Price Includes:
- International flights in economy with Qantas
- 8 nights Standard accommodation
- Domestic flights in Vietnam
- 1 night onboard overnight junk boat
- 2 nights onboard overnight train
- Private Touring
- English speaking guide
- Meals as specified in itinerary (B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner)
- All transfers and transport
- Sightseeing excursions as outlined in itinerary
- Operated by Buffalo Tours
Itinerary
Day 1: Hanoi
On arrival in Hanoi you will be transferred to your hotel.
Day 2: Hanoi
Enjoy a personally guided city tour where Hanoi’s rich history will be unravelled and local life revealed, including a traditional cyclo tour through the narrow ancient streets of the exotic Old Quarter. In the evening board the overnight train to Lao Cai near the Chinese Border. B, L.
Day 3: Sapa
Arrive early morning and head into the hills of Sapa. Navigate small paths into valleys and along rivers, passing through small ethnic minority hill tribes such as the Black H’mong. They are proud of their culture and still keep their traditions and way of living, including their own language and traditional indigo blue, embroidered clothing. Today, hike into Ta Van village for the day and return to the comfort of a hotel in Sapa this evening. B, L
Day 4: Sapa - Hanoi
Today visit the Red Dao people, stopping at a waterfall along the way. The Red Dao women wear colourful red embroidery and coins on their clothing and red scarves on their heads. Some of the women have shaved off their eyebrows because of a Red Dao Legend. Afternoon at leisure in Sapa to explore local markets before boarding the overnight train back to Hanoi. B, L
Day 5: Hanoi - Halong Bay (shared group tour)
After an early traditional breakfast drive east to Halong Bay. With more than a thousand limestone peaks rising up from its emerald waters, this area is one of five World Heritage-listed sites in Vietnam. Spend the rest of the day exploring limestone caves, relaxing on the deck, swimming or kayaking in secluded lagoons, followed by a seafood feast for dinner. Spend the night onboard the Jewel of the Bay Junk Cruise. B, L, D
Day 6: Halong Bay - Hanoi
Wake up to the sun rising over the bay and enjoy an early morning swim, followed by breakfast and a visit to a spectacular cave. Transfer back to Hanoi. B, L
Day 7: Hanoi – Hue
In the early morning you will be transferred to the airport and fly south to the ancient town of Hue. The cultural capital of Vietnam is rich with history, culture and religion. Upon arrival in Hue you will take a city tour. Spend the day exploring the Citadel, home to the Royal Palace and Forbidden City (now a UNESCO World Heritage site) before a sunset cruise along the Perfume River. B, L
Day 8: Hue - Hoi An
Drive to Hoi An via the coastal Hai Van Pass, visiting the Cham museum along the way. The afternoon in Hoi An is at your leisure to shop at the tailors or relax on the beach. B
Day 9: Hoi An
Get your walking shoes on for a guided wander through this World Heritage town, before experiencing a real culinary treat – a cooking class! Hoi An is renowned for its culinary delights and you will get to enjoy the fruits of your efforts! B, L.
Day 10: Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
After lunch fly to Ho Chi Minh City. Spend the afternoon in the bustling city taking in the highlights of Saigon. B
Day 11: Mekong Delta (Small group tour)
Delve into the heart of the Mekong Delta on a cruise on a traditional sampan, exploring the fascinating life on the Mekong River. Visit a floating market, a beautiful island and dine at a superb Indochine restaurant, an ideal way to spend the day on the Delta.
Day 12: Depart Ho Chi Minh City
You will be driven to the airport for your flight out of Vietnam. B
Departures: Daily
