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From Hanoi to Saigon: Vietnam Traverse | Authentic Tour – 17 Days

17 Days
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A unique trail to get you inside the heart of each destination. Experience the authentic culture of local people, immerse yourself into the stunning landscapes from the North to the South of Vietnam…

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Overview

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Overview

Start/End: Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Visit: Hanoi – Mai Chau – Pu Luong – Ninh Binh – Hai Phong – Lan Ha bay – Hoi An – My Son – Hue – Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Tay Ninh – Ben Tre – Long Xuyen

Duration: 17 Days

Travel style: Authentic, Mountain & Minority, Culture and Heritage, Nature & Discover

Category: Private tour

Tour schedule: Daily departure

Tour guide in: English, Français, Español, Deutsch, Italiano

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Highlights

  • Bustling Hanoi Capital, dynamic Saigon City
  • The Thai, Muong minority groups in Mai Chau
  • Heritage destinations: Bay, Hue ancient capital, Hoi An ancient town, My Son Sanctuary
  • Overnight on Bay, Mekong Delta
  • Historical, cultural, local life and stunning landscapes experience
  • Interact with locals,
  • Visit local artisans
  • Traditional floating market
  • Biking, boating, cooking...
  • Less touristic

Itinerary

Welcome to Hanoi, enjoy a walking tour in the old quarter

Landing at the Noi Bai airport, you are welcomed by professional tour guide and driver at the pickup lobby. Enjoy 45-minute driving to the city center (Hanoi Old Quarter) with city's briefing information about the most visited spots, culture, traffic and cuisine....Arrive in your hotel, check in and have a rest.

Note: Hotel check in time at 14.00

Start with a small pagoda named Ba Da quietly located in a small alley - only few steps from the Hanoi Great Cathedral, built by French colonialism since the 19th century. Your tour guide also takes you to typical streets of Hanoi such as Lan Ong Street selling traditional medicine, Lo Ren Street where metal items are produced ... Stop to visit the Dong Xuan central market - the largest in Hanoi. Continue walking to the famous area for night activities and street food - Ta Hien street, where you can see the vibrant streets with a lot of the amazing local foods and drinks. Trying to taste some for an unforgettable experience.

Note: If your flight arrives late or you are jet leg after long flight, the walking tour will be moved to the city tour day.

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

Day 2 :
Hanoi

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

9:00 AM: Embark on a cultural journey starting at the Temple of Literature, a historic sanctuary built in the eleventh century under the Ly dynasty to revere Confucius and educate royal offspring.

Meander through the tranquil grounds, soaking in the serene atmosphere, and make your way to Khue Van Cac, Hanoi’s emblematic monument. Admire the ancient "stone steles," engraved with the names of Vietnam’s brightest scholars, before exploring Quoc Tu Giam, the nation’s very first university.

Afterwards, make your way to the Ethnology Museum. Although it’s closed on Mondays, when open, the museum provides a rich tapestry of Vietnam's cultural diversity. Spend a couple of hours delving into its extensive collections of traditional dwellings, artifacts, garments, and musical instruments from various ethnic groups.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the elegance of Hanoi's French Quarter, often dubbed the city's "little Paris." Wander through its spacious squares, grand government buildings, and tree-lined boulevards. Take in the exterior of Ho Chi Minh's mausoleum, then enjoy a leisurely stroll through the lush botanical gardens. Discover the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh’s former residence and workspace, before heading to the iconic One-Pillar Pagoda, a notable landmark of the city. Depending on your group size, this exploration may take between one to two hours.

Wrap up your day with a captivating water puppet show. This traditional art form, which dates back to the eleventh century, features vibrant puppets performing on water, vividly depicting Vietnamese folklore, daily life, and spiritual beliefs, often set to the backdrop of live traditional music.

Return to your hotel for a relaxing evening, reflecting on a day rich with cultural exploration and discovery.

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

Visiting Muong village, scenic views at Thung Khe pass, exploring Thai culture in Mai Hich then overnight in homestay

8:00 AM: Begin your adventure as you arrive in Mai Chau, where you'll be greeted by your driver and tour guide. On your way, stop at a traditional Muong village, where you can immerse yourself in local culture. Continue your journey through the majestic Thung Khe Pass, which offers panoramic views of the verdant valley below, before reaching the charming Mai Chau town.

Located 145 kilometers from Hanoi, this picturesque valley is renowned for its serene landscapes, lush mountain ranges, terraced rice paddies, and traditional White Thai villages.

Upon arriving in Mai Hich village, check into your accommodation and enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by your host. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the village’s paved and dirt paths. The scenic beauty of the surrounding villages, expansive rice fields, rolling mountains, and gentle streams creates a captivating landscape. Be sure to seize the opportunity to engage with the friendly locals, who are often eager to invite you for a cup of tea and share their stories.

Continue your exploration with a trek through the countryside, passing through small, picturesque settlements and vibrant rice paddies. Your journey will lead you to Xam Khoe, a hidden gem of a Thai village that remains largely off the tourist radar. Here, you can experience a harmonious blend of rich cultural traditions and breathtaking natural beauty. After this immersive experience, a vehicle will transport you back to your lodging for a restful evening.

Note: Private traditional music and dancing show by local people is available with extra cost of $35/group. Please ask our guide to reserve if you are interested in.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Mai Hich Homestay (Sharing homestay)
Mai Hich commune, Mai Chau district, Hoa Binh , Vietnam

Excursion to Muong community in Eo Ken & Ban Hang villages

8:00 AM: Depart from Mai Hich and head directly to Eo Ken, located 30 km away, where the Muong ethnic group resides. Descend the slope to take in the breathtaking views of Pu Luong Nature Reserve, with its rice terraces and mountainous scenery. Visit a Muong family in Eo Ken village to experience their traditional way of life. Continue your walk through the picturesque landscape, crossing a stream to reach Hang Village.

You’ll then be picked up by car and transferred to Mai Chau for lunch.
Afterward, continue your journey to Ninh Binh, making stops along the way to interact with locals and capture photographs at your leisure. Arrive in Ninh Binh in the late afternoon and check into your accommodation.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Nep House(Double Room)
Lang Noi, Lang Van, Gia Lap, Gia Vien, Ninh Binh , Vietnam

Biking to Thung La temple and then a boat trip in Van Long Nature Reserve, embroidering experience

8:00 AM: Start your day with an invigorating bike ride, choosing between a 10 km route (one way) or a 20 km round trip along the scenic dyke. The route offers spectacular views of sprawling rice paddies, winding rivers, and dramatic limestone peaks. Feel free to pause along the way to snap photos or chat with local residents. Your ride will lead you to the ancient Thung La Temple, a revered site from the 11th century, where you can immerse yourself in the traditional sounds of Vietnamese musical instruments that echo the spiritual heritage of the region.

Next, embark on a serene sampan boat journey through the Van Long Nature Reserve. As you drift through the calm waters amidst towering limestone formations, keep a lookout for rare white monkeys and graceful egrets that might make an appearance. This tranquil boat ride offers a unique vantage point to appreciate the reserve's natural splendor.

Afterward, visit a local embroidery village where you'll have the opportunity to engage in an embroidery workshop with Mrs. Lam, a local artisan renowned for her skill. Under her guidance, learn the intricate techniques of traditional Vietnamese embroidery and create your own handcrafted piece.

Conclude your day by returning your bike to the homestay and bidding farewell to your warm hosts. Set off for Hanoi, enjoying a picturesque drive through the Red River Delta. Take in the stunning views of lush rice fields and peaceful rural landscapes, making sure to capture the beauty of the countryside with your camera.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B
Boat: Van Long
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Bike: Tam Coc
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 from Halong to Lan Ha bay, swimming & kayaking, cooking class

9:00 AM: Pick up from your hotel in Hanoi's Old Quarter and embark on a scenic two-and-a-half-hour drive to Lan Ha Bay via National Highway No5B. Along the way, you'll pass through charming villages and lush rice fields of the Red River Delta. A short stop will be made for refreshments and rest before continuing to the harbor around noon, where you’ll receive a warm welcome at the cruise reception.

12:00 PM: Arrive at Tuan Chau Port in Quang Ninh province, where the Peony Cruises team will greet you.

12:30 PM: Transfer to our support vessel for a brief ride across the bay to board the luxurious Peony Cruises. During this time, you’ll be given an overview of the itinerary.

1:00 PM: Enjoy a refreshing welcome with drinks and wet towels, followed by a special lunch featuring a variety of fresh and delectable dishes. We’ll then set sail for Lan Ha Bay, known for its stunning natural beauty.

3:30 PM: Explore the Tra Bau area, celebrated for its pristine, picturesque landscapes. This is the perfect opportunity for kayaking around the limestone islands. Alternatively, relax in the emerald waters of the bay or enjoy the Jacuzzi pool on board.

5:30 PM - 6:30 PM: Participate in a cooking demonstration to learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese spring rolls. Or, head to the top deck to witness a breathtaking sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin. Enjoy the Happy Hour with a BUY ONE GET ONE FREE offer at the bar, an excellent time for capturing sunset photos.

7:30 PM: Delight in a romantic dinner featuring local cuisine, expertly prepared by our chef.

9:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Unwind with exotic cocktails and drinks at the sky bar (with a surcharge), or pamper yourself with a spa treatment (optional). Alternatively, enjoy a peaceful evening on the top deck or try squid fishing on the main deck.

Included:
Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau
English speaking guide (on board)
Meal: B, L, D
Entrance fees
Kayak: Halong
Leisure: Swimming,Squid fishing
Cooking class: Halong (on board) - cooking demonstration
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Peony Cruise - 2D1N(Deluxe Balcony Cabin)
5/33B Pham Ngu Lao street, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Exploring Trung Trang Cave, visiting Cat Ba National park, Transferring back to Hanoi for a flight to Danang - Hoi An

7:30 AM - 9:00 AM: Begin your day with a tour of Cat Ba World Biosphere. Transfer from Gia Luan to Trung Trang Cave, a remarkable limestone cave on Cat Ba Island. The cave, known for its stunning array of stalactites, offers significant geological interest and a typical cave ecosystem.

9:30 AM: Return to the main boat to check out of your cabin. Please place your luggage outside the cabin for collection.
Enjoy an early lunch at the restaurant and settle any bar bills at the restaurant desk if applicable.

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM: Disembark from the Peony Cruises and transfer back to Tuan Chau Port.

11:30 AM - 12:00 PM: Arrive at Tuan Chau Port and prepare for your journey back to Hanoi.

A driver will meet you at the harbor for the two-and-a-half-hour drive back to Hanoi via the new Highway No5B, passing through the scenic Red River Delta and local villages. You will be dropped off at your hotel in Hanoi's Old Quarter.

A private driver will then pick you up from your hotel lobby for a 45-minute transfer to Noi Bai Airport (either international or domestic hall based on your flight). Remember to arrive at the airport 3 hours before your international flight and 2 hours before a domestic flight.

Upon landing at Da Nang Airport, a professional tour guide and driver will greet you at the pickup lobby. Enjoy a 30-45 minute drive to your accommodation, with the tour guide providing an introduction to the city’s highlights, dining options, traffic tips, and cultural insights.

Arrive at your hotel, check in, and take some time to relax.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Leisure: Morning Tai Chi
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Flight :VN181 (HAN - DAD) - (Direct) / 16:10 - 17:40 - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 06 tickets
Delicacy Hotel & Spa(Deluxe City View Room)
116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam

Day 8 :
Hoi An

Discovering Hoi An rural by cycling and city walking tour

8:00 AM: Your adventure begins with a hotel pickup in the heart of Hoi An. Start by immersing yourself in the charm of Cam Pho, one of Hoi An’s oldest community houses. Designed in the shape of a Chinese character, this historic site is a living testament to the town’s vibrant past, reflecting its role in worship, trade, and cross-cultural exchange.

From Cam Pho, embark on a leisurely stroll to the legendary Chua Cau, or Japanese Covered Bridge. This 17th-century marvel, connecting the Chinese and Japanese districts, stands as a symbol of Hoi An's rich cultural tapestry and has been lovingly preserved through the ages.

As you wander through the town, soak in the authentic local atmosphere. Your next stop is the Quan Thang Ancient House, an architectural gem showcasing masterful wood carvings by artisans from the famed Kim Bong village. This house offers a window into the daily lives of Hoi An’s past, with its exquisite craftsmanship and timeless charm.

Next, venture to the Phuc Kien (Fujian) Assembly Hall before boarding a traditional ferry for a scenic crossing of the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong village. As you glide across the water, take in the lush landscapes and enjoy the refreshing river breeze.

Kim Bong village, renowned for its intricate wood carving, is a haven of artisanal talent. Discover how the village’s artisans have blended techniques from Northern Vietnam, China, and Japan into their unique style. Explore the village by bike, visit local workshops, and perhaps pick up a handcrafted wooden souvenir as a memento.

Continue your cycling journey to Tra Nhieu village, where you’ll experience the essence of rural Vietnam. Encounter local artisans such as Mr. Kha, who crafts bamboo baskets, Ms. Duoc, who weaves traditional mats, and Mr. Huynh Ri, a master shipbuilder. Marvel at the pastoral beauty of rice paddies, palm groves, and the hardworking farmers who bring the landscape to life.

Board a boat from Tra Nhieu for a serene ride along the Thu Bon River to Cam Thanh village. This tranquil journey offers breathtaking views of water palm trees and traditional fishing farms, setting the stage for a relaxing afternoon.

Arrive at Cam Thanh and unwind at the home of fisherman Mr. Phong. Enjoy a soothing green tea and a foot massage with herbs from the family’s garden. Then, roll up your sleeves for a hands-on cooking class featuring fresh ingredients from Tra Que village. Learn to prepare traditional Hoi An dishes such as grilled fish wrapped in banana leaves, spring rolls, and crispy pancakes, and savor the fruits of your labor.

To cap off your day, take a peaceful ride in a round bamboo sampan basket boat through the lush water palm grove. This serene boat ride is the perfect finale to your day of exploration and adventure.
Return to your hotel in the evening, carrying with you the memories of a day rich with cultural discovery and scenic beauty.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Boat: Cam Thanh,Tra Nhieu - Cam Thanh
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Bike: Hoi An
Leisure: Foot massage
Cooking class: Cam Thanh
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Delicacy Hotel & Spa(Deluxe City View Room)
116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam

Exploring My Son Sanctuary, Champa culture, unique architecture.

8:00 AM: Pick up by tour guide and driver from your hotel. Spend a half day for an excursion to the sacred valley of the Champa Kingdom. Located 40km from Hoi An Town, My Son was once the most important intellectual and religious center of the kingdom of Champa and may also have served as a burial place for Cham monarchs.

Recognized as a World Culture Heritage site by UNESCO, the site preserves the 70 ruined architecture works of bricks and stones built between the 7th and 13th century. Your tour guide will explain to you all the cultural, historical and architecture values as you leisurely visit each relic. Tour also enrich with an attending to the traditional Champa dancing show before leaving the sanctuary.

After the excursion, travel back to city, free to explore town or leisure on beach.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Delicacy Hotel & Spa(Deluxe City View Room)
116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam

Travelling to Hue, visiting Cham sculpture museum, Hai Van Pass, Thien Mu Pagoda and Hue citadel

8:00 AM: Heading towards Hue with a picturesque detour through Da Nang. Your first stop is the Cham Museum in Da Nang, renowned for housing the world’s most extensive collection of Cham artifacts. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Cham civilization as you explore its exquisite relics.

Next, take a stroll down to My Khe Beach. Here, you'll encounter the magnificent statues of Goodness of Mercy at the Linh Ung Pagoda, a tranquil spot offering a unique blend of spirituality and seaside beauty. Capture the essence of local life by photographing the fishermen as they go about their day near the shore.

As you drive along the coast towards Hue, make a memorable stop at Hai Van Pass. From this vantage point, marvel at the sweeping views of the ocean and the rugged coastline. The pass offers an exhilarating perspective of Vietnam’s natural splendor.

Upon reaching Hue, enjoy a delightful lunch before visiting the Thien Mu Pagoda. Established in 1601, this ancient pagoda is one of the city’s spiritual landmarks, celebrated for its striking octagonal tower and panoramic views of the Perfume River.

Your exploration continues with a visit to the Hue Citadel, a majestic remnant of Vietnam’s imperial past. Inspired by Vauban’s fortifications, the Citadel is a sprawling complex divided into three distinct areas: the Forbidden City (Cam Thanh), the Imperial City (Hoang Thanh), and the Capital City (Kinh Thanh). Discover the grandeur of this historical site as you visit its most iconic features, including the flag tower, the South Gate, the Palace of Supreme Harmony, the Dynasty Temple area, and the residential quarters.

Conclude your day by settling into your hotel in the historic capital of Hue, where you can unwind and reflect on a day of cultural and historical exploration.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Rosaleen Boutique Hotel(Deluxe Double Room)
36 Chu Van An street, Hue city, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam

Full day to Explore Hue, Boat trip Huong river, Ming Mang's tomb, Thuy Bieu village, flying to Ho Chi Minh city.

8:00 AM: Begin your day with a transfer to the serene Huong River (Perfume River), where you’ll board a traditional Royal boat for an enchanting cruise. As you glide along this picturesque river, you'll have the chance to glimpse local life unfolding along both riverbanks. Upon reaching Tien Non village, disembark and hop on a bike to explore the charming countryside. Your cycling journey will take you through three vibrant villages: Tien Non, Thanh Tien, and Sinh.

In Tien Non village, immerse yourself in the agricultural rhythms of local life as you observe villagers tending to their fields and vegetable gardens. Visit a traditional family worship house, where you’ll gain insight into local customs and spiritual practices. Next, pedal to Thanh Tien village, renowned for its century-old tradition of crafting artificial paper flowers. These intricate creations are especially made for the Lunar New Year festival to honor ancestors. At Mr. Hieu’s workshop, one of the village’s esteemed artisans, learn the art of paper flower making directly from the master.

Continue your cycling adventure to Sinh village, famed for its 400-year-old tradition of folklore printing. Meet Mr. Phuoc, a local expert who will guide you through the techniques of traditional printmaking. This visit offers an opportunity to discover beautiful and unique souvenirs that capture the essence of Hue’s cultural heritage. Afterward, return to the boat and cruise back to the city.

In the afternoon, journey to Khai Dinh King’s tomb, an architectural marvel completed over 11 years (1920-1931) atop Chau Tru Hill. Distinguished by its fusion of Eastern and Western architectural styles, the tomb requires a hundred-step climb to reach the ornate worship palace. Marvel at the stunning decor, featuring exquisite porcelain mosaics, a grand ceiling painting, and a small museum showcasing royal artifacts. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of the tomb and its scenic surroundings.

As the day concludes, transfer to Hue airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, you’ll be greeted by a professional tour guide and driver. During the 30-minute drive to the city center, your guide will provide an engaging introduction to Ho Chi Minh City’s highlights, including tips on dining, navigating the traffic, and local culture.
On arrival in the city, transfer to your hotel and unwind after a day filled with cultural exploration and discovery.

Note: Hotel check in time at 14.00

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B
Boat: Sinh - Tien Non
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Bike: Hue
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Flight :VN1375 (HUI - SGN) - (Direct) / 17:45 - 19:25 - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 06 tickets
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: Begin your exploration with a pickup from your hotel, heading to the iconic Independence Palace. Formerly the residence and office of South Vietnam’s presidents, this historical landmark is renowned for its role in the final chapter of the Vietnam War. As you tour the five-story building, you’ll see preserved rooms from the late 1960s and early 1970s, including the underground bunker. Don’t miss the North Vietnamese tank on display, which symbolically marked the end of a tumultuous era in 1975.

From the palace, embark on a leisurely city tour. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, an architectural gem built between 1863 and 1880. This splendid example of French colonial design is a serene spot amidst the bustling city.

Stroll towards Nguyen Hue Walking Street, a lively promenade that leads you to the Saigon Central Post Office, a masterpiece by the renowned architect Gustave Eiffel. Admire its elegant interior and appreciate the fact that this beautiful building remains an operational post office.

Next, enjoy a short drive to Binh Tay Market in Chinatown. This bustling market is a vibrant hub of activity, offering everything from local delicacies to clothing and souvenirs. Explore the myriad of stalls and savor some street food in the market’s food court, where you can sample a variety of local specialties.

Your journey continues to the Quan Am Pagoda, one of the city’s oldest temples, dedicated to Guan Yin, the Taoist goddess of mercy, and revered as the "Queen of Heaven." Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance and learn about the temple’s spiritual significance.

Finally, visit the Traditional Medicine Museum (FITO), where you’ll discover a fascinating collection of ancient remedies, herbal formulas, and unique medical artifacts. This museum provides a glimpse into the rich history and practices of traditional Vietnamese medicine.

At the end of this enriching day, you’ll be transported back to your hotel, ready to unwind and reflect on the diverse experiences you’ve encountered.

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

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

8:00 AM: Depart from your hotel for an immersive journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels, one of the most compelling sites from the Vietnam War era. This vast underground network, stretching over 250 kilometers, served as a hidden city for the Viet Cong during their resistance against American forces. Constructed over two decades with only pickaxes and shovels, the tunnels offer a unique glimpse into the resilience and ingenuity of the Viet Cong. Your tour will include an exploration of some of these tunnels, providing a firsthand experience of their scale and complexity.

Nearby, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Ben Duoc Memorial Temple. Less frequented by tourists, this somber memorial, established in 1993, honors the Vietnamese who lost their lives at Cu Chi, offering a more intimate and reflective experience.

Next, head to the Cao Dai Temple, one of Vietnam’s most distinctive spiritual sites. Cao Dai is a syncretic religion that blends elements of Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, and even Roman Catholicism into a unique spiritual practice. Witness the midday mass, a vibrant and colorful ritual that showcases the temple’s eclectic religious traditions.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant before returning to your hotel in the afternoon, concluding a day rich with historical insights and cultural exploration.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
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: Begin with a pickup from your hotel and transfer to Ben Tre, a charming region in the Mekong Delta celebrated for its coconut candy.

At Hung Vuong pier, board a boat to explore the Ben Tre River and observe local life. Continue by boat through a canal to Nhon Thanh Village, where you’ll have the opportunity to taste fresh local fruits. Choose between cycling or taking a tuk tuk along village paths to experience the coconut trees, rice fields, and vegetable gardens.

Savor a lunch of elephant ear fish at a local restaurant in the village. After lunch, take a short walk to gain a more in-depth understanding of village life, followed by a relaxing boat ride on a shaded canal lined with wild palm trees.

Depart Ben Tre for a one-hour transfer to Cai Lay. Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed by your homestay host. Participate in the preparation of Banh Xeo Nam Bo, a traditional dish from the region.
Enjoy dinner and spend the night at the homestay in Cai Lay.

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

Enjoy breakfast at your homestay before embarking on a bike ride (1-1.5 hours) from Dong Hoa to Tam Binh. The route takes you through gardens of durians, sapotas, and longans, and provides opportunities to interact with local villagers. Visit a local market to see a variety of regional goods.

Return to the homestay for a refreshing break. For an extended option, take a one-hour walk along a picturesque trail with a local guide, then cycle to Ngu Hiep Island, known for its rich, fertile gardens created by the Mekong River's alluvial deposits. If you prefer not to bike, ask your tour guide to arrange a motorbike for you.

In the afternoon, transfer to Long Xuyen with a stop at Sa Dec. Here, explore Kien An Cung Pagoda and the historic Huynh Thuy Le’s house, highlighted in Marguerite Duras's L’Amant – The Lover. Discover the local market's array of fresh produce and seafood. Continue to Long Xuyen, where you’ll visit a Cao Dai temple and a crocodile farm. Spend the night at a Long Xuyen hotel.

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

Transferring to airport for flights to next destinations

Private driver will pick you up at the hotel lobby for about 30 minutes to Tan Son Nhat 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.

In the rush hour (07:00 – 08:30 AM and 16:30 – 18:30 PM), it takes around 1 hour from city center to Tan Son Nhat airport.

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

Cost Includes

  • English speaking tour guide following itinerary
  • All entrance fees and tickets mention on itinerary
  • Selected Accommodations with daily breakfast
  • Cruise: Peony Cruise - 2D1N
  • Boat: Van Long, Cam Thanh, Tra Nhieu - Cam Thanh, Sinh - Tien Non, Ben Tre, Long Xuyen
  • Private car following itinerary
  • Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau
  • Flight Tickets: VN181 HAN - DAD (Vietnam Airlines - Economy) , VN1375 HUI - SGN (Vietnam Airlines - Economy)
  • Meal: Breakfast: 16, Lunch: 11, Dinner: 04
  • Bike: Tam Coc, Hoi An, Hue, Ben Tre, Long Xuyen
  • Kayak: Halong
  • Leisure: Water puppet, Thung La temple music, Swimming, Squid fishing, Morning Tai Chi, Foot massage
  • Tuk Tuk: Ben Tre
  • Cooking class: Halong (on board) - cooking demonstration, Cam Thanh, Ben Tre homestay
  • Service charges and Taxes

Cost Excludes

  • International flight from/to your country
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Tipping and Gratuities
  • Other not mentioned in the program
What does the tour package include?

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The package includes accommodation, daily breakfast, selected meals, private transportation, entrance fees to attractions, and an English-speaking tour guide.

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Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?

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Absolutely! The tour is designed for solo travelers, couples, and groups, featuring a private guide and vehicle for a personalized experience.

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What should I pack for this tour?

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We recommend packing light, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear for Lan Ha Bay, and a light jacket for cooler evenings.

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When is the best time to take this tour?

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The best time to visit Vietnam is generally from October to April when the weather is cooler and drier, although the tour can be enjoyed year-round.

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How do I book this tour?

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You can book the tour through our website or by contacting our customer service team. A deposit is required to secure your booking.

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You can send your enquiry via the form below.

From Hanoi to Saigon: Vietnam Traverse | Authentic Tour – 17 Days
From $1,407
/ Adult
  • Best Price Guaranteed
  • No Booking Fees
  • Professional Local Guide