Vietnam's Epic Trail: 17-Day South-to-North Cultural Odyssey from Mekong to Bai Tu Long

Experience the Contrast: Start with a deep dive into seismic history at the Independence Palace, where the controversial Vietnam War officially ended. Explore the preserved rooms and the historic bunker, feeling the echoes of a pivotal era. Continue your leisurely walking tour past the stunning Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral and the magnificent, Gustave Eiffel-designed Central Post Office—architectural treasures reflecting French colonial influence.

Next, we drive into the labyrinthine streets of Chinatown to experience the sensory explosion of Binh Tay Market. This hub is a carnival of commerce, aromas, and local life! Find serenity at the ancient Quan Am Pagoda, and conclude your cultural immersion at the Traditional Medicine Museum (FITO), where medicinal herb recipes and antique tools whisper secrets of ancient healing. Included: Meal: B, Entrance fees

Experience the Mekong Magic: Escape the city bustle and journey to Ben Tre, the lush "Coconut Kingdom" of the Mekong Delta. From Hung Vuong pier, embark on a scenic boat trip across the Ben Tre River, observing the authentic daily rhythm of river life. We journey deep into the canals, arriving at Nhon Thanh Village for a refreshing fruit tasting. Feel the closeness to nature during an immersive bike ride (or Tuk-Tuk) through emerald coconut groves and fertile rice fields.

A local lunch awaits, featuring the regional delicacy, Elephant Ear Fish. The day culminates in a transfer to Cai Lay for a truly intimate homestay experience. Your welcoming host will guide you through the authentic cooking ritual of making Banh Xeo Nam Bo (Southern savory pancake). Share this delicious dinner, soaking in the profound local connection of an overnight stay. Included: Meal: B, L, D, Boat, Tuk Tuk, Cooking class

Experience the Gardens: After a homestay breakfast, grab a bike for a 1-1.5 hour cycling exploration through the path from Dong Hoa to Tam Binh. This is cycling paradise, passing through dense durian, sapota, and longan gardens. Interact with farmers and visit the bustling local market. A longer island cycling option or motorbike pillion ride is available for the truly adventurous.

We then transfer to Long Xuyen, stopping in Sa Dec. Here, you embark on a literary pilgrimage to the famed Huynh Thuy Le's House, the setting of Marguerite Duras’ classic novel, 'L’Amant – the Lover'—a site of tragic beauty. Visit the peaceful Kien An Cung Pagoda and explore Sa Dec's vibrant local market before checking into your hotel in Long Xuyen. Included: Meal: B, L, Entrance fees, Bike

Experience Unfiltered Reality: Today, we explore the unfiltered, authentic rhythm of the Mekong on a boat trip to the Long Xuyen floating market and village. Unlike larger commercial spots, this smaller, animated market on a tributary provides a genuine look at daily life.

Next, cruise to the tranquil Cu Lao Ong Ho (Tiger Island). Enjoy a peaceful bike ride across the island, soaking in the quiet beauty of the river landscapes and visiting a small museum about President Ton Duc Thang. Finally, take the road back to the vibrant energy of Saigon, arriving in the late afternoon to prepare for your flight North. Included: Meal: B, L, Boat, Bike

Experience Resilience and Faith: Start with a powerful journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a striking symbol of Vietnam's monumental resilience. Venture into a safe section of this 250km subterranean city to truly appreciate the ingenious engineering. (Optional: test your aim at the shooting range for an extra thrill).

We then continue to Tay Ninh to witness the spectacular midday mass at the Cao Dai Temple. This is a kaleidoscope of faith—a uniquely Vietnamese religion blending Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, and Catholicism into a dazzling architectural and spiritual experience. After lunch, we transfer you to the airport for your flight to Da Nang, followed by a short transfer to the lantern-lit embrace of Hoi An. Included: Meal: B, L, Entrance fees, Flight (SGN - DAD) Accommodation: Delicacy Hotel & Spa (Deluxe City View Room) *or similar

Experience the Artistic Soul: Begin with a leisurely walking tour through the 400 years of preserved charm that is Hoi An’s UNESCO Old Town. Visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge and ancient merchant houses like the Quan Thang Ancient House.

Next, we ferry across the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong Village, a hub of master craftsmen specializing in wood carving. Bike through the village to witness their talent firsthand. Continue cycling to Tra Nhieu Village for immersive cultural meetings: watch mat weaving, and see the intricate process of bamboo sampan basket making (the round boats!).

The day culminates in Cam Thanh Village (Coconut Forest). Relax with green tea, enjoy a soothing foot massage with medicinal herbs, and participate in a hands-on cooking practice featuring local dishes (crispy pancakes, spring rolls). Conclude with a serene ride on a small, round bamboo sampan basket boat through the lush, emerald palm forest labyrinth—a moment of pure relaxation. Included: Meal: B, L, Boat, Entrance fees, Bike, Leisure (Foot massage), Cooking class

Experience the Mystique: Today, embark on an excursion to the sacred valley of the My Son Sanctuary, the former political and religious center of the Champa Kingdom (7th–13th century). Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, My Son is a complex of 70 ruined architecture works.

Your expert guide will illuminate the cultural, historical, and architectural values of these architectural ghosts of brick and stone. Witness a captivating traditional Champa dancing show before we return to Hoi An, leaving you with a deep appreciation for this forgotten empire. Included: Meal: B, L, Entrance fees

Experience Panoramic Awe: The journey to Hue begins with the breathtaking coastal conquest over the Hai Van Pass (Sea Cloud Pass). Stop at the summit to capture legendary, panoramic ocean views—a true bucket-list moment. Along the way, visit the Cham Museum in Da Nang, preserving the world’s most important Cham sculpture collections.

Arriving in Hue, we first visit the 17th-century Thien Mu Pagoda, famous for its majestic octagon tower and poetic view of the Perfume River. Then, step into history at the Hue Citadel. Explore the vast complex of Kinh Thanh (Capital), Hoang Thanh (Imperial City), and Cam Thanh (Forbidden City), feeling the imperial solitude of Vietnam’s ancient capital. Included: Meal: B, L, Entrance fees Accommodation: Rosaleen Boutique Hotel (Deluxe Double Room) *or similar

Experience Artistic Secrets: Transfer to the Huong River (Perfume River) to embark on a Royal boat trip to the eastern villages. Disembark at Tien Non Village for a bike ride through the countryside. Meet villagers working in fields before reaching Thanh Tien Village, a 400-year-old artificial paper flower village. Visit artisan Mr. Hieu’s family to learn and practice the delicate craft of paper flower making—an artistic pilgrimage. Continue to Sinh Village, the cradle of 400-year-old folklore prints, where Mr. Phuoc will reveal the secrets of traditional woodblock printing.

In the afternoon, visit Khai Dinh King's Tomb. Marvel at its amazing decoration—a unique fusion of Oriental and Western styles, distinguished by elaborate porcelain and glass fragments. Conclude with a climb to the worship palace for a panoramic reward of the surrounding area before transferring to the airport for your evening flight to Hanoi. Included: Meal: B, Boat, Entrance fees, Bike (Hue), Flight (HUI - HAN) Accommodation: La Nueva Boutique Hotel (Premium Room) *or similar

Experience Hanoi's Soul: Dive into Hanoi's rich cultural and educational core, starting with the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first National University (11th century). Admire the World Heritage "stone steles" and the serene garden. Next, explore the excellent Ethnology Museum (closed Mondays), which offers deep insight into Vietnam's diverse ethnic tapestry.

The afternoon showcases architectural fusion: tour the elegant French Quarter and visit (outside) Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, his humble house on stilts, and the unique One-Pillar Pagoda. Your day culminates with a true street food safari and cultural walk through the Old Quarter's specialized streets (Traditional Medicine, Metalwork, etc.), ending at the vibrant Ta Hien street. Finally, enjoy the magical water puppet shows, a unique 11th-century performance art. Included: Meal: B, Entrance fees, Leisure (Water puppet)

Experience Mountain Serenity: Depart Hanoi for the stunning journey to Mai Chau. Visit a Muong village en route and pause at Thung Khe Pass for magnificent panoramic views of the valley, offering a taste of the coming mountain serenity.

Arrive in Mai Hich Village, a peaceful White Thai ethnic community. After a delicious local lunch cooked by your host, embark on a 5-6 km trekking adventure, walking along trails and passing rice fields to the non-touristic Xam Khoe Village. Here, you are truly immersed in the untamed trails and the harmony of nature and rich human culture. Embrace the opportunity to communicate with the friendly local people who welcome you with open arms. Included: Meal: B, L, D, Transportation

Experience the Panorama: Today is dedicated to capturing a panoramic reward. We drive to Eo Ken, the heart of the Muong ethnics, and begin a 4-5 km descent walk enjoying the spectacular, sweeping views of Pu Luong Nature Reserve's terraced rice fields. Visit a Muong ethnic family in Eo Ken to witness their authentic tribal life before crossing a stream to reach Hang Village.

After a local lunch, we embark on the scenic transfer to Ninh Binh (approximately 4 hours). Enjoy the transition from the winding mountain roads to the peaceful, flat terrains of the Red River Delta. Upon arrival, check in to your serene accommodation. Included: Meal: B, L, D

xperience Active Immersion: Choose your morning adventure: embark on a 10-20 km bike ride along the dyke, granting biking freedom and stunning views of rice fields and limestone mountains. Visit the 11th-century Thung La Temple and experience traditional musical instruments.

Next, take a peaceful sampan boat trip in Van Long Nature Reserve. Glide silently along the stream among the karst majesty, keeping watch for white monkeys and egrets on the cliffs—a hidden sanctuary. Conclude with a visit to an embroidery village for a special embroidery workshop. Learn the secrets of this traditional craft from local artisan Mrs. Lam, a true moment of hands-on artistry. We return to Hanoi in the late afternoon. Included: Meal: B, Boat (Van Long), Entrance fees, Bike (Ninh Binh), Leisure (Thung La temple music) Accommodation: La Nueva Boutique Hotel (Premium Room) *or similar

Experience Ultimate Solitude: The journey’s breathtaking finale begins! Depart Hanoi for the pristine isolation of Bai Tu Long Bay, a secluded neighbor of Halong Bay. Upon arrival, you'll receive a warm welcome aboard the Swan Cruise. Settle into your Deluxe Cabin and enjoy a gourmet Vietnamese lunch as we sail through this celestial cruise landscape.

The afternoon is reserved for adventure: kayaking around Cap La Island, navigating through the stunning karst formations, followed by swimming. As the sun dips, enjoy a Sunset Party and a hands-on cooking demonstration. A sumptuous dinner is served onboard, followed by free time for squid fishing or simply relaxing with a cocktail, soaking in the quiet night under a star-dusted sky. Included: Meal: B, L, D, Shuttle bus, Guide (on board), Kayak, Swimming, Cooking class, Entrance fees

Experience Serenity: Greet the day with a calming sunrise Tai Chi session on the sundeck—a perfect moment of reflection against the stunning bay backdrop. After breakfast, we explore the well-hidden Thien Canh Son Cave, a magnificent geological wonder.

Return to the boat for check-out and enjoy a final traditional Vietnamese lunch as the cruise sails back to the harbor. Our driver awaits your return for a smooth, scenic drive back to your hotel in Hanoi. Enjoy your final evening in the capital, savoring the memories of your incredible journey. Included: Meal: B, L, Guide (on board), Entrance fees, Leisure (Morning Tai Chi) Accommodation: La Nueva Boutique Hotel (Premium Room) *or similar