The Vietnam Experience - 15 Days



Trip Snapshot
Genders
- Female67%
- Male33%
Average age
Start / End
- Ho Chi Minh City
- Hanoi
Physical rating
Group size
5 - 22Meals included
22Highlights
- Discover Bai Tu Long Bay, the hidden gem of Halong Bay
- Go trekking and explore tribal villages in Sapa
- Watch as trains skim past homes and shops on Train Street
- Enjoy the delicious delights of Vietnamese cuisine at local spots on our food tour of Hanoi
- Arrive into Hoi An by kayak
- Stay with a local family in the remote Pu Luong National Park

Everything you need to picture the adventure and pack with confidence — in one free PDF.
What's inside the PDF
Day-by-day itinerary
Every day mapped out, covering activities, travel times, meals and where you'll stay.Packing & kit list
Exactly what to bring, from clothing and essentials to luggage guidelines and what's available to hire locally.What's included
Accommodation, transport, guides and meals, so you can see exactly what your price covers.
Summary
Looking for a trip that’s all about culture, adventure, and making real memories? Our 15-day Vietnam tour is the one. You’ll kick things off with 12 days alongside an awesome crew, exploring everything from the colourful markets of Hanoi to the dreamy bays of Bai Tu Long. Then, the journey continues as you venture north to Sapa where you’ll experience terraced hills, hill tribe communities who’ve held onto their traditions for centuries, and a slower pace of life that feels worlds away. You’ll taste dishes passed down through generations, learn the secrets of rural Vietnam, and experience the country in a way most travellers never do. This isn’t just a trip, it’s Vietnam, from every angle, and it’s unforgettable.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive in Vietnam!

Good Morning Vietnam! Your adventure kicks off with a pickup from the airport and a smooth ride to your hotel in HCMC. Once you're checked in, you've got the whole day to explore or chill out. Later, meet your crew for an epic welcome dinner with new friends. Cap it all off with a dip in the rooftop pool, taking in those stunning city views.
Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms - Victory Saigon Hotel (or similar) Activities: Welcome Dinner Optional Extras: N/A Meals: Dinner Physical Rating: Low
Day 2
Ho Chi Minh City, Walking Tour & Overnight Train

Kick off your Vietnam adventure with an orientation walk through the lively streets of Ho Chi Minh City. Take in the energy of Saigon as you wander busy boulevards, explore local markets, and start uncovering the hidden corners that make this city so exciting. It is the perfect way to settle in and get a real feel for life here.
Later, join the locals at Le Van Tam Park for a relaxed game of foot badminton. Jump in for some laughs, light movement, and easygoing fun. No experience needed, just good vibes and a great way to connect with people and the city.
After freshening up at the hotel, head to the train station and board your overnight sleeper train to Da Nang, turning the journey itself into part of the adventure.
Accommodation: Overnight Train to Da Nang Activities: City Orientation Walk, Local Foot Badminton Optional Extras: N/A Meals: Breakfast Physical Rating: Medium
Day 3
Hoi An: Ancient Town Walk

After your overnight train, you’ll be transferred to your accommodation to freshen up before the exploring Hoi An on an Ancient Town Walking Tour. Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so there is so much to see and learn about in this beautiful town.
After your tour, enjoy some free time to take in the atmosphere. Wander through Hoi An Market and browse the street stalls selling paintings, woodwork, ceramics, and lanterns. Hoi An is also famous for its local tailoring, so you can visit a tailor or craftsman to have custom clothing or bags made, creating a unique keepsake from your trip.
Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms - Hoi An Rose Hotel (or similar) Activities: Ancient Town Walking Tour, Visit a Tailorshop Optional Extras: N/A Meals: N/A Physical Rating: Medium/High
Day 4
Enjoy Hoi An: Cycling, Soap Making and Kayaking on Sunset

Rise and shine! This morning, you’ll cycle through the peaceful countryside of Cam Kim Island, passing lush rice paddies and farmlands at your own pace. Stop for photos or keep pedalling, the choice is yours. Along the way, you’ll join a meaningful hands-on workshop that turns used cooking oil into eco-friendly soap. You’ll learn how this simple yet powerful initiative prevents pollution, supports local women and youth with extra income, and protects Hoi An’s natural environment.
In the afternoon, you'll get to see Hoi An from a whole new angle as you paddle down the river by kayak at sunset to experience the lantern town.
Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms - Hoi An Rose Hotel (or similar) Activities: Cycling tour, Soap making workshop, Sunset Kayak Paddle Optional Extras: N/A Meals: Breakfast Physical Rating: Medium
Day 5
To Hue & Hai Van Pass

Fuel up with breakfast, then get ready for a road trip to Hue in true style. You’ll journey up the iconic Hai Van Pass, famous for its sweeping coastal views and winding mountain roads.
By afternoon, you’ll roll into Hue, the historic Imperial City and former seat of the Nguyen Dynasty. Here you will get to visit the Imperial Citadel and learn about this UNESCO Heritage listed spot.
Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms - Park View Hotel (or similar) Activities: Imperial Citadel Visit Optional Extras: N/A Meals: Breakfast Physical Rating: Low
Day 6
The Imperial City, Hue

This morning, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and head to Thuy Bieu village, taking in Hue’s beauty from a fresh perspective. Wander through the village, visit Luong Quan communal house, and explore the hundred-year-old garden home of Ho Xuan Dai, where you’ll join a hands-on cooking class.
After a stop at the local market to learn about traditional ingredients, your host will guide you through preparing Hue’s signature dishes before you sit down to enjoy your creations.
In the afternoon, visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, an active Buddhist monastery and one of Hue’s most enduring symbols. Return to the hotel for a short rest and free-time for the rest of the afternoon. You will then be boarding the night train to Ninh Binh.
Accommodation: Overnight train to Ninh Binh Activities: Garden House Visit, Cooking Class, Thien Mu Pagoda visit Optional Extras: N/A Meals: Breakfast & Lunch Physical Rating: Low
Day 7
Thung Nang Boat Ride & Pu Luong Park

Arrive at the train station and head straight into one of Vietnam’s most beautiful natural regions. First you'll have do the relaxing Thung Nang boat ride, where a landscape of paddy fields and limestone karst will welcome you to the area.You will then continue on to Pu Luong.
Travel by bus toward Pu Luong Nature Reserve, known for its terraced rice fields, peaceful valleys, and strong local traditions. Once in Don Village, settle into your local homestay and take some time to relax.
Accommodation: Multi-share Rooms - Pu Luong Valley home (or similar) Activities: Thung Nang Boat Ride Optional Extras: N/A Meals: Dinner Physical Rating: Medium
Day 8
Pu Luong Park: Trek to Hieu Waterfalls

After breakfast, you'll be heading out on a scenic trek through bamboo forests and terraced rice fields. Your path will lead to the serene Hieu Waterfalls, tucked between limestone hills and offering a perfect touch of adventure and tranquility.
Here have the choice of swimming in the waterfalls and relaxing on the bank. You will then have lunch before heading back to the village. Then, on your own terms, explore the area with some free-time.
Accommodation: Multi-share Rooms - Pu Luong Valley home (or similar) Activities: Trek to Hieu Waterfalls Optional Extras: N/A Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Physical Rating: Medium/High
Day 9
Bang Cong, Cooking Class, Rafting & on to Hanoi

In the morning you will do the Bang Cong walk. Trek across a suspension bridge to one of Pu Luong's most scenic villages, winding through rice fields and past the region's iconic giant water wheels and learn about native herbs along the way.
You will then get the treat of participating in a Com Lam cooking class to make bamboo sticky rice and discover the significance of bamboo to the local culture. Next is the fun of bamboo rafting where you will paddle upstream with your guide.
Finally, you'll be moving from nature to the city as you travel to Vietnam's most famous city: Hanoi. Once you arrive, rest up before heading out in the evening for a guided street food tour.
Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms - Hoa Binh Hotel(or similar) Activities: Bang Cong Walk, Com Lam Cooking Class, Bamboo Rafting, Street Food Tour Optional Extras: N/A Meals: Breakfast & Dinner Physical Rating: Medium
Day 10
Ha Long & Bai Tu Long Bay

Today, you’ll leave the city behind and journey to the breathtaking Bai Tu Long Bay, a World Heritage-listed wonder that’s every bit as magical as its reputation. From the harbour, board your boat and cruise between towering limestone karsts rising from emerald waters. You'll also make a stop en route to visit a grotto of spectacular stalactites and stalagmites. Grab a paddle and kayak around the stunning scenery of Cap La Island. Fancy a dip? As the day winds down, you'll toast to new friends with sunset drinks and a delicious dinner on deck.
Please note: We recommend bringing a small overnight bag with only the essentials, as storage space on board is limited. Don’t worry about the rest of your luggage, it will be securely stored at your hotel in Hanoi, ready for you when you return after your overnight stay.
Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms - Renea Cruise (or similar) Activities: Ha Long Bay Cruise, Kayaking & Bai Tu Long Bay ?Impact Moment Optional Extras: N/A Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Physical Rating: Low/Medium
Day 11
Bai Tu Long Bay to Hanoi

Start your morning with a peaceful Tai Chi session on the sundeck, accompanied by tea, coffee, and light pastries as the bay drifts by. Spend the rest of the morning soaking up the scenery or simply relaxing on deck before enjoying brunch on board and a visit to Thein Canh Son Cave.
Around 11.30am, you’ll return to Hanoi and have some time to refresh at Hanoi Sky Hotel before being trasferred to Hanoi Railway to take the overnight train to Lao Cai tonight.
Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train – Sharing Cabin Activities: Tai Chi, Thein Canh Son Cave Optional Extras: N/A Meals: Breakfast, Brunch Physical Rating: Low/Medium
Day 12
Arrive in Sa Pa

Arriving in Sa Pa in the early morning, you’ll be met by your driver and transferred to your hotel to drop off your main luggage, bringing only a small overnight bag for your homestay. From there, meet your local guide and head straight to Ta Van Trek Point. Trek through the lush rice fields of Muong Hoa Valley and discover Ta Van village, where rural life moves at a slower pace, and friendly locals welcome you with warm smiles. After checking in at your homestay, enjoy some free time before sharing a delicious dinner with your hosts and experiencing an authentic night in the heart of Sapa.
Accommodation: Twin Share Rooms – Ta Van Homestay (or similar) Activities: Lao Chai & Ta Van trekking Optional Extras: N/A Meals: Dinner Physical Rating: Medium/High
Day 13
Ta Van to Giang Ta Chai

Wake up to a delicious breakfast at your homestay. Around 9:00 AM, you’ll set out on a trek to Giang Ta Chai Village. Hike uphill to discover a beautiful waterfall and soak in breathtaking views. Giang Ta Chai is home to the Red Dao people, known for their distinctive black attire with embroidered details. You’ll enjoy lunch in the village before a steep descent.
Back in Sa Pa town, you’ll check into tonights accommodation. The afternoon is yours to explore Sa Pa Town and browse the local market, immersing yourself in the local culture.
*Please note, that we advise guests to wear hiking shoes rather than trainers on this walk.
Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms – Cat Cat View Hotel (or similar) Activities: Trek to Giang Ta Chai Village Optional Extras: N/A Meals: Breakfast & Lunch Physical Rating: Medium / High
Day 14
Sa Pa & Chasing Waterfalls

Today’s your final day in Sa Pa. After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll head out with your guide and car to an altitude of 1700m to visit the mesmerizing Silver Waterfall, where the Muong Hoa stream begins. Snap some stunning photos before continuing your journey through a wild forest road for about 3 km, reaching a red dirt path that winds through lush green bamboo forests. At the end of the bamboo forest, you’ll follow the stream to the breathtaking Love Waterfall. The waterfall resembles a hat from a distance, creating a picturesque scene in the vast space of mountains and forests. After soaking in the beauty of Love Waterfall, you’ll return to your car and head back to Sa Pa town to enjoy your final lunch in town.
We’ve arranged a late check-out of your accommodation today, so after lunch, you’ll have time to return to your room, freshen up and get your belongings together before your overnight train.
As the evening approaches, transfer to Lao Cai Train Station for your overnight journey to Hanoi. Grab some snacks for the night train and enjoy sharing a cabin with your travel mates.
Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train – 6 Berth Cabin Activities: Silver & Love Waterfalls Optional Extras: N/A Meals: Breakfast & Lunch Physical Rating: Medium
Day 15
Goodbye!

Your Vietnamese adventure comes to an end as you arrive in Hanoi around 5-5:30 AM. As you say goodbye at Hanoi Train Station, you’ll be filled with unforgettable memories of your journey. If you’re not ready for the adventure to end, don’t hesitate to ask about extending your stay – we’re always happy to help you explore more of Vietnam!
Tam biet va Hen Gap Lai! (Goodbye and See You Again!)
Accommodation: N/A Activities: N/A Meals: N/A Physical Rating: N/A
What's Included
Accommodation
6 nights Twin/Double Rooms 3 nights Authentic Homestays - multi share 1 Overnight Cruise 4 overnight trains
Meals
Breakfasts: 10, Lunches: 6, Dinners: 6
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.
Airport Transfers
Arrival OnlyAn airport transfer to the start of the tour is included. Please contact our team if you require a quote for a return transfer.
Wifi
Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.
Dates & Prices
Oct 2026
from £1,620Nov 2026
from £1,620Dec 2026
from £1,458Jan 2027
from £1,672Feb 2027
from £1,672Mar 2027
from £1,672Apr 2027
from £1,672May 2027
from £1,672Jun 2027
from £1,672Jul 2027
from £1,672Aug 2027
from £1,672Sep 2027
from £1,672Oct 2027
from £1,672Nov 2027
from £1,672Dec 2027
from £1,672
December 2026
2 departuresClick the bell to get notified when the price drops
- Save 10%Monday 21 Dec 2026to Monday 4 Jan 2027Guaranteed Departure£1,620£1,458Best offer
- Save 10%Monday 28 Dec 2026to Monday 11 Jan 2027Guaranteed Departure£1,620£1,458Best offerBook for£200 today, pay the rest later

Make this tour private
Every departure on this trip can be booked just for your own group — your dates, your people, the same expert local guides.
What changes when you go private
Travel with just your own group
No other travellers on the trip — just the people you choose to bringTravel on your schedule
Pick your exact start date—no fixed group departures or rigid timetables.Exclusively for your party
Enjoy this handcrafted itinerary with a dedicated private guide just for you.
Customer reviews & ratings
Wonderful tour. All the way from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi. Great knowledge shared by our guide Danny. Amazing food and a cool blend of city and countryside. The hotels were decent and the overnight trains were okay. Fun sharing a cabin with a good group of people, but the sleeping was a little uncomfortable. But it was a cool experience all the same. And a great way to cover ground through the night, rather than losing time during the day. The home stay was very cool. Great food and very comfortable. Additionally there was a good amount of solo time should you wish.
Michael Parratt Apr, 2024 VerifiedThanks to our exceptional tour guide Danny, I had an unforgettable cultural experience that I wouldn't have been able to achieve on my own. His impeccable local knowledge and flawless organization of the trip earned a well-deserved perfect 5/5 rating.
Daniel Carl Bradshaw Mar, 2024 Verified
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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