Vietnam: from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City 13 Days

Our adventure begins as we rise with the sun, ready to embark on a memorable experience. Our comfortable minivan awaits us for a scenic drive northward. Though the journey is approximately 4 hours long, we can relax and enjoy the breathtaking views along the way. Our destination is Mai Chau, where we'll explore the valley by visiting the charming villages of Lac and Pom Coong, inhabited by the Thai ethnic minority. Mai Chau Valley: Situated between the Red River and the northern mountains, Mai Chau Valley is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes. Merely 170 km away from Hanoi, it has become a popular destination for travelers seeking picturesque beauty. Despite its popularity, Mai Chau has managed to preserve its authenticity. Life here is characterized by simplicity, rural charm, and a harmonious connection with the natural world. Generations have passed down age-old rituals that continue to hold significance. Vast green hills adorned with endless rice fields stretch as far as the eye can see. As soon as we arrive, the allure of witnessing the true and authentic Vietnam will be unmistakable. Included: Private minivan with driver and local guide Money Pot: Admission fees (if applicable) Not included: Food and beverages

Get ready for another amazing day in Vietnam! Our journey takes us to the enchanting Pu Luong Nature Reserve, where we'll embark on a memorable trek through captivating rice fields. Pu Luong is a valley of wonder, and despite our experience with valleys yesterday, this one promises to captivate us in new ways. We'll traverse the narrow trails that wind through lush fields and vegetation, leading us to the picturesque village of Kho Muong. Don't forget to have your camera ready, as you'll be capturing countless moments of beauty. Continuing our trek through the valley, each turn reveals a different panorama. We'll witness roads meandering through verdant fields, glimpses of serene villages, tranquil ponds, meandering rivers, gentle hills, and majestic mountains, until we finally reach Pu Luong village in the late afternoon. Included: Private minivan with driver and local guide Money Pot: Admission fees (if applicable) Not included: Food and beverages

Today, we travel from Pu Luong to Ninh Binh in our comfortable private minivan. Upon arrival, you'll have some free time to independently explore the area. Feel free to rent a bike, allowing you to effortlessly roam around and get a taste of the captivating charm of Ninh Binh. Known as one of the most captivating destinations in Vietnam, we've yet to encounter a place that disappoints. Included: Private minivan with driver and local guide Money Pot: Bike rental and admission fees (if applicable) Not included: Food and beverages

Time is precious, and today we have an array of enticing destinations to choose from. The decision is ours to make! We can embark on a boat excursion to the Tam Coc Caves, where local boatmen skillfully navigate with their feet - an extraordinary experience. Alongside, we have the opportunity to visit the mystical Bich Dong Pagoda, a short distance away, making it a win-win choice. Alternatively, we can explore the grandeur of the Bai Dinh Pagoda, revered as the most prominent pilgrimage site for Buddhists and the largest pagoda in Vietnam. Another option is to immerse ourselves in the historical and cultural richness of Hoa Lu, the ancient capital surrounded by majestic mountains and adorned with remarkable temples, including Dinh Tien Hoang. Included: Private minivan with driver and local guide Money Pot: Admission fees (if applicable) Not included: Food and beverages

Rise and shine, fellow travelers! New adventures await us as we embark on a scenic journey to Halong Bay, which we'll reach in just a couple of hours by our reliable minivan. Halong Bay, a realm of enchantment and mystery, mesmerizes with its collection of over 2,000 verdant islands. Around lunchtime, we board a traditional boat that will be our floating sanctuary for the day and night. Our first stop takes us to the breathtaking Sung Sot Cave, also known as the Cave of Surprises. Here, we'll disembark and ascend 150 steps to marvel at a magnificent panoramic view of the bay. As we continue our sail through Halong Bay, we'll bask in the unique beauty of this extraordinary place, hoping for clear skies to witness the magical sunset. After a delightful dinner onboard, we'll gracefully navigate through the serene, starry night, embracing the tranquility of the bay. Included: Halong Bay boat cruise, transportation, local guide, lunch, and dinner Money Pot: Admission fees (if applicable)

We touch down around 11 am, but we encourage you not to sleep in too late, for the sunrise in Halong Bay is as enchanting as its sunset. Additionally, we have the opportunity to indulge in some invigorating yoga and meditation on the deck. Our private minivan awaits, ready to transport us back to Hanoi. Once there, we'll have free time to explore the city's oldest neighborhood, where the juxtaposition of old and new comes alive before our eyes. Hanoi is a tapestry of contrasts, and we'll witness this firsthand. During the afternoon, we can immerse ourselves in the tranquility of pagodas such as Tran Quoc or visit ancient temples like the Literature Temple, which served as Vietnam's first National University. And as we stroll through the streets, why not savor some delectable street food? A Night on the Train After days of traveling in our minivan, it's time to reignite the true WeRoad spirit. Tonight, we embark on a truly local experience! As evening falls, we board a night train, whisking us away on a seamless journey spanning almost 600 km. In Southeast Asia, night trains are the preferred mode of transport for long distances, and this unique adventure is not to be missed. Included: Private minivan with driver, local guide, and night train Money Pot: Admission fees (if applicable) Not included: Food and beverages

Immerse in Ancient Culture No visit to Vietnam is complete without a stop in Hue, where royal palaces, pagodas, and imperial tombs await. The former royal capital stands in stark contrast to the bustling modernity of Hanoi, with its peaceful ambiance and unhurried rhythms that seem frozen in time. The must-see sights include the Purple Forbidden City, Emperors' Mausoleums, Museum of Royal Arts, Heavenly Lady Pagoda, and Bach Ma Monastery, all of which hold UNESCO recognition as part of Vietnam's cultural heritage. This is the epitome of Vietnam's rich history at its finest. Money Pot: Local transportation and admission fees (if applicable) Not included: Food and beverages

Welcome to Hoi An, an exquisite gem in Vietnam. As we explore the captivating Old Town, we'll find ourselves enchanted by the Lantern Market, where we can discover unique souvenirs to bring back home. When night falls, the city comes alive with the soft glow of lanterns, creating an enchanting ambiance. Indulge in the local cuisine or even better, immerse ourselves in a Vietnamese cooking class. Hoi An's coastal location grants us access to pristine beaches, and with two days here, we have ample time to bask in the Vietnamese sun. For an extraordinary adventure, we can embark on a day trip to the nearby Cu Lao Cham island. Sounds delightful, doesn't it? Money Pot: Local transportation and admission fees (if applicable) Not included: Food and beverages

The Dynamic Southern Metropolis Good morning, Vietnam! After two wonderful days in Hoi An, we resume our journey by flying to Ho Chi Minh City. Here, we are greeted by a modern and vibrant cityscape, bustling with crowded streets, spirited scooters, and lively local markets where street food tempts our taste buds. Our walking tour of Saigon begins with iconic landmarks such as the Independence Palace (Reunification Convention Hall) and the serene Jade Emperor Pagoda. We continue our exploration to the European-inspired Notre Dame Cathedral, set amidst the Vietnamese cityscape. For those who desire a deeper understanding of history, the option to visit the War Remnants Museum is available, shedding light on one of Vietnam's darkest periods. To end the day on a high note, we can choose between a sunset boat tour along the Saigon River or a refreshing drink at one of the city's panoramic sky bars. Included: Domestic flight from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City Money Pot: Local transportation and admission fees (if applicable) Not included: Food and beverages

Embarking on a southern journey, our final day in Vietnam takes us to the serene waters of the Mekong Delta. This captivating region is renowned for its vibrant floating markets and a multitude of boats brimming with wares. How these merchants navigate without losing their way remains one of Vietnam's intriguing mysteries. Farewell Dinner Returning to Ho Chi Minh City, we conclude our Vietnamese adventure with a heartfelt farewell dinner. As we savor the flavors and reminisce about our remarkable journey, let's make the most of these precious final hours together. Included: Mekong Delta boat tour and farewell dinner Money Pot: Local transportation and admission fees (if applicable) Not included: Food and beverages

Check-out It's time to bid adieu and return home, carrying cherished memories from our WeRoad experience. Please ensure you arrange your departure flight from Ho Chi Minh City, where our trip comes to a close. End of Services. The itinerary may undergo unforeseen changes beyond WeRoad's control, such as weather conditions, national holidays, strikes, etc.