Trip Length: 16 days|Trip Code: TAGVC114|Trip Style: Group tours|Trip Theme: Explore|Physical Rating: *****|Start/End Cities: Hanoi / Ho Chi Minh City|Trip Price: Upon request

Places visited: Hanoi - Binh Lieu - Ha Long Bay - Hue - Hoi An - Ninh Chu - Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnel - Ben Tre

This 16-day journey invites you to explore both iconic landmarks and off-the-beaten-path treasures, providing a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Start in Hanoi, where you'll visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and explore the vibrant Old Quarter. Then, head to Binh Lieu, a stunning mountain destination where you’ll trek through breathtaking landscapes, meet local hill tribes, and experience first-hand local unique traditions. Next, cruise through Halong Bay’s emerald waters, passing towering limestone islands, before heading to Hue. Explore the ancient Imperial City, visit royal monuments, and discover the region’s rich history. Continue to Hoi An, a charming town full of history and character. Train ride to Thap Cham, where you can unwind by the sea, enjoy water activities at Ninh Chu Beach. Venture south to Ho Chi Minh City, where you'll experience a dynamic blend of history and modernity. Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels and finally, finish your journey with a peaceful cruise through the Mekong Delta, where lush orchards, rice paddies, and picturesque villages await. This tour offers the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation, showcasing Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and vibrant cities.

OVERVIEW

Highlights

  • Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter with its lively streets and cozy cafés.
  • Trek Binh Lieu’s stunning mountains and terraces, meeting hilltribes.
  • Cruise Ha Long Bay, admiring the towering limestone karsts.
  • Spend the night aboard, surrounded by Ha Long Bay’s beauty.
  • Visit Hue’s Imperial City, exploring ancient palaces and royal tombs.
  • Stroll through Hoi An’s charming Ancient Town.
  • Relax on the peaceful shores of Ninh Chu Beach.
  • Take a cyclo ride through Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant streets.
  • Cruise the Mekong River, discovering lush orchards and river life.

Trip summary


  • Days 1-2: Hanoi
    • Immerse yourself in the lively energy of Hanoi. Explore the historical landmarks, bustling Old Quarter, and experience the city’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Days 3-4: Binh Lieu hill tribe trek
    • Trek along mountain trails through terraced fields, cinnamon and anise farms, and primitive jungles. Meet the local hill tribes and experience their unique way of life.
  • Days 5-6: Halong bay cruise
    • Cruise through the stunning limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay. Explore caves, marvel at the scenery, and enjoy an overnight stay on board, under a starry sky.
  • Day 7: Hue City
    • Explore Hue’s ancient Imperial City, home to royal palaces and tombs. Visit the historic Citadel, the peaceful Thien Mu Pagoda, and other significant cultural landmarks.
  • Days 8-10: Hoi An
    • Wander through the charming streets of Hoi An Ancient Town, where colorful lanterns light up the night. Immerse yourself in the town's rich history and charming atmosphere.
  • Days 11-12: Ninh Chu beach
    • Unwind on the serene beaches of Ninh Chu. Soak up the sun, enjoy the clear waters, and relax in a peaceful coastal setting.
  • Days 13-14: Ho Chi Minh City
    • Discover iconic landmarks, colonial architecture, and the buzzing streets. Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground network used during the Vietnam War. Learn about the history, strategy, and resilience of the local people.
  • Day 15: Mekong Delta explore
    • Cruise the Mekong Delta, passing lush orchards and traditional villages. Engage with local life and savor fresh tropical flavors.
  • Day 16: Ho Chi Minh City - Departure
    • Take in your last moments in the city before heading to the airport for your return flight.
 

What's included in this trip?

Meal included
13 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 3 Dinner
Transportation
Bus, Boats, Overnight trains
Accommodation
Hotel (9 nights), Farm stay (2 nights) Overnight boat (1 night), Overnight train (3 nights)
Included activities
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, Hanoi Old Quarter, Binh Lieu terrace & jungle trek, Farmstay in traditional rammed earth house, Halong Bay cruise, Halong Bay kayaking & swimming, Halong natural cave explore, Halong boat rowing, Overnight boat stay, Hue Royal Citadel visit, Hoi An ancient town walking tour; Ninh Chu beach relax, Cyclo tour Saigon - Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi Tunnels explore, Mekong River boat cruise, Motorcart ride Mekong villages, Mekong boat rowing
Tour does not include
Visa, International flights in and out of the country, Laundry, Personal expenditures, Travel Insurance, Tips, Other than mentioned in the trip notes & itinerary

Is this trip for you?

Trip style
Comfort
Duration
16 days
Physical demand
phisycal rating
Price
US$
 

Itinerary Details

Xin Chao! Welcome to Vietnam!
Upon your arrival at the airport, you will be greeted by our friendly representative who will assist with your transfer to your hotel in the heart of the city.
Hanoi, Vietnam's vibrant capital, is a blend of history, culture, and modern life. The city's lively atmosphere, filled with sounds and sights, makes it one of the most dynamic destinations in Asia. During your free time today, we suggest a stroll through the Old Quarter, where you'll find narrow streets full of life, local shops, and historical buildings. You can also visit the Ngoc Son Temple on Hoan Kiem Lake or catch a Water Puppet Show, a unique cultural performance highlighting Vietnam’s rural tradition.
Food lovers will find Hanoi a delight. Sample some of Vietnam’s best-known dishes like “Pho”, the beloved “Banh mi” sandwich, and the famous egg coffee. The city's street food scene is buzzing with options, offering a variety of authentic and mouthwatering flavors.
At 6:00 PM, you will have a group meeting with your tour guide to complete some procedures and receive briefing about the upcoming days of your tour. Following the meeting, you can join your fellow travelers for dinner and enjoy some fun activities together.

Accommodation

  • Hotel in Hanoi

Meals included

No meal included on this day

Special notes

Hotel check-in time is from 14:00. If you arrive earlier and wish to access your room before that time, you can book pre-trip accommodation when making your reservation, or let us know in advance so we can arrange it for you.
The group meeting scheduled for today is of great importance. During this meeting, you will complete essential local travel procedures, have the opportunity to meet your fellow travelers, and receive detailed guidance for the upcoming days of your tour. If, for any reason, you are unable to attend the meeting, please inform your travel agent or the hotel reception. You can also check with the hotel reception or look for a notice in the lobby for the meeting location.

For early risers, Hanoi’s parks and lakes offer a great opportunity to join locals for morning exercises. Experience the city's vibrant energy by participating in Tai Chi, aerobics, traditional dance, or even a friendly game of badminton. You might also receive a complimentary back-flapping massage from welcoming locals - a fun and unique experience!
After breakfast, embark on a guided half-day tour of Hanoi’s cultural and historical highlights. The itinerary includes a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Memorial Complex, which houses the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Presidential Palace, Uncle Ho’s humble stilt house, and the Ho Chi Minh Museum. Within the complex, the One Pillar Pagoda, a nearly 1,000-year-old symbol of Hanoi, stands gracefully on a single stone pillar amid a peaceful garden.
Next, explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university, established in 1076. Admire its elegant traditional architecture and stroll through serene courtyards lined with ancient stone stelae inscribed with the names of past scholars.
The afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace. Wander through the lively Old Quarter, shop for souvenirs, or relax at a local café. For those seeking a deeper cultural experience, optional activities include a Hanoi cooking class or a motorbike food tour, perfect for discovering the city's vibrant street food scene.

Included activities

  • Hanoi sightseeing tour

Meals included

  • Breakfast

Accommodation

  • Hotel in Hanoi

Optional activities

- Cooking class: US$ 35
- Water puppet show: US$ 4

After breakfast, leave Hanoi behind and journey along the scenic highway to Binh Liêu, a tranquil gem nestled in Northern Vietnam. This remote mountain district is home to ethnic groups such as the Tay, Dao, and San Chi.
Upon arrival, enjoy a local lunch before heading to Song Mooc village, home to the high-hat Dao minority. The villagers are known for their warm hospitality, eager to share their traditions and way of life. As you wander through the village, you'll have the chance to visit local homes, where artisans skillfully craft intricate textiles and traditional handicrafts. Interacting with the villagers will offer you insights into their rich heritage and the traditions that shape their daily lives.
Next, embark on a scenic trek through the terraced fields of Song Mooc. As you walk along the winding paths, take in the breathtaking views of lush, rolling hills and rice terraces that stretch across the landscape. Along the way, stop to interact with the local farmers, and learn about traditional agricultural practices that have been passed down through the generations.
After the trek, head to Khe Tien village, where you will check in for the night in a traditional rammed-earth farmhouse. In the evening, enjoy a delicious home-cooked dinner made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, complimented by homemade rice whiskey. Afterward, sit down with your hosts for a warm conversation, learning about their daily routines, traditions, and the stories that shape their lives. Finally, settle in for a restful night in the cozy, peaceful surroundings of your farm stay.

Included activities

  • Binh Lieu hill tribe trek & farm stay

Meals included

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Accommodation

  • Farm stay comfort rammed earth house

Awake to the tranquil sounds of nature as the sun rises over Khe Tiền. After breakfast, begin your trek along pristine trails, meandering through anise and cinnamon farms, terraced fields and tropical jungle toward the stunning Song Mooc Waterfall, a hidden gem surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Along the way, discover the diverse flora and fauna of the tropical forest, learning how the local communities have lived in harmony with nature for generations.
Return to your farm stay for lunch, and spend the rest of the day joining your local hosts in farming activities, such as tending to vegetable gardens, caring for rice fields, or venturing into the nearby jungle to collect herbal medicine. Alternatively, you can simply relax with a refreshing swim in the nearby stream.br /> End your day with a delicious dinner and a restful night in a cozy, traditional rammed-earth farmhouse.

Included activities

  • Binh Lieu hill tribe trek & farm stay

Included meals

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Acommodation

  • Farm stay comfort rammed earth house

Wake up to the stunning view of mist-covered mountains, inhale the fresh air, and take a moment to soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the bus for your journey to the breathtaking Halong Bay Upon arrival at the pier, board your cruise and set sail through this mesmerizing seascape.
Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of Vietnam's most iconic natural wonders. It’s known for its thousands of limestone islands that rise out of the emerald-green water.
Shaped by nature over millions of years, the bay is home to pristine beaches, floating fishing villages, hidden caves, and unforgettable vistas, making it a must-see destination.
Indulge in a delicious lunch on board as you cruise through the bay, admiring the towering karst formations and the serene beauty of the surroundings.
In the afternoon, relax on the deck or take a swim at a quiet beach. As the sun sets, join happy hour on the top deck and watch the sky turn beautiful shades of orange and pink. The cruise will then anchor for the night, giving you a peaceful rest surrounded by the islands.
End the day with a lovely dinner on board and fall asleep under the stars, surrounded by the beauty of Halong Bay.

Included activities

  • Halong boat cruise
  • Kayaking & swimming

Meals included

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Accommodation

  • Overnight aboard the boat

Start your day early to witness the beautiful sunrise as it lights up the stunning landscape of Halong Bay. After breakfast, take a peaceful rowing boat ride through a natural tunnel and exploring a charming floating village.
Return to the main boat and continue your relaxing cruise to uncover another scenic part of the bay while enjoying a delicious lunch on board.
Arrive at the harbor in the early afternoon (around 11:00 - 11:30, depending on the boat and tides). Disembark and make your way back to Hanoi. Take some time to explore the city for shopping and dinner before being transferred to the station for your overnight train journey to Da Nang, gateway to ancient town of Hoi An.
Overnight in an air-conditioned soft sleeper cabin.

Included activities

  • Halong Bay boat cruise
  • Boat rowing natural lagoon & tunnels

Meals included

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

Accommodation

  • Overnight train

Special notes

The overnight train will take approximately 13 hours to get to Hue. You'll stay in a shared cabin with four comfortable bunk beds, equipped with soft sleepers and air conditioning. The cabin can be locked from the inside, and toilets are available at both ends of the carriage. There is also a dining car usually at the end of the train that serves simple meals and drinks. Please note that the train travels at around 60 kilometers per hour and may be a bit noisy for those not used to train rides. So, earplugs and one or two bottles of rice wine might come in handy :))

Arrive in Hue around 9:00 AM. A short transfer will take you to your hotel, where facilities are available for freshening up before the official check-in time. Take this opportunity to explore the area and get acquainted with your surroundings.
Hue, located in central Vietnam, is a city of great historical importance, once serving as the imperial capital. It offers a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam's royal past, set against a backdrop of beautiful natural scenery.
In the afternoon, embark on a guided tour of the Hue Imperial City. Built between 1804 and 1832, this vast complex was the political and royal center of Vietnam. Enclosed by over 10 kilometers of fortified walls and a protective moat, it houses the Royal City and the Purple Forbidden City, which were the private quarters of the royal family. Despite the damage from past conflicts, the remaining structures, pagodas, and monuments continue to reflect Hue’s rich heritage.
Back to the hotel and the evening is free for you to explore or relax at your leisure.

Included activites

  • Hue Royal City tour

Meal included

No meal included on this day

Accommodation

  • Hotel in Hue

Travel through picturesque rural landscapes, mountains, and lagoons as you make your way to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Hoi An. Along the way, stop at the pristine Lang Co Beach and cross the famous Hai Van Pass, the highest mountain pass in central Vietnam, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.
Hoi An, located along the tranquil Thu Bon River, was a major trading port from the 15th to the 19th century, attracting merchants from Asia and Europe. Today, Hoi An’s well-preserved architecture, rich traditions, and distinctive lifestyle, combined with excellent tourist services, have made it one of the most beloved destinations in Vietnam.
In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walking tour through Hoi An’s ancient town. Wander its charming streets, lined with traditional architecture and lively markets, while your guide shares insights into the town’s history and culture.
Afterward, enjoy free time to explore the town at your own pace. Hoi An is a culinary haven, famous for its local specialties. Be sure to try dishes like "Cao Lau," a unique noodle dish exclusive to Hoi An, and "White Rose," delicate dumplings filled with shrimp or pork.
Hoi An is also a shopper's paradise, known for its handcrafted souvenirs and custom tailoring services, offering quick turnarounds for bespoke clothing, from suits and dresses to traditional Vietnamese attire, crafted by skilled local tailors. Don't miss the opportunity to explore these establishments and have the latest fashion styles made just for you.

Included activities

  • Hoi An ancient town walking tour

Meals included

  • Breakfast

Accommodation

  • Hotel in Hoi An

Optional activities

- Hoi An memory show: US$

Spend the day discovering Hoi An at your own pace. Wander through its charming streets, where moss-covered rooftops and lantern-lit balconies create a magical atmosphere. Take a break at a local café for a refreshing drink, explore the shops, or taste local specialties like Cao Lau noodles and White Rose dumplings.
You can also opt to bike through the countryside for scenic views, or take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River. If you're interested, you can also join a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes.

Included meals

  • Breakfast

Accommodation

  • Hotel in Hoi An

Optional activities

Cooking class: US$ 25

Breakfast is at the hotel.
Enjoy another free day to explore Hoi An.
In the evening, you will get transferred to Da Nang station to catch overnight train to Ninh Thuan.
Overnight aboard the train in A/C soft sleeper cabin.

Included meals

  • Breakfast

Accommodation

  • Overnight train

Arrive in Thap Cham in the late morning. Get picked up and transferred to hotel in Ninh Chu.
Ninh Chu Beach is one of Vietnam’s most tranquil and unspoiled coastal destinations. Stretching over 10 kilometers, this stunning beach is known for its golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and gentle waves, making it an ideal getaway for relaxation and outdoor activities. Unlike other beach destinations, Ninh Chu offers a peaceful atmosphere with fewer crowds, allowing visitors to enjoy nature at its finest. The area boasts year-round sunshine, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports such as windsurfing, kite surfing, and sailing.
Spend the remainder of the day unwinding on the beach. Relax under the tropical sun, take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters, or sway gently in a hammock under a coconut tree, enjoying the soothing sea breeze.

Included meals

  • Breakfast

Accommodation

  • Hotel in Ninh Chu

Spend another relaxing day on Ninh Chu’s beautiful shores. For those looking to explore, rent a motorbike taxi or car and venture into Ninh Thuan’s unique landscapes and cultural sites. North of Ninh Chu Beach, you’ll find the Panduranga Cham Towers, an important remnant of the Cham civilization, showcasing intricate architecture and cultural significance. Further north, the Thai An vineyards offer a chance to taste locally produced grapes and wine while enjoying picturesque vineyard landscapes.
To the south lie the golden Nam Cuong sand dunes, a stunning desert-like landscape. Further along the coast, the Mui Dinh Lighthouse stands atop rugged cliffs, offering panoramic views of the sea and surrounding scenery.
In the evening, transfer to the train station for your overnight journey to Ho Chi Minh City.

Included meals

  • Breakfast

Accommodation

  • Overnight train

Arrive at Saigon Station early in the morning.
Ho Chi Minh City, the largest city in Vietnam, blends rich history with modern development. Colonial architecture coexists with towering skyscrapers, and the streets are constantly buzzing with activity.
After freshening up at the hotel, enjoy a city tour aboard a cyclo, a traditional three-wheel pedicab. Visit key landmarks including the War Remnants Museum, the Reunification Palace (the former Presidential Palace of South Vietnam), Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Saigon Post Office, and the Opera House. The morning wraps up with a stop at Ben Thanh Market, a vibrant hub offering local crafts, fresh produce, and souvenirs.
The afternoon is free for you to explore at your own pace.

Included activities

  • Cyclo tour of Saigon - Ho Chi Minh City

Included meals

No meal included on this day

Accommodation

  • Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

Take a drive out of the bustling center of Ho Chi Minh City to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, one of Vietnam’s most renowned historical sites and a significant relic of the war.
This vast underground network stretches over 200 kilometers, with narrow tunnels connecting hideouts, shelters, fighting bunkers, hospitals, schools, and living spaces, all ingeniously designed with air filters, airtight covers, booby traps, and sentries. The tunnels served as a stronghold for the Viet Minh and Viet Cong during both the First and Second Indochina Wars, from 1948 to 1975.
Take a walk through the labyrinth of tunnels, nestled beneath tropical vegetation, gaining insight into how the Viet Cong lived and fought during the war. You’ll even have the opportunity to crawl through the tunnels, experiencing firsthand the conditions they endured and learning about the incredible resilience and determination of the Vietnamese people during the conflict.
Drive back to the city and the remainder of the day is free for you to relax or explore at your leisure.

Included acitivities

  • Cu Chi Tunnels explore

Included meals

  • Breakfast

Accommodation

  • Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

After breakfast, leave Saigon for an exciting tour of the Mekong Delta, often referred to as the rice basket of Vietnam.
Upon arrival, embark on a relaxing boat cruise along a small river, taking in the sights of local life along the banks. Visit a vibrant orchard, taste fresh tropical fruits, and explore workshops where you can learn about traditional coconut candy-making, pop rice production, and mat weaving. Next, take a motor cart ride through shady paths, passing coconut groves, rice fields, and vegetable farms, offering a glimpse into the local way of life.
Enjoy a delightful local lunch featuring specialties like elephant ear fish, prawns, and crispy banana flower cake. Finish your tour with a peaceful sampan ride through winding creeks lined with water coconut mangroves, before returning to the pier and driving back to Ho Chi Minh City.
As tonight marks your last evening in Ho Chi Minh City, why not join your fellow travelers for a memorable farewell dinner and have fun together. Saigon’s nightlife offers something for every taste. For those who seek a vibrant atmosphere with neon lights, the Bui Vien Street and Pham Ngu Lao area are hotspots for night owls. If you're looking for a more refined experience, visit Eon Heli Bar atop Landmark 81, Vietnam’s tallest building, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views and expertly crafted cocktails.

Included activities

  • Mekong Delta discovery tour

Included meals

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

Accommodation

  • Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

Today is the departure day of your trip, and no activities are organized. Make the most of your free time to unwind, relax, do some some last-minute shopping or simply taking a leisurely stroll. After checking out, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight. Safe travel and looking forward to seeing you again soon!

Meals included

  • Breakfast

Special notes

The standard check-out time is 11:00 AM. If your departure flight is later and you'd like to keep the room longer, please inform us in advance so we can help to arrange it for you. Alternatively, you can store your luggage at the hotel and use the public facilities available.
If you’re planning to stay longer, we can assist with post-trip accommodations and arrange activities to enhance your experience.
In case you are interested in exploring more of the region? Browse our tour list for options, including set departure dates, to combine with your current itinerary.

PRICE & AVAILABILITIES

Enquire about this trip

This form is used if you prefer not to make an immediate booking through our online system but instead seek additional trip information or explore alternative travel dates not available on the booking list.
Please provide us with as much information as possible regarding your travel needs and any specific requirements you may have. You can also suggest alterations to the travel program to better suit your needs.
We will promptly respond within 24 working hours to address your inquiries.

Thank you very much!

IMPORTANT NOTES

1. Booking information:Please provide your full name exactly as per passport when you fill the booking form as it will be used for travel procedures processing and any tickets bookings. Other information can be filled right away or will be requested later if needed.

2. Single travelers: Theoretically, on our joined group trips, you will share the room with another group member of the same gender. However, in case you travel alone and, depending on group configuration, if there is no one else to share the room with, you are subject to pay for single supplement. There is also the option to pay a single supplement in advance to ensure that you have your own room during the trip. Please note that single supplement is not available on overnight trains or at local home stay.

3. Season and travel conditions: While tropical sunlight and warm weather dominates the south Vietnam all year round, weather in the north Vietnam is more varied.
From December to February weather is cold with temperature ranges from 8 to 16 degree Celsius and it can be 5 or 8 degrees lower on the mountainous area such as Sapa. It is cool and mild from March to April but will get warmer during the summer time from May to September and then cool down from October. So, if you travel in the winter time, please make sure that you have proper warm clothes with you and, loose fitting clothes will be needed for summer time.

4. Travel documents: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the duration of the trip and, please ensure that you have obtained all of the appropriate visas, permits and certificates for the countries you will visit during your trip.

5. Travel insurance: : It is your responsibility to get your own international travel insurance before your trip. The requisite level of cover should at least be including personal accident, medical expenses, baggage loss, and cancellation or curtailment of vacation etc.

 

TRIP DOCUMENTS

This Trip Documents provides the detailed information about the trip including detailed itinerary, inclusions on tour, instruction for arrival and departure, and other important notes for your adventure.
 

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