Explore Vietnam and Laos Itinerary

12 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City

Embark on your Vietnam adventure in Saigon, immersing yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Spend the first two nights exploring highlights with a half-day tour and venture to the famous Cu Chi tunnels, experiencing history in a restored Russian army jeep or air-conditioned vehicle.

Day 2: Mekong Delta Day Tour

“Embark on a one-day cruise excursion starting from Ho Chi Minh City with a drive to Cai Be – Phu An. Board the Cai Be Princess at 10:00 am and explore the vibrant Cai Be floating market. Visit local home factories, witness rice paste making, rice pop corn, coco candies, and longans drying processing. Cruise along the Mekong canals to Dong Hoa Hiep Island, discovering the scenic landscapes and observing rural life. Enjoy lunch at Le Longanier restaurant at La Residence de Phu An Resort, an Indochine style resort. The excursion concludes with a transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City in the mid-afternoon.

Day 3: Fly to Hoi An

Continue your journey to central Vietnam, arriving in the tranquil town of Hoi An. This traditional town boasts a beautiful stretch of sandy beach, well-preserved architecture, numerous tailor shops, excellent restaurants, and cooking schools. Hoi An is an ideal stop on your holiday, providing a perfect balance for relaxation and exploration.

Day 4: Drive to Hue

Continue your highlights tour with a short drive to Hue, the ancient capital of Vietnam. Explore the picturesque remains of the Imperial Citadel, visit royal tombs, and discover Buddhist pagodas in this historically rich city.

Day 5: Flight to Hanoi, Night Train to Sapa

Take a short morning flight to Hanoi, often referred to as ‘the Paris of the Orient’. After exploring the city in the afternoon, embark on an overnight sleeper train to Sapa, the charming mountain town. Arrive in Sapa early the next morning, providing an opportunity to explore the scenic surroundings..

Day 6: Sapa Touring

Discover the former French hill station of Sapa, providing a glimpse into Vietnam’s diverse ethnic and cultural tapestry. Engage with people from various hill tribes, immersing yourself in a rural lifestyle distinct from your own. The mountainous north, near the Chinese border, boasts breathtaking scenery. Tailor hikes through fertile valleys, lush rice paddies, and tiny hill-tribe villages based on your fitness level. For the adventurous, experience home-stays with local families or return to the comfort of your hotel in Sapa town. Explore vibrant ethnic minority markets on designated days, marveling at the colors and diverse offerings.

Day 7: Sapa Half Day Tour, Night Train to Hanoi

Embark on a morning trek to explore the picturesque villages of Lao Chai and Ta Van, home to the Black H’mong and Dzay ethnic minorities. Immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes of terraced paddies and green valleys as you interact with friendly locals. Return to the hotel for leisure time. In the afternoon, transfer to Lao Cai station for a night train journey back to Hanoi, with an overnight stay on the train.

Day 8: Drive to Halong Bay

Upon arrival at Hanoi train station around 5:00 am, proceed to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the new Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Marvel at the thousands of limestone karst pillars that create a breathtaking seascape. Stay overnight on a traditional junk, explore floating fishing villages, visit impressive caves, and enjoy activities such as kayaking and swimming in the bay during the summer months.

Day 9: Fly to Luang Prabang

Begin your day with a chance to witness the sunrise over the bay while enjoying tea or coffee. Cruise through Bai Tu Long Bay, exploring the floating fishing village of Vung Vieng and gaining insights into the locals’ daily life on the water. Return to the dock around noon and embark on a scenic drive back to Hanoi.

Day 10: Luang Prabang Touring

Start your day early at around 6:00 am to witness or participate in the traditional Lao almsgiving ritual to the monks. Experience the awe-inspiring sight of over 300 monks silently collecting alms. Your guide will provide insights into this significant ritual. Afterward, explore the Morning Market to see a variety of meats, vegetables, and spices used in local cooking. Return to your hotel for breakfast. Embark on a cruise up the Mekong River to the mouth of the Ou River. Visit the sacred Pak Ou Buddha Caves, a revered site for the Lao people. Pilgrims visit to place Buddha images inside the caves for merit. Stop at Ban Xang Khong to witness traditional Lao textile weaving on ancient wooden looms. Enjoy lunch before cruising back.

Day 11: Kuang Si Waterfall

Head south of town to the Kuang Si Waterfall, making a stop at the Living Crafts Centre on the way. Here, you can meet weavers and delve into the world of textiles, contributing to the preservation of traditional crafts. Continue to the Kuang Si Waterfall, where crystal-clear water cascades into inviting turquoise pools. Feel free to bring a bathing suit for a refreshing swim. Additionally, explore the nearby Sunbear Refuge to gain insights into the conservation efforts for these endangered creatures.

Day 12: Luang Prabang Departure

Relax on your own before catching your flight home.