Travel from south to north in Vietnam on this 14-day Southeast Asia tour, taking in Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta. Explore the riverside town of Hoi An, the capital Hanoi and the emerald waters of Halong Bay on an overnight cruise. Then, pop to Laos to explore Luang Prabang and end in the Cambodian resort town of Siem Reap, with a sunrise visit to Angkor Wat, guided sightseeing and free time.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Ho Chi Minh City
Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. On arrival, you will be collected and transferred to our hotel. Settle in and enjoy some free time before a welcome meeting and drink with your fellow travelers.
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City
Cu Chi Tunnels & Ho Chi Minh City Sightseeing
We begin the day with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Built during the Vietnam War, these underground passageways played a vital role in the Viet Cong’s resistance efforts. After exploring this remarkable site, we return to Saigon.
Following lunch, we set out on a guided walking tour, starting at the former Presidential Palace - a striking modernist building where, on the morning of 30 April 1975, North Vietnamese tanks famously rolled in as Saigon fell. From here, we continue on foot to take in the key landmarks of colonial-era Ho Chi Minh City. These include the red-brick Notre-Dame Cathedral, the grand 19th-century Central Post Office, and the nearby City Hall – all showcasing classic French architectural influences. We also pass Dong Khoi Street (formerly Rue Catinat) and the elegant Opera House.
The tour concludes with a stop at Ben Thanh Market, one of the oldest surviving structures in the city and a symbol of Saigon.
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City | Breakfast, Lunch
Mekong Delta Day Trip
Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta - Ho Chi Minh City. Today we escape the bustle of Ho Chi Minh City and head towards the serene Mekong Delta, travelling to the riverside town of My Tho. On arrival, we visit the Cao Dai Temple before boarding a traditional boat for a cruise along the Mekong River.
We’ll explore the famed Four Islands - Dragon, Unicorn, Turtle and Phoenix - making several stops along the way to experience daily life in this fertile region. We’ll see how local communities support themselves through small-scale industries such as fruit orchards, a chocolate workshop, and a coconut candy factory.
Lunch is served at a local restaurant, offering a chance to try regional flavors, before we return to Ho Chi Minh City in the late afternoon.
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City | Breakfast, Lunch
Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An
Ho Chi Minh City - Danang - Hoi An. We fly to Danang and enjoy a scenic drive to Hoi An, where we check in to our hotel. In the afternoon, we set out on a walking tour of this charming riverside town.
Our tour begins at the Museum of Folk Culture, offering insights into the traditions and history of Hoi An. From there, we stroll through a small local market before continuing along the main street to the Fujian Assembly Hall. We then follow narrow lanes towards the riverbank, passing old merchant houses now transformed into vibrant shops adorned with colorful lanterns. A highlight of the walk is the Japanese Covered Bridge, constructed in the early 17th century by Japanese traders. This unique pagoda-style structure has become a symbol of Hoi An.
We end the tour with a visit to one of the town’s historic old houses. We are staying for two nights in Hoi An, giving us time to soak in the atmosphere of this UNESCO-listed town.
Overnight: Hoi An | Breakfast
Rural Vietnam & Cooking Class
This morning we head to Vong Nhi village and begin with a leisurely 6 km cycling tour. Along the way, we pass through peaceful countryside scenes - lush water coconut groves, prawn and red snapper farms, and expansive rice fields.
Our next stop is Thanh Dong organic farm, a 10,000-square-meter garden that supports 11 local families. Here, we take a short walk around the vegetable plots while hearing about the work of the farmers. We’ll then get hands-on with some gardening activities such as preparing and applying organic fertilizer, raking the soil, sowing herb seeds, watering, or harvesting vegetables.
After the farm visit, we board a basket boat for a ride along the Do River to a local restaurant. Here, we take part in a cooking class and enjoy a traditional Vietnamese family-style lunch. We then head back to the hotel in Hoi An.
Overnight: Hoi An | Breakfast, Lunch
Hoi An to Hanoi
Hoi An - Danang - Hanoi. This morning, transfer to Danang airport for your included flight to Hanoi, Vietnam's capital. On arrival, you'll be collected and we head to our hotel for check-in. Later, we embark on a city tour to discover the highlights of Hanoi.
We begin at Hoan Kiem Lake, a scenic spot at the heart of Hanoi, followed by a visit to Dong Xuan Market. Next, we explore the Ho Chi Minh complex, including Ba Dinh Square and the Presidential Palace (viewed from outside), as well as Ho Chi Minh’s former residence - a traditional stilt house set within tranquil gardens. Also within the complex is the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, originally founded in 1049 by King Ly Thai To and still a powerful symbol of Hanoi.
We continue to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, established in 1070. Its peaceful courtyards and historic architecture offer a glimpse into the country’s scholarly past. Our next visit is to Hoa Lo Prison, known to American POWs as the “Hanoi Hilton”. Our final stop is the Hanoi Opera House, where we’ll explore its grand interior. We end the day with a cup of traditional Vietnamese coffee before returning to the hotel.
Overnight: Hanoi | Breakfast
Halong Bay
Hanoi - Halong Bay. We leave Hanoi and drive through the countryside, passing scenes of traditional rural life en route to Halong City - the gateway to Halong Bay. On arrival, we board a well-appointed junk boat, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch, and begin our cruise through the bay’s remarkable seascape of nearly 3,000 limestone islands rising from the water.
In the evening, retreat to your private cabin, unwind on the main deck, or enjoy a drink at the bar. We spend the night on board.
Overnight: Overnight Cruise (Halong Bay) | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Return to Hanoi
Halong Bay - Hanoi. Start the day with a sunrise Tai Chi session on the sundeck, followed by a relaxed brunch on board as we cruise back to port. From here, we transfer to our hotel in Hanoi.
In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour through Hanoi’s Old Quarter - also known as the “36 streets”. This lively maze of narrow lanes is packed with small shops, local businesses and street vendors, offering excellent photo opportunities and a real taste of local life. We then return to Hoan Kiem Lake for a final stroll before gathering with the group for a farewell dinner to mark our last evening in Vietnam. Note that some members of the group may be leaving us after tonight.
Overnight: Hanoi | Breakfast, Dinner
Hanoi to Luang Prabang
Hanoi - Luang Prabang (Laos). Say goodbye to Vietnam as we head to the airport this morning and fly to Luang Prabang, Laos. On arrival, transfer to our hotel, with some free time to relax on arrival. In the afternoon, we set off on a guided city tour to explore why this former royal capital is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
We begin at Wat Xieng Thong - the Temple of the Golden City - considered one of the most beautiful and historically significant temples in Laos. We then take a short hike up Phou Si Mountain, where we’re rewarded with panoramic views over the city and surrounding landscape.
Our day ends with a special cultural experience - a traditional Baci ceremony followed by a Lao-style dinner at The Bamboo Experience.
Overnight: Luang Prabang | Breakfast, Dinner
Exploring Luang Prabang
Wake early to witness Tak Bat - a sacred Lao tradition and long-standing Buddhist ritual. In the quiet of dawn, saffron-robed monks walk in single file along the streets to receive food offerings from local residents.
Afterwards, we take a relaxed tour through Luang Prabang’s old quarter, beginning at the bustling Morning Market. Walking along the town’s main street, we visit Wat Mai and the National Museum, formerly the Royal Palace and now home to artifacts from the era of the Laotian monarchy.
We then board a boat for a scenic cruise along the Mekong River to the revered Pak Ou Caves (also known as Tam Ting), home to thousands of Buddha images left by pilgrims over the centuries. On the return journey, we stop at Ban Xang Khong village, where traditional Saa paper is handcrafted from mulberry bark. We end the day with sunset drinks and a friendly game of pétanque - a favorite local pastime.
Overnight: Luang Prabang | Breakfast, Lunch
Luang Prabang to Siem Reap
Luang Prabang - Siem Reap (Cambodia). We travel by car to visit one of Laos’s most breathtaking natural wonders – the multi-tiered, turquoise Kuang Si Waterfall. Surrounded by lush forest, it’s widely regarded as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Southeast Asia.
Later, our brief time in Laos comes to a close as we transfer to the airport for an included flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia. On arrival, transfer to our hotel, where a welcome drink awaits. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace.
Overnight: Siem Reap | Breakfast
Angkor Wat at Sunrise
We begin early this morning, setting out before dawn to witness the unforgettable sight of sunrise over Angkor Wat. After the sun rises, we explore the intricate bas-reliefs and central sanctuary of this magnificent temple in the quiet of the early morning.
We then continue to the Southern Gate of Angkor Thom - the 'Great City' - home to many of the finest temples built under King Jayavarman VII, who ruled from 1181 to 1220. Here, we marvel at the towering 23-meter stone faces of Avalokiteshvara, made famous by the film Tomb Raider. At the heart of the citadel lies the Bayon Temple, with its hundreds of serene, smiling stone faces dating from the late 12th century.
The tour also includes the Terrace of Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King. Later, we explore some of the most notable 11th-century temples, including Baphuon and Phimeanakas.
We take part in a traditional monk blessing ceremony at a nearby pagoda - a sacred ritual still practiced in pagodas across Cambodia. Our day concludes with a visit to Ta Prohm, the atmospheric temple where giant tree roots envelop ancient stone walls.
Overnight: Siem Reap | Breakfast
Exploring Siem Reap
This morning we visit Beng Mealea - a 12th-century Buddhist sanctuary built from precisely cut sandstone blocks, much of which remains partly reclaimed by the surrounding jungle.
After lunch at a local restaurant, we travel to Kampong Phluk - a remote community of three stilted villages. From August to February, the area is seasonally flooded, making it possible to explore by row boat. We glide through the submerged mangrove forest, home to a variety of birdlife and aquatic species, while supporting the local economy through our visit.
We end the day with a captivating performance showcasing Khmer classical culture, accompanied by some of the finest cuisine in Siem Reap.
Overnight: Siem Reap | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Siem Reap
Our tour comes to an end after breakfast and check out. An included transfer takes you to the airport.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
All departure dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 2 persons booked on the tour. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room.
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Equatorial Hotel , Ho Chi Minh City
Equatorial Ho Chi Minh City is a 5-star hotel located near the heart of the city, providing easy access to Ben Thanh Market, Chinatown, and other cultural landmarks. Ideal for group travellers, the hotel features spacious rooms with modern comforts including air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Amenities include an outdoor pool with swim-up bar, fitness centre, spa, and sauna. Guests can enjoy a choice of dining options, including international and Asian cuisine, as well as a café and lounge. A complimentary shuttle service and 24-hour reception ensure a convenient and comfortable stay.
Hoi An Central Boutique Hotel & Spa, Hoi An
Centrally located on Hung Vuong Street, this colonial-style hotel boasts an excellent location within walking distance of the bustling Ancient Town of Hoi An. Its comfortable guestrooms are fully equipped with modern amenities, including free WiFi and tea and coffee making facilities. The hotel features a welcoming outdoor pool, where guests can enjoy a cooling drink at the Sunken Bar, and a state-of-the-art fitness centre. The onsite spa offers rejuvenating full body Vietnamese massages and, if that wasn’t enough, the hotel also provides free bicycles and shuttle buses to take you to their private beach at An Bang.
Le Jardin Hotel & Spa, Hanoi
Rising in the centre of the government area in the heart of Hanoi, the Vietnam’s culture richness capital, Le Jardin delivers a dynamic but memorial experience that reflects Hanoi’s life style, culture and signature. From the Hotel’s vibrant top-floor restaurant and lounges to elegant floral café, this is where the city comes to connect and be inspired.
Sala Prabang, Luang Prabang
A boutique residence comprising of five original World Heritage buildings and a traditional Lao bungalow. The property is owned and was renovated by a Lao architect to provide a unique experience. Rooms are individually designed with colonial elegance and traditional and contemporary styles.
Steung Siem Reap Hotel , Siem Reap
Rebuilt in 2005, the Steung Siem Reap has retained many of its colonial French characteristics, with attractive wooden louvre french-windows and wrought iron balconies. Guest rooms are modern, airy and nicely decorated, the hotel has a good range of facilities and services, together with a nice pool, sauna, restaurant, bar and business center.