Exotic 15-Day Vietnam with Hanoi, Mai Chau, Halong, Hoi An & Ho Chi Minh

Depart from Hanoi and travel by bus to Hoa Binh, making a meaningful stop at Vun Art – a social enterprise supporting individuals with disabilities that creates beautiful craft products from Van Phuc silk.

Upon reaching Hoa Binh, towards Cao Phong, journeying through charming ethnic Thai villages and verdant paddy fields. Take time to pause and appreciate the breathtaking views of limestone peaks and expansive valleys along the way.

Once you arrive, enjoy a short bus ride to Man Duc for lunch. Afterward, the bus will take you to the Da River Reservoir, where you cycle alongside the river, flanked by dramatic karst cliffs and lush rice fields. The serene town of Mai Chau, nestled in a stunning valley, is known for its picturesque landscapes and the warmth of its hilltribe communities.

This evening, you will be welcomed into a simple stilt-house homestay in the village of Poom Coong, where you can experience local hospitality. After a delightful home-cooked meal, you may also have the chance to sample some of the local rice wine produced in the region.

After breakfast, wave goodbye to your warm homestay hosts and move towards to Mai Hai, continuing to Co Luong. Take a moment to wave at the friendly locals and farmers tending to their buffalo, creating a sense of connection with the community.

Today’s journey immerses you in the stunning landscapes of vibrant green fields, majestic limestone mountains, and serene waterways. Following your journey, your bus will go through the famous Ho Chi Minh Road to Ninh Binh. Here, you will admire the everyday rural life and soak in the breathtaking countryside scenery. Upon arriving in Ninh Binh, take a moment to settle into your hotel, where you can unwind and prepare for the adventures ahead. Enjoy an overnight stay in this enchanting region, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, laying the groundwork for an unforgettable exploration of Ninh Binh.

Our dedicated guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel and we will begin our journey towards Hoa Lu. Upon arrival, you will have the opportunity to explore the historic capital of Vietnam and visit the renowned ancient temples of the Le and Dinh Dynasties, known for their rich historical significance.

Following our visit to Hoa Lu, our driver will transport you to Tam Coc, where a delightful lunch will be served around 12:30 PM.

After enjoying your meal, you will embark on a captivating boat trip, allowing you to witness the magnificent beauty of the karst formations as you glide along their bases and venture into the enchanting caves that have been carved through the limestone.

To further immerse yourself in the surrounding natural splendor, you will have the chance to embark on a scenic cycling excursion. Pedaling along tranquil roads, you will traverse through charming villages, picturesque rice fields, meandering rivers, and imposing rocky outcrops, covering a distance of approximately 5 kilometers in the Tam Coc - Bich Dong area.

After your journey, board a car to return to your hotel in Hanoi. Once you arrive, you have some free time to leisurely explore the charming streets of the Hanoi Old Quarter. This vibrant area is filled with history, local shops, and delicious street food, making it the perfect place to immerse yourself in the city's culture. After a delightful day of exploration, spend the night in Hanoi, reflecting on your experiences.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we will commence our journey to the captivating Halong Bay, with a pick-up time at approximately 8:00 am. Upon arrival, you will receive a warm welcome aboard the boat, where a delectable lunch will be served as you embark on a scenic cruise through the bay. The specific activities included in the itinerary will depend on the cruise you choose, but typically, you can expect a visit to the Sung Sot Cave, the opportunity for kayaking (available as an additional option on most boats, while some include it as part of the package), swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and taking in the breathtaking landscapes or simply relaxing on the sun deck. As the day comes to a close, a delightful dinner will be served onboard, allowing you to indulge in a sumptuous meal while surrounded by the starry night sky. You will have the pleasure of spending the night on the boat, creating a memorable experience in this enchanting location.

Embrace the tranquil ambiance as the gentle sounds of waves, the soothing breeze, and the crisp, refreshing air welcome you to a new day on the bay. Savor a delightful breakfast served on board the vessel.

After this relaxing start, a morning expedition to explore the captivating limestone caves awaits you, promising a deeper connection with the natural wonders of Halong Bay.

Returning to the boat, you will have one more opportunity to take in the breathtaking views of Halong Bay as the vessel sails back to the port. By 11:30 AM, the boat will have docked, and your driver will be there to transport you back to Hanoi.

Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before transferring to the airport for your flight to Hue. Upon arrival, you will check in at your hotel, where you can relax and settle in.

Enjoy the evening at leisure, immersing yourself in the serene atmosphere of Hue. Overnight in the hotel, preparing for the adventures that lie ahead.

Start your day by enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, and then prepare for a captivating exploration of the Citadel, a former Imperial City filled with remarkable royal monuments. Accompanied by our knowledgeable local guide, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history and architectural wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Next, embark on a scenic cruise along the Huong River aboard a traditional dragon boat, taking in the breathtaking beauty of Hue's surroundings. The journey will include a stop at the Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist symbol in Hue, where you can witness local religious practices and appreciate the spiritual significance of this revered site.

Afterward, it will be time to indulge in a delectable lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Hue's cuisine. Energized and refreshed, you will continue your adventure by visiting the historic tomb of Tu Duc, a site that carries immense historical and cultural significance.

To immerse yourself further in the local culture, our guide will lead you to the bustling Dong Ba Market, where you can explore and experience the vibrant atmosphere. The market offers a charming array of local products, providing an opportunity to engage with the local community.

As the day draws to a close, you will return to your hotel in Hue, where you will spend the night, ensuring a comfortable and restful stay before your next day of exploration.

After concluding your exploration of the ancient citadel, your next destination is the charming and picturesque ancient town of Hoi An. To reach Hoi An, you will embark on a scenic journey along the awe-inspiring Hai Van Pass. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to make stops at the Cham Museum and the Marble Mountains in Danang, where you can admire their cultural and natural beauty.

Upon arrival in Hoi An, you will be treated to a delightful local lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can savor the flavors of the region. Following lunch, you will proceed to check in at your hotel, allowing you to settle in and enjoy some leisure time at your own pace.

In the afternoon, a captivating walking adventure awaits you as you explore the enchanting Old Quarter of Hoi An. Immerse yourself in the wonders of the Chinese Embassy Halls, the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, the elegant Phuc Kien Pagoda, and the historic Tan Ky House. These architectural and cultural gems will leave you in awe of Hoi An's rich heritage. As the day nears its end, you will have the chance to enjoy some well-deserved free time for shopping or simply unwinding.

You will spend the night in Hoi An, ensuring a comfortable and restful stay, as you prepare for more memorable experiences in this captivating town.

After breakfast, meet your local guide and head to Tra Que, where you will discover the uses of vegetables in both food and medicine. As you travel along small roads through rice fields, you'll have the chance to capture photos of buffalo, cows, and farmers engaged in their daily routines, all while soaking in the stunning views of the Hoi An countryside and connecting with the warm-hearted local farmers.

At Tra Que Vegetable Village, a traditional craft village, enjoy “É Water”, a health-promoting tea made from garden herbs. Donning a farmer's uniform and conical hat, you will experience the age-old practice of growing organic vegetables.

Upon returning to a local home, indulge in a soothing massage for your head, shoulders, and feet, using herbs from the garden. After this rejuvenating experience, you will participate in a cooking class, learn to create beautiful flowers from vegetables like carrots, tomatoes, and spring onions. You will then prepare five delicious dishes, including rice and stir-fried morning glory with garlic.

Finally, enjoy your lunch after the cooking class (with vegetarian options available upon request). After a delightful day, take some time to rest before returning to your hotel in Hoi An.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Hoi An at your own pace. Once a bustling trading port, this town now showcases a captivating blend of architectural styles, reflecting Chinese, Japanese, and French colonial influences. The charming lantern-lit streets and picturesque riverside views invite exploration, while lively markets offer a vibrant array of handicrafts and local delicacies. Stroll through the bustling markets filled with handmade treasures and colorful textiles, or unwind at a riverside café, savoring a Vietnamese coffee as you watch the world go by.

Once you have enjoyed a satisfying breakfast, you will be transferred to Danang in preparation for your flight to Ho Chi Minh. Upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh, you can proceed with the check-in process at your hotel. Overnight in hotel.

Start your morning with a visit to the Independence Palace, also known as the Reunification Palace, built on the site of the former Norodom Palace. This iconic landmark of Ho Chi Minh City was designed by architect Ngo Viet Thu and reflects the city's rich history. Next, you'll admire the beautiful structures from the French colonial era, including the Notre Dame Cathedral and the historic Central Post Office. Continue to the War Remnants Museum, which features extensive displays on both the Indochina wars, offering profound insights into the impact of conflict on Vietnam.

After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, depart for the Cu Chi Tunnels, with a journey of approximately one and a half hours by bus. Upon arrival, you will receive a brief introduction and watch a video detailing how the tunnels were constructed and how people survived in the harsh conditions of wartime. Explore the extensive tunnel systems, which include specially constructed living areas with kitchens and bedrooms, alongside military facilities like storage rooms, weapons factories, field hospitals, and command centers that catered to the needs of those living underground. You will also discover hidden trap doors and dangerous traps designed for security during the war.

After your exploration, enjoy a serving of special tea and cassava, a staple food for guerrillas during the conflict. There will be a break for relaxation or an opportunity for those interested to try shooting real guns.

Finally, return to Saigon for an overnight stay at your hotel, reflecting on a day rich in history and culture.

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at the hotel before we set off for Ben Tre Province, nestled in the heart of the Mekong River Delta. Renowned for its lush tropical fruit orchards and traditional coconut crafts, Ben Tre offers a unique glimpse into local life. We’ll visit a pineapple and coconut orchard, where you can savor the fresh tropical fruits and witness the art of coconut candy production at a local workshop.

Next, we will take a Motor Cart (xe lôi) to a charming family-run mat-making workshop. Here, you will engage with local artisans and learn about the traditional techniques they’ve preserved for generations. As we travel along the narrow, shaded streets, take a moment to soak in the serene beauty of the Mekong villages.

Lunch will be served at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy authentic regional flavors. Afterward, embark on a tranquil sampan ride along the picturesque canals, surrounded by lush palm forests. We will return via a motorized boat to Hung Vuong Wharf, where our vehicle will be waiting to take us back to Saigon.

Once we arrive, you will have free time to explore the vibrant city at your leisure, allowing you to immerse yourself in its rich culture and dynamic atmosphere.

Following a relaxed and leisurely breakfast, you are free to engage in some last-minute shopping or simply wait until your departure flight. Take advantage of this time to purchase any final souvenirs or mementos to commemorate your trip. When the designated transfer time arrives, our team will assist you in reaching the airport for your onward journey. This marks the end of our services, and we sincerely hope that you have had a memorable and fulfilling experience during your time with us.