Vietnam Essentials - 12 Days
Hanoi - Sapa - Ha Long - Hoi An - HCMC - Mekong Delta
Discover Vietnam - From Mountain Highlands to Emerald Bays & Timeless Traditions
Durations: 12 Days/ 11 Nights
Accommodation: Choice of 3-star, 4-star or 5-star hotels, plus a 5-star overnight cruise
Tour language: English-speaking tour
Meals: 11 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, 1 Brunch and 1 Dinner
Experience the diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage and local traditions of Vietnam on this 12-day journey from Hanoi to the Mekong Delta.
Begin in the historic capital of Hanoi before travelling into the breathtaking highlands of Sapa, where terraced rice fields, traditional villages and the majestic Fansipan Peak await. Continue to the emerald waters of Lan Ha Bay for a memorable overnight cruise among towering limestone islands.
Journey south to the charming town of Hoi An, where lantern-lit streets, countryside cycling, traditional cooking and bamboo basket boat experiences offer a closer look at local life.
Complete your adventure in vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, exploring the historic Cu Chi Tunnels and the peaceful waterways of the Mekong Delta.
Top Trip Features
Northern Vietnam's Mountain Landscapes & Cultural Heritage
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Discover Hanoi's historic landmarks before travelling to the spectacular highlands of Sapa. Walk through traditional villages, admire terraced rice fields and take a scenic cable car journey towards Fansipan Peak, known as the Roof of Indochina.
Luxury Overnight Cruise Through Lan Ha Bay
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Sail through the breathtaking limestone landscapes of Lan Ha Bay on a 5-star overnight cruise. Explore peaceful lagoons by kayak or bamboo boat, join a Vietnamese cooking demonstration and unwind as the sun sets over the emerald waters.
Authentic Local Experiences from Hoi An to the Mekong Delta
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Experience Vietnam's traditional way of life through countryside cycling, a hands-on cooking class, a bamboo basket boat ride and a journey along the Mekong Delta's tranquil waterways, visiting local villages and traditional workshops.
Day by Day Itinerary
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Welcome to Vietnam!
Your journey begins upon arrival in Hanoi, Vietnam's historic capital.
Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, meet your driver for a transfer to your hotel.
After checking in, the remainder of the day is yours to relax after your international journey and prepare for the exciting experiences ahead.
There are no scheduled sightseeing activities today, allowing you to settle in at your own pace.
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
Meals: At own arrangement
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Historic Landmarks & Old Quarter 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 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 national landmarks.
Temple of Literature
Continue to the Temple of Literature, established in the 11th century and recognised as Vietnam's first national university.
Admire its traditional architecture, peaceful courtyards and longstanding connection to Vietnamese education 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 the vibrant atmosphere of the capital's historic neighbourhoods.
Hanoi Train Street
Conclude the day's sightseeing with a visit to Hanoi Train Street, known for its railway tracks running 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
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Muong Hoa Valley & Traditional Highland Villages
After an early breakfast, depart Hanoi for a scenic journey to Sapa, a mountain town in northern Vietnam known for its terraced landscapes and diverse ethnic communities.
Enjoy approximately six hours of travel through the changing countryside and mountainous scenery.
Upon arrival in Sapa, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing into the picturesque Muong Hoa Valley.
Lao Chai Village
Visit Lao Chai Village, home to members of the Black Hmong community.
Walk through the surrounding countryside, admire the terraced rice fields and learn about traditional village life.
Ta Van Village
Continue to Ta Van Village, associated with the Giay ethnic community.
Discover traditional homes, local customs and rural livelihoods while enjoying opportunities to photograph the spectacular mountain scenery.
Following the village excursion, return to Sapa town and check in to your hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel in Sapa
Meals
Breakfast: Hotel breakfast or breakfast box
Lunch: Local restaurant
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Journey to the Roof of Indochina
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and begin your excursion to Fansipan Peak.
Fansipan Cable Car Experience
Travel to the cable car station and board the scenic cable car for a journey above Sapa's dramatic mountain landscapes.
Admire panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, forests and mountain slopes as you ascend.
Fansipan Summit & Spiritual Landmarks
Upon reaching the upper mountain area, explore the spiritual landmarks and traditional pagodas surrounded by magnificent highland scenery.
Travellers wishing to reach the summit may climb approximately 600 steps to the peak of Fansipan, often referred to as the Roof of Indochina.
An optional mountain train service towards the summit is available at an additional cost.
Following the excursion, descend by cable car and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Sapa.
Return to Hanoi
In the afternoon, depart Sapa for your return journey to Hanoi.
Arrive in the evening and check in to your hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
Meals
Breakfast: Hotel breakfast
Lunch: Local restaurant
Optional Experience: Fansipan summit mountain train – additional charge
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Emerald Waters & Limestone Island Landscapes
After breakfast, depart Hanoi for Ha Long Bay, one of Vietnam's most celebrated natural destinations.
Arrive at Tuan Chau Port and transfer to your overnight cruise.
Upon boarding, enjoy a welcome drink and an introduction to the cruise facilities and planned activities.
Cruising Through Lan Ha Bay
Enjoy lunch on board as the cruise begins sailing through the spectacular scenery of Lan Ha Bay.
Admire thousands of limestone formations rising from the emerald waters, including distinctive islands and impressive rocky cliffs.
Dark & Bright Cave
In the afternoon, explore the scenic Dark & Bright Cave area.
Discover peaceful lagoons surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush greenery by kayak or traditional bamboo boat.
Sunset & Vietnamese Cooking Class
Return to the cruise and relax on the sundeck as the sun sets over the bay.
Join an onboard Vietnamese cooking demonstration and learn how to prepare traditional fried spring rolls.
Guests can also enjoy the cruise's scheduled sunset activities and available drink promotions.
Dinner & Evening Activities
Enjoy dinner on board before spending the evening at leisure.
Relax on the sundeck, take in the peaceful night scenery or participate in activities such as squid fishing.
The cruise anchors in a tranquil area of the bay for the night.
Accommodation: 5-star overnight cruise in Lan Ha Bay
Meals
Breakfast: Hotel breakfast
Lunch: Onboard cruise
Dinner: Onboard cruise
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Morning Cruise & Journey to Central Vietnam
Begin the morning surrounded by the tranquil scenery of Lan Ha Bay.
Morning Tai Chi & Light Breakfast
Depending on weather conditions, join an early morning Tai Chi session on the sundeck.
Enjoy a light breakfast while taking in the peaceful bay atmosphere.
Tra Bau Kayaking Experience
Continue to the Tra Bau area, where you can enjoy kayaking or swimming in the calm waters surrounded by beautiful limestone scenery.
Return to the cruise for check-out and an early brunch before disembarking at Tuan Chau Marina.
Flight to Da Nang
Travel to Noi Bai International Airport for your domestic flight to Da Nang.
Upon arrival, meet your driver and continue by road to Hoi An, approximately 40–60 minutes away.
Check in to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of 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.
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Countryside Cycling, Tra Que Cooking Class & Ancient Town
Today offers an opportunity to discover the charm of Hoi An through its peaceful countryside, local cuisine and 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, learning 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 the town's 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
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Cam Thanh Coconut Forest & Bamboo Basket Boat Experience
After breakfast, travel to Cam Thanh Coconut Village, a peaceful rural area known for its winding waterways and water coconut forest.
Traditional Bamboo Basket Boat
Board a traditional round bamboo basket boat for a relaxing journey through the narrow waterways, accompanied by a local boat operator.
Glide through the coconut forest while admiring the natural surroundings and observing everyday life along the river.
Traditional Fishing Demonstrations
Learn about local fishing practices and how generations of fishermen have adapted their livelihoods to the river environment.
Observe demonstrations of traditional fishing techniques, including casting fishing nets.
Watch skilled local boat operators demonstrate their distinctive basket boat spinning techniques.
Afternoon at Leisure
Return to Hoi An for lunch before transferring back to your hotel.
Enjoy the afternoon at your own pace, whether you prefer relaxing or continuing to explore the local area independently.
Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An
Meals
Breakfast: Hotel breakfast
Lunch: Local restaurant
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Welcome to Southern Vietnam
After breakfast, transfer from Hoi An to Da Nang Airport for your domestic flight to Ho Chi Minh City.
Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, meet your driver and transfer to your hotel.
Discover Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnam's largest city offers an energetic combination of historic landmarks, modern developments, bustling streets and traditional neighbourhoods.
After checking in, the remainder of the day is free for you 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.
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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 the 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
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River Life, Tropical Orchards & Traditional Villages
After breakfast, depart Ho Chi Minh City for a full-day excursion to the Mekong Delta, a region celebrated for its peaceful canals, tropical landscapes and traditional riverside communities.
Cai Be Orchard Experience
Begin your visit in Cai Be, where you can explore a local orchard and sample fresh tropical fruits.
Enjoy traditional Vietnamese music in a garden setting while learning about the region's rural lifestyle.
Mekong River & Countryside Waterways
Continue aboard a small rowing boat through narrow canals surrounded by lush vegetation.
Experience the slower pace of life along the waterways before crossing the Mekong River towards An Binh Island.
An Binh Island & Local Lunch
Visit a local home and enjoy lunch before continuing your exploration of the surrounding village.
Traditional Village Workshops
Discover local workshops where traditional products such as rice paper, coconut candy and puffed rice are made.
Sample local sweets accompanied by a cup of hot tea.
Optional Village Cycling
Depending on local arrangements, guests may have the opportunity to cycle along peaceful village paths, passing orchards, traditional houses, schools and places of worship.
Traditional Brick Kilns
Continue to a local brick kiln to observe traditional clay and brick production techniques.
The river journey concludes in Vinh Long before returning to Ho Chi Minh City by road.
Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City
Meals
Breakfast: Hotel breakfast
Lunch: Local meal
Optional Experience: Village cycling, subject to local arrangements
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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 12-day journey concludes with memories of Vietnam's historic cities, dramatic mountain scenery, tranquil coastal landscapes, traditional villages and vibrant local culture.
Meals
Breakfast: Hotel breakfast
Important Information
2026 - 2027 Departure Dates
Private-group departures – Dates on request
Departure dates are arranged according to traveller enquiries and are subject to availability and confirmation.
Please contact EC Travel with your preferred travel dates, number of travellers and accommodation requirements.
Important Tour Information
Deposit & Payment: Full payment is required at booking.
Changes: After payment, no changes allowed.
Minimum Booking: A minimum of 2 travellers is required.
Tour Pricing:
| Group Size | 3-Star | 4-Star | 5-Star |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 travellers | $1,990 | $2,150 | $2,670 |
| 3–4 travellers | $1,810 | $1,970 | $2,470 |
| 5–9 travellers | $1,700 | $1,870 | $2,350 |
| 10+ travellers | Enquire | Enquire | Enquire |
All prices are in AUD per person, based on twin/double room sharing. All accommodation options include one night aboard a 5-star cruise.
Single-room supplements: 3-Star +$650 | 4-Star +$770 | 5-Star +$1,250.
For groups of 10 or more travellers, please contact EC Travel for a personalised quotation.
Domestic and international flights are excluded. Final prices are subject to confirmation.
Group & Transfer Arrangements
The tour is based on private-group arrangements.
Ground transportation and guide arrangements may vary according to group size.
For smaller groups, selected intercity transfers may operate by shared limousine without a private guide. Larger groups may receive private vehicle transfers and additional guide services.
Final arrangements will be confirmed according to the group size and booking details.
Domestic Flights
Two domestic flight segments are required:
Hanoi → Da Nang
Da Nang → Ho Chi Minh City
These flights are not included in the supplier's quoted land-tour package.
Airfares will be quoted separately based on availability at the time of enquiry or booking.
Hotel Arrangements
Specific hotel names will be confirmed following booking confirmation and deposit.
Standard hotel check-in is approximately 2:00 pm, and check-out is approximately 12:00 noon.
Optional Experiences
Fansipan summit mountain train – additional charge
Village cycling in the Mekong Delta – subject to local arrangements
Other personal or optional activities – at guests' own expense
Prices and availability for optional experiences will be confirmed upon enquiry.
What’s Included
Your tour package includes:
11 nights' accommodation in total
10 nights' hotel accommodation in the selected 3-star, 4-star or 5-star category
1 night aboard a 5-star cruise in Lan Ha Bay
Daily breakfast
Lunches, brunch and dinner as specified in the itinerary
Airport and ground transfers as specified in the itinerary
Air-conditioned transportation, with arrangements depending on group size
English-speaking local guide services on guided sightseeing days
Onboard cruise guide services
Admission to attractions included in the itinerary
Round-trip Fansipan cable car ticket
Lan Ha Bay cruise activities included in the planned program
Hoi An countryside cycling and Tra Que cooking class
Cam Thanh bamboo basket boat experience
Mekong Delta sightseeing and boat excursions as specified
One bottle of mineral water per person per tour day
What’s Not Included
The following are not included in the tour price:
International airfare
Domestic flight from Hanoi to Da Nang
Domestic flight from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnam visa fees, where applicable
Travel insurance
Driver and local guide gratuities
Optional Fansipan mountain train
Additional food and beverages not specified
Drinks purchased at Hanoi Train Street
Personal expenses
Laundry
Shopping
Public holiday surcharges
Additional services and activities not listed as included
Terms and Conditions
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Tour prices are quoted per person in Australian dollars, based on the selected accommodation category and private-group size.
The standard quoted arrangement is based on two guests sharing a twin or double room.
A single-room supplement applies to travellers requesting their own room.
Final prices are subject to availability and confirmation at the time of booking.
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Child rates, accommodation arrangements and bed-sharing conditions are subject to confirmation.
Travellers booking with children should advise EC Travel of each child's age when requesting a quotation.
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This itinerary includes countryside walking, cycling, boat excursions, cable car travel and visits to historic attractions.
The Fansipan excursion includes an optional climb of approximately 600 steps to reach the summit area.
The Cu Chi Tunnels experience may involve confined underground spaces, although entering accessible tunnel sections is optional.
Travellers with limited mobility or specific accessibility needs should consult EC Travel before booking to confirm whether suitable arrangements can be made.
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Vehicle types and transfer arrangements depend on the number of travellers.
Certain airport and intercity transfers may operate without a guide or use shared limousine services for smaller groups.
Private transportation will be provided where specified in the confirmed itinerary.
Transportation arrangements may be adjusted where operationally necessary.
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The published itinerary represents the planned travel arrangements.
The order of sightseeing, transportation, accommodation or activities may change due to:
Weather conditions
Traffic or road conditions
Attraction schedules
Local safety regulations
Flight schedule changes
Cruise operating conditions
Government restrictions
Other circumstances beyond the operator's control
Reasonable efforts will be made to preserve the main sightseeing experiences and overall tour arrangements.
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Domestic flights between Hanoi and Da Nang, and between Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City are not included in the quoted land-tour package.
Domestic airfares will be quoted separately based on airline availability and applicable fares.
Flight schedules and baggage allowances are subject to the relevant airline's conditions.
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The tour includes one night aboard a 5-star cruise.
Cruise itineraries, sailing routes, kayaking, swimming and other onboard activities may be adjusted due to weather, water conditions, safety requirements or operational considerations.
The cruise operator may change the scheduled activities or route where necessary.
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Hotel accommodation is available in 3-star, 4-star and 5-star categories, depending on the selected package.
Specific hotel names will be confirmed after booking confirmation and deposit.
If a planned hotel becomes unavailable, alternative arrangements are subject to supplier confirmation.
Early check-in and late check-out may involve additional charges.
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Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended before departure.
Travellers should consider coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellation, travel delays, lost luggage, personal belongings and unexpected disruptions.
Travel insurance is not included in the tour price.
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Travellers are responsible for ensuring they hold appropriate documentation for international travel, including:
A valid passport
A Vietnam visa or other valid entry permission, where required
Relevant airline and travel documents
Visa and entry requirements may vary depending on nationality and individual circumstances.
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Circumstances beyond the control of the tour operator may include natural disasters, severe weather, political unrest, government restrictions, major transport disruptions or other unexpected events.
Such circumstances may require adjustments to the tour itinerary.
Additional costs arising from unforeseen events may be payable by travellers, subject to the applicable booking terms and circumstances.
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Tour availability, final prices, hotel arrangements, domestic flights and applicable supplements must be confirmed before booking.
Deposit requirements, payment deadlines, cancellation policies and amendment conditions will be provided as part of the booking confirmation process.