Vietnam's Cultural Heartbeat: A 21-Day Expedition

Hanoi

Start your day with a pick-up at 9:00 AM for a deep dive into Hanoi's rich history and culture. Your first stop is the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university. Stroll through its serene gardens to the iconic Khue Van Cac Pavilion and admire the World Heritage "stone steles," which record the names of outstanding students from centuries past.

Next, you'll gain profound insights into Vietnam's diverse heritage at the Ethnology Museum (closed on Mondays). Here, you'll spend about two hours exploring traditional costumes, musical instruments, and authentic houses of the country's many ethnic groups.

In the afternoon, discover the elegance of the French Quarter, often called "Little Paris" for its tree-lined boulevards and grand government buildings. You'll pass by Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum before a leisurely walk through the botanical gardens to see the Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts, a simple home where he lived and worked. The tour of this complex also includes a visit to the unique One-Pillar Pagoda, a symbol of the city.

The day concludes with a mesmerizing water puppet show, a traditional performance art that first appeared in the 11th century. Watch as puppets on water tell stories of Vietnamese daily life, culture, and beliefs, accompanied by traditional music.

Included:

• English speaking guide

• Meal: B

• Transportation

• Entrance fees

• Leisure: Water puppet show

• 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day

• Accommodation: Hong Ngoc Dynastie Hotel (Deluxe City View Room) or similar

Hanoi - Nghia Lo (200km - 5h)

Today, you'll leave the bustle of Hanoi behind and embark on a scenic drive to Nghia Lo. This journey takes you along National Road 32, which follows the majestic Black River (Da River), one of the most important in the Northwest. The landscape gradually transforms, giving way to rolling hills. You will make a stop in Thanh Son to visit a lush green tea plantation and walk through the tranquil stilt-house villages of the Muong ethnic group, a community with strong cultural roots in Vietnam. Upon arrival in Nghia Lo, you'll have the option to walk or bike through the local Thai village, discovering stunning rice field valleys and hamlets where authentic stilt houses are still preserved.

Included:

• English speaking guide

• Meal: B, L, D

• Transportation

• Bike: Nghia Lo

• 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day

• Accommodation: Nghia Lo Homestay (Sharing homestay)

Nghia Lo - Mu Cang Chai (100km - 2.5h)

After breakfast, visit a vibrant local market in Nghia Lo before heading to the awe-inspiring Mu Cang Chai. This region is famous for its magnificent rice terraces, widely considered among the most beautiful in the world. As you drive, you'll pass through hilly areas inhabited by the Dao ethnic group. You'll have plenty of opportunities to stop, take photos, and meet the friendly locals. Upon reaching Tu Le, you can enjoy a leisurely trek to a valley where the Thai people live in traditional stilt houses, offering a chance for authentic cultural encounters. The afternoon journey continues over the Khau Pha Pass, providing a splendid panoramic view of the terraced valley. The highlight of the day is reaching La Pan Tan, a legendary route for photographers, where you'll be captivated by the incredible masterpieces created by the Hmong peasant artists over generations.

Included:

• English speaking guide

• Meal: B, L, D

• Transportation

• Entrance fees

• 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day

• Accommodation: Mu Cang Chai Homestay (Sharing homestay)

Mu Cang Chai - Dien Bien Phu (220km - 5.5h)

Today's journey to Dien Bien Phu is a scenic drive through a breathtaking landscape of rice terraces and mountains. The route takes you along the tranquil Ban Chat reservoir and across the mighty Da River at the Pa Uon Bridge, offering fantastic photo opportunities. After lunch in Tuan Giao, you will continue through the regions of the Black and White Thai ethnic groups. Dien Bien Phu holds immense historical significance as the site of the decisive battle in 1954. Upon arrival, you will visit the War Museum, climb A1 Hill for a panoramic view of the valley, see the De Castries' Command Post, and visit the memorial honoring the French expeditionary force, a symbol of reconciliation between Vietnam and France.

Included:

• English speaking guide

• Meal: B, L, D

• Transportation

• Entrance fees

• 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day

• Accommodation: A1 Hotel (Double/Twin Room) or similar

Dien Bien Phu - Lai Chau (210km - 5h)

After breakfast, visit the local market near the historical Muong Thanh Bridge before departing for Lai Chau. This journey takes you through the heart of a land inhabited by numerous ethnic groups, including the Kho Mu people. You'll pass through regions of the colorful Hmong people, where you can stop to meet local women in their traditional dresses, adorned with intricate silver and gold jewelry. The drive is accompanied by the beautiful Nam Na River and its surrounding landscapes, offering a tranquil backdrop to your journey. You'll discover more Thai and Hmong villages along the way before arriving in Lai Chau City in the late afternoon.

Included:

• English speaking guide

• Meal: B, L, D

• Transportation

• 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day

• Accommodation: Muong Thanh Lai Chau Hotel (Deluxe Room) or similar

Lai Chau - Sapa (70km - 2.5h)

Today, you'll head to Sapa along the majestic Hoang Lien Son mountain range. First, you'll make a stop at Na Tam Village to visit the Laotian and Lu people. This is a beautiful and peaceful landscape, where Lu women are traditionally distinguished by their black teeth and indigo-colored clothing with silver coins. After a short walk to meet the locals, you'll transfer to Sapa, crossing the stunning Hoang Lien Son Pass (O Quy Ho Pass), the longest and highest pass in Vietnam. A stop at the summit will allow you to soak up the grandiose landscape and take incredible photos. Arrive in Sapa in the afternoon, where you can relax and enjoy the temperate climate.

Included:

• English speaking guide

• Meal: B, L

• Transportation

• 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day

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

Sapa - Bac Ha (100km - 2.5h)

Get ready for a full day of trekking! A short transfer takes you to the starting point in Y Linh Ho village. You'll follow a downhill path, encountering friendly H'mong ladies and children in their charming valley homes. Enjoy a moment of peace at the cable bridge, surrounded by the harmony of nature. For a challenge, take the uphill trek along the buffalo path for breathtaking views with fewer tourists. For a more leisurely pace, stroll along the Muong Hoa River.

You will then head to Lao Chai village, where you can meet a local grandmother, the last craftsman in her community to use traditional beeswax for decorating Hmong indigo clothing. It's a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in their daily life. The trek continues to Ta Van village, home to the Dzay people, offering amazing views of the river, rice terraces, and the Hoang Lien Son Mountain Range.

After a local lunch, you'll transfer to Bac Ha, a beautiful region known for its colorful markets and home to several ethnic groups, including the Hmong, Phu La, and Tay.

Included:

• English speaking guide

• Meal: B, L, D

• Transportation

• Entrance fees

• 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day

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

Bac Ha - Hanoi (320km - 6h)

Wake up early to visit a vibrant ethnic market (depending on the day of the week). Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere, where locals in colorful traditional attire trade everything from fresh vegetables and clothing to poultry. The markets are more than just a place to buy goods; they are a vital cultural exchange hub that has existed for centuries.

After the market, take a gentle walk through the idyllic ethnic villages that define the Bac Ha landscape, passing by cornfields, cassava hills, and traditional clay houses. You'll see plum gardens and H'mong women in their vibrant dresses as you explore. After lunch, you will begin your scenic drive back to Hanoi, arriving in the evening to check into your hotel.

Included:

• English speaking guide

• Meal: B, L

• Transportation

• 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day

• Accommodation: Hong Ngoc Dynastie Hotel (Deluxe City View Room) or similar

Hanoi - Hai Phong - Lan Ha Bay (140km - 2.5h)

A morning pick-up from your Hanoi hotel takes you on a comfortable 2.5-hour drive on the new highway to Lan Ha Bay. The journey offers views of villages and rice fields in the Red River Delta. Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed at the cruise port and transferred by tender to the luxurious Peony Cruises ship. After a welcome drink and a safety briefing, you'll settle into your cabin. Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch as you cruise further into the bay. In the afternoon, you'll reach the beautiful Tra Bau area for kayaking through the stunning karst formations and a chance to swim in the emerald waters. As the sun begins to set, join a cooking demonstration to learn how to make traditional Vietnamese spring rolls. The evening ends with a sumptuous dinner and free time for squid fishing or simply relaxing under the stars.

Included:

• Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau

• English speaking guide (on board)

• Meal: B, L, D

• Entrance fees

• Kayak: Halong

• Leisure: Squid fishing, Swimming

• Cooking class: Halong (on board)

• 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day

• Accommodation: Peony Cruise (Deluxe Balcony Cabin)

Hai Phong - Lan Ha Bay - Hue

Start your day with an invigorating Tai Chi session on the deck as the sun rises over the bay. After breakfast, you'll take a transfer to Trung Trang Cave, one of the most impressive caves on Cat Ba Island, filled with thousands of unique stalactites. After the cave exploration, you'll return to the cruise ship for an early lunch as it sails back to the port. You will check out of your cabin and disembark the cruise, where a driver will be waiting to transfer you back to Hanoi. In the evening, you will be transferred to Hanoi Train Station for your overnight train journey to Hue, a classic Vietnamese travel experience.

Included:

• English speaking guide (on board)

• Meal: B, L

• Transportation

• Entrance fees

• Leisure: Morning Tai Chi

• 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day

• Train: SE3 (Hanoi - Hue) - Deluxe (4 berths/cabin)

Hue (25km - 1h)

Arrive at Hue Railway Station in the morning, where our guide and driver will be waiting to welcome you to the ancient city. Your journey begins with a serene Royal boat trip on the Perfume River, allowing you to discover the local life along its banks. Disembark at Tien Non village for a charming bike ride through three villages: Tien Non, Thanh Tien, and Sinh village. You'll meet villagers working in their fields and visit a family worship house. In Thanh Tien, you'll learn about the 400-year-old tradition of making artificial paper flowers. In Sinh village, you'll meet a local artisan who will explain the techniques of traditional folk prints.

In the afternoon, you'll visit Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Hue's oldest and most spiritual landmarks, known for its majestic octagon tower and stunning views of the river. The final stop is the Hue Citadel, the imperial city of Vietnam, where you'll explore the Capital, Imperial, and Forbidden cities, admiring the palace of supreme harmony and other significant sites.

Included:

• English speaking guide

• Meal: B

• Boat: Sinh - Tien Non

• Transportation

• Entrance fees

• Bike: Hue

• 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day

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

Hue - Hoi An (125km - 3h)

Your day begins with a visit to Khai Dinh King's Tomb, a unique tomb built over 11 years with a fascinating blend of Oriental and Western styles. The climb to the top offers a panoramic view of the area. Afterward, you will drive to Hoi An along the Mandarin Road, passing over the scenic Hai Van Pass, where you can stop to take in breathtaking views of the ocean. In Da Nang, you will visit the Cham Museum, which houses the world's most important collection of Cham artifacts. You'll also get to walk along My Khe Beach before continuing to Hoi An.

In the afternoon, you will explore the well-preserved Hoi An Ancient Town, a former trading port from the 15th to 19th centuries. You'll visit the Cam Pho Communal House, the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, the authentic Quan Thang Ancient House, and the colorful Fujian Assembly Hall, each a testament to the town's rich cultural history.

Included:

• English speaking guide

• Meal: B, L

• Transportation

• Entrance fees

• 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day

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

Hoi An

Get ready for an incredible day of cultural immersion. You will begin by cycling to the Hoi An pier and taking a ferry across the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong village, a place famous for its intricate wood carving. You'll bike around the village, visit a carpenter's workshop, and gain a deeper understanding of their daily life and inherited techniques. Continue cycling along trails through rice paddies to Tra Nhieu village. Here, you'll have unique encounters with local artisans, like Ms. Duoc, a mat weaver, and Mr. Kha, who makes bamboo basket boats.

From Tra Nhieu, take a boat trip to Cam Thanh village, passing by fishing farms and water palm trees. The highlight is a relaxing round bamboo basket boat ride in the water palm forest, where you can try your hand at catching crabs. Afterward, enjoy green tea and a relaxing foot massage with medicinal herbs at a fisherman's home. The day culminates in a hands-on cooking class, where you'll prepare and savor local dishes like crispy pancakes and Hoi An spring rolls.

Included:

• English speaking guide

• Meal: B, L

• Boat: Cam Thanh, Tra Nhieu - Cam Thanh

• Entrance fees

• Bike: Hoi An

• Leisure: Foot massage

• Cooking class: Cam Thanh

• 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day

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

Hoi An - My Son - Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Embark on a half-day excursion to the sacred valley of the Champa Kingdom, My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site located just 40km from Hoi An. This was once the most important intellectual and religious center of the kingdom. Your guide will explain the cultural and historical significance of the 70 ruined brick and stone temples built between the 7th and 13th centuries. The tour is enriched by a traditional Champa dancing show. After the excursion, you will be transferred to Da Nang airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City, where our local guide and driver will be waiting to welcome you and transfer you to your hotel.

Included:

• English speaking guide

• Meal: B, L

• Transportation

• Entrance fees

• 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day

• Flight: VN143 (DAD - SGN) - Vietnam Airlines - Economy

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

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Today, you'll uncover the best highlights of Ho Chi Minh City, starting with a visit to the Independence Palace, the former home and office of the South Vietnamese Presidents. Your tour will include a look at the famous North Vietnamese tank that ended the war and a tour of the preserved five-story palace.

Continue with a leisurely walking tour to the picturesque Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral and the stunning Saigon Central Post Office, a working post office with a beautiful interior designed by Gustave Eiffel. You'll then be driven to Binh Tay Market in Chinatown, a bustling hub with hundreds of stalls selling everything from clothing to food. Next, you'll visit Quan Am Pagoda, one of the city's oldest pagodas, and the Traditional Medicine Museum (FITO), which preserves medicinal recipes and antique tools. The day concludes with a drop-off back at your hotel.

Included:

• English speaking guide

• Meal: B

• Transportation

• Entrance fees

• 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day

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

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) - Tay Ninh - Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Depart from your hotel for a powerful journey into history at the Cu Chi Tunnels, a striking landmark from the Vietnam War. This underground city, stretching over 250km, was dug entirely by hand by the Viet Cong. You'll have the unique opportunity to enter and explore a section of these incredible tunnels. You also have the option to enhance your experience by visiting the shooting range to try real firearms (optional service, not included in the tour price).

Next, you will visit the sacred Cao Dai Temple. Caodaism is a uniquely Vietnamese religion that blends elements of Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, and Roman Catholicism. If your visit aligns with the midday mass, you can witness this fascinating religious ceremony. After lunch, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.

Included:

• English speaking guide

• Meal: B, L

• Transportation

• Entrance fees

• 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day

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

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) - Ben Tre (150km - 3h)

Today you'll trade the city's energy for the tranquil waterways of the Mekong Delta. Your destination is Ben Tre, a beautiful region famous for its coconut candy. Upon arrival at Hung Vuong pier, you will embark on a boat trip on the Ben Tre River, immersing yourself in the daily life of the locals. The boat will then take you to Nhon Thanh Village, where you can taste fresh, local fruits. You'll then enjoy a bike ride (or tuk-tuk) along small village paths, admiring the serene views of coconut groves, rice fields, and vegetable gardens. Enjoy a delicious lunch with a local delicacy, "elephant ear fish," followed by a short walk to discover the local life in depth. Another boat ride on a small canal shaded by wild palm trees will add to the serene atmosphere. Afterward, you will be transferred to Cai Lay, where a warm welcome awaits you at a local homestay. You will take part in a cooking class to learn how to make Banh Xeo Nam Bo, a traditional local dish, before enjoying a delightful dinner and an overnight stay in Cai Lay.

Included:

• English speaking guide

• Meal: B, L, D

• Boat: Ben Tre

• Transportation

• Tuk Tuk: Ben Tre

• Cooking class: Ben Tre homestay

• 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day

• Accommodation: Hai My's Homestay (Standard Room) or similar

Ben Tre - Long Xuyen (90km - 2h)

After breakfast, enjoy a peaceful bike ride from Dong Hoa to Tam Binh, passing through lush durian, sapota, and longan gardens. You'll have the opportunity to interact with local people and visit a vibrant village market. Afterward, you will be transferred to Long Xuyen. On the way, you'll stop in Sa Dec to visit the beautiful Kien An Cung Pagoda and Huynh Thuy Le's house, made famous by Marguerite Duras' novel 'L’Amant – the Lover'. You'll also get to explore the local market in Sa Dec, which is brimming with fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish. The journey to Long Xuyen continues with a stop at a Cao Dai temple and a local crocodile farm. Upon arrival in Long Xuyen, you'll check into your hotel for the evening.

Included:

• English speaking guide

• Meal: B, L

• Transportation

• Entrance fees

• Bike: Ben Tre

• 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day

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

Long Xuyen - Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) (190km - 4h)

This morning, you will experience the lively and authentic floating market and village in Long Xuyen. A serene boat trip on a small tributary of the Mekong River will show you the daily activities of people who live and work on the water. You'll then take a boat ride to Cu Lao Ong Ho, a peaceful island with a small museum dedicated to President Ton Duc Thang. Enjoy a bike ride on the island, soaking in the beautiful, tranquil landscapes. In the afternoon, you will begin your journey back to Ho Chi Minh City, where you will check into your hotel in the late afternoon.

Included:

• English speaking guide

• Meal: B, L

• Boat: Long Xuyen

• Transportation

• Bike: Long Xuyen

• 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day

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

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Enjoy your last morning in Vietnam at your leisure. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping or to simply relax before your transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your flight home, filled with wonderful memories of your journey through Vietnam.

Included:

• English speaking guide

• Meal: B

• Transportation

• 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day