From Sapa to the Mekong: A Journey Through Vietnam – 12 Days

Embark on an exciting journey from Hanoi to the charming town of Sapa. Our experienced driver and knowledgeable tour guide will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi between 6:30-7:00 am. Enjoy a comfortable break along the way before arriving in Lao Cai City at 10:00 am. Once in Sapa, prepare to be mesmerized by the vibrant traditional costumes of the H’mong, Dzao, and Tay ethnic groups. Upon arrival, receive a warm welcome drink and a detailed briefing about the itinerary. Treat yourself to a delicious lunch featuring authentic Vietnamese cuisine before checking into your hotel. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic downhill hike to Cat Cat village, nestled in the picturesque Muong Hoa Valley. Take in breathtaking views of the valley and the majestic Fansipan, the highest peak in Vietnam and Indochina. Explore the traditional stilt houses of the Black H’mong people, witnessing their intricate weaving, embroidery, and clothes drying techniques. Continue your walk to admire the captivating Cat Cat Waterfall, an ideal spot for capturing memorable photos. As the evening approaches, return to Sapa town for a delightful dinner. Afterward, feel free to wander through the Sapa Market and immerse yourself in the Accommodation Options: Sapa Luxury Hotel - 3-star or similar Chau Long Sapa 2 Hotel - 4-star or similar Pao's Sapa Leisure Hotel - 5-star or similaratmosphere of the town. Spend a comfortable night at your hotel, eagerly anticipating the adventures that await you.

8:00 am - Indulge in a delightful breakfast at the hotel to energize yourself for the day ahead. 9:00 am - Embark on an exhilarating trek from Sapa, immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the mountainous landscapes. Traverse through vibrant rice terraces and be captivated by the charm of Lao Chai village, home to the Black H'mong people. Experience their rich culture and witness their daily way of life. 11:30 am - Explore Ta Van village, inhabited by the Tay minority who have been strongly influenced by Chinese traditions. Absorb the unique blend of cultures before boarding a bus back to Sapa. 2:30 pm - Take some personal time in Sapa to relax and rejuvenate. 3:15 pm - Hop on a comfortable bus for the return journey to Hanoi. 9:15 pm - Arrive in Hanoi, where you will check in to your hotel and spend the night. Accommodation Options: TK-123 Hanoi - 3-star or similar Lenid Hanoi Hotel - 4-star or similar Hotel du Parc Hanoi - 5-star or similar

After a delightful breakfast at your hotel, our friendly guide will pick you up to commence your captivating exploration of Hanoi City. Our first destination is Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hanoi dating back to the 6th century. Marvel at its remarkable architecture and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture it embodies. Next, we will visit the Ho Chi Minh complex, where you can pay homage to the preserved body of Ho Chi Minh himself. Take a leisurely stroll through the serene garden, exploring the two houses where he lived and worked from 1954 to 1969. We will also visit the One Pillar Pagoda, a unique structure dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy. Please note that the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is closed on Mondays and Fridays. If your tour falls on either of these days, we will arrange an alternative itinerary. We will then proceed to the Vietnam Ethnology Museum, where you can gain insights into the diverse cultures of the 54 ethnic groups in Vietnam. However, if your tour falls on a Monday, the museum will be closed, and we will visit the Women's Museum instead. Savor a delectable lunch at our restaurant, relishing the flavors of authentic Vietnamese cuisine. After lunch, our journey continues with a visit to the Temple of Literature, the country's first university established in the 11th century. Delve into Vietnam's ancient educational system and appreciate the historical significance of this landmark. Concluding our city tour, we will visit Hoa Lo Prison, known as the "Hanoi Hilton" to American POWs during the Vietnam War. Originally built by the French colonists, it served as a place of confinement for political prisoners. After an exhilarating day of discovery, you will be transferred back to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy your leisure time and spend a restful night in Hanoi. Accommodation Options: TK-123 Hanoi - 3-star or similar Lenid Hanoi Hotel - 4-star or similar Hotel du Parc Hanoi - 5-star or similar

After a delightful breakfast at your hotel, our private mini-van/bus will pick you up between 8:30 am to 9:00 am to embark on your journey to Halong City. During the scenic 3.5-hour drive, immerse yourself in the picturesque countryside and observe the serene rice paddy life. Upon arrival at the port, you will board your private Chinese Junk boat, a true gem, and set sail through the breathtaking Halong Bay, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Indulge in a delectable seafood lunch served on board. During the cruise, we will explore "the Amazing Cave" and take a refreshing swim in the calm emerald waters of Halong Bay. Further into the journey, we will anchor in a peaceful area where you can enjoy a mesmerizing sunset dinner. Afterward, you can choose to swim in the phosphorescent water, retreat to your cozy cabin, or even slumber under the starry night sky on the top deck, surrounded by the enchantment of Halong Bay. Spend the night on the boat, embracing the captivating beauty of the bay. Accommodation Options: Glory Legend Cruises - 3-star or similar Pelican Cruises - 4-star or similar Paradise Sails Cruises - 5-star or similar

Rise early to witness a captivating sunrise and savor the invigorating sea breeze. Indulge in a delightful breakfast served on board as we leisurely navigate through the mesmerizing seascape of countless islands. Capture the awe-inspiring beauty of the surroundings with your camera. We will make a stop at a floating fishing village, where you can immerse yourself in the tales of the fishermen's daily lives. Lunch will be served on the boat as we cruise back to the Halong City pier. From there, we will return to Hanoi. You will arrive in Hanoi between 3:30 pm to 4:00 pm. A driver from Legend Travel Group will be waiting to transfer you directly to the airport for your flight to Hoi An. Upon arrival in Hoi An, our attentive staff will greet you and escort you to your hotel for check-in. Take some leisure time to explore the enchanting ancient town of Hoi An at your own pace. Discover its charming streets, savor local delicacies, or indulge in shopping for unique souvenirs. Overnight in Hoi An Ancient Town. Accommodation Options: Phu Thinh Resorts and Spa - 4-star or similar Lantana Riverside Hoi An Hotel - 4-star or similar KOI Resorts and Spa - 5-star or similar

Embark on a captivating full-day excursion to Hoi An, a historic trading hub known as "Faifo" in early Western trade. This vibrant city welcomed merchants from around the world, including Dutch, Portuguese, Italian, Chinese, and Japanese vessels. Begin your tour with a visit to a centrally located temple adorned with gilded statues, showcasing the fusion of Chinese and Japanese architectural influences. Explore a pagoda dedicated to sailors and fishermen, as well as a chapel dating back to the 1700s. Continue to the Sa Huynh Museum near the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, where you'll delve into the earliest era of Hoi An's captivating history. Marvel at the exhibitions that offer a glimpse into the city's rich past. In the afternoon, embark on a serene boat trip along the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong Village on Cam Kim Island. Witness the skilled woodworkers and shipbuilders, who have honed their craft for generations, showcasing the traditional way of life in this captivating region. Conclude the day by returning to the renowned "Cua Dai Beach." Indulge in a leisurely evening, basking in the beauty of the beach and immersing yourself in the breathtaking surroundings. Overnight in Hoi An. Accommodation Options: Phu Thinh Resorts and Spa - 4-star or similar Lantana Riverside Hoi An Hotel - 4-star or similar KOI Resorts and Spa - 5-star or similar

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel. At 8:00 am, depart for My Son, a captivating UNESCO World Heritage site located 50 km southwest of Hoi An. Once a capital and religious center of the Cham people, My Son now houses magnificent red brick towers and sanctuaries. This archaeological gem ranks among Southeast Asia's finest, alongside Angkor in Cambodia, Bagan in Myanmar, Ayutthaya in Thailand, and Borobudur in Indonesia. The towers and sanctuaries were constructed between the 7th and 13th centuries. Explore the enchanting valley, delving into the Cham civilization and their intricate beliefs. Admire the temples adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, immersing yourself in their profound significance. Return to Hoi An town around 1:00 pm, where you can enjoy a self-guided lunch. In the afternoon, savor some leisure time for shopping or personal exploration. Hoi An is renowned for its captivating lanterns, tailored clothing, and handcrafted souvenirs, inviting you to delve into local shops and markets. Conclude the day with an overnight stay in Hoi An. Accommodation Options: Phu Thinh Resorts and Spa - 4-star or similar Lantana Riverside Hoi An Hotel - 4-star or similar KOI Resorts and Spa - 5-star or similar

After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, you have the morning to unwind or indulge in shopping in charming Hoi An. Later, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to dynamic Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, a courteous driver will greet you and escort you to your hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is yours to explore the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh at your own pace. Immerse yourself in its rich culture by visiting notable attractions like the War Remnants Museum or the Independence Palace. Alternatively, soak up the lively atmosphere by taking a leisurely stroll through local markets. If relaxation is on your mind, retreat to your comfortable hotel room and rejuvenate after a day of travel. With numerous options to keep you entertained, Ho Chi Minh City promises an exciting experience. Overnight stay in Ho Chi Minh City as you prepare for tomorrow's adventures. Accommodation Options: Elios Hotel Saigon - 3-star or similar Golden Central Hotel Saigon - 4-star or similar Majestic Saigon Hotel - 5-star or similar

After a delightful breakfast at your hotel, embark on an enchanting journey through the highlights of Ho Chi Minh City. Begin with a visit to the mesmerizing Notre Dame Cathedral, an exquisite example of neo-Romanesque architecture crafted by the French in the 19th century. Next, explore the historic Central Post Office, an architectural marvel designed by Gustave Eiffel, adorned with intricate maps, designs, and elegant arched windows. Immerse yourself in history as you step foot into the Reunification Palace, a symbolic landmark of Vietnam's tumultuous past and the former presidential palace of South Vietnam. Indulge in a scrumptious lunch at a local restaurant before venturing to the renowned Cu Chi Tunnels in the afternoon. These expansive tunnels, stretching over 200km, played a crucial role during the Vietnam War, serving as underground cities complete with trap doors, living quarters, storage facilities, weapon factories, field hospitals, command centers, and kitchens. Gain insight into the tunnel's construction and spend the next few hours exploring the tunnels and remnants of war, discovering the ingenious methods and harsh realities faced by those who lived within them. Experience a slice of their daily lives and savor simple local cuisine that sustained the fighters. After the tour, return to your comfortable hotel in Ho Chi Minh City for a restful overnight stay. The distance between Saigon and the Cu Chi Tunnels is approximately 75 km, with a travel time of approximately 1.5 hours. Accommodation Options: Elios Hotel Saigon - 3-star or similar Golden Central Hotel Saigon - 4-star or similar Majestic Saigon Hotel - 5-star or similar

After a delightful breakfast at your hotel, your knowledgeable tour guide will pick you up at 8:00 am to commence your journey to My Tho, the captivating capital city of Tien Giang Province. Situated on the enchanting Mekong River, approximately 75 kilometers southeast of Ho Chi Minh City, My Tho is renowned for its verdant orchards and fertile rice fields that supply grains for the entire nation. During your visit to My Tho, you'll have the opportunity to explore one or two islands celebrated for their traditional craftsmanship, including the production of delectable coconut candy and enchanting bee farms. Additionally, you'll visit the illustrious Vinh Trang Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in the Mekong Delta region. To reach this architectural marvel adorned with intricate sculptures and surrounded by resplendent gardens, you'll embark on a captivating boat journey along the mesmerizing Mekong River. Upon concluding your My Tho adventure, you'll return to Ho Chi Minh City, where you'll check in at your hotel for a restful overnight stay. Accommodation Options: Elios Hotel Saigon - 3-star or similar Golden Central Hotel Saigon - 4-star or similar Majestic Saigon Hotel - 5-star or similar

After savoring a delightful breakfast at your hotel, it is time to bid farewell to Ho Chi Minh City. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for choosing Legend Travel Group as your travel companion throughout this extraordinary journey in Vietnam. We trust that you have forged indelible memories and cherished experiences. As you embark on your onward international flight or venture towards your next destination, rest assured that our dedicated team will facilitate a seamless and hassle-free departure from Ho Chi Minh City. We eagerly anticipate embarking on new and exciting adventures with you in the future.