Vietnam Heritage: 17-Day Epic Journey from Saigon to the Ancient Caves of Phong Nha

our day begins with a deep dive into history at the Independence Palace. Walk the halls where history turned, descending into the chilling bunker basement and standing beside the North Vietnamese tank that crashed through the gates in 1975—a truly seismic moment. Transition to the architectural elegance of the French Quarter on a leisurely walking tour. Marvel at the majestic Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral and the stunning, Gustave Eiffel-designed Central Post Office, still a working monument to colonial artistry.

Next, experience the sensory explosion of Chinatown at the Binh Tay Market. This is an authentic hub, a vibrant chaos of aromas, colors, and local energy. Find moments of spiritual peace at the ancient Quan Am Pagoda, and conclude your cultural immersion at the Traditional Medicine Museum (FITO), where ancient medicinal secrets whisper through preserved tools and recipes.

Escape the city for the lush tranquility of Ben Tre, the Coconut Kingdom. Embark on a private boat trip on the Ben Tre River, observing the authentic, slow rhythm of Mekong life. Journey deep into narrow canals to Nhon Thanh Village for a fresh fruit tasting before claiming your cycling freedom. Pedal (or ride a Tuk-Tuk) along shaded village paths, weaving between emerald coconut groves, rice fields, and peaceful gardens.

Indulge in an exquisite local lunch featuring the famed Elephant Ear Fish. The day culminates in Cai Lay for your authentic homestay experience. You won't just eat dinner; you'll participate! Join your host in the joyful, hands-on ritual of making Banh Xeo Nam Bo (Southern savory pancake). Share this delicious, traditional dinner and feel the true local warmth as you settle in for the night.

Wake to the pure sounds of the Delta. After breakfast, choose your adventure: take an invigorating 1-1.5 hour bike ride through a landscape bursting with exotic flavors—pass dense durian, sapota, and longan gardens. Encounter smiling locals and explore a bustling village market. (Optional: Cycle to the fertile Ngu Hiep Island or ride pillion on a local motorbike for extended exploration).

Our journey continues to Sa Dec, where we embark on a literary pilgrimage. Visit the legendary Huynh Thuy Le's House, the setting that inspired Marguerite Duras’ classic, The Lover. Stand in the preserved home, feeling the echo of the romantic tragedy. Explore the vibrant Sa Dec market before checking into your hotel in Long Xuyen.

Experience the Mekong's unfiltered, beating heart on a morning boat trip to the Long Xuyen Floating Market. This smaller, animated market on a tributary offers a truly authentic and less-visited glimpse into the daily activities of those who live by the river.

Next, cruise to the tranquil Cu Lao Ong Ho (Tiger Island). Enjoy a peaceful bike ride across the island, absorbing the serene beauty of the rice paddies and orchards. In the afternoon, we take the road back to the energy of Saigon. Settle back into your hotel, ready for the historical and spiritual journey ahead.

Our morning is a powerful confrontation with history at the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels. Descend into this incredible 250km subterranean city, an unyielding symbol of Vietnamese resilience. You'll have the option to enter a safe section of the tunnels to truly appreciate the ingenuity of the Viet Cong. (Optional: Thrill-seekers can try real gun firing at the Cu Chi shooting range).

Next, witness a dazzling, spiritual spectacle at the Cao Dai Temple. This uniquely Vietnamese religion is a fascinating blend of global faiths. Attend the vibrant midday mass, a kaleidoscope of color, ritual, and unique architecture. After lunch, we transfer you to the airport for a smooth flight to Da Nang, followed by a short transfer to the magical, lantern-lit embrace of Hoi An. Accommodation: Delicacy Hotel & Spa (Deluxe City View Room) *or similar

Dive into the 400 years of preserved charm of Hoi An with a leisurely walking tour. Visit the ancient Cam Pho Communal House, cross the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, and step inside the Quan Thang Ancient House to glimpse a traditional family's daily life.

The adventure moves to the countryside! Ferry across the river to Kim Bong Village, home to master wood carvers. Cycle through the village, witnessing this inherited artisan talent. Continue cycling the peaceful trails to Tra Nhieu Village, meeting local masters of mat weaving and bamboo sampan basket making (the famous round boats!).

The ultimate reward awaits in Cam Thanh Village (Coconut Forest). After resting with green tea, enjoy a soothing foot massage with medicinal herbs. Then, participate in a hands-on cooking class where you’ll prepare local specialties like crispy pancakes and spring rolls. Conclude with a serene ride on a small, round bamboo sampan basket boat through the lush, emerald palm forest labyrinth.

Embark on a magnificent journey to Hue, starting with the coastal conquest over the Hai Van Pass (Sea Cloud Pass)—one of the world's most beautiful drives. Stop at the summit to capture legendary, panoramic ocean views. Along the way, visit the Cham Museum in Da Nang and admire the views from My Khe beach.

Arrive in Hue and immediately connect with its history at the 17th-century Thien Mu Pagoda, famous for its seven-story octagon tower. Then, step into the Imperial Citadel, the vestige of what was once the imperial city. Explore the Forbidden City (Cam Thanh) and the Imperial City (Hoang Thanh), feeling the majestic solitude of Vietnam’s ancient capital. Accommodation: Rosaleen Boutique Hotel (Deluxe Double Room) *or similar

Begin with a Royal boat trip on the poetic Perfume River (Huong River), discovering the local life on both banks. Disembark for a bike ride through three scenic villages. In Thanh Tien Village, a 400-year-old artificial paper flower hub, visit artisan Mr. Hieu's family to learn and practice the delicate craft of paper flower making—an artistic pilgrimage. Continue to Sinh Village, the cradle of 400-year-old folklore prints, to meet Mr. Phuoc who will reveal the techniques of traditional woodblock printing.

In the afternoon, visit Khai Dinh King's Tomb. Marvel at its stunning architectural fusion—a blend of Oriental and Western styles, distinguished by elaborate glass and porcelain fragments. Climb the hundred steps to the worship palace for a panoramic reward over the surrounding area before returning to your hotel.

Today is a profound historical pilgrimage. Journey north to the 17th Parallel, the former border between North and South Vietnam. Stand at the Hien Luong Bridge and the Ben Hai River—a powerful symbol of division and eventual unity.

Next, confront the past at the legendary Vinh Moc Tunnels. Walk inside this 1.7 km long, 3-level underground village, dug entirely by hand, which sheltered an entire community during the war—an extraordinary testament to unbreakable human resilience.

The day shifts to natural conquest as we arrive at Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (UNESCO). Board a boat on the Son River and journey into the mystical Phong Nha Cave. Explore its colossal river-carved chambers, admiring the fantastic stalactites and stalagmites on a leisure walk through this natural masterpiece. Accommodation: Phong Nha Lake House (Superior Pool view) *or similar

Wake up to the pure mountain air, ready to explore Asia’s longest dry cave—the magnificent Paradise Cave (Thien Duong Cave). Walk through a short forest path to the entrance, where you will step into a subterranean cathedral. Be amazed by the grandiose, mystical formations towering over you—a true terrestrial paradise that leaves you speechless.

In the afternoon, transfer to Dong Hoi city. Board the overnight train to Hanoi in your comfortable Deluxe 4-berth cabin. Enjoy a unique, nostalgic travel experience, letting the tracks lull you to sleep as you journey to the capital.

Arrive at Hanoi station and meet your guide. After a local breakfast and rest, begin your cultural deep dive at the Temple of Literature (11th century), Vietnam’s first national university. Continue to the excellent Ethnology Museum to understand Vietnam's rich ethnic tapestry.

The afternoon is an exploration of the French Quarter’s elegance and the life of Ho Chi Minh (visiting his Mausoleum exterior, house on stilts, and the One-Pillar Pagoda). The highlight is a sensory immersion into the Old Quarter's 36 ancient streets—from Lan Ong (Traditional Medicine) to Lo Ren (Metalwork). Conclude your day with a local beer or street food taste on Ta Hien street and the mesmerizing, unique performance of the Water Puppet Show. Accommodation: La Nueva Boutique Hotel (Premium Room) *or similar

Escape the city to the breathtaking Karst Majesty of Ninh Binh. We transfer through the picturesque Red River Delta. Choose to embark on a 15km bike ride (optional) along the river dyke, offering glorious views of rice fields and limestone peaks—a feeling of absolute biking freedom. Visit the ancient Thung La Temple and enjoy an authentic 20-minute drum show by the temple guardian.

Next, take a peaceful sampan boat trip into the Van Long Nature Reserve's hidden sanctuary. Glide silently among the mountains, keeping watch for the endangered white monkeys and egrets. Conclude your day with a visit to an embroidery village, where local craftswoman Mrs. Lam will guide you through a hands-on embroidery workshop—a beautiful moment of shared artistry.

Today, the ultimate natural wonder awaits! Enjoy a seamless transfer from Hanoi to the pristine, less-visited waters of Bai Tu Long Bay. Board the elegant Swan Cruise and settle into your Deluxe Cabin. Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch as we glide into this celestial cruise landscape of towering limestone islands.

The afternoon is reserved for active discovery: enjoy kayaking solitude at Cap La Island, weaving through the karst formations and finding private coves for swimming. As evening approaches, join the Sunset Party and take part in a Vietnamese cooking demonstration. After a sumptuous set dinner, try your luck at squid fishing or simply gaze at the quiet night sky from the deck. Accommodation: Swan Cruise - 2D1N (Deluxe Cabin)