Vietnam Highlights & Hidden Gems

Hanoi - Halong Bay - Ninh Binh. We begin the day with pick-up from your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter or near the Opera House between 8:45 and 9:15. From there, we travel along the Hanoi - Haiphong - Tuan Chau Expressway, a journey of approximately 2.5 hours, to reach Tuan Chau Harbour.

Upon arrival, we board the boat to explore the stunning Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While enjoying a set menu lunch of local specialities, you can take in the views of iconic limestone formations including the Fighting Cock and Incense Burner Islets.

We visit Sung Sot Cave, renowned for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites, then kayak or take a bamboo boat through Luon Cave to explore the tranquil lagoon. At Ti Top Island, there's time to swim or trek to the summit for panoramic views of the bay.

Around 16:00, we return to the boat for a sunset party with wine, fruit, and biscuits as we cruise back to the harbour. From there, we travel by bus to Ninh Binh, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel for the night.

Please note: We strongly recommend you arrive in Hanoi the day before your tour starts. You will be collected early on day 1. Pick up can be arranged from any hotel in Hanoi's Old Quarter, and you must inform us in advance of your tour where you wish to be collected from.

Ninh Binh - Dong Hoi. Today you’ll visit the dramatic limestone landscape of Trang An, often referred to as an inland Halong Bay. After lunch, we take a boat ride through the river caves to reach an ancient 10th-century pagoda and temple.

In the afternoon, we hop on bicycles for a scenic 10 km ride to Thung Nham Bird Garden, enjoying peaceful roads and lovely countryside.

After returning to the hotel for a shower and short rest, we board the overnight train to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.

Upon arrival, we’ll travel along the Ho Chi Minh Trail to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its extensive karst landscapes and cave systems.

Our first stop is Paradise Cave, accessible via a 2 km buggy ride and a 500-step climb. Inside, marvel at the vast chambers adorned with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll visit Dark Cave. Equipped with headlamps and safety gear, we’ll zipline into the cave, swim through Thuy Tien Lake, and enjoy a therapeutic mud bath. Afterwards, kayak along the Chay River and partake in water-based activities.

In the evening, we’ll check into a hotel in Phong Nha or Dong Hoi, followed by dinner at a local restaurant.

After breakfast and hotel checkout, we’ll return to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park to visit the Botanical Garden. Here, you can relax amidst lush scenery, view Gio Waterfall and Golden Lake, and observe native flora and fauna, including monkeys, porcupines, and vibrant orchids. There’s also an opportunity to swim in the stream at Golden Lake.

Following lunch and a rest, we’ll explore Phong Nha Cave, renowned for its underground river and impressive rock formations. Recognised by the Royal British Cave Society, it’s one of the few caves in Vietnam with an accessible subterranean river. Later, we’ll return to Dong Hoi City.

Phong Nha - Hue. Today, we visit the Vinh Moc Tunnels in Quang Tri Province. This extensive underground network was constructed to shelter villagers from intense bombings during the Vietnam War. Over 600 people lived here between 1965 and 1972, with 17 children born within the tunnels.

After lunch, we’ll stop at the Mine Action Visitors Centre in Dong Ha, which highlights the enduring impact of unexploded ordnance in the region. Continuing to Hue, we’ll visit Thien Mu Pagoda, Vietnam’s tallest pagoda, situated on the banks of the Perfume River. The evening is yours to relax and explore Hue.

Following breakfast, we’ll tour the Imperial Citadel, constructed by Emperor Gia Long. Despite suffering damage during past conflicts, it remains a testament to Vietnam’s imperial history.

Next, we’ll visit the tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, noted for its harmonious blend of architecture and natural surroundings, reflecting Confucian principles. Afterwards, we’ll head to a local beach for lunch and cocktails, with time to swim and enjoy the sunset—a perfect way to unwind after a day of cultural exploration.

Hue - Hoi An. Departing Hue in the morning, we’ll journey by motorbike to Hoi An, stopping at scenic spots along the way. Highlights include the picturesque Elephant Springs—ideal for a swim and lunch—and the renowned Hai Van Pass. This winding mountain road offers breathtaking views of the coastline and was famously featured in the BBC’s Top Gear Vietnam Special.

Hoi An - Buon Ma Thuot. At 08:00 or 14:00, our guide will meet you at your hotel to begin a culinary adventure. We’ll cycle to Hoi An’s vibrant central market to learn about local ingredients, then continue to Tra Que Vegetable Village.

Upon arrival, enjoy a welcome drink and a walk through the gardens, observing traditional farming methods. Relax with a foot herbal massage before participating in a cooking class, where you’ll prepare Vietnamese dishes under the guidance of a local chef. After enjoying your creations, we’ll return to your hotel.

This evening, transfer to Da Nang to board an overnight bus to Buon Me Thuot. If you prefer, a domestic flight may be able to be booked instead, for a supplement. Please contact us for this.

Buon Ma Thuot - Lak Lake. Whether you arrive by night bus or morning flight, we’ll start the day with a traditional Vietnamese breakfast before exploring Buon Ma Thuot, Vietnam’s coffee capital. At the renowned Trung Nguyen Coffee Village, sample various brews, including the exotic “weasel coffee.”

After lunch, we’ll visit the impressive D’ray Nur Waterfalls on the Krong Ana River, particularly striking during the rainy season. We’ll also explore a nearby Ede ethnic minority village to learn about their matriarchal society. Tonight, you’ll stay in a local homestay.

Lak Lake - Dalat. We’ll depart early to join the Elephant Conservation Project team in Yok Don National Park. Accompanied by caretakers, we’ll track elephants in their natural habitat, participate in their morning routine, and feed them bananas and sugar cane. Note that elephant rides are not offered, ensuring ethical treatment of these majestic animals.

After returning to Buon Ma Thuot for lunch, we’ll travel by minibus to Dalat, arriving in time for dinner at your leisure.

Today’s adventure involves canyoning—a thrilling way to experience Dalat’s natural beauty. Equipped with high-quality gear, you’ll navigate waterfalls, hills, and pine forests, testing your courage and enjoying the exhilaration of the outdoors.

Dalat - Mui Ne. This morning, you have the option to choose from various half-day activities, such as sightseeing, mountain biking, or leisurely walks around town. After lunch, we’ll drive approximately four hours to the coastal town of Mui Ne, with stops along the way.

Upon arrival, we’ll visit the white sand dunes near a tranquil lake, where you can walk or ride an all-terrain vehicle over the dunes. We’ll also explore an old iron mine, the source of the region’s distinctive red soil, and visit a fishing village before checking into your hotel.

Mui Ne - Ho Chi Minh City. Enjoy free time on the beach this morning before we depart for Ho Chi Minh City.

At 13:00, we’ll embark on an afternoon tour, visiting Cho Lon (Chinatown) and Thien Hau Pagoda. We’ll then proceed to Bach Dang Harbour to board a waterbus, offering unique views of the city’s skyline, including landmarks like Vinhomes Central Park, Landmark 81, and the Bitexco Financial Tower. Experience the soul of Saigon from the river, once known as the “Pearl of the Far East.”

Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta - Ho Chi Minh City. Leaving the bustling city behind, we’ll travel to My Tho, situated on the left bank of the Mekong River. Upon arrival, we’ll visit the late 19th-century Vinh Trang Pagoda before boarding a sampan to cruise around the four islands: Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Tortoise.

On Unicorn Island, stroll along country lanes, visit orchards, sample tropical fruits, and enjoy traditional folk music performed by locals. We’ll also visit a honeybee farm and a coconut candy workshop, with opportunities to taste honey tea and coconut treats.

After lunch at a local restaurant, you can cycle around Tan Thach Village to experience daily life in the Mekong Delta. For those preferring a more relaxed pace, hammocks are available to enjoy the cool breeze. We’ll return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening.

There are no scheduled activities today, allowing you to relax or explore the city at your leisure. If you’re not ready to leave, consider extending your stay to discover more of what Ho Chi Minh City has to offer.