The Grand Vietnam Adventure – Trek, Taste and Travel Deep
Start your journey in Hanoi with a Vespa ride and street food experience before heading into the mountains of Pu Luong, Mai Chau, and Mu Cang Chai for off-the-beaten-path trekking through rice terraces, bamboo forests, and hill tribe villages. Discover the rugged beauty of Sapa with an overnight homestay and a journey to Mount Fansipan. Explore caves and wetlands in Ninh Binh, cruise Ha Long Bay, and continue south to explore Hue’s imperial sites and the jungle landscapes of Bach Ma National Park. Bike through Hoi An’s countryside, cook with locals, relax by the beach, and finish with the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels, and the Mekong Delta.
Welcome to Vietnam!
Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport; meet your driver for an airport transfer with a private vehicle and English - speaking guide. The driving distance is approximately 45 minutes. Your visa should be pre-arranged, or be sure that your visa-on-arrival letter is in your carry-on luggage. Please go to the customs desk as your first point of entry into the country and present these documents for visa upon arrival. Fast track service can be booked in advance.
Hanoi, or “River-bound City," as its name literally means, is Vietnam’s capital with a thousand-year-old history dating back to 1010. The city’s fascinating beauty, which is characterised by unique cultural relics, ancient streets of antique houses, elegant French colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards, and romantic lakes, has made it one of the most charming cities of Asia.
Meals: N/A
Stay overnight in Hanoi
In the morning, have breakfast, then experience the best of Hanoi on a scooter adventure that immerses you in the rich culture, history, and charm of Vietnam’s vibrant capital. Riding on a vintage Vespa, you’ll explore hidden gems away from the usual tourist trails, beginning with a traditional Vietnamese coffee experience in the heart of the Old Quarter. The tour takes you to iconic landmarks like the French colonial-era St. Joseph’s Cathedral and the historic Long Bien Bridge, while also diving into Hanoi’s dynamic art scene with stops to admire both traditional and contemporary street art. Along the way, stroll through a bustling local market, visit a historic temple, and see remarkable war relics, including a downed B-52 aircraft from the Vietnam War. Adding a truly local touch, you’ll also have the chance to meet a Hanoi resident—perhaps a kumquat farmer or a Vietnamese tea master—offering a genuine connection to the city’s seasonal rhythms and daily life.
Embark on an unforgettable afternoon street food tour, starting at either 12:00 PM or 6:00 PM, based on your choice. Meet your enthusiastic guide at the hotel for a delightful transfer to the vibrant center of Hanoi.
As you wander through the enchanting Old Quarter, let the narrow lanes, winding backstreets and hidden alleys ignite your sense of adventure. Explore countless vendors showcasing their culinary masterpieces along the roadside, and immerse yourself in the lively sights and sounds of the city. Relish a steaming bowl of pho at one of Hanoi’s finest shops, as your guide unveils the cherished secrets behind this iconic noodle soup.
Continue your journey of flavors with other local delights, such as banh cuon—steamed rice papers filled with savory pork and mushrooms—and crispy nem chua ran. Enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner featuring perfectly grilled meats and vegetables at a beloved local restaurant.
Conclude this culinary experience by unwinding with a refreshing beer at a bia hoi, where draft beer flows in a warm atmosphere, or at a quaint café. Savor every sip of beer or coffee while absorbing the vibrant street scenes, embracing the spirit of Hanoi before returning to your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (or dinner)
Stay overnight in Hanoi
Depart early from Hanoi by private vehicle and head southwest toward Pu Luong Nature Reserve, a hidden gem in Thanh Hoa Province, known for its terraced rice fields, limestone mountains, and traditional Thai ethnic villages. The scenic drive takes approximately 4–5 hours, offering a gradual transition from urban bustle to peaceful countryside.
Enjoy a simple, home-cooked lunch in the village or a picnic en route, prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Start your trek with a descent through terraced rice paddies and bamboo forests, eventually reaching Kho Muong Village, a charming settlement of the Thai ethnic minority nestled in a secluded valley. Here, you’ll witness traditional stilt houses, and daily farming life, and may even have the chance to explore the nearby Kho Muong Cave, a hidden limestone cavern with impressive formations.
Continue your trek for another 2–2.5 hours along forested trails and undulating terrain, heading toward Ban Bang Village, a lesser-known yet equally authentic community nestled among rice fields and jungle-clad hills. Along the way, you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas of the Pu Luong landscape and insight into the sustainable way of life practised by the local villagers.
After your trek, your driver will meet you at a road-access point near Ban Bang. Relax and take in the surrounding views as you begin the return to your accommodation.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Stay overnight in Pu Luong
Duration: Full Day (Approx. 6–7 hours trekking)
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Authentic Thai villages, rice terraces, jungle trails, Hieu Waterfall
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your eco-lodge or homestay in Pu Luong, surrounded by panoramic views of rice terraces and misty mountains. At around 8:00 AM, meet your local trekking guide and begin your full-day adventure into the heart of the reserve.
Your trek begins with a gentle descent into Don Village, one of the most picturesque Thai ethnic minority villages in the region. Wander past traditional stilt houses and terraced fields, where you’ll catch a glimpse of daily rural life—women weaving textiles, farmers tending water buffalo, and children playing by the stream.
From Don, continue on foot through narrow trails and terraced slopes to reach Long Village, known for its peaceful setting and friendly locals. The route offers incredible photo opportunities, especially during planting or harvest season when the rice fields are at their most vibrant.
The trail then leads through shaded bamboo forests and valleys to Doc Village, a small, quiet hamlet perched among the hills. Here, you can take a short rest, refill your water, and enjoy a light local snack while soaking in the serenity of the Pu Luong landscape.
From Doc, the path descends deeper into the reserve, following a lush forested trail alongside streams that eventually bring you to the day’s highlight—Hieu Waterfall. This multi-tiered cascade is one of Pu Luong’s most beautiful natural attractions, nestled beside a quaint village of the same name. Take time to relax, dip your feet in the refreshing water, or enjoy a picnic lunch prepared by your host or guide.
After a well-earned break, begin your return trek, taking an alternate trail back through the hills and rice terraces. The route loops you gradually uphill, bringing you back to your hotel or homestay by late afternoon (approximately 4:30–5:00 PM).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Stay overnight in Pu Luong
After breakfast at your eco-lodge or homestay in Pu Luong, depart by private vehicle toward Mai Chau Valley, a picturesque destination known for its rolling rice paddies, stilt houses, and welcoming local communities. The drive takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, passing through lush hills, traditional hamlets, and scenic mountain passes.
Upon arrival in Mai Chau, check into your lodge or traditional stilt house accommodation nestled in the valley. After a short rest, enjoy a delicious local lunch featuring specialities such as grilled pork with bamboo shoots, sticky rice, and mountain herbs.
In the afternoon, take a leisurely guided bicycle or walking tour through the valley, heading toward Lac Village, one of the most vibrant Thai ethnic villages in the region. Explore the stilt houses, interact with local artisans, and learn about traditional weaving techniques still practised by hand. You may wish to shop for handwoven textiles and handmade souvenirs directly from the villagers.
As the sun sets over the valley, return to your accommodation to relax and refresh.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Stay overnight in Mai Chau
After breakfast at your lodge in the peaceful Mai Chau Valley, begin your overland journey to Mu Cang Chai—one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking highland destinations (approx. 6–7 hours by road). The scenic drive takes you through a dramatic landscape of terraced rice fields, ethnic minority villages, and winding mountain passes.
Along the way, pause at local viewpoints and charming towns such as Moc Chau or Son La, depending on the route, where you can stretch your legs and sample local snacks or fresh mountain fruits.
Continue your journey deeper into the northwest highlands, gradually ascending to higher altitudes where the air turns cooler and the landscape becomes increasingly majestic. Break for a local lunch at a roadside restaurant or a small ethnic village, where you can enjoy authentic mountain cuisine and learn more about the traditions of the Thai or Hmong communities.
Arrive in Mu Cang Chai by late afternoon and check into your eco-lodge or homestay, nestled amid the famed rice terraces.
Meals: Breakfast
Stay overnight in Mu Cang Chai
Embark on a gentle yet deeply enriching journey through the heart of northwestern Vietnam, where rolling rice terraces, emerald valleys, and quiet ethnic villages await. This full-day light trek offers a perfect blend of cultural connection and natural discovery, taking you from the serene landscapes of Mai Chau Valley to the pine-covered ridge of Han Cuon Dua Pine Hill, and deeper into the peaceful Pu Luong Bamboo Forest—a hidden treasure within the reserve.
Your adventure begins in the peaceful setting of Mai Chau, where stilt-house villages are framed by golden rice fields and dramatic limestone cliffs. Walking out from your homestay or lodge, you'll follow a network of village trails shaded by acacia and banana trees. Along the way, you'll encounter local Thai villagers going about their daily lives—tending to their fields, weaving brocade by hand, or leading water buffalo through narrow paths. It's a living portrait of rural Vietnam.
As you gently ascend, the path opens to Han Cuon Dua Pine Hill, a highland ridge where tall pine trees sway in the wind and the valley stretches out below in all directions. This scenic spot offers a refreshing change of atmosphere and a chance to rest beneath the cool shade, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and take in the panoramic view. With birdsong echoing through the trees, it’s a tranquil setting for light meditation, photography, or simply being present with nature.
From the pine hill, your journey continues by vehicle or foot—depending on your pace and interest—toward Pu Luong Nature Reserve, home to some of Vietnam’s most pristine ecosystems. Passing through local villages, the landscape begins to transform: rice terraces give way to bamboo groves, and the air grows cooler as you approach one of the area’s most enchanting natural features—the Pu Luong Bamboo Forest.
Tucked away on a gentle slope, this forest is a quiet haven of tall, arching bamboo, where filtered sunlight creates a calming green glow. Walking beneath the canopy, you’ll feel a distinct sense of peace as you listen to the wind rustling through the leaves. This forest is not just beautiful—it’s an essential part of the local ecosystem, supporting biodiversity and sustaining traditional livelihoods.
At midday, pause for a picnic lunch in a clearing or enjoy a locally prepared meal in a nearby village, featuring dishes made from ingredients gathered from the surrounding hills—like bamboo shoot soup, sticky rice wrapped in leaves, and grilled mountain pork.
The return route takes you along scenic trails back to Mai Chau, offering one last look at the valley's quiet beauty. You may pass children riding bicycles home from school, or farmers gathering produce at the end of the day. Arriving back at your accommodation, you’ll carry with you a deep appreciation for the landscapes and people that make this region so special.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Stay overnight in Mu Cang Chai
Begin your day in Mu Cang Chai, a region famed for its magnificent rice terraces carved into the mountains by generations of Hmong and Thai ethnic communities. As you leave Mu Cang Chai, you’ll ascend into the highlands, crossing breathtaking passes such as Khau Pha Pass—one of Vietnam’s most legendary mountain roads. The journey to Sapa takes approximately 5–6 hours by private car, but the ever-changing scenery of valleys, streams, ethnic villages, and cloud-covered peaks makes every moment memorable.
Along the way, there are optional stops for photos and short walks through hillside hamlets or tea plantations. Your guide may also introduce you to local vendors selling handmade textiles and traditional snacks like grilled corn or sticky rice in bamboo.
Arriving in Sapa by early afternoon, you’ll immediately feel the refreshing mountain air and cool alpine climate. After a brief break, continue your adventure with a lightly guided walk down to Cat Cat Village, located just a few kilometers from Sapa town. This traditional Black Hmong village sits at the base of a deep valley where the Muong Hoa Stream flows through lush hillsides and cascading rice fields.
As you stroll through the cobblestone paths of Cat Cat, you’ll witness local life firsthand—women dyeing indigo fabrics, men forging tools by hand, and children playing beside wooden water wheels. Visit traditional stilt houses, learn about Hmong weaving and embroidery techniques, and enjoy the serene backdrop of waterfalls and terraced hills.
You can also stop by a local family home for herbal tea or opt to purchase beautiful handmade handicrafts directly from the artisans. The walk back up to Sapa offers a rewarding view of the surrounding mountains and rooftops tucked into the valley below.
Conclude your day with free time in Sapa town, where you can explore its charming streets, enjoy a warm cup of Vietnamese coffee, or relax at your hotel overlooking Fansipan Mountain.
Meals: Breakfast
Stay overnight in Sapa
After breakfast, begin your day with a short scenic drive from Sapa town to Cat Cat Village, home to the Black H’mong ethnic group. Nestled in a valley at the foot of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, Cat Cat offers a glimpse into traditional H’mong life. Take a guided walk through the village to see traditional stilt houses, water wheels, and local women weaving cloth and dyeing with indigo.
Enjoy panoramic views of terraced rice fields and cascading waterfalls, and interact with friendly locals in their daily routines.
Continue your journey with a relaxing drive along a scenic mountain road toward the Muong Hoa Valley, with stops at picturesque viewpoints for photo opportunities. Arrive at Lao Chai Village, another Black H’mong settlement. Explore the village and observe how traditional culture is balanced with modern rural life.
A short drive onward brings you to Ta Van Village, home to the Giay ethnic minority, known for their stilt houses and unique customs. Walk through the village lanes, chat with locals, and enjoy the serene landscape of layered rice terraces and tranquil streams.
Enjoy a home-cooked lunch at a local guesthouse or small village restaurant, offering regional specialities such as spring rolls, grilled meats, local herbs, and sticky rice.
After lunch, travel by car to Ta Phin Village, a peaceful community inhabited by the Red Dao people, recognizable by their red headdresses and intricate embroidery. Visit a traditional herbal medicine house and learn about the Red Dao’s famous herbal bathing tradition. You may even try a short herbal foot soak, perfect for relaxation.
Stroll through the village to admire the terraced landscape and local markets, and explore the nearby Ta Phin Cave if time and interest allow.
After a rich day of cultural immersion and gentle exploration, return to Sapa Town by late afternoon. The rest of the day is free for leisure, spa time, or enjoying Sapa’s vibrant café scene.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Stay overnight in local homestay
Begin your morning in Sapa, where the cool air and mountainous backdrop offer a calm and inspiring start. After breakfast, your guide will accompany you to the Fansipan Legend Cable Car Station. The ride itself is a highlight—gliding silently over lush forests, deep valleys, and cloud-covered slopes, you’ll gain a new appreciation for the grandeur of Vietnam’s northern frontier.
At the summit of Fansipan (3,143 meters), step out into a world above the clouds. Carved stone pathways and ancient-style pagodas line the ridge, leading you to the peak’s marker—a place where travellers pause to reflect and capture their final moments in the mountains. The panoramic views are breathtaking, with the Hoang Lien Son range stretching endlessly in every direction. It’s a moment of both stillness and triumph—a poetic farewell to the highlands.
Take time to breathe deeply, soak in the scenery, and perhaps light a small incense offering at the mountaintop pagoda. These are the final notes of your northern symphony—quiet, powerful, and unforgettable.
After descending via cable car, enjoy a final stroll or warm drink in Sapa town, perhaps picking up a handmade souvenir from a local market or enjoying a last taste of regional cuisine. Then, your private driver will meet you for the comfortable 5.5–6 hours transfer back to Hanoi. Lunch at a local restaurant on the way back to Hanoi
Upon arrival in Hanoi, you will be dropped off at your hotel. The remainder of the day is at your leisure—relax, enjoy a quiet dinner in the Old Quarter, or take a final walk around Hoan Kiem Lake to ease back into the rhythm of the capital city.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Stay overnight in Hanoi
Depart Hanoi in the morning with a private driver and local guide, heading south through the Red River Delta. As the landscape shifts from city streets to open rice fields and limestone peaks, you'll begin to see why Ninh Binh is considered one of Vietnam’s most naturally blessed regions.
Your first stop is Mua Cave (Hang Múa), one of Ninh Binh’s most iconic and photogenic locations. While the cave itself is small, the true highlight is the panoramic viewpoint atop the mountain. A climb of roughly 500 stone steps leads you to a breathtaking summit overlooking Tam Coc’s rice fields, winding rivers, and dramatic karst formations. It’s the perfect reward for a moderate hike, offering one of the best views in Northern Vietnam.
After descending, take time to explore the peaceful lotus ponds at the base and capture photos of the dragon statue-lined steps before enjoying a local lunch at a nearby garden restaurant. The cuisine here is simple, and hearty, and often includes regional specialities such as goat meat, crispy rice, and stir-fried mountain vegetables.
In the afternoon, continue your journey to Thung Nham Bird Park, located deep within the ecotourism core zone of Trang An. A peaceful, off-the-beaten-path destination, Thung Nham offers a gentle exploration of wetlands, fruit orchards, and forested limestone mountains. Take a small sampan boat through the flooded forest, gliding silently through bird sanctuaries where thousands of storks, herons, and other native species roost—especially beautiful in the late afternoon hours.
In addition to birdwatching, you can explore tropical gardens, ancient caves, and hidden grottoes, or relax in the stillness of this protected natural area. The combination of biodiversity, quiet waterways, and immersive nature makes Thung Nham a standout experience for travellers seeking serenity and ecological richness.
After a fulfilling day of nature and exploration, go to your accommodation in Ninh Binh in the late afternoon or early evening. Arrive back at your hotel with a camera full of stunning views and a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s rich natural heritage.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Stay overnight in Ninh Binh
Depart from your hotel in Ninh Binh in the morning via private transfer. The drive to Ha Long Bay takes approximately 3.5–4 hours through rural villages, lush rice fields, and gently rising coastal hills. En route, enjoy glimpses of local life and landscapes as your driver and guide provide insights into the region’s geography and culture.
Arriving at the Ha Long Bay cruise port, you’ll be welcomed aboard your selected overnight cruise vessel. As you check in and settle into your private cabin—many with balconies and ocean-facing views—you’ll begin to leave the mainland behind.
The cruise sets sail into the maze of limestone islets, jade-green waters, and hidden coves that make Ha Long Bay one of the most beautiful seascapes on Earth. A gourmet lunch is served on board as you pass iconic rock formations.
In the afternoon, the cruise typically anchors near a quiet bay or floating village for optional activities such as:
Kayaking through hidden lagoons
Swimming in crystal-clear coves
Visiting a limestone cave or a pearl farm
As the sun begins to set, enjoy a sunset cocktail on the sundeck followed by a beautifully prepared dinner onboard.
Spend the night surrounded by the quiet serenity of the bay, with only the sound of the water gently lapping against the boat. It’s a truly magical contrast to the mountainous beauty of Ninh Binh earlier that morning—a perfect day from inland charm to ocean elegance.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Stay overnight on Ha Long Bay Cruise
Wake up to the peaceful ambience of Ha Long Bay as the sun rises gently over the misty islets. Begin your day with a light morning activity offered by your cruise—such as tai chi on the sundeck, a short visit to a limestone cave, or a gentle kayak or bamboo boat ride through hidden coves—depending on your cruise program.
After the excursion, return to the ship for a leisurely breakfast while the vessel cruises back toward the harbor. Enjoy your final moments on the bay with a fresh cup of Vietnamese coffee or juice in hand, admiring the ever-changing silhouette of the karst landscape one last time.
A brunch buffet is typically served on board just before check-out, featuring a variety of local and Western dishes to refuel you for the journey ahead.
Upon docking at the cruise port (usually late morning), your private driver will meet you at the pier for a direct transfer to Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi. The drive takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours via expressway in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. En route, you may relax, nap, or enjoy the views of the northern countryside rolling past your window.
Arriving at Noi Bai International Airport, your guide or driver will assist with check-in for your domestic flight to Hue, located in central Vietnam. The flight typically takes 1–1.5 hours, offering a convenient and efficient link between two of Vietnam’s most iconic destinations.
Upon arrival in Hue, you will be welcomed by your driver or guide (if pre-arranged) and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast, Brunch
Stay overnight in Hue
Your journey begins with a visit to the Imperial City (The Citadel), the former seat of the Nguyen Dynasty. Enter through the Ngo Mon Gate and explore the massive complex of royal palaces, temples, halls, and gardens, including the Thai Hoa Palace, Forbidden Purple City, and Royal Antiquities Museum. Learn about the court rituals, architecture, and symbolism that shaped the last Vietnamese dynasty.
Next, you’ll visit Dong Ba Market, the oldest traditional market in Hue. Walk through vibrant aisles filled with local produce, snacks, spices, and hand-crafted goods. It’s the perfect place to connect with local life and perhaps try a local treat like sesame candy or "banh beo."
Continue to one of the city’s most revered royal tombs—either the Tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, known for its poetic, tranquil atmosphere surrounded by pine trees and lakes, or the Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh, which stands out with its fusion of Vietnamese and European architectural elements.
Enjoy a local lunch at a garden house restaurant, where you can sample some of Hue’s refined imperial cuisine, such as banh khoai, nem lui, and com hen.
In the afternoon, transfer to the Toa Kham Pier and board a traditional dragon boat for a relaxing cruise along the Perfume River. As you glide past peaceful villages and riverside scenes, your guide will share stories of Hue’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
Disembark at the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue’s most famous Buddhist monument, perched on a hill overlooking the river. Admire the elegant seven-story Phuoc Duyen Tower, learn about the pagoda’s role in Vietnamese history, and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the temple grounds and bonsai gardens.
After the visit, return to your hotel with the option to stop at a local café or riverside viewpoint to enjoy a coffee or refreshing sugarcane juice.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Stay overnight in Hue
Your biking journey begins at the Thanh Toan Covered Bridge, a charming 18th-century structure built in the Japanese-Vietnamese style and one of the few remaining of its kind in Vietnam. Take time to explore the nearby Thanh Toan Agricultural Museum, where you’ll gain insight into traditional farming tools, fishing methods, and rural life in the Hue countryside.
Hop on your bicycle and start pedaling through quiet backroads and farming villages. The flat terrain makes for an easy and enjoyable ride, suitable for most fitness levels. Along the way, you'll pass vibrant green rice fields, lotus ponds, duck farms, and traditional family homes. Your guide will stop occasionally to explain local customs, crops, and life in the countryside. Friendly locals may wave hello or invite you to sample fresh sugarcane juice or seasonal fruit.
As you continue riding, the landscape gently shifts toward the hilly outskirts of Hue, eventually arriving at Thuy Xuan Incense Village. This small but vibrant village is known for its hand-rolled incense sticks and vivid, photogenic displays of colorful incense laid out in fans to dry under the sun. Meet the artisans, learn how incense is made using traditional techniques, and try your hand at rolling a few sticks of your own.
There’s time to browse for souvenirs, take photos with the iconic incense fans, and enjoy a refreshing local drink before wrapping up your ride.
You’ll then either bike back to the starting point or be transferred back to your hotel in Hue, depending on your preferred route and timing.
Meals: Breakfast
Stay overnight in Hue
After an early breakfast at your hotel in Hue, depart by private vehicle for Bach Ma National Park, located approximately 60 km south of the city. Upon arrival, meet your local guide and begin an invigorating trek through this biodiversity haven. Enjoy the cool mountain air as you hike to the summit of Bach Ma Peak (1,450m), where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Lang Co Bay, Truoi Lake, and the surrounding forest canopy. Visit the iconic Hai Vong Dai (Sea Watching Tower) and marvel at the Five Lakes Trail, where you can take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear pools fed by jungle waterfalls. Have lunch at a local restaurant
After your nature excursion, continue your journey south along one of Vietnam’s most iconic coastal routes—the Hai Van Pass. As your vehicle climbs the winding mountain road, stop at scenic viewpoints to capture stunning photos of the coastline and distant cityscapes. The pass offers unmatched vistas of Da Nang Bay and the South China Sea, making it a memorable part of your journey.
Descend from the pass and make your way through Da Nang before arriving in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Hoi An in the late afternoon. Check into your hotel and unwind. The rest of the evening is at your leisure to explore Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets, riverside cafés, or tailor shops.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Stay overnight in Hoi An
Your immersive day in Hoi An begins with a morning pickup from your hotel, followed by a short briefing and bicycle fitting. Accompanied by an experienced local guide, set out on a leisurely cycling journey through the idyllic countryside, far from the tourist trails. Ride along shaded village paths and tranquil rice paddies, passing water buffalo, lotus ponds, and farmers at work.
Stop at a local mat-weaving family and try your hand at this traditional craft. Continue through Cam Thanh Coconut Village, where you’ll learn about water coconut farming and enjoy a fun basketboat ride along the peaceful waterways.
Pedal your way to a bustling local market where your cooking guide will introduce you to fresh herbs, vegetables, and spices essential to Vietnamese cuisine. After collecting ingredients, cycle to a peaceful riverside cooking school surrounded by gardens.
Roll up your sleeves and dive into a hands-on cooking class at Vy's Market Restaurant led by a professional chef. Prepare authentic Vietnamese dishes such as fresh spring rolls, bánh xèo (Vietnamese savory pancakes), grilled lemongrass chicken, and a traditional dessert. After the class, sit down and enjoy the fruits of your labor in a relaxing garden setting.
Following lunch, enjoy a gentle cycle back to Hoi An through more scenic countryside, taking in the rhythm of rural life. Stop for a visit at a local temple or communal house along the way. Depending on your energy level, you may opt to detour through Tra Que Vegetable Village and learn about organic farming techniques unique to the region.
Arrive back at your hotel by late afternoon. The rest of the evening is yours to relax, or perhaps continue exploring the enchanting streets of Hoi An Ancient Town on foot.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Stay overnight in Hoi An
Your journey begins with a scenic transfer or a short bicycle ride from your hotel in Hoi An to Tra Que Vegetable Village, a charming farming community just a few kilometers from the town center. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed by local villagers who will introduce you to the age-old traditions of organic farming.
Walk through lush herb gardens filled with mint, basil, lemongrass, and other aromatic plants. Participate in hands-on farming activities such as soil preparation, fertilizing with seaweed, watering crops, and harvesting vegetables—all using traditional, non-mechanized methods.
After the farming session, enjoy a refreshing herbal foot soak and join your hosts in preparing a light local meal, such as Tam Huu spring rolls and Tra Que vegetable pancakes, followed by a relaxed garden-side tasting.
After your authentic cultural experience, return to your hotel in Hoi An or be transferred directly to the beach area.
The afternoon is yours to unwind at one of Hoi An’s picturesque beaches, such as An Bang or Cua Dai. Stretch out on the soft sand, take a dip in the clear waters of the East Sea, or sip a cool drink at a beachfront café. For those seeking more activity, optional water sports such as paddleboarding or parasailing may be available.
Meals: Breakfast
Stay overnight in Hoi An
Today is yours to fully enjoy the charm, culture, and coastal beauty of Hoi An Ancient Town at your own pace. Whether you prefer to explore the UNESCO-listed streets, unwind on the beach, or dive deeper into Vietnamese traditions, Hoi An offers something for every traveller.
Meals: Breakfast
Stay overnight in Hoi An
Spend your final hours in Hoi An soaking in the peaceful charm of this ancient riverside town. After breakfast at your hotel, enjoy a gentle morning stroll through the lantern-lined streets or make a quick stop at the local tailor to pick up any final custom garments. For those seeking a last cultural touch, visit the Hoi An Central Market for last-minute souvenirs or enjoy a brief riverside coffee with views of the historic Japanese Covered Bridge.
Late morning, meet your driver for a private transfer to Da Nang International Airport (approx. 45 minutes), where you’ll board your domestic flight to Ho Chi Minh City.
Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, your local guide and driver will greet you and begin a curated half-day city tour. Visit key historical and cultural landmarks such as:
- The Reunification Palace – the former Presidential Palace of South Vietnam
- Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica and the elegant Central Post Office
- War Remnants Museum – a powerful look at Vietnam’s 20th-century history
- Drive past Dong Khoi Street and Ben Thanh Market, soaking in the city’s energetic rhythm
Wrap up your introduction to the city with a visit to the iconic "Coffee Apartment" on Nguyen Hue Walking Street—a former residential building now home to quirky cafés stacked floor-by-floor. Choose a rooftop spot for locally brewed Vietnamese coffee, such as egg coffee or cold brew, while enjoying panoramic views of the city skyline and people-watching along the lively pedestrian boulevard.
Afterwards, transfer to your hotel for check-in. The evening is free at your leisure to relax or explore more of Saigon’s buzzing nightlife and cuisine scene.
Meals: Breakfast
Stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh City
Start your day early with a hotel pickup in Ho Chi Minh City, heading northwest to the Cu Chi Tunnels (approx. 1.5–2 hours by road). Upon arrival, embark on a guided tour through this vast underground network used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. Discover the ingenuity behind the tunnel systems, hidden entrances, trapdoors, kitchens, and living quarters. You’ll also have the option to experience crawling through a short section of the tunnels for a firsthand perspective.
Your guide will share insightful stories about guerrilla warfare and the resilience of the Vietnamese people during wartime. Take time to explore the surrounding forest area and enjoy a brief break with tea and local tapioca—the wartime staple.
Depart Cu Chi and continue your journey south to My Tho in the Mekong Delta region (approx. 2.5 hours by road). Along the way, take in the changing landscape as you move from the city outskirts to the lush, green waterways of the delta.
Arrive in My Tho and board a traditional motorized boat for a scenic cruise along the Tien River, part of the legendary Mekong River system. Cruise past stilt houses, fishing boats, and verdant riverbanks before stopping at one of the small islands, such as Thoi Son (Unicorn Island).
Experience the warm hospitality of local villagers as you explore coconut candy workshops, taste seasonal fruits, and enjoy a traditional southern folk music performance. Continue by rowing a sampan through peaceful palm-shaded canals, a truly authentic Mekong experience.
A delicious local lunch will be served at a riverside garden restaurant, featuring regional specialties such as elephant ear fish, fresh spring rolls, and tropical fruits.
After your immersive day exploring both Vietnam’s wartime history and vibrant river life, transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City by early evening (approx. 1.5–2 hours). Arrive at your hotel with the evening free to relax or dine at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel and take some time to soak in the last moments of vibrant Ho Chi Minh City. If time permits, you may enjoy a brief stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street or visit a nearby café to savor a final cup of authentic Vietnamese coffee—a fitting farewell to your journey through the country.
Check out of your hotel by late morning. Your private driver will meet you at the hotel lobby for your transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport, and proceed to the international departures terminal. If you have a few hours before your connecting international flight, take advantage of the airport’s lounges or relax at nearby cafés and duty-free shops.
As you prepare to fly home, take a moment to reflect on your unforgettable journey through Vietnam—from the historical landmarks and natural beauty to the vibrant culture and warm hospitality.
Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation in a twin or double room with daily breakfast
- One-night cruise on Ha Long Bay
- Lunch or dinner as specified in the itinerary
- Services of a driver and private air-conditioned vehicle during all tours and transfers
- Experienced English-speaking guide during all tours and transfers
- Entrance fees for all visits as mentioned in the itinerary
- Private boat for sightseeing as mentioned in the programme
- Mineral water is available as complementary
- International & Domestic flight tickets
- Personal expenses, such as laundry, telephone, drinks, etc. All other services not specified in the itinerary
- Meals, if not specified in the itinerary
- Vietnam visa approval letter on arrival: USD 5 per pax
- Visa stamping fee at the airport (25 USD single entry to Vietnam paid by cash at the airport)
- Gratuities for guides and drivers
- Travel insurance (we highly recommend that you purchase adequate insurance)