A 13-day journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, featuring a Halong Bay cruise, a rural homestay in Pu Luong, and visits to historical cities
Highlights
Ancient Hanoi tours, street food walk, Rural Mai Chau, Local life in Pu Luong, Halong Bay overnight junk boat cruise, perfume river in Hue, colonial Hoi An, boat trip and overnight eco-lodge on the Mekong Delta
Itinerary
After arriving at the airport, the Vietnam tour starts with a tour guide meeting you and transferring you to your hotel in Hanoi. They'll give you some initial introductions to the country and Hanoi during the drive to the hotel, help you settle in and schedule a pick-up time for the next day.
You can decide this evening whether to join the visit to Hoan Kiem Lake to watch or join in with the local's early morning Tai Chi exercise.
OVERNIGHT:
Hanoi hotel
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
Single room supplement (VESGVE)
Extra day in Hanoi - pre-tour
We'll begin with a scenic 3.5-hour drive to Mai Chau. The journey offers beautiful views of the countryside, passing fields of tapioca, sugar cane, and lush rice paddies.
Upon arrival, we'll enjoy a traditional lunch in a Thai stilt house. Afterwards, we'll take a leisurely walk through the local village to see more of these unique homes, which are a central part of Thai culture. They are designed to be airy, comfortable, and safe, providing a truly peaceful atmosphere. The clean air and relaxed pace of life here are perfect for unwinding and escaping the daily grind.
At approximately 3pm, we will transfer to the Pu Luong Nature Reserve. The route takes us over a stunning mountain pass, offering a panoramic view of the whole valley below. We'll arrive at our accommodation with plenty of time to settle in before dinner.
You will have a delicious dinner and then some free time to explore the beautiful retreat. You'll love the captivating views and tranquil setting.
You'll spend the night in a Pu Luong homestay, an authentic, communal experience. These traditional stilt houses are set amidst the stunning scenery, offering a chance to stay in the heart of the reserve. You will share a room with other guests, each with a separate mattress and blanket, providing a real taste of local life and hospitality.
OVERNIGHT:
Pu Luong Homestay
MEALS:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
We'll begin with a short drive from the retreat to Dong Dien village, the gateway to the most beautiful valley in Pu Luong. From here, we'll start a trek on a winding trail, where you can admire the vast terraced fields. If you visit during the rice season, you'll be treated to a spectacular view of the iridescent, golden rice paddies set against the majestic mountains.
The trail leads to Kho Muong village, often called the "Hidden Village" because it's nestled in a small, forested valley surrounded by high mountains. Inhabited by over 50 households, the villagers here have maintained their traditional culture for generations. We will have lunch with a local Thai family in the village.
After lunch, our trek continues. We'll follow a scenic trail out of Kho Muong towards Bang village, navigating a hidden path alongside the terraced rice fields before returning to your accommodation.
You'll spend the night back at your homestay, your home away from home in the Pu Luong Reserve.
Please note: This trekking itinerary may be subject to change depending on the weather and customer requirements. Trekking will be 8-10km.
OVERNIGHT:
Pu Luong Homestay
MEALS:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
Today, you'll be leaving the serene valleys of Pu Luong and heading back to the bustling city of Hanoi. After a final breakfast surrounded by the peaceful, terraced fields, your journey will begin.
The drive back to Hanoi typically takes around four to five hours depending on traffic and any stops along the way. The route will see you transition from the rural landscapes and limestone karsts you've become accustomed to, back towards the urban sprawl. This is a good opportunity to reflect on your time in Pu Luong, perhaps reminiscing about the trekking, the local culture, or simply the quiet moments spent amidst nature.
As you get closer to Hanoi, the scenery will change from open fields and small villages to increasingly developed areas. The roads will get busier and the sounds of the countryside will be replaced by the constant hum of traffic. You can expect to arrive in the city in the early afternoon, giving you a chance to settle into your accommodation before deciding how to spend your evening.
OVERNIGHT:
Hanoi hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
None
Your day begins with a cultural exploration of Hanoi's most significant landmarks. First, we'll visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, followed by the unique One Pillar Pagoda and the impressive Presidential Palace. Afterwards, we'll journey back in time to an 11th-century relic before heading to the Temple of Literature, a place built to honour the Chinese scholar Confucius.
In the afternoon, prepare for a culinary adventure in Hanoi's Old Quarter. We'll wander through the narrow streets, discovering and tasting a huge variety of authentic street food. You'll also have the chance to try some of the local brews, with some recipes tracing their origins back to Eastern Europe.
Next, we'll make a stop at Hanoi Train Street for a cup of egg coffee. This narrow train bypass is a sight to behold, with trains passing just inches from the buildings that line the tracks several times a day.
For dinner, we'll eat at the KOTO Van Mieu restaurant. This isn't just a meal; it's an opportunity to support a great cause. The KOTO Foundation runs a vocational training program for disadvantaged young people in Vietnam, providing them with the theoretical and practical skills needed for a career in the hospitality industry, from cooking to front-of-house service and management.
OVERNIGHT:
Hanoi hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
Leave the bustling city of Hanoi behind and travel by road through the scenic Red River Delta to the breathtaking Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This picturesque drive offers a glimpse into the rural landscapes of Vietnam before you arrive at your destination.
Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed aboard your boat with a refreshing drink. As you settle in, a delicious lunch of freshly caught seafood will be served, giving you a taste of the region's culinary delights while you sail out into the bay. You'll pass by incredible limestone karsts, each with its own unique shape and story.
Later in the day, if the weather is clear, you'll have the option to take on a challenge: a 400-step climb up a mountain. The effort is well worth it, as the summit provides a spectacular panoramic view of the bay and a perfect vantage point to watch the sun set over the water, creating a truly unforgettable moment.
Please note: The cruise itinerary is subject to change due to weather conditions and other operational factors.
OVERNIGHT:
Halong Bay junk boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
Start your final day on the bay with an invigorating session of Tai Chi on the sundeck as the sun rises, or if you prefer, join a 'photo hunt' to capture the bay's stunning early morning light. After working up an appetite, a delicious breakfast will be served on board.
Next, you'll get to explore Luon Cave by kayak. This unique, arc-shaped cave is only accessible by small boat or kayak due to its low height. Paddling through the cave offers an intimate and serene experience. Afterwards, you'll return to the boat to freshen up before the cruise continues, taking you past fascinating sights such as the Ba Hang fishing village and Dog Islet.
As the boat makes its way back to the harbour, you'll have the opportunity to participate in an onboard cooking class. Learn to prepare some traditional Vietnamese dishes before sitting down to enjoy them for lunch.
After lunch, you'll reluctantly disembark from the cruise and travel back to Hanoi. In the afternoon, you'll have some free time to relax or explore, with a day-use hotel room available from 3 pm to 6 pm for you to freshen up before your next adventure.
In the evening, you'll head to the station to board the Reunification Express sleeper train for an overnight journey south to Hue. The train, named SE3, is scheduled to depart at 7:25 pm and arrive the next day at 8:35 am. You will be in a shared, air-conditioned cabin with four beds and a shared toilet.
Please be aware that there will be no tour guide on the train and that meals are not included in your ticket, so you should either prepare your own food beforehand or purchase a meal directly from the train crew.
OVERNIGHT:
Overnight Sleeper Train
MEALS:
Breakfast, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
Wake up this morning to the picturesque sight of Vietnam's countryside. As the train travels south, you'll see a landscape of lush green rice paddies, attended by farmers and their water buffalo, interspersed with small villages and rural farmland. This is a perfect introduction to the serene beauty of central Vietnam.
Upon arrival in Hue, you'll transfer to your hotel and have some time to settle in. Afterwards, you will embark on a private tour of this historically and culturally rich city and its ancient temples. Hue served as the imperial capital of Vietnam for over 140 years, and its legacy is visible in the city's architecture and atmosphere.
The day's main focus will be exploring the Citadel, a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site. This vast walled fortress was once the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty and is a testament to Vietnam's imperial past. Inside, you'll wander through its grand palaces, ornate temples, and intricate courtyards, learning about the history that shaped the nation.
In the afternoon, you will board a traditional Dragon boat for a tranquil cruise along the famous Perfume River. The peaceful journey will offer a unique perspective of the city's riverside life and landscape. The journey will include a stop at the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a beautiful seven-storey pagoda overlooking the river, which is one of the city's most important religious sites.
After a day filled with history and culture, you'll spend the night in Hue, ready for more adventures tomorrow.
OVERNIGHT:
Hue hotel
MEALS:
Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
Today we'll travel south along a beautiful stretch of Vietnam's coastline, crossing the breathtaking Hai Van Pass on a scenic journey to the charming riverside town of Hoi An. This picturesque community, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, was once a thriving international commercial port from the 16th to 18th centuries, attracting merchants from China, the Netherlands, France, Japan, Portugal, and Arab countries. The blend of cultures is still very much alive in its architecture and atmosphere.
We'll begin with a walking tour of Hoi An's captivating Ancient Town, where we'll explore its rich history and beautiful buildings. The tour will include a visit to a Family Chapel, a significant space for ancestor worship built by influential local families. We'll also see a Chinese-style Pagoda or an Assembly Hall, which served as community hubs for different ethnic groups. One of the town's most famous landmarks is the Japanese Covered Bridge Pagoda, which was built in 1593 by the Japanese community to connect the town with the Chinese Quarter across the stream.
Additionally, we'll visit the Fukien Association Temple, the Ceramic Museum, and the Chua Ong Temple. Each of these sites offers a unique insight into the town's diverse cultural influences and history. In the afternoon, we'll take part in a lantern-making workshop at a local venue, learning the traditional craft. As the sun sets, we'll head to the Hoai River to release our handmade lanterns, a beautiful and memorable experience.
OVERNIGHT:
Hoi An hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
None
Hoi An is a truly captivating town, so much so that many visitors find themselves returning time and again. Today is left free for you to explore at your leisure, allowing you to delve deeper into its charming streets and vibrant culture at your own pace. There are many options available for a day of independent discovery.
One popular choice is to take a cooking class at the nearby Tra Que Vegetable Village. This provides a unique, hands-on experience where you can learn about the traditional, organic farming methods used by the villagers to cultivate a wide variety of herbs and vegetables. You'll get to see the gardens, work alongside the local farmers, and then use the fresh ingredients to prepare authentic Vietnamese dishes in a cooking class.
In the afternoon, you will be transferred to Da Nang airport for a short flight to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. The journey from Hoi An to Da Nang airport takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on traffic. You'll then board your flight south, marking the end of your time in central Vietnam and the beginning of your southern adventure.
OVERNIGHT:
Ho Chi Minh City hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
Cooking class at Tra Que village
Today, you'll leave Ho Chi Minh City for a scenic drive to Cai Be. Upon arrival, you'll board a motorised boat to begin your exploration of the Mekong Delta. Your first stop will be a local family's home, where you'll learn about the traditional process of making rice paper and popcorn cakes. This is a chance to chat with the family and learn about their daily life.
Next, we'll visit the bustling Cai Be Floating Market to witness the unique way goods are traded on the water. We'll then head to a local craft village that specialises in making rice candy. Here, you can see how these sweet nuggets are produced and even try some freshly made samples. Afterwards, we'll visit a local bee farm run by Uncle Tu Dang, who will explain the beekeeping process and the different types of bees. You'll also be offered a cup of honey tea to enjoy with him.
The journey continues to Tan Phong Island, where you'll experience authentic garden tourism. You'll get to walk through fruit orchards, seeing seasonal specialities such as durian, rambutan, longan, and jackfruit. At Uncle 5 On's house, you'll be welcomed with a cup of tea and fresh fruit while listening to traditional folk music performed by local artists.
Following this, you'll board a small rowing boat for a serene trip through the narrow canals around Tan Phong Island, which will take you to your accommodation at Mekong Ecolodge. After checking in and having lunch, you can stroll through the beautiful gardens, picking and eating fresh fruit for free.
Later in the afternoon, you'll take part in a 'ditch slapping' activity to catch fish and collect vegetables from the garden. These fresh ingredients will then be used in a cooking class with the chef at the lodge, where you'll help prepare your own dinner. It's a fantastic hands-on experience that connects you with the local way of life.
OVERNIGHT:
Mekong Delta eco-lodge
MEALS:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
After a light breakfast at the homestay, you'll grab a bicycle to begin a day of exploration and local activities on Tan Phong Island. Your first stop is at 'Sister 3's' home to see how traditional rice paper rolls are made. You'll then visit 'Aunt 4's' house to watch her expertly weave hammocks from banana rope.
Next, you'll head to Ms Thao's house, where you can learn the craft of weaving water hyacinths. With her guidance, you'll have the chance to weave your own beautiful gift to take home. From there, you'll visit Ms Hieu's home to see how she creates nail files from bamboo sticks, a great example of using locally available materials.
Saying goodbye to Ms Hieu, you'll cycle back to the Ecolodge for a cooking class with Ms Tam. You'll learn to make a local specialty of Tan Phong Island: jackfruit leaf cake. After preparing the cakes, you'll get to enjoy them together.
At midday, you'll experience a short but authentic journey on the Tan Phong ferry with the locals to the Hiep Duc ferry. Once there, a car will be waiting to transfer you back to Ho Chi Minh City, marking the end of your time in the Mekong Delta.
OVERNIGHT:
Ho Chi Minh City hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
None
The last day leaves you with free time to relax before we include a departure transfer to the airport for you to catch your flight back home. Additional options are also available today if you have a late afternoon or evening flight, or if you'd like to add some extra nights.
OVERNIGHT:
N/A
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
Cambodia Extension
Extra day in Ho Chi Minh - post-tour
Half-day city tour
Cu Chi Tunnels tour
included with
All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
All transport and transfers
24-hour airport arrival & departure transfer service
Services of a local tour guide during sightseeing and activities
Admission fees
Meals as indicated in the itinerary
Internal Flight from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh
Rural Mai Chau/Pu Luong homestay experience
Street Food Tour in Hanoi
Halong Bay Experience
Perfume River Cruise
Lantern Making and releasing
Mekong Delta Local Life immersive experience
excluded by
International flights (available on request)
Visas fees (Currently waived for GB and some other nationals. We can arrange a Visa Approval letter to enable other nationalities to obtain their visa on arrival - see your Tour Notes for details)
Travel insurance (compulsory, available on request)
Meals not indicated in the itinerary
Drinks, snacks, tips and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)
Tips for tour guides and drivers
Any other items not mentioned above
Extras /
Upgrades
Single room supplement
Extra night pre-tour in Hanoi
Extra night post-tour in Ho Chi Minh City
Detailed Description
Welcome to Vietnam, a country that pulses with life, from the timeless traditions of the northern highlands to the bustling energy of the southern cities. This unique tour invites you to step beyond the well-trodden paths and immerse yourself in the authentic heart of the nation. From the moment you arrive in Hanoi, you'll be greeted with a blend of historical grandeur and vibrant street life, setting the stage for the captivating experiences that lie ahead.
Your adventure truly begins as you leave the urban landscape behind and journey into the serene beauty of the Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Here, you'll find a different rhythm of life, defined by peaceful, terraced rice paddies and the gentle pace of the local Thai ethnic community. This is more than a scenic stay; it's an opportunity for genuine cultural immersion. You will sleep in a traditional stilt house, sharing a communal space with fellow travellers, and wake up to the stunning views of the 'hidden village' of Kho Muong. The days are filled with invigorating treks through the verdant landscape, and the evenings are spent sharing stories over a delicious, home-cooked meal.
As the tour progresses, you'll be treated to a stunning contrast of experiences. The tranquil landscapes of Pu Luong give way to the legendary beauty of Ha Long Bay, where you'll cruise among thousands of limestone karsts, and even ascend a mountain for a panoramic sunset view. Next, you will travel south by overnight train, waking to the sight of lush green fields and water buffalo before arriving in the imperial city of Hue. Here, history comes alive in the magnificent Citadel and a peaceful cruise along the Perfume River. The journey continues to the charming, lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can lose yourself in its rich, multicultural history and even learn to make your own souvenir. Finally, you will explore the vibrant and bustling Ho Chi Minh City, with a memorable journey into the rich agricultural heart of the Mekong Delta, where you'll participate in hands-on activities, from making rice paper to fishing, connecting you directly with local life.
This tour is crafted for those who seek more than just sightseeing. It's for the traveller who wants to engage, to learn, and to connect. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the quiet corners of the Mekong Delta, you will discover the rich tapestry of Vietnamese life, culture, and cuisine, creating memories that will last a lifetime. The itinerary's varied accommodation reflects its diverse experiences. Throughout your journey, you will enjoy the comfort and amenities of 4-star hotels in the major cities of Hanoi, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh City. In contrast, your overnight stays in Pu Luong and the Mekong Delta will be in more traditional, rural settings, providing an authentic taste of local life. The tour also includes the unique and unforgettable experience of spending a night aboard a traditional junk boat as you cruise through the spectacular waters of Ha Long Bay
