7-day tour exploring South and North Vietnam

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."

Our first destination is Ben Tre, a local village nestled in the heart of the northern branch of the river. Here, we embark on a boat trip to reach Mo Cay, renowned for its coconut-based products. To explore the area, we have the option of a bike ride or a ride on a Xe Loi (motorized cyclo) on this lush green island, which is generously adorned with coconut plantations. This route takes us away from the heavily touristic areas, guiding us along small paths shaded by coconut palms, creating a picturesque landscape. Along the way, we make stops at local farms to observe the production of sweets and coconut brooms.

The highlight of our trip is a serene journey on a small rowing boat through canals lined with water palm trees, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the daily life of the delta. We then proceed to visit the traditional home of Mr. Van, where we savor local specialties crafted by his wife, including coconut jam, honey tea, and pollen, all while engaging in conversations with the local residents. Lunch at a local restaurant by the Cai Cam River (at your own expense).

After our Mekong Delta exploration, we make our way back to Ho Chi Minh City.

Morning:

Explore the underground Cu Chi Tunnels, a historic battlefield from the Indochina War located on the outskirts of the city. Upon arrival, descend into the subterranean world of tunnels stretching over 200 kilometers. These tunnels, with a width of 70 cm and a height of 90 cm, lead to various meeting rooms, kitchens, and even hospitals.

At noon, you'll enjoy a local restaurant lunch before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.

Afternoon:

• Keep your energy up as you embark on a half-day city tour, visiting the city's must-see attractions.
• Your first stop is the Independence Palace, where the Vietnamese Revolutionary Army achieved victory in 1975. 
• Your next destination is Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. These landmarks are prime examples of French architecture in the city.
• Continue your tour with 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.

NOTE: The Notre Dame Cathedral is currently undergoing renovations until 2027. You may be taken to visit the surrounding areas, such as the street book.

Fly to Hanoi capital.

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.

Return to Hanoi by the end of the day and spend the night at the hotel.

For a shorter drive, there's an option to stay in Ninh Binh on this day and spend the night there (without returning to Hanoi during the day). Then, you can depart for Halong Bay the following morning with the guide and private car. Please contact us for this option.

Part of the Gulf of Tonkin (Pacific Ocean), Halong Bay is a vast area comprised of thousands of limestone karsts rising from the sea. A cruise aboard a junk boat in this bay is a must during any trip to Vietnam.

Departure for Halong – the most beautiful bay in Vietnam, one of the most magical landscapes in Asia. Boarding upon arrival aboard a traditional junk. Welcome by the crew then departure for a magnificent cruise on the bay. Visit Bai Tu Long (northern part of Halong Bay):

• Admire the picturesque islands and islets with various shapes (sail, dog, rooster, incense, etc.).
• Explore the splendid caves of Halong Bay, including Thien Canh Son, housing stalagmites and stalactites dating back thousands of years.
• Continue the cruise to Cap La, where you can enjoy a kayak ride and swim in the sublime waters of the bay (weather permitting).
• In the late afternoon, relax on the upper deck of the junk.

Lunch and dinner on board the junk.

Enjoy a free evening for personal rest and relaxation, which can include card games or night fishing.

Spend the night on board.

Wake up at dawn to savor a moment of unparalleled beauty: witness the first rays of sun peering over the countless limestone karsts of the bay and partake in a Tai Chi session on the terrace.

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

Hanoi city tour:

• Lake of the Restored Sword with the temple of Mount Jade, the Turtle Islet, in the heart of Hanoi.
• Explore the Hanoi Old Quarter with 36 corporation streets, where you can stroll through craft streets bearing the name of the goods that were produced and sold there. Don't forget to stop at Ma May Street and visit an old 'Tube' house, a characteristic feature of traditional Hanoi architecture.

• This Old Quarter is located in the heart of Hanoi and is full of old houses, temples, bustling markets, artisan shops, and traditional restaurants. It is an emblematic place that testifies to the history and culture of the Vietnamese capital.

  Discover the colonial heritage with French concessions: take a cycle rickshaw ride through the city to visit the Grand Théâtre, the Métropole hotel, the state bank, the Central Post Office… End your day with a relaxing night at the hotel

• 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.

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.

Enjoy some free time at your leisure until it's time for your transfer to the airport for your return flight.

This marks the conclusion of our services for this 7-day Vietnam tour!