Compare Treasures of Vietnam by Intrepid Travel vs Indochina Explorer by Insider Journeys
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
4.5 | Great
|
5 | Excellent
|
| Duration | 8 days | 19 days |
| Price From | $ 1,467 | $ 3,055 |
| Price Per Day | $ 183 | $ 161 |
| Highlights |
|
N/A
|
| Trip Style | Small group tour | N/A |
| Lodging Level | Premium | Standard |
| Physical Level |
|
|
| Travel Themes |
|
N/A |
| Countries Visited | N/A | |
| Cities and Attractions |
|
N/A |
| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | No |
| Activities |
|
N/A |
| Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
| Description |
Discover the spirit of Vietnam on a trip from south to north, taking in all the attractions in between. Explore Vietnam's fast-paced Ho Chi Minh City, wander the ancient streets of Hoi An and bask in the charm of Hanoi. Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, a former Viet Cong stronghold that provides an insight into the resourcefulness and tenacity of the Vietnamese people. Experience Vietnam's beautiful landscapes, the renowned friendliness of the Vietnamese people, and sample local food wherever you go, from street snacks at markets to an included lunch that supports locals. Top it all off with an overnight cruise on Halong Bay and you won't ever want to leave. |
This comprehensive journey takes in the history, culture and natural beauty of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. In historic Cambodia, uncover the museums and monuments of the capital, Phnom Penh, before witnessing the incredible temples of Angkor. Travel from south to north through Vietnam, which reveals bustling cities, sparkling bays, ancient relics and delectable cuisine. In Laos, experience the Asia of yesteryear with its languid pace and welcoming people. |
Day 1 Ho Chi Minh City
Xin chao! Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, a French-infused city with a dynamic atmosphere. If you arrive early, perhaps head to Pham Ngu Lao Street to see the local open-aired market or visit Vinh Nghiem Pagoda. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm where you will meet your tour leader and fellow travellers.
Day 2 Ho Chi Minh City
This morning you’ll tour the famous Cu Chi Tunnels. This former Viet Cong stronghold provides an insight into the resourcefulness and tenacity of the Vietnamese people, as well as underground life during the Vietnam War. Travel back to Ho Chi Minh City to grab some lunch if you wish, before a visit to the Reunification Palace. Formerly known as the Presidential Palace, it was the site of South Vietnam's surrender at the end of the war. Afterwards, you can opt to visit the War Remnants Museum where you’ll see old military equipment including an F5A fighter and a UH1-Huey helicopter, or you may like to head back to your hotel to make plans for your evening.
Day 3 Hoi An
Say goodbye to Ho Chi Minh City and fly to Danang where you’ll travel in a private vehicle to Hoi An, a captivating city where traditional and modern sit side by side. Late this afternoon, you’re in for a culinary treat. Join your leader and head to Tra Que where you will tour a local chef's garden, selecting fresh herbs and vegetables that will form part of your exclusive group dinner. Relax in the peaceful surroundings while your private chef prepares a delicious spread that celebrates his garden's seasonal best.
Day 4 Hoi An
Your leader will take you on a walk around Hoi An’s Old Town today. The city was a major trading port from the 17th century onwards, and has various architectural influences from Europe, China and Vietnam. Today the city is being restored and looks exactly like it did over a century ago. The tour will take you to a historic house, the Japanese Covered Bridge, a Chinese assembly hall and a museum. The rest of the day is free for you to do some optional activities or soak up the ambience of the city. You may like to wander past street stalls selling paintings, woodwork, ceramics, lanterns and much more or get an outfit made by one of Hoi An’s talented tailors who can make beautiful items to order within a few hours.
Day 5 Hanoi
This morning, transfer to the airport and fly to Vietnam’s charming capital of Hanoi. You’ll be taken on a guided half-day tour of Hanoi, visiting major sites such as the Temple of Literature, One Pillar Pagoda and the former residence of Vietnam’s most famous revolutionary, Ho Chi Minh. Stop for lunch at the KOTO cafe, an uplifting project that provides vocational training for disadvantaged young people. This afternoon is yours to explore your way, so ask your leader for their advice and tailor your time to perfection. Food, history, culture – whatever you’re most interested in, your leader will be able to help. You may like to take a stroll around the city’s parks and lakes, or hire a bike and cycle around town for the best view of the city.
Day 6 Halong Bay
Travel by private vehicle to famous Halong Bay, one of Vietnam's most spectacular natural wonders. Once you arrive at the bay, take a long, slow cruise through the area, exploring the beautiful green waters and amazing Surprise Cave. Want to get in the water? You may also have the opportunity to go swimming from Ti Top Island beach. Watch the sunset over the limestone karsts and spend the night on the boat which has comfortable twin-share cabins with air-conditioning and private facilities. There's also a dining room and bar where you’ll enjoy all of your meals, including fresh seafood for lunch and dinner.
Day 7 Hanoi
You may like to get up early and watch the sunrise before you spend a leisurely morning sailing across Halong Bay and back to the port. Sit back and relax on the drive to Hanoi and get ready to shop until you drop at Dong Xuan market or explore the city. Why not relax at a cafe for an egg coffee or stop for a bia hoi (freshly brewed draught beer) at one of the microbars that dot this amazing city? Tonight, you may like to join your group for an optional dinner to celebrate the end of your trip.
Day 8 Hanoi
After breakfast, you are free to leave at any time, as there are no activities planned today. If you would like to spend some more time in Hanoi, we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).
Day 1 : PHNOM PENH (CAMBODIA)O
On arrival in Phnom Penh, transfer to your hotel and meet your fellow travellers and Tour Leader (or local guide).Hotel: Sunway Hotel
Day 2 : PHNOM PENH TOURD
Discover Phnom Penh during a fun cyclo ride exploring the backstreets and highlights. Continue to Tuol Sleng Museum and the Killing Fields memorial at Choeng Ek. In the afternoon, explore the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda.Hotel: Sunway Hotel
Day 3 : PHNOM PENH TO SIEM REAPF
Fly to Siem Reap and venture to Tonle Sap Lake for a boat cruise.Hotel: Somadevi Angkor Hotel & Spa (or similar)
Day 4 : TEMPLES OF ANGKORT
Take a pre-dawn tuk-tuk ride to Angkor Wat's seldom-used East Gate entrance to see the silhouetted central spires at sunrise. See the stone head sculptures of Bayon temple, explore Banteay Srei temple and discover Ta Prohm temple.Hotel: Somadevi Angkor Hotel & Spa (or similar)
Day 5 : SIEM REAP TO SAIGON (VIETNAM)F
Fly from Siem Reap, and enjoy your first insights into Vietnam as you arrive in Saigon. Meet your new group of fellow travellers and Tour Leader (or local guide). Hotel: Northern Hotel (or similar)
Day 6 : CU CHI TUNNELS&
From Saigon, drive to Cu Chi and discover the incredible network of underground tunnels. Wander the streets of Saigon on a walking tour and take in the city's most impressive sites.Hotel: Northern Hotel (or similar)
Day 7 : MEKONG DELTAE
Explore the Mekong Delta to gain insights into local life and enjoy a delicious local lunch.Hotel: Northern Hotel (or similar)
Day 8 : SAIGON TO HUEF
Foundation, a unique enterprise that employs people with disabilities who make souvenirs from 100% recycled materials.Hotel: Hotel Saigon Morin (or similar)
Day 9 : HUE TO HOI ANV
Venture over the Hai Van Pass from Hue to Hoi An and marvel at some of Vietnam's most stunning scenery. Stroll through the streets of Hoi An's old town.Hotel: Hoi An Historic Hotel (or similar)
Day 10 : HOI ANE
Enjoy a free day to do as much or as little as you like in Hoi An.Hotel: Hoi An Historic Hotel (or similar)
Day 11 : HOI AN TO HALONG BAYF
Fly to Haiphong before driving to Halong Bay. Once on board your luxurious private junk boat, cruise impressive Halong Bay while feasting on fresh seafood.Cruise: Overnight boat (or similar)
Day 12 : HALONG BAY TO HANOIW
Wake early to take part in a Tai Chi lesson as the sun rises. Continue exploring the bay before returning to Hanoi to discover the Old Quarter and meet some boisterous locals at a 'Bia Hoi'.Hotel: The Ann Hanoi (or similar)
Day 13 : HANOI CITY TOURD
Discover Hanoi's must-visit sites. Enjoy a farewell group dinner to celebrate your time in Vietnam.Hotel: The Ann Hanoi (or similar)
Day 14 : HANOI TO VIENTIANE (LAOS)F
Fly to Vientiane and transfer to your hotel. In the evening, meet your new group of fellow travellers and Tour Leader (or local guide).Hotel: Mandala Boutique Hotel (or similar)
Day 15 : VIENTIANEE
Enjoy an authentic Lao coffee at a local cafe before discovering Vientiane's main sites. Receive a traditional 'baci' blessing to welcome you to Laos.Hotel: Mandala Boutique Hotel (or similar)
Day 16 : VIENTIANE TO LUANG PRABANGF
Fly to Luang Prabang. Visit the National Museum and Wat Mai temple. In the evening, take part in a cooking demonstration at Tamarind cooking school.Hotel: Sala Prabang (or similar)
Day 17 : PAK OU CAVESB
Begin the day with a steaming-hot noodle breakfast. Walk to Wat Xieng Thong temple before taking a boat trip to Pak Ou Caves.Hotel: Sala Prabang (or similar)
Day 18 : KUANG SI FALLSR
Rise early and be rewarded with the sight of brightly-robed Buddhist monks collecting alms. Explore a lively morning market and travel to Kuang Si Falls. Cook your own lunch before exploring Luang Prabang independently. In the evening, participate in a game of petanque. Enjoy a farewell dinner to celebrate a memorable visit to Laos.Hotel: Sala Prabang (or similar)
Day 19 : LUANG PRABANGT
Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.Phnom Penh Luang Prabang 19 Days
