12-Day Vietnam Explorer Tour
Halong Bay • Ninh Binh • Sapa • Hoi An • Ho Chi Minh City • Mekong Delta
An Unforgettable Journey Through Vietnam’s Natural Wonders, Cultural Heritage & Local Life
Travel the length of Vietnam on this carefully crafted 12-day adventure, combining breathtaking landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, vibrant cities, and authentic cultural experiences. Cruise through the spectacular limestone seascapes of Halong Bay, explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, admire the mountain scenery of Sapa, wander the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, and experience the fascinating waterways of the Mekong Delta.
Designed for travelers seeking both comfort and authenticity, this itinerary offers the perfect balance of guided sightseeing and free time to explore at your own pace.
DAY 1 | HANOI TO HALONG CITY
Begin your adventure with a comfortable shared shuttle transfer from Hanoi to the coastal city of Halong.
After checking into your hotel, enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Walk along Bai Chay Beach, browse the lively Halong Night Market, sample fresh seafood, or simply relax while preparing for tomorrow’s cruise.
Overnight: Halong City
DAY 2 | HALONG BAY DAY CRUISE & TRANSFER TO NINH BINH
Board your cruise and set sail across the emerald waters of the UNESCO-listed Halong Bay.
Cruise among thousands of dramatic limestone islands while admiring one of Asia’s most breathtaking natural landscapes.
Highlights may include:
- Exploring impressive limestone caves such as Sung Sot Cave
- Visiting Titop Island for swimming or panoramic viewpoints
- Kayaking through peaceful lagoons
- Relaxing on the sundeck while enjoying spectacular scenery
A freshly prepared seafood lunch will be served onboard as you continue cruising through the bay.
After returning to the harbor, travel by shared shuttle to Ninh Binh. Upon arrival, check in and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Overnight: Ninh Binh
DAY 3 | HOA LU – MUA CAVE – TAM COC – BICH DONG
Your private guide will meet you at your hotel for a full day exploring the highlights of Ninh Binh.
Begin at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Vietnam’s first imperial capital, where you’ll visit centuries-old temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le Dynasties.
Continue to Mua Cave, climbing to one of the region’s most spectacular viewpoints overlooking rice fields and limestone mountains.
Later, enjoy a peaceful sampan boat ride through Tam Coc, gliding beneath natural caves and along the Ngo Dong River.
Complete the day with a leisurely bicycle ride through picturesque countryside to Bich Dong Pagoda, beautifully nestled against towering limestone cliffs.
Overnight: Ninh Binh
DAY 4 | NINH BINH TO SAPA
Enjoy a relaxed morning with free time to discover more of Ninh Binh at your own pace.
In the afternoon, board a shared bus for the scenic journey through Northern Vietnam to the mountain town of Sapa.
Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the cool mountain climate.
Overnight: Sapa
DAY 5 | CAT CAT VILLAGE & OPTIONAL FANSIPAN
Meet your private guide and visit Cat Cat Village, home to the Black H’Mong ethnic minority.
Explore traditional wooden houses, terraced hillsides, handicraft workshops, and the picturesque Tien Sa Waterfall while learning about the customs and daily life of the local community.
Return to Sapa Town for lunch.
In the afternoon, guests may choose to visit Fansipan Mountain, known as the “Roof of Indochina.”
The optional cable car journey (ticket not included) offers spectacular panoramic views of the Hoang Lien Son Mountain Range and access to magnificent temples and scenic viewpoints near the summit.
Overnight: Sapa
DAY 6 | SAPA – DA NANG – HOI AN
Depart Sapa by shared shuttle to Noi Bai International Airport.
Board your domestic flight to Da Nang (airfare not included).
Upon arrival, your private driver will transfer you to the enchanting UNESCO World Heritage town of Hoi An.
Spend the evening exploring the beautifully illuminated Ancient Town or relaxing beside the Thu Bon River.
Overnight: Hoi An
DAY 7 | DISCOVER HOI AN AT YOUR OWN PACE
Today is yours to experience the timeless charm of Hoi An.
Stroll through narrow streets lined with centuries-old merchant houses, browse artisan boutiques, visit riverside cafés, or simply enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
Don’t miss the opportunity to sample famous local specialties including:
- Cao Lau
- Mi Quang
- Banh Mi Phuong
- White Rose Dumplings
- Vietnamese Coffee
Overnight: Hoi An
DAY 8 | ANOTHER LEISURE DAY IN HOI AN
Enjoy another free day to discover hidden corners of this charming Ancient Town.
Visit local art galleries, cycle through nearby rice fields, relax at An Bang Beach, or admire Hoi An’s magical lanterns after sunset.
Overnight: Hoi An
DAY 9 | HOI AN TO HO CHI MINH CITY
Transfer by private vehicle to Da Nang International Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City (flight not included).
After arriving, enjoy free time to discover Vietnam’s largest and most energetic city.
Explore colonial landmarks, vibrant shopping districts, bustling markets, rooftop cafés, or exciting nightlife.
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City
DAY 10 | MEKONG DELTA DISCOVERY
Travel by private vehicle into the fertile Mekong Delta, often called Vietnam’s “Rice Bowl.”
Board a traditional boat and cruise through the winding waterways while discovering peaceful villages and riverside life.
Experience authentic local culture with visits to traditional workshops and family-run businesses.
Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch before boarding a small sampan to glide through narrow canals shaded by water coconut palms.
Taste seasonal tropical fruits, fresh coconut, and locally produced honey tea before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City
DAY 11 | FREE DAY IN HO CHI MINH CITY
Enjoy your final full day exploring Ho Chi Minh City independently.
Visit famous museums, historic landmarks, local cafés, bustling Ben Thanh Market, or simply relax before your departure.
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City
DAY 12 | DEPARTURE
After breakfast, your private driver will transfer you to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your onward journey.
Depart Vietnam with unforgettable memories of magnificent landscapes, fascinating history, delicious cuisine, and warm Vietnamese hospitality.
We hope to welcome you back again soon.
TOUR INCLUSIONS
- Shared shuttle transportation from Hanoi (private vehicle provided for groups of 10 guests or more)
- Private airport transfers in Da Nang, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City
- Accommodation in carefully selected 3-star hotels (twin or double sharing)
- Halong Bay sightseeing cruise
- Fresh seafood lunch onboard the Halong Bay cruise
- Kayaking experience in Halong Bay
- Private guided tours in Ninh Binh, Sapa, and the Mekong Delta
- Traditional boat cruise and sampan ride in the Mekong Delta
- Seasonal tropical fruits, fresh coconut, and local honey tea tasting
- Professional English-speaking guides on sightseeing days
- Entrance fees to all attractions listed in the itinerary
TOUR EXCLUSIONS
- International airfare
- Domestic flights between Hanoi–Da Nang and Da Nang–Ho Chi Minh City
- Fansipan cable car ticket (optional)
- Vietnam visa (if required)
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Meals not specified
- Drinks during meals
- Tips for guides and drivers
WHY CHOOSE VIETNAM WOMEN TRAVEL?
Explore Vietnam with Local Experts
- Carefully planned itinerary covering Vietnam’s top destinations
- Combination of guided experiences and flexible free time
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites and authentic local encounters
- Comfortable transportation and quality accommodations
- Experienced English-speaking local guides
- Suitable for couples, families, solo travelers, and private groups
- Excellent value with personalized service throughout your journey
CONTACT VIETNAM WOMEN TRAVEL
Vietnam Women Travel
Phone: +84 988 402 008
Email: maoluong@gmail.com
Address: 91 Tho Nhuom Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam
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