Meal: not included | Accommodation: in Ho Chi Minh City

Upon your arrival at Ho Chi Minh City Airport, our team will be there to greet you and provide comfortable transportation to your hotel. You'll have some leisure time to refresh yourself and may choose to take a leisurely stroll to familiarize yourself with the city.

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is a vibrant metropolis that beckons travelers with its unique blend of rich history and modern dynamism. Steeped in a complex history, Ho Chi Minh City bears the marks of French colonial architecture, wartime remnants, and a resilient spirit that has propelled it into the 21st century. Wander through its narrow, bustling streets, and you'll encounter a mesmerizing juxtaposition of traditional Vietnamese culture and the relentless energy of urban life. Whether you're savoring a bowl of rice noodles, cruising along the Mekong Delta, or simply soaking in the city's lively atmosphere, Ho Chi Minh City promises an unforgettable journey through Vietnam's past, present, and future.

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

In the morning, we'll pick you up from your hotel and transport you to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, where you'll immerse yourself in the rich wartime history of Vietnam. Discover the intricate tunnel network, learn about guerrilla warfare tactics, and gain a deeper appreciation for the resilience of the Vietnamese people. 

Back to the city center for lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, we'll switch gears and head to District 1 for an easy walk among stunning French colonial architecture, breathing life into Saigon's heritage. We may start with the Reunification Palace, and continue to the City Hall, Opera House, Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, and the Central Post Office. There is also time for a delightful coffee break in a retro apartment building, providing a unique perspective on Saigon's vibrant culture. 

In the evening, we will embark on a mesmerizing adventure through the heart of Saigon on a thrilling motorbike tour. 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. 

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Can Tho

8:00 AM pick-up from your hotel (in the city center), followed by a comfortable car transfer to Cai Be. 

At 10:30 AM, we arrive at Cai Be, where you'll step aboard a traditional wooden boat, setting the stage for an exploration of the Mekong waterways. As we cruise along the river, you'll have the chance to hop on bicycles and delve into the charming river island landscapes. Along the way, we'll stop to visit local houses and farms, immersing you in their traditional crafts, offering delightful local snacks, and seasonal fruit tastings. A sumptuous lunch awaits you at a local restaurant, providing a taste of authentic Mekong flavors. 

At 4:00 PM, we disembark in Vinh Long and continue your journey with a car transfer to Can Tho, where you check in your hotel and enjoy the night in this “megacity” of the Mekong Delta.

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hoi An

After breakfast, a quick transfer takes us to the city pier to embark on a wooden boat which gives us a ride to the Cai Rang floating market. As you drift through the lively market scene, immerse yourself in the local culture, capturing mesmerizing photographs and engaging in lively conversations or friendly haggling with the amiable vendors.

We’ll then go back to the hotel for check-out. At 10:00 – our guide will drop you off at Can Tho Airport for boarding your noon flight to Danang.

Upon your arrival at Danang Airport (or train station), our team will be there to greet you and provide comfortable transportation to your hotel in Hoi An. 

In the afternoon, we will discover the enchanting beauty of Hoi An's Old Town on foot. As we stroll through the ancient streets, you'll be captivated by the significant architecture that has earned Hoi An a UNESCO World Heritage status. Our local 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.

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hoi An

Explore the picturesque Hoi An countryside on a delightful cycling tour! The adventure begins at 8:00 AM when we pick you up from your hotel and provide you with bicycles. We'll pedal our way toward Cam Kim Island, where fascinating experiences await. Along the route, we'll stop at a local house to learn about traditional handicrafts, gaining insight into the rich cultural heritage of the region. The excitement continues as we take an exhilarating bamboo basket ride and cross the river in a charming traditional boat. 

After working up an appetite, we'll savor a scrumptious lunch at a riverside eatery, relishing the local flavors amidst stunning scenery. We'll conclude the trip with a transfer back to your hotel. The trip ends around 1:00 PM

The total cycling distance is around 12 km (by city bicycles and at an easy level). If cycling is something not your favorite, a transfer by local motorbike or ArmyJeep can be arranged with a surcharge.

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hue

At 9:00 AM, we'll pick you up from your hotel, and the adventure begins as we visit the awe-inspiring Marble Mountain, where you'll be mesmerized by the natural beauty and spiritual significance of these limestone hills. There is also an opportunity to delve into the rich history of the Champa civilization at the Cham Museum if you wish to. 

After that, get ready for an unforgettable drive along the legendary Hai Van Pass, where breathtaking vistas and winding roads offer a truly exhilarating experience. Finally, we'll arrive in the ancient city of Hue, steeped in cultural heritage and architectural marvels. 

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hue

8:30 - 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.

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hanoi

Enjoy a leisurely morning on your own until our driver arrives to transfer you to Hue Airport for your flight to Hanoi. Upon landing in Hanoi, our guide will be waiting to greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel for check-in. 

After settling in, embark on an exploration of the enchanting Hanoi Old Quarter on foot, where you can savor the distinctive flavors of Hanoi's renowned cuisine. As we stroll through its labyrinthine alleys, our senses will be tantalized by the vibrant sights, sounds, and smells. Embrace the local way of life and interact with friendly vendors as we sample one or two of Hanoi's authentic food delights which are all tantalizing dishes that have made Vietnamese cuisine famous worldwide.

Meal: breakfast, lunch, dinner | Accommodation: in Tam Coc

8:30 - You will be picked up from your hotel in Hanoi by our guide and driver and head to Green Ninh Binh (the drive should take us less than 2 hours on the highway). 

Upon arrival, you will visit Hoa Lu, the ancient imperial capital of Vietnam back in the 10th century. Your guide will take you through the history of Vietnam a thousand years back by visiting some temples dedicated to the Kings. After that, you will drive through the scenic landscape and countryside villages to Tam Coc village and enjoy a home lunch at one of the village’s houses. 

In the afternoon, you will hop on your bicycles for an easy-paced ride to a local pier to board a rowing sampan for about one hour, sailing through the less-traveled canals of the region, whose beauty has nothing to envy the busiest ones. You will sail through caves and along the Thung Nham wetland, a part of the spectacular natural site of the Trang An landscape complex. After the boat trip, let's continue the cycling route through the scenic rural landscapes in Tam Coc to get a closer look at the villages’ rural life. 

As the sun goes down, we’ll head to Hang Mua (Mua Cave) for an adventurous 500 steps to a spectacular view. Once on top, enjoy the spectacular view of the rivers, rice fields, and villages in the surrounding area. Overnight in Tam Coc

If you prefer not to cycle, please inform your Handspan travel consultant. A very interesting and more relaxed tour program can be customized to meet your preferences.

Meal: breakfast, lunch, dinner | Accommodation: on board the Treasure Junk

After breakfast, we depart early for an approximate 4-hour drive to Hai Phong/Halong City through the Red River Delta region. You’ll arrive at a good time for boarding an overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay.

Upon arrival, we will board the Treasure Junk and start to cruise towards the boundaries of Halong Bay while a delicious lunch with fresh seafood is served (vegetarian and kid’s menus available).

Make yourself at ease and just relax after lunch. Hundreds of emerging limestone rock formations will parade all around us for about 2 hours before our first stop. We will reach the perfect spot, where the waters of Halong and Bai Tu Long hit and wave together. Let's get ready for a closer look at the water and explore the bay in depth paddling on our own kayak.

We’ll get back on the Treasure before sunset when we will be able to enjoy a cocktail on board while we will sail to the anchorage area where we will spend the night offshore. The dinner will be served either inside or outside on the deck, depending on weather conditions. Overnight on board in our cozy air-conditioned cabin with an en-suite bathroom. 

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: Night train - sleeper cabin with air conditioning

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 20:30 - it’s time to depart to Hanoi Railway Station to catch the night train to Lao Cai.

Traveling by train from Hanoi to Lao Cai offers a traditional and authentic experience. The train cabins are generally basic but functional. The default option is a 4-berth sleeper cabin, where you're likely to share the space with other passengers. We also offer an upgraded option of a 2-berth private cabin which provides more space and privacy, ensuring a cozier journey. 

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Sapa

Upon your arrival at Lao Cai railway station around 6:00 AM, you’ll be picked up and walked to a local restaurant for your refreshment followed by a hearty breakfast to energize you for the day ahead. 

After breakfast, a car transfer takes you to the captivating Ta Phin village, a place of cultural richness and natural splendor. Trekking through this picturesque valley, you'll immerse yourself in the Dao community, gaining insights into their way of life and traditions. After a delicious lunch at a local house, the adventure continues with more trekking, leading you through the enchanting Ma Tra area. In mid-afternoon, our car will be awaiting you in Ma Tra to transport you to Sapa town center, where you'll check into your hotel and have the evening to unwind at your leisure. 

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hanoi

8:00 – pick up from your hotel, we then start trekking from Sapa town to Golden Stream Valley. The trek offers some stunning views of the rice terraces, gardens, and Fan Si Pan mountain range. Immerse yourself in the local culture as we visit the welcoming homes of the Black H'Mong and Dzay people in Lao Chai and Ta Van villages, absorbing their way of life and traditions. This trek is relatively easy, though the trail can be quite slippery if it rains, so good footwear is recommended. 

A home-cooked lunch fuels us for an afternoon stroll, leading us to the main road where our driver awaits, ready to take us back to Sapa town.

Time will be on your own to explore the town, its market, and sloping streets with many colorful handicrafts.

14:0 - 14:30 Comfortable shuttle bus departs from Sapa to Hanoi. Enjoy beautiful views driving along the Hoang Lien Son mountain range. The bus is equipped with large individual seats, A/C, and wifi. There are 2 stops on the way and dinner is at your own cost.

You’ll arrive in Hanoi center at around 20:00 - 20:30. Upon arrival, a quick transfer will take you to your hotel in the city center for overnight accommodation.

Meal: breakfast | Accommodation: not included

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