3 Weeks in Vietnam: A Tapestry of Authentic Experiences

A day dedicated to exploring Hanoi's most remarkable cultural sites and historical monuments:

• The Temple of Literature, a symbol of feudal education and one of Hanoi's iconic landmarks.

Built 1000 years ago, this Confucian temple served as an institution where royal offspring and sons of mandarins received their education. It also hosted competitions for the country's most talented students, with the winners attaining the status of scholars and senior officials in Vietnamese feudal dynasties.

• Visit Ba Dinh Square, the location of the former palace of the Indochina governor, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and his residence.
• Explore the Ethnography Museum, home to a vast collection of 25,000 ancient and contemporary artifacts that provide insights into the history of local populations.
• In the evening, enjoy a water puppet show – a distinctive feature of the Vietnamese culture.

Colorful wooden puppets are skillfully manipulated by the artists using rods and bamboo shafts underwater. It is a unique and captivating art form unique to the Northern Vietnamese tradition.

Night in Hanoi.

En route to the high mountains in the far north of the country, a large border region with Laos and China, we will make stops along the way. First, we'll visit Suoi Giang, the land of green tea plantations with its large tea trees that are hundreds of years old. It's possible to arrange a visit to a tea farm and enjoy a tea tasting session.

Upon arrival in Nghia Lo, a small town located in the heart of the expansive Muong Lo basin, we will settle in with a Thai family in Ban Deu village, which is populated by black and white Thai minorities. Our hosts will warmly welcome us, and after some rest, we'll embark on a bike ride around the village. During this time, we'll have the opportunity to meet the Thais and discover the differences between black and white Thais, including their clothing, habits, and customs.

According to ethnologists, the Nghia Lo region is considered the cradle of the Thais and the place of origin of their migration to various regions within the country, as well as towards Thailand or Laos

This extensive valley is encircled by the Hoang Lien Son mountain ranges and ranks as the second largest rice field in the northern mountains

In the evening, enjoy dinner with the host family and spend the night in their traditional house on stilts.

Homestay accommodations typically consist of a single room within a traditional house, which may be constructed of wood or on stilts, among other styles. Mosquito nets, mattresses, and clean sheets are provided on-site for your comfort. The bathroom, equipped with hot water and towels, as well as shared toilets, are often located outside the main house.

After receiving warm greetings from our hosts, we'll head towards Mu Cang Chai, a place renowned for its magnificent rice terraces. This landscape, a true delight for discerning photographers, reaches its zenith from June to September when the hills, slopes, and fields are adorned with lush green and golden rice paddies. Our journey will include several planned stops:

Mu Cang Chai is nestled in a mountainous region at the base of the Hoang Lien Son range, which is an arm of the Himalayas in Southeast Asia. The area boasts a temperate climate and is famous for its pine forests, tea plantations, and, most notably, its breathtaking rice terraces. The region is predominantly inhabited by Thai and Hmong ethnic minorities, making it a captivating stopover between Nghia Lo and Sapa.

• The Khau Pha pass overlooking the beautiful valley of Tu Le rice fields.

The Khau Pha Pass is recognized as one of the four most important and impressive passes in Vietnam. It is on this famous Khau Pha pass that the Khau Pha paragliding festival is held, an activity allowing you to fly over and contemplate from above the splendor of the rice terraces of Mu Cang Chai.

• La Pan Tan, Che Cu Nha, De Xu Phinh where there are Hmong villages and very beautiful rice terraces.
• The Mu Cang Chai market still remains authentic.
• Continuation to Than Uyen, check-in at the hotel upon arrival.

Small mountainous town nestled in the hollow of mountain ranges, on the road from Mu Cang Chai to Sapa. Than Uyen is mainly inhabited by Thai minorities who subsist on rice cultivation.

Continuation to Sapa via the Hoang Lien Son range, the last arm of the Himalayas in southeast Asia. Arrival in Sapa, walk to discover this old French resort:

Located at the end of the country on the famous Hoang Lien Son range, this region was a French resort during the colonial era thanks to its temperate climate. It is well known today for its fabulous landscapes typical of the high mountains of the North (zig zag paths winding along the backs of hills and mountains, rice terraces as far as the eye can see) and for its authentic culture (traditional villages and markets, minority ethnic groups). …).

• The Gothic church of Sapa built by the French a hundred years ago.
• The central market, the small streets with many “ethnic shops”.
• Afternoon, walk to the Ma Tra village of the Black H’mong.
• Unlike other Hmong villages, Hmong families in Ma Tra do not disperse over the hills but gather in a small valley. In the middle of the village, ladies, girls, children... often get together to do embroidery, chat... People cultivate a lot of artichokes.
• Continuation to the Ta Phin village of the red Dzao. Compared to its Hmong brothers, Dzay, Tay, etc., the red Dzao are easily differentiated by the red scarves. They are well known for their use of medicinal herbs in the treatment of diseases.

Return to Sapa, night at the hotel.

Day of hiking in the middle of beautiful exotic landscapes along the Muong Hoa valley (Muong Hoa being a long valley located southwest of Sapa, at the foot of Mount Fanxipan – the highest mountain in Indochina) .

The route through ethnic villages spread throughout the valley: Y Linh Ho and Lao Chai of the black Hmong, Ta Van of the Dzay,…. Meeting local inhabitants at work in the rice fields, discovering their work and daily life.

Night in Sapa.

• Begin your journey in Sapa, a popular destination in Northern Vietnam known for its natural beauty and ethnic cultures.
• Drive approximately 100 kilometers northeast from Sapa to Bac Ha. The journey takes around 2-3 hours.
• Enjoy the scenic route with terraced rice fields and winding rivers.
• Visit less touristy villages like Thai Giang Pho and Na Hoi, home to Tay, Black Hmong, and Flower Hmong ethnic minorities.
• Explore Bac Ha and its famous weekly markets for unique handicrafts and local products.
• Stay with a welcoming Tay ethnic family in Bac Ha for an immersive cultural experience, including a traditional dinner and overnight stay. 

Exploration of a local weekly market near Bac Ha, where you'll encounter vibrant ethnic minority communities exchanging goods and news within their own communities.

In the afternoon, return to Hanoi by road.

Enjoy some free time for rest.

Spend the night at the hotel.

Departure for Ninh Binh – the land of limestone karsts, sugarloaf mountains, and rice fields flooded by rivers and lakes throughout the year.

Arrival in Ninh Xuan, visit to Mua Mountain. Climb a 486-step white stone staircase to the summit of this bell-shaped mountain, which offers a panoramic view of the Tam Coc region.

A limestone mountain located near the rivers and sugarloaf mountains of Tam Coc. In the past, it was renowned for its dance performances for the kings of the Tran Dynasty (13th-14th century).

Afterward, transfer to Tam Coc for a bike ride and leisurely exploration of this fabulous region.

Explore a vast landscape featuring sugarloaf-shaped rock formations, rice paddies, and rivers. Enjoy boat rides on the Ngo Dong River, winding through the sugarloaf peaks, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the lush surrounding nature.

In the afternoon, enjoy a boat excursion on the Ngo Dong River to explore Tam Coc. This meandering river winds through rice paddies, sugarloaf formations, and passes under the three caves at the base of the limestone peaks.

Overnight stay in Ninh Binh.

Departure for Halong Bay, Vietnam's most beautiful bay and one of the most enchanting landscapes in Asia.

Upon arrival, board a traditional junk boat. You will be welcomed by the crew, and then the cruise begins in this stunning bay. Visit Bai Tu Long Bay, which is the northern part of Halong Bay.

We offer shared junks, which are often small in size with 10 to 12 cabins, accommodating around twenty people on board. You also have the option to choose a private cruise on a smaller junk with one or a few cabins for unforgettable experiences. Please contact us for this option.

• Admire the picturesque islands and islets with various shapes (sail, dog, rooster, incense...).
• Take a boat ride or kayak to explore the fishing village of Vung Vieng, where you might have a chance to meet local residents.
• In the late afternoon, relax on the upper deck of the junk.
• Participate in a culinary demonstration on board, where you can learn how to make spring rolls or other dishes.
• Enjoy delicious seafood for lunch and dinner.
• The evening is free for your personal relaxation and leisure: card games, night fishing, and more.
• Spend the night on board the junk.

Wake up at dawn to experience a moment of unparalleled beauty: the first rays of sunlight emerging from the thousands of limestone karsts in the bay, followed by a Tai Chi session on the terrace.

Continue the cruise to explore lesser-known parts of Halong Bay. Visit the magnificent caves of Halong Bay, including Thien Canh Son Cave, which houses stalagmites and stalactites dating back thousands of years.

Enjoy lunch on the junk, then disembark and return to Hanoi.

In the evening, catch an evening flight to Hue, the ancient imperial city in the central part of the country.

Spend the night in Hue.

Departure for a city tour of Hue (Hue being the last imperial capital of Vietnam from 1802 to 1945):

• The Imperial City: The residence and workplace of the 13 Nguyen emperors for 143 years.
• Gia Long Mausoleum: Dedicated to the founder of the Nguyen Dynasty, one of the two key figures in the unique Franco-Vietnamese relationship (the other being the French priest Pigneau de Behaine). Alternatively, you can visit the Minh Mang Mausoleum, the emperor famous for having 142 children with 43 concubines.
• Phu Mong Village: Known for its garden houses, which are an integral part of Hue's imperial identity.
• Thien Mu Pagoda: The most beautiful and most visited pagoda in Hue, or the tranquil Tu Hieu Pagoda, which contains the tombs of eunuchs from the Nguyen Dynasty.
• Depending on the timing, you may have the opportunity to witness the monks' prayer session.
• Dong Ba Market: The largest and oldest market in Hue, where you can find local specialties such as conical hats and tunics.

Spend the night at the hotel.

Day excursion to discover the villages and pagodas around Hue.

Board a boat for a stroll upstream of the peaceful Perfume River. Stop at the Thien Mu Pagoda located on a green fir hill, then at the village of Thuy Bieu, which specializes in planting grapefruits known for their quality. Bike ride around the Thuy Bieu village, on paths shaded by thousands of grapefruit and fruit trees... the opportunity to immerse yourself in serene and green nature. Installation with a peasant family, meeting with the hosts. Participation in the preparation of lunch, tasting dishes cooked by yourself.

Originating in the Truong Son mountain range (a long mountain range running along the border between Laos and Vietnam), this river peacefully flows through the city of Hue. The tombs of kings, pagodas, and temples located on its banks make this river the symbol and soul of the ancient imperial capital of Hue.

In the afternoon, transfer by car to the Sinh village, which is known for making prints... Walk around the village, stop at Mr. Phuoc, the artist with 60 years of experience, discovery of the stages of making prints, then introduction to traditional techniques.

Continuation of the visit with the village of Thanh Tien, which specializes in the manufacture of paper flowers. This 400-year-old profession has been passed down from generation to generation until today. Here, all kinds of flowers (lotus, rose, tuberose, sunflower, etc.) are reproduced in paper, bamboo, and other local materials. It's really hard to tell the real thing from the fake. Visit a factory to understand the work of very skilled craftsmen.

Return to Hue, the rest of the day is free for rest.

Night at the hotel.

Road to Hoi An, a quaint old town located 150 kilometers south of Hue, off the beaten path along the wild coastal shore of the Eastern Sea and the Cloud Pass road. Several visits and stops are planned along the way:

An important pass located between Hue and Da Nang, which serves as a significant climatic barrier between the north and the south of the country. From the top of the pass, you can admire the magnificent bays of Lang Co and Da Nang that stretch as far as the eye can see.

You'll also get to view beautiful bays with turquoise waters in Lang Co and Da Nang, long beaches that are still relatively untouched by tourists and preserved: Thuan An and Lang Co; along with extensive lagoons housing various types of fish farms belonging to the local population.

The Cloud Pass is the highest pass in the central region.

You'll encounter picturesque roadside cemeteries, often referred to as 'ghost towns.' These cemeteries contain sets of tombs - resembling castles - crafted in various finely detailed Asian architectural styles. This presents an opportunity to discover the unique 'Double Burial' custom among the Vietnamese.

Upon arrival in Hoi An in the afternoon, you will check in and spend the night at the hotel.

Walking tour in the Old Quarter to explore the must-see attractions of Hoi An, renowned as "Vietnam's most enchanting city":

• The Fujian Shrine, dedicated to the protective goddess of fishermen and sailors.
• Phuc Thanh Pagoda, Hoi An's oldest pagoda, founded in 1454.
• The Japanese Bridge, a historic landmark built in 1593 that connects the Chinese and Japanese districts.
• Stroll through ancient streets, visit museums, and explore centuries-old wooden houses. Browse silk and lantern shops and workshops.

Enjoy a scenic bike ride into the Hoi An countryside, where you'll encounter picturesque rice fields, quaint hamlets, shrimp farms, and lush vegetable gardens. Along the route, make a stop at Cam Chau village, where you'll have the opportunity to visit a lantern factory and learn about the intricate lantern-making process, including bamboo basketry, dyeing, and paper crafting.

Return to Hoi An in the late afternoon, and spend the night at your hotel.

Enjoy a full day at your leisure for independent exploration of Hoi An's charming old town. You have various options:

• Explore the historic Old Quarter, wander through its narrow streets, and discover its unique charm. You can also indulge in shopping for local products like lacquerware, handicrafts, and more.

• Consider getting tailor-made clothing at one of the renowned silk shops in town. Hoi An is famous for its skilled tailors, and you can have custom garments created to your liking.

• Embark on a delightful bike ride into the picturesque countryside surrounding Hoi An. Along the way, you'll encounter traditional villages specializing in various crafts such as vegetable farming, pottery, and carpentry.

• Weather permitting, unwind on the exquisite Eastern Sea beaches, including Cua Dai and An Bang, renowned as Vietnam's most beautiful. Bask in the sun and embrace the refreshing sea breeze for a truly revitalizing experience.

After a day of exploration and relaxation, return to your hotel for the night. 

After a flight to Ho Chi Minh City, the capital of the south (formerly Saigon), you'll begin your exploration of the city's center, often referred to as "colonial Saigon." Here are the details:

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is the largest city in the country, with a population of around 10 million. It serves as a gateway to various regions, including the Mekong Delta, the coastline, and the southern highlands.

• A visit to Ben Thanh Market, an iconic symbol of the city bustling with local life and commerce.
• A stop at Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, both masterpieces designed according to the plans of Gustave Eiffel, showcasing the city's rich architectural heritage.
• A tour of the Headquarters of the Popular Committee of Ho Chi Minh City, the former Central Town Hall, widely regarded as the most beautiful colonial building in the city.
• A visit to the War Remnants Museum, which provides insights into the First Indochina War and the Vietnam War. The museum showcases compelling visuals depicting the futility and devastating effects of the conflicts.

 As the sightseeing tour concludes, you will be dropped off at your hotel, giving you the freedom to explore the city at night.

Depart for the Mekong Delta, a unique region that combines both land and water, situated in the southernmost part of Vietnam.

The Mekong River, originating in the immense Himalayan range, traverses five upstream countries in Southeast Asia (China, Burma, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos) before finally flowing into the Pacific Ocean within Vietnamese territory. This river has sculpted a vast and fertile delta in the southern region of the country, famously known as the "Mekong Delta."

Upon arrival in Ben Tre, a significant town located in the heart of the northern branches of the river, embark on a boat journey along the waterways to reach Mo Cay, a less-visited rural area celebrated for its coconut trade and the production of various coconut-based products like coconuts, coconut threads, and activated coconut charcoal.

You'll have the option of a bike ride or a ride on a Xe loi (motorized cycle) through the lush green island, densely adorned with coconut plantations. This route, away from the hustle and bustle of mass tourism, leads you along narrow paths beneath the shade of coconut trees, creating a particularly picturesque landscape. Make stops at local farms to observe the production of sweets and coconut brooms.

Continue your adventure with a journey in a small rowing boat, meandering through canals lined with water palm trees, providing you with a glimpse into the daily life of the delta's residents. Visit Mr. Van's traditional house and savor local specialties crafted by his wife, including coconut jam, honey tea, and pollen. You'll also have the opportunity to engage with the warm-hearted local population, fostering memorable encounters.

In the afternoon, drive to Giong Trom, passing through coconut plantations and numerous canals that connect to the mighty Mekong River.

Settle into a charming lodge situated on the banks of the Ham Luong River, where you'll have some free time to relax in a serene environment and enjoy the possibility of watching the sunset.

Spend the night at the lodge.

Embark on a bike ride through the heart of coconut country, traversing small shaded paths en route to the island of Oc. This leisurely excursion will immerse you in the daily lives of local residents, providing insights into their craft activities. You'll have the opportunity to visit a small local market and a coconut shelling factory along the way.

In the afternoon, set out on a drive to Tra Vinh, crossing the mighty Mekong's expansive arms, including the Ham Luong and Co Chien rivers. This route treats you to breathtaking vistas of the delta, featuring lush greenery and rural landscapes.

Upon arrival in Tra Vinh, a picturesque town situated downstream of the Mekong, resembling a peninsula, you'll explore the Khmer cultural museum and the Âng Pagoda (also known as Angkor Ajaborey Pagoda). This ancient pagoda, showcasing Khmer architecture, is surrounded by centuries-old trees. Originally built in the 10th century and later restored in 1842, it stands as the oldest pagoda in Trà Vinh, boasting a unique architectural style that harmoniously blends typical Khmer decorations from Vietnam and those of Angkor in Cambodia.

As the afternoon draws to a close, continue your journey to Can Tho, the capital of the delta, located on the right bank of the southern arm of the Mekong.

Spend the night at your hotel.

Rise early and embark on a boat journey along the Mekong. Your destination is the vibrant Cai Rang floating market, a captivating and colorful spectacle where a multitude of boats are laden with fruits, vegetables, and various goods for their lively commercial exchanges. This unique "river trade" offers a glimpse into the distinctive way of life of the Mekong region's inhabitants.

After exploring the Cai Rang floating market, disembark for a visit to the An Binh land market, located just opposite Cai Rang. This visit provides an intriguing opportunity to draw comparisons between the bustling floating market and the more traditional land-based market.

In the afternoon, return to Ho Chi Minh City.

Spend the night at your hotel.

Enjoy a completely free day to rest and make any final purchases or arrangements as needed.

In the evening, you'll be transferred to the airport for your departure flight.

This marks the end of our Vietnam 3-week from north to south with Kampá Tour! We hope you've had a memorable and enriching experience exploring this beautiful country. Safe travels on your journey home!