Vietnam Grand Heartland Tour: 19 Days of Authentic Discovery from Mekong to Sapa & Bai Tu Long Bay

Today, we dive deep into the layers of Saigon. Begin at the historic Independence Palace, where you’ll trace the final moments of a controversial war, exploring preserved rooms and the fascinating bunker basement—a true sense of history. Next, enjoy a graceful walking tour past French Colonial gems like the Notre Dame Cathedral and the stunning Central Post Office (designed by Gustave Eiffel). The energy shifts as we venture into Chinatown to explore the bustling, sensory-rich Binh Tay Market—a true hub of local life. We then seek serenity at the ancient Quan Am Pagoda before ending the day at the captivating Fito Museum, preserving the secrets of traditional Vietnamese medicine.

• Included: Guide, Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Transport, Entrance Fees, Water, Accommodation.

Say goodbye to the city buzz and embrace the slow, gentle pace of the Mekong Delta. Your transfer takes you to Ben Tre, the lush "Kingdom of Coconut." Your journey starts with an exhilarating boat trip on the river, watching the daily life unfold. We transition to a smaller canal to Nhon Thanh Village for a taste of fresh, exotic fruits. Next, grab a bike (or tuk-tuk) for a charming ride through endless coconut ranges and paddy fields. After a delicious lunch featuring the regional specialty—Elephant Ear Fish—we take a peaceful ride on a wild palm-shaded sampan. The highlight of the day awaits in Cai Lay: a genuine homestay welcome. You’ll join your host for a hands-on cooking class, learning to master the savory Vietnamese pancake, Banh Xeo Nam Bo, before a warm, shared dinner.

• Included: Guide, B, L, Dinner (D), Boat, Bike/Tuk Tuk, Cooking Class, Water, Homestay (Hai My's Homestay or similar).

Start your day with an optional invigorating bike ride through local lanes and fertile gardens, past durian, sapota, and longan trees, culminating in a visit to a lively local village market. Later, we journey to Sa Dec, where literature meets history at Huynh Thuy Le's house—the real-life setting immortalized in the novel L’Amant (The Lover). Feel the echo of romance as you explore this beautifully preserved house. We continue to Long Xuyen, stopping to admire the unique multi-faith architecture of the Cao Dai Temple and a fascinating crocodile farm.

• Included: Guide, B, L, Transport, Entrance Fees, Bike, Water, Accommodation (Hoa Binh 1 Hotel or similar).

Before returning north, we experience the animated and authentic spirit of the Mekong one last time. Take a boat trip to the Long Xuyen floating market, an unforgettable scene of merchants exchanging goods on the water. We then cruise to Cu Lao Ong Ho (Tiger Island), where a tranquil bike ride allows you to soak in the peaceful river landscapes and visit a small museum dedicated to President Ton Duc Thang. Finally, we take the road back to Saigon, arriving in the late afternoon to prepare for your journey to Central Vietnam.

• Included: Guide, B, L, Boat, Transport, Bike, Water, Accommodation (Elios Hotel or similar).

This morning is dedicated to a moving and unforgettable historical immersion at the Cu Chi Tunnels. Explore the ingenious, vast underground network stretching over 250km, dug entirely by hand. Feel the resilience and determination of the people as you crawl through parts of the tunnels (optional). For the adventurous, there is an option to try real gun firing at the shooting range. We continue to the incredible Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh, where you will witness the mesmerizing, unique midday mass—a spiritual blend of global religions. After lunch, we transfer to the airport and fly to Hue, the imperial heart of Vietnam.

• Included: Guide, B, L, Transport, Entrance Fees, Domestic Flight (SGN-HUI), Water, Accommodation (Rosaleen Boutique Hotel or similar).

Our day begins with the tranquil majesty of Minh Mang's Tomb, a harmonious blend of architecture and nature. We then board a traditional dragon boat for a picturesque cruise down the Huong River (Perfume River) to Thuy Bieu Village. Here, the air is scented with grapefruit—known for its quality. We bike through peaceful lanes, interacting with villagers and visiting ancient garden houses. After a delightful village lunch, we visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue's spiritual symbol. The afternoon culminates at the Hue Citadel, where you walk through the Imperial, Royal, and Forbidden Cities, connecting with a profound sense of conquest and ancient power.

• Included: Guide, B, L, Boat, Transport, Entrance Fees, Water, Accommodation.

Get ready for one of the world's most scenic drives! We travel along the Mandarin Road, conquering the breathtaking Hai Van Pass (Sea Cloud Pass). Stop at the summit for a mesmerizing panoramic view where the mountains plunge into the turquoise ocean. In Da Nang, we pause to explore the world’s most important collection of Cham culture at the Cham Museum. Upon arriving in Hoi An, you’ll instantly fall for its preserved charm. The afternoon is a leisurely walking tour: admire the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, the authentic Quan Thang Ancient House, and the colorful Fujian Assembly Hall, soaking in the rich heritage of this ancient trading port.

• Included: Guide, B, L, Transport, Entrance Fees, Water, Accommodation (Delicacy Hotel & Spa or similar).

Today is an intimate, hands-on immersion into Hoi An’s countryside. We ferry across the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong village, famous for its intricate wood carving. Bike through rice paddies and bamboo bridges to Tra Nhieu village, meeting local artisans like Ms. Duoc (mat weaving) and Mr. Kha (bamboo basket making). From Tra Nhieu, the fun continues with a boat trip to Cam Thanh. Here, you’ll board a small, round bamboo sampan basket boat to enjoy the playful art of crab catching in the water palm forest—a truly unique moment of relaxation! The day concludes at a fisherman’s house where you’ll enjoy a green tea, a relaxing foot massage with medicinal herbs, and a final cooking practice of local specialties.

• Included: Guide, B, L, Boat, Bike, Entrance Fees, Foot Massage, Cooking Class, Water, Accommodation.

This morning, step back in time with an excursion to My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the most important intellectual and religious center of the ancient Champa Kingdom. Your guide will illuminate the historical, cultural, and architectural significance of these 70 ruined temples. Enrich your visit by attending the vibrant traditional Champa dancing show on site. Return to Hoi An in the early afternoon, leaving you free to relax, unwind, or enjoy the beautiful coastline.

• Included: Guide, B, Transport, Entrance Fees, Water, Accommodation.

Enjoy a leisurely free morning in Hoi An. Perhaps sip coffee by the river, browse the tailor shops, or take a final stroll. In the afternoon, we transfer you to Da Nang airport for your flight to Hanoi, the timeless capital. Upon arrival at Noi Bai Airport, our guide will transfer you to your hotel in the heart of the Old Quarter, ready for the next grand chapter of your journey.

• Included: Guide, B, Transport, Domestic Flight (DAD-HAN), Water, Accommodation (La Nueva Boutique Hotel or similar).

Today is dedicated to Hanoi’s rich identity. Start at the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu), Vietnam's first national university, soaking in centuries of scholarly history. Next, immerse yourself in the incredible diversity of the nation at the Ethnology Museum (closed Mondays). In the afternoon, we explore the contrast between the Parisian grandeur of the French Quarter and the sacred sites like the Ho Chi Minh Complex and the unique One-Pillar Pagoda. The day peaks with a fascinating walking tour through the labyrinthine Old Quarter, exploring ancient craft streets (Lan Ong, Lo Ren), culminating in the vibrant street food scene of Ta Hien Street. Finish this cultural feast with the unique tradition of a Water Puppet Show.

• Included: Guide, B, Transport, Entrance Fees, Water Puppet Show, Water, Accommodation.

Your mountainous adventure begins! We depart Hanoi for a scenic drive on the new highway to Sapa. After lunch, the feeling of conquest of mountains starts at the dramatic Tram Ton Pass, offering stunning views of Fansipan. We visit the towering Silver Waterfall before setting off on an inspiring trek to Sin Chai village, home to the Black H’mong people. Walk along pristine mountain paths, surrounded by magnificent rice terraces, learning about the distinct culture and lifestyle of this resilient ethnic group before returning to Sapa town.

• Included: Guide, B, L, Transport, Entrance Fees, Water, Accommodation (Sapa Elegance Hotel or similar).

Today, we go truly off-the-beaten-track. Depart Sapa to the secluded Ban Khoang village to begin a challenging yet deeply rewarding 12km trek. You’ll explore the primitive culture of the Red Dao, famous for their beautiful traditional attire, passing through stunning corn farms and rainforests with panoramic views of terraces. After a picnic lunch, we continue to Ta Phin village, where you can experience the Red Dao's unique traditional herbal bath. In the afternoon, we drive to the wild and beautiful region of Bac Ha, home to the colorful Hmong, Tay, and Phu La ethnic groups, ready for tomorrow's market excitement.

• Included: Guide, B, L, D, Transport, Entrance Fees, Water, Homestay (Thanh Mung Homestay or similar).

Wake up early to experience the thrilling, vibrant chaos of the Bac Ha Ethnic Market (or one of the region’s smaller markets, depending on the day). This is more than a market; it's a centuries-old cultural exchange, bursting with color, sounds, and exotic goods. To fully capture its energy, we must arrive before 10:00 AM. After the market, enjoy a peaceful walk through the surrounding idyllic villages and plum gardens, observing the traditional clay houses. After lunch, we begin the return journey to Hanoi.

• Included: Guide, B, L, Transport, Water, Accommodation (La Nueva Boutique Hotel or similar).

We drive through the picturesque Red River Delta to Ninh Binh. The day begins with an optional 15km bike ride along the dyke, offering glorious views of rice fields framed by limestone mountains. We visit Thung La Temple (dating back to the 11th century) and enjoy an authentic 20-minute drum show with the temple guardian. The highlight is a serene sampan boat trip through the magical Van Long Nature Reserve, a quieter alternative to Tam Coc, where you might spot rare white monkeys or egrets. Conclude your day with a visit to a local embroidery village, participating in an embroidery course with a local craftswoman, Mrs. Lam, connecting you to an ancient Vietnamese art form.

• Included: Guide, B, L, Boat, Transport, Entrance Fees, Bike, Embroidery Course, Water, Accommodation.

The pinnacle of tranquility awaits! We transfer from Hanoi to the port for your journey into Bai Tu Long Bay, the quieter, less-traveled section of the Halong Bay area. Upon boarding the elegant Swan Cruise, you’ll receive a warm welcome, safety briefing, and check into your Deluxe Cabin. Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch as we cruise into the breathtaking karst landscape. The afternoon is dedicated to adventure: kayaking through the breathtaking scenery around Cap La Island and swimming. As sunset paints the sky, join the Sunset Party and take part in a Vietnamese cooking demonstration (like making Nem Cuon) before a sumptuous dinner onboard.

• Included: Shuttle Bus, Onboard Guide, B, L, D, Entrance Fees, Kayak, Swimming, Cooking Demonstration, Water, Accommodation (Swan Cruise Deluxe Cabin).

Wake up to the serene beauty of the bay. Join a peaceful sunrise Tai Chi session on the sundeck to rejuvenate your mind and body. After breakfast, we explore the well-hidden secrets of Thien Canh Son Cave, admiring its natural splendor. Return to the boat for check-out and enjoy a final traditional Vietnamese lunch as the cruise sails back to the harbor. Upon disembarking, your driver awaits to transfer you back to Hanoi, where you have one final evening to reflect on your grand journey.

• Included: Onboard Guide, B, L, Transport, Entrance Fees, Morning Tai Chi, Water, Accommodation (La Nueva Boutique Hotel or similar).

After a final breakfast, enjoy a smooth and relaxed transfer from your hotel to Noi Bai Airport. Carry with you the memories of 19 days of profound discovery—from the coconut palms of Ben Tre to the ancient citadel of Hue, the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, and the majestic peaks of Sapa. We look forward to welcoming you back to Vietnam soon!

• Included: B, Transport, Water.