Pathways Through Vietnam

Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, our friendly driver will meet you and escort you to your hotel in Hanoi. Once you’ve checked in, take your time to unwind from your flight and begin soaking in the atmosphere of Vietnam’s vibrant capital. 

Join your guide for a full-day exploration of Hanoi’s rich history and culture. Begin with a visit to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university, followed by the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex and the picturesque One Pillar Pagoda. Head to Tran Quoc Pagoda by the shores of West Lake, a symbol of Hanoi’s spiritual heritage. Explore the Old Quarter by cyclo, navigating its bustling narrow streets lined with centuries-old architecture. Conclude the day at a traditional craft village or local artisan studio to experience Hanoi’s creative community firsthand.

After breakfast, depart Hanoi and drive directly to Halong Bay, bypassing any return trip later. Upon arrival at the pier, board your boutique overnight cruise and begin your voyage through the emerald waters and towering limestone karsts of Halong Bay. Savor a fresh seafood lunch on board before taking part in afternoon activities such as kayaking in secluded lagoons or exploring one of the bay’s famous caves. In the evening, enjoy sunset on deck followed by a romantic dinner as your ship anchors in a quiet cove. This is a truly unforgettable experience in one of Vietnam’s most iconic natural wonders.

Start your day with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the sun rises over the bay. After a light breakfast, continue cruising through less-visited areas, with the chance to visit a floating village or hidden beach. Brunch is served before disembarkation. From the pier, drive directly to Ninh Binh where stunning karst landscapes await. Upon arrival, settle into your countryside lodge. 

Today begins with a tranquil sampan boat ride in Tam Coc, where you’ll glide past limestone cliffs, golden rice fields, and cave passages on the Ngo Dong River. Afterward, enjoy a garden-to-table lunch at a local restaurant. Continue with a visit to Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient royal capital from the 10th century, where you’ll explore the historic temples of the Dinh and Le dynasties. In the afternoon, challenge yourself with a hike up to the viewpoint of Mua Cave for panoramic views over the Tam Coc valley—a highlight for adventure and photography lovers. In the evening, transfer to Ninh Binh railway station and board the overnight Reunification Express train bound for Dong Hoi in Quang Binh province, gateway to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.

Arrive early in Dong Hoi and your tour guide will pick you up and bring you for a breakfast. Later in the morning, join a guided group tour:

You will explore the most impressive Paradise cave – the longest dry cave in Asia (located in Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park’s core zone, 25km about Phong Nha cave, 75 km about Dong Hoi and 1h20 minutes driving).

Lunch at local restaurant in Phong Nha village before exploring National Park in the afternoon

After 25 minutes on the boat, visitors will arrive Phong Nha caves  and take a couple hours to see the cave. This cave is called as water cave, is famous for its rock formation which has been given names such as the “Lion”, the “Fairy Caves”, the “Royal Court”, and the “Buddha”.

Start your day early in Phong Nha and transfer to Tan Hoa Village, where you'll receive a safety briefing and gear before beginning your trek. Hike through flat farmland to reach the Rao Nan River, cross it, and explore the stunning Rat Cave with its impressive stalactites and unique heart-shaped dome.

Continue your adventure by climbing Baby Hill and trekking through Hung Ton Valley to reach Hung Ton Cave. Descend a 15-meter ladder with safety harnesses to discover ancient fossils and then swim through the underground river passage of the cave. The journey opens into the scenic To Mo Valley, where you'll enjoy a packed lunch and refreshing swim in a beautiful stream.

After a short rest, hike back through lush valleys and farmland to end the day. Return to Phong Nha in the evening, completing an unforgettable caving and jungle experience in the Tu Lan cave system.

After breakfast, take a scenic drive south along coastal roads and the historic Ho Chi Minh Highway to Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital. Upon arrival, enjoy a local lunch before starting your tour of Hue's historic sites. Visit the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and stroll through its ancient palaces and temples. Later, take a leisurely boat ride along the Perfume River, stopping at Thien Mu Pagoda, an elegant symbol of Hue’s spiritual history. Check in to your hotel and relax for the evening with some royal cuisine, a Hue specialty.

Begin your day with visits to the Royal Tombs of Emperor Khai Dinh and Emperor Tu Duc, showcasing impressive architecture and serene landscapes. Depart Hue for Hoi An, traveling via the Hai Van Pass, a coastal road famous for its breathtaking mountain and ocean views. Make a quick photo stop at Lang Co Beach. Upon arrival in Hoi An, check in to your charming hotel. In the evening, take a gentle walk through the atmospheric Ancient Town, illuminated by traditional lanterns and lined with heritage shophouses.

Explore the beautifully preserved streets of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit key landmarks such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Old House, and Phuc Kien Assembly Hall. Then, join a hands-on cooking class, starting with a market visit followed by preparing and enjoying your own Vietnamese dishes. 

Get a deeper feel for local life with a bike ride to Tra Que Vegetable Village. Join in farming activities like planting, watering, or harvesting herbs using traditional methods. Learn about organic farming and enjoy a refreshing herbal foot bath, followed by a rustic home-cooked lunch with a local family. The afternoon is free for more exploring or relaxing at An Bang Beach. Consider a sunset drink or dinner at a beachside café to end your central Vietnam journey.

Transfer to Da Nang Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, your driver will transfer you to your hotel. Spend your afternoon soaking in the city's dynamic vibe: visit Nguyen Hue Walking Street, shop in modern malls or traditional markets, or sip on a Vietnamese iced coffee in a stylish rooftop café. Enjoy the contrast between the ancient and the modern as you explore Vietnam’s largest metropolis.

Join a guided morning excursion to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an incredible underground network used by Vietnamese resistance fighters during the war. Crawl through restored tunnel sections and learn about the resilience and ingenuity of those who lived and fought here. Return to the city for lunch and spend your afternoon exploring other cultural attractions such as the War Remnants Museum, Ben Thanh Market, and the bustling Chinatown of Cholon. Wrap up your day with a sunset coffee at a rooftop café overlooking the city skyline.

Enjoy your final breakfast in Vietnam. Depending on your departure time, take a last stroll through the city’s energetic streets or pick up a few final souvenirs. Your driver will transfer you to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your flight home. This marks the end of your thrilling Vietnam Nature Trail journey, filled with adventure, discovery, and unforgettable memories.