Charming Thailand and Vietnam in 12 days
- Bangkok
- Chiang Rai
- Chiang Mai
- Hanoi
- Ninh Binh
- Halong Bay
Celebrate this year with a 12-day tour of Vietnam and Thailand. Known as the 'Land of Golden Temples' and the 'Pearls of Asia,' these two countries are among the most famous destinations in Southeast Asia. Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or on your own, this journey is promising to give you an itinerary packed with engaging activities and fascinating visits.
- Discover the hidden beauty of Bangkok, Thailand's capital, through visits to the famous Maeklong and Damnoen Saduak markets.
- Explore prestigious temples in Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai, and engage with friendly elephants while learning about their care.
- Admire the incredible natural landscapes of Ninh Binh, one of the top destinations to visit in 2023.
- Enjoy the beauty of the islands and islets in Halong Bay, declared a UNESCO Natural Heritage Site.
- Bangkok
- Chiang Rai
- Chiang Mai
- Hanoi
- Ninh Binh
- Halong Bay
DAY 1 ARRIVAL IN BANGKOK
Upon arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) in Bangkok, Thailand, you'll be met by your friendly English-speaking guide holding a sign with your name clearly displayed for welcome. Check-in at the hotel will be arranged as soon as possible, aiming for immediate access to your room if available. Standard hotel check-in time is usually 2:00 PM, but the hotel will do their best to accommodate you upon arrival. With the afternoon free, you can use the provided map to embark on your own adventure! Explore the vibrant city at your own pace, soaking up the sights, sounds, and aromas that make Bangkok unique.
In the evening, relax and recharge at your comfortable hotel, ready for the exciting experiences that await you tomorrow.
This marks the exciting beginning of your Thailand and Vietnam trip in 12 days with Kampá Tour.
DAY 2 BANGKOK VISIT
After breakfast, commence on a captivating journey through Bangkok's rich history and vibrant culture.
Board a traditional long-tail boat and glide along the majestic Chao Praya River, also known as the River of Kings. Immerse yourself in the bustling life along the Thonburi canals, witnessing the unique rhythm of local waterside communities.
Your first stop is the National Museum of Royal Barges, where you'll marvel at the ornate vessels used by Thai royalty for centuries. Next, be dazzled by the Temple of Dawn, Wat Arun, adorned with its mesmerizing glazed porcelain mosaics.
Continue to the Wat Traimit temple, home to the awe-inspiring Golden Buddha, a 5.5-ton statue crafted entirely of solid gold.
Journey to the heart of Bangkok, the Royal Palace, founded in 1782 by King Rama I. Stand in awe of its grand walls enclosing a vast 259 hectares.
Within the palace grounds, discover Wat Phra Kaew, the Royal Chapel, housing the Emerald Buddha, the most revered statue in Thailand. This magnificent temple is a true masterpiece of Thai artistry.
No tour of Bangkok is complete without visiting Wat Pho, home to the largest Reclining Buddha in the country. Explore the temple grounds and marvel at the intricate details of the massive statue, surrounded by fascinating Chinese statues representing royal guards.
After a day filled with cultural immersion, return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
DAY 3 BANGKOK – FLOATING MARKET – TRAIN MARKET
Embark on a thrilling morning adventure as you depart for the west of Bangkok to the Maeklong Railway Market. Witness the vendors' impressive agility as they quickly fold up their stalls moments before the scheduled train passes around 8:30 AM (note that the exact timing may vary). Be sure to capture this dynamic scene on camera!
Next, head to Samut Songkhran, where you'll board a traditional canoe for an unforgettable journey through the Grand Canal.
Your journey culminates at the heart of the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, a picturesque haven for shoppers and photographers. Explore the vibrant stalls overflowing with local produce, flowers, plants, and even animals. Be sure to bargain for souvenirs and indulge in delicious Thai treats from the floating vendors.
After a day filled with unique experiences, return to Bangkok for some well-deserved relaxation. Enjoy some free time to explore at your own pace or simply unwind at your hotel.
DAY 4 BANGKOK – FLIGHT TO CHIANG RAI
After breakfast, transfer to the airport to take the flight to Chiang Rai.
Arrival at Chiang Mai airport, meet the English-speaking guide and begin to discover Chiang Mai. We will visit the famous Wat Rong Khun, also known as the "White Temple", famous throughout Asia for its modern Thai architecture. Return to the center of Chiang Rai and visit the most important temples in the city: Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Phra Sing. Leisure.
Night in Chiang Rai.
DAY 5 CHIANG RAI – CHIANG MAI
Start a captivating morning excursion as you cruise along the mighty Mekong River to the renowned Golden Triangle. Witness the awe-inspiring confluence of borders between Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos, savoring panoramic views of the Mekong's majesty.
Depart for Chiang Saen, where you'll board a speedboat for a thrilling ride on the Khong River, forming the natural border with Laos. Upon arrival at the Golden Triangle, stand proudly at the meeting point of three nations, absorbing the historical and geographical significance of this unique location.
Continue your journey to Chiang Mai, aptly nicknamed the "Rose of the North". Upon arrival, prepare to be mesmerized by Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a revered landmark. According to legend, a 14th-century elephant chose the site for this pagoda, perched atop a 1,000-meter hill overlooking the city. Climb the majestic 300-step staircase flanked by mythical naga serpents, culminating in a breathtaking golden chedi enshrining sacred Buddha relics. Soak in the panoramic vistas of Chiang Mai unfolding before you - a truly unforgettable experience.
Return to Chiang Mai, where your comfortable accommodation awaits.
DAY 6 CHIANG MAI - A DAY WITH GENTLE GIANTS
Immerse yourself in the wonders of Thailand's natural heritage with a visit to a responsible elephant sanctuary near Chiang Mai. Instead of traditional "training camps," this sanctuary focuses on the well-being and ethical care of elephants.
Learn about these majestic creatures from knowledgeable guides as you observe their natural behaviors and responsible daily routines. Engage in activities that prioritize elephant welfare, such as preparing their food and enriching their environment.
Enjoy a delicious lunch of local specialties in a scenic setting, savoring the flavors of the region.
In the afternoon, participate in a mindful elephant bathing experience. Observe and interact with these gentle giants as they cool off and socialize in a natural setting. This activity emphasizes responsible interaction and avoids practices that exploit elephants.
Return to Chiang Mai with a newfound appreciation for elephants and their importance in Thai culture.
Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure, exploring the city at your own pace.
DAY 7 CHIANG MAI – FLIGHT TO HANOI
Breakfast at hotel. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport to take the flight to Hanoi. Arrival in Hanoi, reception by your English-speaking guide at the airport and transfer to the hotel to check in according to availability. Free time to explore the city on your own.
Take a rest for the night in Hanoi.
DAY 8 VISIT HANOI
Start your day with a fascinating journey through Hanoi's rich history and culture.
Embrace the morning light as you explore iconic landmarks, including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the unique One Pillar Pagoda, and the peaceful Tran Quoc Temple. Step back in time at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university established in 1070.
Indulge in a delicious lunch of "Cha Ca," a traditional Hanoi dish featuring grilled fish on rice noodles. Wander through the labyrinthine streets of the Old Quarter, where shops bear names reflecting their wares - Paper Street, Sugar Street, and Silver Street, each a treasure trove waiting to be discovered.
Unwind with a local beverage of your choice, whether it's a creamy "ca phe sua da" (egg coffee) or a refreshing glass of beer. Conclude your cultural exploration at Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as the Lake of the Restored Sword. Visit the serene Ngoc Son Temple, accessible by the iconic The Huc Bridge.
Witness the magic of Vietnamese water puppetry at the Thang Long Theatre.
Then return to your hotel with lasting memories of Hanoi's diverse cultural tapestry.
DAY 9 HANOI – NINH BINH – TAM COC – BICH DONG
Departure to Ninh Binh – land of limestone rocks, sugar loaves and rice fields flooded by rivers and lakes all year round. After 2 hours by car, we arrive at the province of Ninh Binh. We will board a boat along the Ngo Dong River to take a tour in Tam Coc, also known as “Halong Bay on earth”. This long river meanders through rice fields, sugar loaves and passes beneath the three caves at the foot of limestone peaks.
We will continue with the visit to Bich Dong Cave, one of the most beautiful caves in Ninh Binh. We will visit a pagoda located in Bich Dong.
Finally, we will visit Hoa Lu – chosen as the ancient capital of Dai Co Viet (ancient name of Vietnam), with the vestiges of the temples of the kings in the dynasty of Dinh and Le.
DAY 10 HANOI – HALONG BAY
Commence on a journey to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most stunning landscapes in Asia.
Start your adventure with a scenic road trip, crossing fertile rice fields bathed in water. Upon arrival, board your traditional junk boat and begin your exploration of the awe-inspiring bay.
Marvel at the picturesque islands and islets, each uniquely shaped and named after their resemblance to everyday objects like dogs, roosters, and incense burners.
Step into the otherworldly beauty of Thien Canh Son Cave, adorned with centuries-old stalagmites and stalactites.
Continue your cruise to Cap La, where you can kayak through emerald waters and swim in the refreshing bay (weather permitting).
Relax on the sundeck as the afternoon sun paints the sky with vibrant hues.
Learn the art of preparing traditional Vietnamese spring rolls during a fun cooking demonstration onboard.
Savor delicious meals prepared with fresh local ingredients and enjoy the camaraderie of your fellow travelers.
DAY 11 HALONG – HANOI
Get up at dawn to enjoy a moment of unique splendor: the first rays of sun emerging from the thousands of sugar loaves of the bay and participating in a Tai Chi session on the terrace.
Boat or kayak ride to discover the fishing village of Vung Vieng, possible meeting with local inhabitants.
Lunch on the junk, disembark and return to Hanoi.
Night in Hanoi.
DAY 12 HANOI - DEPARTURE
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport to catch the international departure flight.
This marks the end of our 12-day trip through Thailand and Vietnam. Thank you for choosing us!
• Travel period
• Number of travelers
• Chosen services
- Accommodation for the entire circuit, in hotels or with locals
- Travel according to the program by private car
- English-speaking guide for the visits mentioned in the program
- All activities mentioned in the program, including entrance fees to tourist sites
- Economy class domestic flights with airport taxes included
- Meals mentioned in the program
- Bottle of water during guided tours (2 x 500ml/traveler/day)
- Government taxes currently in force (VAT, etc.)
- International flights from your home
- Visa fees, payable directly at the airport customs (see VISA)
- Bank fees related to payment
- Personal insurance
- Personal beverages during meals: beer, Coca-Cola, fruit juice, etc.
- Other meals not specified in the program
- SIM card and mobile plans
- Tips, personal expenses, and other services not mentioned in the "Our Included Services" section
Interested in this tour?
What they say about us
Countless travelers create unforgettable memories with us every year. Discover their testimonials about our exceptional service, stunning destinations, and the highlights of their trips !
What they say about us
Carles & his partner - Spain
January 04, 2025 - Good morning, Mrs. Thuy Do,
We finally found the time to write to you and share our travel experience.
A huge THANK YOU for this magnificent trip that was absolutely flawless!
Everything was perfect: from the hotels you selected for us to the drivers and guides (Thai, Dzung, and Anh), who were wonderful and accompanied us throughout. And, of course, the fabulous itinerary you organized for us, allowing us to discover incredible wonders, including the rice terraces in the north, the lantern-filled city of Hoi An in the center, as well as Ninh Binh and Halong Bay.
You and the guides and drivers who joined us contributed immensely to making our trip an unforgettable moment of happiness.
We returned home with great sadness at leaving your beautiful country, as well as the smiles and kindness of its people.
Thank you again for your professionalism, availability, kindness, warmth, the welcome at your agency, and your smiles.
We can’t wait to come back—and
Ethan's Family - Switzerland
December 30, 2024 - Dear Nhung,
A huge THANK YOU for organizing our trip, which was flawless. And yet, we gave you so much work!
First, in crafting the itinerary, custom-tailored to include our requested visits. You contacted me several times on WhatsApp, and in the end, the itinerary suited us perfectly and fit within the budget we had set. Thank you, Nhung, for your availability, attentiveness, and patience.
Then, unfortunately, we had to test your skills and professionalism when, one day before departure, my wife had a sinus infection requiring emergency surgery. We were initially supposed to travel as a group of three—my sister, my wife, and me. Given how well-prepared the trip was, I asked my sister to go ahead. Three days after the surgery, which went very well, I decided to join my sister and pick up the itinerary mid-trip (a week later) from Ha Long Bay. Nhung was amazing and remarkably efficient. She canceled my wife's arrangements and organized my transfer to the Ha
Françoise & Claude - France
December 12, 2024 - Dear NHUNG,
A huge THANK YOU for organizing our trip, which was flawless. How much work you must have had to do for us!
First, for creating a custom itinerary, taking into account our requests for visits. To do this, you contacted me several times on WhatsApp, and in the end, the tour was perfect and fit within our budget. Thank you, Nhung, for your availability, your listening, and your patience.
Then, unfortunately, we had to test, quite against our will, your competence and professionalism when, one day before departure, my husband developed a sinus infection requiring urgent surgery. We were leaving as three—my brother and us. We had prepared the trip so well that I asked my brother to go ahead. Three days later, after the surgery went very well, I decided to join my brother and take the tour from Halong Bay (one week later). Nhung was amazing and incredibly efficient. She canceled my husband’s personal bookings and took care of my transfer to the Halon
Eric and friends - Australia
November 25, 2024 - Hello Nhung,
What a wonderful surprise this palace in Sapa is once again.
We deeply appreciate the tranquility and relaxation of this sumptuous and luxurious establishment: it's a perfect retreat after the bustling days we’ve had since our arrival.
What magnificent discoveries we’ve had in the program you organized for us.
Incredible landscapes and settings, remarkable encounters, and extraordinary people everywhere in the local life. The guides were all different but so passionate and engaging (little Linh, so endearing, Hang, and Sam, so dedicated and professional). The drivers were experienced (especially Cuong in the North, who is our favorite: so kind and attentive… and an expert at navigating the mountain roads to keep us safe).
Leonardo and his wife - France
November 15, 2024 - Dear Nhung,
I finally find the time to write to you and share the impressions that our journey to Vietnam left on us.
Beyond the wonderful memories of the 23 days we spent in Vietnam, there is a particular aspect of this trip that I wish to share with you.
My wife and I have traveled fairly extensively. Not as much as we would have liked, but over the years, we have had the opportunity to visit several countries and have learned to organize our trips quite competently and independently. We have never participated in an organized tour and have always chosen our destinations, itineraries, and experiences based on our readings about the countries we visit and our personal tastes and interests. For Vietnam, our starting point was the same, and you may recall that to define our itinerary, we initially sent you a very precise and detailed travel plan.
Véronique Demonçay - Canada
October 20, 2024 - Good evening Mrs. Trang,
We have returned home and resumed work, though with a bit of nostalgia after discovering your beautiful country.
We had an excellent trip; everything was just as planned. Our guide Thien made the stay very enjoyable by scheduling visits during less crowded times. Always kind, cheerful, and speaking excellent English, he shared his knowledge and the great cultural richness of his country. He always gave us great advice. Thank you also to Mr. Long for his careful driving and kindness.
In Cambodia, Mr. Tra (short for his name) also adapted the visit itinerary to less crowded times. He added a temple visit and the visit to the Angkor Scent Workshop. We ended up visiting the floating village of Kampong Phuck, which was closer than the one originally planned, and there weren't too many people yet. This allowed us to visit a local market as well.
Just for your information, it’s necessary to complete the e-Arrival form for Cambodia in add
Pier-Luc Desbiens - Australia
October 7, 2024 - Hello,
We booked this tour at the last minute, and Kampá Tour didn’t disappoint with their prompt organization. Our guide, Thao, was fantastic—full of energy, humor, and knowledge. We spent a lot of time on boats, drifting along the rivers and canals. We loved cycling through the quiet palm groves and cruising through the narrow waterways by sampan in Mekong Delta.
A special thank you to the entire team at Kampá Tour. We spent 15 days in a wonderful country, with remarkable people, extraordinary landscapes, and a fascinating culture... Our return flight on Sunday was also perfect, and we have already been back at work since Monday... but with many images of Vietnam still in our heads and hearts 😊
Best regards,
Pier-Luc Desbiens
Brigitte and Jean - USA
September 22, 2024 - Dear Ms. Thanh LE,
We are already back in Toulouse, and we didn’t realize how quickly time flew by.
Our 18-day Vietnam tour (August-September 2024) was an unforgettable experience.
First of all, we would like to thank your agency, "Kampá Tour," and especially you, Ms. Thanh Le. This trip, organized by your agency, was remarkably well-prepared, with representatives always attentive to our needs. The selection of hotels and destinations was meticulously planned. During our stay, we had five guides who were always there for us, making us live magical moments. A special thanks to Nhi and Lam. We loved our experiences in Sapa, Hue, Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, the Imperial City, and many other places (the list is long).
Regarding safety, it was very reassuring, and we felt well taken care of before and during the trip. On the first day, we had the chance to meet you at your Hanoi office, where you handed us the documents for our tour. I highly recommend this customiz
Maria Dolores & friends - Argentina
September 12, 2024 - Hello,
We had the most amazing time and are heading back to Argentina completely in love with your beautiful country! Everything was perfectly organized, and always on time.
The hotels were so comfortable, and the guides were absolutely fantastic. Special thanks to Luis in Hanoi and Ming in Phnom Penh for their kindness and professionalism – they really made our trip extra special! Hue and Phnom Penh were simply breathtaking – such charming cities with so much history and beauty. We couldn't have asked for a better experience, and we truly appreciate all the effort that went into planning this unforgettable journey.
I will be recommending your agency to all my friends and family – you have been incredible!
Big hugs and all the best,
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is the ideal time to travel to Thailand?
Undoubtedly, if the weather is your main concern when planning your trip to Thailand, we recommend considering the dry season, which runs from November to February. During this period, Thailand experiences its dry season, with sunny days and little rainfall. The climate is very pleasant, it is not too hot and it does not rain often, which makes it ideal for tourist activities and exploring the country.
However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest period for tourists in Thailand, so you may find higher prices and more people in popular destinations.
Additionally, there may be weather variations in different parts of the country, so it's important to do your research and take into account the specific conditions of the regions you plan to visit.
We will be happy to assist you and provide you with more information about the weather and any other queries you may have for your trip to Thailand.
2. What kind of transportation is included in those journeys?
3. What is the best time of year to book Thailand and Vietnam journeys?
4. Are Thailand and Vietnam adventures suitable for families?
5. When is the best time to visit Vietnam?
6. Do I need to be vaccinated to travel to Thailand?
7. Do I need a visa to visit Thailand?
Still have questions or hesitations?