delta. Board a traditional sampan at Cai Be and cruise down the canals, enjoying the stunning scenery as we sail. Watch the locals go about their daily lives and stop at some of the home factories where local people produce popcorn and sweets. We’ll enjoy lunch in a traditional wooden home on Dong Hoa Hiep Island.
Overnight: Can Tho | Breakfast, Lunch
Mekong & Ho Chi Minh City
Can Tho - Ho Chi Minh City. Early this morning we visit the Cai Rang floating market before returning to Ho Chi Minh City. Enjoy a walking tour of the former capital of South Vietnam and take in highlights of the city including the Notre Dame Cathedral and the sobering War Remnants Museum.
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City | Breakfast
Ho Chi Minh City
Monday. This morning is free to explore Ho Chi Minh City as you please, before our tour ends with a departure transfer to the airport.
If you wish, extend your tour with a day trip to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, vital to the Viet Cong fighters during the Vietnam War. Crawl through a section of the tunnels and fire assault weapons at the firing range.
Breakfast
Cu Chi Tunnels - go underground!
Discover the Cu Chi Tunnels - a vast underground network of tunnels and hideouts used by Viet Cong guerrilla fighters during the 1960’s. Often lead by a relative of a Viet Cong fighter in green fatigues you’ll walk the bush trails discovering grass covered trapdoors, ingenious, yet gruesome booby traps and hidden underwater entrances in rivers. There is also an opportunity to go underground and pop off a few rounds at the firing range. Our Cu Chi Tunnels bolt-on includes return transportation to and from Cu Chi, guided tour and 1 night accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City.
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 persons. 'Twin Share' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. 'Single Room' prices are applicable to those who don’t have anyone to share a room with or anyone wanting the privacy of a single room.
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Extra Prices
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Sunway Hotel, Hanoi
This ambient, boutique hotel combines traditional appeal with modern pleasures. Rooms are furnished in a contemporary fashion with an array of amenities for added comfort. Its restaurant provides a great variety of Vietnamese cuisine and you are welcome to enjoy cocktails and live music in the Jazz Bar or relax in the hotel's health spa.
Sleeper train - 4 berth cabin, Hanoi
Cabins on board are comfortable though not comparable to European standards. Aboard each wagon are 9 compartments that comprise of 4 bunks per compartment shared by mixed sexes. A western-style toilet (with a varying degree of cleanliness) is located at either end of the wagon. Air-conditioning (not always operational in the summer) and lighting are controlled from inside the cabin, which is also lockable. Luggage can be stored in a compartment under the bottom bunk. Linen and a pillow are provided.
Sol Bungalows, Mai Chau
Surrounded by emerald mountains and bamboo gardens, Sol Bungalows is set in the very heart of the Mai Chau valley. Its guestrooms are elegantly decorated and equipped with modern amenities including complimentary WiFi access. This secluded resort is the perfect spot to relax and soak up the dramatic scenery, with fantastic views over the surrounding lush rice paddies. An onsite restaurant offers delicious regional fare and guests can enjoy a host of other activities including a weaving class, traditional dance class, massage treatments, mountain biking and much more.
Bhaya Classic I Junk Boat, Halong Bay
This premier cruise boat offers 18 well appointed cabins with en suite amenities. Cabins are contemporary in design, whilst the finer touches have a distinct oriental influence. All cabins feature large windows creating a bright and airy atmosphere as well as scenic views. Facilities and services onboard include a dining room and bar, a sunbathing area on-deck, masseur and small library.
Syrena Junk Boat, Halong Bay
A tradition hand crafted boat, the Syrena Junk Boat offers superb en suite air conditioned cabins with comfortable interiors and balconies. The on board Lotus Restaurant serves up a delicious array of Vietnamese and International cuisine. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the public areas. Swimming, kayaking and tai chi are all offered on board and movie nights are also very popular.
Mondial Hotel, Hue
Just a 5 minute walk from the Ho Chi Minh museum, the Mondial Hotel is a contemporary hotel with excellent amenities. Guest rooms benefit from spacious interiors, comfortable beds and lots of mod-cons. There is complimentary Wi-Fi for guests, an outdoor pool and onsite spa - perfect for a re laxing massage. As well as the delicious Huong Xuan Restaurant there is also the Lobby Lounge - great for cocktails before dinner!
ÊMM Hotel, Hue
Situated in the heart of the former imperial capital, ÊMM Hotel is the perfect base from which to explore Hue’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed sights. Completely renovated in 2016, the guestrooms are generously-sized and complete with modern amenities. The imperial jade and royal purple colour scheme was inspired by ancient Hue itself and guests can take advantage of the mini-gym, pool-side bar and a spacious reading area. Enjoy delicious Vietnamese and international cuisine in the contemporary restaurant after a day of exploring.
River Green Hotel, Hoi An
Set next to the Hoai River, the River Green Hotel is just a five-minute walk from the iconic Japanese Bridge. Guestrooms offer city or river views, alongside all the amenities you’d expect of a contemporary hotel. There’s an outdoor pool, perfect for a refreshing swim, and an on-site restaurant where you can enjoy a variety of international flavours. Complimentary WiFi, bicycle hire and a fitness centre add to this hotel's list of facilities, making it a great base for exploring historic Hoi An.
Vinh Hung Riverside Resort, Hoi An
Situated right on the banks of the Thu Bon River, this upscale hotel is just a 10-minute walk from the ancient town of Hoi An. Combining Vietnamese tradition with modern facilities, its guestrooms are set in coconut tree-shaded gardens beside the water. They’re well-equipped, with free WiFi and air conditioning, as well as private balconies. The hotel also offers a riverside restaurant, serving local specialties and western dishes on the outdoor terrace. This hotel’s highlight, however, is its pool and fabulous swim up bar, which is the perfect place to enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail.
Thanh Binh Riverside hotel , Hoi An
Boasting a beautiful outdoor swimming pool, the Thanh Binh Riverside offers excellent accommodation in a great loacation. Guest rooms benefit from garden or river views and all come full air-conditioned, with stunning hardwood floors and all mod-cons. The onsite restaurant offers a great selection of Vietnamese and International dishes and the town centre is just a mere 200m walk away. Why not grab a cocktail and relax by the pool in the afternoon - a great way to refresh yourself from the Vietnam heat.
Victoria Hotel Can Tho, Can Tho
This attractive, colonial-style resort is tastefully decorated with well-appointed rooms and a wide range of facilities including a spa, tennis courts, open-air bar, restaurant and a gym. The hotel also offers sunrise and sunset cruises to the floating markets aboard the Lady Hau junk.
Iris Hotel, Can Tho
This elegant hotel is housed within a modern building in the city of Can Tho. Each guest room comes equipped with plush furnishings to ensure a good night's sleep and is decorated with a neutral palate and calming tones. Rooms look over the city and boast a range of modern amenities such as air conditioning and stylish ensuite facilities. Magnificent views of the city can be had from the hotel's skybar while a range of gourmet local and international dishes can be sampled at the onsite restaurant.
Muong Thanh Centre, Ho Chi Minh City
Centrally located, yet on a peaceful, tree-lined street, you will find the Muong Thanh Centre. Only a ten-minute walk from top attractions such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, Opera House and Ben Thanh Market, this hotel is a great base for exploring the famous sights of the city. Its guest rooms boast sophisticated designs and panoramic views. Warm and friendly, the Muong Thanh Centre also features a spa and swimming pool for you to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
Lotus Central Hotel, Ho Chi Minh City
Just footsteps from the Ben Thanh Market, the Lotus Central Hotel offers a great location in Ho Chi Minh City. Its guestrooms are well-equipped, with ensuite bathrooms, air conditioning and free WiFi. On the 8th floor you’ll find the Moon Restaurant, where you can enjoy a range of Vietnamese, Asian and Western specialties. However this hotel’s highlight is the rooftop pool, where you can enjoy a cocktail or two alongside views over the city.
In Brief
Tour Add-ons
Enhance your trip with these amazing added extras and add-ons
