From the rice terraces of Sapa in the north to the waterways of the Mekong Delta in the south – a tour brimming with UNESCO sites, encounters with locals, imperial history, and a mini cruise in Bai Tu Long Bay.
Comprehensive package of excursions:
Look forward to an adventurous tour through Vietnam – from the mountainous region of Sapa and the vibrant capital of Hanoi to ancient imperial cities, charming coastal towns, the lush Mekong Delta, and the buzzing metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City in the south.
Your journey begins in Hanoi, where you’ll discover the city’s historic quarters and rich cultural heritage on a fascinating city tour. From there, board the night train north to the mountain town of Sapa, where you’ll trek through the picturesque Muong Hoa Valley and visit villages belonging to ethnic minorities, before returning to Hanoi.
Next up is a mini cruise through the tranquil Bai Tu Long Bay. Glide between dramatic limestone cliffs, explore mysterious caves, and soak up the magical scenery from the deck. Your journey then continues by plane to the imperial city of Hué, where you’ll visit grand mausoleums, ancient pagodas, and the old citadel.
Your journey continues across the spectacular Hai Van Pass to Hoi An – a vibrant and atmospheric trading town where you’ll have plenty of time to explore on your own. Look forward to picturesque streets, tempting culinary delights, and perhaps even a visit to a local tailor.
From Hoi An, you’ll take a flight to Ho Chi Minh City, where a guided city tour brings you closer to the city’s rich history, striking architecture, and fascinating contrasts.
The final part of your tour takes you to the Mekong Delta, where you’ll cruise along narrow waterways lined with water coconut palms and visit a local development project in Vinh Long, established and supported by our partner in Vietnam. By joining this tour, you are helping support this important initiative, as a percentage of your tour price goes directly to the invaluable work being done here.
Your journey begins today with your departure from your selected airport. You’ll fly towards Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi, with connecting flight(s) along the way.
Welcome to Vietnam! You’ll arrive at Hanoi’s international airport, Noi Bai, where you’ll go through immigration and collect your luggage. Your guide will be waiting for you outside the arrivals hall, just beyond the exit doors. Look out for the TourCompass uniform and TourCompass sign, making it easy for you to spot your guide.
You’ll then be driven to your hotel. After checking in, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy your first impressions of Vietnam’s bustling capital at your own pace.
We highly recommend that you set out to explore the vibrant, narrow streets of the Old Quarter, where every alleyway is steeped in the sights, sounds, and scents of daily Vietnamese life. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely stroll around peaceful Hoan Kiem Lake, a popular oasis in the heart of the city, where shady trees and local life provide a tranquil break from the urban buzz.
Today, you’ll enjoy a fascinating city tour, taking in some of Hanoi’s most iconic attractions.
Your guide will collect you from your hotel, and your day begins with a cup of Vietnamese coffee at a local café overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake, the city’s green heart and a favourite gathering spot for Hanoians of all ages.
From here, you’ll stroll across the iconic Huc Bridge to the Ngoc Son Temple, set on a picturesque islet in the centre of Hoan Kiem Lake. The bridge’s name means “place touched by the morning sun’s rays”. Here, you’ll hear the legend of the emperor, the magical sword, and the giant turtle, and learn how the lake earned its name and special significance to the city.
Your tour continues with a transfer to the Temple of Literature, a tranquil complex established in the 11th century by followers of the Chinese philosopher Confucius. With nearly 1,000 years of history, the temple stands as a rare and beautifully preserved example of traditional Vietnamese architecture, featuring colonnades, ponds, and serene gardens, where young students still come to pray for luck before their exams.
Afterwards, enjoy a traditional lunch in a local restaurant.
The tour then continues in a traditional cycle rickshaw – known locally as a cyclo – winding through the Old Quarter’s maze of narrow streets and lively markets. The Old Quarter is famous for its 36 streets, each originally named after the goods once traded there: bamboo, silk, paper, and tin. Many streets still bear their original names, and the area brims with local charm, with Hanoians shopping, chatting, and serving steaming bowls of pho from bustling street kitchens.
Following your exciting cyclo ride, you’ll visit the historic Long Bien Bridge – an iconic landmark from the French colonial era, built at the start of the 20th century. This distinctive iron bridge spans the Red River and was heavily damaged during the Vietnam War, yet today it stands as a powerful symbol of Hanoi’s resilience. The bridge is reserved for trains, cyclists, and pedestrians, making for an evocative experience. Here, you can see locals cycling to work or selling fruit along the tracks, and gaze out towards small green river islands and cultivated fields nestled within the city – a delightful scene for photographers and travellers who want to capture the true spirit of Hanoi.
Your day of sightseeing concludes with a traditional water puppet show – a centuries-old Vietnamese art form, where puppets glide and dance across the water’s surface accompanied by live music and classic storytelling.
After an eventful day, you’ll be returned to your hotel and have the evening free to spend as you wish.
The day is yours to explore Hanoi at your own pace, or you can opt for one of our exciting optional tours before your journey continues with the overnight train bound for Sapa in northern Vietnam.
Your hotel room remains at your disposal right up until departure, allowing you to relax and perhaps freshen up with a shower. We recommend packing a rucksack for your stay in Sapa, leaving your larger luggage safely stored at your hotel in Hanoi until your return.
Hanoi is truly a feast for the senses. Spend a few hours around the beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake, where narrow streets and French colonial buildings conceal tiny shops, inviting cafés, and vibrant art galleries. Settle in with a cup of Vietnamese coffee and watch life unfold around you, or wander over to the iconic Train Street, where trains pass breathtakingly close to the street’s bustling cafés.
At lunchtime, set out in search of Hanoi’s renowned street food. Try a steaming bowl of pho, savour the aroma of grilled bun cha, or grab a crisp banh mi to enjoy on the go.
We suggest enjoying dinner in Hanoi – perhaps in the Old Quarter, where you can also pick up food, snacks, and drinks for the train journey ahead.
Early in the evening, your guide will collect you from the hotel and transfer you to Hanoi’s railway station, where you’ll board the overnight train to Lao Cai, a quiet border town near the Chinese frontier. As standard, you’ll travel in a shared four-berth sleeper compartment, but for extra comfort and privacy, you can upgrade to your own private compartment for a supplementary price.
Upon arrival at the railway station in Lao Cai, you’ll be greeted by your local guide, who will accompany you on the scenic hour-long drive to the charming mountain town of Sapa. Renowned for its spectacular rice terraces and the vibrant cultures of its minority communities, such as the Hmong people, Sapa sits amidst breathtaking landscapes. Travelling along winding mountain roads, you’ll reach Sapa and stop at a local café, where you can enjoy a well-deserved break, savour a delicious breakfast, and hear all about today’s itinerary.
Your journey continues with a drive to a picturesque village nestled in the Muong Hoa Valley, about an hour away. Here, you’ll embark on a beautiful walk lasting one and a half to two hours along trails that link the area’s small village communities. The route winds through lush hillsides and fertile valleys, and on clear days, you’ll be treated to views of the majestic Fansipan mountain. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes with good grip, as the paths can be slippery, especially after rain.
Along the way, you’ll visit the Hmong villages of Sau Chua and Sa Seng, offering you a unique opportunity to experience the everyday life of these ethnic minorities and to learn about their traditions, customs, and close-knit sense of community. The walk ends with a delightful lunch hosted by a local family.
Following lunch, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Sapa, where you can check in and spend the rest of the day at your leisure. Perhaps you’ll be tempted to explore the town’s bustling markets, scenic viewpoints, and the distinctive misty haze that’s earned Sapa its nickname, “The Misty Town”?
You will have the morning and early afternoon free to spend as you wish. Perhaps you’ll visit the central square by the old stone church, one of Sapa’s iconic landmarks. Here, women from the Hmong and Dao tribes sell vibrant handicrafts – embroidered bags, scarves, and jewellery – all while dressed in their striking, colourful traditional costumes. It’s an ideal spot to pick up a unique souvenir or simply soak up the atmosphere and watch daily life unfold in Sapa.
You’ll check out of your hotel at midday, after which you can enjoy lunch (not included) either at the hotel or at one of the town’s local restaurants, before being picked up and driven back to your hotel in Hanoi. The scenic drive takes around 5½ hours with a stop along the way, and you’ll arrive in Hanoi in the early evening.
Your final evening in Hanoi offers plenty of tempting options, depending on your mood and energy. Perhaps you’ll be drawn to a rooftop restaurant for dinner with breathtaking views across the city, or you might choose to relax with a traditional foot massage or a soothing spa treatment in one of Hanoi’s inviting salons – the perfect way to end your stay with a touch of indulgence.
Early in the morning, you’ll leave Hanoi behind and head towards the northeast coast, where the beautiful Bai Tu Long Bay awaits. The drive takes around 3½ to 4 hours and passes through an ever-changing landscape of bustling city life, quaint farming communities, and vibrant green rice paddies. Along the way, there’s a short stop so you can stretch your legs and pick up some refreshments before you arrive at Ha Long International Cruise Port, where your enchanting mini cruise begins.
Bai Tu Long Bay stretches out northeast of Ha Long Bay, just close to the Chinese border. Both bays belong to the same unique geological area and offer the same iconic landscape, with thousands of limestone cliffs, lush islets, and exquisite emerald waters. Bai Tu Long Bay, however, receives far fewer visitors than Ha Long Bay, providing a more tranquil, authentic, and peaceful experience for travellers.
After you’ve checked in, a tender boat will take you out to your cruise ship. Onboard, you’ll be greeted with a refreshing welcome drink and a short safety briefing. Once you’ve settled into your cabin, a delicious Vietnamese lunch is served as the ship gently cruises deeper into the bay.
This afternoon, you’ll have the chance to go kayaking at the stunning Cap La Island, famed for its majestic limestone formations and crystal-clear coves. The water here is usually calm and shallow, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced kayakers to paddle among towering cliffs and hidden lagoons. You can also take a refreshing swim or simply sit back, unwind, and soak up the calm and natural beauty.
Back on board, you can look forward to a lively Vietnamese cooking demonstration, where you’ll discover how to prepare classic dishes such as freshly made spring rolls or the catch of the day.
In the evening, a sumptuous dinner is served in the ship’s restaurant. Afterwards, you can try your hand at local games, have a go at squid fishing, or just relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the bay beneath a star-filled sky.
NB: In the event of adverse weather conditions, the Vietnamese authorities reserve the right to suspend all sailing in the bay for safety reasons. This only happens on rare occasions, but should it occur, your mini cruise will be replaced with a hotel stay and an alternative excursion.
If you’re an early riser, you can begin your morning with an optional tai chi session on the sun deck. Alternatively, simply savour the peaceful atmosphere with a cup of tea or coffee in hand, gazing out across the tranquil, mirror-like waters of Bai Tu Long Bay before enjoying a light, Western-style breakfast in the ship’s restaurant.
After breakfast, you’ll set off to the beautiful Thien Canh Son Cave, renowned for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is hidden behind a steep staircase carved into the cliffside and reveals dramatic limestone pillars and cool chambers bathed in natural daylight.
Once you’re back on board, you’ll have time to pack your bags and prepare for check-out before a traditional Vietnamese lunch is served. As you dine, the boat glides gently back towards the harbour, affording you a final chance to soak up the bay’s enchanting scenery from the deck.
You will disembark at Ha Long International Port, where your guide and driver will be waiting to transfer you to Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi. From here, you’ll take a flight to Hué in central Vietnam – a journey of around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Upon arrival, your guide will be waiting outside the arrivals hall, just beyond the exit doors. They’ll be wearing a TourCompass uniform and holding a TourCompass sign so that you can spot them easily. From here, you’ll be driven to your hotel situated in the heart of the city.
After check-in, the remainder of the day is yours to spend as you wish. You may choose to book one of our optional tours or simply explore the city at your own pace.
Hué boasts plenty of charming evening experiences. For example, take a stroll along the Perfume River, where the riverside is atmospherically lit and you can see little boats drifting by in the darkness. You’ll also find delightful cafés and local street food kitchens here, perfect for sampling specialities such as Bun bo Hué – the region’s aromatic, spicy noodle soup.
The central area is also home to a host of excellent restaurants and bars. Try one of the inviting rooftop terraces, which offer beautiful views across Hué.
After breakfast, you’ll be taken on an exciting journey to explore Hué’s most impressive attractions. Today’s excursion whisks you back to the grandeur of the imperial era, offering insight into Vietnam’s royal history, art and spiritual culture.
Your guide will collect you at your hotel and your first stop will be the ancient Imperial City, a remarkable fortress built in the early 1800s when the Nguyen Dynasty made Hué their capital. Encircled by moats and towering walls, the complex was once home to both the royal administration and the emperor’s family. Inspired by the Forbidden City in Beijing, parts of the palace and sacred halls remain as echoes of its former glory, despite the destruction caused by both the Indochina and Vietnam wars. Today, UNESCO supports extensive restoration projects, breathing new life into the historic complex.
The tour continues to the tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh, which stands apart from the other imperial mausoleums in the area. Constructed in the early 1900s, this tomb masterfully blends traditional Vietnamese design with elements of European Baroque and Gothic architecture. The result is an extraordinary and intricate structure that pays tribute to the late emperor, and also reflects his fascination with Western art and culture.
Your next stop is the Thien Mu Pagoda, Hué’s oldest and most iconic religious landmark. Perched high above the Perfume River, this pagoda has served as a vital centre for Buddhism in central Vietnam for over 400 years. Its octagonal tower rises majestically into the sky, providing a tranquil setting for the temple and the monastic community that continues to live and practise here.
Afterwards, you’ll visit a small local exhibition of traditional Vietnamese paintings. Here, you can not only admire the vibrant artworks, but also try your hand at painting for yourself, experiencing the peaceful mindfulness that this art form is known for.
The day’s experiences are rounded off with a charming boat trip on the Perfume River, giving you time to reflect as your boat gently glides through the scenic landscape and the city on its banks.
You’ll then be taken back to your hotel, where you’ll be free to enjoy Hué at your own pace.
Today, you will bid farewell to Hué. You’ll be collected from your hotel and will set off along one of Vietnam’s most scenic routes towards the atmospheric town of Hoi An.
The journey at times hugs the coastline before winding its way through the Truong Son Mountains, where you’ll cross the dramatic Hai Van Pass—often called the “Pass of Clouds.” From here, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views, with lush green mountains on one side and the endless blue horizon of the South China Sea on the other.
After three to four hours, you’ll arrive at your hotel in Hoi An. Once you’ve checked in, the rest of the day is yours to spend as you please.
Hoi An is an experience unto itself—a place that quickly captures your heart. Its old town, listed on the UNESCO world heritage list, is renowned for its well-preserved architecture, proud tradition of silk production, and the many talented tailors who call the city home. Here, time seems to slow down, and history comes alive in every street, façade, and tiny shop.
The Thu Bon River winds through the heart of the city. Back in the 17th and 18th centuries, the area was a bustling hub for international trade, and today the riverbanks provide a picturesque and tranquil setting for daily life, with small boats still gliding across the water.
Move away from the river, and you’ll discover a maze of atmospheric lanes. Here, you’ll encounter a vibrant blend of Japanese wooden houses, Chinese assembly halls, elegant French colonial buildings, and the distinctive merchant homes. Colourful lanterns hang in garlands overhead, creating a magical ambience—especially as dusk falls. Shops, street food stalls, cafés, and intimate restaurants line the streets, inviting you to relax and explore at your leisure.
Despite its popularity with visitors, Hoi An manages to retain a sense of calm, authenticity, and warmth. This is thanks in no small part to the ban on cars and motorised traffic in the historic centre, allowing you to wander peacefully while soaking up the town’s unique atmosphere.
Today is yours to spend as you please, and Hoi An has a wealth of options to suit any mood, whether you’re after relaxation, adventure, or a dose of cultural discovery.
Perhaps a peaceful day by the sea will tempt you? Hire a bicycle and make your way to one of the nearby beaches, Cua Dai or An Bang, where soft sand and swaying palms offer the perfect sanctuary for unwinding and a refreshing dip in the warm water. Alternatively, you might prefer to wander through Hoi An’s enchanting streets and alleyways, home to unique little shops, welcoming cafés, and vibrant markets. You could even be tempted to visit a local tailor for a made-to-measure garment—an ideal souvenir to bring home.
If you’re curious about the area surrounding Hoi An, you can choose from our selection of exciting optional tours, which you’ll find more details about below.
Today, you’ll be collected from your hotel and driven to Da Nang airport—a journey of just under an hour. From here, you’ll fly south to Vietnam’s largest and most dynamic city, Ho Chi Minh City.
You’ll arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, where your guide will be waiting for you outside the arrivals hall. Look out for someone in a TourCompass uniform, holding a TourCompass sign so you can find them easily. You’ll then be taken to your centrally located hotel in District 1—the very heart of the city. This area is still often referred to as Saigon and is considered the historical and cultural core of the city, while the surrounding districts together make up modern Ho Chi Minh City.
After the calm of Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City can feel quite overwhelming at first glance. With around ten million residents—and almost as many scooters and motorbikes—it’s a whirlwind of movement and sound. Yet, amid all the hustle and bustle, a modern and captivating city in rapid transformation reveals itself. The skyline makes this development clear, as glass-clad skyscrapers rise beside elegant French colonial buildings from a bygone era.
Once you’ve checked in at your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish. Perhaps you’d like to unwind by the pool with a drink in hand? Or sample a traditional Vietnamese iced coffee at one of the city’s countless cafés? Coffee culture thrives here—expect everything from trendy minimalist coffee bars to laid-back local spots with plastic chairs and coffee brewed the classic drip way.
If you’re keen to taste the city’s culinary scene, take a stroll around the streets of Districts 1 and 3. Here, you’ll find everything from steaming bowls of pho and crisp banh xeo pancakes to the tempting aromas of bustling street food stalls and lively food markets.
Today offers an exciting half-day tour of Ho Chi Minh City.
Your guide and driver will collect you from your hotel, and from here, you’ll be taken to Dong Khoi Street, one of Saigon’s most iconic boulevards. This elegant avenue runs through the heart of the old colonial quarter, where French architecture stands shoulder to shoulder with fashionable boutiques, art galleries, and charming cafés. Brimming with atmosphere and history, Dong Khoi has played a key role in the city’s story—from its colonial splendour, through the turbulence of war, to the bustling metropolis it is today. It’s also where Graham Greene set important scenes in his classic novel, The Quiet American.
You’ll pass the Saigon Opera House, a striking architectural masterpiece from 1901, which stands as a vibrant symbol of the city’s cultural heritage. Over the years, it has served as everything from an air-raid shelter to the home of South Vietnam’s parliamentary lower house, marking a remarkable history.
Next, you’ll visit the Central Post Office, designed by the world-renowned French engineer Gustave Eiffel. With its graceful arches, elegant ironwork and historic ambience, the building stands as a testament to the lasting influence of the French in Ho Chi Minh City.
Directly opposite the Central Post Office is the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, constructed between 1863 and 1880. With its distinctive red brickwork and soaring spires, this cathedral is an impressive legacy from the French colonial era.
Facing the church, you’ll find a grey building behind you that some might recognise as the “Pittman Apartments” at 22 Gia Long Street. This is the setting for the famous photograph taken by Dutch photographer Hubert van Es on April 29th, 1975, during the fall of Saigon. It’s where a helicopter landed on the rooftop—a scene many mistakenly believed took place at the American Embassy. Your guide will share the dramatic story of the evacuation and the hidden role this building played in the war’s final hours.
The tour continues with a visit to the historic Reunification Palace, the site where the Vietnam War—or the American War, as the Vietnamese call it—officially ended. On April 30th, 1975, a North Vietnamese tank crashed through the palace gates, bringing a close to a brutal conflict that claimed the lives of around 58,000 Americans and a staggering 3 million Vietnamese people. Here, you can explore the war rooms, grand reception halls, and the president’s office.
Next, you’ll visit the War Remnants Museum, offering a powerful and moving insight into the horrors of war. Its exhibitions depict the stark realities and lasting human cost left in the conflict’s wake.
The following stop is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s lesser-known sites—one rarely discovered by travellers on their own: the Saigon Commandos Museum. Here, a local citizen offers a rare glimpse into daily life during the war. The museum is housed in a modest dwelling from 1963 that, at first glance, appears to be a perfectly ordinary home. Behind its unassuming façade, however, lies a former operations base led by Tran Van Lai, a member of the Vietnamese resistance who lived undercover as a furniture maker while assisting Ho Chi Minh City’s commando units to hide weapons and plan their missions. The exhibits tell the story of these brave commandos, their strategies, covert operations, and survival under extraordinary conditions.
Finally, you can relax with a drink in the museum’s café, where you’ll have the opportunity to try their signature “butter beer”.
You’ll then be driven back to your hotel, where the rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish.
Today is yours to discover Ho Chi Minh City entirely at your own pace.
The city has many faces, and you have the whole day to seek out the sides that captivate you the most – whether that’s delving into history, exploring its creative urban vibe or sampling local flavours.
If you’re keen to experience the city’s contemporary energy, pay a visit to the Café Apartment, which sits right on Nguyen Hue promenade, the city’s grand pedestrian avenue. Once a residential block, Café Apartment is now home to quirky independent coffee bars, design shops, and creative studios. Each floor has its own unique character, giving you an authentic introduction to the youthful spirit of Ho Chi Minh City.
Alternatively, you might cross the river to District 2, one of the city’s fastest-growing neighbourhoods, marked by modern architecture, green spaces, and inventive cafés. Here, you’ll find a peaceful atmosphere with a mix of international restaurants, boutique shops, and little art galleries. The trendy Thao Dien area, in particular, is especially popular for its laid-back vibe, attracting both locals and travellers alike.
As dusk settles, stroll along Nguyen Hue promenade, surrounded by flowers, fountains and atmospheric buildings. This is where you’ll experience city life at its best, as locals gather with street performers, dancers and young families in a vibrant swirl. The mood is both relaxed and buzzing, all coming together around the illuminated city hall.
After sunset, why not round off your day with a mesmerising view across the sea of city lights from the top of one of Ho Chi Minh City’s skyscrapers, such as the Bitexco Financial Tower or Landmark 81.
After breakfast, your guide and driver will collect you from your hotel, and your journey will begin towards the lush Mekong Delta – one of Vietnam’s most fertile and life-giving regions. The Mekong River has its source in the Himalayas and winds its way approximately 4,500 kilometres through six different countries before splitting into its vast delta just south of Ho Chi Minh City. The delta itself covers an area of around 40,000 square kilometres, and how much of it lies underwater will depend on the intensity of the rainy season and the time of year.
You won’t have travelled far from Ho Chi Minh City before the landscape starts to transform. Along the way, you’ll notice green fields stretching out, and you’ll cross a patchwork of minor rivers and winding canals that traverse the flat terrain. It’s not uncommon to spot local farmers toiling in their fields, water buffalo grazing at the roadside, and little roadside stalls enticing you with freshly picked fruit.
After around two and a half hours’ drive, you’ll arrive in the city of Cai Be – a charming riverside town in the Mekong Delta, famed for its lush fruit orchards and authentic village atmosphere. Here, you’ll board a boat to explore the fertile delta. You’ll visit local workshops where skilled artisans craft products from coconut. Afterwards, continue by sampan – a traditional, hand-rowed wooden boat – gliding through the Mekong Delta’s narrow, winding canals.
Your journey continues with a boat ride to a tranquil island in the middle of the Mekong River, where you’ll enjoy a Vietnamese lunch prepared with fresh, local ingredients—surrounded by lush greenery and the peaceful rhythms of river life.
After lunch, you’ll return to the mainland and make a stop at a pottery workshop. Here, you can see how local artisans keep ancient traditions alive, and you’ll have the chance to hear about their passion for their craft.
Your next stop is our socal sustainability project in Vinh Long, initiated by our local partner. Here, a gentle walk through the village awaits, with your guide offering insights into the initiative along the way. You’ll also have the opportunity to experience traditional rural life firsthand. Together with local farmers, you can try your hand at rice cultivation—either planting young seedlings or helping with the harvest, depending on the season. This is an engaging and down-to-earth experience, giving you a unique perspective on daily life in rural Vietnam and the work that goes into sustainable agriculture. By joining the tour, you’ll also help make a difference for families in Vinh Long, as a percentage of the tour price goes directly to the project. You can find out more about it here.
After an exciting and insightful day, you’ll be driven to your accommodation in Cai Be, which is about an hour’s drive away.
Today, you’ll gain a unique insight into everyday life and the vibrant handicraft traditions in the small village communities of Tra Vinh. Tra Vinh is a peaceful and authentic provincial town in the southern Mekong Delta, characterised by a large Khmer population. Its colourful pagodas, tranquil pace of life, and spiritual atmosphere give the town a distinctive charm and set the scene for today’s experiences.
You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Cai Be and driven to the serene Ba Om Pond in the atmospheric town of Tra Vinh, just over a two hours’ drive away. Here, you’ll enjoy a gentle stroll around the pond before a traditional tuk tuk takes you to the Ang Pagoda and the Khmer Museum, where you’ll discover the area’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
Next, you’ll witness a performance of traditional Khmer music and dance in a local community hall—an evocative introduction to the region’s rich cultural legacy.
Your tuk-tuk will take you along the mellow roads of the village. The first stop is at a local family’s home, where you’ll get to taste com dep (green rice flakes) and see how popped rice is made.
The tour continues with a visit to a talented Khmer artist, who creates statues and masks for the area’s pagodas.
Next, you’ll head to the Lo Gach Pagoda, where you’ll take part in a private blessing ceremony. Afterwards, enjoy a stroll through the pagoda gardens and discover the rare macapuno coconut – a local delicacy famed for its silky, almost jelly-like consistency and sweet, aromatic flavour.
Finally, sit down to a delicious lunch featuring the very best of Khmer cuisine.
After an eventful day, you’ll be driven to your hotel in Ben Tre for your overnight stay. Ben Tre is a lush province in the Mekong Delta, known as Vietnam’s coconut capital. Here, you’ll be greeted by beautiful waterways, emerald palms, and a tranquil pace of life, giving you an authentic insight into riverside living.
Your Vietnam adventure comes to an end today. You’ll be collected from your hotel and driven to Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat International Airport. The drive takes around three hours, including stops along the way. From here, you’ll begin your journey back to Europe, with connecting flight(s) en route.
You will arrive at your selected airport after a wonderful tour filled with impressions, experiences, and memories to last a lifetime.
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Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s largest island and is located at Vietnam’s west coast, in Siambugtens warm water. The island has beautiful, palm-covered golden sandy beaches and dense green forests central to the island. The water surrounding the island is crystal clear and provides great opportunities for lovely a lovely swim in calm waters. Around the An Thoi islands there are excellent opportunities for diving and snorkelling to enjoy the beautiful reefs. The best time to visit the island is from November to April.
The extension includes a 3-night beach holiday at a hotel with breakfast, flight to Phu Quoc and transfers between the airport and the hotel at Phu Quoc.
Originally a small fishing village, Mui Ne has developed into a lovely, cosy beach holiday destination. The beach has fine, golden sand, and the sea is wonderfully warm. Along the beach, you’ll find small, local eateries serving delicious Vietnamese dishes.
Mui Ne is also famous for its huge red and white sand dunes. Discover how the wind constantly blowing in from the sea shapes the red and pale yellow sand into beautiful Sahara formations.
In southern Mui Ne, on the road to Phan Thiet, are the Po Shanu Cham towers, which were built by the Cham people in the 9th century. Neighbouring the towers is a fine Chinese temple. Both the towers and the temple are located on a hilltop with a nice view of the bay.
In the evening, you can stroll along the beach road, which is approx. 10 km long. Along it lie cosy coffee bars, restaurants and shops.
You can also head into Phan Thiet itself, where you can buy the town’s famous fish sauce, known throughout Vietnam.
The extension includes a 3-night beach holiday at a hotel with breakfast and transfers between Ho Chi Minh City and Mui Ne.
Special offers for groups of 6 or more. Request a quote today for more info.
Millie’s passion for travel sparked when she was little, and now she loves to help others fulfil their travel dreams
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