- Tour code
VNMADV01
- Start
Hanoi
- End
Ho Chi Minh
- Min. age
16 years old
- Group size
6-16 persons
- Trip style
Explorer
- Trip pace
Active
- Language
English
Explore the dynamic contrasts of Vietnam on this immersive 10-day journey, traveling from the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City to the historic charm of Hanoi. Designed for travelers seeking a deeper connection, this experience blends iconic highlights with authentic local encounters.
What you will see and do
Explore the far corners of Lan Ha Bay by kayak
Meet local legend Mr Tu for a tofu-making experience
Sleep aboard a luxury junk boat and rise with the sun for tai chi on deck
What's included
All activities mentioned on the itinerary
Accommodations in double rooms
Experienced Soca Islands Host with you throughout the trip
One farewell group lunch or dinner
Max 20 travellers per group
Arrival and departure airport transfers
Group transportation
Group itinerary
Touch down in Hanoi and enjoy a seamless private transfer to your centrally located boutique hotel. In the evening, step into the heart of Vietnamese culture with an invitation to a local family home. Share a traditional Cha Ca meal with three generations, savoring authentic fish or vegetarian dishes rarely found outside a home kitchen an unforgettable start to your journey.
Travel to the iconic Ha Long Bay and board a traditional junk boat to cruise through emerald waters and towering limestone karsts. Enjoy lunch onboard as you sail into the quieter Lan Ha Bay, followed by a bamboo boat ride through the enchanting Dark and Light Cave. As evening falls, sip cocktails, enjoy a sunset dinner, and join in for a fun-filled karaoke night on board
Start the day with a peaceful tai chi session on deck as the sun rises over the bay. Later, kayak through the serene Frog Pond area, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and hidden caves. Return to the boat for brunch before cruising back to shore and continuing your journey to Hue.
Step back into Vietnam’s imperial past as you explore Hue’s ancient citadel, once home to the Nguyen Dynasty. Enjoy a unique lunch at Dong Thien Pagoda, experiencing Buddhist dining traditions in a peaceful, reflective setting. In the afternoon, visit a local workshop to learn the art of crafting traditional paper flowers.
Embark on one of the world’s most scenic train journeys from Hue to Da Nang, with breathtaking coastal views along the way. Arrive in Hoi An and explore its charming Old Town, known for its colorful heritage buildings, lantern-lit streets, and riverside atmosphere.
Cycle through Hoi An’s peaceful countryside, passing rice paddies and palm-lined paths. Cross the river to Cam Kim Island for a hands-on noodle-making experience with local villagers. In the evening, enjoy a performance of the renowned “bamboo circus,” where storytelling and acrobatics bring Vietnamese culture to life.
Spend the day at your leisure exploring Hoi An’s vibrant markets, cafés, and winding streets. In the evening, meet local host Mr. Tu for a tofu-making experience, accompanied by stories about life in Hoi An. Share a home-cooked meal with your group, followed by live music and a relaxed cultural exchange.
Fly to Ho Chi Minh City, a dynamic southern hub full of energy and contrast. Visit the War Remnants Museum for a powerful insight into Vietnam’s history. In the evening, hop on a vintage Vespa for a guided food tour, sampling local specialties at some of the city’s most beloved eateries.
Explore the Mekong Delta on an island-hopping adventure through timeless rural landscapes. Visit local workshops, enjoy lunch with a Vietnamese family, and glide through waterways on a traditional sampan boat. Return to the city for a memorable farewell dinner, celebrating your journey with modern Vietnamese cuisine and cocktails overlooking the skyline.
Tour FAQS
Fly into Hanoi International Airport (HAN) and out of Ho Chi Minh International Airport (SGN).
Yes. If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure or book pre-tour accommodation with us, your airport arrival transfer is included. If you choose alternative pre-tour accommodation or arrive by another mode of transport, you’ll need to arrange your own arrival transfer.
Our arrival transfers are private to Soca Islands and are organised in groups based on flight times. Sometimes this means a short wait at the airport until other flights arrive.
While we’re not medical professionals, we want to help you prepare for a safe and healthy adventure. Here are some tips:
- Consult with a healthcare professional: Schedule an appointment with your travel nurse or doctor at least eight weeks before your adventure to get any necessary vaccines or medications.
- Up-to-date medical advice:
- US residents: Check the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
- UK residents: Visit the NHS Fit For Travel website.
- Australian residents: Refer to the Smart Traveler Health website.
3. Government travel advice:
- US residents: Consult the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- UK residents: Check the FCDO Travel Advice.
- Australian residents: Visit the Smart Traveler website.
4. Medication tips: If you take prescription medication, bring enough to last the entire trip, plus a few extra days in case of delays. Carry a copy of your prescription in case you need to visit a clinic abroad.
We hope this helps you prepare for a safe and enjoyable adventure.
There are no scheduled activities on the final day, so feel free to book your departure at your own convenience.
We recommend arriving before 3 pm on Day 1 to make it in time for the welcome event. But don’t worry no matter when you land, we’ll have an airport transfer ready for you.
Please Refer to your government’s travel advice or consult your local consulate. Remember, passport and visa requirements can change, so make sure to stay updated.
Excluding alcohol, we suggest budgeting around USD $40.00 per day for extras.
While we’re not medical professionals, we want to help you prepare for a safe and healthy adventure. Here are some tips:
- Consult with a healthcare professional: Schedule an appointment with your travel nurse or doctor at least eight weeks before your adventure to get any necessary vaccines or medications.
- Up-to-date medical advice:
- US residents: Check the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
- UK residents: Visit the NHS Fit For Travel website.
- Australian residents: Refer to the Smart Traveler Health website.
3. Government travel advice:
- US residents: Consult the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- UK residents: Check the FCDO Travel Advice.
- Australian residents: Visit the Smart Traveler website.
4. Medication tips: If you take prescription medication, bring enough to last the entire trip, plus a few extra days in case of delays. Carry a copy of your prescription in case you need to visit a clinic abroad.
We hope this helps you prepare for a safe and enjoyable adventure.
Please keep in mind that our itinerary, activities, and hotels might change. These adjustments could happen with little notice due to factors like availability, weather conditions, seasonal shifts, or other circumstances beyond our control. Rest assured, we always aim to minimise any impact on your experience. Occasionally, we may tweak the itinerary to try out fresh ideas and keep the adventure exciting.
We believe solo travelers shouldn’t have to pay extra to explore the world. That’s why our group trips are designed around shared accommodation and do not include a single supplement. Solo travelers joining our group trips are paired in twin or multi-share rooms with another traveler of the same sex for the duration of the trip.
Some of our Independent trips are structured differently. For these itineraries, solo travelers will need to book at the single occupancy rate.
Tips are not included in the cost of this tour. Remember, tipping is entirely at your discretion and based on what you feel comfortable with.
Would you like to learn more or customise our Secret Vietnam trip?
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Secret Vietnam
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