Mekong Delta and Northern Minority Culture | Vietnam Classic Tour – 13 Days

Ho Chi Minh City arrival, welcome and transfer to hotel

As you land at Tan Son Nhat Airport, you’ll be welcomed by our knowledgeable tour guide and driver at the arrivals section. During the 30-minute drive to the city center, your guide will brief you on the city’s attractions and offer insights into local cuisine, transportation, and cultural practices.

Once you arrive in the city, you will be transferred 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

Saigon City full day tour to visit Independence palace, Walking tour, War Remnant museum, Ben Thanh market

9:00 AM: Begin your day with a pick-up from your hotel and head to the Independence Palace, a symbol of Vietnam's modern history. This grand building, once the official residence and office of South Vietnamese presidents, played a pivotal role in the Vietnam War. Here, you’ll encounter the historic North Vietnamese tank that breached the palace in 1975, signaling the war’s dramatic conclusion. Explore the palace’s five stories, preserved in their 1960s and 70s styles, and discover the intriguing bunker beneath.

Next, enjoy a relaxed city tour. Your first stop is the Notre Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of French colonial architecture built between 1863 and 1880. Its charming design and tranquil atmosphere offer a serene escape from the bustling city.

Stroll to Nguyen Hue Walking Street, where you’ll encounter the Saigon Central Post Office, a stunning creation by the famous architect Gustave Eiffel. This active post office is renowned for its beautiful interior and historic charm.

Pause for a leisurely lunch or a refreshing drink (at your own expense), and then visit the War Remnants Museum. This highly regarded museum provides a deep and often poignant exploration of the Vietnam War, presenting perspectives that may broaden your understanding of the conflict.

Conclude your day at Ben Thanh Market, one of the city’s most vibrant and historic markets, operating since 1870. Browse through a variety of stalls offering affordable souvenirs and savor the flavors of local street food.

Return to your hotel in the evening. Relax after your day of exploration or take some time to discover more of the city’s lively streets on your own.

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: Embark on an journey from your accommodation to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an emblematic site of Vietnam War history. Dive into the depths of this extraordinary underground labyrinth, stretching over 250 kilometers. Discover how the Viet Cong constructed this subterranean city with nothing but pickaxes and shovels over two decades, creating a remarkable network of hiding spots and strategic passages. Experience the thrill of entering some of these historic tunnels and visit the lesser-explored Ben Duoc Memorial Temple, a poignant tribute built in 1993 to honor the fallen Vietnamese soldiers of Cu Chi.

From the tunnels, continue your adventure with a shuttle ride to the Cao Dai Temple, one of Vietnam’s most sacred and visually stunning sites. Immerse yourself in the unique world of Caodaism, a distinctive religion that melds elements of Taoism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and even Roman Catholicism. If the timing is right, witness the midday mass a vibrant and colorful ceremony that offers a glimpse into this eclectic spiritual tradition.

Have lunch at local restaurant then drive back to city center.

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 delta, visiting Cai Be, boat trip, biking, overnight in Mekong Delta

Set off for Cai Be with your dedicated driver and knowledgeable tour guide. Along the way, make a memorable stop at the Cao Dai temple, a dazzling example of eclectic religious art. Upon arrival in Cai Be, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque orchard-lined canals and experience the gentle flow of life on the iconic Mekong River.

Engage in local traditions by participating in hands-on workshops for crafting rice cakes, coconut caramel, and popcorn. Then, find serenity at the historic Phu Chau pagoda, where you can explore the surrounding village trails by bike or on foot, and meet the welcoming locals. For lunch, enjoy a meal at a delightful outdoor eatery and taste the famed elephant ear fish, a regional specialty. End your afternoon with a serene boat ride through the canals, sampling fresh fruit while gliding beneath the shade of fruit trees.

Next, embark on a boat ride to Vinh Long. Upon arrival, your driver will meet you at the port and transfer you to Can Tho. Arrive in Can Tho by late afternoon, where you can check into your hotel and unwind. Use your free time to explore this vibrant city set alongside the Mekong River.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Boat: Cai Be
Private transportation
Bike: Cai Be
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Holiday 2 Hotel(Deluxe Room )
79 Pham Ngoc Thach, Ninh Kieu district, Can Tho city, Vietnam

Visiting famous Cai Rang market, fruit garden tour, Binh Thuy ancient house, back to Saigon for flight to Hanoi.

Have breakfast at your hotel, set out for the dock to embark on a boat ride to the Cai Rang floating market, the largest and most vibrant market in the Mekong Delta. Here, the water is alive with color and activity, as hundreds of sampans overflow with rice, fresh fruits, and artisanal crafts. The early morning buzz ensures a lively, aromatic experience with everything displayed for sale.

Following your visit to the market, continue your boat journey through the tranquil canals and choose to explore either a fruit garden or a nearby nursery field along the river. Make your way back to An Binh Market, where you’ll find a diverse array of seafood, fruits, and vegetables. Conclude your explorations with a visit to the historic Binh Thuy mansion, famed for its orchid garden and as a filming location for the movie “The Lover.”

In the afternoon, board a flight to Hanoi, the bustling capital city. Upon arriving at Noi Bai Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by a knowledgeable tour guide and driver. Enjoy a scenic 45-minute drive to Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where your guide will offer insights into the city’s main attractions, customs, traffic, and culinary delights. Check into your hotel and take some time to relax and refresh.

Note: Hotel check-in begins at 14:00.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B
Boat: Cai Rang
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Flight :VN1206 (VCA - HAN) - (Direct) / 18:40-20:55 - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 06 tickets
Conifer Grand Hotel(ROH Room)
42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Visiting the city's highlights, traveling to French Quarter, Ho Chi Minh complex, leisurely walk by the West Lake

9:00 AM: Move to the Temple of Literature, founded in the 11th century under the Ly dynasty for honoring Confucius and educating royal children. Enjoy a garden walk to see Khue Van Cac, a notable city symbol, and explore the World Heritage “stone steles,” which commemorate outstanding students. Visit Quoc Tu Giam, Vietnam’s inaugural national university.

After breakfast, explore one of Hanoi’s notable museums, choose from the National History Museum, Hoa Lo Prison Museum, Museum of Ethnology, or the Fine Arts Museum. Enjoy some free time for lunch or a drink at a local spot.

Spend the rest of the day discovering the elegance of Hanoi’s "Little Paris," the French Quarter. This area features grand plazas, historic government buildings, and tree-lined boulevards. Visit the exterior of Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and then meander through the lush botanical gardens to see the Presidential Palace, once Ho Chi Minh’s residence and office. Make your way to the iconic One-Pillar Pagoda, a unique architectural landmark. Depending on your group’s pace, this exploration can take between one and two hours.

Next, head to the Quan Thanh Temple, one of Hanoi’s four principal temples, built in the 11th century during King Ly Thai To’s reign. This temple is dedicated to Tran Vu, a major Taoist deity. Enjoy a scenic walk with picturesque views of West Lake, then visit the Tran Quoc Pagoda, established in the 6th century during the Ly Nam De Dynasty.

Conclude your day with a stroll through the Hanoi Old Quarter, a bustling area that dates back to the 15th century. Once a commercial hub, the Old Quarter is now a vibrant living museum with its narrow lanes, historic tube houses, open-air markets, and street food vendors. Walking through this area offers a rich sensory experience of Hanoi’s culture and daily life.

Finally, enjoy a captivating water puppet show, an ancient Vietnamese art form that brings to life folklore and traditions through performances on water, often accompanied by traditional music.

Return to your hotel to unwind and reflect on a day full of exploration and cultural immersion.

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

Transferring Hanoi to Sapa, exploring Sin Chai village of Black H'mong people

7:30 AM: Your journey to Sapa begins with a pick-up from Hanoi by your guide and driver. Enjoy the scenic drive on the new highway, which offers lovely views of rural landscapes, mountainous regions, and the Red River.

Once you arrive in Sapa, have lunch before setting off in the afternoon to Sin Chai village, where more than 60 Black H’mong families reside. Experience the natural charm of the area with its beautiful flowers, vegetable gardens, medicinal plants, and impressive rice terraces. Take a walk through the village paths to learn about the Black H’mong people, who have lived in these mountains for centuries, and discover their rich cultural heritage. Visit a local primary school and a traditional H’mong home before heading back to town.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Sapa Elegance Hotel(Deluxe Room)
3 Hoang Dieu street, Sapa town, Lao Cai , Vietnam

Trekking through the World's most amazing rice terrace in Y Linh Ho, Lao Chai, Ta Van, meeting H'mong & Dzay people

8:00 AM: Move 5-kilometer journey west of town, starting from Y Linh Ho village. Enjoy a scenic hike as you descend through the valley, engaging with the friendly H'mong women and children living in their charming homes. Take a moment to relish the tranquility and stunning vistas from the cable bridge. For those feeling adventurous, opt for the scenic and less-trodden uphill path via the Buffalo Trail, or if you prefer a shorter hike, follow the Muong Hoa River.

Next, head to Lao Chai village, where a short trail meanders through lush rice fields. Here, you’ll have the unique opportunity to meet a grandmother, the last artisan in the village, who continues the ancient craft of decorating H'mong indigo garments with traditional beeswax techniques. This visit offers an immersive experience into the vibrant culture and way of life of the H'mong people.

Continue your exploration to Ta Van hamlet, a picturesque Dzay village perched on a hill with panoramic views of the Hoang Lien Son Mountain range, a winding river, and verdant rice terraces. As you stroll through the village, locals will warmly invite you into their homes, offering a glimpse into their daily lives.

After a satisfying lunch at a local eatery, make your way to your accommodation to relax and unwind for the rest of the day.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Sapa Elegance Hotel(Deluxe Room)
3 Hoang Dieu street, Sapa town, Lao Cai , Vietnam

Discovering the Red Dao culture in Ma Tra & Ta Phin village, transferring back to Hanoi

Walk from Ma Tra hamlet to Ta Phin village. This trek leads you through stunning rice terrace valleys, offering breathtaking views and a chance to connect with the local Black Hmong and Red Dao ethnic groups. Originally from Southern China, these communities migrated to Vietnam in the 11th century and have maintained their traditional way of life high in the mountains, preserving their customs, language, and heritage.

Along the way, take a moment to visit a Hmong family and school in Ma Tra Village, gaining insight into their daily lives and educational practices. After a three-hour hike, you’ll reach Ta Phin hamlet, home to the Red Dao community. Here, engage with the locals to learn more about their culture and way of life.

Enjoy lunch at a local eatery before making your way back to Hanoi. Arrive in the late afternoon and check into your hotel to relax and refresh.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
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

A full day to explore Ninh Binh at Hoa Lu - Tam Coc - Bich Dong

8:00 AM: Embark on an enchanting journey from your hotel as you meet your driver and tour guide. Set off towards Ninh Binh, a treasure trove of Vietnam’s historical, cultural, and natural wonders. As you traverse the picturesque Red River delta, feel free to make impromptu stops to capture the landscape’s beauty through your camera lens.

Your first destination is Hoa Lu, Vietnam's ancient capital during the 10th and 11th centuries. Nestled amid towering limestone mountains and tranquil rivers, this historical fortress is naturally fortified and offers a stunning backdrop. Here, you will visit the revered temples dedicated to Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang of the Dinh Dynasty (968–80) and Emperor Le Dai Hanh of the Le Dynasty (980–1009). These temples, dating back to the 17th century, stand as a testament to their pivotal roles in liberating Vietnam from a millennium of Chinese rule.

Next, venture to the serene Bich Dong Pagoda, a 15th-century gem set in the idyllic countryside of the Red River Delta. Cross a charming stone bridge to reach Chua Ha, and then ascend a series of over 100 steps to Chua Trung, the cave pagoda adorned with unique clay figurines. Continue your ascent to Chua Thuong, where you can deepen your understanding of Buddhism while soaking in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

After this spiritual and scenic adventure, indulge in a delicious lunch at a local eatery before heading to Tam Coc. Often called "Halong Bay on land" and famously featured in the French film "Indochina," Tam Coc offers a tranquil boat ride. Board a private sampan and glide along the Ngo Dong River for a serene 90-minute cruise. Marvel at the stunning karst landscapes, ancient temples, and traditional villages as you navigate through three impressive caves.

By around 6:00 PM, you will return to Hanoi, carrying with you the memories of a day rich in history, culture, and natural beauty.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Boat: Tam Coc
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

Amazing sailing route, Pearl farm excursion, swimming and hiking at Titov Island, offering a great panoramic views

8:00 AM – 8:30 AM: Pickup from your Hanoi Old Quarter hotel or our Shuttle Bus stop if staying outside the Old Quarter (additional fees apply). Enjoy a scenic drive to Halong City, approximately 2.5 to 3 hours with an optional restroom stop.

11:00 AM: Arrive at Tuan Chau Marina and check in at the waiting lounge.

12:00 PM: Board the cruise ship, enjoy a welcome drink, and receive a brief overview. Check into your room and get ready for lunch.

12:30 PM: Savor a Vietnamese and international lunch while cruising through Halong Bay, passing by landmarks like the Incense Burner, Dog Stone Islet, Fighting Cock Islet, and Three Coconuts Island.

2:30 PM: Visit the Pearl Farm and enjoy kayaking to experience Halong Bay’s natural beauty up close.

4:00 PM: Explore Sung Sot Cave, the largest cave in the region with its spectacular stalactites and stalagmites. (Appropriate footwear is recommended for wet conditions.)

5:45 PM: Return to the boat for Happy Hour at the bar (buy 2, get 1 free).

7:30 PM: Indulge in a deluxe dinner with a blend of traditional and fusion dishes crafted by our chefs.

9:00 PM: After dinner, unwind at the bar and spa, go squid fishing, watch a movie in your cabin, play cards or chess, or relax on the sundeck.

11:00 PM: Enjoy an overnight stay on board.

Included:
Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau
English speaking guide (on board)
Meal: B, L, D
Entrance fees
Leisure: Swimming,Squid fishing
Cooking class: Halong (on board) - cooking demonstration
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Mila Cruise - 2D1N(Deluxe Cabin)
7 Nghi Tam, Tay Ho, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Exploring Sung Sot Cave then leisurely sailing before transfering back to Hanoi

6:15 AM: Kick off your day with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck to energize yourself, followed by breakfast in the restaurant.

6:30 AM: Enjoy breakfast with a selection of coffee, tea, and pastries.

7:30 AM: Explore Titov Island, famous for its beautiful sandy beaches and spectacular panoramic views from the top. (It’s advisable to wear appropriate footwear, especially if it’s wet.)

9:30 AM: Return to the cruise ship, complete your check-out process, and settle any bills at reception.

10:00 AM: Enjoy a brunch while cruising back to Tuan Chau Marina. Relax on the sundeck or in the restaurant area.

11:30 AM: Disembark at Tuan Chau Marina and say your goodbyes to the crew.

Our driver will be waiting at the Cruise Waiting Lounge to transport you to Hanoi (additional fees apply). The drive takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, with an optional restroom stop en route. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or at our Shuttle Bus stop.

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