Experience quintessential Vietnam on this comprehensive journey from south to north. Travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi and experience dynamic cities, tranquil backwaters, imperial ruins, faded colonial elegance and picture-perfect landscapes dotted with reminders of past history. This was our first trip to Vietnam and many say it remains our best.

Days 1-2 Ho Chi Minh City:
Discover this dynamic economic hub on a cyclo tour through chaotic streets. An excursion to the War Remnants Museum makes for a disquieting interlude.

Days 3-4 Mekong Delta:
Wake early to watch the waterways of the Mekong Delta come alive with floating markets. Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels to unearth a world of underground mystery.

Days 5-6 Dalat:
Vietnam's 'honeymoon capital' is like spring all year round, with its cool climate, charming French villas and vibrant market.

Days 7-8 Nha Trang:
Enjoy breathtaking views around every corner on the Ngoan Muc Pass and stop at the striking Po Klong Garai Cham Towers. In Nha Trang, sultry waters, swaying palms and a sailboat await.

Day 9 Quy Nhon:
Relish the breathtaking scenery travelling to Quy Nhon, where there's a chance to spend time teaching English to local kids at the Nguyen Nga Centre.

Days 10-12 Hoi An:
Boasting over 500 tailors and handicraft shops, Hoi An is a shopper's paradise.

Days 13-14 Hue:
Stop at the famed China Beach en route to regal Hue. Take a dragon boat cruise along the timeless Perfume River and admire the stately Thien Mu Pagoda.

Day 15 Ninh Binh:
Travel by train to friendly Ninh Binh where farmers and their buffaloes work the picturesque rice paddies.

Day 16 Cuc Phuong National Park:
Get close to monkeys and gibbons at the Endangered Primate Rescue Centre.

Day 17 Halong Bay:
Cruise among dramatic karsts rising out of the emerald waters of Halong Bay.

Days 18-20 Hanoi:
Stroll along leafy boulevards to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and see a water puppet performance.

Duration:
20 days

Tour Code:
VST

Physical Rating:
2

Culture Shock Rating:
2

Accommodation:
Hotels/guesthouses (17 nts), overnight sailing junk (1 nt), homestay (1 nt)

Transportation:
Train, minibus, overnight boat, cyclo, walking

Trip Style:
Intrepid Original

Group Size:
Maximum of 12 travellers per group

Departure:
Departure is guaranteed

Budget:
Allow USD $350 for meals not included.

Trip Kitty:

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