Vietnam Laos Tour 19 days: Culture Experience

We welcome you at the airport and transfer to hotel for check in. Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital is a unique city with tree-lined boulevards, French colonial architecture, peaceful lakes and oriental temples. The rest of the day is at your leisure and yours to explore on your own.
 
Accommodation : At the hotel in Hanoi
Meals : N.A

We then enjoy a city tour starting with the Ho Chi Minh Complex. This famous site contains the mausoleum of the nation’s founder Ho Chi Minh.
The next destination is the Presidential Palace and the Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts. Close to this complex is the One Pillar Pagoda, whose origins date back to the foundation of city.
We follow this with the Temple of Literature, which is well known as the first university of Vietnam. 
In the afternoon, visit the impressive Ethnologic Museum, dedicated to Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups, several of which we will see on our forthcoming trekking
Lastly take you to watch the water puppet show - a form of entertainment originating in the rural communities and performed in the flooded rice paddies. Puppets depict scenes from rural life, such as planting, fishing, local festivities and parades accompanied by musicians playing traditional instruments. The performances are colorful, intricate and there is a lot of humor as well.
In the evening, we transfer to railway station to board a soft sleep & AC train to Lao Cai/Sapa (22:00 - 05:55)
 
Accommodation : On train (Sharing soft sleeper & AC, carriage cabin of 4 berths on train)
Meals : Breakfast

Arrive in Lao Cai station around 6 Am, picked up for a warm breakfast and a short transfer to Cat Cat village. After a couple of minutes, you follow steps going downhill to Cat Cat village. You will stop by a waterfall and a hydroelectric station for a while before continuing the trek on a dirt trail through rice paddy terraces. You also will enjoy spectacular scenery while walking along a narrow river. You eventually arrive in Y Linh Ho village of Black Hmong minority, where you can take a rest while you are served lunch nearby the river.
After lunch, you head toward Muong Hoa valley. You will pass through Lao Chai village of Black Hmong minority and then Tavan village of Giay minority by following a very popular trekking route. You will return Sapa from Tavan by car.
Approx: 0,5 hour driving / 5 hours walking / 1 hour lunch.
 
Accommodation : At the hotel in Sapa
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

Met up at your hotel in Sapa by local guide and driver for a short road transfer heading northwards of Sapa along national road 4C to O Quy Ho with several stops for magnificent landscapes of Fansipan, Sin Chai valley and especially amazing flower and vegetable farms. Then turn right to follow a narrow road for half an hour getting through the wild region with thick rain forest covering walled-up mountains, passing several waterfalls before arriving to Ban Khoang, a village of the Red Zao ethnic peoples who live their unique way of life and well maintain their traditional values. The village looks prosperous thanks to the combination of wet rice cultivation on the terraced fields with cardamom farming under the shade of trees in thick forest. Spend over an hour walking to explore this remote village for a brief understanding of local life. Leaving Ban Khoang and process along the road for about 10km to Ta Giang Phinh valley inhabited by the Black Hmong who live in some small villages scattering along a peaceful stream.
Enjoy an hour lunch break on the bank of a stream before walking along village path which connects village to village to witness daily activities of local life such as plough and harrow the fields, growing, harvesting or doing some house work. In leisure months men often gather to build new houses or repair parts of old ones while women stay home making their traditional costumes. The walk ends in midafternoon, picked up for the road ride back to Sapa.
Approx: 2-hour driving/ 4 hours walking/ 1-hour lunch
And then transfer you back to Lao Cai station to take your overnight train back to Hanoi. Train time is 21:30-05:25
 
Accommodation : On train (Sharing soft sleeper & AC, carriage cabin of 4 berths on train)
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

Upon arrival at the railway station, pick up and transfer you to a mini hotel for breakfast and fresh up and then transfer you to Ha Long Bay.
We then transfer you to a wooden sailing junk for a cruise through the limestone cliffs and emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, giving us the chance to take in the stunning scenery of this World Heritage Site. While on board we will be served a sumptuous fresh, local seafood lunch followed by a swim and exploring some of the limestone caves in this area. When the sun comes down we drop anchor for the night nearby a remote island. Dinner on board. Overnight on Junk
 
Accommodation : On Ha Long Bay cruise
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Rising to the tranquil beauty of the bay we have time for an early morning dip with joys and emotions for watching sunrise on sea followed by breakfast. This morning we continue to move around the bay to find more secluded areas. The junk will be near us at all times serving as a back-up vessel for those that require it. At around midday we will return to the main harbor before transferring to our awaiting vehicle for a 3-hour journey back to Hanoi and Noi Bai airport for your flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival pick up and transfer you to Hoian for your overnight
 
Note: 
- Due to operation or weather conditions, itineraries and food may change without prior notice.
- Itinerary in Halong Bay is difference between cruises
 
Accommodation : At the hotel in Hoi An
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

Start your day with a visit to the 4th century Cham religious sanctuary of My Son. It is classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, located in a beautiful green valley surrounded by impressive mountains. While a small site, the ruins at My Son are the largest and most intact remaining in Vietnam. It is also the home to the Museum of Cham Sculpture, which records the development of the culture and history of the Cham people through their elaborate sculptures and carvings. The passable road ends about 1.5 miles from the actual site.
Back to Hoi An. Afternoon take 2-hour boat trip in Thu Bon
We will take a 30-minute boat ride to the Kim Bong Carpentry Village. This is a traditional craft village in Hoi An and formed in the 15th century by the Northerners: Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, Ha Tinh. Visit and learn about the shipbuilding area where wooden fishing vessels are built using traditional techniques. You will also have a stop at the carpentry workshop where carpenters create handcrafted furniture and sculptures
Continue taking another boat ride to Thanh Ha Pottery Village where you will observe how the villagers making pottery products such as vases, pots and kettles. Thanh Ha Pottery Village has over 500 years of history from the establishing period up to now. We then visit Thanh Ha Terra Cotta Park Museum, where masterpiece series includes works of art of human architecture & sculpture are clearly and vividly re-appeared, such as the Leaning Tower of Pisa (Italy), Taj Mahal (India), Sydney Opera House (Australia), the White House (USA), Pyramid (Egypt), Notre Dame (France)… made entirely of clay, made by the artisans in village.
Overnight in Hoian.
 
Accommodation : At the hotel in Hoi An
Meals : Breakfast

After having breakfast, we will have our first glimpse of this beautiful boutique town recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site. The tranquil and charm of Hoi An with its low tiled houses of Chinese appearance, Japanese covered bridge, and the colorful riverside market make it one of Vietnam’s most delightful places.
Then, head to Hue.
The scenery en route is very beautiful. We make a stop at the Marble Mountains, the famed China Beach and the Cham Museum. Continue on our way down to the other side and head to Hue. Stop at Lang Co beach for coffee and refreshments before winding our way up the spectacular Hai Van Pass to admire the stunning views north to Lang Co beach and south to Danang City.
Check in at the hotel. Overnight in Hue.
 
Accommodation : At the hotel in Hue
Meals : Breakfast

We set out for the exploration of Hue's famous highlights, visit the picturesque Thien Mu, or Heavenly Lady Pagoda.
Built in 1601 between the north bank of Perfume Pagoda and a pine forest, it is one of the best know religious and must-see sites in Hue. Here we can see the octagonal tower, a symbol of Hue and an old Austin car which transported the bonze Thich Quang to Sai Gon in 1963 for his self-immolation. Only 4 km far from the Hue city center, both landscape and monuments here are always in harmony and bring a feeling of peaceful, unearthly world for travelers
Next a visit the elaborate mausoleum of former emperor Tu Duc.
Nestled in a narrow wooded valley in Duong Xuan Thuong village, stretching along the Perfume River, Tu Duc mausoleum is considered to be the most beautiful & picturesque sites of Hue city. The tomb was designed by the Emperor Tu Duc himself and this is the largest works of architecture of Nguyen Dynasty’s royal palaces and tombs. Its major parts and buildings have been built even before the King death; therefore, Emperor Tu Duc used it as a retreat area. And later after the coup because of unjust taxation in 1866, Tu Duc continued to use the tomb’s palace as residence.
Continue to visit the Citadel and the Forbidden Purple City.
We then transfer to Hue airport for a flight to Saigon.
Upon arrival in Saigon, have our guide and driver pick you up at the airport for transfer to check-in hotel.
 
Accommodation : At the hotel in Saigon
Meals : Breakfast

Morning, we visit the famous Cu Chi Tunnels which were an incredible underground network constructed by Vietnamese fighters during the long struggle for independence. The tunnels contained hospitals, plus accommodation and schools, and were used as a military base for the Vietcong in the American war
In the afternoon we take a half day to visit all famous sites of this bustling city. 
We head to the Reunification Palace, which was the former residence of the President of Southern Vietnam until end of April 1975, followed by some French colonial structures including the Old Saigon Post Office, the Notre Dame Cathedral. Apart from the religious meaning, the even more special captivating point of this Cathedral is its special neo-Romanesque style of architecture. After visiting the Jade Emperor Pagoda and the War Remnant Museum. 
If time permit, we continue our trip to the bustling Ben Thanh Market, which is firstly well-known as the place for real Vietnamese food. There are a number of vendors and food stalls in the market food section that offers guests many freshly delicious dishes. You also can find any goods for daily use as well as variety of eye-catching local handicrafts, souvenirs here
 
Accommodation : At the hotel in Saigon
Meals : Breakfast

Pick up at your hotel in Saigon and then move 2 hours to Cai Be. The program will start with a quick visit of Cai Be town & the ancient church from the boat. Then, we’ll come to Tân Phong Island for the rowing boat. They will take you deeper into the countryside on smaller canals to enjoy the peaceful time under the shade of mangrove trees. Stop at local garden to enjoy some fruits with hot tea when listening to the traditional music.
Then, start the biking trip on village paths to see the local daily life: orchard, school, church, pagoda, traditional houses... On the way, we can make some stops to see how they wave the dried water-hyacinth to make many products: baskets, bags, hats, wallets, shoes... (You can walk, but see less).
Back to our boat to go across one of the longest rivers in the world, Mekong River, to come to An Bình Island. Travel on the handmade canal to a local house & have lunch at this traditional house. After lunch, we can walk in the local village to visit the local workshop to see how to make rice paper, coconut candy, pop-rice... Enjoy some sweets with a cup of hot tea.
Visit the brick kilns where you can see how the local people create beautiful potteries from clay. The cruise will end at the new boat station of VinhLong city! From here we will pick up and transfer you back to Saigon for your overnight
 
Accommodation : At the hotel in Saigon
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch
 

The time is on your own until we transfer to the airport for your international flight to Vientiane
Flight detail: TBA
The time is on your own until we transfer to the airport for your international flight to Vientiane. Upon arrival and meet your guide, then transfer to your hotel.
 
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Vientiane
 

Train detail: D84@11:25-12:27 Second -Class (Subject to change)
After breakfast, begin your city exploration with visits to the ancient Wat Sisaket, renowned for its beautiful architecture and thousands of Buddha images. Continue to the fascinating Buddha Park, home to an impressive collection of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful riverside scenery. Later, board the train for your journey to the charming adventure town of Vang Vieng. Upon arrival, embark on an exciting tuk-tuk ride through the countryside to discover a stunning hidden angle cave nestled among dramatic limestone mountains. As sunset approaches, enjoy a relaxing long-tail boat ride or kayaking experience along the Nam Song River, taking in the breathtaking natural landscapes. In the evening, stroll through the lively town center and experience the laid-back atmosphere and local culture.
Overnight in Vang vieng
 
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Vang vieng

Train detail: D88@08:55-10:41- Second -Class (Subject to change)

At 7:45 AM, transfer to the train station for a scenic one-hour journey to Muang Xay. Upon arrival, meet your northern driver and continue with a picturesque drive through winding mountain roads, passing authentic villages, rice fields, and breathtaking countryside landscapes. Along the route, stop at a charming green tea farm café for a light lunch (at your own expense) while enjoying the peaceful natural surroundings. The journey to Nong Khiaw takes approximately 3–4 hours, offering plenty of beautiful scenery along the way. Upon arrival, take a short refreshment break at a local café before continuing your adventure. In the late afternoon, hike to Pha Somnang Viewpoint and admire the spectacular sunset views overlooking the valley and tranquil mountains.
Overnight in Nong Khiaw
 
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Nong Khiaw

Wake up early to welcome the day with a stunning sunrise, accompanied by a cup of rich local coffee and a simple, comforting breakfast. Afterwards, enjoy a one-hour scenic boat ride to the peaceful riverside village of Muang Ngoy. Upon arrival, take time to freshen up before hopping into a local vehicle (Tor-Tor) for an immersive exploration of nearby villages, including Ban Na and Ban Bor.
Enjoy a traditional local-style lunch (At your own expense), offering a taste of authentic Lao flavors. After the village visits, return to your hotel and relax on the balcony, soaking in the peaceful river views. In the evening, join the locals for a friendly game of Pétanque—one of the region’s favorite pastimes and a delightful way to connect with the community.
Overnight in Muang Ngoy
 
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Muang Ngoy

After breakfast, embarking on boat to cruise back Nong Khiew. On the way, stop to visit an authentic village Pak Ou, located on the bank of Nam Ou river. Drive from Nong Khiew to Luang Prabang. On the way, visit Pak Ou caves at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Ou Rivers. In these 2 caves are displayed hundreds of sacred centuries-old Buddha images which are the object of pilgrimages during the Lao New Year festivities around mid-April. Heading to Luang Prabang by van. Arrive and check in hotel in Luang Prabang.
Overnight in Luang Prabang
 
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Luang Prabang

Meet your tour guide at the hotel lobby at 8:30 AM and begin an inspiring city tour of Luang Prabang. Start with a visit to the Royal Palace Museum, where remarkable artifacts and historical collections showcase the fascinating legacy of Laos’ royal family. Continue with a leisurely climb to Mount Phousi, offering spectacular panoramic views over the old town, surrounding rivers, and scenic mountains. In the afternoon, travel to the beautiful Kuang Si Waterfall. After a light lunch, enjoy a peaceful walk through shaded forest trails, visit the Bear Rescue Centre, and swim in the crystal-clear turquoise lagoons. On the return journey, stop at a Hmong exhibition village before ending the day at Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Center with a memorable Mekong sunset.
Overnight in Luang Prabang
 
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Luang Prabang

This morning, depart to visit Wat Visoun, the site of impressive Thad Makmo stupa. The rounded dome is stylistically more Sinhalese than Lao. Continue to visit Wat Aham. Then, visit to the most photographed temple, Wat Xiengthong. Located at the end of peninsular closed to the confluence of Mekong and Khan River.
This afternoon, continue to former Royal Palace, now the National Museum. Visit Wat Mai, a temple renowned for its golden bas-relief. During Pimai, the Lao New Year, the Prabang normally housed in the Royal Palace Museum is brought and put on public display in this temple, In the late afternoon, enjoy a relaxing Mekong River sunset cruise while admiring the beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere.
Overnight in Luang Prabang
 
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Luang Prabang

Flight detail: TBA
Free time until your transfer by our driver to the airport for your international flight. Thank you for choosing our Vietnam Laos Tour
 
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: N.A