Experience Overview
As you slink from old-world Hanoi through ancient Hue, past historic Hoi An and to bustling Ho Chi Minh City, you'll quickly realise that the Vietnamese know a thing or two about delicious food. Pho, banh mi, rice paper rolls – oh my! On this 12-day trip from north to south, you’ll be cruising, riding, relaxing, kayaking, drinking, exploring and enjoying all the Vietnamese hospitality. From sailing on the calm waters of Cat Ba Island to picking your own lunch ingredients from a local chef’s garden, you’ll discover that this place is even richer in culture and city hotspots than you thought.
Highlights
- Chill out in Hoi An where you can get some sweet threads tailor-made before you head out to pick your own ingredients for lunch during a garden-to-table experience with a local chef.
- Sit down for a cup of strong Vietnamese coffee after touring a busy Ho Chi Minh City market and listen to stories from your trip leader about the city’s vibrant culture and history as you tuck into some delicious street eats.
- Balance on a tiny streetside stool in Hanoi's Old Quarter, soaking up the bustling vibes and watching motorbikes zoom past. Then, maybe hit a local bar for a refreshing beer with the locals or explore the nightlife in search of the best cocktail.
- Take in the views of Lan Ha Bay by kayak as you explore the limestone islands during your visit to Cat Ba Island. Who'd have thought green seas and giant mossy rocks could be so pretty?
- Cycle around the ancient temples and expansive fields in Ninh Binh – a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. With loads of free time, you can hike to Mua Cave or take a boat down in Tam Coc to the nearby caves.
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll learn about our Intrepid Foundation partner, Save Vietnam's Wildlife. Donations help them provide support for endangered wildlife and protect critical animal habitats in Vietnam. Intrepid will double your impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2875
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Basic
Transport: Boat,Overnight sleeper train,Private minibus
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: TVYE
Starts: Hanoi, Vietnam
Finishes: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Duration: 12 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Lunch (2), Dinner (1)Accommodation: Hotel (8 nights),Lodge (1 night),Overnight sleeper train (2 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) $718 ($60 /day)
Itinerary
Xin chao! Welcome to Vietnam. Your adventure kicks off in Hanoi – Vietnam’s capital – with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, wander these gorgeous streets and see the sights. Tonight, maybe grab your new group and see who’s up for some food and a fresh bia hoi at a roadside stall or watch the motorbikes zoom by. Hanoi is also a great place for local beer and cocktail bars, so maybe hit the nightlife and discover what this city has to offer after sundown.
Optional Activities:
- Hanoi - Temple of Literature (70000 VND)
- Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh Complex (80000 VND)
- Hanoi - Street Food Experience Urban Adventure (40 USD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is a free day in Hanoi to explore however you’d like. Maybe check out your reflection in beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake, wander along shaded boulevards or relax in a public park with some delicious street food (spring rolls inside rice paper rolls, anyone?). Museum-wise, you could visit the Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh, drop into the serene Temple of Literature or get arty at the city's Fine Arts Museum. Maybe head to KOTO for a delicious lunch – this organisation is dedicated to developing the hospitality careers of disadvantaged youth. Later, maybe explore the centuries-old architecture as the sun goes down.
Optional Activities:
- Hanoi - Temple of Literature (70000 VND)
- Hanoi - Street Food Experience Urban Adventure (40 USD)
- Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh Complex (80000 VND)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel by bus and ferry to Cat Ba Island – the largest island in Lan Ha Bay, connected to the UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay. With thousands of little limestone islands scattered around, this area is one of those quintessential Vietnamese scenes in which bright green water is dotted with traditional junk boats and limestone karsts. Take a cruise around Lan Ha Bay and enjoy a seafood lunch prepared by your onboard chef. What could be better? This afternoon, hop off the boat to get up close and personal with this other-worldly landscape by kayak. Paddle through serene waters and then watch the sunset over this awe-inspiring landscape.
Included Activities:
- Cat Ba Island - Boat trip on Lan Ha Bay
- Cat Ba Island - Kayaking
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, take a ferry back to the mainland and head to Ninh Binh province – once the site of Vietnam’s capital in the 10th and 11th centuries, which is now a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. Join a local guide on a cycling tour to visit the ancient citadel. This once covered 300 hectares of land, however the passage of time has left few remains of the once glorious capital. You’ll visit the 17th-century temples built in honour of King Dinh and King Le among other temples, pagodas, monuments and lush grounds surrounded by mountains.
Included Activities:
- Hoa Lu - Temple of King Dinh and King Le
- Ninh Binh - Bike Tour
Accommodation:
- Lodge (Number of Nights: 1)
The day is yours to explore the many other wonders of Ninh Binh. You might like to lace up your hiking boots and trek to the incredible Mua Cave. While the cave sits at the base of a mountain, be sure to make the trek up the 500 steps to the mountain peak for amazing views of Hoa Lu and Ngo Dong River. Or maybe get out on the water and take a boat tour past limestone karst peaks, caves, temples and maybe even the locations of scenes from a King Kong movie. Tonight, board an overnight train to Hue.
Optional Activities:
- Ninh Binh - Mua Cave Hike (entrance fee and taxi) (12 USD)
- Ninh Binh - Trang An Boat Trip (entrance fee, boat, taxi) (21 USD)
Accommodation:
- Overnight Train (Number of Nights: 1)
Arrive by train in Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. You have today free to do as you please. You can easily spend a couple of hours exploring Hue’s massive walled citadel and the Forbidden Purple Palace that's enclosed within. Maybe jump on board a dragon boat and enjoy a cruise up the Perfume River to visit the Thien Mu Pagoda. You could also check out Dong Ba Market, which offers locally made goods, fresh produce and some tasty street food. This is a good place to try the dish that Emperor Nguyen used to feast on – the banh Khoai royal rice. If you like being on two wheels, maybe cycle out to one of the royal tombs like the tomb of Emperor Tu Duc (one of the most excellent remaining examples of its kind). Tonight, head into the home of a local family and enjoy a freshly prepared dinner. You’ll be chatting and laughing over your chopsticks in no time!
Included Activities:
- Hue - Home cooked dinner
Optional Activities:
- Hue - Highlights & back streets by motorbike (without lunch) (23 USD)
- Hue - Highlights & back streets by motorbike (with lunch) (28 USD)
- Hue - Perfume River cruise & Thien Mu Pagoda (220000 VND)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Continue along the coast to Hoi An by private bus. When you arrive, your leader will take you on a walking tour of this unique town which has been influenced over the years by Europe, China, Vietnam and Japan. The town was a major trading port from the 17th century onwards, and its old-school flavour is written all over its architecture. For a small town, it's pretty lively. The tour will take you down the streets that are being restored and look a lot like they did 100 years ago, then you’ll discover some of the more chilled out spots. Check out a historic house (formerly home to a prominent trader), the Japanese Covered Bridge, a Chinese assembly hall and a museum. Later, maybe play bingo with your leader in a town square – a popular local past time.
Included Activities:
- Hoi An - Old Town walking tour
Optional Activities:
- Hoi An - Food Adventure Urban Adventure (44 USD)
- Hoi An - Cooking class (33 USD)
- Hoi An - Private Hoi An: My Son Discovery (from) (77 USD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Start the day by cycling through the beautiful surroundings of Hoi An to the organic vegetable and herb gardens of a local chef. See, smell and taste what makes Vietnamese food so delicious. After a tour of the gardens, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch using some of the ingredients you picked during your tour. Much of the food waste here is composted, recycled or reused. The rest of the afternoon is free for your own explorations. Maybe wander to the Central Market and browse the paintings, woodwork, ceramics and lanterns. Hoi An is also famous for its talented tailors, so if you’ve been wearing the same shirt every day (who hasn’t), why not hit one of the same-day tailors and get yourself something new? Tonight, maybe wander the streets, lit up by lanterns for some great photo ops.
Included Activities:
- Hoi An - Garden-to-Table with A Local Chef
Optional Activities:
- Hoi An - Cooking class (33 USD)
- Hoi An - Food Adventure Urban Adventure (44 USD)
- Hoi An - Private Hoi An: My Son Discovery (from) (77 USD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, say goodbye to Hoi An and drive to Quy Nhon – a coastal city in the Bình Dinh province. When you arrive, you have a free afternoon and evening to explore at your own pace. There’s plenty of optional activities you can take on today to explore the beautiful location – maybe visit Banh It Tower, taking in stunning scenery from the top of the hill or visit the Cahn Tien Tower (Bronze Tower). Take a food tour, trying some local specialities like banh xeo tom nhay (a crunchy pancake with fresh prawn), nem nuong (grilled pork rolls) or bun ca (fish noodles). You might like to head to the Con Chim Ecological Zone, where you can go fishing or stand up paddleboarding. Maybe take a trip to Eo Gio for a hike and some gorgeous coastal views. There’s also lots of great local restaurants you can hang out at – just ask your leader!
Optional Activities:
- Quy Nhon - Eo Gio Hike (22000 VND)
- Quy Nhon - Canh Tien Tower (15000 VND)
- Quy Nhon - Banh It Tower (15000 VND)
- Quy Nhon - Con Chim Ecological Zone (31 USD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is a free day in Quy Nhon to take on any optional activities you didn’t get a chance to do yesterday. You can head to Ky Co Beach or take a day trip to Hon Kho Island for a swim in the blue-green waters. Tonight, you’ll take an overnight train, so maybe grab some snacks this afternoon for the journey. As you make your way to Ho Chi Minh City, maybe play a few (or many) rounds of cards or get stuck into a good book. As the light changes outside, you can watch the everchanging scenery pass you by, showing you a glimpse into what rural life is like in Vietnam.
Optional Activities:
- Quy Nhon - Eo Gio Hike (22000 VND)
- Quy Nhon - Con Chim Ecological Zone (31 USD)
- Quy Nhon - Banh It Tower (15000 VND)
- Quy Nhon - Canh Tien Tower (15000 VND)
Accommodation:
- Overnight Train (Number of Nights: 1)
Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City early this morning and transfer to your hotel. Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is a whirl of sights and sounds. You can still see the French influence in the top-notch baguettes and coffee. Compared to the north, the food here is spicier, sweeter and more varied. Maybe take advantage of the early morning by checking out the markets and tucking into a bowl of pho with the local traders. With your group, you’ll visit a local market, where you can browse the exotic street foods and maybe take the chance to try some. Then try the iconic Saigon cafe sua da (iced coffee with condensed milk) amid the market’s everyday bustle as your leader shares stories about life in Ho Chi Minh City. Tonight, why not get your group together for a meal and some drinks on Pham Ngu Lao Street?
Included Activities:
- Ho Chi Minh City – Local Market Visit
- Ho Chi Minh City - Local Coffee Experience
Optional Activities:
- Ho Chi Minh City - War Remnants Museum (40000 VND)
- Ho Chi Minh City - Reunification Palace (40000 VND)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
With no planned activities today, your trip comes to an end. There’s lots to see and do in Vietnam – The Cu Chi Tunnels are an interesting day trip, plus the city is a great springboard to head down to the Mekong Delta or to Phu Quoc Island. Ask your group leader for more recommendations or, better yet, book an Urban Adventures tour! Find out more at urbanadventures.com. If you’d like to spend more time here and need further accommodation, just speak to your booking agent.
Optional Activities:
- Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnel Experience Urban Adventure (45 USD)
- Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Discovery Urban Adventure (73 USD)
- Ho Chi Minh City - Saigon Street Food by Night Urban Adventure (36 USD)
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Shaantam - Traveled, April 2024
Intrepid is a tour group like no other, one that really immerses you in the culture and not just the touristy spots.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/16/2024
Evie - Traveled, April 2024
This trip was well worth it. Linh was amazing and the places you go are absolutely breathtaking
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/16/2024
BALA LAKSHMANAN - Traveled, March 2024
It's been a wonderful experience with Intrepid - Vietnam. It's a country of magic and words can't describe what the experience has been. Simply amazing.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/17/2024
Alexandria - Traveled, March 2024
Great tour guide and filled everything you need to see Vietnam. So we’ll organized and accommodations we’re way better than expected.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/13/2024
Jasper - Traveled, March 2024
The Essential Vietnam trip is an absolute must for anyone considering travelling with under 30s from around the world and experience a trip of a lifetime. Highly recommended (especially if you're a foodie).
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/13/2024
Grace - Traveled, March 2024
Intrepid seem like a really good, reliable, trustworthy tour holiday company and I will very happily travel with them again. Well worth the money.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/25/2024
Apolline - Traveled, February 2024
To be booked without hesitation! Amazing guide, amazing country and incredible price/quality point (specially impressed by the accommodations for the budget) Can only recommend!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/21/2024
Tristan - Traveled, February 2024
Loved this tour, had a blast! Our tour leader was amazing, made the trip a blast with non stop laughs and fun times. Experienced so many aspects of Vietnam, will highly recommend!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/13/2024
Melike - Traveled, February 2024
Our tour guide Phuong was so funny and kind. She made us feel very welcome and made the trip unforgettable for us. If you get the chance to visit Vietnam, you’ll have no better guide than Phuong.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/15/2024
Harrison - Traveled, January 2024
Well organised trip with a knowledgeable host. Perfect to get a taste of each city if you have little time but would like to return in future.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/23/2024
Rachel - Traveled, January 2024
Definitely do this trip if you are considering it! Honestly one of the best things I’ve ever done. A great mix of fun and cultural activities and our guide Thanh was phenomenal! Such a special experience and I’ve made some great friends who I’ll stay in touch with beyond this trip. Thank you!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/02/2024
Robert - Traveled, January 2024
An excellent trip for those seeking to explore Vietnam with a superb guide and a group of like-minded people. A pretty efficient itinerary at times, but the ease of travel more than makes up for it!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/27/2024
Sona - Traveled, January 2024
This tour was excellent from start to finish! I especially loved Cat Ba and Hue. Thanh Vu was amazing, he communicated everything clearly and gave the best recommendations. He made sure to account for everyone, I was the only vegetarian on the trip and I had some of the best food during this trip! He is very passionate and makes sure you have a good time while learning about the places you visit. Lastly I made great friends on this trip too!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/31/2024
Sophie - Traveled, January 2024
Just book it. You will not regret it. It is the trip of a lifetime. I was very apprehensive about going on this trip but my god, if I’d had missed out on this experience I would never have forgiven myself. Just do it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/19/2024
Noelle - Traveled, December 2023
Highly recommend this tour. it is such a memorable experience and an eye opener. Our guide and group were fantastic. These are the great memories that follow you for life and make you want to come back.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/11/2024
Sarah - Traveled, December 2024
An incredible trip! A great way to see highlights of Vietnam, from North to South, with a bunch of people that quickly start to feel like family. Trang was the most amazing tour leader too, keeping us on track and always bringing the fun! The meals with locals are a real highlight, along with swimming, kayaking, bike rides + more. Highly recommend!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/19/2024
Eden - Traveled, December 2023
Loved this trip, Trang our tour leader was amazing. Learnt allot and had heaps of fun.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/11/2024
Luca - Traveled, December 2023
What truly transformed this trip from a simple vacation into an unforgettable experience was my leader, Doan. Her exceptional guidance, humor, deep knowledge of the region, and her warm, welcoming nature made every moment special. Doan's vibrant personality and genuine care for our group fostered a sense of camaraderie and joy that enriched our travel experience. It felt less like a guided tour and more like a journey with a friend who was just as excited to explore and discover as we were.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/21/2024
Emerald - Traveled, December 2023
The trip was super fun and we had a bunch of friendly people on our group . Huy was an amazing tour guide. He was very fun, friendly and knowledgeable. Would recommend the trip for everyone
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/26/2023
Gabriel - Traveled, December 2023
A great trip touring the must see bits of Vietnam, waste but with enough time to enjoy each place. Lots of fun!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/27/2023
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