Best of Vietnam - Premium Adventure

14 days
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4.7/5 Excellent
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Small Group Tour
Experience the very best of Vietnam: Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Hue and Hoi An, the Mekong Delta, and Lan Ha Bay – the lesser-known (but no less sensational) twin of Ha Long Bay. Guided by an expert local tour leader, we experience everything that makes Vietnam a cultural adventurer’s dream, from Michelin-starred dining to world-famous street food, natural w...
26%
$5,238
From$3,880
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Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy

Highlights

    • Uncover the best of Vietnam: ancient cultures, revered cuisine and natural wonders
    • Enjoy Michelin-starred Vietnamese food with a welcome dinner at Tam Vi in Hanoi
    • Cruise among the limestone peaks of Lan Ha Bay with sunset drinks and morning tai chi
    • Traverse the Mekong Delta by boat, meeting the local people and learning about their lives
    • Experience Ninh Binh's highlights: the historic Dinh Le King temples and a scenic journey down the Ngo Dong River
    • Stay at several Premium properties, including a luxury silk village in Hoi An and a Lan Ha Bay boat

What's this trip about?

    Experience the very best of Vietnam: Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Hue and Hoi An, the Mekong Delta, and Lan Ha Bay – the lesser-known (but no less sensational) twin of Ha Long Bay. Guided by an expert local tour leader, we experience everything that makes Vietnam a cultural adventurer’s dream, from Michelin-starred dining to world-famous street food, natural wonders to ancient temples and ruins. Best of all, we end most nights in Premium accommodations, providing a bit of luxury and plenty of comfort.From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City: Discover the natural and cultural treasures of this diverse Southeast Asian nation

Details

Itinerary focusClassic Highlights
Group sizeSmall Group - max of 16 people
Age range16 years and up
Flights and transportN/A
Start CityHanoi
End CityHo Chi Minh City

Travel Themes

  • Cultural
  • Nature & Wildlife

Destinations

  • Asia
  • Vietnam

Attractions

  • Hanoi
  • Ho Chi Minh
  • Hoi An

Activities

  • Culture
  • Nature

Min Group Size

  • Min Group Size: 4

Max Group Size

  • Max Group Size: 16

Trip includes

    • All breakfasts, nine lunches and six dinners
    • All listed accommodation
    • Tips for local staff
    • Named tour leader, chosen for their experience and great customer feedback
    • All transport and listed activities
    • Free arrival and departure transfers for everyone

Itinerary

Day 1 Start Hanoi; welcome dinner at Michelin-starred Tam Vi

Welcome to Hanoi, the culture-rich capital of Vietnam. Depending on your arrival time, you might like to start exploring this fascinating city by strolling the broad tree-lined avenues dating from the French period. There is a fading colonial ambiance here, with bague...

Day 2 City tour; Hanoian dish for lunch; Explore the largest market in the city

Embark on a sightseeing tour of Hanoi this morning, visiting the Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house, and the One Pillar Pagoda, a historic Buddhist temple built to resemble a lotus blossom. For lunch, we head to a local eatery that serves excellent bun c...

Day 3 Transfer to Hoa Lu in Ninh Binh; Ngo Dong River boat trip; explore Tam Coc

Our first destination today (after a two-hour transfer) is Hoa Lu in the Ninh Binh province, capital of Vietnam during the Dinh Dynasty (968-980) and early Le Dynasty (980-1009). Here we visit the Dinh Le King temples, among the most sacred structures in the district ...

Day 4 Tour Save Vietnam's Wildlife; visit Cuc Phuong National Park

After breakfast, we take a one-hour transfer to Save Vietnam’s Wildlife, a non-profit dedicated to wildlife and ecosystem conservation. At the centre, we meet a SVW co-ordinator who takes us on a tour to learn more about their preservation efforts and the endangered a...

Day 5 To Lan Ha Bay; explore the Dark and Bright caves; sundowners on deck

We make an early start for the approximate 81mi (130km) journey to Lan Ha Bay, where incredible karst islands and limestone outcrops mirror those at the better-known (and busier) Ha Long Bay. After arrival, we board our Premium boat and spend the afternoon cruising t...

Day 6 Early morning tai chi; visit Trung Trang cave on Cat Ba Island; afternoon flight to Hue

Rise early for tai chi on deck, followed by our final chance to relax and take in the beauty of the bay. As the boat heads back to the harbour, we enjoy lunch. Afterwards, we transfer to Cat Ba Island to join a tour of Trung Trang Cave. Here we see impressive limesto...

Day 7 Visit Thanh Tien paper flower village; traditional tea tasting; visit the tomb of Emperor Minh Mang

After breakfast, we visit Thanh Tien village, which has been making paper flowers for more than 300 years. We also experience a Hue-style tea tasting at Tra Dinh Vu Di teahouse, learning from our host about the benefits of drinking royal tea and how to make a cup. Th...

Day 8 Morning visit to the Imperial Citadel; transfer to Hoi An for a walking tour and visit Hoi An temple; free afternoon

Visit the Imperial Citadel this morning, the standout attraction in Hue. Inside 6mi (10km) long walls are the palaces and halls of the Mandarins, and the remains of the Forbidden Purple City, where only the emperor, his eunuchs and concubines were allowed. The Forbidd...

Day 9 To Duy Xuyen village; bamboo basket boat ride; return to Hoi An

Take a 20-minute transfer this morning to the tranquil village of Duy Xuyen (also known as Duy Vinh), which is renowned for its traditional handicrafts, particularly weaving. First, we hop into basket boats for a 30-minute ride past coconut wetlands. We also visit a ...

Day 10 Free day in Hoi An; options to visit My Son or join a Vietnamese cooking class

Today is free to enjoy Hoi An – a hot spot for culturally curious adventurers. Options include visiting My Son, the spiritual home of the Cham civilisation, where Cham kings were buried as long ago as the fourth century. Although bombing has destroyed much of the site...

Day 11 Fly to Ho Chi Minh City; visit the Reunification Palace

We drive to Da Nang (approximately 45 minutes) and then fly (approximately 1hr 30min) to Ho Chi Minh City, an exciting metropolis where scooters pack the streets and temples stand alongside modern developments. After arrival, we take a short bus trip to the Reunifica...

Day 12 Visit the Mekong Delta; cruise through the waterways; overnight at riverside lodge

In the morning, we transfer (approximately two hours) to Cai Be in the Mekong Delta. Often referred to as the rice bowl of Vietnam, this region is known for its lush coconut groves, beautiful scenery, and rich cultural heritage. Take a boat trip and explore the intric...

Day 13 Return to Ho Chi Minh City; free afternoon and farewell dinner

Today we drive back to Ho Chi Minh City (approximately two hours) where the afternoon is free. You may wish to visit the Ben Thanh Market or the War Remnants Museum. The museum has an interesting photographic record of the Vietnam War but please note that some images ...

Day 14 End Ho Chi Minh City

This cultural adventure ends after breakfast. There are free transfers to Ho Chi Minh City Airport from the end hotel. Alternatively, if you’d like more time to explore this fascinating destination, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.

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Dates & Availability

Price From $3,880
Price per day$277
Last Updated: 11/8/2024

Check current availability, prices, specials & more.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Exodus Travels Reviews & Ratings

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Tour Operator

Exodus Travels

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It is all about adventure. That is what Exodus was founded upon and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on.

At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved.

This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday.

Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments.

All our office staff have a passion for travel and adventure, and between us we’ve notched up experience that spans 171 different countries. That’s not all. In their former lives, our team members have been professional archaeologists, wildlife guides, overland drivers, mountain leaders, diving and ski specialists and mountain bike gurus – so no-one is better placed to create tours that appeal to a wide range of specialist interests.

Their care in putting all the details in place really shines through too. Extensive planning, research, fact-finding and training are a sign of our commitment to providing a holiday where your enjoyment, value for money and safety come first. It’s a telling reason why we remain one of the leading worldwide adventure tour companies. It is no exaggeration to say that our tour leaders can make a world of difference to the enjoyment of your holiday – so we choose them carefully. The result is that, in 2013, 93% of our clients stated that their leader exceeded their expectations. Where possible, we train and employ local leaders because they can provide invaluable insights that enrich the trip. What’s more, this investment in local staff really helps us benefit both them and their community.

Why we love this operator
With a wide range of trip styles, Exodus caters to every type of traveler out there- even those with specific interests from cycling to winter hiking.
What they’re known for
Global trips to a wide array of destinations with a focus on themed adventures, exciting physical activities and learning about local cultures.

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Logistics

What's excluded

    • Tip for the tour leader
    • Travel insurance
    • Single accommodation (available on request)
    • Visa or vaccinations
    • Early check in on arrival and late check out on departure available on request (additional cost)

Accommodation

For this Premium adventure through Vietnam, we curated accommodation for their location, comfort, style and unique characteristics. The hotels typically used are on the daily itinerary. However, below are some of the standout places we stay. Lan Ha Bay: La Regina Legend Cruise (night 5) Experience captivating Lan Ha Bay from the comfort of La Regina Legend, an enchanting Vietnamese cruise that combines modern comfort and luxury, as we sail through emerald waters, surrounded by majestic cliffs and lush islands. Enjoy views over the striking scenery from your deluxe/executive cabin or head to the sundeck. The latter is a prime spot for sunset, which you can experience with a drink in your hand. Hue: Pilgrimage Village Resort & Spa (nights 6-7) Enjoy this traditional Vietnamese resort in the quiet countryside, which is set amid lush gardens and lily ponds. You can also try a myriad of experiences, from the naturally inspired spa treatments to tai chi, yoga and even some chakra cleansing. It’s also near historic landmarks and the city of Hue. Hoi An: Mulberry Collection Silk Village (nights 8-10) Secluded from Hoi An’s bustling centre nearby, this luxurious resort has been modelled on an old silk village, breathing new life into the 300-year-old history of the Maritime Silk Road. A silk museum keeps that cultural heritage going, while excellent dining options, pools and a spa round out the offerings. Worth knowing The accommodation shown has been booked and agreed in advance; however, we may need to make changes to a property of similar or higher standard after you have booked. We endeavour to inform you of any changes in advance, which could, on rare occasions, be at late notice. The Lan Ha Bay cruise ship may have other guests on board at the same time.
Cancellation policy

The cancellation policies of this trip when booked through Travelstride are determined by the stated policies of the tour operator - Exodus Travels.

If you or any other member of your party decides to cancel a confirmed booking you must notify Travelstride in writing. Your notice of cancellation will only take effect when it is received in writing by Travelstride and will be effective from the date on which we receive it.

If You Cancel Your Holiday
You, or any member of your party, may cancel your travel arrangements at any time. Written notification from the lead name or your travel agent must be received at our offices. 

Since we incur costs in canceling your travel arrangements, you will have to pay cancellation charges as follows (see also the exceptions below): 

  • More than 42 days - No cancellation fee. Deposit can be transferred to a new booking departing within 2 years of date of travel of original booking. Any remaining balance will be refundedThis excludes all non-refundable costs as set out in clause 4 above (for example international and domestic flights and local services).
  • Between 41 and 21 days (inclusive) - No cancellation fee. Balance and deposit can be transferred to a new booking departing within 2 years of date of travel of original bookingThis excludes all non-refundable costs as further explained in clause 4 above (for example international and domestic flights and local services).
  • Between 20 and 15 days (inclusive) - 80% of the holiday cost
  • 14 days or less; or failure to join the holiday (inclusive) - 100% of the holiday cost

Certain trips may involve different cancellation charges; you will be advised if this is applicable to your holiday during the booking process.For Polar holidays, the following cancellation charges will be made for all Polar holidays. Period before departure in which you notify us: 

Cancelation charge

  • More than 133 days - Deposit only
  • 133 days or less (or failure to join the holiday) (inclusive) - 100% of the holiday cost

Notes (i) Your deposit is non-refundable, even if the cancellation charge calculated is lower than the deposit amount paid; (ii) If the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges; (iii) certain travel arrangements may be subject to higher cancellation charges and could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements from the moment the booking is confirmed.

If You Change Your Booking

If, after our Booking Confirmation has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, for example your chosen departure date or accommodation, we will do our utmost to make these changes but it may not always be possible. Any request for changes to be made must be in writing from the lead name or your travel agent. You will be asked to pay an administration charge of $60, and any further cost we incur in making this alteration (including those charged by third party suppliers who provide the component parts of your booking).  You should be aware that these costs could increase the closer to the departure date that changes are made and you should contact us as soon as possible. Note: Certain travel arrangements may not be changeable after a reservation has been made and any alteration request could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.

You can transfer your booking to another person, who satisfies all the conditions that apply to this booking, by giving us notice in writing at least 7 days before departure provided that the new lead passenger accepts the transfer and these Terms and Conditions. Both you and the new traveler are responsible for paying all costs we incur in making the transfer. Please bear in mind that certain airlines and other transport providers treat changes as a cancellation and charge accordingly, up to 100% of the cost for that part of the arrangement. Where applicable these charges will be passed on to you.

If We Cancel Your Booking

Exodus reserves the right to cancel an itinerary before departure for any reason whatsoever, including too few participants ,logistical problems, a Force Majeure Event (as defined in Section 8), or any other circumstances that may make operation of the trip inadvisable. All trip payments received will be promptly refunded, and this refund will be the limit of Exodus’s liability without any further obligation on Exodus’s part. Exodus is not responsible for any expenses incurred by trip members in preparing for the trip, including non-refundable or penalty-carrying airline tickets, special clothing, visa or passport fees, or other trip-related expenses.

If We Change Your Booking

  1. Changes to the price. We can change your holiday price after you’ve booked, only in certain circumstances. Changes in the price of the carriage of passengers resulting from changes to the cost of fuel or other power sources, the level of taxes or fees imposed by third parties including tourist taxes, landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports, or exchange rates mean that the price of your travel arrangements may change after you have booked.

  2. Changes other than the price. It is a term of your booking that we are able to make changes to any aspect of your booking. If the change is insignificant, we will ensure that you are notified about it. Examples of insignificant changes include alteration of your accommodation to another of the same or higher standard. If we are forced by circumstances beyond our control to alter significantly any of the main characteristics of the travel services that make up your package you will have the rights set out below.

    2.1 - We will contact you and you will have the choice of accepting the change or having a refund of all monies paid. You can also accept an alternative holiday, where we offer one (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value). We will tell you the procedure for making your choice. Please read any notification of changes carefully and respond promptly as if you do not respond to us within the timescale given your booking may be canceled.

    2.2 - If you choose to accept a refund then that is the only liability we have and we will not be liable for any further sums, compensation or otherwise and you are advised to adequately insure yourselves against cancellation for any reason

Please note that insurance premiums and amendments charges are not refundable in any circumstances. 

Once you have put down a deposit for a tour, you are unable to cancel and re-book within a promotional period and we reserve the right to amend the pricing on any new booking you make within that time. If you cancel a tour and book the same tour under a promotional code, we reserve the right to decline the booking.

Important Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended after they have been confirmed and any alteration or cancellation could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements in addition to the charge above.

If the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges.

Where possible, we will deduct the cancellation charge(s) from any monies you have already paid to us.

For more additional details, see the booking conditions of TruTravels at the following web address: https://www.exodustravels.com/us/about-exodus/exodus-booking-conditions.

Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin and your country of destination. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the relevant requirements. For a handy tool that can help you quickly find the requirements, please visit this link .
Meals Included
All breakfasts, nine lunches and six dinners are included. Thanks to the tropical climate, long coast and gigantic range of mountains, Vietnam is blessed with a variety of culinary offerings, and maintains a reputation as one of the healthiest, most delicious cuisines in the world. Vietnamese food relies on fresh fish, vegetables, rice and a myriad of verdant herbs and spices. 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 a steaming bowl of pho (noodle soup). Be sure to seek out the national beverages: Vietnamese coffee is served iced and sweet with condensed milk, a real sugar and caffeine hit, 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. Western food is also available in most places visited. Food is cheap in Vietnam and you can generally avoid the spicier dishes if you wish. Western food is readily available almost everywhere, except for the Mekong Delta area. 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.
Age Requirements
16 years and up
Additional Information
  • Accommodation: 10 Premium nights (7 resort, 2 hotel, 1 cruise), 3 Superior nights (2 hotel, 1 lodge)
  • Travel by private air-conditioned minibus, two flights and a boat
  • Group normally 4 to 16 plus leader
Trip ID
exodus-AOW

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