Vietnam 20-Day Journey: Pu Luong, Phong Nha Caves & Mekong Delta Discovery

Route: Hanoi | Accommodation: Hong Ngoc Dynastie Hotel

Today is a deep dive into Vietnam’s intellectual and cultural heritage. Start at the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu), Vietnam's first national university, where you can feel the weight of a thousand years of scholarship amidst the "stone steles" detailing the achievements of past scholars. Next, gain a profound insight into the nation’s diversity at the captivating Ethnology Museum (allow two hours to fully explore the unique houses and artifacts). In the afternoon, discover the elegance of the French Quarter—Hanoi’s "little Paris"—before exploring the solemn complex of Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and his peaceful House on Stilts. Conclude your cultural day with a magical Water Puppet Show, a unique art form where puppets dance on water, reflecting the daily life and beliefs of the Red River Delta farmers.

Included: Breakfast (B), Guide, Transportation, Entrance Fees, Water Puppet Show.

| Route: Hanoi - Mai Chau (145km - 3.5h) | Accommodation: Mai Hich Homestay (Shared)

Leave the city rush behind as we journey towards the tranquil mountains. Our drive offers a stunning transition, including a stop at a remote Muong village to witness their distinct culture. The conquest of the day is reaching the panoramic viewpoint at Thung Khe Pass, where you are rewarded with magnificent views over the valley. Arriving in Mai Hich, a breathtaking haven of green mountains and rice terraces, you'll check into a traditional White Thai homestay. After a delicious local meal prepared by your host, explore the village via a gentle bike ride (12km) or walk (6km) along the trails. Feel the perfect harmony of nature and connect with the friendly locals, who are always ready to welcome you with a cup of tea.

Included: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Dinner (D), Guide, Transportation, Bike Rental.

Route: Mai Chau - Pu Luong (40km - 1h) | Accommodation: Pu Luong Home (Shared bathroom)

Today, you fully embrace the closeness to nature of the Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Our adventure begins near Eo Ken, the Muong homeland, where a walk down the slope unveils spectacular views of rice field terraces. We'll visit a Muong family in Eo Ken village to discover their authentic life before trekking 4-5km to Hang Village. In the afternoon, upon arriving at your Pu Luong accommodation, we embark on another scenic walk (3-4km) in Chieng Lau. This area is famous for its lush fields and ingenious bamboo water wheels. Witness these ancient irrigation systems and experience the peaceful rhythm of life here.

Included: B, L, D, Guide, Transportation, Entrance Fees, Bamboo Rafting.

Route: Pu Luong - Ninh Binh (140km - 4h) | Accommodation: Nep House

Experience the final, exhilarating Pu Luong trekking adventure! Start the morning by hiking down into the valley from your lodge. The 5km trek takes you through spectacular, ever-changing rice fields, intermingled with villages, streams, and mountains, leading to Chom Uoi and Chom Lan villages. This walk offers countless unforgettable photo opportunities and a final moment of mountain serenity. After lunch, we transfer to Ninh Binh (approx. 3 hours). The drive is a picturesque blend of winding mountain roads and flat, rural landscapes, offering a glimpse into the daily life of the Vietnamese countryside before arriving at your tranquil accommodation.

Included: B, L, D, Guide, Transportation.

Route: Ninh Binh - Hanoi (100km - 2h) | Accommodation: Hong Ngoc Dynastie Hotel

Start the day with an active immersion! Choose an invigorating bike ride (10-20km) along the dyke, showcasing stunning views of rice fields and towering limestone karsts. We visit Thung La Temple, dating back to the 11th century, and enjoy a unique performance of traditional musical instruments. Later, prepare for a breathtaking sampan boat trip through the majestic Van Long Nature Reserve. As you glide among the towering mountains, keep an eye out for white monkeys and egrets on the cliffs—a moment of true natural splendor. Conclude your Ninh Binh journey by visiting an embroidery village to participate in an embroidery workshop with local craftswoman Mrs. Lam, learning the delicate techniques of this traditional art. We then return to Hanoi by late afternoon.

Included: B, Guide, Transportation, Entrance Fees, Boat Trip, Bike Rental, Embroidery Workshop, Thung La Music.

Route: Hanoi - Hai Phong - Lan Ha Bay (140km - 2.5h) | Accommodation: Peony Cruise (Deluxe Balcony Cabin)

The journey takes you from the bustling Red River Delta to the serene coast of Hai Phong. Board the luxurious Peony Cruises at Tuan Chau Port and set sail for the magical Lan Ha Bay (a stunning alternative to Halong Bay). After a special fresh seafood lunch, prepare for the highlight: visiting the unspoiled Tra Bau area. This is your chance for a thrilling kayaking session among the towering limestone islands, allowing you to connect intimately with the emerald waters. As evening approaches, join a cooking demonstration to master the art of Vietnamese spring rolls, or simply head to the top deck. Witness a magnificent sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin, savoring the serenity of the bay during the Happy Hour before indulging in a romantic dinner.

Included: B, L, D, Shuttle Bus, Guide (on board), Entrance Fees, Kayaking, Cooking Class, Squid Fishing.

Route: Hai Phong - Lan Ha Bay - Hanoi - Quang Binh | Accommodation: Overnight Train (Deluxe 4 berths)

Begin your day with an energizing Tai Chi session as the sun rises over the bay. After breakfast, we journey to Cat Ba Island to explore the impressive Trung Trang Cave, a limestone marvel featuring thousands of stalactites that reveal the geological history of the island. After checking out and enjoying an early lunch on the cruise, you disembark and are transferred back to Hanoi. In the evening, the transformation continues as you are transferred to Hanoi Train Station for an exciting overnight train (SE3) to Quang Binh. Rest comfortably in your Deluxe cabin, anticipating the geological discovery awaiting you tomorrow.

Included: B, L, Guide (on board), Transportation, Entrance Fees, Tai Chi, Overnight Train Ticket (Hanoi - Dong Hoi).

Route: Dong Hoi City - Phong Nha (70km - 2h) | Accommodation: Phong Nha Lake House

Arriving in Quang Binh, the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park, you immediately feel the call of adventure. Your journey starts by following the Son River by boat to the gigantic entrance of Phong Nha Cave. This famous cave, known for its underground river, offers a spectacular experience as you walk amidst the fantastic stalactites and stalagmites. After lunch, prepare for the ultimate underground conquest: Paradise Cave (Thien Duong cave). This is one of Asia's longest caves, and walking through its immense halls, marveling at the mystical and extraordinary formations, is a truly humbling and epic experience. Check into your peaceful hotel, ready to absorb the natural beauty of this remarkable region.

Included: B, L, Guide, Transportation, Entrance Fees, Boat Trip.

Route: Phong Nha - Quang Tri - Hue (230km - 6h) | Accommodation: Rosaleen Boutique Hotel

Today is a profound journey through history. We travel south, pausing at the incredible Vinh Moc Tunnels in Quang Tri. Walk through this 1.7km long underground city, built by local villagers as a bomb shelter during the war, providing powerful evidence of the Vietnamese people's heroism and resilience. Next, visit the iconic 17th Parallel demarcation line at the Ben Hai River and Hien Luong Bridge. This historical site vividly illustrates the division of Vietnam, offering a moment of quiet reflection. Continue your drive to Hue, the ancient imperial capital. Arrive in the late afternoon, free to stroll and explore the city's ancient charm at night.

Included: B, Guide, Transportation, Entrance Fees.

Route: Hue (25km - 1h) | Accommodation: Rosaleen Boutique Hotel

Your day begins with a tranquil Royal boat trip on the poetic Perfume River (Huong River), discovering the local life along its banks. Disembark at Tien Non village for a rewarding bike ride through the countryside, visiting three distinct craft villages. In Thanh Tien, you'll meet artisans continuing the 400-year-old tradition of making artificial paper flowers, and in Sinh village, you'll learn the techniques of traditional folklore prints from master Mr. Phuoc. In the afternoon, explore the spiritual highlight of the city: Thien Mu Pagoda, famous for its majestic octagon tower and stunning river views. Finally, immerse yourself in the Hue Citadel, exploring the Forbidden City, the Imperial City, and the Royal palaces that symbolize Vietnam’s last dynasty.

Included: B, Guide, Boat Trip, Transportation, Entrance Fees, Bike Rental, Paper Flower Workshop, Traditional Prints.

Route: Hue - Hoi An (125km - 3h) | Accommodation: Delicacy Hotel & Spa

Start your day by visiting the spectacular Khai Dinh King's Tomb, a stunning blend of Oriental and Western architectural styles, showcasing the exquisite decoration of the final Vietnamese Emperor. Then, embark on a magnificent drive to Hoi An via the iconic Hai Van Pass (Sea Cloud pass). Stop at the summit to capture the breathtaking view of the ocean and Da Nang city—a true highlight of coastal Vietnam. In Da Nang, visit the Cham Museum which preserves the most important Cham culture collections. Arriving in Hoi An Ancient Town, the afternoon is dedicated to a leisurely walking tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge (Chua Cau), the historic Quan Thang Ancient House, and the vibrant Fujian Assembly Hall (Phuc Kien), soaking in the unique, preserved atmosphere of this 15th-century trading port.

Included: B, L, Guide, Transportation, Entrance Fees.

Route: Hoi An | Accommodation: Delicacy Hotel & Spa

Prepare for a great day of discovery and interaction. Bike to Hoi An pier and take a ferry across the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong village, famous for its intricate wood carving. Cycle through the village, visit a carpenter's workshop, and feel the history of this unique craft. Continue cycling to Tra Nhieu village, where you meet local masters like Ms. Duoc (mat weaving) and Mr. Kha (bamboo sampan making). From Tra Nhieu, embark on a scenic boat trip to Cam Thanh village, known for its water palm forest. Here, you'll board a small, round bamboo sampan basket boat for a fun crab catching experience amidst the unique palm trees. The day concludes with relaxation: enjoy green tea and a therapeutic foot massage with medicinal herbs, followed by a hands-on cooking practice where you learn to make typical dishes like crispy pancake and spring rolls, savoring the fruits of your labor.

Included: B, L, Guide, Boat Trips, Bike Rental, Foot Massage, Cooking Class.

Route: Hoi An - My Son - Ho Chi Minh City | Accommodation: Elios Hotel

Start the day with an essential excursion to the sacred valley of the Champa Kingdom: My Son Sanctuary. Located 40km from Hoi An, this UNESCO World Culture Heritage site preserves 70 ruined architecture works built between the 7th and 13th century. Your guide will illuminate the cultural, historical, and architectural value of this site. The visit is enhanced by a traditional Champa dancing show. After lunch, you are transferred to Da Nang airport for a flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), the nation's vibrant commercial heart. Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, you'll be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel, ready for the next phase of your journey.

Included: B, L, Guide, Transportation, Entrance Fees, Domestic Flight (DAD - SGN).

Route: Ho Chi Minh City | Accommodation: Elios Hotel

Dive into the dynamic energy of Saigon. Begin at the Independence Palace, witnessing the North Vietnamese tank that ended the Vietnam War in 1975, and explore its preserved rooms and bunker basement. A leisurely walking tour takes you past the iconic Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral and the stunning Saigon Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel. Later, drive to the bustling Binh Tay Market in Chinatown, a hub of commerce and local delicacies. Explore the spiritual side with a visit to the ancient Quan Am Pagoda. Conclude your day at the Traditional Medicine Museum (FITO), where medicinal herb recipes and antique tools offer insight into Vietnam’s traditional healing practices.

Included: B, Guide, Transportation, Entrance Fees.

Route: Ho Chi Minh City - Tay Ninh - Ho Chi Minh City (100km - 2.5h) | Accommodation: Elios Hotel

Today is an exploration of resilience and unique spirituality. Leave the city for the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels, a striking piece of Vietnam War history. Explore this vast underground network, over 250km long, where the Viet Cong conducted resistance. You’ll have the chance to enter some tunnel sections and grasp the extraordinary determination required to build this subterranean city. Optionally, guests may try real gun firing at the Cu Chi range (at own cost). The journey continues to Tay Ninh to visit the sacred Cao Dai Temple. Caodaism is a uniquely Vietnamese religion blending elements of Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, and Catholicism. You'll have the chance to attend the colorful, moving midday mass, a truly special cultural sight.

Included: B, L, Guide, Transportation, Entrance Fees.

Route: Ho Chi Minh City - Ben Tre (150km - 3h) | Accommodation: Hai My's Homestay

The final phase of your Vietnam journey of transformation begins as we enter the lush, serene Mekong Delta. Arrive at Hung Vuong pier in Ben Tre, the 'coconut kingdom,' and embark on a boat trip to discover the rhythm of river life. Cycle (or take a tuk tuk) through the peaceful villages and coconut ranges, stopping to taste fresh local fruits. After a delicious lunch featuring the regional specialty elephant ear fish, enjoy a peaceful boat ride through small canals shaded by wild palm trees. We then transfer to Cai Lay where the warmth of the local host awaits you at the homestay. Participate in a hands-on cooking class, learning to make Banh Xeo Nam Bo (traditional savory pancakes), before sharing a traditional dinner with your host family.

Included: B, L, D, Guide, Boat Trip, Transportation, Tuk Tuk, Cooking Class.

Route: Ben Tre - Long Xuyen (90km - 2h) | Accommodation: Long Xuyen (Hotel TBC)

Embrace the vibrant, tranquil life of the Delta this morning. Enjoy a refreshing bike ride (1-1.5 hours) through a labyrinth of lush paths, passing vibrant durian, sapota, and longan gardens. Interact with local farmers and visit the bustling local village market before returning for refreshments. After checking out, we transfer deeper into the Delta to Long Xuyen. Here, you will visit the beautiful Kien An Cung Pagoda before arriving at the iconic Huynh Thuy Le's House. This beautiful, historic mansion is famous as the setting for the novel L’Amant (The Lover) by Marguerite Duras, offering a romantic and fascinating glimpse into the region's colonial past and cultural connections. Check into your Long Xuyen accommodation, having fully immersed yourself in the Delta’s unique charm.

Included: B, Guide, Transportation, Entrance Fees, Bike Rental.

Route: Long Xuyen - Can Tho - Ho Chi Minh City (200km - 4.5h) | Accommodation: Elios Hotel

Enjoy a slow, final morning in the Delta. Depending on your flight schedule, there may be time for an optional visit to a local rice paper making workshop or a small, local floating market near Can Tho before heading back to the bustling city. The picturesque drive back to Ho Chi Minh City allows you to reflect on the immense diversity experienced over the last 19 days—from the mountains of Pu Luong to the waterways of Ben Tre. Check into your hotel in Saigon for your final night. Enjoy a farewell dinner (not included) in this vibrant city, celebrating your incredible 20-day journey of discovery.

Included: B, Guide, Transportation.

Route: Ho Chi Minh City - Tan Son Nhat Airport

Enjoy your final breakfast in Vietnam. Depending on your flight schedule, you will have time for last-minute souvenir shopping or a final coffee before your guide and driver transfer you to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) for your departure, taking with you a wealth of memories from your transformative 20-day adventure.

Included: B, Transportation.