Vietnam Express Southbound

Duration

10 days

Tour Code

TVSF

Physical Rating

2

Culture Shock Rating

3 stars

Group Size

Maximum of 12 travellers per group

Budget

Allow USD $180 for meals not included.

Day 1 Hanoi

With its French-colonial buildings, graceful boulevards and aromatic cafe au lait, Hanoi has an elegant timelessness. Get lost in the hubbub of Hanoi's streets, visit the Temple of Literature or enjoy Vietnam's fusion of traditional European and modern Asian cuisine.

Days 2-3 Halong Bay

Visit the Intrepid Foundation-supported KOTO restaurant for breakfast before setting sail on an overnight Halong Bay cruise. Kick back and enjoy the dramatic scenery, take a dip in the balmy waters and sleep under a star-studded sky. Then its time to climb aboard the famed Reunification Express for an overnight train ride.

Days 4-5 Hue

Appointed as the imperial capital due to its beauty and isolation, Hue will enchant. Let the royal past come to life among the ruins of the Imperial Citadel, enjoy a cyclo tour and unwind on a dragon boat cruise down the Perfume River.

Days 6-7 Hoi An

Travel along the spectacular Hai Van Pass to Hoi An, once a thriving port town. Today, trade remains central to everyday life with shops offering everything from tailored clothes to custom-made shoes and silk lanterns. Perhaps sign up for an optional cooking class or simply enjoy the many fine restaurants along Hoi An's riverside.

Days 8-10 Ho Chi Minh City

After a short flight, take to the streets of vibrant Ho Chi Minh City on a cyclo tour. Be moved by the displays at the War Remnants Museum. Head out to the Mekong Delta for a fascinating day tour and sample local specialities like the quirky elephant ear fish. Board sampans and paddle through the delta's mangrove tributaries via the stunning Dragon, Unicorn, Tortoise and Phoenix islets. Head back to Ho Chi Minh City where the adventure comes to an end.