11 Day Vietnam Explorer History Trekking and Hidden Gems

Duration11 days

Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away

TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted

LanguagesEnglish

Group sizeUp to 20 travelers

Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 11-day journey through Vietnam's most captivating landscapes and cultural treasures, blending adventure, history, and authentic local experiences. Your exploration begins in the misty mountains of Sapa, where you'll trek through breathtaking rice terraces and stay with ethnic communities in Ta Van and Giang Ta Chai villages. Descend to discover the imperial grandeur of Hue, from its majestic citadel to eerie abandoned sites, before immersing yourself in Hoi An's enchanting lantern-lit streets and coconut jungle boat rides. The adventure continues south to Ho Chi Minh City's historic Cu Chi Tunnels, then culminates with the vibrant floating markets of the Mekong Delta. This carefully crafted itinerary takes you beyond typical tourist trails, offering intimate homestays, thrilling cave explorations, and encounters with Vietnam's rich heritage - all while ensuring comfortable transfers and expert local guidance for a seamless travel experience.

What's included

Entrance fee
10 nights in carefully selected home stay in Sapa and 3-star hotels in Hanoi
Lunch
Dinner
Tissues and water on coach
English-speaking local guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
Breakfast
Service charges and government tax

Travel insurance is not covered in the tour price
Vietnam visa fee
International flights (to/from Vietnam)
Domestic Flight Tickets
Additional meals and beverages not specified in the itinerary
Tips for guides and drivers
Personal expenses (shopping, phone calls, extra beverages, etc.)
Christmas, other holidays or New Year's Eve Gala Dinner (if applicable)
Others not mentioned in the itinerary

What to expect

Day 1: Welcome to Vietnam - Hanoi arrival - Airport pickup

Noibai Airport Transfers
Pass by

Welcome to Hanoi!

We’re thrilled to have you here. Upon your arrival at Hanoi Airport, a friendly local driver will be there to greet you with a warm smile and assist you with your transfer to the hotel. Your room will be ready for check-in from 2:00 PM onwards, so you can settle in comfortably.

After check-in, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you please. Whether you choose to relax and unwind after your flight, take a stroll to explore the vibrant neighborhood, or simply enjoy some downtime at the hotel, it’s all up to you. Meals today are on your own, but don’t hesitate to ask us for recommendations to find some great local spots nearby.

Wishing you a restful evening and a wonderful first night in Hanoi!

Day 2: Ninh Binh Adventure – Ninh Binh – Temples & Terraces (Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An Complex) - Group tour (B, L)

Ninh Binh
2h

7:00 AM – Your adventure begins! Our friendly guide will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi, and we’ll set off for Ninh Binh—a scenic 120 km journey through the Vietnamese countryside.

9:00 AM – Time for a quick 20-minute break to stretch your legs, grab a coffee, or snap some photos of the beautiful landscapes along the way.

10:30 AM – Explore the magnificent Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest Buddhist complex in Southeast Asia! Marvel at its impressive records, including the 500 Stone Arhat Statues, a 36-ton bronze bell, and a breathtaking 100-ton Buddha statue.
Bai Dinh Pagoda
2h · Admission ticket included

10:30 AM – Explore the magnificent Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest Buddhist complex in Southeast Asia! Marvel at its impressive records, including the 500 Stone Arhat Statues, a 36-ton bronze bell, and a breathtaking 100-ton Buddha statue.

12:30 PM – Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch featuring local specialties like goat meat, fried rice, and more. Vegetarian options are always available!
Trang An Landscape Complex
2h · Admission ticket included

1:30 PM – 2:00 PM – Discover the stunning Trang An Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2014. Famous for its mesmerizing caves and waterways, this area was even featured in the movie Kong: Skull Island! Hop on a boat and glide through enchanting caves like Sang Cave (Light Cave), Toi Cave (Dark Cave), and Nau Ruou Cave (Cooking Wine Cave), surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil rivers.

4:00 PM – Take a leisurely 45-minute bike ride through the peaceful countryside, getting a glimpse of local village life and the serene beauty of rural Vietnam.

4:45 PM – Hop back on the bus for a comfortable ride back to Hanoi.
Hanoi Old Quarter Vietnam
Pass by

4:45 PM – Hop back on the bus for a comfortable ride back to Hanoi.

7:00 PM – Arrive back in Hanoi, where we’ll drop you off at your hotel or our office, wrapping up an unforgettable day of culture, nature, and adventure!

Day 3: Hanoi to Sapa by Bus and Cultural Trekking through Y Linh Ho, Lao Chai, and Ta Van Villages - Group tour (B, L, D)

Lao Cai
2h

6:00 - 6:30 AM: Meet at the bus station and board our comfortable sleeper bus to begin your Sapa adventure.

7:30 - 11:45 AM: Travel along the highway to Lao Cai, with a rest stop for refreshments and relaxation.
Sapa
2h

11:45 AM - 1:00 PM: Ascend into the mountains toward Sapa, enjoying panoramic views of lush valleys and stunning terraced rice fields.

1:00 PM: Arrive in vibrant Sapa Town, where H'Mong, Dzao, and Tay ethnic communities greet you in their colorful traditional attire.
- Refresh with a welcome drink while your guide outlines the itinerary.
- Enjoy a delicious local Vietnamese lunch featuring regional specialties.
Y Linh Ho
3h · Admission ticket included

2:15 PM: Take a short transfer to Y Linh Ho, then begin your 9 km trek (approx. 3.5 hours) through:
- Golden rice terraces
- The Muong Hoa Stream
- The Black H'mong village of Lao Chai, with breathtaking views of Hoang Lien Son Mountain
- Arrive at Ta Van village, home to the Dzay ethnic minority, by late afternoon.
Ta Van
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5:45 PM
- Check into your homestay and meet your welcoming Dzay family.
- Relax and soak in the serene mountain sunset.
- Optional: Join a cooking session to learn traditional recipes.
Savor a homemade dinner in the cozy family atmosphere.
Evening: Unwind at a local bar (if you wish), mingling with fellow travelers before resting for the night.

Day 4: Medium trek Ta Van – Giang Ta Chai village (B, L, D)

Giang Ta Chai Village
3h · Admission ticket included

8:00 AM: Wake up to a homemade breakfast prepared by your host family, fueling up for another day of adventure.
8:45 AM
- Continue your trek through vibrant rice paddies - perfect for stunning landscape photos.
- Walk through a peaceful bamboo forest
- Stop at a scenic viewpoint overlooking Giang Ta Chai village, home to the Red Dzao ethnic group.
11:00 AM
- Cross the picturesque Giang Ta Chai Bridge to meet your bus.
- Trekking details: ~4 km (about 2 hours) of moderate walking.
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Return to Sapa Town where you'll enjoy:
- A refreshing welcome drink at your hotel
- A delicious Vietnamese lunch
- Time to check-in and freshen up
Cat Cat village
2h · Admission ticket included

2:30 PM: Take a leisurely walk to Cat Cat Village (home of Black H'mong people), nestled in a valley below Fansipan Peak. Your guide will introduce you to:
- Traditional local lifestyles and crafts
- The historic French hydroelectric station
- A charming waterfall - great for photos!
Note: Includes some uphill walking to meet your return transport.
Sapa
Pass by

4:30 PM: Arrive back in Sapa Town.
Enjoy free time to explore before dinner.
Overnight at your hotel with optional evening activities.

Day 5: Leisurely Morning in Sapa – Return to Ha Noi (B, L)

Hanoi Old Quarter Vietnam
Pass by

7:30 AM – 12:00 PM:
- Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. Use this free time to:
- Stroll through the charming streets of Sapa
- Shop for last-minute souvenirs
- Visit the local market
- Complete your hotel check-out by noon
12:30 PM – 1:00 PM:
- Gather for a final group lunch in town. Afterwards, take some personal time to relax before departure.

1:30 PM:
- Meet your group in the hotel lobby and prepare for the journey back to Hanoi.

2:00 PM:
- Board the comfortable bus to Hanoi. There will be two rest stops along the way for you to stretch and refresh.
8:30 PM – 9:00 PM:
- Arrive back in Hanoi. We’ll say our fond farewells at the bus stop, marking the end of your memorable Sapa adventure

Day 6: Hanoi to Da Nang By Air – Flight Excluded (B)

Da Nang
Pass by

Enjoy some free time until our driver arrives at your hotel to take you to the airport for your flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival, our car will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. Your room will be available from 2:00 PM onwards.

Meals today are at your own arrangement.

Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 7: Hai Van Pass & Hue City Explorer - Full Day Adventure (B, L) - Group Tour

Hai Van Pass
2h · Admission ticket included

7:45 AM – 8:15 AM
- Pickup from your hotel in Da Nang. Begin your journey to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam.

8:15 AM – 10:30 AM | Scenic Coastal Drive via Hai Van Pass
- Travel along Vietnam’s most dramatic coastal route – the legendary Hai Van Pass (21 km of breathtaking views).
- Stop at the historic Hai Van Gate for sweeping photo opportunities.
- Continue with a photo stop at Lap An Lagoon, a peaceful saltwater lake framed by mountains.
- Enjoy a break at Lang Co Beach, known for its white sand and crystal-clear waters.
Tomb of Khai Dinh
1h · Admission ticket included

10:45 AM | Khai Dinh Tomb
- Explore the fascinating tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh, where East meets West in a fusion of imperial Vietnamese and European architecture.

12:00 PM | Lunch in Hue
- Dine at a local restaurant and enjoy traditional Hue royal cuisine.
- Don’t miss the famous “Bún bò Huế” – a spicy beef noodle soup.
Thien Mu Pagoda
2h · Admission ticket included

1:00 PM | Imperial Citadel Visit
- Step into history at the UNESCO-listed Imperial City of Hue:
- Ngo Mon Gate – the grand entrance
- Thai Hoa Palace – the emperor’s throne hall
- Nine Dynastic Urns – bronze symbols of royal power
3:00 PM | Thien Mu Pagoda
- Visit Hue’s most iconic pagoda, overlooking the Perfume River. Its seven tiers are steeped in centuries of spiritual tradition.
Da Nang
Pass by

3:45 PM | Return to Da Nang
- Sit back and relax on the drive back through scenic landscapes.

6:00 PM | Hotel Drop-off
- Arrive at your hotel in Da Nang. End of a culturally rich and memorable day.

Day 8: Monkey Mountain & Marble Mountains Explorer with Coconut Forest Boat Tour - Hoi An Adventure (B, L, D) - Group Tour

Ngu Hanh Son
2h

8:00 AM | Hotel Pickup in Da Nang
- Your friendly local guide and driver will meet you at your hotel to begin your adventure.

8:30 AM | Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain
- Ascend to this 693-meter-high national park for sweeping views of the coastline. After that, visit Linh Ung Pagoda, home to:
- The tallest Lady Buddha statue in Southeast Asia (67 meters)
- 21 beautifully crafted Buddha sculptures
- A serene lotus-shaped courtyard overlooking the sea

10:00 AM | Marble Mountains Exploration
- Climb into Am Phu Cave and visit ancient Buddhist pagodas tucked into the marble cliffs.
- Gain insight into Vietnam’s spiritual traditions—Buddhism and Hinduism intertwined.
- Stop by Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village to admire or shop for traditional stone handicrafts.

11:30 AM – 12:00 PM | Local Lunch Experience
- Enjoy a delicious, authentic Vietnamese meal at a handpicked local restaurant.
Cam Thanh
1h

1:00 PM | Cam Thanh Coconut Jungle Adventure
- Hop on a bamboo basket boat to explore the lush water palm forest.
- Try your hand at local fishing techniques like round-net and cast-net fishing.
- Soak in the tranquil beauty of this eco-village setting.
Hoi An Ancient Town
3h · Admission ticket included

2:15 PM | Hoi An Ancient Town Walking Tour
- Wander through the charming streets of this UNESCO World Heritage site:
- Phuc Kien Assembly Hall – a masterpiece of Chinese architecture
- Japanese Covered Bridge – an icon of Hoi An’s multicultural history
- Phung Hung Ancient House – a preserved merchant home
Hoi An Market – a vibrant hub for local crafts and souvenirs
- Discover how Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences blend seamlessly in this old town.
6:00 PM | Lantern Boat Ride on the Hoai River
- Drift down the river in a traditional wooden boat surrounded by glowing lanterns
- Take part in a peaceful flower lantern ceremony
- Enjoy free time exploring the night market and soaking in the magical ambiance

Day 9: Da Nang - Fly to Ho Chi Minh - Flight Excluded (B)

Ho Chi Minh City
Pass by

Enjoy a delicious breakfast before making your way to Danang International airport for a quick flight to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), the largest city in Vietnam. Although a tour guide will not accompany you during the transfer, we will ensure that you're well taken care of.

Once you land, our friendly driver will be waiting for you at the airport. They will assist you with your luggage and transfer you to your hotel for check-in, making sure you arrive safely and comfortably.

Day 10: Day trip to Cu Chi tunnels and Mekong Delta (B, L) - Group tour

Cu Chi Tunnels
4h · Admission ticket included

06:45-07:00 - Morning pickup from your Ho Chi Minh City hotel (Exact time depends on your hotel location)

Morning: Historic Cu Chi Tunnels
07:00-08:30 - Scenic drive to Cu Chi district
08:30-09:00 - Introductory documentary about tunnel construction
09:00-11:30 - Tunnel exploration featuring:
- Underground living quarters (kitchens, bedrooms)
- Military facilities (field hospitals, command centers)
- Hidden trap doors and defensive systems
- War-era snacks: tapioca & herbal tea tasting
11:30-12:30 - Local Vietnamese lunch
Mekong Delta
4h

Afternoon: Mekong Delta Experience

13:00-16:30 - My Tho river adventure:
- Scenic boat cruise on Tien River (Dragon/Unicorn/Phoenix/Tortoise islands)
- Traditional sampan ride through narrow canals
- Village bicycle tour (optional)
- Visit coconut candy workshop
- Seasonal fruit tasting with honey tea
- Southern Vietnamese folk music performance

Evening Return
17:00-19:00 - Comfortable transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City

Day 11: Farewell Vietnam – Until We Meet Again! (B)

Pass by

Enjoy your free time at leisure until it's time for your airport transfer. Our driver will pick you up and take you to the airport for your departure flight. (Please note: no tour guide is provided for this transfer.)
Meals today are at your own arrangement.
End of services.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

1. We will provide you the instructions through e-mail or WhatsApp the day prior the tour.
2. Once reaching our meeting point, kindly look for our tour guide holding a red flag with company logo

End point

1. You will be picked up and transferred to Tan Son Nhat Interntional airport (without guide) for the departure flight.
2. We will provide you the car plate through WhatsApp the day prior the departure.

Pickup details

1. We will provide you the instructions through e-mail or WhatsApp the day prior the tour.
2. Once reaching our meeting point, kindly look for our tour guide holding a red flag with company logo

Additional information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.