Vietnam solo tours

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Intrepid travellers come from different walks of life and age brackets, but they're connected by a love of travel, a curiosity about the world and a respect for the people and places they visit. They’re a friendly, open-minded bunch, and many choose to travel alone (so no third-wheeling, we promise). Because of our small group sizes, it's easy to get to know everyone and make deeper connections.

The beauty of travelling with Intrepid is that we encourage travellers to explore at their own pace. When you get to a destination, your leader will offer options on what you can do, and some of the group will do one activity while others may opt for something completely different.

The amount of free time depends on the trip style you've chosen. You're welcome to ask your leader for a few tips, then head out alone or hang out with the group and see where the day takes you.

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

You will be able to use your mobile phone in most urban areas of Vietnam, although remote and mountainous areas may not have network coverage. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your mobile carrier before you leave home if you wish to use your mobile while in Vietnam.

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Despite having a high population of people with disabilities, accessible infrastructure and facilities are still limited in Vietnam. Chaotic traffic and pavements blocked by parked motorbikes and street stalls, uneven footpaths and high curbs add to the challenges of getting around for travellers with mobility or vision disabilities. Most entrances to hotels, shops, restaurants and tourist sites will have steps and many doorways will not be able to accommodate wheelchairs wider than 60cm. Some sights and destinations will not be fully accessible (ie. Ha Long Bay boats, Cu Chi Tunnels) but other places such as Hoi An are flat and much more wheelchair-friendly. There are likely to be situations where travellers with disabilities may need to rely on local people to help. Taxis are readily available and an affordable way to get around for travellers who are not confident in exploring independently on foot.

Every destination is different – so do your research before you set off – but here’s some general safety advice for solo travellers:

• Ensure your loved ones are aware of your plans.
• Get a cab from the airport/station taxi rank – touts tend to hang out in the arrivals area and, while they promise cheaper rates, they can be dodgy. For peace of mind, you can usually book a private transfer with your hotel. If you're travelling with us, we can also book transfers.
• Have a rough idea of where you’re going before heading out. Depending on where you are, it may be best to duck into a shop or café instead of walking with your phone.
• Dress like the locals and leave blingy jewellery and designer clothes at home.
• Keep track of travel times so you’re not caught out after dark.
• Solo travel is all about confidence and being aware of your surroundings. If you’re relaxed on the street, you’re more likely to blend in. The popular tourist areas are usually the most well-lit and secure, but they’re often a bigger target for pickpockets and scammers. And remember: if it feels wrong, it probably is.