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13 days tour

Hidden Vietnam: Sapa & Beyond

$ 3,000 .00 USD

Total price per person

Reserve with $3,000.00

Hidden Vietnam: Sapa & Beyond

This tour includes:

Others

All listed activities

Guide

Tour leader throughout

Meals

There are 11 breakfasts, two lunches and two dinners included. Thanks to the tropical climate, the long coast and the gigantic range of mountains, Vietnam is blessed with numerous varieties of culinary offerings and consequently maintains a reputation as one of the healthiest cuisines in the world that still packs a punch. Vietnamese food relies on fresh fish, vegetables, rice and a myriad of verdant herbs and spices; lemongrass, ginger, basil and lime all play an important role in the cuisine. The Chinese and French influence is felt throughout the country, where you are just as likely to be offered a banh mi (stuffed baguette) as you are pho (noodle soup). Also be sure to seek out the national drinks. Vietnamese coffee is served iced and sweet with condensed milk, and beer hoi (local beer, brewed daily) is served on most street corners in the north out of large plastic jugs that are perfect for sharing. Food is cheap in Vietnam, and you can generally avoid the spicier food if you wish. Western food is readily available almost everywhere, except at the homestay in northern Vietnam. Vegetarian food is widely available; however, the offering will be fairly similar in most places. Please advise at time of booking if you have any dietary requirements.

Transport

Throughout the tour, we use a private coach/minibus, usually with air conditioning. Road conditions are generally good and improving all the time. However, progress can be slow in the main cities due to traffic. The trains are normally on time, but you may experience delays and departure times can change without notice. Boats are used at various points in the itinerary; these are nearly always private. There is one domestic flight included from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City. Tet holiday period (Vietnamese New Year) During the Tet holiday period, 28 January to 3 February 2025 and 16-21 February 2026, and two weeks either side of Tet, our itinerary is subject to minor change as despite booking hotels and trains in advance, rooms and seats are difficult to obtain during this busy festive period when people are travelling home to celebrate with their families. It is unlikely that changes will occur and if they do it is likely we will just need to use alternative accommodation.

Accommodation

The accommodation on this trip provides an adventurous variety of places to stay. We spend seven nights in hotels, two nights at a lake resort, one night at a lodge on Cat Ba Island. We also spend one night in a homestay in the hillside village of Ta Phin near Sapa. Finally, we have one night on the Reunification Express, a sleeper train that takes us from Hanoi to Dong Hoi. The normal accommodations used on this trip are on the day-to-day itinerary; however, below are some of the notable places we stay. Ta Phin: Homestay (night 3) During our time in the village of Ta Phin, we are looked after by local ethnic communities. The rooms are relatively basic; bedding and a small towel are provided, while there are shared bathroom facilities with a shower. The real highlight though is the hospitality of our hosts and being able to experience an authentic home-cooked dinner made from local produce. Cat Ba island: Cat Ba Ecolodge (night 5) We overnight at the Cat Ba Ecolodge, ideally situated in the heart of Cat Ba island. Surrounded by nature, it sits in a secluded setting featuring lush gardens, a swimming pool, and a restaurant offering a variety of locally grown Vietnamese meals. Reunification Express: (night 6) Our sleeper train takes us from Hanoi to Dong Hoi โ€“ a classic journey in this part of the world. Itโ€™s an essential part of the tour, linking two special destinations without resorting to flying or a lengthy coach trip. However, trains in Vietnam are not luxurious and itโ€™s best to come prepared to maximise your experience โ€“ weโ€™ve found extra warm layers to combat the air conditioning and ear plugs can provide a little more comfort! We stay in soft-bed berths, usually four passengers per berth. The trains here are safe but, as with any trip, we recommend you keep valuables with you. Snacks are normally offered on board and most trains have Western-style facilities, but some are equipped with squat toilets. Phong Nha: Phong Nha Lakehouse (nights 7-8) This resort is located by the tranquil Dong Suon Lake and only a 10-minute drive from Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park. The Lakehouse is a multi-functional resort with facilities catering for relaxation and fun, including an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant and bar, and the option to kayak on the lake. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning and mosquito nets. Worth knowing Single supplements are available (on request) but only for 10 nights of the trip (hotel nights). Please advise your sales representative at the time of booking if you would like to request a single supplement. Private bathroom facilities are not available at the homestay in Ta Phin village or the overnight sleeper train. The accommodation listed in each location on the day-to-day itinerary are the standard hotels used. However, there may be some departures where groups stay at similar hotels of the same standard and quality.

Not included:

Flights

Flights are not included

Others

โ€” Travel Insurance โ€” Single accommodation (available on request) โ€” Visas or vaccinations

Insurance

Insurance is not included

Optional

Other activities and services are not included

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Hidden Vietnam: Sapa & Beyond

  • Day 1 Day 1: Start Hanoi
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 1: Start Hanoi

      The adventure starts in the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi. If you have time after your flight, familiarise yourself with the city by wandering the tree-lined avenues. There will be a welcome meeting this evening with your leader, followed by an optional group dinner. Accommodation: Hoa Binh Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 2 Day 2: Early Departure To Sapa; Free Time To Explore The Market (Breakfast)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 2: Early Departure To Sapa; Free Time To Explore The Market (Breakfast)

      We depart Hanoi early this morning and drive north (approximately six hours) through scenic countryside and mountainous terrain to the remote town of Sapa in northwest Vietnam. It overlooks a beautiful valley and is known for its cool mountain atmosphere, while the surrounding region of picturesque hills, terraced rice fields and villages are home to many different ethnic minority communities. Upon arrival in the early afternoon, we have time to explore the town. We visit the lively market: a maze of stalls where local people buy and sell handicrafts and fresh produce. Make sure to sample the delicious street food. Accommodation: Hotel De Sapa (or similar)

  • Day 3 Day 3: Trek Among Lush Forests And Terraced Rice Fields To Ta Phin Village; Overnight Homestay (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 3: Trek Among Lush Forests And Terraced Rice Fields To Ta Phin Village; Overnight Homestay (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)

      After breakfast, we hike to the traditional hillside village of Ta Phin. Accompanied by a local guide, we follow a scenic route through lush forests and terraced rice fields, stopping en route for a picnic lunch. The hike takes four to six hours and will be adjusted by the local guide and leader to suit the groupโ€™s pace and fitness. The terrain is mainly flat and covers approximately 8mi (13km) with occasional uphill and downhill stretches. There will be plenty of stops along the way to admire the views. Upon reaching Ta Phin, we learn about the sustainable practices of the local Hmong and Red Dao communities on a village walk, where we see how they live and work in harmony with nature. This evening, we experience the warm hospitality of the villagers with an authentic home-cooked dinner made from local produce and spend the night in a homestay. Accommodation: Homestay in Ta Phin village

  • Day 4 Day 4: Return To Hanoi; Free Time To Explore (Breakfast)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 4: Return To Hanoi; Free Time To Explore (Breakfast)

      This morning, we bid farewell to our hosts and drive back to Hanoi (approximately six hours). After checking into our hotel, we have the rest of the day free to explore Hanoi, the fascinating capital of Vietnam. You may wish to wander through the Old Quarter, where the 36 Streets are named after the product in which each specialises, such as Silk Street, Gold Street, Paper Street, and Tourist Souvenir Street. Or perhaps take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, a favourite pastime for many Hanoi residents. You may have the choice this evening to see a water puppet performance, which your leader can arrange (subject to availability). Accommodation: Hoa Binh Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 5 Day 5: To Cat Ba Island; Boat Cruise And Kayak Lan Ha Bay; Dinner And Overnight At An Ecolodge (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 5: To Cat Ba Island; Boat Cruise And Kayak Lan Ha Bay; Dinner And Overnight At An Ecolodge (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)

      We rise early and transfer to Cat Ba Island by road and a short ferry transfer (approximately four hours in total). After arrival, we board our boat and spend the afternoon cruising Lan Ha Bay, where incredible karst islands and limestone outcrops mirror those at the better-known Ha Long Bay. The tour includes kayaking for those who wish to participate, allowing us to get up close to the towering limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and tranquil beaches of the bay. We also enjoy an included lunch on the boat. Following the trip, we transfer to Cat Ba Ecolodge, a sustainable eco-resort in the heart of Cat Ba Island. The resort offers beautiful mountain and forest views and is the perfect place to unwind following an afternoon of adventure. In the evening, we have a barbecue dinner at the resort featuring locally sourced ingredients allowing us to taste the unique flavours of Vietnamese cuisine and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Accommodation: Cat Ba Ecolodge

  • Day 6 Day 6: Transfer To Hanoi; Overnight Train To Dong Hoi (Breakfast)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 6: Transfer To Hanoi; Overnight Train To Dong Hoi (Breakfast)

      We leave Cat Ba Island after breakfast and head back to Hanoi (approximately four hours). There will be a bit of free time in the afternoon and early evening in the capital. You might like to join the local people by pulling up a plastic stool and sampling one of the many street food offerings; the bun cha (barbecued pork with rice noodles and fresh herbs) is particularly delicious. In the evening, we transfer to the railway station to board our overnight train to Dong Hoi, 310mi (500km) south of Hanoi. Accommodation: Overnight train

  • Day 7 Day 7: Arrival In Dong Hoi; Transfer To Phong Nha; Option To Kayak On Lake Or Relax
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 7: Arrival In Dong Hoi; Transfer To Phong Nha; Option To Kayak On Lake Or Relax

      Arriving early in Dong Hoi, we stretch our legs and stop for breakfast in town before we take a transfer (approximately one hour) to Phong Nha where we spend the next two nights at an eco-resort. Phong Nha is located in the Quang Binh province, a true beauty and relatively undiscovered by mainstream tourism. Itโ€™s home to a wide range of natural wonders, including the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, home to remarkable caves and rivers. Our accommodation by the tranquil Dong Suon Lake is the perfect place to recharge after the overnight train ride. The day is free for you to kayak on the lake, swim or soak up the peaceful atmosphere. Accommodation: Phong Nha Lakehouse (or similar)

  • Day 8 Day 8: Journey To Underground Rivers, Karst Mountains And Verdant Jungle Of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (Breakfast)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 8: Journey To Underground Rivers, Karst Mountains And Verdant Jungle Of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (Breakfast)

      Following a relaxed breakfast, we start our day of adventure with a short transfer to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Designated a Unesco World Heritage site in 2003, the national park contains the oldest karst mountains in Asia. Home to hundreds of cave systems and spectacular underground rivers, this is an area very new to tourism but sure to impress. We begin at Thien Duong Cave, also known as Paradise Cave, which was only discovered in 2005. It is known for having intricate and unique rock formations, while the colours and patterns within the cave are truly awe-inspiring. Our next stop is a boat trip to the Phong Nha Cave. This journey takes us along the Son River, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs; an excellent opportunity to take in the serene beauty of park. Accommodation: Phong Nha Lakehouse (or similar)

  • Day 9 Day 9: Take A Scenic Transfer To Hoi An (Breakfast)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 9: Take A Scenic Transfer To Hoi An (Breakfast)

      Departing after breakfast, we transfer south to Hoi An. Although the journey will take approximately six hours, our drive passes a wide range of scenery along the way. The route between Phong Nha and Hoi An is among the most scenic in Vietnam, encompassing majestic mountains, verdant forests and serene waterways. After checking into our hotel, we embrace the sleepy ambience of Hoi An on an orientation walk around the old town: the original European trading port in Vietnam dating to the mid-16th century. It is now a living museum, with attractive wooden merchant houses and pagoda-style temples displaying Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese and European architectural influences. It is also a marvelous place to wander around, dipping into the thriving riverside market and shopping for silk clothing. Accommodation: Hoi An Sincerity Hotel & Spa (or similar)

  • Day 10 Day 10: Half-Day Cycle Around Hoi An Countryside; Free Afternoon (Breakfast)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 10: Half-Day Cycle Around Hoi An Countryside; Free Afternoon (Breakfast)

      Following breakfast, we have a leisurely half-day bike trip through the Hoi An countryside including a stop at Can Kim Island. Upon arrival at Cam Kim Island, we receive a warm welcome into a local familyโ€™s home and learn the secrets behind my quang. This traditional rice noodle dish is one of the most popular meals in the region and often served on special occasions, including at parties, anniversaries and during Tแบฟt (Vietnamese New Year). During the demonstration, we learn about the ingredients and cooking techniques used and then roll up our sleeves to make the dish ourselves under the expert tutelage of the family. We then return to Hoi An, where the rest of the day is free to enjoy a town that has become a favourite for so many travellers to Vietnam. Accommodation: Hoi An Sincerity Hotel & Spa (or similar)

  • Day 11 Day 11: Fly To Ho Chi Minh City; Afternoon Orientation Walk (Breakfast)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 11: Fly To Ho Chi Minh City; Afternoon Orientation Walk (Breakfast)

      This morning, we transfer to Da Nang Airport for the flight (approximately 1hr 25min) to Ho Chi Minh City (formally Saigon). This is an exciting, absorbing metropolis where scooters pack the streets and temples stand alongside modern developments. Devastated by the Vietnam War, it is now a bustling free-market city where anything goes. The Saigon River and Ben Thanh market are within walking distance and are highly recommended. After arrival, we take a short, leisurely orientation walk passing sites such as Bach Dang Wharf, Bitexco Tower, Ton That Dam old market and Ben Thanh market. Accommodation: Acnos Grand Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 12 Day 12: Morning Cyclo Tour Of Ho Chi Minh City; Free Afternoon (Breakfast)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 12: Morning Cyclo Tour Of Ho Chi Minh City; Free Afternoon (Breakfast)

      After breakfast, we jump into a cyclo (a three-wheeled bicycle-taxi) for a two-hour tour, a unique, immersive experience through the markets and streets of Ho Chi Minh City. Our first stop will be the energetic Hoa Ho Thi Ky market, where we stroll around and get a feel for the bustling atmosphere. We then hop back on our cyclo and make our way to Nhแบญt Tแบฃo market, a paradise for tech enthusiasts. Next, we visit Thiแบฟc market, which specialises in fresh vegetables, fruits, and some types of jewellery. Finally, we visit Thien Hau Pagoda, a spiritual landmark dedicated to the Chinese sea goddess Mazu. The colourful interior and intricate decorations of the pagoda provide a peaceful respite from the electric city. The remainder of the day is free for your own independent exploration. You may wish to visit the War Remnants Museum, which has an extensive photographic record of the Vietnam-American War. Please be aware that some images at the museum are very graphic. Alternatively, other popular sites to visit are the Notre Dame Cathedral or the Reunification Palace. Accommodation: Acnos Grand Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 13 Day 13: End Ho Chi Minh City (Breakfast)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 13: End Ho Chi Minh City (Breakfast)

      Our Vietnam tour ends this morning after breakfast. However, if youโ€™re not ready for the adventure to end, speak to your sales representative about joining our four-day post-trip excursion to Angkor in Cambodia, the standout archaeological site in Southeast Asia.

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Experience Style

Experience Style

Mixed

There will be challenging activities such as hiking, biking, canyoning and trekking, but youโ€™re also going to have other means of transportation and relaxed moments to just chill.

Accomodation level

Accomodation level

Medium

This accommodation includes essential services like a hot shower, electricity, and a nice and comfy bed.

Experience Type

Experience Type

Small Group

Youโ€™ll be accompanied by a small group of travelers just like you.

Physical Rating

Physical Rating

Basic

Almost everyone is fit for these activities. Every hike or physical exercise last less than 30 minutes, such as paragliding and horseback riding. Please ask about specific conditions.

Age range

Age range

Min: 16 / Max: 80

Age range allowed for this experience.

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