Hanoi backstreets, Da Bac hiking, Hoi An countryside and Cat Ba kayaking
Trace Vietnam’s eastern coastline on this 15-day Lonely Planet Experience, tackling the country from south to north and discovering the many wonders that lie along the way. From the modern chaos of Ho Chi Minh City all the way up to old-world Hanoi, you'll experience tumultuous history, colonial charm, vibrant colours, delicious food and inspiring scenery on your adventure. Take a boat cruise along the Mekong Delta, tour the backstreets of Hoi An with a local, enjoy a rural homestay in Da Bac and explore the beautiful karsts of Lan Ha Bay.
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After spending time admiring Hoi An’s World Heritage-listed ancient town, hop on a bike and pedal beside rice fields and through small villages on a guided bicycle tour of the surrounding countryside.
Spend two days on Cat Ba Island relaxing on tiny beaches, hiking through verdant jungle and kayaking around karst-studded Lan Ha Bay. It’s just like Halong, but with fewer tourists!
Cruise around the backwater canals of the Mekong Delta – the ‘rice bowl’ of Vietnam – and discover rural life and local interactions along the shores with your small group.
Explore the 36 streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, as well as the Dong Xuan Market and Hoan Kiem Lake, taking in the unique mixture of French Colonial and Buddhist architecture.
This trip is big on connecting with the real Vietnam, and with two included homestays – one in Da Bac and one on the Mekong Delta – you can immerse yourself in everyday life.
You may also want to check out our Cambodia and Vietnam Experience (TKRNC) if you have longer time to explore in the region. https://www.intrepidtravel.com/vietnam/cambodia-vietnam-experience-126711 You may also want to check out our Cambodia and Vietnam Experience (TKRNC) if you have longer time to explore in the region. https://www.intrepidtravel.com/vietnam/cambodia-vietnam-experience-126711
Once on this trip, including on overnight trains. Accommodation and amenities are shared and basic, but the experience of rubbing shoulders with the locals makes it all worthwhile. For more about what this experience is like, see our blog post here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/what-to-expect-on-an-overnight.
You'll be spending two nights with local families on this trip. While during these homestays the accommodation is shared and basic, this is a great opportunity to connect with the local people (and enjoy delicious home-cooked meals!). Read more about what to expect here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/community-based-tourism-vietnam
Your visit to Hoi An includes a bicycle tour of the surrounding countryside. Although the ride isn’t strenuous, you will need a basic level of fitness to take part.
There is an included hike of up to six kilometres (almost four miles) in the countryside in Da Bac. While this hike is within the capabilities of most travellers, please let your booking agent know if you have any concerns. Good walking shoes are recommended.
This trip gives you plenty of free time in each location, perfect for the traveller who appreciates a bit of independence.
Trip departures are unavailable.
There are currently no scheduled departures on our Vietnam Discovery trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.
PASSPORT DETAILS
Please provide your full name exactly as per your passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport) for train tickets. Ticketing fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket.
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
A single supplement to have your own room is available on this trip, subject to availability. Please contact an Intrepid booking agent if you would like to organise this. Please note the single supplement excludes Days 3 and 8 (overnight trains), Day 2 (guesthouse) and Day 10 (homestay) where you will be in shared accommodation. Day use rooms are also excluded.
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
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