Vietnam Green Journey 12 Days Eco Tour Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An & Mekong Delta Cultural Experience

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival – Welcome Dinner (Dinner)

Upon arrival at Noi Bai Airport, after clearing all customs procedures, please proceed to exit gate and look for your driver who will be waiting at the lobby, holding the Luxury Travel Vietnam signboard with your name on it, if you cannot locate your driver, please go to the Airport information counter situated in the middle of Domestic and International arrival lobby (inside the terminal) and call us for assistance. Your driver will come to meet you up and transfer you to hotel for check in and free at leisure until welcome dinner.

Overnight in Hanoi

Day 2: Explore The Heritage Road In The South Of Thang Long (B/L)

Begin your day at the Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum, which showcases the country's rich culture and history through its various exhibitions and international collections. The museum facilitates engagement between local art enthusiasts and worldwide artistic trends. Next, visit a lacquerware workshop in Ha Thai village, where you'll meet a skilled artist and learn the centuries-old technique of creating beautiful lacquer pieces. Participate in an interactive session, where you’ll create your own folk artwork, gaining hands-on experience in material selection, drawing, and polishing. Then, head to Phuc Am Village, known for its votive offerings. The vibrant atmosphere and drying offerings along the roads set the scene as you observe the meticulous crafting process carried out by local artisans. These votive items are eventually burned during Tet, a tradition honoring ancestors and seeking blessings, emphasizing their ephemeral nature rather than decorative use.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 3: A Journey Into Serenity In Tam Coc & An Incredible Bird Watching At Thung Nham (B, L)

After transferring to Ninh Binh, embark on a scenic journey by small rowing boat to experience the stunning landscapes of Tam Coc. This area is renowned for its endless rice paddies framed by towering limestone karst mountains, offering breathtaking views at every turn. As you glide along the tranquil waters, your boat will navigate through lush fields and three natural caves, providing ample opportunities to appreciate the mesmerizing scenery and observe the aquatic plants beneath the surface.

In the afternoon, enjoy a biking excursion to Thung Nham, also known as Bird Valley. This ecotourism destination showcases a rich biodiversity where the beauty of nature harmonizes with local creativity. The highlight of your visit will be the bird garden, which hosts about 40 species of birds, including those listed in the Vietnam Red Book. Particularly vibrant during the gathering of birds in the trees at sunset, the best time to witness this spectacular display is from May to July, offering a colorful and lively experience in this natural paradise.

Overnight in Ninh Binh.

Day 4: A Leisurely Day Of Exlporation From The Countryside To Heritage Halong Bay (B/L/D)

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast before transferring to the pier. Upon arrival, relax in the cruise lounge before boarding. As the cruise sets sail, a sumptuous Vietnamese lunch is served on the main deck, allowing you to savor local flavors while taking in the beauty of Ha Long Bay. The highlight of the trip is a visit to a cave rich in historical and archaeological significance, showcasing impressive stalactites and stalagmites and a diverse ecosystem. Later, enjoy free time to kayak and explore the breathtaking surroundings. Back on the cruise, relish afternoon tea with music on the Sundeck and participate in a cooking demonstration to learn traditional Vietnamese culinary skills. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner, immersing yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Ha Long Bay at night.

Overnight on-board.

Day 5: A Wonderful Sleeper Train Experience From Hanoi Capital To Hue Imperial City (Brunch/D)

Start your day in Halong Bay with an energizing Vovinam session on the sundeck, enjoying the fresh air and stunning views. After this martial arts experience, indulge in a light breakfast on the cruise, then set off on a bamboo boat to explore the Dark and Bright Cave. Glide through serene waters surrounded by impressive limestone cliffs, taking in the area's natural beauty. Upon returning to the ship, enjoy a delicious brunch while the cruise gently heads back to the harbor, allowing you to savor the final views of the bay. Once in Hanoi, the vibrant "capital of the motorbike kingdom", embarks on a guided tour on a USSR Vintage Minsk motorbike. Discover hidden gems and iconic sites as you navigate the bustling streets. After a day full of exploration and flavors, relax at the Hanoi station before your overnight train journey, ready for the next adventure in Vietnam.

Overnight on train.

Day 6: Explore Hue & A Local Kite Craftman Lifestyle (B)

You will be picked up and taken to the Hue Imperial Citadel, a monumental structure in Vietnam's modern history that showcases royal architecture and rich historical significance. Hue is celebrated as an ideal kite-flying destination, where hundreds of kites can be seen soaring above the Imperial Citadel on clear afternoons, making it a beloved pastime for all generations. You'll also visit Mr. Cu, an experienced kite craftsman with 45 years of expertise. Engaging in conversation with him will provide insights into the history and passion behind this traditional activity. You'll have the opportunity to create your own kite and, if the weather permits, experience the joy of watching it ascend into the blue sky, adding a personal touch to your visit to this historic city.

Overnight in Hue.

Day 7: At Leisure In Hue / Optional Biking To The Rural Village (B)

Today is free time at your leisure. Overnight in Hue.

Optional Tour

Biking heads to Thanh Toan village - one of the most beautiful villages in Hue with clean roads, peaceful landscape and particularly the rural Thanh Toan market to have an insight into local life. It's the time to take part in the most interesting part of the day: the Vietnamese cooking class with some local specialties, especially Chung cake – the traditional food in Vietnam.

Then, continue your trip to Thanh Toan tile roofed bridge which is known as a rare and the most aesthetically valuable bridge among those of Vietnam. Head to Thanh Toan Museum to learn more about the values and the lives of predecessors as well as artifacts reflecting the daily life of rural Thanh Toan village then experience conical hat making. Last stop at Phu Ton That Thuyet that was built around the year of Tu Duc in 19th century (1866) to see a special kind of architecture and hear the story about a great man in Vietnam history.

Day 8: Journey Through Scenic Haivan Pass – Hoian’s Cultural Gems And Culinary Adventure In Noodle Making (B/L)

Begin your journey with a transfer to Hoi An through the breathtaking Hai Van Pass, renowned for its stunning views of mountains and the sea. Upon arrival, embark on a guided walking tour of Hoi An Ancient Town, exploring historical sites such as old merchant houses reflecting Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese architecture, the iconic 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, and the intricately carved Assembly Hall of the Chaozhou Chinese Congregation. Visit the vibrant market, filled with local specialties, including silk that can be crafted into garments within a day. Next, participate in an engaging cooking class focused on mastering various types of Vietnamese noodles. Enjoy a hands-on experience under the guidance of students, where you’ll learn about noodle preparation, from Pho to local dishes. Conclude the experience with a delightful lunch featuring the famous Mi Quang noodles, immersing yourself in the rich culinary culture of Hoi An.

Overnight in Hoian.

Day 9: At Leisure In Hoi An / Optional Authentic Experiences (B)

Today is free time at your leisure. Overnight in Hoian.

Optional Tour

Begin your day cycling through the picturesque Cam Thanh countryside, where you’ll encounter lush green water coconut forests and local farms. Arriving at Madame Vân organic farm, enjoy a stroll through the vegetable garden while learning about the farmers' transition to organic cultivation methods. You’ll be treated to a refreshing Lemon Tea made with Butterfly Pea Flower from the garden. Participate in hands-on experience making hand soaps from used cooking oil, highlighting sustainable practices. Before returning to your hotel in an electric car, indulge in a short cooking class to prepare “Banh Xeo,” a traditional Vietnamese dish, followed by a delightful Vietnamese family-style lunch. This immersive experience connects you to the local culture and promotes sustainability, offering a memorable insight into rural life in Vietnam.

Day 10: Dicover The Bustling Lifestyle Of Ho Chi Minh City (B)

Relax until departing time for Danang airport and catch your flight to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. Experience unparalleled luxury at a top-tier hotel, where exceptional hospitality awaits. Your adventure begins at the Fito Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine. Here, you will explore a unique collection of exhibits dedicated to the rich history and practices of herbal medicine in Vietnam. The museum provides an insightful glimpse into the ancient healing techniques, showcasing well-preserved artifacts and engaging displays that celebrate this vital part of Vietnamese culture. Next, immerse yourself in the local lifestyle as you visit Binh Tay Market, the largest wholesale market in Chinatown. As you wander through its vibrant stalls, you'll encounter a diverse array of produce, spices, and traditional goods that reflect the everyday lives of the locals. The market buzzes with energy, offering a perfect opportunity to engage with vendors, sample local snacks, and experience the authentic rhythm of the city. After a fulfilling day of exploration, settle in for a restful overnight stay in Ho Chi Minh City, ready to continue your journey the next day.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.

Day 11: Excursion Through The Heart Of Mekong Delta: Culture & Artisanry (B/L/D)

After 2 hours driving from HCM city, you will arrive Ben Tre province. Take the boat to visit a local factory to see many kilns to make activated charcoal from coconut hard-shell. Crossing Mekong River, called “Cửa Đại & Cửa Tiểu”, 30km far from the Eastern Sea, we arrive Tam Hiep Island. Walking on small village paths through huge orchards of longan to come to the local family to enjoy some kinds of fruits & honey-tea. Next, the rowing boat will take you deeper into the countryside on smaller canals to enjoy the peaceful time. Biking to special farm where they are planting the creepers (called LÁ SÂM). We picked up some leaves for making & tasting this special herbal jelly.

Continue to bike back to the boat, then go to Ut Trinh homestay to have the best lunch with some special dishes. After lunch, we can relax on the hammocks before coming back to our boat to the ferry station and end the trip.

Overnight in HCMC

Day 12: Farewell & Departure From Ho Chi Minh City (B)

After breakfast at hotel, you are free for shopping until transferring to airport for your onward flight to go home.

Services Included

• Eleven nights of hotel, train and cruise accommodation.
• Premium 4-star or luxury 5-star hotels according to the selected package.
• Double or twin hotel-room sharing, with one single room allowed for the fifth traveller.
• One premium overnight soft-sleeper train journey from Hanoi to Hue.
• Private train cabins whenever the confirmed group configuration allows.
• One overnight Ha Long–Lan Ha Bay cruise in a balcony cabin or suite.
• One scheduled domestic economy-class flight from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City.
• Standard checked baggage on the included domestic flight.
• Daily breakfast at hotels and aboard the cruise.
• Lunches, brunches and dinners stated in the confirmed itinerary.
• Private airport, railway-station, hotel and cruise-marina transfers.
• Private air-conditioned transportation during scheduled touring.
• Professional drivers, fuel, tolls, parking fees and driver expenses.
• Experienced English-speaking guides during scheduled sightseeing.
• Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum entrance ticket.
• Ha Thai lacquerware workshop, facilitator and activity materials.
• Phuc Am craft-village experience.
• Tam Coc rowing-boat and entrance tickets.
• Thung Nham Bird Valley entrance ticket.
• Bicycle or electric-buggy arrangements during scheduled activities.
• Scheduled cruise activities, kayaking and bamboo-boat services.
• Hue Imperial Citadel entrance ticket.
• Traditional kite-making workshop.
• Thanh Toan Village cultural, craft and cooking experience.
• Hoi An Ancient Town entrance ticket.
• Hoi An social-enterprise noodle-making experience.
• Cam Thanh organic-farming and recycled-soap experience.
• FITO Museum entrance ticket.
• Private Mekong Delta motorboat and sampan services.
• All scheduled sightseeing entrance fees.
• Refillable or bottled drinking water during private touring.
• Local taxes and service charges for included arrangements.
• Twenty-four-hour local assistance during the journey.

Services Not Included

• International flights to Hanoi and from Ho Chi Minh City.
• Vietnam visa or electronic visa fees.
• Travel, medical, cancellation and emergency-evacuation insurance.
• Domestic business-class flight upgrades.
• Excess baggage and special baggage charges.
• Meals not clearly stated in the confirmed itinerary.
• Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks and minibar consumption.
• Optional attractions, performances and activities.
• Single-room supplements beyond the confirmed room arrangement.
• Additional private train-cabin supplements beyond the confirmed allocation.
• Early hotel check-in and late hotel check-out.
• Room, suite, villa and premium-view upgrades.
• Personal carbon-offset contributions unless specifically confirmed.
• Laundry, spa treatments, telephone calls and personal expenses.
• Tips for guides, drivers, artisans, local families, cruise crews and hotel staff.
• Peak-season, weekend-cruise and public-holiday supplements.
• Christmas, New Year and Vietnamese Lunar New Year supplements.
• Compulsory hotel, resort or cruise gala dinners.
• Additional costs caused by weather, airline, railway or transport disruption.
• Any service not clearly listed under “Services Included”.