Mekong & Con Dao: 8-Day Southern Vietnam Heritage, Floating Markets & Pristine Island Seclusion

Emotion & Experience: Gain a powerful sense of historical understanding and admire the timeless elegance of colonial architecture.

9:00 AM: Our full-day tour begins at the Independence Palace (Reunification Palace), a profound historical site where the Vietnam War concluded. We explore the preserved 1960s-era rooms and the bunker basement, allowing for a moment of deep reflection on Vietnam's path to unification.

Next, we enjoy a leisurely walking tour through the city's charming colonial quarter. We pause to admire the stunning neo-Romanesque architecture of the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral and the magnificent Saigon Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel—perfect showcases of the city's French influence.

After an independent lunch break, the afternoon brings us to the War Remnants Museum. The exhibits offer a comprehensive and moving perspective on the Vietnam War, cultivating a profound sense of respect for the Vietnamese people's unyielding spirit and resilience.

We cap the day at the famous Ben Thanh Market. This bustling hub, open since 1870, is your chance to try some of the best local street food and pick up unique souvenirs, providing a final, lively culinary triumph.

• Included: English-speaking Guide, Breakfast, Private Transportation, Entrance Fees, Mineral Water (2 bottles/pax).

• Accommodation: Elios Hotel (Senior Superior Room) or similar.

Emotion & Experience: Feel a tangible connection to wartime history and witness the mesmerizing spiritual awe of the Cao Dai faith.

8:00 AM: We journey outside the city to the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels. This 250km underground network, dug entirely by hand, is a testament to the perseverance of the Viet Cong. The tour offers an eye-opening look at how life was sustained underground, and you'll have the option to crawl through a short section of the tunnels for a truly visceral experience. (Optional: Guests can try real gun firing at the Cu Chi shooting range for an added thrill, payable on the spot).

The journey continues to Tay Ninh for a visit to the magnificent Cao Dai Temple. This uniquely Vietnamese religion blends elements from multiple global faiths. If our timing aligns, you will attend the colorful midday mass, an unforgettable, highly visual ceremony that provides a moment of profound cultural insight.

Following a local lunch, we transfer back to Saigon in the afternoon.

• Included: English-speaking Guide, Breakfast, Lunch, Private Transportation, Entrance Fees, Mineral Water (2 bottles/pax).

• Accommodation: Elios Hotel (Senior Superior Room) or similar.

Emotion & Experience: Find closeness to nature and discover the genuine warmth of community life on Vietnam’s iconic waterways.

We leave Saigon behind and transfer to Cai Be, the gateway to the magical Mekong Delta. Upon arrival, we immediately board a traditional boat to experience the peaceful rhythm of life on the canals, surrounded by lush fruit orchards.

The exploration is wonderfully intimate: we visit local craft workshops specializing in traditional products like rice popcorn and coconut caramel. This hands-on interaction creates a strong sense of belonging. You can choose to cycle or walk through the peaceful village paths, taking in the serenity of the ancient Phu Chau Pagoda.

Lunch is served at an open-air restaurant, featuring the renowned local specialty, Elephant Ear Fish. The day is beautifully capped off as you are rowed in a small sampan under the shade of fruit trees, tasting fresh local produce—a perfect moment of Delta tranquility.

In the late afternoon, we continue our transfer to Can Tho, the heart of the Mekong.

• Included: English-speaking Guide, Breakfast, Lunch, Boat Trip (Cai Be), Private Transportation, Bike Rental (Cai Be), Mineral Water (2 bottles/pax).

• Accommodation: Ninh Kieu Riverside Hotel (Executive Superior City View) or similar.

Emotion & Experience: Experience the exhilarating discovery of the floating market, followed by a profound sense of escape to a remote island paradise.

An early wake-up call is rewarded with a trip to the Cai Rang Floating Market, the Mekong's largest and most vibrant floating marketplace. Witnessing hundreds of sampans filled with goods trading under the rising sun is a stunning sensory spectacle of color, sound, and life.

After the market, we venture deeper into the canals, visiting a lush fruit garden and the beautiful, colonial-era Binh Thuy Ancient House.

Later in the morning, we transfer to Can Tho Airport (VCA) for a short, scenic flight to Con Dao Island (VCS). As you land, you'll immediately sense the difference: Con Dao offers an atmosphere of untouched beauty and quiet seclusion. Our driver meets you and transfers you directly to your resort. Check-in and start embracing the serene beauty of this island retreat.

• Included: English-speaking Guide, Breakfast, Boat Trip (Cai Rang), Private Transportation, Entrance Fees, Flight Ticket (VCA - VCS), Mineral Water (2 bottles/pax).

• Accommodation: Con Dao Resort (Deluxe Sea View) or similar.

Emotion & Experience: Indulge in days of ultimate rejuvenation, finding unparalleled peace amidst historical and natural beauty.

These two full days are completely at your leisure to explore the unique dual nature of Con Dao.

Finding Tranquility & Depth:

• Relaxation: Sink into the quiet bliss of the island. Lounge on the powder-soft sands of secluded beaches like Dam Trau or An Hai, enjoying the clear turquoise water—a pure tropical escape.

• History: For a profound experience, dedicate time to exploring the island's poignant history by visiting the former Con Dao Prison Complex, which fosters deep reflection and respect.

• Nature: Explore Con Dao National Park, known for its incredible biodiversity. Optional activities include trekking, or snorkeling and diving to discover the protected marine life.

These days are designed for true rejuvenation and reflection, far from the crowds.

• Included: Breakfast.

• Accommodation: Con Dao Resort (Superior Mountain View) or similar.

Emotion & Experience: Depart with a deep sense of fulfillment and peace, carrying unforgettable memories.

Enjoy your final breakfast and savor the tranquil atmosphere of Con Dao. Enjoy your free time until check-out (before 12:00 PM). At the scheduled time, your driver will transfer you to Con Dao Airport (VCS) for your flight back to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), connecting you seamlessly to your onward destination and marking the end of your extraordinary journey.

• Included: Breakfast, Private Transportation, Flight Ticket (VCS - SGN), Mineral Water (2 bottles/pax).