Discover the natural beauty and fascinating culture of Vietnam on this 12-day guided tour
What better way to explore Vietnam then on this guided tour that captures the best of the Natural beauty and cultural experiences in Vietnam. You’ll discover Vietnam’s natural treasures and best kept secrets on this guided tour.
Paddle your way through the natural limestone cliffs in Halong Bay and experience the best of local Vietnamese life on an exhilarating vintage vespa tour in Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital city. Climb Mango Mountain and camp in the Tu Lan Valley, one of Vietnam’s top hidden treasures.
Swim to underground waterfalls and challenge your sense of adventure with deep mountain caving in the Tu Lan Valley Cave System, then relax with in the beach city of Hoi An. Learn to throw a fishing net, cycle to quaint villages and enjoy a Vietnamese cooking class with a local family. Keep an eye out for crocodiles, bats and nocturnal wildlife as you climb a dormant volcano to Bat Cave, then enjoy a challenging hike in Cat Tien National Park before heading home from south Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City.
Highlights Of Vietnam Adventure Tour
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Vietnam Adventure Tour Itinerary
Day 1 Welcome to Hanoi
Chao Ban! You’ll be met on arrival in Hanoi and introduced to your friendly tour guide, then transferred to your hotel. The rest of today is at your leisure, so you may like to set out to explore the surrounding area, or simply relax after your flight.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Hanoi
Distance: None
Meals: None
Day 2 Cruising in Halong Bay
This morning sees you taking a two-hour luxurious limousine transfer to Taun Chau Marina, where you’ll board your boat to explore the incredible Halong Bay. After a quick safety briefing, it’s time to set sail through the towering limestone cliffs of Halong Bay. Discover secret coves and hidden bays as you cruise through dramatic scenery and unspoiled natural treasures.
After a delicious Vietnamese fusion lunch, you’ll drop anchor in the Dark and Light Grotto Archipelago for an afternoon of slow rowing in a traditional bamboo boat. Explore the seemingly endless stalagmites in untouched caves, keep a look out for sea creatures in the jade waters and take in the spectacular scenery at hidden lagoons. Later, enjoy a swim or some kayaking in Lan Ha Bay, home to approximately 400 islands. This is a quieter part of Halong Bay, allowing you to move off the beaten track to enjoy the crystal-clear waters in a quieter setting.
To end the day you will enjoy a cooking demonstration onboard, then sit back to watch the sunset with new friends over happy hour! Optional massages are also available. Your day concludes with a limousine transfer back to your hotel in Hanoi.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Hanoi
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3 Discover Hanoi by Vintage Vespa
Your guide will collect you from your hotel for an exhilarating vintage Vespa tour! Hanoi is known for its busy streets and tiny lanes, and there is no better way to experience it like a true local than winding your way through the city with the wind in your hair. Discover top landmarks, learn of Vietnams unique culture and visit a local neighbourhood where a 150-year-old train track passes through the tiny homes of those who live a mere metre from the track.
Stop for a refreshing Bia Hoi, a type of beer, then take a short boat transfer to West Lake and continue your journey through the labyrinth of alleys to Huu Tiep Lake. You’ll visit a local family in their home to hear first-hand stories from a Vietnamese war veteran, visit the crash site of the aircraft that was shot down in 1972, enjoy lunch in a local restaurant and sample traditional egg coffee. After lunch, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Dong Hoi.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Dong Hoi
Distance: None
Meals: Lunch
Day 4 Trekking to Tu Lan Valley
This morning you have an early start. Your guide will meet you at your hotel and transfer you to the village of Tan Hoa. Walk through 2.5km of sweeping fields as you make your way to the Rao Nan River and Rat Cave. Your trek begins with a 300-metre adventure through Rat Cave’s magnificent stalagmites, followed by an outdoor picnic lunch at a beautiful riverside setting. After lunch it’s a steep climb up Lom Com Mountain, and onwards to Mango Peak and Mango Mountain. Today’s trek is characterized by dramatic scenery, underground waterfalls and rolling mountain peaks.
The 7km trek concludes at a simple campsite in Tu Lan Valley, where you can reward yourself with a splash in the local waterfall, and a well-deserved dinner beside the evening campfire.
Overnight Location: Campsite in Tu Lan valley
Distance: 7 km
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 Swim through the Tu Lan Cave System
Wake to the peaceful sounds of nature and enjoy a tasty breakfast in the great outdoors. This morning you’ll swim directly into Ken Cave, the longest in the Tu Lan cave system known for dark pockets and hidden pools. Test your nerve and travel into the unknown, then head back to camp for a picnic.
After lunch you’ll set off once more on a spectacular caving adventure. Swim 200 metres into Tu Lan Cave where your journey of exploration through 5km of intricate caving network will challenge your strength and push your sense of daring to new heights. You’ll be swimming, trekking, boulder hopping and climbing your way to your next campsite located inside a cave in To Mo Valley, deep in the Vietnamese jungle. A truly unique experience!
Overnight Location: Campsite in To Mo valley
Distance: 5km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 Exploring Song Oxalis Cave
You’ll enjoy an early breakfast at camp before a final day exploring the unique Tu Lan cave system. This morning you visit Song Oxalis Cave – the prize in this seemingly endless network of spectacular underground scenery. Traverse through 5km of tranquil underground lakes, pools of unexpected light and cathedrals of jagged rock. After a quick snack, swim 100 metres upstream, where a dry tunnel and a ladder climb takes you to the surface at Hung Ton.
The day concludes with a beautiful drive back to Tan Hoa, where a cold drink and a warm shower are a welcome treat before transferring to your hotel in Dong Hoi in time for dinner.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Dong Hoi
Distance: 5km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 7 Train Journey from Dong Hoi to Danang, and Hoi An
Today you take a relaxing train journey to Danang, and on to the coastal town of Hoi An. Train travel in Vietnam is a wonderful way to view the everchanging countryside and observe everyday life in Vietnam. You’ll never run out of interesting things to see from the train window on this fascinating journey!
On arrival in Danang you’ll be transferred to your hotel in the charming city of Hoi An. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure with a bike ride to the beach or a discovery walk through the city.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Hoi An
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast
Day 8 Fishing, Cycling and Cooking in Hoi An
Your guide will meet you at your hotel for a tranquil boat trip to Cam Nam fishing village. Learn to throw a fishing net like a true local, then make your way to the water coconut forest in Bay Mau to catch field crabs, where you’ll also discover more about the revolutionary base used here during the Vietnamese war. Later, enjoy a gentle cycle through quaint countryside villages to the Tra Que Vegetable Village. Your lunch today is at a family home, where you can learn to cook a delicious meal to share with your hosts as you listen to authentic stories.
After lunch, make your way back to your hotel in Hoi An to spend the rest of the day at your leisure.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Hoi An
Distance: None
Meals: Lunch
Day 9 Onwards to Ho Chi Min City
You’ll be transferred from your hotel in Hoi An to the nearby city of Danang, where you’ll board your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Once settled into your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City you’ll have the rest of the day at leisure to explore on your own. You may like to visit Independence Palace, the Old Post Office or the War Remnants Memorial.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast
Day 10 Hiking in Cat Tien National Park
Your guide will meet you at your hotel for an early morning departure to the Cat Tien National Park, where lunch will be served. After lunch, you’ll take a short trip in an army jeep to the start of the hiking track. Your walk today is approximately 5km through the old forests to crocodile lake, where you’ll hopefully catch a glimpse of the local wildlife.
Pass through areas of dense bush and wide-open spaces, surrounded by rolling hills. Feeling rejuvenated, return to your jeep and a transfer to a traditional longhouse in Ta Lai, arriving in time for dinner. Your stay this evening is communal, with the opportunity to experience a night in an authentic bamboo lodge.
Overnight Location: Traditional Longhouse in Ta Lai
Distance: 5km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11 Hiking to Bat Cave
Enjoy a delicious breakfast shared with new friends at the longhouse, then head out into the Vietnamese jungle in Cat Tien National Park. Your hike today takes you up a dormant volcano to Bat Cave, the highlight of the trek. Bat Cave is home to over 100 bats, making it an excellent place to experience Vietnam’s nocturnal wildlife. You’ll have some magnificent views on your walk back to the longhouse for lunch.
After lunch you’ll be transferred by road back to Ho Chi Minh City for a last night in Vietnam.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh
Distance: 5km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 12 Heading Home from Ho Chi Minh City
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, then transfer to the airport to meet your international flight home. Depending on your flight time, you may like to enjoy some shopping or head out for a final exploration of the local area before departure.
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast
Vietnam Adventure Tour Prices and Dates
This guided tour in Vietnam is always run as a custom tour for your group only. The price depends on the size of your group.
Prices below are per person sharing a double or a triple room:
- Guided Groups of 4: from $1,975 USD per person*
*-Pricing for this tour depends on the dates of your trip and the size of your group. Please click the booking button below to get the exact pricing for your trip dates.
Book NowAccommodation on Vietnam Adventure Tour
This tour includes a good balance between comfortable 2-3* hotels and serviced camping. Hotels are well located, with comfortable amenities such as lounge decks, hot tubs or swimming facilities available. Serviced camping includes a sleeping bag and full porter service. Rooms are based on based on double occupancy throughout. A supplement for single occupancy is available on request.
Single Rooms and Solo Travelers
You can pay a supplement of $230 USD to have a private room in a hotel while traveling with your group.
Hotels on Standard Tour
Hotel Hanoi Boutique Hotel & Spa, Hanoi
Stay in a lovely boutique hotel in the very heart of Hanoi city within walking distance to many beautiful monuments.
Hotel in Dong Hoi
The exact hotels you’ll stay in will be confirmed upon booking, but expect a nice locally-run hotel.
Campsites in Tu Lan and To Mo valleys
Camping in Vietnamese wilderness is an unforgettable experience and a must-do for every trekking lover!
Hotel in Dong Hoi
The exact hotels you’ll stay in will be confirmed upon booking, but expect a nice locally-run hotel.
Betel Garden Homestay, Hoi An
Say in a beautiful complex of Betel Garden. Surround yourself with beautiful lush gardens, beautiful villas and stunning views!
Sunland Hotel in Ho Chi Minh
This hotel has all the conveniences that you might need while staying in Ho Chi Minh. From nice rooms, to complimentary wi-fi and a nice pool area.
Traditional Longhouse in Ta Lai
Experience a traditional Ma style bamboo longhouse. Each longhouse sleeps up to 30 guests, with comfortable communal areas and a net curtain for privacy.
Sunland Hotel in Ho Chi Minh
This hotel has all the conveniences that you might need while staying in Ho Chi Minh. From nice rooms, to complimentary wi-fi and a nice pool area.
What’s included in Vietnam Adventure Tour?
Meals
8 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 3 dinners are included.
The food varies between Vietnamese meals and includes picnic lunches. If you have any allergies, special requests or if you are on a special diet please let us know. We will arrange it for you in advance.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 11 nights along the tour.
Transportation during the Tour
Transportation is included for you and your luggage.
Also Included
- English speaking tour guide
- Porters for your luggage during the trek
- Camping gear during provided during trekking days:
-
- helmet
- trekking boots (sizes 38-46)
- headlight
- life jacket
- sleeping bag
- water container
- first aid kit
- cooking equipment
- all food and snacks
- trekking poles (available upon request)
Not included
- Getting to and from starting and ending points of the tour
- Insurance
- Personal expenses
- Anything not stated as ‘included’
- Gratuities
Optional Extras
- Additional night in Hanoi before the tour
- Additional night in Ho Chi Minh after the tour
Frequently Asked Questions about Vietnam Adventure Tour
Footprint Vietnam is a boutique tour operator running adventure-based tours in Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. Footprint have been showing the best of adventure, culture and food since 2001, and have been featured in Frommers, Lonely Planet and Footprint Guides.
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