Mekong to Hue: 9-Day Immersive Vietnam Cultural Heartland Journey

Begin your day at 9:00 AM with a profound journey through time. We start at the Independence Palace, where history dramatically concluded in 1975. Wander through the preserved rooms and the historic bunker, gaining a vivid understanding of the nation’s resilience and history. Next, enjoy a leisurely walking tour, admiring the majestic French colonial architecture of the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral and the stunning, functioning landmark of the Central Post Office (designed by Gustave Eiffel).

The adventure then plunges into the sensory explosion of Chinatown. Explore the sprawling Binh Tay Market, a true hub of local commerce where hundreds of stalls offer an intoxicating mix of sights, sounds, and smells. Find spiritual peace amidst the chaos at the revered Quan Am Pagoda, one of the city’s oldest and most sacred sites. We conclude at the FITO Museum of Traditional Medicine, where you’ll unlock the ancient secrets of Vietnamese healing arts. You'll return to your hotel with a powerful sense of having truly connected with Saigon's diverse soul.

• Included: English speaking guide, Meal (Breakfast), Transportation, Entrance fees, 02 bottles of mineral water, Accommodation (Elios Hotel or similar).

Today is a journey of powerful contrasts. Leaving at 8:00 AM, we first head to the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels. This is more than a historical visit; it's an immersive experience where you can crawl into the safe sections of the 250km underground network, gaining an authentic, sobering sense of the ingenuity and sheer willpower of the resistance fighters.

Next, we transition to the spiritual heartland of Tay Ninh to witness the extraordinary Cao Dai Temple. This is the moment for spiritual awe: you'll attend the vibrant midday mass, a visually stunning ceremony where five major global faiths merge in a harmonious, colorful spectacle unlike any other. After absorbing this unique blend of culture and religion, enjoy a delicious local lunch before your relaxing return to Saigon.

• Included: English speaking guide, Meal (Breakfast, Lunch), Transportation, Entrance fees, 02 bottles of mineral water, Accommodation (Elios Hotel or similar).

• Optional Thrill: Guests seeking adventure may try real gun firing at the Cu Chi shooting range (paid locally).

Escape the city pulse at 8:00 AM for the tranquil waterways of the Mekong Delta, specifically Ben Tre, the "Coconut Kingdom." Upon arrival, board your private boat trip on the Ben Tre River, instantly achieving a sense of closeness to nature. You'll discover the genuine rhythm of local life, gliding past lush orchards and visiting artisan workshops where you can sample delicious coconut candy.

The adventure continues with a bike ride (or Tuk-Tuk) along narrow village paths, offering uninterrupted views of rice fields and dense coconut groves. Find true rural charm as you taste fresh seasonal fruits. The culinary highlight is a delicious lunch featuring the regional specialty, Elephant Ear Fish. The day culminates with a peaceful small rowboat trip through canals shaded by wild palm trees, ensuring you carry the serenity of the Delta back to Saigon.

• Included: English speaking guide, Meal (Breakfast, Lunch), Boat (Ben Tre), Transportation, Bike (Ben Tre), 02 bottles of mineral water, Accommodation (Elios Hotel or similar).

Enjoy a final Saigon breakfast before your driver transfers you seamlessly to SGN Airport. Take your morning flight (VN118 / 09:00 - 10:30) to Da Nang, marking the transition from the bustling South to the ancient, poetic heart of Vietnam.

Upon arrival, your Central Vietnam guide will transfer you to your beautiful accommodation at the Delicacy Hotel & Spa (Deluxe City View Room or similar) near Hoi An. In the afternoon, the magic begins! Embark on a walking tour as the afternoon light illuminates the historic buildings. You’ll walk across the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, connecting with centuries of trade and culture. Explore ancient communal houses like Cam Pho, and step inside the preserved Quan Thang Ancient House, offering a personal glimpse into family life. The tour concludes at the ornate Fujian (Phuc Kien) Assembly Hall. Your day culminates with the unforgettable sight of Hoi An transforming into a shimmering spectacle as thousands of silk lanterns illuminate the night.

• Included: English speaking guide, Meal (Breakfast), Transportation, Entrance fees, 02 bottles of mineral water, Flight (Vietnam Airlines - Economy), Accommodation (Delicacy Hotel & Spa or similar).

Prepare for a day of deep cultural immersion and exploration! Meet at your hotel and begin an exhilarating cycling journey (or be transferred by Tuk-Tuk) across the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong Village, famed for its masterful wood carving. Admire the intricate skills passed down through generations and feel the legacy of the region’s finest artisans.

Cycle further through beautiful countryside trails, past rice paddies and bamboo bridges, arriving at Tra Nhieu Village. Here, you'll achieve an unprecedented connection meeting villagers: observe Mr. Kha making the famous bamboo sampan basket boats and Ms. Duoc weaving traditional mats.

From Tra Nhieu, take a boat to Cam Thanh Village and board a unique, circular bamboo basket boat. Experience the thrill of crab catching in the shade of the water palm forest—a truly fun, relaxing moment! Finally, return to a local fisherman’s house for a soothing foot massage with medicinal herbs, followed by a hands-on cooking class where you will master and then savor your own crispy pancakes and Hoi An spring rolls. This is a day that engages all your senses.

• Included: English speaking guide, Meal (Breakfast, Lunch), Boat (Cam Thanh, Tra Nhieu), Entrance fees, Bike (Hoi An), Leisure (Foot massage), Cooking class (Cam Thanh), 02 bottles of mineral water, Accommodation (Delicacy Hotel & Spa or similar).

Depart at 8:00 AM for the majestic journey to Hue. Our first stops in Da Nang include the Cham Museum, home to the world’s most important collections of the ancient Cham culture, and a walk on My Khe Beach for photos of the giant Goodness of Mercy statue.

The highlight of the transit is the drive over the legendary Hai Van Pass ("Ocean Cloud Pass"). We stop at the summit to capture breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and the azure ocean—a genuine moment of conquest and natural beauty.

Arrive in Hue, the former Imperial Capital, and immediately immerse yourself in its history. Visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, the spiritual symbol of the city. Then, step inside the formidable Hue Citadel, an inspired design of the Vauban style. Walk the hallowed grounds of the Imperial City and the Forbidden City, feeling the solemn weight and imperial grandeur of Vietnam's last dynasty. Check into the beautiful Rosaleen Boutique Hotel (Deluxe Double Room or similar) for your stay in this regal city.

• Included: English speaking guide, Meal (Breakfast, Lunch), Transportation, Entrance fees, 02 bottles of mineral water, Accommodation (Rosaleen Boutique Hotel or similar).

AM, board a Royal boat trip on the poetic Huong River (Perfume River), floating toward the eastern villages. Disembark at Tien Non to begin a gentle bike ride through the peaceful countryside of Tien Non, Thanh Tien, and Sinh. Feel the daily rhythm of life as you pass rice fields and interact with local farmers.

In Thanh Tien Village, you’ll discover the 400-year-old tradition of artificial paper flower making. Meet an artisan, Mr. Hieu, and learn to make a paper flower under his instruction—a wonderful skill to acquire. In Sinh Village, meet Mr. Phuoc, a master of 400-year-old traditional folklore prints. This immersion into local art provides a profound appreciation for Hue’s enduring culture.

In the afternoon, our focus returns to the imperial past at Khai Dinh King's Tomb. This architectural marvel stands apart due to its stunning fusion of Oriental and Western styles. A hundred-step climb leads you to the worship palace, where you’ll be struck by the amazing decoration of detailed porcelain fragments and the giant ceiling painting. The panoramic view upon descending offers a final, breathtaking look at the royal grounds.

• Included: English speaking guide, Meal (Breakfast), Boat (Royal Boat), Transportation, Entrance fees, Bike (Hue), 02 bottles of mineral water, Accommodation (Rosaleen Boutique Hotel or similar)

Enjoy your last delicious Vietnamese breakfast. Take a moment to reflect on your journey: from the resilient spirit of Saigon and the tranquility of the Mekong to the artistic mastery of Hoi An and the imperial history of Hue. Your driver will pick you up from the Rosaleen Boutique Hotel lobby and provide a professional, comfortable transfer to Phu Bai Airport (HUI) for your flight to your next destination. Safe travels!

• Included: Meal (Breakfast), Transportation, 02 bottles of mineral water.