Classic Vietnam: Hanoi to the Mekong - 12 Days



Who is this trip for
Genders
- Female59%
- Male41%
Average age
Start / End
- Hanoi
- Ho Chi Minh City
Physical rating
Group size
1 - 16Meals included
17Highlights
- Begin your Vietnamese adventure by embarking on a serene sail through the mystical Halong Bay. Glide gracefully on a traditional junk boat amidst thousands of dramatic limestone karsts, discovering hidden caves and enjoying a sumptuous seafood dinner under a blanket of stars.
- Step back in time in Hue, Vietnam's imperial capital, to explore ancient pagodas like Tien Mu and the grand tombs of former emperors. Then, journey across the breathtaking Hai Van Pass to the enchanting town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its tailor shops and artisan crafts.
- Immerse yourself in Hoi An's vibrant culture, with dedicated time to explore its charming streets, relax on its beautiful beaches, or indulge in tailor-made clothing. Engage in a unique noodle-making demonstration and enjoy lunch at Oodles of Noodles, a G Adventures-supported social enterprise.
- Experience the pulsating energy of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, as you navigate its bustling streets and vibrant markets. Discover significant historical sites such as the Reunification Palace and the poignant War Remnants Museum, offering deep insights into Vietnam's past.
- Delve into the lush waterways of the Mekong Delta with an unforgettable two-night stay at a welcoming community guesthouse. Learn directly from your local hosts, explore the tranquil delta by traditional sampan boat and bicycle, and partake in preparing authentic Vietnamese dishes like spring rolls.
- Conclude your Mekong Delta immersion by waking early to witness the iconic Cai Rang Floating Market, a vibrant spectacle where local vendors trade goods directly from their boats, offering a truly authentic glimpse into riverine life before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.
- Embark on a serene journey aboard a traditional junk boat, gracefully sailing through the emerald waters of Halong Bay. Witness thousands of dramatic limestone karsts rising majestically from the sea, explore intricate cave systems, and savour a delectable seafood dinner under a canopy of stars.
- Step back in time as you discover the imperial grandeur of Hue, Vietnam's former capital. Explore sacred sites like the Tien Mu Pagoda, visit an opulent emperor's tomb, and delight your palate with the city's unique culinary specialties, from savoury pancakes to delicate rice paper dishes.
- Immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Hoi An, a town celebrated for its vibrant lanterns, bespoke tailor shops, and rich cultural tapestry. Engage in a heartwarming noodle-making demonstration and enjoy lunch at Oodles of Noodles, a local social enterprise, fostering a true connection with the community.
- Experience the vibrant, bustling energy of Ho Chi Minh City, once known as Saigon. Delve into its lively markets, explore ornate pagodas, and uncover significant historical landmarks such as the Reunification Palace and the evocative War Remnants Museum.
- Discover the authentic heart of the Mekong Delta with an unforgettable two-night community guesthouse stay. Cruise through lush waterways on a traditional sampan, cycle along tranquil paths, enjoy cooking with your local hosts, and witness a captivating lantern-lit evening performance by villagers.
- Conclude your journey with the captivating spectacle of the Cai Rang Floating Market at sunrise. Witness the vibrant daily life of the delta as countless boats, laden with an array of goods, gather to trade, offering a truly unique and memorable Vietnamese experience.
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Summary
Discover the magic of Vietnam on this 12-day adventure packed with culture, cuisine, and connection. Begin with a serene sail on a traditional junk boat through Halong Bay’s limestone karsts, then head south to explore the vibrant streets of Hue and the charm of Hoi An. Roll up your sleeves and craft your own noodles alongside expert hosts at a local social enterprise. Continue to the bustling energy of Saigon and delve into the lush waterways of the Mekong Delta, where you’ll spend two unforgettable nights at a community guesthouse, learning from your welcoming local hosts and exploring the delta by boat and on foot. With plenty of adventure and just the right amount of downtime, this trip will leave you inspired and recharged.
Itinerary
Day 1
Hanoi
There are no planned activities today until an evening welcome meeting. After the meeting, opt for dinner out with the group.
Day 2
Hanoi/Ha Long
Drive to Bai Chay harbour, the jumping off point for Ha Long Bay. Thousands of islands with intricate cave systems rise dramatically from the waters. Sail past limestone karst mountains in the junk boat and stop to visit some of the islands and caves.
In the evening, devour a seafood dinner, then opt to enjoy a drink on deck under the stars.
Day 3
Ha Long/Hu?
Interested in local cuisine? Opt to pre-book the "Hanoi Foodie Culture Tour" activity on the checkout page to include this optional on your tour.
Day 4
Hu?
Arrive early to Hue, once the imperial capital of Vietnam. Start the day with a visit to the Tien Mu Pagoda followed by a visit to the tomb of one of Vietnam’s former emperors. After, opt for a vegetarian lunch at a local nunnery.
While in the city, try some local Hue specialties such as banh khoai (Hue savoury pancakes), and banh bot loc boc tom thit (thin rice paper filled with meat and shrimp). Wash it all down with a Hue beer.
Opt to pre-book the "Hue Motorbike Tour" activity on the checkout page ahead of time, to include this optional on your tour.
Day 5
Hu?/Hoi An
Cross the Hai Van Pass (weather permitting), with fantastic views in all directions, before arriving to Hoi An in the afternoon.
With three nights here, there's plenty of time to explore all this charming town has to offer.
Day 6
Hoi An
Explore all Hoi An has to offer. Dive into the culture, hang out on the beach or get clothes tailor-made in one of the many shops around town. Enjoy a noodle making demonstration and lunch at Oodles of Noodles, a the tour operator-supported project.
Day 7
Hoi An
Spend a free day exploring all Hoi An has to offer.
Day 8
Hoi An/Ho Chi Minh City
Drive to Da Nang for the flight to Ho Chi Minh City, once the capital of South Vietnam and the country’s commercial centre. Start exploring the small alleys and busy streets, keeping an eye out for laquerware shops and delicious local food stalls.
Day 9
Ho Chi Minh City
With some free time in the city, opt to visit the Thien Hau and Giac Vien pagodas and stroll through the immense Ben Thanh Market. Also well worth a visit are the Reunification Palace (the residence of South Vietnam presidents before 1975), the city's Chinese quarter of Cholon, and the War Remnants Museum.
Day 10
Ho Chi Minh City/Mekong River
Travel to the beautiful Mekong River Delta, south of Ho Chi Minh City, and experience the local way of living. Visit two of the main regions of the Delta, Ben Tre and Cai Thia. Cruise through the river in a traditional sampan boat, bike along the waterways and spend time with the family at your local guesthouse preparing a dinner of spring rolls and Banh Xeo before a lantern lit evening performance by the local villagers.
Day 11
Mekong River
Depart your homestay after breakfast and visit the community riverside market. From there, board a boat to arrive to the Pottery Brick Village, known as the Red Kingdom, and explore by bicycle. Then drive to the last region we'll visit on the Mekong Delta called Can Tho. Enjoy a free afternoon at leisure to explore the area. Opt to do some bird watching or visit the local town.
Day 12
Mekong River/Ho Chi Minh City
Wake up to watch the sun rise over one of the most unique parts of life on the Mekong River, Cai Rang Floating Market. Explore by land and boat before driving back to Ho Chi Minh City. Your tour finishes upon arrival to the city.
What's Included
Accommodation
Hotels (7 nts), sleeper train (1 nt), local guesthouse (2 nts).
Meals
Breakfasts: 9, Lunches: 5, Dinners: 3
Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.
Vegetarian options availableLocal Guide
GuidedThis adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.
Wifi
Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.
Dates & Prices
Sep 25
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Essential trip information
Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.
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