VIETNAM HIGHLIGHTS - 12 days

Summary

Experience Vietnam’s highlights in just twelve days with flights between each city, enabling you to see as much as you can. From Hanoi, the Paris of the Orient, venture north to the mountains of Sapa, where hill tribe villages, ethnic minorities and stunning scenery await you. Continue your journey to magnificent Halong Bay for an overnight cruise on a traditional junk, before flying to the ancient capital of Hue. Chill out in Hoi An, a charming old fishing town with fascinating architecture and laid back atmosphere. End your holiday absorbing the bright lights of Saigon and venturing into the heart of the Mekong Delta.

 

Good for

Families, couples, friends

 

Those wishing to experience the main tourist attractions of Vietnam in under 2 weeks

 

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi

 

On arrival in Hanoi transfer to your hotel of choice.

 

Day 2: Hanoi - Sapa

 

Enjoy a personally guided city tour where Hanoi’s rich history will be unraveled and local life revealed, including a traditional cyclo tour through the narrow ancient streets of the exotic Old Quarter. In the evening board the overnight train to Lao Cai near the Chinese border. (B,L)

 

Day 3: Sapa

 

Arrive early morning and head into the hills of Sapa. Navigate small paths into valleys and along rivers, passing through small ethnic minority hill tribes such as the Black H’mong. They are proud of their culture and still keep their traditions and way of living, including their own language and traditional indigo blue, embroidered clothing. This evening, either hike

 

into Ta Van village and stay overnight with a local family or return to the comfort of a hotel in Sapa. (B,L)

 

Day 4: Sapa - Hanoi

 

Today visit the Red Dao people, stopping at a waterfall along the way. The Red Dao women wear colourful red embroidery and coins on their clothing and red scarves on their heads. Some of the women have shaved off their eyebrows because of a Red Dao Legend. Afternoon at leisure in Sapa to explore local markets before boarding the overnight train back to Hanoi. (B)

 

Day 5: Hanoi - Halong Bay

 

After an early traditional breakfast drive east to Halong Bay. With more than a thousand limestone peaks rising up from its emerald waters, this area is one of five World Heritage-listed sites in Vietnam. Spend the rest of the day exploring limestone caves, relaxing on the deck, swimming, or kayaking in secluded lagoons, followed by a seafood feast for dinner. (B,L,D)

 

Day 6: Halong Bay - Hue

 

Wake up to the sun rising over the bay and enjoy an early morning swim, followed by breakfast and a visit to a spectacular cave. In the afternoon transfer to the airport and fly south to the ancient town of Hue. (B,L)

 

Day 7: Hue

 

The cultural capital of Vietnam is rich with history, culture and religion. Spend the day exploring the Citadel, home to the Royal Palace and Forbidden City (now a UNESCO World Heritage site) before a sunset cruise along the Perfume River. (B,L)

 

Day 8: Hue - Hoi An

Drive to Hoi An via the coastal Hai Van Pass, visiting the Cham museum along the way. Afternoon in Hoi An at leisure to shop at the tailors or relax on the beach. (B)

Day 9: Hoi An

 

Get your walking shoes on for a guided tour through this World Heritage town, before experiencing a real culinary treat – a cooking class! Hoi An is renowned for its culinary delights and you will get to enjoy the fruits of your efforts! (B,L)

 

Day 10: Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City

 

After lunch fly to Ho Chi Minh City. Spend the afternoon in the bustling city taking in the highlights of Saigon. (B)

 

Day 11: Mekong Delta

 

Delve into the heart of the Mekong Delta on a cruise on a traditional sampan, exploring the fascinating life on the Mekong River. Visit a floating market, a beautiful island and dine at a superb Indochine restaurant, an ideal way to spend the day on the Delta. (B,L)

 

Day 12: Depart Ho Chi Minh City

You will be driven to the airport for your flight out of Vietnam. (B)

 

Price

The cost for this itinerary is approximately US$1,000- 1,500 per person based on two people traveling in standard accommodation. Price depends on the number of people, category and dates of travel. Please contact us to customize this itinerary and price to meet your needs and budget.

 

Inclusion

• English speaking tour guide(s)

• All transfers and transportation

• Accommodation based on twin sharing with breakfast included

• Food as mentioned in the itinerary

• Domestic flights from Hanoi – Hue, Danang - Ho Chi Minh City

• All guided sightseeing fees and entrance fees as per itinerary

 

Exclusion

• Meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary

• Visa and visa fees

• Travel insurance

• Personal expenses

• Tips & gratuity