From Hanoi to Saigon: Unveiling Vietnam's Heritage

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Overview

Join us on a 12-day odyssey through Vietnam, 'From Hanoi to Saigon: Unveiling Vietnam's Heritage.' Begin your adventure by exploring Hanoi's city highlights, where ancient traditions meet modern vitality. Then, set sail on a mesmerizing cruise through the world-famous Halong Bay, where limestone karsts rise from the emerald waters.

Next, delve deep into the cultural heritage of Hue, a city steeped in history and tradition. Conquer the dramatic Hai Van Pass, offering panoramic vistas of coastal beauty, en route to the atmospheric Hoi An Old Town. Stroll through its enchanting streets and discover its timeless charm. Explore the archaeological wonders of My Son Sanctuary, an ancient Hindu temple complex.

Finally, journey into the past as you explore the Cu Chi tunnels, a testament to the resilience of the Vietnamese people during the war. This comprehensive tour is a window into Vietnam's captivating heritage and natural beauty, showcasing the diversity and richness of this remarkable country from Hanoi in the north to Saigon in the south.

Itinerary at a glance

  • Day 1:         Hanoi arrival
  • Day 2:         Hanoi city highlights
  • Day 3:         Hanoi - Halong Bay cruise
  • Day 4:         Halong bay - Hanoi - Dong Hoi - Phong Nha
  • Day 5:         Phong Nha jungle trek
  • Day 6:         Paradise Cave - Hue
  • Day 7:         Hue cultural heritage
  • Day 8:         Hue - Hai Van Pass - Hoi An Old Town
  • Day 9:         My Son Sanctuary
  • Day 10:     Hoi An - Danang - Ho Chi Minh city
  • Day 11:     Cu Chi tunnels
  • Day 12:     Saigon departure

Day 1 Hanoi arrival

Meal: not included | Accommodation: in Hanoi

Arriving at Noi Bai airport in Hanoi, you’ll find our driver waiting to take you to your hotel in the city center. Time for relaxing after the journey. You’ll spend the night in Hanoi.

Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is a captivating destination that offers travelers a rich blend of history, culture, and vibrant urban life. Located in the northern part of the country, the city is known for its seamless blending of tradition with modernity, making it a must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience the heart and soul of Vietnam. Whether you're interested in history, cuisine, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, Hanoi has something for all.

 

Day 2 Hanoi Orientation

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hanoi

Your day begins at 8:00 a.m. with a warm hotel pick-up, where we'll whisk you away to start your day orientating around Hanoi.

First, we'll delve into Vietnam's rich educational heritage with a visit to the prestigious Temple of Literature. Be enchanted by the beautiful architecture and tranquil gardens of this ancient university, a symbol of wisdom and intellectual achievement. Next, prepare to be captivated by the diversity of Vietnamese culture at the Museum of Ethnology. Immerse yourself in the fascinating exhibits that showcase the country's ethnic groups, their traditional customs, and colorful heritage.

After a delightful lunch tantalizing your taste buds with authentic Hanoi cuisine, in the afternoon, we continue our journey with a visit to the iconic Ho Chi Minh Complex to gain insight into the life of Vietnam's beloved leader as we explore the Presidential Palace, Stilt House, and One Pillar Pagoda.

Next, we'll immerse ourselves in Hanoi's bustling heart, the Old Quarter, navigating its charming alleys and partaking in an enticing street food tasting to savor the city's culinary delights. Finally, we'll be awed by the mesmerizing Water Puppet Show, a traditional art form that brings age-old tales to life. Back to your hotel before sunset time.

 

Day 3 Hanoi - Halong Bay

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: on board theTreasure Junk

8:00 to 8:30 am we will pick you up at your hotel and leave on our shuttle bus for a 3.5-hour drive to Halong City. 

Upon arrival, we'll board the Treasure Junk for a delightful cruise through Halong Bay, savoring a delicious seafood lunch (vegetarian and kid's options available). After lunch, take it easy and soak in the breathtaking scenery of limestone formations rising from the emerald water. Our first stop awaits at the convergence of Halong and Bai Tu Long waters, where you'll have the chance to paddle through the bay with our kayaks. As the sun sets, enjoy a cocktail on board while we sail to our night anchorage spot. Dinner will be served indoors or outdoors, depending on the weather. You'll spend the night in our comfortable, air-conditioned cabins with en-suite bathrooms aboard the Treasure.

Note: On our way to Halong, we will stop at a place with food, beverages, and souvenirs for sale. Please bear in mind that we are not trying to incite you to buy any product. This is just the only place on the way with proper facilities that our travelers, guides, and drivers can use without being forced to buy anything. Thanks for your understanding.

 

Day 4 Halong - Hanoi - Dong Hoi - Phong Nha

Meal: breakfast, lunch, dinner | Accommodation: in Phong Nha

Awaken to the serene misty bay at 6:30 a.m., where coffee, tea, and cakes await. You can choose to energize your body, mind, and soul with a 30-minute Tai Chi session led by our onboard master or simply bask in the sun with coffee. Later, embark on a bamboo boat to explore a secluded floating village, meandering through floating houses and rowing boats serving various purposes. Returning to the Treasure before 9:00 am, we'll cruise back to the pier, followed by a brunch at 9:30. As we bid farewell to the majestic rocks guarding the kingdom, we'll head to the pier and get a transfer back to Hanoi by our shuttle bus. 

You'll have free time until our driver arrives to take you to Hanoi airport for your flight to Dong Hoi. Upon arrival in Dong Hoi, our driver will meet you at the airport and transfer you to Phong Nha for your overnight accommodation. 

 

Day 5 Phong Nha jungle trek

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Phong Nha

At 8:30 AM, we'll be ready for a team meeting and get some outline of the trip details and safety briefing. We'll then set off for a 1-hour transfer by van to the trailhead and start our trekking through the Phong Nha jungle to Elephant Cave. Upon completing the most difficult 20 minutes of the trek you will be rewarded with the magnificent sight of a 60-meter-high, 300-meter-long Elephant cave.

Afterward, we'll journey to the pristine Ma Da Lake, where you can take a refreshing dip in its crystal waters and savor a delicious BBQ lunch by your porter (vegetarian can be catered for).  After lunch, the adventure continues as we trek to the captivating Tra Ang Cave where we have a chance to dive into the depths of this 600-meter cave and discover its secrets. We'll make our way back to Ho Chi Minh Road around 5:00 PM and toast to our remarkable journey with cold drinks. We'll go back to your hotel before sunset.

Fitness Level: Moderate, including 9 km trekking and 600m swimming

 

Day 6 Paradise Cave - Hue

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hue

Around 9:00, our driver will arrive at your hotel to take you on a self-guided visit to the Paradise Cave. Discovered in 2005, this remarkable cave spans an astounding 31.4 kilometers in length, ranking among the most extensive caves in Asia. The cave is equipped with 1km walkways allowing visitors to appreciate its mesmerizing stalactites and stalagmites.

After the cave, our journey heads southward to Hue with a stop at the remarkable Vinh Moc Tunnels. Built in secrecy between 1966 and 1967, these tunnels served as bomb shelters primarily for civilians. Life thrived underground during bombing raids, with children attending school, women giving birth, and families even watching movies. The tunnels stand as a remarkable testament to human labor, engineering, and determination.

Arrive in Hue in the late afternoon, hotel check-in, and spend the night at your leisure.

 

Day 7 Hue Cultural Heritage

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hue

8:00 - pick up from your hotel, your exploration begins with a scenic boat trip along the serene Perfume River, leading you to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a symbol of the city's historical significance dating back to the 17th century. Following this, a comfortable car transfer will take you to the Imperial Citadel, where you'll stroll along the ancient ramparts and delve into the intriguing relics nestled within. Savor the flavors of Hue during a delectable lunch at a local restaurant, where you'll indulge in the city's specialty dishes. 

In the afternoon, the exploration continues with a visit to the majestic Minh Mang Tomb, showcasing the grandeur of imperial architecture. Wrap up your day by visiting a delightful garden house in Thuy Bieu village, offering you the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing tea break with the welcoming host and engage in any questions you may have.

 

Day 8 Hue - Hai Van Pass - Hoi An Old Town

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hoi An.

9:00 am - depart from your hotel to Danang via the awe-inspiring Hai Van Pass. Get ready to go through a truly beautiful coastal road! The views from the top are simply excellent; we should be able to see Lang Co beach, the Laguna far below, and Danang spreading out in the south. We will understand why this is considered the prettiest road in the country. 

Once in Danang, we will have time to make a stop en route at the Marble Mountains before settling down at our address in Hoi An.

In the afternoon, we discover the enchanting beauty of Hoi An's Old Town on foot. Strolling through the ancient streets, you'll be captivated by the significant architecture that has earned Hoi An a UNESCO World Heritage status. Our guide will regale you with captivating tales and historical anecdotes, allowing you to truly appreciate the charm of this historic gem.

A visit to Hoi An is incomplete without trying one of the city's delectable street foods. We’ll take you to a local spot where you can relish the mouthwatering flavors of Vietnam, and choose a savory delicacy or a sweet treat that will tantalize your taste buds.

 

Day 9 My Son Sanctuary

Meal: breakfast | Accommodation: in Hoi An.

After breakfast, your guide will meet you at your hotel for an excursion to My Son Sanctuary. The journey starts with a trip through Hoi An rice paddies to Cua Dai bridge, weather permits, and we can catch up on the stunning view of sunrise over Thu Bon River from there.

Upon arrival at My Son, we begin with a short ascent along a track bordered by jungle and as we reach the top, the fascinating ruins appear. While you explore the area, your guide will explain the history of the religious site which served as a burial place for the Cham monarchs many centuries ago. After the walk, it’s time to enjoy a local café before leaving. We still avoid the main roads and stop en route to visit the local villages.

For an extra dose of excitement and adventure during your journey, we offer the option of exploring the region via an ArmyJeep transfer, which can be arranged for a small additional fee. If you're interested in this thrilling experience, simply inform us at the time of booking.

 

Day 10 Hoi An - Danang - Ho Chi Minh City

Meal: breakfast, dinner | Accommodation: in Ho Chi Minh City

Savor your free time at your own pace until our driver comes to bring you to Danang Airport, where your flight to Ho Chi Minh City awaits. Upon landing in Ho Chi Minh City, our team will be on hand to warmly welcome you at the airport and provide a transfer to your hotel. 

In the early evening, let’s adventure through the heart of Saigon after dark by joining our thrilling Night Motorbike Tour. Picked up from your hotel at 18:00, hopping onto a motorbike to join the city's vibrant rush-hour traffic. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting an open market, where the sights, sounds, and aromas of Vietnam come alive. Indulge your taste buds with a tantalizing array of street food, each a renowned gem of Saigon's culinary scene. Your journey takes a unique turn as you explore an old apartment building, a living testament to Saigon's history since 1968. Step inside a local family's home to gain deeper insights into Saigon's authentic way of life. This tour isn't just a ride; it's an exploration of Saigon's soul, its nightlife, and the hidden treasures that come alive in the moonlit hours.

 

Day 11 Cu Chi tunnels by speedboat

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Ho Chi Minh City

7:00 AM/1:00 PM - pick up from your hotel and take you to Bach Dang pier where you embark on a remarkable journey from the bustling heart of Saigon to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels. Leaving behind the urban sprawl as the riverbanks transform into a lush jungle within just 15 minutes. Soaking yourself in the picturesque scenery, savor a light breakfast featuring sandwiches or pastries, fresh tropical fruits, and a refreshing Vietnamese iced coffee. 

Arriving at the Cu Chi Tunnels, delve into the rich history of these underground passages, which played a pivotal role in the Vietnam War. Explore the network of tunnels, gaining insight into the resourcefulness of the Vietnamese soldiers who used them. 

Around noon, relish a delectable traditional Vietnamese lunch by the river. With your energy restored, bid farewell to the Cu Chi Tunnels and head back to Ho Chi Minh City at 11:30 a.m.

 

Day 12 Ho Chi Minh City departure

Meal: breakfast | Accommodation: not included

Time will be on your own until our driver arrives and takes you to Tan Son Nhat airport, at a good time for boarding your departure flight. End of our service.

If you're looking to conclude your adventure with a relaxing beach getaway, you may consider these two enticing options: Mui Ne Beach and Phu Quoc Island. Mui Ne Beach, a mere 3-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City, offers a diverse array of accommodations and an enchanting fusion of natural beauty, water-based activities, and tranquil relaxation. On the other hand, Phu Quoc, a tropical island accessible with just under an hour's flight from Saigon, is renowned for its unspoiled beaches, verdant scenery, and an assortment of attractions that cater to a wide range of traveler interests and preferences. Please feel free to contact our travel consultant for the best planning.

 

Price

Please SEND INQUIRY or CONTACT our travel consultant at info@handspan.com for the best offers.

Included

  • Accommodation as specified in the program
  • Meals as specified.
  • Travel in an appropriate air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced driver.
  • The services of an experienced English-speaking guide.
  • All entrance fees, visits, and activities as mentioned in the program.
  • VAT and other taxes.

Excluded

  • Flight tickets or visas.
  • Beverages, gratuities, and personal expenses.
  • Personal travel insurance.
  • Supplements in peak season.

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