TOUR ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival Vientiane (G)
Time permitting; Your half day city tour enables us to see the major temples of Vientiane including the oldest, Wat Sisaket, a temple of thousands of miniature Buddha statues, and the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. We also visit Lao national icon, That Luang Stupa, and we stop to take some pictures of the imposing Patuxay Monument, which is Vientiane’s own Arc de Triumph. Overnight in a hotel in Vientiane.
Day 2: Vientiane - Vang Vieng (B/L) (G)
The second day of your Indochina tour, we will do half day city tour to see the major temples of Vientiane including the oldest, Wat Sisaket, a temple of thousands of miniature Buddha statues, and the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. We also visit Lao national icon, That Luang Stupa, and we stop to take some pictures of the imposing Patuxay Monument, which is Vientiane’s own Arc de Triumph. After lunch, We leave the capital for our journey northbound; we will see some breathtaking scenery enroute as we pass through spectacular countryside towards the mountainous region. Along the way we visit the busy and colourful market of Thalat where various hill tribes come to trade goods and buy provisions. A next stop of our Indochina trip is Vang Xang, famous for its archeological site dating back to the 11th century. We reach our final destination Vang Vieng, which is nestled on a bend of the Nam Song River. Overnight in a hotel in Vang Vieng.
Day 3: Vang Vieng - Luang Prabang (B/L) (G)
Day 4: Luang Prabang - Khouangsi Waterfall and Pak Ou Caves (B/L) (G)
First we visit the morning Phousi Market, where you will see such diverse offerings as dried buffalo skin, local tea and saltpeter among the chickens, vegetables and hill-tribe weavings. Laos is also known for its traditional crafts, and today you will visit local villages of Lao ethnic minority groups at Ban Ouay, a Hmong village, Ban Ou a Laoloum village and Ban Thapene, a Khmu villages. This then takes us to the beautiful Khuang Si Waterfall where you can cool off with a refreshing swim in the pools or walk along the forest trails. We then return to Luang Prabang.
This afternoon, we embark on a cruise upstream on the Mekong River, which also gives us a breathtaking view of the tranquil countryside, before reaching the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, two linked caves crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by pilgrims. Along the way, we stop at the village of Ban Xanghai, where they make the local rice wine. On return, we disembark the boat to visit traditional villages, and continue taking a short drive to Ban Phanom, a village famous for its hand weaving. Overnight in a hotel in Luang Prabang.
Day 5: Luang Prabang - Flight to Hanoi (B) (G)
Hanoi You can spend the sixth day of your Indochina travel package Luang Prabang as you please. You could explore the city a bit more and perhaps visit the Wat Xieng Thong temple. You’ll notice the striking roofs of the temples in Luang Prabang with long points reaching all the way down to the ground. You can also visit the largest and most sacred gold statue in Laos, the Phra Bang.
If you’re an early bird and don’t mind getting up at the crack of dawn you’ll be able to observe one of the daily rituals; the procession of the monks at dawn. Devout Laotians kneel with their heads bowed to offer rice and fruit to the passing monks.
Depend on your departure flight, our guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel and transfer to the airport for the flight to Hanoi, a city where the exotic chic of old Asia blends with the dynamic face of new Asia. Where the medieval and modern co-exist. A city with a blend of Parisian grace and Asian pace, an architectural museum piece evolving in harmony with its history, rather than bulldozing through like many of the region’s capitals. Hanoi is where imagination becomes reality and a beautiful stop or start of any Vietnam Tour.
Upon your arrival, Local tour guide and driver will meet you at the airport, welcome your Vietnam holiday with smiles. Transfer to the hotel in Hanoi. Free at leisure and overnight in a hotel in Hanoi.
Day 6: Hanoi City Tour (B/L) (G)
In the late afternoon, options to visit the Museum of Ethnology which has an extensive display dedicated to Vietnam’s 54 Ethnic minority peoples (or Hanoi Hilton prison, Amy Museum, History Museum, Fine Art Museum). Finish we will transfer to the town for taking a cyclo (pedicab) trip around Hoan Kiem Lake and Hanoi's fascinating Old Quarter for some great fun, see streets' side traditional food, coffee, shops... Try one “hanoi bia – draught beer" This is your chance to be part of typical Hanoian style and its traditional Vietnamese culture. Last but not least our relaxing but informative day by attending a Water Puppet Show, a favorite experience for all visitors to Vietnam and spotlight of any Vietnam tour. Back to your hotel, free at leisure and overnight in a hotel in Hanoi.
Day 7: Hanoi - Hoa Lu - Tam Coc - Hanoi - Train to Sapa (B/L) (G)
Tam CocHoa Lu, the first capital of Vietnam, is also an interesting historical site. Most of which has been destroyed. The remains are the temples dedicated to King Dinh and King Le, the two heroes who lived in 10th century and chose Hoa Lu to build the citadel of the capital city. In 1998, archaeologists unearthed a new section of the old citadel, which have been preserved together with some artifacts and shown in a display room built around them.
After that, we drive through the picturesque villages, rice fields to Tam Coc for lunch in ca nice local restaurant before the boat trip to explore Tam Coc that known as Halong Bay on land boasting a breathtaking scenery. While Halong Bay features huge rock formations jutting out o the sea, Tam Coc has them jutting out of its rice paddies. Tam Coc means three caves; that is Hang Ca (the first), Hang Giua (the second) and Hang Cuoi (the smallest). The boat trip to all three caves takes about two hours. If you are lucky, sometimes you can see mischievous monkeys or mountain goats. This is a very peaceful and scenic trip.
If you wish to see something more, we will visit Thai Vy temple or Bich Dong pagoda before driving back to Hanoi. Dinner at one of the best Vietnamese restaurants in Hanoi before taking the night train to Lao Cai.
Day 8: Lao Cai - Sapa - Ban Khoang - Ta Phin village - Sapa (B/L) (G)
After breakfast you'll be driven to Khoang village where you'll begin trekking to Taphin, home to the striking Black H’mong people. The Black H'mong wear mainly black clothing, as their name suggests. The dye that they use tends to run and, as a result, their hands are also stained a little black. Along the way you'll trek through numerous Hmong and Red Dao villages, through some of the most stunning scenery Vietnam has to offer.
(On Saturday evening from about 7pm, the Love Market takes place in Sapa. Young eligible men and women from the Dzao region meet here, dressed in finery, in the hope of snagging a partner. We can definitely recommend taking a look at this spectacle during your Sapa trip).. Overnight in a hotel in Sapa.
Day 9: Sapa Trekking Tour - Lao Chai & Ta Van village (B/L) (G)
After breakfast, our private Sapa tour guide and driver will pick you up at the hotel and drive to Muong Hoa valley. The trekking point is at Lao Chai village of the Black H'Mong minority where we trek down the beautiful valley and walk through one of the world's most beautiful terraced rice fields. It is also possible to visit one of the local families to learn about their daily life, culture, customs and habits... Say goodbye to Lao Chai village we continue to Ta Van village of the Day minority, you will see the totally different way of living and a lot more photos to be taken of the amazing scenery and extremely friendly people. Arrival in Ta Van, meet your car and drive back to Sapa. Free at leisure and overnight in a hotel in Sapa.
Day 10: Sapa – Hill Tribe Market - Lao Cai - Train to Hanoi (B/L) (G)
Many different ethnic groups such as Flower H'mong, Phu La, Black Dao, Tay and Nung minorities gather to buy and sell local products that cannot be found elsewhere. The market was very crowded, local products for sale or barter are carried on horseback. Besides the usual items like pigs, cows, chickens, and ducks, Bac Ha Market sold dogs. As dogs were available as cuts of meat, they were also available live, right next to the live pigs, chickens, and other livestock. There was a brisk trade at the market for everything from hand-embroidered skirts to all manner of 4-legged animals. The “fresh” meat section is not for the faint of heart and might steer more than a few visitors in the direction of strict vegetarianism.
After lunch, we visit the palace of the H'Mong King before driving to Trung Do village of the Tay minority to learn about their daily life then the beautiful boat trip Bac Ha Marketdownstream of the Chai River to Bao Nhai where your car is waiting to drive you to Lao Cai border gate for a short break to walk to Thuong Temple or take some memorial photos. Continue to the train station for the overnight train to Hanoi. End of your unforgettable Sapa tour.
Note: Bac Ha market is only on Sunday, if it is not Sunday today, we will arrange alternative to another ethnic market which is similar to Bac Ha Market.
Schedules:
Can Cau Market - Saturdays
Cao Son Market - Wednesdays
Lung Khau Nhin Market - Thursdays
Coc Ly Market - Tuesdays
Day 11: Hanoi - Halong Cruise (B/L/D) (G)
Located in the Gulf of Tonkin, Halong Bay is recognized by UNESCO as the Natural World Heritage that contains some 1,600 islands and islets, forming a spectacular seascape of limestone pillars. Because of their precipitous nature, most of the islands are uninhabited and unaffected by a human presence. The bay’s outstanding scenic beauty is complemented by its great biological interest. It is a incredible place to explore and discover its many islands, coves and hidden grottoes. Halong bay is the must – do Vietnam tour for any visitors to Vietnam.
After breakfast, Local guide and driver pick you up from the hotel and have 3,5 hour scenic drive to Halong.
Upon arrival, welcome on board and set sail through Bai Tu Long bay while seafood lunch is served. Rest your eyes on the azure waters of this magical bay, where thousands of sculpted limestone islands rise from the waves like dragons’ teeth, passing picturesque area around Mat Quy islet, Am islet. Mid-afternoon, get to Cua Van fishing village and enjoy a pleasant bamboo boat row to through the village with a museum and a school among floating homes. Visit Tien Ong cave then back on board to enjoy sunset cocktails and canapé.
Dinner is served on board
Note: This is just general itinerary, it can be changed because each Halong cruise has their own cruise itinerary.
Day 12: Halong Bay - Hanoi - Train to Dong Hoi (B) (G)
Start the day early to enjoy a Tai Chi class on top deck with an opportunity to admit the magnificent scenery of sunrise over the sea. After that, guests can choose to go to Soisim beach for swimming or join our chef for cooking demonstration to learn more about Vietnamese cuisine art. On the way back, take deep cruise into Bai Tu Long bay, passing Peal Farm, Phao Dai islet, Tam Cung cave, Hon Xep islet , Dau Moi temple, opportunity to cruise through famous L’Indochine movie site (subject to tide condition). Around noon, back to the Tourist Wharf and private bus back to Hanoi to catch teh evening train to Hue (Train SE1 19:00 - 04:31). Overnight on the train.
Day 13: Dong Hoi Arrival - Phong Nha Cave (B) (G)
Day 14: Dong Hoi - DMZ - Hue (B/L) (G)
After breakfast, we continue our Vietnam travel to Hue, stop on the way to visit Ben Hai river at the middle of the DMZ ( Demilitarized Zone ), the river that was the only true physical demarcation between North and South Vietnam. Continue on to Vinh Moc tunnels, the refuge of over 400 people during the bombing operation “ Rolling Thunder “during the Vietnam war. If you wish to see more war sites. We will drive to Quang Tri Citadel, Truong Son National Cemetery to learn more about the war before we reach Hue. Check in upon arrival, free at leisure and overnight in Hue.
Day 15: Hue City Tour (B/L) (G)
Hue City Tour:
After breakfast, we drive to visit Emperor Minh Mang; Emperor Khai Dinh or Emperor Tu Duc ’s Mausoleums & picturesque Vong Canh Hill. Stop on the way to see how conical hats and incense sticks are made. Lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, visit Imperial capital during Nguyen Dynasty, the seven – story Thien Mu Pagoda on the riverbank. Return by boat on the gentle Perfume River. Overnight in a hotel in Hue.
Day 16: Hue - Hoi An (B/L) (G)
Day 17: Hoi An - My Son - Hoi An (B) (G)
Our guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel at about 08:00 am and drive about 50km from Hoi An to My Son sanctuary. It comprises many Champa temples, in a valley roughly two kilometers wide, surrounded by two mountain ranges. It was the site of religious ceremony of kings of the Champa dynasty, and was also a burial place of Champa royals and national heroes. The My Son temple complex is one of the foremost temple complexes of Hinduism in South East Asia and is the foremost heritage site of this nature in Vietnam. Though the complex has been destroyed over time, we still see many majestic ancient ruins of temples in the area. We also spend time to visit a silk handicraft village along the Thu Bon River on the way back to Hoi An. Free at leisure. Overnight in a hotel in Hoi An.
Day 18: Hoi An Free Day (B) (G)
Hoi An, highlight of any tour to Vietnam, today is free at leisure on the beach or having clothes made by one of the expert, inexpensive tailors Hoi An is famous for. If you like to cook, you can spend a fabulous day exploring the local produce market with an expert chef who will teach you the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine. Overnight in a hotel in Hoi An.
Day 19: Hoi An - Danang - Drive to Quy Nhon (B) (G)
After breakfast, we drive to Quy Nhon, the city is well known for its beautiful surroundings, Cham temples, and with sandy beaches, various seafood resources. The city is an ideal place for those who want to break up a journey between Nha Trang and Hoi An. On the way, we can stop for a visit to My Lai which is known as My Lai Massacre in the American War. Upon arrival, check in and free at leisure. Overnight in Quy Nhon.
Day 20: Quy Nhon - Nha Trang (B) (G)
Morning is free at leisure to relax, swim or explore Quy Nhon on your own. Around noon, we drive to Nha trang, the heavyweight champion of Vietnam, Nha Trang has been knocking out visitors for years. True, the town is brazen and brash, but the beach is bold and beautiful and a gateway to a cluster of quieter islands. Nha Trang is really a nice stop during your Vietnam holiday.
Day 21: Nha Trang Free Day (B)
Day 22: Nha Trang - Flight to Saigon (B) (G)
This morning, we transfer you to the airport for the short flight to Saigon, the most exciting city of Vietnam, a mecca of commerce, also a city with a chequered history and a rich culture, its pagodas, museums, public buildings, parks and boulevards make it one of the most delightful Vietnam Tours and cities to visit in Vietnam. In the afternoon, visit the War Remnants or History Museum and the former Presidential Palace. From there, the Notre Dame Cathedral, Old Saigon Post Office, Dong Khoi Street (formerly Rue Catinat), Continental Hotel, Opera House and City Hall are all within walking distance and absolutely nice choices for a free stroll. Overnight in a hotel in Saigon.
Day 23: Saigon - Tay Ninh - Cu Chi Tunnels - Saigon (B/L) (G)
After breakfast, enjoy a morning drive through typical southern Vietnamese countryside to Tay Ninh Province in the west of Vietnam. At Tay Ninh visit the incredible Cao Dai Great Temple, with architecture that could have come straight from a Walt Disney fantasy and where all the major faiths of the world blend together in a unique religious cocktail. In the afternoon, visit the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, a must see destination for any Vietnam tour, watch a short introductory video showing how they were constructed, then spend the next hour exploring the maze of tunnels. Also on display are various mantraps, the remains of an American tank and numerous bomb craters made by 500 pound bombs dropped by B52 bombers. For those interested there's even the opportunity to fire off rounds from an AK47 or MK16 at the nearby rifle range. Back in HCMC in the afternoon. Free at leisure and overnight in a hotel in Saigon
Day 24: Saigon - Mekong Delta (Can Tho) (B/L) (G)
Today, we start our Vietnam travel with the interesting visit to Cai be floating market.
6am: Pick up at your hotel in HCMC. Depart for Cai Be by private ca, stop to take photos in Tan An town overlooking the picturesque flat rice fields. On arrival in Cai Be, set off by motor boat to visit the Cai Be floating market and watch the locals trading fruit and many other commodities on board their vessels. Then wander into the small villages to visit the orchard and fruit plantation. Keep cruising to Vinh Long through a series of small canals to experience the charms of the Upper Mekong Delta. Visit a small family business to see how coconut candy and crispy rice popcorn are made. Arrive in Binh Hoa Phuoc village, the green pearl of Vinh Long town, where you can immerse yourself in nature. Enjoy a lunch of fresh river food served in the heart of the garden accompanied by traditional southern Vietnamese folk music. Take a delightful walk through the bonsai garden. Meet the car/van in Vinh Long and continue to Can Tho, the heart of Mekong delta in Vietnam. Check in and free at leisure. Overnight in a hotel in Can Tho.
Day 25: Can Tho - Cai Rang floating market - Chau Doc (B/L) (G)
Day 26: Chau Doc - Phnom Penh (B) (G)
After breakfast, you will take the speed boat to Phnom Penh where you arrive in early afternoon. Welcomed by Local guide and driver. Transfer to your hotel and free at leisure. Overnight in a hotel in Phnom Penh
Day 27: Phnom Penh Tour (B/L) (G)
On the twenty-seventh day of your Indochina travel package, you'll visit Phnom Penh's major attractions with your guide. You'll visit the Silver Pagoda and the National Palace but you'll also see the haunting remnants of the Pol Pot regime at the Tuol Sleng Museum and the Killing Fields. In 1975 the Red Khmer invaded the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh. Pol Pot became prime minister of Cambodia and made a very cruel and bloody attempt to turn Cambodia into a communist agricultural state. Cities were destroyed and everyone was forced to become a farmer. Currency, education, religion and private property were abolished.
The Tuol Sleng Museum is an incredibly moving museum. It confronts visitors quite directly with Cambodia's brutal past by means of a series of photographs. An old primary school was used as a prison for torturing political enemies during the rule of the Red Khmer.
The Silver Pagoda, or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is famous for its solid silver floor, made up of 5000 silver tiles weighing over 1kg each. You'll be staying another night in Phnom Penh.
Day 28: Phnom Penh - Flight to Siem Reap (B) (G)
This early morning, our private guide and driver see you off at the airport for your flight to Siem Reap. Pick up and transfer to your hotel. Check in if the room is available. In the afternoon, visit grand circuit: Preah Khan built in 1191 according to the tradition on a spot where the king fought a crucial battle against the Cham, Neak Paon was supposed to be a symbol of the Universe, Mebon oriental: used to be in the middle of the waters of the large Oriental Baray that is presently filled with rice-fields and Pre Rup- this temple was built in the 10th century by Rajendravarman. Its proportions are perfect, a truly beautiful piece of work and admire sunset tours, dinner at local restaurant and overnight in a hotel in Siem Reap.
Day 29: Angkor Tour (B/L) (G)
Day 30: Siem Reap Free Day (B) (G)
Today you can spend another day exploring Angkor on your own. Angkor is the name of the ancient capital of the Khmer empire which was founded in the 8th century AD. Siem Reap literally means ‘conquest by Siam’ and the temples were once surrounded by a thriving city filled with wooden houses. Sadly they’re long gone but the temples themselves are magnificent enough. For centuries the city was overgrown by jungle until the ruins were discovered by French explorers in 1900. Several temples have been restored but others are still overgrown. At the Ta Prohm temple for example you can see how the jungle still has a hold on the buildings. Giant trees tower over them and the roots have wrapped themselves around the temple walls. It’s a strange but impressive sight. Overnight in a hotel in Siem Reap.
Day 31: Siem Reap Departure (B) (G)
Last day of your Indochina vacation, you are free at leisure. Depend on your departure flight, our guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel and transfer to the airport where we say goodbye. We hope that you have enjoyed your time with us. We wish you all the best and look forward to your next Indochina tours.
END OF SERVICE
INCLUSION:
- Transportation
- English Speaking guide
- Entrance Fee and Permit
- Accommodation
- Meal as per program: B- Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner
- Flight ticket as per program
EXCLUSION:
- Personal expense
- Visa for each country
- Other services not clearly mentioned in program
INDOCHINA CULTURE TRAVEL
Add: 08 Hoang Dieu Street, Sapa Town, Lao Cai Province, Vietnam
Mobile: +84 943 569 990, Tel: +84 203 872 996, Fax: +84 203 872 988
YM: tungtomtravel Skype: tungtomtravel
Email: tung@trailsofmountain.com Website: www.tomtravel.asia
SPECIALIZE YOUR HOLIDAY TO INDOCHINA!
