Explore Mekong and Red River Delta | Vietnam Authentic Tour – 11 Days

Ho Chi Minh City arrival, welcome and transfer to hotel

Landing at the Tan Son Nhat airport, you are welcomed by professional tour guide and driver at the pickup lobby. On the 30-minute driving from the airport to the city center, your tour guide will introduce you about the highlights of the city, and share the experiences of eating and drinking, traffic, culture....

On arrival, transfer to your hotel.

Note: Hotel check in time at 14.00

Included:
English speaking guide
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Elios Hotel(Senior Superior Room)
233 Pham Ngu Lao street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Discovering Saigon city with the best highlights: Independence palace, Binh Tay market, China town, Quan Am pagoda and Fito Museum of traditional medicine

9:00 AM: Start your morning with a visit to the Independence Palace, formerly the home and office of South Vietnamese Presidents. This historical site includes the famous North Vietnamese tank that captured the palace in 1975, effectively ending the Vietnam War. Explore the five-story building, with its rooms preserved in their 1960s and 1970s style, and discover the elaborate bunker that lies beneath.
Afterward, take a leisurely walk through Saigon, beginning with the Notre Dame Cathedral. This grand edifice, constructed between 1863 and 1880, showcases the elegance of French colonial architecture and remains a cherished landmark in the city. Stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street, a bustling pedestrian area that highlights Saigon's vibrant urban landscape.

Next, visit the Saigon Central Post Office, an architectural marvel designed by Gustave Eiffel. Its ornate interior makes it a working post office unlike any other, combining functionality with historical beauty.

From there, take a short drive to Binh Tay Market, the largest market in Saigon’s Chinatown. Here, you’ll find a rich variety of goods, from clothing and souvenirs to fresh produce and street food. Enjoy exploring the food court, where you can sample a range of local culinary delights.

Proceed to Quan Am Pagoda, one of the city’s oldest temples, dedicated to Guan Yin. This serene spot offers a glimpse into the local blend of Taoism and folk worship.

Finally, visit the FITO Museum, which houses an extensive collection of traditional medicine artifacts, including herbal remedies, ancient concoctions, and rare tools. This museum provides an intriguing look into the history and practice of Vietnamese traditional medicine.

At the end of the day, you’ll be transported back to your hotel, reflecting on a day rich with historical, cultural, and culinary experiences.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Elios Hotel(Senior Superior Room)
233 Pham Ngu Lao street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

From Saigon to Mekong discovery: Boat trip & biking in Ben Tre, visiting typical craft village, interact local people, garden tour, overnight in a homestay

8:00 AM: Set off on an exciting journey to Ben Tre, a charming gem in the Mekong Delta known for its delectable coconut candy. Arrive at Hung Vuong Wharf and embark on a scenic boat ride along the Ben Tre River, where you’ll get an intimate look at local life and traditions.

Continue your river journey as you navigate through a tranquil canal to Nhon Thanh Town. Here, you'll have the opportunity to savor fresh, tropical fruits and take in the picturesque views of verdant rice paddies, lush vegetable gardens, and expansive coconut groves. Explore the charming villages by bike or tuk-tuk, immersing yourself in the serene rural landscape.

Enjoy a flavorful lunch featuring the region's specialty, elephant ear fish, before taking a leisurely stroll through the town to delve deeper into the local culture. Next, unwind with a serene boat ride along a narrow canal shaded by wild palm trees, adding a touch of natural beauty to your adventure.

Afterwards, travel for about an hour to Cai Lay. Upon arrival, receive a warm welcome from your homestay host. Dive into the local culinary scene by participating in the preparation of Banh Xeo Nam Bo, a traditional Vietnamese dish. Relish your homemade meal and spend the night in the welcoming comfort of Cai Lay, reflecting on a day rich with cultural and culinary experiences.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Boat: Ben Tre
Private transportation
Tuk Tuk: Ben Tre
Cooking class: Ben Tre homestay
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Hai My's Homestay(Standard Room)
864 Provincial street, Dong Hoa hamlet, Tam Binh village, Cai Lay district, Tien Giang , Vietnam

Mekong discovery: Enjoying fruit garden tour, Kien An Cung pagoda, Huynh Thuy Le's house

Begin with breakfast at the homestay, then enjoy a bike ride (1 to 1.5 hours) from Dong Hoa to Tam Binh, where you'll pass through lush gardens of durian, sapota, and longan. Along the way, you’ll have opportunities to meet local people and explore a village market. Return to the homestay for refreshments.

If you wish to extend your adventure, you can opt for a 1-hour walk along a trail with a local guide and cycle to Ngu Hiep Island, an area enriched by the Mekong River's alluvial deposits, offering a truly authentic experience. If biking isn’t your choice, you may request a motorbike from our guide and ride as a passenger.

After your activities, transfer to Long Xuyen, making a stop in Sa Dec to visit the Kien An Cung Pagoda and Huynh Thuy Le’s house, which inspired Marguerite Duras' novel "L’Amant – The Lover." Explore the vibrant Sa Dec market, known for its variety of fruits, vegetables, and fish. Continue your journey to Long Xuyen to see a Cao Dai temple and a crocodile farm before spending the night at a hotel in Long Xuyen.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Bike: Ben Tre
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Hoa Binh 1 Hotel(Standard Room)
130 Tran Hung Dao street, Long Xuyen city, An Giang , Vietnam

Mekong discovery: Long Xuyen floating village, Cu Lao Ong Ho island. Back to Ho Chi Minh City

In the morning, transfer to the floating market and floating village in Long Xuyen which are animated and authentic on a small tributary of the Mekong River. Discover the daily activities of people living by the river. Enjoy a boat trip to Cu Lao Ong Ho where there is a small museum about our famous president Ton Duc Thang. Take a bike ride on the island and enjoy the beauty of the peaceful landscapes.

Take the road back to Saigon and check in your hotel in late afternoon.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Boat: Long Xuyen
Private transportation
Bike: Long Xuyen
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Elios Hotel(Senior Superior Room)
233 Pham Ngu Lao street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Special excursion to Cu Chi tunnels and then visiting Cao Dai temple, flying to Hanoi

8:00 AM: Leave your accommodation for a profound exploration of the Cu Chi Tunnels, an iconic and haunting vestige of the Vietnam War. This sprawling underground network, extending over 250 kilometers, was meticulously carved out over twenty years by the Viet Cong using only pickaxes and shovels. As you delve into a section of these historic tunnels, you'll gain an intimate understanding of the guerrilla warfare tactics employed here. Visit the Ben Duoc Memorial Temple, a solemn tribute established in 1993, to honor those who perished at Cu Chi and enjoy its relative tranquility away from the usual tourist crowds.

Continue your journey to the Cao Dai Temple, a remarkable spiritual site in Vietnam. Caodaism, an intriguing religion with influences from Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, and even Roman Catholicism, is vividly represented here. Experience the midday mass at this strikingly colorful temple, and soak in its unique religious atmosphere.

Following your temple visit, savor a meal at a local restaurant before heading back to the city center. Fly to Hanoi, where you'll be met at Noi Bai Airport by a friendly local guide and driver. Enjoy a scenic 45-minute drive to Hanoi's Old Quarter, receiving a brief overview of the city's highlights, culture, and culinary scene. Check into your hotel upon arrival and take the rest of the day to relax and rejuvenate.

Please note: Check-in time is from 2:00 PM.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Flight :VN256 (SGN - HAN) - (Direct) / 20:45 - 22:50 - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 06 tickets
Conifer Grand Hotel(ROH Room)
42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Exploring the center of culture & education Van Mieu, outstanding museum of ethnology, visiting French Quarter and discovering Old town

9:00 AM: Start your exploration at the Temple of Literature, a historic site established in the 11th century under the Ly Dynasty to honor Confucius and educate the royal children. Enjoy a tranquil walk through its lush gardens and admire the Khue Van Cac, or Pavilion of the Constellation of Literature, a symbol of the city. Discover the "stone steles" inscribed with the names of distinguished scholars and explore Quoc Tu Giam, the first national university in Vietnam.

Next, delve into Vietnamese culture at the Ethnology Museum (closed on Mondays). This museum offers an in-depth look at the diverse ethnic groups of Vietnam through traditional costumes, tools, and cultural exhibits. Allow about two hours to fully experience this fascinating museum.

In the early afternoon, explore the French Quarter, a charming area reminiscent of Paris with its tree-lined streets, colonial architecture, and grand square. Visit the exterior of Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the surrounding gardens. Explore the Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house, where he lived and worked.

Continue your visit to the One Pillar Pagoda, a unique and iconic structure of Hanoi. Spend 1 to 2 hours exploring this historic site, including the nearby Ba Da Pagoda, tucked away near the Hanoi Cathedral, a fine example of French colonial architecture.

Wander through Hanoi’s traditional streets, such as Lan Ong Street, known for its herbal medicine shops, and Lo Ren Street, famous for its metalwork. Stop by Dong Xuan Market, the largest in Hanoi, for a taste of local life and vibrant market scenes.

As evening falls, head to Ta Hien Street, a lively hotspot known for its street food and bustling atmosphere. Sample local dishes and drinks amidst the vibrant street life. End your day with a captivating water puppet show, an ancient Vietnamese tradition showcasing daily life and folklore through puppetry on water, often accompanied by traditional music.

Return to your hotel and relax after a day filled with cultural exploration and local experiences.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Leisure: Water puppet
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Conifer Grand Hotel(ROH Room)
42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

From Hanoi to Ninh Binh, biking to Thung La temple and then a boat trip in Van Long Nature Reserve, embroidering experience

At 8:00 AM, Depart from Hanoi and journey to Ninh Binh, traversing the picturesque rice and vegetable fields of the Red River Delta. Upon arrival, you have the option to take a 15km bike ride or a leisurely walk through charming local villages. As you explore, you'll be treated to stunning views of rice paddies, meandering rivers, and dramatic limestone mountains. Stop along the way to capture breathtaking photos and immerse yourself in the rural ambiance.

Next, head to Thung La Temple, an 11th-century site steeped in history. Here, you'll meet Mr. Tuong, the temple’s caretaker, who will share insights into the temple’s heritage and present a brief drum performance.

Following your temple visit, embark on a sampan boat ride through serene waterways and among towering limestone formations in the Van Long Nature Reserve. Keep your eyes peeled for white monkeys and egrets perched on the cliffs, adding to the enchanting landscape.

After the boat ride, visit a local weaving village where you will have the opportunity to participate in a weaving workshop led by Mrs. Lam, a skilled local craftswoman. She will guide you through the traditional techniques of this ancient craft, allowing you to try your hand at weaving and learn about the intricate artistry involved.

Return to your base, enriched by the day’s cultural experiences and natural beauty.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Boat: Van Long
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Bike: Ninh Binh
Leisure: Thung La temple music
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Conifer Grand Hotel(ROH Room)
42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Cruising in Bai Tu Long bay, exploring Cap La Island, cooking class and overnight on boat

8:00 AM: Begin your day with a pickup from your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter. Embark on a scenic three-hour drive to Bai Tu Long Bay, passing through charming villages and rice fields in the Red River Delta. Stop for a drink and restroom break en route. Arrive at the harbor around noon and receive a warm welcome at the cruise reception.

11:30 - 11:45 AM: Upon arrival at Ha Long International Cruise Port, relax in the waiting lounge while the captain completes the registration. You will then transfer to the boat by tender.

12:00 - 12:15 PM: Enjoy a welcome drink and a safety briefing before checking into your cabin.

13:00: Relish a Vietnamese set menu lunch as the boat cruises deeper into Bai Tu Long Bay.

15:00: Arrive at Cap La Island for kayaking amidst stunning karst formations. Enjoy swimming and relaxing in the beautiful surroundings.

17:40: Return to the boat for the Sunset Party as we head to our anchorage for the night. Join a Vietnamese cooking class to learn how to make a traditional dish like Nem Cuon, or try fruit and vegetable carving.

19:00: Indulge in a delicious set dinner onboard.

20:30 - 22:00: Spend your evening exploring Vietnamese puzzle games, enjoying board games with friends or family, trying squid fishing, or simply unwinding with a cocktail while taking in the peaceful night on the bay.

Included:
Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Halong
English speaking guide (on board)
Meal: B, L, D
Entrance fees
Kayak: Halong
Leisure: Swimming
Cooking class: Halong (on board) - cooking demonstration
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Swan Cruise - 2D1N(Deluxe Cabin)
3 Dang Thai Than street, Hoan Kien district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Visiting the charm of Thien Canh Son cave, stunning cruising and back to Hanoi

06:30 AM: Join a sunrise Tai Chi session on the sundeck or enjoy the serene morning views of the bay with a cup of tea or coffee.

07:00 AM: A Western-style breakfast will be served to prepare you for the day’s activities.

07:45 AM: Explore the remote Thien Canh Son Cave.

09:00 AM: Head back to the boat to freshen up and complete your packing in the next 30 minutes.

09:30 AM: Check out from the boat.

10:00 AM: Savor a traditional Vietnamese lunch while still on board.

10:30 AM: Depart for the harbor.

11:15 - 11:30 AM: Disembark at Ha Long Cruise Port.
You will be greeted by a driver who will take you back to Hanoi, including a rest stop during the journey. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter.

Included:
English speaking guide (on board)
Meal: B, L
Entrance fees
Leisure: Morning Tai Chi
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Conifer Grand Hotel(ROH Room)
42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Transferring to airport for flights to next destinations

Private driver will pick you up at the hotel lobby (Hanoi Old Quarter) for about 45 minutes to Noi Bai airport (international or domestic hall according to your request). Thanks for the visit to our city.

Note: International flights require you to be at the airport 3 hours and domestic is 2 hours before departure time.

Included:
Meal: B
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day