Vietnam and Laos Culinary Tour Itinerary

11 Days

Day 1: Arrive at Luang Prabang

Arrive in Luang Prabang, the ancient capital of Laos, renowned for its fusion of traditional Lao architecture with European colonial structures. This well-preserved townscape showcases the harmonious blend of two distinct cultural traditions. Enjoy a private airport transfer to your hotel. Check-in and spend the rest of your time exploring at your own pace. (Note: If arriving in the morning, an afternoon walking tour to visit the town will be organized.)

Overnight at a hotel in Luang Prabang.

Day 2: Tamarind Riverside Cooking Class

Embark on a culinary adventure in Luang Prabang with an early morning tour of the city’s vibrant food market, exploring diverse ingredients and their uses. Next, at a picturesque lakeside location, participate in a hands-on cooking class, preparing and savoring six different dishes in open-air pavilions. Recipe cards are provided for you to take home.

In the afternoon, your half-day city tour commences with a visit to the Royal Palace Museum, showcasing intriguing artifacts. Explore the exquisite Wat Xiengthong, a masterpiece of classical Laotian architecture with low-sweeping roofs. Visit the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun and the sacred shrines of Wat Aham and Wat Mai.

Day 3: Morning Rituals, Elephant Camp, Trail of Falls

Participate in the unique daily morning ritual of offering alms to saffron-clad monks during an optional early start. This tradition, preserved in Laos, provides a fantastic opportunity to witness the monks collecting offerings from faithful residents. Return to the hotel for breakfast.

Take a moment to relax, followed by a drive to the Elephant Village for a brief introduction on handling elephants. Embark on an elephant ride to the Elephant Jungle Camp, crossing the Nam Khan River. Enjoy the scenic journey through local gardens, teak plantations, and natural forest to reach the Elephant Jungle Camp.

Embark on a short trek along the ‘Trail of Falls,’ tracing a natural stream from the mountains to the Tad Sae Waterfall. Enjoy crystal clear water cascading over limestone formations, forming pools surrounded by unique tropical vegetation. Be prepared to get wet and bring sandals, short trousers, and/or a swimsuit. Indulge in a picnic lunch in the jungle with refreshing drinking water. Explore the Tad Sae Waterfall and unwind in this serene setting before returning to the Elephant Village.

Conclude your adventure with a short boat trip along the Nam Khan River, returning from the Tad Sae Waterfall to the Elephant Village. At approximately 16:00 pm, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Luang Prabang.

Day 4: Flight to Hanoi

Take advantage of your free time in Luang Prabang until your flight to Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam. A private airport transfer will take you to your hotel in the city for check-in, and the remainder of the day is yours to explore at your leisure.

Day 5: Cooking and Sightseeing

Embark on a culinary adventure in Hanoi as you join a cooking class. Begin with a visit to the local market to learn about Vietnamese ingredients, then roll up your sleeves in the kitchen to prepare a delicious Vietnamese meal. After the class, enjoy a lunch featuring the dishes you’ve prepared.

In the afternoon, explore Hanoi with an English-speaking guide, including a cyclo tour of the Old Quarter’s ’36 streets.’ Conclude your day with a traditional water puppet show, a captivating art form originating from northern Vietnam.

Day 6: Depart for Halong Bay

Embark on a journey to Halong Bay, known for its breathtaking landscapes. Depart from Hanoi, and as you traverse the scenic countryside, anticipation builds for the legendary Halong Bay. Upon arrival, board a boat for an exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The cruise unfolds against a backdrop of 3,000 limestone islands rising dramatically from the emerald waters. Marvel at picturesque scenery, hidden grottoes, and limestone karst formations. The cruise includes opportunities for a leisurely swim in a secluded cove and visits to hidden grottoes beneath towering cliffs. Spend the night on the Junk Cruise, immersing yourself in the beauty of Halong Bay.

Day 7: Halong Bay to Hoi An

Begin your day with the serene experience of witnessing the sunrise over Halong Bay. Savor the moment with a cup of tea or coffee as you absorb the beauty of the bay’s landscape. Cruise through Bai Tu Long, exploring the floating fishing village of Vung Vieng and gaining insights into the locals’ daily life on the water.

As the cruise concludes, return to the dock around noon, marking the end of your Halong Bay adventure. Enjoy a scenic drive back to Hanoi, reflecting on the memorable moments and picturesque landscapes you encountered during your journey.

Day 8: Hoi An Cooking

Embark on a rich and comprehensive gourmet experience with a one-hour market tour, delving into Vietnamese ingredients and learning how to choose the freshest produce. An intensive session follows, providing insights into Vietnamese gastronomy, vegetables, herbs, and spices, along with hands-on experience in cutting techniques and cooking.

During the practical session, you’ll master the art of crafting Rice Paper Rolls, preparing Soup with Cabbage Leaf and Shrimp Parcels, grilling Chicken with Lime Leaves, creating Mango Salad, and mastering Crispy Hoi An Pancakes. Take home the provided recipes to recreate these culinary delights.

In the afternoon, enjoy a walking tour through the bustling fish and vegetable market, exploring the Old Quarters with landmarks such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, ancient Assembly Hall, and Phuc Kien Temple. A river trip along the Thu Bon River provides a picturesque view of Hoi An Ancient Town. As night falls, witness the town’s transformation with lantern-lit streets. Conclude the day with leisure time for souvenir shopping or a visit to tailor shops for unique, made-to-measure clothing.

Day 9: Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City

Enjoy a leisurely morning before your transfer to Danang airport for a one-hour flight with Vietnam Airlines to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Upon arrival, our local tour guide/driver will greet you. You’ll then experience a private transfer to the hotel, where you can check in and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Embrace the vibrant nightlife of Ho Chi Minh City and explore its exciting offerings.

Day 10: Sightseeing and Cooking

Embark on a culinary adventure with a visit to one of Ho Chi Minh City’s lively food markets alongside our Master Chef (8:00 am – 9:40 am). Immerse yourself in the vibrant local scene and gain insights into key ingredients used in Vietnamese cuisine. Return to the hotel for a private cooking class (10:00 am to 1:00 pm), where you’ll discover the secrets of crafting a delicious, locally-inspired meal.

In the afternoon, explore iconic landmarks such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, showcasing exquisite French colonial architecture, and the country’s largest Post Office, a testament to colonial influence. Visit Hau Temple, dedicated to the Goddess of Mothers and Newborn Babies, with its fascinating roof adorned with figurines. The tour concludes with a visit to the lively Ben Thanh Market, offering a diverse range of goods. Return to the hotel and enjoy dinner at Lemon Grass restaurant in the city.

Day 11: Ho Chi Minh Departure

Enjoy your leisure time in Ho Chi Minh City until it’s time for your departure. Our team will transfer you to the airport for your journey back home. We hope you’ve had a wonderful experience exploring Vietnam’s rich culture, history, and cuisine. Safe travels!