Vietnam Authentic Journey 18 Days: Sapa, Lan Ha Bay & Mekong Delta Immersion

Step back into scholarly excellence at the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu), Vietnam’s first national university, and admire the UNESCO 'stone steles'. You'll then gain a deep, nuanced understanding of Vietnam’s diverse culture at the renowned Ethnology Museum. The afternoon offers a serene walk through the elegant French Quarter, witnessing colonial majesty, followed by a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Complex (outside view of the Mausoleum). Conclude your cultural day with a magical finale: the ancient, unique Water Puppet Show.

• Included: Meal (Breakfast), English speaking guide, Transportation, Entrance fees, Water Puppet Show, Mineral water

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

Enjoy the smooth, scenic transition from the Red River Delta’s plains to the majestic peaks of the North. Upon reaching Sapa, the adventure begins as you ascend to Tram Ton Pass, the highest mountain pass in Vietnam, where the air is crisp and the views of Fanxipang are panoramic—feel the first sense of conquest. Embark on an exclusive trek into Sin Chai Village, home to an isolated Black H'mong community. Witness their distinct culture and admire the breathtaking, steep terraced rice farms, providing a powerful closeness to nature.

• Included: Meal (Breakfast, Lunch), English speaking guide, Transportation, Entrance fees, Mineral water

• Accommodation: Sapa Elegance Hotel (Deluxe Room) or similar

Today is the ultimate immersion. Begin an off-road trek (12km) from Ban Khoang to Ta Phin, weaving through corn farms and rainforests, leading to the Red Dao villages. Observe their intricately embroidered attire and receive a family-like welcome. In Ta Phin, you can enjoy a traditional herbal bath—a soothing reward for your trek. We then transfer to Bac Ha, preparing for the next morning's market, nestled in wild and beautiful scenery.

• Included: Meal (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner), English speaking guide, Transportation, Entrance fees, Mineral water

• Accommodation: Thanh Mung Homestay (Double Room) or similar

Wake early to experience the unforgettable cultural symphony of the Bac Ha Market. This is more than trade; it’s a centuries-old social event where colorful Hmong, Phu La, and Tay groups converge. This lively atmosphere offers an authentic Vietnam experience. After the bustling market, enjoy a serene walk through the surrounding plum gardens, absorbing the quiet rural rhythm before the comfortable drive back to Hanoi.

• Included: Meal (Breakfast, Lunch), English speaking guide, Transportation, Mineral water

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

Escape the city for the spectacular landscapes of Ninh Binh. Cycle (optional) along picturesque rice fields, feeling the closeness to nature. Meet the temple guardian at Thung La Temple for an authentic conversation and a mesmerizing drum performance. Next, discover Van Long Nature Reserve by sampan boat, a less-traveled reserve promising serenity. The day culminates in a personal connection with craftswoman Mrs. Lam, who proudly initiates you into the secrets of traditional embroidery at her village workshop.

• Included: Meal (Breakfast, Lunch), English speaking guide, Transportation, Entrance fees, Sampan Boat (Van Long), Bike (Ninh Binh), Embroidery Course, Mineral water

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

Enjoy a seamless transfer to the coast, bypassing the crowds, to board your luxury cruise. You sail directly into Lan Ha Bay, the most unspoiled part of the Gulf of Tonkin. Enjoy a feast of fresh seafood as you sail, then kayak deep into the secluded Tra Bau Area, finding true tranquility among the limestone karsts. Conclude the day watching the magnificent sunset over the Gulf while learning to make fresh spring rolls in an onboard Cooking Demonstration.

• Included: Meal (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner), Shuttle Bus (Hanoi - Tuan Chau), English speaking guide (on board), Entrance fees, Kayaking, Cooking Demonstration, Mineral water

• Accommodation: Peony Cruise (Deluxe Balcony Cabin)

Start the day with rejuvenating Tai Chi on the sundeck. Explore the geological wonder of Trung Trang Cave in Cat Ba National Park, marveling at its thousands of intricate stalactites. After checking out, you'll be whisked away seamlessly—a comfortable afternoon flight delivers you to Da Nang, followed by a short transfer to the charming, lantern-lit coast of Hoi An.

• Included: Meal (Breakfast, Lunch), English speaking guide, Transportation, Entrance fees, Flight (HAN-DAD), Tai Chi session, Mineral water

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

Dive into the timeless beauty of Hoi An Old Town, admiring the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. Then, swap the crowds for a bike and cycle through the idyllic countryside. Meet local artisans in Kim Bong Carpentry Village and Tra Nhieu Village, witnessing generational crafts like mat weaving and basket making. The day is punctuated by a relaxing foot massage and a joyful cooking practice in a fisherman's house, connecting you to the heart of Central Vietnamese life.

• Included: Meal (Breakfast, Lunch), English speaking guide, Transportation, Entrance fees, Bike (Hoi An), Boat (Cam Thanh, Tra Nhieu), Foot Massage, Cooking Class, Mineral water

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

Journey to the Sacred Valley of My Son, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander among the 70 preserved temples and towers, feeling the powerful historical depth of the ancient Champa Kingdom. Your guide illuminates the unique architecture and religious significance. The experience is enriched by a vibrant traditional Champa dancing show. The afternoon is free for you to explore more of Hoi An or relax.

• Included: Meal (Breakfast, Lunch), English speaking guide, Transportation, Entrance fees, Mineral water

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

The drive itself is an adventure! Travel to Hue, stopping at the Cham Museum and making a photo stop at My Khe Beach. Then, ascend the Hai Van Pass (Ocean Cloud Pass) for breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean and coastline. In Hue, visit the serene Thien Mu Pagoda, then enter the colossal Hue Citadel, the ultimate symbol of imperial Vietnam, where history feels tangible.

• Included: Meal (Breakfast, Lunch), English speaking guide, Transportation, Entrance fees, Mineral water

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

Start the day with a Royal Boat Trip on the poetic Perfume River, feeling the calm of life along its banks. Cycle through idyllic villages, meeting artisans like Mr. Hieu to learn the delicate art of the Paper Flower Workshop. In the afternoon, explore the magnificent Khai Dinh Tomb, an opulent blend of Oriental and Western design, symbolizing the end of the monarchy. An evening flight provides a smooth transition to the dynamic South: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon).

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

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

Experience the relentless, vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City. Stand on the spot where the Vietnam War ended at the Independence Palace. Contrast this history with the refined colonial elegance of the Central Post Office. Dive into the bustling, fragrant labyrinth of Binh Tay Market in Chinatown and conclude with a fascinating discovery of ancient remedies at the Fito Museum of Traditional Medicine.

• Included: Meal (Breakfast), English speaking guide, Transportation, Entrance fees, Mineral water

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

Journey back in time to the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels, a profound testament to Vietnamese resilience and ingenuity. Crawl through a section of the 250km network (optional) to truly grasp the hardship. Then, be captivated by the mesmerizing spiritual ceremony at the Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh, witnessing a unique faith that blends global religions into a colorful, harmonious spectacle.

• Included: Meal (Breakfast, Lunch), English speaking guide, Transportation, Entrance fees, Mineral water

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

The scenic drive into the tranquil Delta region begins your deep dive into the South. After a boat trip in Cai Be, exploring the lush islands and fruit gardens, you travel to the less-visited area of Long Xuyen. Stop in Sa Dec to visit the hauntingly beautiful Huynh Thuy Le's House, famously featured in Marguerite Duras’ novel, L’Amant (The Lover). This stop offers a romantic, literary connection to the region's history.

• Included: Meal (Breakfast, Lunch), English speaking guide, Transportation, Entrance fees, Boat (Cai Be), Mineral water

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

Start before dawn to witness the truly authentic Long Xuyen Floating Market—an animated scene of commerce on the water. Cycle on Cu Lao Ong Ho Island for a dose of serene, rural Delta life. The afternoon climax is the Tra Su Cajuput Forest in Chau Doc, where you glide by sampan through a magical, submerged cajuput forest, home to a famous bird sanctuary. Conclude the day atop Sam Mountain (Nui Sam), capturing an awesome sunset over the Vietnam-Cambodia border.

• Included: Meal (Breakfast, Lunch), English speaking guide, Transportation, Entrance fees, Boat (Long Xuyen, Tra Su, Chau Doc), Bike (Long Xuyen), Mineral water

• Accommodation: Chau Pho Hotel (Superior Room) or similar

Enjoy a final scenic drive through the Mekong Delta landscape, crossing the river by ferry and reflecting on the depth of your journey. The day is designed for rest and reflection before your final night in dynamic Saigon. Optional Thrill: Take the high-speed boat (7:00 AM) direct from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh, Cambodia, for an exciting tour extension.

• Included: Meal (Breakfast), English speaking guide, Transportation, Mineral water

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

Enjoy a final Vietnamese breakfast before your seamless, private transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your onward flight, carrying memories of conquest, warmth, and discovery.

• Included: Meal (Breakfast), Transportation, Mineral water

This comprehensive, 18-day itinerary is designed to turn your travel dreams into an authentic, life-changing reality. Secure your Vietnam Authentic Journey today.