Vietnam Authentic Cultural Tour: 17-Day Trekking, Heritage & Mekong Immersion

The Cradle of Learning (9:00 AM): Start your cultural journey at the Temple of Literature – Quoc Tu Giam, Vietnam’s first national university (11th century). Stroll through peaceful gardens to the iconic Khue Van Cac. Witness the World Heritage "stone steles," bearing the names of history's outstanding students—a moment of true academic reverence.

Tapestry of Peoples: Next, find deep insight at the Ethnology Museum (closed Mondays). Spend two hours immersed in the lives, costumes, and traditional houses of Vietnam’s diverse ethnic groups, offering a powerful look into the nation's cultural soul.

French Grandeur and Ho Chi Minh’s Modesty: The afternoon is dedicated to the elegant French Quarter. View the solemn Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum (outside) before a leisurely walk through the Botanical Gardens to the Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts, feeling the revered leader's enduring spirit and modesty. Conclude at the unique One-Pillar Pagoda.

Evening Enchantment: End the day with a magical Water Puppet Show. Watch the enchanting artistry as puppets glide on water, vividly narrating Vietnamese daily life and folklore, accompanied by mesmerizing traditional music.

Included: English speaking guide, Meal (B), Transportation, Entrance fees, Leisure: Water puppet, Mineral water.

Accommodation: Palago Boutique Hotel (Executive Room) *or similar

Escape to the Highlands (8:00 AM): Depart Hanoi, leaving the delta behind. On the way to Mai Chau, you’ll stop at a traditional Muong village, getting a first taste of Vietnam's mountain ethnic life.

Panoramic Conquest: Stop at Thung Khe Pass to conquer the vantage point, rewarding you with a breathtaking magnificent panoramic view of the green Mai Chau valley and its stunning mountainous surrounds.

Arrival in Mai Hich: Upon arrival in the peaceful Mai Hich village, check into your homestay and enjoy an authentic lunch cooked by your host.

Village Immersion & Warmth: Spend the afternoon in deep immersion. Trek along trails and concrete paths through villages and rice fields. You will be instantly seduced by the gorgeous harmony of landscapes. Do not miss the opportunity to connect with the incredibly friendly local people who embody the region's warmth, often welcoming you in for a cup of tea.

Authentic Trekking: Continue your exploration, passing rice fields to Xam Khoe, a Thai village that remains wonderfully untouristed. Absorb the perfect harmony between nature's beauty and rich human culture.

Trekking Distance: approx. 5–6 km.

Included: English speaking guide, Meal (B, L, D), Transportation, Mineral water.

Accommodation: Mai Hich Homestay (Sharing homestay) *providing genuine closeness to local life.

Pu Luong Nature Reserve Spectacle (8:00 AM): Depart from Mai Hich for Eo Ken, just 30km away, the gateway to the spectacular Pu Luong Nature Reserve.

Terraced Conquest: Walk down the slope and be rewarded with a spectacular view of the reserve, its majestic mountains, and the cascading rice field terraces. Visit a Muong ethnic family in Eo Ken village to discover their authentic daily life.

Valley Trek: Continue your trekking conquest through this beautiful landscape, crossing a stream to reach Hang Village, another stunning example of mountain valley living.

Trekking Distance: approx. 4–5 km.

Southern Drive: Transfer back to Mai Chau for lunch. Afterward, depart for Ninh Binh. The drive is scenic, offering views of the changing landscape—from rugged mountains to the lush Red River Delta. Check in to your serene Ninh Binh accommodation.

Included: English speaking guide, Meal (B, L, D), Transportation, Mineral water.

Accommodation: Nep House (Double Room) *or similar.

Active Immersion (8:00 AM): Choose your level of active immersion: a scenic 10 km bike ride (one way) or a 20 km round trip along the tranquil dyke. Glide past vibrant rice fields, rivers, and towering limestone karsts, stopping for perfect photographic moments and heartfelt interactions with local villagers. (Non-bikers have the option of scooter or car transfer).

Ancient Spiritual Sound: Continue to Thung La Temple (11th century). Experience the unique tradition of Vietnamese traditional musical instruments integral to the temple's spiritual life—a rare cultural treat.

Van Long's Tranquility: Embark on a peaceful sampan boat trip through the magnificent Van Long Nature Reserve. Glide silently among the mountains, fully absorbing the area’s tranquility. Keep an eye out for rare wildlife like the white-breeched langurs and egrets.

Artisan Craft and Closeness: Conclude with an intimate visit to an embroidery village. Join an engaging embroidery workshop led by local craftswoman, Mrs. Lam. This is your opportunity to practice on fabric like a real artisan and feel the closeness to Vietnam's meticulous handicraft tradition.

Return to Hanoi: Say goodbye to your host and enjoy the comfortable transfer back to Hanoi, where you'll be dropped off at your hotel.

Included: English speaking guide, Meal (B), Boat: Van Long, Transportation, Entrance fees, Bike: Tam Coc, Leisure: Thung La temple music, Mineral water.

Accommodation: Palago Boutique Hotel (Executive Room) *or similar.

Departure to the Coast (9:00 AM): Enjoy a comfortable two-and-a-half-hour drive from Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay via the new highway, crossing the rich landscapes of the Red River Delta.

Luxury Welcome (12:00 PM): Arrive at Tuan Chau Port and be warmly welcomed aboard the luxurious Peony Cruises. After an itinerary briefing, settle into your elegant Deluxe Balcony Cabin.

A Taste of the Bay (1:00 PM): Indulge in a special lunch featuring fresh local delicacies as you set sail toward Lan Ha Bay, one of the World’s Most Beautiful Bays.

Kayaking Conquest and Tranquil Immersion: Sail to the secluded Tra Bau area. This is your moment for natural conquest—grab a kayak to navigate and explore the untouched lagoons and limestone islands up close. Afterward, immerse yourself in the bay's emerald green waters for a swim or simply relax in the Jacuzzi pool.

Golden Hour and Culinary Warmth (5:30 PM): Join a fun cooking demonstration to learn the art of rolling Vietnamese spring rolls. Head to the top deck for Happy Hour (Buy One Get One Free) and witness the magnificent, fiery sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin—a photographer’s dream.

Intimate Dinner: Indulge in a delicious dinner served in a romantic, intimate setting. The night ends with optional cocktails, spa services, or trying your luck at squid fishing under the stars.

Included: Shuttle bus (Hanoi - Tuan Chau), English speaking guide (on board), Meal (B, L, D), Entrance fees, Kayak: Halong, Leisure: Swimming, Squid fishing, Cooking class, Mineral water.

Accommodation: Peony Cruise - 2D1N (Deluxe Balcony Cabin).

Morning Tai Chi Ritual (6:00 AM): Begin the day with a calming Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the sun rises over the horizon—a perfect way to energize the body and mind.

Underground Marvel (7:30 AM): Transfer to Cat Ba Island to explore Trung Trang Cave—one of the most impressive caves in the Cat Ba World Biosphere. Marvel at the thousands of uniquely shaped stalactites, offering a profound insight into the region’s geology.

Farewell & Flight to the Center (10:30 AM): Return to the cruise for an early lunch and check out. Disembark and meet your driver for the comfortable two-and-a-half-hour return journey to Hanoi on the new highway. Transfer directly to Noi Bai Airport for your flight to Da Nang.

Hoi An Welcome: Upon arrival at Da Nang Airport (DAD), your local guide and driver will provide a warm welcome and transfer you directly to your accommodation in charming Hoi An—a seamless transition to the heritage heart of Vietnam.

Included: English speaking guide, Meal (B, L), Transportation, Entrance fees, Leisure: Morning Tai Chi, Mineral water, Flight: VN181 (HAN - DAD).

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

Timeless Town Walk (8:00 AM): Start with a leisurely walk through Hoi An Ancient Town. Explore Cam Pho Communal House and discover the city’s timeless symbol: the Japanese Covered Bridge (Chua Cau), miraculously preserved for 400 years. Witness the lively architecture of Quan Thang Ancient House and the vibrant Phuc Kien Assembly Hall.

Artisan Mastery & River Pulse: Take the ferry across the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong Village, famous for its wood carving. Bike around the village to witness artisans at work, appreciating their inherited skills and local flair.

Rural Closeness and Hands-on Craft: Continue cycling to Tra Nhieu Village for true countryside closeness. Meet local masters: Ms. Duoc (mat weaving), Mr. Kha (bamboo basket making), and Mr. Huynh Ri (shipyard). The gentle landscape of palms and rice fields surrounds you.

Basket Boat Adventure & Culinary Warmth: Take a boat to Cam Thanh Village. Enjoy a small, round bamboo basket boat adventure in the water palm forest—a relaxing and highly fun moment. Take a rest at a fisherman's house, enjoy green tea, and receive a therapeutic foot massage with medicinal herbs. Then, join a hands-on cooking practice to prepare local dishes like crispy pancake (Banh Xeo) and Hoi An spring rolls. Enjoy the delicious dishes you made, sharing the culinary warmth of Vietnam.

Included: English speaking guide, Meal (B, L), Boat: Cam Thanh, Tra Nhieu - Cam Thanh, Transportation, Entrance fees, Bike: Hoi An, Leisure: Foot massage, Cooking class, Mineral water.

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

The Sacred Valley Conquest (8:00 AM): Spend a half-day conquering the history of the Champa Kingdom at My Son Sanctuary (40km from Hoi An). Recognized as a World Culture Heritage site, you will explore the 70 ruined works of brick and stone built between the 7th and 13th centuries.

Architectural Secrets: Your guide will unlock the profound cultural, historical, and architectural values of this ancient Hindu center, allowing you to walk among the spiritual echoes of a lost civilization.

Cultural Rhythm: Enrich your visit by attending a graceful traditional Champa dancing show before returning to Hoi An in the early afternoon. Enjoy free time for further exploration or leisure on the beach.

Included: English speaking guide, Meal (B, L), Transportation, Entrance fees, Mineral water.

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

Cham Heritage and Coastal Drive (8:00 AM): Depart Hoi An, traveling north via Da Nang. Stop to visit the Cham Museum, home to the world’s most important collections of Cham sculpture. Drive along the coastline, passing My Khe beach and the giant Goddess of Mercy statue at Linh Ung Pagoda.

Legendary Conquest: Hai Van Pass: Make a stop at the summit of the majestic Hai Van Pass (Sea Cloud Pass). Enjoy the breathtaking view of the ocean meeting the mountain range—a true moment of geographical conquest and an incredible photo opportunity.

Spiritual Highlight: Arrive in Hue and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, visit Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue’s oldest pagoda (1601), famous for its majestic octagon tower and beautiful view of the Perfume River—the spiritual highlight of the city.

Imperial Grandeur: Continue to the Hue Citadel, the only vestige of Vietnam’s former Imperial City. Explore the three layers—Kinh Thanh, Hoang Thanh, and the Forbidden City—and reflect on the grandeur of the Nguyễn Dynasty.

Included: English speaking guide, Meal (B, L), Transportation, Entrance fees, Mineral water.

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

Poetic River Cruise (8:00 AM): Begin the day with a serene Royal boat trip on the Huong River (Perfume River). Discover the poetic beauty and local life along its banks as you cruise to the eastern villages.

Village Rhythm and Hands-on Craft: Disembark for a bike ride through three villages: Tien Non, Thanh Tien, and Sinh. Immerse yourself in the daily rhythm of life here. In Thanh Tien village, meet artisans like Mr. Hieu and learn the delicate craft of artificial paper flowers (400 years old). In Sinh village, meet Mr. Phuoc to explore the techniques of traditional folk prints—these unique crafts provide wonderful souvenirs and a sense of closeness to Hue's artistic tradition.

Unique Royal Tomb: In the afternoon, drive to Khai Dinh King's Tomb. Marvel at its distinct mixture of oriental and western styles. Climb the hundred steps to the worship palace to discover the lavish decoration, a final flourish of imperial wealth.

Dynamic South Awaits: Transfer to Hue airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN). Upon arrival, your local guide and driver will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel, preparing you for the dynamic pulse of the South.

Included: English speaking guide, Meal (B), Boat: Sinh - Tien Non, Transportation, Entrance fees, Bike: Hue, Mineral water, Flight: VN1375 (HUI - SGN).

Accommodation: Elios Hotel (Senior Superior Room) *or similar

History’s Epicenter (9:00 AM): Start at the Independence Palace (Reunification Palace), once the political heart of South Vietnam. Explore the preserved rooms and the historic bunker basement, reflecting on the profound political history of the country.

French Grandeur and Urban Pulse: Enjoy a walk past the iconic Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral and the stunning Saigon Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel. Feel the dynamic pulse of the city on Nguyen Hue Walking Street.

Chinatown Bustle: Drive to Binh Tay Market in Chinatown, the city's largest and most chaotic market. Experience the sensory overload and vibrant exchange of goods, from clothing to exotic food.

Spiritual Oasis: Visit Quan Am Pagoda, one of the city's oldest, dedicated to Guan Yin. Finally, explore the Traditional Medicine Museum (FITO), a fascinating look at Vietnam's ancient herbal remedies and antique tools.

Included: English speaking guide, Meal (B), Transportation, Entrance fees, Mineral water.

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

Underground Resilience (8:00 AM): Leave the city for a profound excursion to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Explore parts of this massive, over 250km long underground city, dug by hand over twenty years. This is a visceral experience demonstrating the incredible resilience and resourcefulness of the Vietnamese people—a true historical conquest.

• (Optional: Try real gun firing at the Cu Chi shooting range - cost payable on the spot).

Unique Spiritual Discovery: Continue to Tay Ninh to visit the spectacular Cao Dai Temple. Caodaism is a uniquely Vietnamese religion, an eclectic blend of Eastern and Western faiths. If timed correctly, you can attend the colorful midday mass—a truly distinctive spiritual experience and a highlight of your cultural journey.

Included: English speaking guide, Meal (B, L), Transportation, Entrance fees, Mineral water.

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

Mekong Escape (8:00 AM): Transfer to Ben Tre, the beautiful coconut kingdom and heart of the Mekong Delta.

River Rhythm and Closeness: Take a charming boat trip on the Ben Tre River, observing the daily lives of the locals who live and work by the water. Continue by boat through a small canal to Nhon Thanh Village to taste fresh, tropical fruits.

Rural Conquest and Immersion: Take a bike ride (or Tuk Tuk) on narrow paths through coconut ranges and rice fields. Enjoy a special lunch featuring the local delicacy: Elephant Ear Fish. Take a short walk to discover the local life in depth.

Intimate Welcome & Culinary Exchange: Transfer to Cai Lay. You will be warmly welcomed by your host at the homestay. Immediately join in preparing the traditional regional dish, Banh Xeo Nam Bo (savory pancake), with your host—a perfect chance for genuine cultural exchange and closeness.

Included: English speaking guide, Meal (B, L, D), Boat: Ben Tre, Transportation, Tuk Tuk: Ben Tre, Cooking class, Mineral water.

Accommodation: Hai My's Homestay (Standard Room) *providing genuine warmth and authentic stay.

Fruit Garden Conquest (Biking): After breakfast, embark on a scenic bike ride (1–1.5 hours) through a stunning kaleidoscope of fruit gardens—durian, sapota, and longan. Interact with locals and visit the busy village market. (Non-bikers can ride pillion on a local motorbike or opt for a local walk).

Literary Pilgrimage: Transfer to Long Xuyen via Sa Dec. Visit the beautiful Kien An Cung Pagoda and, crucially, Huynh Thuy Le’s house—the immortalized setting of Marguerite Duras’s famous novel, The Lover (L’Amant). Discover the vibrant local market in Sa Dec, bursting with Mekong produce.

Onward Discovery: Continue to Long Xuyen, stopping to visit a Cao Dai temple and a local crocodile farm en route, experiencing the rich tapestry of life in this delta region.

Included: English speaking guide, Meal (B, L), Transportation, Entrance fees, Bike: Ben Tre, Mineral water.

Accommodation: Hoa Binh 1 Hotel (Standard Room) *or similar.

Authentic River Pulse (Morning): Take an exhilarating boat trip to the Long Xuyen Floating Market and Floating Village. This market is famous for being authentic and less touristy, giving you a true, unobstructed glimpse into the daily river life pulse on a small tributary of the Mekong.

Peaceful Island Biking: Continue by boat to Cu Lao Ong Ho Island (Mr. Tiger’s Islet), home to a small museum honoring President Ton Duc Thang. Enjoy a peaceful bike ride around the island, appreciating the quiet beauty of its landscapes.

Journey’s Reflection: After lunch, take the road back to Ho Chi Minh City. Check into your hotel in the late afternoon. This final drive offers a moment to reflect on the incredible journey—the highlands conquered, the heritage absorbed, and the gentle warmth of the Mekong people cherished.

Included: English speaking guide, Meal (B, L), Boat: Long Xuyen, Transportation, Bike: Long Xuyen, Mineral water.

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

Farewell: Enjoy your final breakfast in Vietnam. Our driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) for your flight to your next destination, carrying a treasure trove of authentic memories, cultural understanding, and the warm spirit of Vietnam.

Included: Meal (B), Transportation, Mineral water.