Legends of Vietnam: 15-Day Authentic Journey, Saigon to Pu Luong & Lan Ha Bay

A Day of Profound Contrast and Discovery

Start your day by stepping straight into the heart of history at the Independence Palace. Stand on the very ground where the Vietnam War concluded, exploring the preserved 1960s-era rooms and the eerie command bunker deep below. It’s a powerful, tangible connection to a pivotal moment in global history.

Next, plunge into the chaotic, yet exhilarating, life of Chinatown (Cholon). We explore the bustling Binh Tay Market—a sensory explosion of colors, sounds, and exotic aromas—before finding serenity at the ancient Quan Am Pagoda, dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy. To conclude the emotional journey of the day, we visit the War Remnants Museum , where poignant exhibits offer stark, all-sided views on the conflict. Return to your hotel with a deeper understanding of the city's resilient spirit.

• Meals: Breakfast (B)

• Accommodation: Sanouva Hotel (Premium Deluxe Double Room) or similar

• Included: English speaking guide, Transportation, Entrance fees, Mineral water.

Mekong Delta Immersion: Authentic River Life

Escape the city pulse at 8:30 AM for Ben Tre, the tranquil, green heart of the Mekong Delta. Upon arrival, you’ll board a private boat and immediately feel the pace slow as you cruise the Chet Say River. You'll stop at local, hands-on workshops: witness traditional brick making, discover how coconut shells are transformed into eco-friendly charcoal, and sample freshly made coconut candy while sipping honey tea.

The afternoon is pure immersion. Take a leisurely ride by motor cart or bicycle through peaceful village lanes, winding past rice fields and palm groves, connecting with the daily life of local farmers. The highlight? Gliding along narrow, shaded canals in a traditional rowing boat —a truly picturesque moment you won’t forget. Enjoy a delicious, fresh lunch at a riverside restaurant before returning to Saigon, refreshed by your day in nature.

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Sanouva Hotel (Premium Deluxe Double Room) or similar

• Included: English speaking guide, Boat, Transportation, Bike/Motor Cart, Mineral water.

Unseen Resilience and Ancient Charm

We begin the day with a deep dive into history at the Cu Chi Tunnels. Explore this astounding, 250km-long underground city built entirely by hand. You'll have the humbling option to crawl through a safe section, gaining a profound appreciation for the ingenuity and resilience of the Vietnamese forces. (Optional: Experience the thrill of real gun firing at the Cu Chi shooting range.)

Following this moving historical segment, we transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival, you'll enjoy a swift, private transfer to Hoi An, stepping into a town frozen in time. Settle into your stylish accommodation and prepare to explore the ancient charm awaiting you tomorrow.

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Flight: Direct Flight (SGN - DAD)

• Accommodation: Delicacy Hotel & Spa (Deluxe City View Room) or similar

• Included: English speaking guide, Transportation, Entrance fees, Mineral water.

Unlocking the Secrets of the Cham Kingdom

We journey out to the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the most important spiritual center of the ancient Champa Kingdom. Walk among the 70 ruined brick temples, standing as mysterious testaments to a vanished civilization from the 7th to 13th centuries. Your guide will illuminate the cultural and architectural values, and you will witness a vibrant traditional Champa dancing show before returning to town.

In the afternoon, the Hoi An Ancient Town beckons. Embark on a captivating walking tour, crossing the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge , visiting the beautiful Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, and exploring a traditional merchant's house like Tan Ky. Conclude your day wandering through the market, soaking up the atmosphere of this enchanting, lantern-lit living museum.

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Delicacy Hotel & Spa (Deluxe City View Room) or similar

• Included: English speaking guide, Transportation, Entrance fees, Mineral water.

The Great Drive & Imperial Grandeur

Prepare for one of the most scenic drives in Southeast Asia as we travel to Hue. Our first stop in Da Nang is the Cham Museum, home to the world’s most significant collection of Cham artifacts. Then, the real drama begins: ascending the legendary Hai Van Pass (Ocean Cloud Pass). Stop at the summit to capture breathtaking panoramic views of the azure ocean and the sweeping coastline —a photo opportunity you can't miss.

Upon arrival in Hue, we begin exploring its imperial past. Visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue's spiritual highlight, before entering the immense Hue Citadel. This vast complex, inspired by Vauban fortifications, is the single greatest symbol of Vietnam’s former Imperial City, composed of the Capital, Imperial, and Forbidden cities. Check into your hotel, ready for a taste of ancient royalty.

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Rosaleen Boutique Hotel (Deluxe Double Room) or similar

• Included: English speaking guide, Transportation, Entrance fees, Mineral water.

Hands-On Art and Poetic Rivers

Start your day with a graceful Royal boat trip along the poetic Huong River (Perfume River), traveling into the tranquil eastern villages. Disembark in Tien Non village for an unforgettable bike ride through Tien Non, Thanh Tien, and Sinh villages. You’ll be welcomed into homes, meet local farmers, and participate in two unique cultural workshops: learning the ancient art of making artificial paper flowers and observing the 400-year-old tradition of folklore prints.

In the afternoon, visit the magnificent Khai Dinh King’s Tomb, a stunning architectural fusion of Oriental and Western styles, distinguished by its elaborate porcelain decorations. Conclude the day with an exciting overnight rail adventure as you board the comfortable Deluxe sleeper train for your journey north to Ninh Binh.

• Meals: Breakfast (B)

• Train: SE2 (Hue - Hanoi) - Deluxe (4 berths / cabin)

• Included: English speaking guide, Boat, Transportation, Entrance fees, Bike, Mineral water.

Village Life and Traditional Craft Mastery

Arrive in Ninh Binh and transfer directly to the serene Nep House in the countryside. Start the day by choosing your exploration method: a scenic 10km bike ride along the river dyke, offering unparalleled views of rice fields and limestone karsts, or a relaxed transfer by car. We visit the 11th-century Thung La Temple and enjoy a captivating demonstration of traditional musical instruments.

Next, immerse yourself in a rare cultural opportunity with an embroidery course led by local craftswoman Mrs. Lam. This is a chance to truly master the needle, practicing this delicate traditional art. The evening culminates in a deeply rewarding, hands-on cooking class hosted by the warm team at Nep’s House, where you'll learn and enjoy authentic Vietnamese dishes you created yourself.

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Nep House (Double Room) or similar

• Included: English speaking guide, Transportation, Entrance fees, Bike/Scooter, Cooking class, Mineral water.

Architectural Fusion and Dramatic Karst Landscapes

Begin the day by visiting Phat Diem Cathedral, the "Catholic capital" of Vietnam, famous for its unique fusion of Western church architecture built in the style of a traditional Vietnamese pagoda—an absolute architectural marvel.

Next, it’s time for the iconic experience: the Tam Coc boat cruise. Board a private sampan boat for a ninety-minute journey along the Ngo Dong River, rowing through three natural caves and surrounded by dramatic limestone karsts and vibrant rice fields . This is why the area is famed as "Halong Bay on Land." Conclude your Ninh Binh exploration at Hoa Lu, Vietnam's ancient capital, visiting the beautifully preserved temples of the Dinh and Le Emperors. Finally, we transfer to Hanoi to prepare for the Northern mountain adventure.

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Dinner (D)

• Accommodation: Nep House (Double Room) or similar

• Included: English speaking guide, Transportation, Entrance fees, Mineral water.

Trekking Heaven: Conquering the Terraces

Today, we escape the cities and head into the magnificent, untouched wilderness of the Pu Luong Nature Reserve and Mai Chau. The journey itself is breathtaking. We begin our conquest of the terraces near Chom Lan Village with a rewarding, scenic 5-6km hike through spectacular rice paddies and lush forests to Ban Don Village.

Feel the profound sense of nature closeness as you explore these peaceful trails, meeting local Muong and Thai ethnic communities along the way. In the afternoon, we transfer to the tranquil Mai Chau valley, your home for the night, nestled amongst limestone hills and stilt houses—a perfect retreat.

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Tu Diep Bungalow (Bungalow Double) or similar

• Included: English speaking guide, Transportation, Mineral water.

Gentle Valley Cycle and Peaceful Farewell

Wake up to the serene beauty of Mai Chau. We explore Mai Hich village by bike or on foot (6-12km distance), cycling along trails where stilt houses, vibrant rice fields, and limestone mountains exist in perfect harmony. This is a wonderful opportunity to experience genuine local warmth and connect with the friendly White Thai people over a cup of tea.

After a final lunch in this peaceful valley, we begin the scenic journey back to the capital. Upon arrival in Hanoi, you’ll check into your hotel, ready for the final, dynamic chapter of your Vietnamese odyssey.

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: La Nueva Boutique Hotel (Premium Room) or similar

• Included: English speaking guide, Transportation, Mineral water.

Scholarship, Elegance, and a Living Museum

Begin the day exploring 1,000 years of scholarship at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university. Next, gain deep insights into the nation’s diverse people at the fascinating Ethnology Museum.

The afternoon is dedicated to Hanoi’s elegance. We explore the Ho Chi Minh Complex (outside the Mausoleum) and the unique One-Pillar Pagoda, followed by a drive through the beautiful French Quarter—the city’s "Little Paris." Finally, we dive into the famous Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Wander through the "36 streets," a sensory journey through tube houses, temples, and markets, providing the best authentic street food and shopping experience.

• Meals: Breakfast (B)

• Accommodation: La Nueva Boutique Hotel (Premium Room) or similar

• Included: English speaking guide, Transportation, Entrance fees, Mineral water.

Overnight Cruise in Tranquil Waters

Today, we embark on the majestic climax of your journey: an overnight cruise in Lan Ha Bay. Travel from Hanoi to Tuan Chau Harbor and board the elegant Sena Cruise. Enjoy a sumptuous lunch as we sail into the bay—an extension of Halong Bay, renowned for its tranquility and fewer visitors.

In the afternoon, we explore the serene, untouched natural beauty of the Dark and Bright Cave. You'll take a bamboo boat ride into this hidden lagoon or swim in the calm, emerald waters. Return to the cruise for a captivating sunset party and a fun, hands-on cooking class where you’ll learn to master traditional spring rolls. Anchor in a peaceful area for a night under the stars.

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Dinner (D)

• Accommodation: Sena Cruise - 2D1N (Deluxe Balcony Cabin)

• Included: Shuttle bus, English speaking guide (on board), Entrance fees, Bamboo Boat, Cooking class, Mineral water.

Sunrise Serenity and Cinematic Beauty

Begin your day with an invigorating sunrise Tai Chi session on the sundeck. After a light breakfast, we sail to Tra Bau, a peaceful area famous for its cinematic beauty (a filming location for Kong: Skull Island). Here, you can kayak to hidden lagoons and swim in the clear, tranquil waters, immersing yourself in the bay's peaceful atmosphere.

Return to the cruise for check-out and an early light lunch as the ship gently glides back toward the harbor. Our driver will meet you upon disembarking for a comfortable transfer back to your hotel in Hanoi.

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: La Nueva Boutique Hotel (Premium Room) or similar

• Included: Shuttle bus, English speaking guide (on board), Kayak, Morning Tai Chi, Mineral water.

Departure with Cherished Memories

Enjoy your final breakfast in Hanoi. Your private driver will meet you at the lobby for a comfortable and timely transfer to Noi Bai Airport (HAN). You depart with 15 days of incredible memories, having witnessed the Legends of Vietnam from its vibrant south to its majestic north.

• Meals: Breakfast (B)

• Included: Private transportation, Mineral water.