VIETNAM AWAKENS: 19 DAYS UNCOVERING THE HIDDEN GEMS OF A CHANGING LAND

Durations

19 Days

Difficulty

Medium

Min Age

5

Itinerary

Our 19-day Vietnam adventure takes you from Hanoi's history to Halong Bay's beauty, Sapa's rice terraces, Hue's imperial past, Hoi An's charm, Ho Chi Minh City's history, and the Mekong Delta's floating markets. It's an immersive journey that will touch your heart and soul

Upon your arrival at the airport, you will be personally pick up by our local guide and driver. Take some time to settle by check in the hotel and take a break. Once you’ve had a chance by yourself to unwind, explore the city’s streets and soak up its rich history, stunning architecture, and diverse offerings.

Ninh Binh, a province in northern Vietnam, is renowned for its stunning landscapes of limestone karsts, rice paddies, and serene waterways.

  • Begin your day with a guided excursion to Hoa Lu, a journey of approximately 2.5 hours from Hanoi. Delve into the breathtaking vistas and captivating scenery of Ninh Binh Province. 
  • Here, you’ll witness the captivating splendor of the Dinh Dynasty temples. 
  • We drive to Tam Coc 
  • Savor your meal before embarking on a mesmerizing boat trip through Tam Coc, where you’ll be spellbound by the stunning karst formations. Alternatively, you can opt for a leisurely cycle ride through quaint villages, verdant rice paddies, and tranquil rivers for an hour.
  • At around 5 PM, our driver will transport you back to your hotel in Hanoi, concluding your unforgettable adventure in Ninh Binh Province.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam, is a stunning natural wonderland with over 1,600 limestone islands and islets in emerald waters. Legend has it that a dragon descended from the heavens and spit out jewels that formed the islands, earning the bay its name, “Descending Dragon.” 

Breakfast at hotel.

  • Our shuttle bus of cruise will come to pick you up at your hotel from 8h20 – 9h00 for 2.5 hours bus ride through the country side of the Red River Delta to Ha Long City. 
  • Get on our cruise to enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
  • Spend six hours cruising through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay.
  • Savor a delectable seafood lunch (vegetarian option available with prior notice) while sailing amidst thousands of islets.
  • Relax and soak up the sun on board.
  • Explore a magnificent limestone cave embellished with stunning stalactites and stalagmites via bamboo boat.
  • Our waiting vehicle transfers you back to Hanoi. Free for transfer back on new highway express road. Trip ends at your hotel around 20h30pm.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Start your day with the option to practice Tai Chi during the early hours or indulge in a leisurely breakfast. 

Following your meal, you’ll embark on a boat ride back to the main harbor, taking in the sights of the Limestone Cave en route. 

Drive back to Hanoi (2,5 hours driving).

Afterward, you’ll check in your hotel in Hanoi

Overnight in Hanoi.

Sapa, nestled in the misty mountains of Vietnam, offers breathtaking scenery of terraced rice paddies and colorful hill tribe villages.

Have breakfast at your hotel.

  • 6:15-06:45 AM: Sharing bus will collect you from your hotel and depart towards Sapa for 5,5 hours driving.
  • During the journey, you’ll have the chance to admire the stunning landscapes of the northwest mountains, with their terraced fields shimmering in the sunlight or cloaked in thick fog.
  • Arrival in Sapa. Check in hotel.
  • Afternoon: Our local guide in Sapa will meet you and take you on a tour. Begin by exploring the bustling Sapa market before leaving the town behind and descending a winding road to Cat Cat Village.
  • Finally, you’ll arrive at Y Linh Ho village, home to the Black Hmong minority. 

Spend the evening relaxing and overnight in Sapa.

After breakfast, 

  • We embark on a journey to Silver Waterfall, situated approximately 30 minutes from Sapa town. This stunning waterfall is nestled within the lush forests of Hoang Lien National Park and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. We recommend stopping by a nearby farm to enjoy a cup of tea and learn about the local way of life.
  • Next, we ascend to the Heavens Gate, the highest stretch of road in Vietnam and the provincial border of Lao Cai and Lai Chau provinces. The panoramic view from this vantage point is truly awe-inspiring.

Optional: For an additional fee, we suggest taking a cable car to Fansipan Mountain, the highest point in Indochina. This world-renowned cable car boasts a length of over 7 kilometers and a height of 3,143 meters above sea level. The stunning scenery of lush greenery and subtropical vegetation makes this mountain a true wonder to behold. Capture some unforgettable memories with photographs from the summit before descending back to Sapa by cable car (ticket price: from $34 USD per person).

 

  • Then we start trekking. The first part is on the road but we soon turn to the right and walk on a small path down the valley to the Muong Hoa River and from here to the Black H’mong village Lao Chai. Black H’mong is one of the biggest minority groups in the Sapa area. They are proud of their culture and keep their traditions and way of living. They have their own language and wear traditional indigio blue clothing. 
  • After this you continue to Ta Van village (1.200 m) to visit Zay people. Zay is a fairly small minority group of about 38.000 people who live mainly in the mountains in Northwest Vietnam. The development has meant that some of their old customs have been lost but many women still wear traditional shirts with a purple, blue or green color. The Zay houses are build of wood and bamboo with a clay floor. 

Overnight in Sapa.

After breakfast, the trekking expedition commences, veering off the main road onto winding mountain trails. The scenery is awash with verdant vegetation, pine forests, and fresh air. You’ll experience the pristine beauty of the area as you embark on this journey. 

  • Matra village , a newly added location in a series of villages in Sapa, is approximately 5 kilometers from the town of Sapa. With around 50 households inhabited solely by H’Mong people, this village has restored traditional flax weaving looms, forged tools, and carved silver as part of tourism. 
  • After Matra village, you’ll arrive at Taphin village, home to both Red Dao and H’mong ethnicities. The culture in this village is vibrant and colorful due to the mix of ethnicities. 
  • Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the unique caves in the Taphin area. These small and winding caves lead in various directions but eventually converge into one point. The village also features an old monastery constructed during the French colonial period. 

.Around 13:30 – 14:00 Pick up time by luxury bus driver to drive back to Hanoi following Noi Bai – Lao Cai high–way. Along the way, you will have chance to contemplate the beauty of northwest mountains that terraced fields are sparkling in sunlight or dim in thick fog. 

Arrive in Hanoi around 21:00. Overnight in Hanoi.

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a bustling city filled with ancient temples, narrow streets, and delicious street food.

After your breakfast, we will pick up for the Hanoi city in the morning.

  • Visit Ho Chi Minh Complex including his former stilt–house residence, the Presidential Palace and the Ho Chi Minh Museum, One Pillar Pagoda. 
  • Then, you’ll proceed to West Lake, the largest lake of Hanoi Capital with a shoreline of 17 kilometers. 
  • Visit Quan Thanh Temple – a historic site that dates back to the 13th century and Tran Quoc Pagoda – a Buddhist temple that was established in the 6th century and is known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning architecture.
  • Afterward, you’ll have some free time to shop at Dong Xuan Market, one of the largest old markets in Hanoi with variety of souvenirs and traditional Vietnamese goods.

Then drive to the airport for flight to Dong Hoi. Upon arrival, we will pick up and transfer you to hotel. 

Overnight in Dong Hoi.

 

Nestled in the heart of Quang Binh province, Dong Hoi is a charming coastal town known for its pristine beaches and breathtaking caves, most notably Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave, the famous Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, home to some of the world’s largest and most beautiful caves, makes it an ideal base for exploring this natural wonderland.

Commencing your excursion, our car and guide will collect you from your hotel after your breakfast. 

Initially, you will be taken to Paradise Cave, the longest dry cave in Asia, situated within the core zone of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, approximately 25 kilometers from Phong Nha Cave. 

Afterwards, you will indulge in a delectable lunch at a local eatery. Then, you will embark on a journey to explore Phong Nha Cave, which lasts for around two hours after a 25-minute boat ride. 

Lastly, you will return to your hotel. 

Overnight in Dong Hoi.

Begin the day with breakfast at the hotel, followed by a drive to Hue. En route, make stops to explore Vinh Moc underground tunnel, a well-known site from the Vietnam War, as well as Ben Hai River and Hien Luong Bridge, both situated in the former demilitarized zone. Upon arrival in Hue, check into the accommodation and unwind for the evening. Overnight stay in Hue

Hue, once the imperial capital of Vietnam, is a city steeped in history and culture. Nestled on the banks of the Perfume River, Hue’s serene beauty is matched only by its rich heritage. Whether exploring its ancient past or savoring its modern delights, Hue is a destination that captivates visitors with its timeless charm.

Breakfast at hotel.

  • Start our morning with two unmissable landmarks in Hue the enchanting Thien Mu Pagoda, which now serves as a symbol of the city, and the ornate tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh. 
  • We will do so on a guided cruise along the Perfume River, which not only allows us to appreciate the scenic countryside but also provides a delightful experience. 
  • Our itinerary also includes a visit to the tranquil mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang, surrounded by serene gardens and lakes. 
  • After an impressive boat trip, we return to the town. 
  • Our sightseeing tour takes us through the vast citadel, home to the Imperial City and the Purple Forbidden City. Although much of this royal residence was destroyed during the 1968 Tet Offensive, it is still captivating to walk among the ruins. 
  • We will also enjoy a leisurely stroll to the bustling Dong Ba Market, where an array of local goods and handicrafts are sold, pass by numerous tempting eating spots, perfect for sampling some delicious local cuisine. 
  • We will then return to our hotel and unwind for the night.

Overnight in Hue.

In the morning, enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Afterward, depart for Hoi An by driving for 3 hours along the stunning Hai Van Pass. En route, take a break at Lang Co Beach to admire the breathtaking views. 

Upon arrival in Da Nang, we continue departing to Ba Na Hills.

  • Arrival at Suoi Mo cable car station, where we’ll board the cable car route that holds four world records.
  • Check-in at the 150-meter long “Golden Bridge” supported by giant hands. 
  • We’ll then visit Le Jardin, Debay Wine Cellar of French, and Linh Ung pagoda to admire the 27m high Buddha statue, Loc Uyen Garden, and Quan Am Cac. 
  • Ascending to the summit of Chua Mountain, which stands at a height of 1,487 meters, and visiting Ba Chua Thuong Ngan Temple. We’ll also enjoy the stunning panoramic view of Da Nang City.

Then, we drive to Hoi An, check into the hotel and unwind. Overnight in Hoi An

Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam, enchants visitors with its well-preserved ancient architecture and vibrant cultural heritage.

In the morning, we will collect you from your hotel to Hoi An ancient town. 

  • Begin your day by exploring the area on foot, visiting notable landmarks such as Chua Cau, or the Japanese Covered Bridge, which is considered a symbol of Hoi An and showcases Japanese architecture at its finest. 
  • Next, delve into the Chinese street, where you’ll see stunning examples of Hoian’s original architecture, including Phuc Kien Hall and Phung Hung old house. 
  • Continue your journey by visiting the vibrant market and ancient port to witness the daily rhythm of local life and experience the true flavor and taste of the oriental. 
  • Finally, visit Phuc Thanh Pagoda, which is over 500 years old and was built by a Chinese bonze. 
  • Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling specialties such as Cao Lau noodle and White Rose dumpling. 

In the afternoon, embark on a boat trip along the Thu Bon River. 

  • Along the way, stop at two handicraft villages nestled on the riverbanks: Thanh Ha pottery village and Kim Bong carpentry village, both renowned for their high-quality handicraft products. 
  • At the end of the day, transfer back to your hotel to relax.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Today, you are free to explore the charming streets of Hoi An on your own. Spend the rest of the day wandering around the narrow alleys, admiring the colorful lanterns, and indulging in delicious local cuisine. 

Overnight in Hoi An

After your breakfast, then drive to the airport for afternoon flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, we will pick up and transfer you to hotel. 

Spend the rest of the day exploring the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City by yourself, admiring its captivating history, remarkable architecture, and diverse offerings.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

After your breakfast, our guide will collect you and transport you to:

  • The Cu Chi Tunnels, which are located approximately 75 kilometers from the city center. Upon arrival, you will watch a documentary film, followed by a chance to view handmade weapon displays, including guns, landmines, and bamboo traps. You will then have the opportunity to explore the actual tunnels. 

Afterward, we will return to Saigon. 

In the afternoon, we will visit several notable sites in the city such as:

  • The Former Presidential Palace
  • The War Crime Museum
  • The stunning Notre Dame Cathedral, the City Hall, the Municipal Theater, and Ben Thanh market. 

Afterward, we drive to hotel and relax. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

  • 08:00 Leave Ho Chi Minh city, enjoy the scenic journey along the National Highway bordered by green rice fields. 
  • Stop on the way to visit Vinh Trang pagoda.
  • On arrived at My Tho, take a leisurely boat ride along the river, view stilt houses, fruit plantations and fishing villages along the river bank. 
  • Proceed to Tortoise islet, have lunch in the orchard garden. 
  • Then a boat ride to An Khanh – a less touristy attraction in Ben Tre, enjoy cruising on a hand–rowed sampan under the shade of the water coconut trees along natural canals. 
  • Have a short cycling tour then enjoy seasonal fruit & honey tea to the sound of “Southern Vietnamese folk music”, performed by the locals. 
  • Visit a family business which epitomizes the idyllic rural lifestyle, taste delicious coconut candy & observe the pastoral life as you roam through fruit plantations and villages. 
  • Then drive to Can Tho. Check in on arrival. Free for your evening. Overnight in Can Tho.

Can Tho, a city in southern Vietnam, is known for its vibrant floating markets and lush Mekong Delta scenery.

  • Embark on a tranquil boat journey to discover the enchanting waterways of the Lower Mekong river’s tributaries, also known as the Bassac River. 
  • Afterward, make your way to the bustling Cai Rang floating markets, renowned as the most vibrant in the region.
  • Curious about Vietnamese vermicelli soup? Come witness its creation! 
  • Following this, explore the village and interact with the hospitable locals. Learn how to cross a unique “Monkey bridge,” constructed solely from bamboo stems. 

Enjoy a delicious lunch before returning to Ho Chi Minh City. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Breakfast at hotel. Then we will transfer you to the airport for your flight. Farewell and see you next time!

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    Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

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