Get ready for an unforgettable 14-day backpacking adventure from South to North Vietnam — a journey filled with vibrant cities, rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural landscapes, and immersive local experiences. Whether you’re a solo traveler or exploring with friends, this itinerary is designed for those who seek both authenticity and excitement, with a perfect balance of activity and leisure.
Your journey begins in Ho Chi Minh City, where you’ll dive into the city’s energy, explore its street food, and take day trips to the lush Mekong Delta and the historic Cu Chi Tunnels. After soaking up the southern charm, fly north to Da Nang and Hoi An, where you’ll paddle through coconut forests in basket boats, stroll the lantern-lit streets of the ancient town, and snorkel in the clear waters around Cham Island.
From the central coast, your trip continues to Hanoi, where you’ll explore the vibrant Old Quarter and join a guided street food tour. A full-day excursion to Ninh Binh takes you through the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, peaceful countryside roads by bicycle, and stunning landscapes by boat in Trang An or Tam Coc, finishing with panoramic views from Mua Cave.
Heading further north, you’ll journey to Sapa, trekking through terraced rice fields and ethnic minority villages like Y Linh Ho, Lao Chai, Ta Van, and Giang Ta Chai. Stay overnight in a Dzay homestay, try your hand at Vietnamese cooking, and experience local life up close.
Next, the adventure intensifies with a scenic motorbike or Easy Rider tour through the Ha Giang Loop — one of Vietnam’s most awe-inspiring routes. Discover winding mountain passes, limestone plateaus, and remote villages. Highlights include Ma Pi Leng Pass, a boat ride on the emerald waters of Nho Que River, and a peaceful overnight in Du Gia Village surrounded by rice fields and waterfalls.
Your epic journey concludes with a full-day cruise in Ha Long Bay — gliding past iconic limestone karsts, kayaking through hidden caves, and enjoying a sunset party onboard before returning to Hanoi.
With a mix of adventure, nature, and cultural exploration, this tour offers the ultimate way to experience Vietnam in its raw, beautiful, and unforgettable form.
Highlight
- Perfect mix of landscapes: Journey from bustling cities to misty mountains, peaceful countryside, and tropical islands.
- Cultural immersion: Connect with local life in the Mekong Delta, Sapa, and Ha Giang, and enjoy an authentic street food tour in Hanoi.
- Adventurous activities: Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, snorkel around Cham Island, boat along Trang An or Tam Coc, hike to the top of Mua Cave for stunning views, trek through the terraced hills of Sapa, motorbike the Ha Giang Loop, and cruise Ha Long Bay.
- City exploration: Discover the dynamic energy and cultural charm of Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang.
Itinerary
Our driver will be waiting for you at the airport arrival gate, holding a sign with your name. We’ll warmly welcome you to Vietnam and transfer you to your hotel.
7:30: Depart from Ho Chi Minh City for My Tho, located on the Mekong River’s left bank.
Visit the historic Vinh Trang Pagoda.
Board a sampan to cruise past the four legendary islands: Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Tortoise.
Stop at Unicorn Island: stroll through orchards, taste tropical fruits, and enjoy traditional folk music.
Explore local life: visit a fruit plantation, a honeybee farm, and a coconut candy workshop.
Enjoy a hand-rowed sampan ride through the peaceful Thoi Son canal.
Lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: Cycle around Tan Thach village and meet the locals, or relax in a hammock and enjoy the breeze.
17:30: Return to Ho Chi Minh City. Drop-off at your hotel.
Evening: Time to explore Ho Chi Minh City your way—wander, taste, and take in the city’s lively atmosphere at your own rhythm. Stroll, shop, and savor the charm of Ho Chi Minh City at your leisure
12:30 – 13:00: Hotel/Hostel pick-up and depart for Cu Chi Tunnels (1.5-hour drive).
Upon arrival, before exploring the tunnels, you will have a short introduction followed by an introductory video about how the tunnels were constructed and how the people survived in the harsh conditions of wartime. Then, spend your time exploring the remaining area and tunnel systems, which include the specially constructed living areas with kitchens, and bedrooms side by side with other martial facilities like storage, weapons factories, field hospitals, and command centers helping whoever lives inside the tunnels meet their basic needs. Besides, there are also many hidden trap doors and dangerous traps within the maze-like tunnels for security purposes during the war. Afterward, special tea and cassava (guerrilla’s food during the war) will be served.
Break time for relaxation or time for those who want to try the real shooting gun.
19:30: Return to Ho Chi Minh City. Drop off at the hotel/hostel in the center of Ho Chi Minh City.
Evening: Time to explore Ho Chi Minh City your way: wander, taste, and take in the city’s lively atmosphere at your own rhythm.
Check out of your hotel/hostel in Ho Chi Minh City. A pick-up taxi will pick you up from the hotel to the airport.
Our driver will be waiting for you at the airport arrival gate, holding a sign with your name. We’ll warmly welcome you to Da Nang and transfer you to your hotel.
Upon arrival in Da Nang, check in to your hotel/hostel and enjoy free time to explore the city at your own pace.
12.00 – 12.15: The van and tour guide will pick you up at your hotel/hostel in Da Nang.
Start your adventure with Cam Thanh Coconut to be a fisherman at Cam Thanh Coconut Village, you will experience learning traditional fishing techniques and how to row unique Vietnamese bamboo basket boats while exploring the tranquil coconut palm waterways of the past war.
On this tour, we provide authentic social and cultural insight into the local way of life in Vietnam. Furthermore, you will take part in some hands-on activities which are fun, safe, and interesting and are suitable for everybody.
About 14.30: Visit the next destination to Hoi An Old Town.
- Go to the Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall, a colorful mélange of bright gates, dragon statues, and elaborate rooftops. Get an introduction to ancestor worship while visiting the family altar and watching local devotees making offerings.
- You will see remarkably well-preserved old houses Phung Hung Ancient House or Tan Ky Ancient House that have withstood 200 years of weather and war. Learn about the prosperous merchants who used to live in these homes, trading with buyers from all around the world. In particular, you will enjoy art shows at Hoi An Traditional Performing Arts House.
- Make a stop at the Japanese Bridge. The bridge spans a small waterway and was constructed more than 400 years ago to connect the Japanese community with the Chinese who lived on the other side of the water. Admire the carvings and paintings inside the bridge, learning about their symbolism and cultural significance.
- Additionally, visit some of Hoi An’s well-known handicraft shops and artwork galleries. Discover smaller laneways and local neighborhoods, gaining a better appreciation of Hoi An’s endless charm.
- Dinner with Hoi An specialty food.
18:00: Enjoy your time with the boat ride on Hoai River and release the flower lanterns to pray for the best luck to you and your family. You will immerse yourself in the fanciful space of lantern street. Free your time with the night market and enjoy the shimmering space of Hoi An.
18.30: Return to your hotel. Enjoy free time to explore the city at your own pace.
8:00 – 8:30: Pick up at hotel and go to Cua Dai harbour.
9:00: Enjoy the beautiful landscape on a speedboat to Cham Island.
9:30: Arriving at Lang Beach.Visiting the Marine Protected Area, The Boat Shelter, Hai Tang pagoda, Traditional fishing Village
10:00: Swimming and snorkeling
11:30: Staying at Bai Ong ecological zone or Bai Chong beach, swimming, and taking time to enjoy a seafood lunch.
14:00: Packing luggage for return trip to Hoi An
14:30: Drop off at the Hotel. Enjoy free time to explore the city at your own pace.
Check out of your hotel/hostel in Da Nang. A taxi will pick you up and transfer you to Da Nang Airport for your flight to Hanoi.
Upon arrival in Hanoi, our driver will be waiting to pick you up at the airport and take you to your hotel/hostel for check-in. Take the rest of the day to relax and unwind.
18:15 – 21:00:
- Begin your culinary journey through the charming and bustling Hanoi Old Quarter. As you explore the narrow alleyways and vibrant streets, you’ll stop at various food vendors and hidden local gems.
- Taste a selection of delectable starters, main courses, snacks, and a mouthwatering dessert, all carefully chosen based on your preferences.
- Throughout the tour, your guide will share insights into the history and culture of the dishes you’re enjoying, making it a truly immersive experience.
- Visit Hoan Kiem Lake, Beer Street, Hanoi Train Street
21:00: Arrive back at your hotel in Hanoi. Relax and unwind after the food tour.
07:00: Pick up from your hotel and travel to Ninh Binh province, about 120 km from Hanoi.
09:00: Short break for 20 minutes.
10:30: Visit Hoa Lu ancient capital, the first capital of Vietnam. Explore the temples of King Dinh and King Le, built in the 17th century.
11:30: Enjoy a 45-minute cycling tour around the village to discover local life.
12:30: Buffet lunch with local foods such as goat meat and fried rice. Vegetarian options are available.
13:30-14:00:
- OPTION 1: Visit Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a beautiful tunnel cave system. Take a boat trip to see caves like Sang Cave, Toi Cave, and Nau Ruou Cave.
- OPTION 2: Visit Tam Coc by bamboo boat. Enjoy the charming beauty of paddy fields, river, and cave systems, often called “Halong Bay” on land.
16:00: Visit Mua Cave. Climb 500 steps to reach the top of Lying Dragon Mountain for a panoramic view of Tam Coc.
17:00: Return to Hanoi.
19:30: Arrive in Hanoi and get dropped off at the bus office. You can leave your luggage at the bus office and explore the Old Quarter.
22:30: Go back to the bus office for the pick-up.
05:00-06:00: Arrive in Sapa Town. A shuttle bus will take you to your hostel, where you can rest and have breakfast.
08:30: Begin your tour with a 6 km walk down to the southeast of Sapa along the side of Muong Hoa Valley to Y Linh Ho village, home to the Black Hmong people.
Continue with a 3 km trek to Lao Chai village, where you will stop for a simple lunch. Explore the village and interact with the locals.
After lunch, continue trekking through terraced rice fields to Ta Van, a village of the Dzay minority people. This trek is relatively easy, but the trail can be slippery if it rains, so good footwear is recommended.
11:30-12:00: Arrive at Ta Van village, a commune of Sapa, 12 km from the center of town. This area is home to many ethnic groups, including the Day and the H’mong. Visit landmarks such as Sapa Ancient Stone Field, Cau May, and House on Stilts. Have lunch at the homestay.
14:00: Check-in at the homestay. You can join a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Vietnamese spring rolls.
18:30: Enjoy a dinner of local dishes and spend the night at the homestay.
08:30: After a restful night and breakfast, take an 8 km walk to visit Giang Ta Chai and Su Pan villages, home to the Red Dzao and H’mong people.
Reach Giang Ta Chai, located at the edge of Muong Hoa Valley, is known for its scenic beauty and traditional customs. Su Pan is a less-traveled village with a small population.
Explore breathtaking landscapes, including a stunning waterfall, rattan bridges, and lush vegetation with ferns and orchids.
Have lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Sapa town. Free explore Sapa town in the afternoon.
18:30-19:00: Board the sleeper bus for the journey to Ha Giang.
02:30: Arrive in Ha Giang city. Check into your hostel and rest for a few hours.
09:00: After breakfast at the hostel, meet your guide and start your journey on the loop. The Bac Sun Pass and Quan Ba Heaven Gate offer stunning landscapes.
Marvel at the Quan Ba Twin Mountains and pass through the Can Ty Pass, surrounded by picturesque hills and mountains.
12:00: Have lunch in Yen Minh Town.
13:00: Continue through Tham Ma Pass and Dong Van Karst Plateau. Visit the Hmong King’s Palace, known for its grand architecture and fascinating history.
18:00: Arrive in Dong Van. Enjoy a local Vietnamese dinner and live music. Spend the evening exploring the ancient town.
Overnight at a 1-star hotel in Dong Van town.
09:00: After breakfast, head to the Sky Pass, offering breathtaking views. Ride through Ma Pi Leng Pass, one of Vietnam’s most beautiful passes.
Visit Hmong villages and enjoy a boat ride on the Nho Que River for a lifetime experience.
12:00: Lunch break in Meo Vac, Mau Due, or Lung Ho village.
14:00: Drive through the mountainous area to Du Gia village. Enjoy magnificent views from Sa Li Pass and Lung Ho Viewpoint.
16:00: Check into a homestay in the Tay ethnic village. Experience the local way of life and have a family dinner.
Overnight at the homestay, surrounded by green rice fields.
09:00: After breakfast with mountain views, relax and swim at Du Gia Waterfall. Visit Du Gia Market (on Saturdays) and Duong Thuong Viewpoint.
Visit Lung Tam Village, known for its hemp weaving.
13:00: Have lunch at a local restaurant and head back to Ha Giang.
15:30: Arrive in Ha Giang. Enjoy dinner on your own and prepare for the return journey.
17:00 or 19:00: Board the VIP sleeper bus for the return to Hanoi. Overnight on the bus.
0:30 or 2:00 AM: Arrive back in Hanoi. Stay in a hostel for morning layovers
08:00 – 09:15: Pick up from hotel (Hanoi Old Quarter) and depart for Bai Chay Island (Halong), with a rest stop on the way. A stop at Pearl Farm in Ha Long city
11:30 – 12:00: Arrive at Halong Harbor, welcome aboard, and safety briefing. Enjoy a Vietnamese lunch, passing islets like Cock Fighting and Thumb.
13:45 – 14:00: Visit Surprising Cave to see stalagmites and stalactites, then go kayaking or take a bamboo boat in Luon Cave. Explore Titov Island, relax on the beach, and climb Titov Peak for panoramic views.
16:30: Enjoy a sunset party with tea, wine, fruits, and cakes. Sunbathe on the upper deck with music.
18:00 – 18:30: Disembark for a bus ride back to Hanoi, with a short break on the way.
21:00 – 21:30: Your 14-day trip concludes in Hanoi Old Quarter.
Inclusions
- Airport transfers (pick-up and drop-off)
- English-speaking tour guide
- All transfers by air-conditioned tourist vehicle
- Meals as specified in the itinerary
- Accommodation as listed in the itinerary
- Ha Giang motorbike trip with semi-automatic motorbike, helmet, and protective gear
- Entrance fees to all attractions mentioned in the itinerary
Exclusions
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips for tour guide
- Meals and activities not specified in the itinerary
- Beverages (soft drinks, alcohol, coffee, etc.)
- Ha Giang Loop Easy Rider (motorbike driver): 40 USD/person
- Single supplement: 250 USD (Applied for Comfort Package only)
We recommend packing comfortable and lightweight clothing suitable, sturdy footwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat or sunglasses. We also recommend bringing a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
Yes, we can arrange vegetarian, vegan, or other special meals upon request. Please let us know in advance so we can accommodate your dietary needs.
Yes, an international motorbike license with the 1968 version and has a stamp of A1 is required to do self-drive in Ha Giang Loop.
The tour involves The tour includes trekking, motorbike rides, and long bus journeys, which might be challenging for very young children or elderly individuals with mobility issues. Please consult with us to discuss any special requirements or accommodations.
Your large suitcases will be safely stored at our trusted partner hostels or offices while you’re on the move. We suggest bringing a small backpack with daily essentials during each segment of the tour.
