Welcome to Vietnam!

Your Slow & Authentic Vietnam journey begins upon arrival in Hanoi, Vietnam's historic capital.

Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, meet your driver for a private transfer to your hotel.

After checking in, the remainder of the day is yours to relax following your international journey.

There are no scheduled sightseeing activities today, allowing you to settle in at your own pace and prepare for the experiences ahead.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

Meals: At own arrangement

Historic Landmarks & Cultural Discovery

After breakfast, meet your local guide and begin exploring Hanoi's rich historical and cultural heritage.

Ho Chi Minh Complex

Begin with a visit to the historic Ho Chi Minh Complex, including the area around the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House and the iconic One Pillar Pagoda.

Learn about Vietnam's modern history and the significance of these important national landmarks.

Temple of Literature

Continue to the Temple of Literature, established in 1070 and recognised as Vietnam's first national university.

Admire its traditional architecture, peaceful courtyards and Confucian heritage.

Hoa Lo Prison

Following lunch at a local restaurant, visit Hoa Lo Prison, a historic site offering insight into Vietnam's French colonial period and wartime history.

Hoan Kiem Lake & Hanoi Old Quarter

Explore the picturesque surroundings of Hoan Kiem Lake before wandering through the lively streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter.

Discover traditional shopfronts, narrow streets and bustling neighbourhoods that reflect the character of the capital.

Hanoi Train Street

Conclude the day's sightseeing with a visit to Hanoi Train Street, known for its railway tracks passing through a narrow residential neighbourhood.

Access is subject to local safety regulations and restrictions. Drinks are at your own expense.

Return to the hotel for the evening.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

Meals

• Breakfast: Hotel breakfast

• Lunch: Local restaurant

Mountain Landscapes & Traditional Village Life

After an early breakfast, depart Hanoi for the scenic countryside of Pu Luong, a destination known for its breathtaking rice terraces, peaceful valleys and traditional rural communities.

Travel through picturesque mountain scenery, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes along the way.

Arrival in Pu Luong

Upon arrival, enjoy lunch before beginning your exploration of the surrounding countryside.

Discover Local Village Life

In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walk through the villages and farmland in the hills surrounding your accommodation.

Pass working rice fields and traditional homes while observing daily life in this beautiful rural setting.

Meet local residents and learn about their customs, agricultural practices and connection to the surrounding landscape.

After the excursion, return to your accommodation and enjoy time to relax.

Accommodation: Hotel or retreat in Pu Luong

Meals

• Breakfast: Hotel breakfast or breakfast box

• Lunch: Included in Pu Luong

Uoi, Lan & Hieu Villages – Countryside Walking & Cycling

Today offers an opportunity to explore the tranquil landscapes and traditional village communities of Pu Luong.

Terraced Rice Fields & Uoi Village

After breakfast, begin with a gentle walk down into a beautiful valley surrounded by terraced rice fields and lush vegetation.

Follow scenic pathways towards Uoi Village, nestled beneath a towering mountain.

Enjoy panoramic views of the village and surrounding countryside before descending to a local home for a short rest.

Countryside Cycling & Traditional Handicrafts

Continue by bicycle along peaceful village paths, passing rice paddies, bridges and traditional homes.

Enjoy the picturesque rural scenery as you travel through the countryside.

If time permits and a local family is available, discover the traditional craft of brocade weaving and learn about its cultural significance.

Hieu Village & Hieu Waterfall

Cycle towards Hieu Village, a beautiful rural community surrounded by lush mountain landscapes.

Visit Hieu Waterfall and take in the peaceful natural scenery.

Following the excursion, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Return to your accommodation in the afternoon, with time to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Accommodation: Hotel or retreat in Pu Luong

Meals

• Breakfast: Hotel breakfast

• Lunch: Local restaurant

Please note: The brocade-weaving visit is subject to local family availability.

Scenic Valley Walks & Rural Discovery

After breakfast, travel a short distance to Dong Dieng Village, the starting point for today's countryside walk.

Dong Dieng Village & Pu Luong Valley

Descend into one of Pu Luong's picturesque valleys, surrounded by magnificent mountains, lush rice terraces and traditional rural communities.

Follow winding pathways through the countryside, enjoying panoramic views of rice fields and peaceful villages.

Along the way, pass traditional homes and observe the daily activities of local residents.

Where arrangements allow, visit a local family to learn more about their customs, culture and way of life.

Journey to Ninh Binh

After the walk, return to your accommodation to check out and enjoy lunch.

Continue by road to Ninh Binh, a region celebrated for its dramatic limestone formations, winding waterways and historical landmarks.

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Accommodation: Hotel in Ninh Binh

Meals

• Breakfast: Hotel breakfast

• Lunch: Included in Pu Luong

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Tam Coc & Mua Cave

After breakfast, meet your guide for a day exploring the remarkable historical and natural attractions of Ninh Binh.

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Begin with a visit to Hoa Lu, Vietnam's ancient capital during the Dinh and Early Le dynasties.

Surrounded by dramatic limestone mountains, this historic site offers insight into the country's early royal heritage.

Explore the temples dedicated to King Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh, two important figures in Vietnam's history.

Tam Coc Sampan Boat Journey

Continue to Tam Coc Wharf, where you will board a traditional sampan boat rowed by a local boat operator.

Enjoy a peaceful journey along the Ngo Dong River, passing towering limestone formations, lush rice fields and three natural caves.

Admire the magnificent countryside scenery and experience the gentle rhythm of rural life in Ninh Binh.

Following the boat excursion, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Mua Cave & Dragon Peak

In the afternoon, continue to Mua Cave, famous for its spectacular Dragon Peak viewpoint.

For those wishing to reach the summit, a climb of approximately 500 steps leads towards the top of Lying Dragon Mountain.

From the viewpoint, admire breathtaking panoramic scenery over Tam Coc, with its winding river, limestone peaks and surrounding countryside.

Return to your hotel in the afternoon.

Accommodation: Hotel in Ninh Binh

Meals

• Breakfast: Hotel breakfast

• Lunch: Local restaurant

Traveller Tip: The Dragon Peak viewpoint involves a steep climb of approximately 500 steps. Travellers should consider their comfort and physical ability before attempting the ascent.

Cap La Island, Limestone Landscapes & Overnight Cruise

After breakfast, depart for Bai Tu Long Bay, a beautiful coastal destination known for its peaceful waters and dramatic limestone scenery.

Arrive at Sunworld International Harbor and transfer by tender to your overnight cruise.

Upon boarding, enjoy a welcome drink, a safety briefing and check-in to your cabin.

Cruising Through Bai Tu Long Bay

Enjoy a Vietnamese lunch on board as the cruise begins sailing through the magnificent landscapes of Bai Tu Long Bay.

Admire the surrounding limestone islands and scenic coastal formations as the vessel travels towards the Cap La area.

Cap La Kayaking Experience

In the afternoon, enjoy kayaking among the spectacular limestone islands and islets.

Depending on suitable conditions, opportunities for swimming, sunbathing and relaxation may also be available.

Sunset & Vietnamese Cooking Experience

Return to the cruise and relax on the sundeck as the vessel continues towards the Cong Do area.

Enjoy the scheduled happy hour activities, subject to weather conditions, before joining an onboard cooking class.

Learn about traditional Vietnamese cuisine and preparation techniques.

Dinner & Evening at Leisure

Enjoy dinner on board before spending the evening at your own pace.

Relax on the sundeck, try squid fishing or enjoy available board games.

The cruise anchors in the bay for the night.

Accommodation: 5-star overnight cruise in Bai Tu Long Bay

Meals

• Breakfast: Hotel breakfast

• Lunch: Onboard cruise

• Dinner: Onboard cruise

Vung Vieng Fishing Village & Journey to Central Vietnam

Begin the morning surrounded by the peaceful beauty of Bai Tu Long Bay.

Morning Tai Chi & Light Breakfast

Start your day with an early Tai Chi session before enjoying a light breakfast on board.

Vung Vieng Fishing Village

Travel by tender towards Vung Vieng Fishing Village for a traditional rowing boat excursion.

Accompanied by a local boat operator, explore the tranquil waterways and learn about the traditional fishing lifestyle of local communities.

Discover a fascinating side of the bay beyond its dramatic natural landscapes.

Return to Harbor

Return to the main cruise for check-out and enjoy brunch as the vessel makes its way back to the harbor.

Disembark and travel towards Hanoi.

Flight to Da Nang

Continue to Noi Bai International Airport for your domestic flight to Da Nang.

Upon arrival, meet your driver and transfer to Hoi An, approximately 40–60 minutes away.

Check in to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

Meals

• Breakfast: Light breakfast on board

• Brunch: Onboard cruise

Please note: The domestic flight from Hanoi to Da Nang is not included in the quoted land-tour package.

Countryside Cycling, Tra Que Cooking Class & Ancient Town

Discover the charm of Hoi An through its peaceful countryside, traditional cuisine and beautifully preserved historic streets.

Hoi An Countryside Cycling

After breakfast, meet your local guide and begin a cycling excursion along quiet village lanes.

Pass rice fields, traditional homes, vegetable gardens and small waterways while observing everyday rural life.

Tra Que Vegetable Village & Cooking Class

Continue to Tra Que Vegetable Village, a traditional farming community known for cultivating fresh herbs and vegetables.

Join a hands-on Vietnamese cooking class and learn about local ingredients, traditional preparation methods and regional flavours.

After the class, enjoy the dishes you have prepared for lunch.

Hoi An Ancient Town

In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walking tour through Hoi An Ancient Town.

Discover historic merchant houses, traditional architecture and beautifully preserved streets.

Visit the area around the Japanese Covered Bridge and a historic assembly hall while learning about Hoi An's past as an important international trading port.

Wander through lantern-lined streets, traditional shops and charming riverside lanes.

Evening at Leisure

Return to your hotel in the late afternoon.

The evening is free for you to explore Hoi An independently, when colourful lanterns illuminate the ancient streets and riverside.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

Meals

• Breakfast: Hotel breakfast

• Lunch: Dishes prepared during the cooking class

Ancient Cham Temples & Cultural Heritage

After breakfast, meet your local guide and depart for My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located approximately 40 kilometres southwest of Hoi An.

My Son Sanctuary

Explore the atmospheric ruins of My Son, once an important religious and political centre of the ancient Champa Kingdom.

Surrounded by green hills and forested mountains, the sanctuary is home to remarkable red-brick temple towers constructed between the 4th and 13th centuries.

Discover the religious beliefs, architectural achievements and cultural heritage of the Cham civilisation.

Learn about the temples' connections to Hindu traditions, particularly the worship of Shiva.

Ancient Temple Complexes

Walk through the historic temple groups and admire their distinctive architectural details.

Enjoy opportunities to photograph the ancient ruins against the beautiful natural landscape.

Traditional Cham Cultural Performance

Experience a traditional Cham cultural performance featuring Apsara-inspired dances and distinctive musical instruments.

Discover another dimension of the region's cultural heritage through music and dance.

Return to Hoi An

Travel back to Hoi An for lunch.

The afternoon is free for your own activities, allowing you time to relax or continue exploring independently.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

Meals

• Breakfast: Hotel breakfast

• Lunch: Local restaurant

Welcome to Southern Vietnam!

After breakfast, transfer from Hoi An to Da Nang Airport for your domestic flight to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's largest and most dynamic metropolis.

Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, meet your driver and transfer to your hotel.

Discover Ho Chi Minh City

Experience a vibrant city where historic landmarks, traditional neighbourhoods and modern developments come together.

After checking in, the remainder of the day is yours to relax or explore the surrounding area independently.

There are no scheduled sightseeing activities today.

Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

Meals

• Breakfast: Hotel breakfast

Please note: The domestic flight from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City is not included in the quoted land-tour package.

Discover Vietnam's Wartime History

After breakfast, meet your local guide and depart for the historic Cu Chi Tunnels.

Cu Chi Tunnels

Explore the extensive underground network that played a significant role during the Vietnam War.

Learn how the tunnels were constructed and used as shelters, supply routes, communication passages and living spaces during wartime.

Wartime History & Underground Life

Discover the history of the tunnel system through informative exhibits, reconstructed facilities and selected accessible sections.

Learn about the challenges faced by those who lived and operated within this remarkable underground network.

Guests may choose whether to enter accessible tunnel sections, depending on their comfort and physical ability.

Return to Ho Chi Minh City

Following the excursion, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the afternoon, with the remainder of the day at leisure.

Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

Meals

• Breakfast: Hotel breakfast

• Lunch: Local restaurant

Riverside Villages & Authentic Mekong Delta Homestay

After breakfast, depart Ho Chi Minh City for an immersive journey into the Mekong Delta, a region known for its peaceful canals, tropical orchards and traditional riverside communities.

Cai Be & Tan Phong Island

Begin your excursion around Cai Be, where you can view the town and its historic church from the river.

Continue towards Tan Phong Island for a traditional rowing boat journey.

Glide through narrow canals beneath the shade of lush vegetation while enjoying the tranquil countryside atmosphere.

Tropical Orchard & Traditional Music

Visit a local garden to sample tropical fruits accompanied by hot tea while listening to traditional Vietnamese music.

Village Cycling & Local Handicrafts

Continue by bicycle along peaceful village paths, passing orchards, traditional homes, schools, churches and pagodas.

Along the way, observe the weaving of dried water hyacinth into useful products such as baskets, bags, hats and wallets.

Travellers who prefer not to cycle may choose to walk, although this will allow less of the village to be explored.

An Binh Island Homestay

Cross the Mekong River towards An Binh Island, where lunch will be served at a local homestay.

After lunch, check in and spend time discovering the surrounding village.

Visit local workshops where traditional products such as rice paper, coconut candy and puffed rice are made.

Sample local sweets accompanied by hot tea.

Family Cooking Experience & Dinner

In the evening, join members of your host family in preparing traditional local dishes.

Enjoy dinner together and experience the warmth of rural Vietnamese hospitality.

Spend the night at the homestay, surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere of the Mekong Delta.

Accommodation: Local homestay on An Binh Island, Vinh Long

Meals

• Breakfast: Hotel breakfast

• Lunch: Local homestay

• Dinner: Home-cooked meal with the host family

Traveller Tip: This overnight experience is a traditional local homestay rather than standard hotel accommodation. Facilities and the level of comfort may differ from those at the hotels used elsewhere on the tour.

Traditional Brick Kilns, Riverside Villages & Local Heritage

Begin the morning with breakfast at your homestay before continuing your exploration of the Mekong Delta.

Floating Fish Farms & Traditional Brick Kilns

Travel by boat through the peaceful waterways, passing floating fish farming facilities along the river.

Visit traditional brick kilns to discover how local craftspeople produce bricks and pottery using clay.

Learn about the region's longstanding connection to the brick-making industry.

Vinh Long Market

Continue to Vinh Long Market, a lively local trading centre where you can experience the atmosphere of everyday riverside life.

Discover stalls selling fresh produce, tropical fruits, seafood and regional products.

The Red Kingdom

Continue your journey to Vinh Long's distinctive Red Kingdom, an area known for its remarkable concentration of traditional brick kilns.

Travel through the My An and Hoa Tinh canals, where numerous historic kilns line the waterways.

Along the way, observe local craft activities, including traditional bamboo weaving.

Depending on local arrangements, you may have the opportunity to explore Hoa Tinh Village by bicycle or on foot.

Discover the historic kilns more closely and learn about the traditional craft practices that shaped the area's identity.

Return to Ho Chi Minh City

Continue along the Long Ho Canal before returning by boat to Vinh Long.

Transfer by road back to Ho Chi Minh City.

After checking in to your hotel, enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure.

Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

Meals

• Breakfast: Homestay breakfast

Optional Experience: Cycling or walking in Hoa Tinh Village, subject to local arrangements

Farewell to Vietnam

Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel.

Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy free time until check-out before transferring by private vehicle to Tan Son Nhat International Airport.

Your 15-day Slow & Authentic Vietnam journey concludes with memories of peaceful rice terraces, traditional villages, ancient heritage sites, beautiful coastal landscapes and meaningful cultural experiences.

End of Tour

Meals

• Breakfast: Hotel breakfast