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Embarking on an extraordinary Vietnam 3 week itinerary opens a gateway to a world of captivating diversity and profound experiences. The adventure unfolds as you traverse the bustling streets of Hanoi, immersing in rich history and vibrant culture. A trek through the emerald landscapes of Sapa offers an authentic hill-tribe encounter and breathtaking mountain vistas, followed by an exploration of the picturesque karst formations in Ninh Binh. From there, a cruise through the mystical karsts of Ha Long Bay leads to the charming lantern-lit alleys of Hoi An, followed by a journey to the ancient imperial city of Hue, where history comes alive through its regal architecture. Venturing south, the bustling energy of Ho Chi Minh City offers a modern contrast, while the languid waters of the Mekong Delta provide a glimpse into traditional river life. As the journey culminates, Mui Ne emerges as a serene masterpiece, where sun-soaked beaches and mesmerizing dunes offer a moment to exhale. This remarkable 3 weeks in Vietnam itinerary concludes with a soothing stay in Mui Ne, where the memories of an enchanting exploration linger like a whispered promise of return.
Arrive in Hanoi. Greeted by your driver at the airport. Transfer to your hotel in the city centre for check-in and at leisure in the rest of the day.
Hanoi Old Quarter
Note*:
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
Free to relax in the morning.
Pickup at 13:30. We will spend a half day to visit the city. We start with visit to President Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum (Outside). We also visit the famous One Pillar Pagoda nearby.
Hanoi City
Leaving the President’s complex, we continue to visit the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu). Although several Van Mieu can be found throughout Vietnam, the most prominent and famous is that situated in the city of Hanoi, and was functioned as Vietnam’s first university.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
Enjoy your free day to relax and explore Hanoi by your self.
In the evening, pickup and transfer to the station for overnight train to Sapa.
Hanoi City
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Overnight Train to Sapa
Arrive Lao Cai station in the early morning. Pickup and transfer to Sapa for breakfast. Then transferred 18 km to Ban Lech village of the Red Zao. We will trek along a narrow valley downhill for 2 hour to the Ngoi Bo River, then uphill for 1 hour to Muong Bo Village at the center of Thanh Phu Commune where your lunch will be provided in a local house.
Sapa Rice Terrance
After lunchtime, you will trek gradually uphill to Nam Cum Village and then head to Sin Chai B village of Red Dzao where the night will be spent in a bamboo hut in the village.
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Accommodation: Homestay
Today’s trek takes you through terraced rice paddies, bamboo forest and villages of the Red Zao and Tay such as Sin Chai A, Nam Than, Nam Nhiu with many stops for visiting local homes, schoools as well as for taking photos. Your lunch will be prepared and served in a local house.
Interact with local people
In the afternoon, you head to Ban Sai village of Tay minority, near the center of Nam Sai Commune. Here you will walk around to explore this village and home stay overnight here in a house on stilts. Dinner will be served with Vietnamese dishes.
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Accommodation: Homestay at Ban Sai Village
On the last day of the trek you will cross several suspension bridges and trek through lush rice paddy fields and stunning scenery. Once leaving Ban Sai, you will cross the river after paying visit to My Son – a village of the Xa Pho group and then follow a narrow trail uphill to Nam Keng and continue to Nam Toong, where you have lunch in a local school.
Sapa Town
In the afternoon, your trek will be firstly downhill to Ban Ho village where you will have time for a swim in the river. The car will meet you there and return you to Sapa. Enjoy free time to relax and explore Sapa Town.
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Sapa
Free and easy to explore Sapa Town till pickup in early afternoon to transfer to Hanoi by luxury mini van. Arrive Hanoi in the evenning. Free to relax.
Cat Cat Village in Sapa
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
08:00: Pick up you from your hotel. Transfer to Ninh Binh.
09.10: We have a short break on the way for you have rest room or enjoy some tea or coffee
10,00: You will arrive at Ninh Hai village located near Tam Coc where you start your visit and discover the beautiful of the area, when we arrive will get a mountain bike and start cycling to discover the rural villages to see how of the local people live and see their culture. Our tour guide will lead you to cycle through the narrow alley and special unique countryside road where few tourists know or see of the area
10.30: Our tour guide will take you to visit a local family and you will have chance to see the daily life and learn about their culture after visiting the local family you will cycle through Tam Coc Valley where you see the AMAZING landscape with beautiful Nature and all limestone mountain look amazing the area call Halong On Land
11.00: Visit Thai Vi temple where dedicated Tran dynasty and temple was built by King Tran Thai Tong in 1258
11.30: We head to our local home restaurant for lunch.
Trang An – Ninh Binh
13.20 Get on the van to take you to Tranq An harbors for the bamboo Boat trip to visit the AMAZING Landscape called Halong on land, Board the sampan boats (2 to 4 people share a boat) traditional sampan gently rowed down the exquisite river through numerous caves; Hang Toi (Dack) cave, 320 meters long, Sang (Light) cave, 90 meters long, and Hang Nau Ruou (Cooking wine) cave, 250 meters long.
15.45: Arrive at Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam in the 10th century, and visit the temple of King Dinh. Under the introduction of our local guide, you will get to know more about Vietnamese history.
We will then drive to the hotel in Ninh Binh for overnight.
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Ninh Binh
08h00: Pick up from your hotel in Ninh Binh. Drive to Halong City through the paddy fields in the Red River Delta.
10h00: Stopover on the way for a refreshment break
12h00: Arrive at Tuan Chau Wharf – Break and photography time
12h30: Board the Cruise for departure. Welcome drinks will be served
Halong Bay
13h00: Lunch is served while cruising through the bay
15h30: Visit exciting Cua Van fishing village. The village is free of busy roads and streets, electric lights, houses and high rise buildings. Instead, there are only herds of little boats and rafts. You will have the chance to discover the traditional culture and customs of the fishermen.
16h30: Enjoy kayaking or swimming (if the weather permits).
17h00: Back on board and continue cruising.
19h00: Dinner is served.
21h00: Take some leisure time to enjoy chatting at the bar or enjoy some night fishing.
Note*: the itinerary and activities on board would vary depending on the boat you choose. Please see the choice of boat in Hotel Inclusions.
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Accommodation: Halong Bay cruises
07.00: Coffee and tea will be served
08.00: Continue cruising
08h15: Visit splendid Sung Sot Cave
Sunset in Halong Bay
09h00: Check out and enjoy a fantastic cruise on the bay, passing Dinh Huong Island, fishing villages, Ga Choi Island, Dog Island and Sail Island.
09.30: Buffet brunch (breakfast/lunch) while cruising back through Halong Bay to the pier
11h30: Arrive at the pier. Time to say goodbye to the crew.
12.00: Pickup at the habor. Transfer to the airport for late afternoon flight to Danang. Transfer to the hotel in Hoian upon arrival.
Note*: The itinerary and activities on board would vary depending on the boat you choose. Please see the choice of boat in Hotel Inclusions.
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Hoian
Today, enjoy your free day to explore Hoian.
Hoian Ancient Town
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Hoian
Pickup at the hotel. Transfer to pointed place for cycling tour.
Today, you will spend a day leisurely cycling though the scenic countryside of Vietnam, far from the traffic the motor scooters, and the noises the city. You will cross the islands on the Song Thu river delta using local transportation, including ferries and floating bridge.
This tour will take you to discover how wooden river boats are made, learn the secret of weaving the colorful straw “Hoi An” sleeping mats Try the renowned Vietnamese basket boats and much more. You will spend the day with first-hand contact with one of the rural inhabitant of the region, far from the usual tourist circuits.
Farming at the Garden
At lunchtime you will be invited into the home of a local Vietnamese family for a traditional Vietnamese meal, and learn their customs and traditions. After you have relaxed for a while under the shade of a mango tree, you will begin your return towards Hoi An by boat, which will take about 35 minutes. Arrive Hoian ancient town at about 3pm. Free to explore Hoian or manage yourself to get back to the hotel.
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Hoian
Free in the morning.
In the afternoon, transfer to the station for day train to Hue. Enjoy scenic view of Hai Van Pass on the way.
Train through Hai Van Pass
Arrive Hue in late afternoon. Transfer to the hotel and enjoy free time.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Hue
08:00: Pickup at the hotel. Today, we will spend a full day touring Hue city. In the morning: visit Old Imperial City, Flag Tower, Thien Mu Pagoda and Dong Ba bustling market. Lunch at the local restaurant.
In the afternoon: visit Royal Tombs of Minh Mang and Khai Dinh. We will also visit a Conical hat village and incense stick village. Then tranfer back to the hotel. Free to explore Hue.
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Hue
Pickup for the morning flight to HCMC. Upon arrival, enjoy the city tour.
Notre Dame Cathedral
Our city tour will help you to see the best of Ho Chi Minh. We visit the historic Reunification palace and War Remnants Museum, followed by the architectural treats of French colonial Notre Dame Cathedral and the post Office. Then we visit the Ben Thanh bustling market. Free for shopping before getting to the hotel for checkin. Free to explore HCMC.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City
Pick up at your hotels in Ho Chi Minh City. The trip to Cu Chi will take you an approximately one and a half-hour bus drive. Before exploring the tunnels, you will watch an introductory video about how the tunnels were made and how Vietnamese people survived in the harsh conditions of the wartime. Then, spend your time exploring the remaining areas and tunnel system which include special living areas with kitchens and bedrooms side by side with other martial facilities like weapons factories, field hospitals, and command centers helping whoever lives inside the tunnels meet their basic needs. Besides, there are also many hidden trap doors and dangerous traps within the maze-like tunnels for the security purpose during the war. Afterwards, special tea and cassava (guerrillas’ food during the war) will be served. Break time.
Cu Chi Tunnels
After lunch at local restaurant, continue to visit My Tho city. With boat trip on Tien River, you will be excited by the light breeze from the river and the natural beauty of four beautiful islands such as Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix and Tortoise along the riverside.
A Mekong Floating Market
Cruise through the small canal by sampan, treating yourself to the beauty of the countryside, and taking a short cycling around the village which will certainly be an unforgettable experience when participating in the Mekong Delta tour. Visit the coconut candy workshop, and enjoy seasonal delicious fruits & honey tea. Get a chance to listen to the Southern Vietnamese folk music which is performed by local people.
Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the late afternoon. Free.
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City
Free and easy till pickup to transfer to the Resort in Mui Ne – Phan Thiet. Enjoy your free time to relax at beautiful beach resort.
Sand Dune in Mui Ne
Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Vietnam, Mui Ne is a tranquil paradise that seamlessly blends relaxation and natural beauty. With its golden sand dunes and azure waters, Mui Ne offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As the sun gently dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into a breathtaking canvas of warm hues, making for unforgettable sunsets by the beach. Whether you’re unwinding on the sandy shores, indulging in delectable seafood at beachside restaurants, or embarking on a kite surfing adventure, Mui Ne’s charm captivates every traveler.
A Beach in Mui Ne
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Mui Ne
Enjoy your free time to relax and explore Mui Ne
A Fishing Village in Mui Ne
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Mui Ne
Enjoy your free time to explore Mui Ne till pickup to transfer to the HCMC airport for departure flight. Trip ends.
Note*: Late checkout is not included.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: n/a
Important Note*
Note*:
Note*: Once all flights have been issued, additional cancellation charge of US$180/person for the 2 included flights.
Note*: The rate for children applicable for one child sharing a twin or double cabin with two adults
Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call the travel consultant whom you deal with and then our hot line contact. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please send us a detailed message and contact information by email, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.
Our all travel consultants use WhatApps. Please ensure that you have the contact number. It's best to buy a local sim-card. Most hotels offer free wifi. So it's very easy to contact in urgent case.
Emergency contact numbers
Mr. Kelvin Do: +84 986759655
Ms. Thuy Pham: +84 984654964
If you book small group tour option, please note that the tour combines with our other tours. As such, the staff and/or particular vehicles operating your tour may change between tour segments. You may also expect some group members to join or leave the tour, between tour segments.
You can start the tour on any date (please contact our consultant in advance to avoid peak dates or holidays) and customize itinerary with extra days/activities at any destination.
If you book private tour for your group, we will use private cars, different stationed guides at each location. For some long routes (or Halong/Mekong cruise package), private car would be not necessary, and very expensive (unless you are a big group). We would suggest join bus transfer where possible then.
For all internal flights - if included, we would use any as Vietnamairlines, Vietjesair, Jestar, Cambodia Angkorair or Laos Airlines, depending on the itinerary. Most domestic flights in Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar, airlines would use small 70 seat ATR72 for short distances. Most airlines in Vietnam use the Airbus A321. 20kg for checkin luggage and 7kg for hand-bag is included in the price.
International flights pre/post tour must be booked by your self before travelling date.
Please do not buy gems unless you know what you are doing. Even if genuine you should not expect to be able to sell them at home. If you fall victim to a gem scam, we are unable to assist you.
Train travel in Vietnam is very basic and not at western standard. Sleeper trains normally have 4 seats per compartment, which convert into sleeping bunks (two upper and two lower). A sheet, pillow and blanket are provided. At times, passengers of different genders may be required to share a sleeper train berth and/or share a compartment with people not travelling in your group. For short distance - 3 hours (as Hue to Danang or vv), you will do the trip on soft/hard seat carriage.
Simple food is available on the train but many people like to stock up on freshly baked bread, cheese and fruit prior to departure. You should have meal and buy water before the journey.
Train journeys in Vietnam are an experience and allow you to get a real taste of Vietnam.
We would use different hotel categories and you can select any basing on your budget. So your travel companions would not stay at the your hotel. A Hotel Voucher will be provided once your tour is confirmed with all hotel details. In case suggested hotels are full, we would use others of similar standard/price.
Note*: if you want other hotels instead of our suggested ones, please contact us for details.
Yes, there is. Free wifi is available at all hotels in Vietnam.
Most of the cafe, hotel, Shop, Restaurants in Vietnam also provide free wifi.
Compare to other neighboring countries, Wifi access in Vietnam is so much convenient.
All airport transfers are included in the tour price. You should provide us your arrival/departure flight details and we will arrange things basing on the information. A meeting sign with your name and all flight details will be sent to you. Please be ready at the lobby at pointed time for pickup.
Driver/guide should always be present at the airport before your arrival time. If you could not find the driver, please contact your travel consultant who you deal with. For any reason that airport transfer could not be arranged, please take the taxi to the hotel. We will refund the money then.
Travel insurance is not included in our tour price. When travelling with us, you are suggested to buy insurance that covers all medical coverage, cancellation, personal liability, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects.
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travelers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelry at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.
Be aware that petty theft can be an issue in some towns and cities especially late at night. A common tactic is opportunists on motorbikes that drive by and snatch bags. Please always leave valuables and passports etc in your hotel in safety boxes if available and only carry with you enough cash to spend for the day. Bags should always be carried over the neck and not left to sit on your shoulder.
Conservative Dress
Note*: Please pack clothing for the season in which you will be travelling. From Dec-Feb weather can be cold, so please pack warm clothing. From May-Nov it is the wet season, so please bring waterproof clothing.
Documents
It is customary in Asia to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is expected - though not compulsory - and shows an expression of satisfaction with the people who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $3-$5 USD per person per day depending on the quality and length of the service.
Indochina Countries use 220V, and a mixture of flat 2-pin, round 2-pin or 3 pin plugs. It is recommended to bring a universal plug adapter.
Please note that visas for Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos are the responsibility of the individual traveler. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. For the most up to date information please check your Governments Foreign Ministry website or with you travel agent as rules do change.
CAMBODIA - Visas can be obtained at the Cambodian border or Siem Reap Airport for approx. $35 USD very easily. Please have *at least* 2 passport photos with you as well.
VIETNAM - As of March 2017, a select 80 nationalities are now eligible to enter Vietnam with an E-Visa. Please contact your Foreign Ministry or Vietnamese consulate to see if your nationality is eligible. Please note that you should ONLY apply for a Vietnam E-Visa if you are entering Vietnam by international airport - either Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi) or Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City).
If you are entering Vietnam by land border, please apply for a regular visa for Vietnam. Many of the land borders we travel through do not accept the Vietnam E-Visa. Please view this link to apply E-Visa: https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/web/guest/trang-chu-ttdt
We will help you apply an approval letter for visa on arrival if you enter Vietnam through international airports. You will have to pay for stamping fees to the custom at the airport.
LAOS - Visas are issued upon arrival in Laos. You will need two passport size photographs and approx $35. Tourists are generally admitted to Laos for 15 days with a visa on arrival or for 30 days with a visa issued at a Lao embassy. Please bring visa photos with you.
Please be aware that you will require four clean pages (minimum) in your passport and at least six months validity.
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Embarking on this Vietnam 3 week itinerary is an invitation to immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of this captivating country. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the tranquil beaches of Mui Ne, each destination unveils a unique facet of Vietnam’s culture, history, and natural splendor.
Hanoi: Your journey commences in Hanoi, a city of contrasts that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. Explore the historical Old Quarter, its maze-like streets revealing hidden temples, street food stalls, and colonial architecture. Delve into the country’s history at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature.
Hanoi
Sapa: Moving north, Sapa offers an immersive experience in the heart of the lush mountains. Trek through terraced rice fields, encountering the daily lives of ethnic minority communities. Witnessing the sunrise over Fansipan’s peak, often referred to as the “Roof of Indochina,” is an awe-inspiring moment.
Sapa Rice Terrance
Ninh Binh: Transitioning to Ninh Binh, you’ll be captivated by its enchanting karst landscapes and intricate waterways. Embark on a serene boat ride through the Trang An Grottoes, weaving through caves and past emerald rice fields.
Ninh Binh
Ha Long Bay: A journey to Vietnam isn’t complete without a cruise through the legendary Ha Long Bay. Admire the surreal beauty of its limestone formations, explore hidden caves, and witness the sunsets that paint the waters in shades of gold.
Halong Bay
Hoi An: The town’s lantern-lit streets transport you to a bygone era. Hoi An’s Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts preserved architecture reflecting its history as a bustling port. Engage with local artisans and savor exquisite cuisine.
Hoian Ancient Town
Hue: Continuing south, the imperial city of Hue resonates with history. The grandeur of the Imperial Citadel and the tranquility of the Perfume River provide insights into Vietnam’s regal past.
Hue – Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City: A bustling metropolis, Ho Chi Minh City offers a modern contrast to Vietnam’s historic sites. Visit the War Remnants Museum and experience the city’s vibrant street life.
Ho Chi Minh City
Mekong Delta: Embark on a journey along the Mekong River, where life revolves around its intricate waterways. Explore floating markets, lush orchards, and traditional villages.
Mekong Delta
Mui Ne: Concluding your expedition, Mui Ne’s idyllic beaches and ethereal sand dunes provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation. Unwind, reflecting on the diverse experiences that have enriched your journey.
Mui Ne Beach
Embarking on this Vietnam 3 week itinerary isn’t just a vacation; it’s a transformative journey through history, culture, and natural beauty. From the northern mountains to the southern coastline, every destination adds a new layer to your understanding of Vietnam’s captivating essence.
| Cities | 3* Hotels | 4* hotels | 5* Hotels |
| Hanoi | Hanoian Central Hotel & Spa | Golden Silk Boutique | Oriental Jade |
| Sapa | Sapa Panorama Hotel | Sapa Amazing Hotel | Victoria Resort |
| Halong Bay Cruise | Swan Cruise | La Regina Cruise | Sealife Legend |
| Ninh Binh | Tam Coc Friendly homestay | Lalita Boutique Hotel | |
| Hue | Hue Orchid hotel | Hue Eldora | Imperial Hotel |
| Hoian | Kim Ann Hoi An | Vinh Hung Riverside | Victoria Hoian Resort |
| Ho Chi Minh | Queen Ann Hotel | Alagon D'Antique hotel & Spa | Renaissance Riverside |
| Phnom Penh | Saravoan Royal Palace | Harmony Phnom Penh Hotel | Shokha Phnom Penh |
| Siem Reap | Angkor Holiday Hotel | Somadevi Angkor | Shokha Angkor |
Note*:
Depending on your budget, you can choose a suitable hotel category
Early checking/late checkout are not included and you can change the to any other hotels and room type if required. Additional charge/discount will be made accordingly
The list of hotels are used for our all tour itineraries which may includes Cambodia
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