Day 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City & Cu Chi Tunnels Adventure

Your journey begins in vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, a metropolis that hums with energy. After settling in, set off in the afternoon for the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels—an underground labyrinth carved during wartime.

Travel through lush rice paddies and peaceful villages before arriving at this historic site. Watch a short documentary that transports you to the era of resilience and ingenuity, then descend into the tunnels themselves. Crawl through hidden passageways, visit makeshift hospitals and kitchens, and marvel at the traps devised by guerrilla fighters. Imagine this tranquil land as it once was—a “Free Target Zone” scarred by bombings. For those seeking a thrill, try your hand at the firing range.

Return to the city by evening, your heart already filled with Vietnam’s stories of courage.

Day 2: A Day in the Mekong Delta & Evening Strolls in Saigon

Awaken early for a journey south into the Mekong Delta, Vietnam’s “rice bowl.” Drive past fields of green and golden crops before arriving in My Tho, where your motorboat awaits.

Sail across rivers dotted with islands named after mythical creatures—Dragon, Phoenix, Turtle, and Unicorn. Visit a beekeeping farm, sip on honey tea, taste rice wine, and row gently through coconut-lined canals where daily life unfolds at an unhurried pace. In Ben Tre, witness the craft of making coconut candy and savor a feast of local delicacies beneath a canopy of fruit trees while listening to soulful folk music.

Return to Saigon by evening. As dusk falls, wander through Ben Thanh Market, buzzing with life, and if it’s the weekend, lose yourself in the neon-lit carnival of Bui Vien Walking Street.

Day 3: Mui Ne Desert Landscapes & Sunset Magic

Trade the city for the coast as you journey to Mui Ne, a seaside escape known for its surreal landscapes. After a restful bus ride, begin your exploration at the whimsical Fairy Stream, where red and white sand cliffs create a dreamlike canyon. Continue to the lively fishing village, a window into the lives of Vietnam’s coastal communities.

Next, conquer the White Sand Dunes, where adventure seekers can ride ATVs or jeeps across the sweeping desert. As the day softens, arrive at the Red Sand Dunes, where the golden sunset melts into the horizon, painting the sky in brilliant hues.

Savor dinner before returning to Ho Chi Minh City, carrying the glow of a desert sunset in your memory.

Day 4: Ho Chi Minh City ✈ Phu Quoc – Venice of the Tropics

This morning, fly to Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam’s island jewel. In the afternoon, step into Grand World Phu Quoc, an entertainment paradise where Venice comes alive with canal boat rides, music, and vibrant performances. Wander through bamboo houses, urban parks, and lively squares, or indulge in shopping and island-inspired dining. Here, joy lingers in every corner, and the spirit of celebration is endless.

Day 5: Island Hopping & A Sky-High Cable Car Ride

Embark on a boat adventure across Phu Quoc’s turquoise waters. Snorkel among vibrant coral reefs at Xuong Island, laze on the powdery sands of May Rut Trong, and unwind with tropical cocktails by the beach. Relish a fresh seafood lunch onboard before heading to Thom Island, home to the exhilarating Aquatopia Water Park.

As the day wanes, soar across the sea on the world’s longest overwater cable car, where sunset unveils the islands below in golden splendor.

Day 6: VinWonders & Safari Adventure

Dive into a day of thrills at VinWonders, where heart-racing rides, magical shows, and underwater worlds ignite the imagination. Then step into Vietnam’s largest wildlife conservation park—Vinpearl Safari—where open-air habitats bring you face-to-face with majestic creatures. As the sun sets, stay for enchanting performances and perhaps a night safari under the stars.

Day 7: Phu Quoc → Da Nang

Wake to one last sunrise over Phu Quoc’s golden sands before flying north to the vibrant coastal city of Da Nang. From palm-fringed beaches to sweeping mountain views, the landscapes transform beneath your wings. On arrival, stroll along the Han River or watch the sun set over My Khe Beach — the gateway to Central Vietnam has opened before you.

Day 8: Marble Mountains & Lanterns of Hoi An

Your journey takes you from the highlands to the coast of Central Vietnam. Explore the Marble Mountains, five mystical limestone hills named after the elements. Climb stairways carved into the rock, discover ancient Buddhist sanctuaries, and gaze at sweeping views of Da Nang’s coastline.

By evening, you arrive in Hoi An, the ancient town bathed in golden lantern light. Wander narrow lanes lined with yellow-walled merchant houses, sip tea by the river, and let the soft glow of lanterns reflect on the water. Every corner whispers of history and romance.

Day 9: Ba Na Hills & the Golden Bridge

Today is dedicated to wonder. Ascend into the clouds aboard a cable car to Ba Na Hills, a mountaintop amusement complex where French gardens meet Vietnamese legend. Stroll across the iconic Golden Bridge, its walkway cradled by giant stone hands that rise dramatically from the mountain. Explore flower gardens, pagodas, and whimsical villages perched above the clouds. In the evening, return to Hoi An or Da Nang, your heart full of dreamlike vistas.

Day 10: Journey to Dong Hoi

A day of travel awaits as you take the train north to Dong Hoi, gateway to Vietnam’s underground wonders. Watch the landscapes shift outside your window—from bustling towns to rice paddies, rivers, and limestone karsts. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and rest for tomorrow’s grand adventure.

Day 11: Caves of Legends – Paradise & Phong Nha

Rise early for a journey into Vietnam’s mystical underworld. First, conquer the steps into Paradise Cave, a cathedral of stone with soaring ceilings and shimmering stalactites illuminated like chandeliers. Marvel at nature’s artistry as your guide weaves tales of geology and legend.

After lunch in a village restaurant, float along the Son River by dragon boat into the yawning mouth of Phong Nha Cave. Inside, limestone formations glisten like jewels—curtains, towers, and underground lakes that evoke a fairy tale world. As evening falls, return to Dong Hoi, still spellbound by the earth’s hidden wonders.

Day 12: Northbound to Hanoi

Today, take the early train to Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital of contrasts. Arrive and settle into your hotel in the Old Quarter, where narrow streets buzz with scooters, street food aromas, and hidden temples. Rest and prepare for the cultural riches ahead.

Day 13: Temples & Landscapes of Ninh Binh

Set off on a full-day excursion to Ninh Binh, often called “Ha Long Bay on land.” Begin at Bai Dinh Pagoda, Vietnam’s largest Buddhist complex, where bronze Buddhas and serene courtyards invite reflection.

After a hearty buffet lunch, board a sampan boat at Trang An, gliding through emerald rivers beneath limestone peaks, past caves and grottoes draped in greenery. Later, hike to the top of Mua Cave Peak for one of the most breathtaking views in Vietnam—a panorama of rice fields, rivers, and limestone mountains. Return to Hanoi in the evening, your soul nourished by nature and spirituality.

Day 14: Into the Far North – Ha Giang

This morning, you journey by bus into Vietnam’s remote northern frontier—Ha Giang, a province of jagged mountains and winding passes. Upon arrival, settle into your stay and prepare for the legendary loop that awaits.

Day 15: The Road of Happiness – Quan Ba to Du Gia

Your Ha Giang adventure begins along the “Road of Happiness,” climbing to Heaven’s Gate and gazing at the Fairy Hills below. Drive through the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, a UNESCO site of ancient stone landscapes. Pause for lunch in a mountain town before continuing into the heart of the highlands. By evening, arrive in Du Gia, a small village where you’ll stay in a family homestay. Share dinner with your hosts and experience the warmth of ethnic traditions.

Day 16: Ma Pi Leng Pass & Lung Cu Flag Tower

Wave goodbye to your hosts and set off through breathtaking mountain passes. Ride along the dramatic Ma Pi Leng Pass, where cliffs drop into the jade-green Nho Que River far below. Continue to Dong Van, the northernmost town in Vietnam, and, weather permitting, journey further to Lung Cu Flag Tower, the symbolic northern tip of the country. Return to Dong Van for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 17: Palaces, Valleys & Return to Ha Giang City

Journey south through landscapes carved by history and legend. Stop at the palace of the H’mong King in Sa Phin, a 100-year-old residence filled with stories of power and heritage. Continue through pine forests and rice terraces, crossing valleys and rivers until you descend back to Ha Giang City. Relax and prepare for your onward bus journey.

Day 18: Ha Giang to Sapa

Today you journey west to Sapa, another jewel of the northern mountains. Upon arrival, breathe in the cool alpine air, settle into your hotel, and enjoy a peaceful evening surrounded by misty peaks.

Day 19: Trekking Villages & Mountain Vistas

Embark on a guided trek through Ham Rong Mountain and the valleys below. Walk past orchards of peaches and plums, then climb to 1,850 meters for panoramic views of Sapa town, Muong Hoa Valley, and Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina. Wander through Hmong villages, meet locals, and share lunch in a traditional home. This day is both a physical and cultural journey into Sapa’s heart.

Day 20: Alpine Coaster & Valley Views

Today, thrill meets tranquility. Travel to Bản Mòng village, ride the exhilarating Alpine Coaster down winding tracks with panoramic views, then relax at Best View Sapa café, sipping tea or coffee while gazing over endless mountains. In the evening, explore Sapa Market, where ethnic groups sell colorful textiles and handmade crafts.

Day 21: Fansipan – The Roof of Indochina

Morning brings a highlight—ascend Fansipan Peak by cable car or trekking. At 3,143 meters, this is the “Roof of Indochina,” where clouds swirl at your feet and golden Buddhas crown the summit. In the evening, board the overnight train back to Hanoi, lulled to sleep by the rhythm of the rails.

Day 22: Into the Northeast – Hanoi to Angel Mountain

This morning, leave the bustling heart of Hanoi behind and set off on a scenic drive north toward Vietnam’s mystical frontier. The journey itself is a feast for the eyes—endless rice paddies shimmering under the sun, limestone peaks rising dramatically on the horizon, and winding country roads that carve their way into untouched landscapes.

Pause at a countryside homestay for a leisurely lunch beneath bamboo eaves, where you’ll savor home-cooked dishes bursting with fresh flavors. Continue onward to a quiet village tucked beneath the embrace of Angel Mountain, where giant karst peaks guard hidden valleys. Here, time seems to slow. You’ll stroll through rustic hamlets, capture photographs of the “Cyclops Mountain” rising like a giant’s eye over the valley, and marvel at views that feel like stepping into an ancient painting.

By evening, you’ll arrive in the Cao Bang Geopark region, a UNESCO Global Geopark where rivers, caves, and mountains tell stories of millions of years. Settle into your welcoming homestay, enjoy a feast of locally sourced dishes, and share warm conversations with your hosts. Tonight, as the mountain air grows cool, fall asleep to the chorus of crickets, far from the city’s restless hum.

Day 23: Tiger Cave, Temples & the Majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall

Wake to the aroma of freshly steamed rice and village life unfolding quietly around you. After breakfast, your day begins with an enchanting visit to the Tiger Cave, a labyrinth of stone chambers and ancient formations. Search for the cave’s symbolic figures—shapes of tigers, dragons, and lotus flowers etched in limestone by centuries of water and wind. The cool air and shimmering stalactites create a sense of walking through a sacred, forgotten world.

Next, ascend to a hilltop pagoda, its wooden beams scented with incense. From here, gaze across misty valleys and see, in the distance, the thunderous mist of your next destination—Ban Gioc Waterfall.

Arriving at the falls is like stepping into a dream. The Quay Son River tumbles dramatically over three tiers, spreading wide into a curtain of rushing white. This is Asia’s fourth-largest natural waterfall on a border, straddling Vietnam and China, yet it feels untouched and serene. For a truly magical experience, board a bamboo raft and float to the base of the falls, where water sprays your face and rainbows shimmer in the mist.

After soaking in this spectacle, enjoy a hearty local lunch before beginning your scenic return journey toward Hanoi. Tonight, as you drive back through winding valleys, the roar of Ban Gioc will echo in your memory—a sound of wild beauty that will linger forever.

Day 24: Ha Long Bay – Setting Sail into a Seascape of Legends

Today, exchange mountains for the sea as you journey eastward to the world-famous Ha Long Bay. Arrive at Tuan Chau Wharf around midday, where your luxury cruise awaits. Step aboard with a welcome drink in hand and cool towel at the ready, as the crew greets you with warm smiles and a short introduction.

Lunch is served in the elegant dining room while your ship glides into the emerald embrace of Lan Ha Bay—a quieter, more pristine neighbor to Ha Long Bay. Around you, limestone karsts rise like sentinels from jade waters, their cliffs cloaked in jungle. Each island has its own legend, its own name, and its own story whispered by the sea breeze.

In the afternoon, choose your adventure: kayak through the tranquil Dark and Bright Cave, paddling into hidden lagoons where the water glimmers with reflections of towering cliffs, or explore the magical lagoons of Ba Trai Dao, a paradise of beaches and secret coves. Swim in turquoise waters, let the waves cradle you, and feel the world’s worries slip away.

Return to the ship in time for a sunset party on deck. Sip cocktails as the sky turns molten gold, take part in a fun Vietnamese cooking class, or simply soak in the pool as the horizon blushes pink. After a sumptuous dinner, the night is yours—try your hand at squid fishing, watch a movie under the stars, or unwind with a glass of wine as the boat gently sways at anchor. Tonight, you sleep cradled by the waters of Lan Ha Bay, beneath a canopy of stars.

Day 25: Dawn on the Bay & Farewell to the Sea

Awake early to the soft lapping of waves and a sunrise that paints the bay in hues of rose and silver. Begin your morning with a Tai Chi session on deck, breathing deeply as the sun peeks over the limestone peaks. Afterward, enjoy a light breakfast before setting out on your final exploration.

Option one takes you kayaking through the quiet waters of Ao Ech Lagoon, where the mirrored surface reflects dramatic cliffs and overhanging trees. Option two guides you to Quan Y Cave on Cat Ba Island, a natural chamber filled with history and cool, echoing beauty.

Back on board, savor a farewell brunch as the ship slowly makes its way back through the karst-studded seascape. Each passing island feels like a final wave goodbye from the bay.

Disembark at Tuan Chau Wharf around midday and return to Hanoi. By late afternoon, you’ll be back in the capital, carrying with you the memory of jade-green waters, glowing sunsets, and the timeless magic of Ha Long Bay.

Day 26: Traditional Villages & Hanoi’s Train Street

Step back into Vietnam’s traditions with a visit to three artisan villages. Watch incense sticks being rolled and dyed vibrant colors, craft your own conical hat, and learn the secrets of lacquer art from master artisans. Share a home-cooked lunch before returning to Hanoi. End the day at Train Street, where locomotives rumble past just meters from cozy cafés.

Day 27: Hanoi at Leisure

A free day to savor Hanoi at your own pace. Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, shop for silks in the Old Quarter, discover hidden temples, or sip the city’s iconic egg coffee. This is your time to linger, reflect, and fall in love with Hanoi’s rhythm.

Day 28: Departure from Hanoi

Your grand journey comes to an end. With a heart full of memories—mountains climbed, rivers sailed, lanterns lit, and friendships made—you depart Vietnam, carrying its spirit with you wherever you go.

Hotel Details: 3/4/5- Star with a View Room or similar

Ho Chi Minh: Bay Hotel or similar
Phu Quoc: SOL by Meliá or similar
Da Nang: Le Sands Oceanfront or similar
Dong Hoi: Melia Vinpearl Quang Binh or similar
Hanoi: Lavender Central or similar
Ha Giang: Phoenix Hotel or similar
Da Giu: Homestay
Dong Van: Homestay
Sa Pa: Sapa Jade Hill Resort & Spa or similar
Cao Bang: Homestay
La Han Bay & Ha Long Bay cruise with balcony or similar

Tourist: Evisa

Passport Photo Copy with front and back
Photo with white background, 35mm*45mm, 80% face coverage, and taken in the last 3 months
Pancard

Processing Time:

Visa type: Single entry
Processing time: 5-7 working days
Stay duration: 30 days per entry
Visa validity: Depends on the embassy

NOTE: Visa fees are subject to change. The package cost is based on a minimum of 2 adults travelling together. Rates vary at the time of booking; the given rate is an estimate.

Vietnam Explorer