VIETNAM EXPLORER:

Journey Through the Highlights

| EVT12C | 12 DAYS |

OPEN TO BE CUSTOMIZED FOR PRIVATE TOUR OR JOINNING SMALL GROUP

Embark on an unforgettable biking adventure across Vietnam, starting from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Cycle through lush rice terraces, vibrant local villages, and tranquil valleys. Continue to the stunning limestone karsts of Halong Bay, the charming ancient town of Hoi An, and the dynamic Ho Chi Minh City. Conclude with a ride through the lush Mekong Delta, exploring floating markets and rural canals. This tour blends Vietnam’s breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant local life, making it a perfect journey for biking enthusiasts.

BRIEF ITINERARY

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN HANOI

DAY 2: HANOI CITY TOUR

DAY 3: HANOI - PU LUONG

DAY 4: PU LUONG - HANOI

DAY 5: HANOI - HALONG BAY

DAY 6: HALONG BAY - FLY TO HOI AN

DAY 7: HOI AN HIGHLIGHTS

DAY 8: HOI AN FREE DAY

DAY 9: HOI AN- HO CHI MINH CITY

DAY 10: CU CHI TUNNELS & CITY TOUR

DAY 11: HO CHI MINH CITY - MEKONG DELTA

DAY 12: HO CHI MINH CITY DEPARTURE

DETAILED ITINERARY

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN HANOI

Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam!

Upon your arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by your Epic Vietnam Tours guide and escorted to your hotel via private transfer. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or begin your own exploration of the city.

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, sits along the banks of the Red River and is one of the world’s oldest cities. Here, you’ll discover a blend of well-preserved colonial architecture, ancient Buddhist pagodas, and unique museums. The best way to experience the charm of its Old Quarter is by foot, wandering through narrow streets filled with history. This French-colonial city is also famous for its delectable cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and plenty of opportunities for souvenir shopping.

DAY 2: HANOI CITY TOUR

Today, immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Vietnam’s capital with a full-day tour of Hanoi's iconic landmarks.
Start your journey at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you’ll learn about the life and legacy of the revered leader.
Next, visit Ho Chi Minh's traditional house-on-stilts and the unique One Pillar Pagoda, a symbol of Hanoi's architectural ingenuity.
Continue to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, renowned for its serene courtyards and historical significance.

Enjoy authentic local cuisine at a restaurant in town.

After lunch, you'll have the option to visit one of the following fascinating museums based on your interests:

Ethnology Museum: Showcasing Vietnam's diverse ethnic groups.

Army Museum: Exploring the military history of Vietnam.

National Fine Arts Museum: Featuring traditional and contemporary Vietnamese art.

Hanoi Hilton (Hoa Lo Prison): A historic prison from the French colonial era.

Vietnam Women’s Museum: Dedicated to the history and achievements of Vietnamese women.

After your museum visit, take a leisurely stroll or enjoy a cyclo ride through Hanoi's bustling Old Quarter, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this lively part of the city.

End your day with a traditional Water Puppet Show, a captivating cultural performance that brings Vietnamese folklore to life on stage.

DAY 3: HANOI - PU LUONG

Day Trip to Pu Luong Nature Reserve

Begin your adventure with a pick-up from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Prepare for a scenic 4.5-hour drive to Pu Luong Nature Reserve, making a short stop along the way to stretch and enjoy the stunning views.

Arrival in Pu Luong where a delicious lunch will be served upon your arrival. Afterward, check in to your reserved room and take a moment to relax.

After lunch, embark on a 4.5 km trek to Ban Cong village. Cross a charming wooden bridge that leads you to one of Pu Luong's most picturesque spots, where the region's largest stream flows. As you trek, marvel at the breathtaking rice terraces and observe the local village life.

Giant Water Wheel:A highlight of your trek is visiting the giant water wheel, an impressive engineering marvel traditionally used by local ethnic minorities for irrigation.
After your day of exploration, return to your accommodation for a delightful dinner. Enjoy a cozy overnight stay surrounded by the tranquility of Pu Luong Nature Reserve.

DAY 4: PU LUONG - HANOI

After a hearty breakfast, bid farewell to your welcoming host family and embark on a scenic trek through the picturesque valleys of Pu Luong. This trek begins right from your homestay, guiding you along small paths that offer breathtaking views of limestone mountains enveloped in dense forests and vibrant green rice terraces.

As you trek through the valleys, you’ll have the chance to meet locals at their stilt houses, providing a unique opportunity to learn about their daily lives and rich cultural heritage.

After 2 hours hikking around the car will pick you up to the restaurant and then back to Hanoi

DAY 5: HANOI - HALONG BAY

Halong Bay, located in northeast Vietnam, is celebrated for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1994, this breathtaking destination is not to be missed, particularly with an overnight experience aboard a traditional wooden junk boat.

Transfer from Hanoi to Halong Bay Pier:Start your journey with a scenic drive from Hanoi to the Halong Bay pier, soaking in the beautiful landscapes along the way.

Board Your Cruise:Upon arrival, board your boat and embark on a memorable cruise through Halong Bay.

Lunch Onboard:Savor a delicious lunch as you set sail, surrounded by the stunning karst formations and picturesque scenery that define the bay.
Engage in a variety of activities throughout the day, including kayaking through the emerald waters, swimming in secluded spots, and sunbathing on the deck while enjoying panoramic views of the bay.

Dinner Aboard:Relish a delightful dinner served on the boat, all while continuing to marvel at the breathtaking views as the sun sets over Halong Bay.

Unwind in your en-suite cabin, immersed in the tranquil beauty of Halong Bay, as you listen to the gentle sounds of the water lapping against the boat.

DAY 6: HALONG BAY - FLY TO HOI AN

Early Start on Deck:Begin your day with some fresh air on the open deck of the cruise ship. Enjoy the serene beauty of Halong Bay as the sun rises over the emerald waters.
Tai Chi Class (Optional):If you’re interested, join a Tai Chi class for a gentle morning exercise that enhances your mind-body connection and allows you to appreciate the tranquil surroundings.
Breakfast:After your morning activities, enjoy a delicious breakfast on board, prepared by the crew.
Cruising and Cave Visit:Following breakfast, the crew will raise the anchor, and the cruise will resume, taking you further into the stunning scenery of Halong Bay.
A visit to a large limestone cave is scheduled, where you can marvel at the impressive rock formations and learn about the geology and history of the area.
Early Lunch (Brunch):As the boat begins its journey back to the pier, savor an early lunch (brunch) on board. Enjoy local and international dishes while soaking in the picturesque views of the bay.
Disembarkation:Around noon, disembark from the boat at the pier.
Drive to Noi Bai Airport:After disembarking, you will take a scenic drive back to Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi for your flight to Da Nang.

DAY 7: HOI AN HIGHLIGHTS

Fishing Village and Countryside Experience

Morning: Fishing Village and Countryside Experience

Breakfast at Your Hotel:Start your day with a hearty breakfast to fuel your adventures.
Boat Ride to Fishing Village:After breakfast, you'll be picked up and taken to the boat dock for a short ride to a nearby fishing village.
Witness the daily life of the local fishing community, learning about their traditional methods and practices.
Basket Boat Ride:Experience a ride in a traditional round basket boat, unique to this region, as you float through the serene waterways.
Countryside Cycling:After the boat experience, embark on a scenic bicycle ride through the peaceful countryside.
Cycle along quiet roads surrounded by lush rice fields, coconut groves, and corn fields, offering a glimpse into rural life in Vietnam.
Afternoon: Discover Historic Hoi An

Return to Hoi An Town:After the countryside excursion, head back to Hoi An for a guided walking tour.
Historic Highlights:
Cam Pho Communal House:
A beautifully preserved traditional building used for community gatherings and events.
Japanese Covered Bridge:
One of Hoi An’s most iconic landmarks, built in the early 17th century as a symbol of the Japanese community’s presence in the city.
Quan Thang Ancient House:
A 17th-century merchant’s home showcasing traditional architecture and decoration.
Fujian Assembly Hall:
A vibrant temple complex built by Chinese immigrants, dedicated to the goddess of the sea, where sailors prayed for protection.

Hoi An Central Market:Visit the bustling market to observe daily life and discover fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies.
Return to Your Hotel:After a day filled with unique experiences and cultural immersion, you'll be driven back to your hotel in the late afternoon or early evening, wrapping up an unforgettable day in Hoi An.

DAY 8: HOI AN - MY SON HOLLY LAND

My Son and Hoi An Exploration

Breakfast at Your Hotel:Start your day with a hearty breakfast to fuel your adventures.
Journey to My Son Holy Land:Depart for My Son, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located just an hour from Hoi An.
Explore My Son:Discover the ancient Hindu temple ruins dating back to the 4th century AD. Marvel at the intricate architecture and learn about the rich history of the Champa Kingdom, all set against a stunning natural backdrop.
Return to Hoi An:Head back to Hoi An for lunch and some leisure time.
Free and Easy to Explore Hoi An:
Suggestions:Lantern-Making Workshop: Learn the ancient art of making traditional Hoi An lanterns in a hands-on workshop. Guided by skilled craftsmen, you’ll go through each step of the process, from shaping the bamboo frame to covering it with colorful silk fabric. Create a lantern to take home as a memorable souvenir.
Old Town Shopping: Alternatively, stroll around the old town for shopping, immersing yourself in the local culture and vibrant atmosphere.
Wrap Up:Head back to your hotel with your handmade souvenir and cherished memories you won’t forget.

DAY 9: HOI AN- HO CHI MINH CITY

Breakfast:Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel to fuel up for the day ahead.
Check-Out and Transfer:After breakfast, check out of your hotel. A driver will transfer you to the airport for your flight.
Flight to Ho Chi Minh City:The flight from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City typically takes around 1 hour.
Upon Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City:

Airport Transfer:After landing, you’ll be met by a driver who will transfer you to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.
Leisure Time:Once settled into your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
Feel free to relax, explore the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City, or enjoy a meal at a local restaurant.

DAY 10: CU CHI TUNNELS & CITY TOUR

Early Departure:Begin your day with an early morning departure to beat the crowds as you drive approximately 70 km to the Cu Chi Tunnels.
Cu Chi Tunnels Exploration:Upon arrival, explore the vast underground network used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. This extensive system of tunnels played a vital role in the conflict, showcasing the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people.
Learn about the living conditions in the tunnels, the strategies employed by the Viet Cong, and take the opportunity to crawl through a section of the tunnels yourself.
Return to Ho Chi Minh City:After your exploration, head back to the city for a delicious local lunch, reflecting on the morning’s historical experience

Notre Dame Cathedral:Visit this iconic French-colonial cathedral, a key landmark in the city, noted for its striking neo-Romanesque architecture.
Saigon Central Post Office:Located next to the cathedral, this historic building showcases elegant French colonial design and still functions as a post office today.
War Remnants Museum:A sobering but important stop, this museum offers insight into the Vietnam War from the Vietnamese perspective. Explore thought-provoking exhibits, photographs, and war relics that capture the complexities of this period.
Reunification Palace:Formerly the Presidential Palace of South Vietnam, this site witnessed the fall of Saigon in 1975. Walk through the historic halls and learn about the events that shaped modern-day Vietnam.

DAY 11: HO CHI MINH CITY - MEKONG DELTA

Mekong Delta Day Trip – Ben Tre

2.5-Hour Drive to Ben Tre: Start your day with a scenic drive from Ho Chi Minh City to Ben Tre, a region renowned for its lush coconut groves and traditional crafts.

Motorized Boat Cruise: Upon arrival, hop on a motorized boat for a scenic cruise along a tributary of the Mekong River. Enjoy the tranquil scenery of the delta as you glide through narrow canals.

Visit Local Craft Workshops:Coconut Candy Production: Learn how the famous coconut candies are made, a local specialty of Ben Tre.
Brick-Making Workshop: Witness the traditional brick-making process, using techniques passed down through generations.
Straw Mat Weaving: Observe local artisans hand-weaving beautiful straw mats, a common craft in the region.
Motor Cart Ride: Continue your exploration with a ride through the countryside on a motor cart, passing by lush fruit gardens, rice paddies, and picturesque rural landscapes.

Lunch in a Garden Restaurant: Enjoy a delicious and peaceful lunch at a garden restaurant, featuring Mekong specialties prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

Sampan Boat Ride: After lunch, relax on a traditional sampan boat as you drift along tranquil canals shaded by nipa palm trees, offering serene views of the Mekong Delta’s waterways.

Return to Ho Chi Minh City: After a memorable day in the Mekong Delta, head back to Ho Chi Minh City in the late afternoon.

Last Evening at Leisure: Enjoy your final evening in Vietnam at your own pace. Explore the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City, visit a local market, or enjoy a farewell dinner at a restaurant of your choice.

DAY 12: HO CHI MINH CITY DEPARTURE

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel and check out of your room. Depending on your flight time, you might have some free time to explore the city further or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs and local handicrafts.

At the designated time, meet your driver in the hotel lobby for your transfer to the airport. Upon arrival, proceed to check-in for your flight home or to your next exciting destination. As you depart, carry with you the unforgettable memories of your journey through Vietnam! Safe travels!

This sample itinerary is customizable to fit your travel preferences. For the latest pricing, please submit an inquiry with your travel dates, group size, and accommodation preferences, as pricing varies by season and accommodation choice.

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