Highlights of South Vietnam – 11 Days

Tour Code: JUTU3MF3E99E 

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Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi, Cai Be, Can Tho, Cai Rang, Dalat, Nha Trang, Phan Thiet
Land tour From: $627
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Duration

11 days

Tour Type

Specific Tour

Group Size

1 person

Languages

___

About this tour

Embark on a remarkable journey starting from vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, where you’ll cruise along the enchanting Mekong River and uncover the ingenious Cu Chi tunnels of the Viet Cong. Experience the allure of Dalat with its picturesque lakes, waterfalls, and lush pine-tree forests. Indulge in an island cruise in the coastal gem of Nha Trang, followed by blissful relaxation on the sun-kissed beaches of the charming port city of Phan Thiet.

Highlights

  • * Ha Long Bay: A stunning bay with thousands of limestone cliffs and islets rising from the water. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam.
  • * Hoi An: A charming ancient town with traditional architecture, lantern-lined streets, and a rich history. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • * Ho Chi Minh City: The largest city in Vietnam, with a vibrant street life, French colonial architecture, and a bustling atmosphere.
  • * Hue: The former imperial capital of Vietnam, with ancient temples, tombs, and palaces. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • * Sapa: A mountainous region in the northwest of Vietnam, known for its beautiful rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and trekking opportunities.
  • * Phu Quoc Island: A tropical island paradise in the Gulf of Thailand, with white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and coral reefs.
  • * Mekong Delta: A vast network of waterways and fertile land, known for its floating markets, rice paddies, and traditional villages.
  • * Ninh Binh: An area of natural beauty, with stunning karst landscapes, rice fields, and ancient temples.
  • * Da Nang: A coastal city with beautiful beaches, mountain scenery, and a vibrant food and drink scene.
  • * Hanoi: The capital of Vietnam, with a mix of old and new architecture, street food, and cultural sites such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature.

Included/Excluded

  • * All accommodations (with Twin/Double rooms) while on tour
  • * Accommodation based on twin or double sharing room
  • * All transfers and road transport in modern, air-conditioned vehicles if specified in the program
  • * Meals as mentioned in the program. B-Breakfast, Br-Brunch, L-Lunch, D-Dinner
  • * Your tour guide is a professional, fully trained employee of Vietnam Tour Packages ( Vietnam Tour Packages)
  • * All sightseeing as specified including entrance fees
  • * Airfares if specified in the program. ( E-Economy class, B-Business calss)
  • * Visa Approval Letter if specified in the program
  • • Compulsory tips for tour guide and driver
  • • Meals not mentioned in the program
  • • Any flights (Domestic and International) and airport tax
  • • Single Supplement. Early check-in and late check-out. Hotel/Room upgrade
  • • Drinks, personal expenses and any services not clearly mentioned in the program
  • • Surcharge for the festive seasons
  • • Applicable Government Taxes and other service charges.
  • • The tour cost does not include POE charges and passport charges.
  • • Porterage Facility

Itinerary

<span> Day 1</span>Ho Chi Minh City

Welcome to the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's largest and most vibrant city. Upon arrival, you'll be warmly greeted at the airport and escorted to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to explore and immerse yourself in the city's captivating atmosphere.

<span> Day 2 </span>Cu Chi Tunnels Discovery

Embark on an intriguing journey to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, located approximately 75 km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City. These legendary underground mazes played a crucial role during the Vietnam War and are a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people. Afterward, return to Ho Chi Minh City and explore the iconic Reunification Palace, a symbol of the city's tumultuous past. You'll also get a glimpse of the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral (currently undergoing renovations) and visit the War Remnants Museum, providing valuable insights into the events of the "American" War. Conclude the day with a delightful shopping experience at Ben Thanh market.

<span> Day 3 </span>Explore the Enchanting Mekong Delta

Depart from Ho Chi Minh City and venture into the scenic countryside of the Mekong Delta. Embark on a traditional sampan boat and cruise through the tranquil waterways, where you'll witness local cottage industries producing bricks and rice paper. Visit the remarkable home of Mr. Sau Khanh, a collector of ancient and valuable antiques, including ceramics, pottery, sculptures, and Buddha statues. In the afternoon, proceed to Can Tho, where you'll spend the night.

<span> Day 4 </span>Cai Rang Floating Market and Can Tho Highlights

Experience a captivating morning cruise along the charming tributaries of the Mekong, leading to the lively Cai Rang Floating Market. Observe the picturesque scenery and observe the locals' daily activities along the river canals. Later, explore the cultural gems of Can Tho, including the historic Binh Thuy Ancient House and the revered Ong Pagoda. Afterward, fly to Dalat, known as the "City of Spring" for its pleasant climate and natural beauty. Upon arrival in Dalat, you'll be transferred to your hotel for a relaxing stay amidst the picturesque lakes, waterfalls, pine forests, and flower gardens.

<span> Day 5 </span>Discover the Charms of Dalat

Embark on a guided exploration of Dalat today. Begin your journey at The Crazy House, an architectural marvel with its intricate design and whimsical layout. Next, visit the historic Dalat Railway Station and enjoy a delightful 7km ride aboard a restored locomotive to Trai Mat village. Marvel at the picturesque landscapes adorned with Dalat's iconic greenhouses and enchanting flower gardens. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Linh Phuoc Pagoda, home to a magnificent golden Buddha statue and a remarkable cast bronze bell tower, boasting one of Vietnam's largest bells. Finally, savor the breathtaking vistas from Langbian Mountain as you hear the romantic legend that surrounds this enchanting peak. Please note: The train operates with a minimum of 20 passengers; if not met, alternative transportation will be provided to Trai Mat.

<span> Day 6 </span>Journey to Nha Trang

Depart Dalat for the renowned coastal city of Nha Trang. Celebrated for its pristine white sandy beaches, turquoise waters stretching up to 7km, and an archipelago of over 200 offshore islands, Nha Trang is a true tropical paradise. Upon arrival in the early afternoon, check-in at your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, basking in the beauty of this coastal gem.

<span> Day 7 </span>Nha Trang Island Escape

Indulge in a day of tranquility as you embark on a cruise through the crystal-clear azure waters, exploring the enchanting islands off the coast of Nha Trang. Glide past picturesque islets until you reach Mini Beach, a serene oasis where you can opt for a refreshing swim, an exhilarating kayaking adventure, or immerse yourself in the underwater wonders through snorkeling. Alternatively, bask in relaxation under the shade of majestic trees, soaking in the panoramic vistas of the bay. Delight in a delectable set lunch on board the cruise before venturing to a charming fishing village, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. As the sun sets, the cruise takes you back to Nha Trang Harbour, allowing glimpses of Vung Ngan floating village and Vinpearl Island, with the iconic Bao Dai Villas bidding farewell upon your return to the mainland.

<span> Day 8 </span>Mui Ne Beach Escapade

After a satisfying breakfast, depart for Phan Thiet and Mui Ne Beach. Along the way, take in the cultural wonders of Po Klong Garai Cham Tower in Phan Rang Town and visit the traditional Cham Villages of My Nghiep (known for its weaving) and Bau Truc (celebrated for its pottery). Upon arrival, settle into your beachfront hotel, embracing the tranquil ambiance of this coastal paradise.

<span> Day 9-10 </span>Serenity in Mui Ne

Savor the next two days at your leisure in Mui Ne, where pristine white sand beaches harmonize with the charm of a quaint fishing village. Explore the renowned red and white sand dunes, embark on a scenic stroll to the ethereal Fairy Spring, or visit the 9th-century Cham tower to relish sweeping vistas of Mui Ne town.

<span> Day 11 </span>Farewell to Vietnam

Following breakfast, you'll be transferred to Ho Chi Minh City airport for your onward journey. Depart with cherished memories of your remarkable Vietnamese escapade.

Durations

9 - 12 days

Regional Tours

Vietnam

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Tour's Location

Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi, Cai Be, Can Tho, Cai Rang, Dalat, Nha Trang, Phan Thiet
Ba Chuc: A Haunting Memorial to Vietnam’s “Killing Fields” - Ba Chuc: A Haunting Memorial to Vietnam’s "Killing Fields" 📍 Location: 40km southwest of Chau Doc⏰ Opening Hours: Daily 9 AM – 5 PM💰 Entrance Fee: Free🚗 How to Get There: Take Highway 91, then Highway N1 along the Cambodia border toward Ha Tien, and turn south onto Highway 3T for the final stretch. You can hire a taxi or xe ôm (motorbike taxi) from Chau Doc, including waiting time if needed. A Tranquil Countryside with a Dark Past Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes southwest of Chau Doc, the peaceful village of Ba Chuc hides a history of unimaginable horror. In the late 1970s, as Cambodian refugees fled Pol Pot’s brutal regime, the region’s Khmer population swelled. Tragically, the Khmer Rouge pursued them into Vietnam, leaving behind a trail of massacres that still haunt this area today. The Ba Chuc Memorial: Remembering a Tragedy At the heart of the village stands a solemn memorial honoring the 3,157 victims of one of the worst massacres in Vietnamese history. Between April 18 and April 30, 1978, Khmer Rouge forces slaughtered nearly every resident, often in brutal and inhumane ways. Shockingly, only two villagers survived the bloodshed. The memorial structure, though simple in design, leaves a powerful impact. Beneath a stark concrete canopy lies an eight-sided glass enclosure, where skulls and bones of the victims are displayed, categorized by age—a chilling reminder of the innocence lost in this atrocity. Phi Lai Pagoda: A Silent Witness to Horror Many of the victims were mercilessly killed at the nearby Phi Lai Pagoda, which still bears visible bloodstains on its walls and floors. A small sign near the altar marks a tragic site where 40 villagers perished after a grenade was thrown into a tiny chamber beneath the shrine. Between the memorial and the pagoda, a small exhibition room houses harrowing black-and-white photographs taken immediately after the massacre. These images show scattered, mutilated corpses, offering an unfiltered look at the horrors inflicted upon Ba Chuc. Some pictures are extremely graphic and distressing, so visitors should be prepared before entering. Visiting Ba Chuc Today Despite its grim past, Ba Chuc remains an important historical site, attracting visitors who come to pay their respects and reflect on the devastation of war. A few cafés and food stalls nearby provide refreshments for those exploring the area. Ba Chuc stands as Vietnam’s own "Killing Fields", a stark reminder of the atrocities committed by the Khmer Rouge. While the site is not for the faint-hearted, it serves as a vital testament to history—one that should never be forgotten.The Hoa Hao Religion - The Hoa Hao Religion: A Unique Buddhist Sect in Vietnam 📍 Location: Hoa Hao Village, 20km east of Chau Doc👤 Founder: Huynh Phu So📜 Key Beliefs: Simplicity in worship, direct connection with the Supreme Being, ascetic lifestyle The Hoa Hao religion, a distinctive Buddhist sect, emerged in Vietnam in the late 1930s, originating from the small village of Hoa Hao, near Chau Doc. The movement was founded by Huynh Phu So, a visionary spiritual leader whose life story is deeply intertwined with the sect’s teachings. Origins and Core Beliefs Huynh Phu So, a frail child, was placed under the care of a reclusive monk, where he studied both traditional Buddhist teachings and mystical spiritual disciplines. In 1939, at the age of 20, he experienced a profound trance, during which a new form of Buddhism was revealed to him. Upon awakening, he was miraculously cured of his lifelong illness and began preaching his unique spiritual philosophy. Hoa Hao Buddhism promotes a stripped-down approach to worship, rejecting elaborate rituals, temples, and intermediaries such as monks and priests. Instead, it emphasizes direct personal communication with the Supreme Being. The faith also upholds strict moral values, discouraging alcohol, drugs, and gambling. These principles, along with Huynh Phu So’s reputed healing and prophetic abilities, quickly attracted a large following, especially among Vietnam’s rural peasant communities. Political Influence and Conflict Beyond its religious foundation, the Hoa Hao sect soon became a political force, forming a militia to support its nationalist, anti-French, and anti-Communist stance. During World War II, the Japanese occupation army supplied them with weapons, seeking to destabilize the French colonial administration. However, the French viewed the movement with deep suspicion, branding Huynh Phu So as the "Mad Monk." In 1941, he was imprisoned and later confined to a psychiatric hospital—where he astonishingly converted his doctor to Hoa Hao Buddhism. Upon his release in 1945, tensions between the Hoa Hao and the Viet Minh escalated, leading to Huynh’s assassination by Viet Minh agents in 1947. Despite fierce resistance, the sect’s influence waned over the following decades. In the 1950s, President Ngo Dinh Diem’s crackdown on dissident groups further weakened the movement, culminating in the capture and execution of Hoa Hao military leader Ba Cut in 1956. By the end of the Vietnam War in 1975, the Communist government had eliminated any remaining political or military presence of the sect. Hoa Hao Buddhism Today Despite its turbulent history, Hoa Hao Buddhism remains a significant spiritual tradition, with an estimated two million followers primarily residing in Chau Doc and Long Xuyen. Some devout male practitioners still wear long beards and hair tied in a bun, a traditional marker of Hoa Hao adherents. While the sect no longer engages in political activism, its legacy continues through its strong spiritual and ethical influence on local communities.

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Land tourFrom: $627
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Traveltui

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