Classic Vietnam: Sapa to the Mekong - 16 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What kind of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  You will stay in Hotels/Guesthouses for 12 nights, a sleeper train (multishare) for 2 nights, and a junk boat for 1 night.

• Are international flights included in the trip price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.

• Are local flights included in the cost of the trip?

  Yes, all local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. Passport information is required at booking for these tickets.

• What health considerations should I be aware of before traveling?

  Inoculations may be required, so consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. It's recommended to carry a small first aid kit and personal medical requirements. Our leaders cannot administer drugs. In Asia, pharmacies often stock Western drugs, but bring the full drug name with you. Assess your ability to cope with the travel style, referring to Physical and Culture Shock ratings.

• Are there any exceptions for private room bookings (“My Own Room”)?

  The 'My Own Room' option does not apply on Night 4, Night 7 (overnight train), and Night 6 (overnight boat).

• How can I subscribe to the tour operator's email newsletter?

  You can subscribe to our adventure travel e-newsletter for travel news, trip information, stories, and contests at www.gadventures.com/newsletters/. You can also sign up for Planeterra's monthly news to learn about giving back to local communities.

• Whom should I contact in case of an emergency during the tour?

  In situations of dire need, first call the tour operator Local Representative (Ms. Thuan: +84 88 844 9969) or the tour operator Local Office (Bangkok: +66 92 338 9222). If you don't receive an immediate answer, leave a detailed message. Global Sales team numbers are also available for assistance.

• How much emergency money should I bring on this trip?

  Please ensure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, for circumstances outside our control.

• Who will be leading the group on this trip?

  All group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEO) throughout, along with local guides for specific knowledge. The CEO will provide information, suggestions, and recommendations.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travellers, with an average of 12.

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  This trip includes 13 breakfasts, 8 lunches, and 6 dinners. Generally, meals are not included when there is a choice of eating options, to offer maximum flexibility.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?

  The local currency is Vietnamese Dong (VND). The best way to carry money is with debit cards, withdrawing cash from ATMs (Visa and Mastercard widely accepted). Bring some USD cash for emergency situations. Ensure US Dollar notes are new and in good condition (notes older than 2003 or with blemishes may not be accepted). Credit cards can be used at some upmarket restaurants and larger stores.

• Is there an extra cost for traveling solo?

  No, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation without a single supplement. Solo travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex.

• What optional activities are available on this trip?

  Optional activities include Fansipan Peak (Sa Pá), kayaking (Ha Long Bay), Hanoi Foodie Culture Tour, Hue Motorbike Tour, bike rental, tailor shops, Thu Bon River Boat Trip, Hoi An Old Town Walking Tour, Hoi An Cooking Class, Mỹ Sơn Excursion, and various city visits in Ho Chi Minh City such as Ben Thanh Market, Cholon, Thien Hau Pagoda, Dam Sen Water Park, Giac Vien Pagoda, Reunification Palace, and War Remnants Museum.

• What rules should I know before joining this trip?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated and are against local laws. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is strictly against our philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any group member violating these rules without refund.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities earn income from tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses, which are integrated into the tour operator’s itineraries globally. The tour operator covers all of Planeterra's operating costs, so 100% of donations go directly to projects.

• What should LGBTQ+ travelers know about safety and travel considerations on this trip?

  The safety and well-being of all travelers, including the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. We encourage you to visit our LGBTQ+ page for useful resources, including the Equaldex tool, to ensure you feel safe and comfortable.

• What's included in this tour?

  Included are a G for Good Moment: Oodles of Noodles in Hoi An; a Foodie Moment: Sa Pa Cooking Demonstration; a Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group; a Discover Moment: Hoi An; a Local Living Moment: Cai Thia Mekong River Visit, Mekong Delta. Also Sa Pa trekking, Lao Chai Village, Supan Village, Ta Van Village cultural visit, Traditional Wax Technique workshop, Sin Chai Village and Red Dao ethnic village, Bamboo Paper Making, Halong Bay caves entrance, Halong Bay boat cruise with seafood lunch and dinner, Thien Mu Pagoda Visit, Imperial Citadel and Royal Tombs, Oodles of Noodles cooking experience, Cu Chi Tunnels guided tour, Ben Tre Mekong River cycle, Cai Thia rice paper and cooking demonstration, Pottery Brick Village cycle, Cai Rang Floating Market, internal flight, and all transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

• Is travel insurance required for my trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will not be permitted to join without evidence of travel insurance covering medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and repatriation (minimum USD 200,000). We strongly recommend additional coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage. Ensure coverage for all included adventure activities.

• How much spending money do I need for my trip?

  Spending money requirements vary per traveler based on personal habits for drinks, shopping, and tipping. Please consider these factors when planning your budget.

• What are the modes of transportation on this trip?

  Transportation includes train, air-conditioned bus, boat, plane, cycling, and walking. Sleeper trains are basic, with 4-seat compartments converting to bunks, and may involve sharing with non-group members. Simple food is available on trains, but many prefer to bring their own snacks and water.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  The main highlights include a Ta Van Village cultural visit, 2-day Sa Pa trekking, Bamboo Paper Making, sailing on a junk boat through Halong Bay, exploring romantic Hoi An, people-watching in hectic Ho Chi Minh City, experiencing local living in the Mekong River Delta, and visiting floating markets.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for Vietnam?

  All countries require a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity). If you require a visa for Vietnam, it must be arranged ahead of time (before your trip) as processing takes a minimum of 2 weeks and they are not available upon arrival. Vietnamese E-Visas can be applied for online and are supported at 13 airports, 16 land borders, and 13 seaports.

• What should I know about safety and security on my trip?

  Check your government's travel advice before departure. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. Your group leader may amend itineraries for safety reasons. During free time, exercise good judgment; consider staying in small groups and taking taxis at night in major cities. Water-based activities should only be done with a guide.

• What happens if I experience problems when arriving?

  If you encounter problems, contact the emergency numbers provided. If you have a pre-booked transfer and haven't met our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs, take a taxi to your starting hotel and apply for a transfer cost refund upon your return.

• Can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry, so we suggest bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

• Is tipping customary on my trip?

  Yes, tipping service providers (e.g., waiters, local guides, drivers) at approximately 10% is customary in Asia and shows satisfaction with the service. Recommendations for local guides and drivers range from $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day. Tipping your CEO is also appreciated, with a guideline of $20-25 USD per person per week.