DAY 01: HOI AN: HOI AN ANCIENT TOWN WALKING TOUR

• Explore the enchanting city of Hoi An with a local guide, delving into its storied streets to uncover the rich tapestry of architecture, history, traditions, and legends in a captivating three-hour tour.

• Set out on a journey through the narrow lanes of Hoi An, a city where time seems to stand still, adorned with a UNESCO classification. This walking tour introduces you to five of the city's most iconic landmarks, including the Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An's enduring charm, and historic marvels like the Tan Ky House, the Fujian Chinese Temple, and the bustling local market. Each step through this mystical city offers a window into its soul, blending cultural heritage with timeless beauty.

Please note: The tour runs from 08:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Meeting point: Emm Hoi An Hotel (No. 187 Ly Thuong Kiet, Minh An ward, Hoi An, Quang Nam)

Hotel: EMM Hoi An Hotel (Superior) or similar

DAY 02: HOI AN - HUE: HAI VAN PASS - LANG CO LAGOON - HUE IMPERIAL CITADEL (B)

• Today, you will transfer from Hoi An to Hue, passing over the Hai Van Pass & Lang Co Lagoon, arguably the most scenic and iconic route in Vietnam.

• This afternoon, discover Hue's rich cultural heritage with this visit to the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where echoes of the past resonate through the restored palaces and temples, mirroring the splendour of Beijing's Forbidden City. This historical heart of Hue offers a profound glimpse into the cultural and architectural achievements of the Nguyen emperors. At the end of your journey, we will escort you back to your accommodation.

Please note: The drive begins at 8:00 AM and we cover around 150 KM.

Optional: PRI\HD\THUNG NHAM BIRD VALLEY

• This afternoon, escape to the tranquil beauty of Thung Nham Bird Valley.

• Experience the calm of a traditional boat ride along the serene waterways, gliding past hidden caves and forested islands. As you approach the heart of the valley, marvel at the sight of flocks of native birds, creating a picturesque scene amidst their natural habitat.

• Please note: The tour start time may vary but will take place in the late afternoon lasting approximately 1.5 hrs. The volume of birds will vary depending on the season

Hotel: EMM Hue Hotel (Superior) or similar

DAY 03: HUE - PHONG NHA: VINH MOC TUNNELS & MUSEUM (B)

• The morning is at leisure to soak up the atmospheric city before our journey continues to Phong Nha. Stopping at the Vinh Moc Tunnels en route. For those who love local culture, there’s the chance to book our optional excursion to Dong Ba Market and an ancient tomb,

• We begin our afternoon journey by first exploring Vinh Moc Tunnels and Museum, where you can delve into the underground network that sheltered local villagers during this time, before heading towards Phong Nha, home to some of the world's largest caves.

Please note: The drive begins at 1:00 PM and covers 250 KM.

Optional: PRI\HD\MAD MARKETS AND MAUSOLEUM

• This morning, delve into the rich heritage of Hue with a visit to Dong Ba Market and one of the majestic tombs of the Nguyen emperors.

• Start your journey at Dong Ba Market, where the vibrant stalls overflow with fresh produce, aromatic spices, and traditional goods. Engage with local vendors and experience the lively atmosphere that reflects Hue’s cultural essence. Following this, step into the serene grounds of a Nguyen emperor’s tomb, an architectural masterpiece blending royal grandeur and natural beauty. As you explore, learn about the legacy of the Nguyen dynasty and the tomb’s symbolic design, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s imperial past.

Please note: The tour begins at 8:00 AM and concludes at 11:00 PM.

Hotel: Saigon Phong Nha Hotel (ROH) or similar

DAY 04: PHONG NHA - VINH: PHONG NHA CAVE - GENERAL GIAP'S TOMB - NGANG PASS (B)

• Today we make for Vinh, exploring Vietnam's incredible and vast caves, before stopping at the tomb of a beloved general and driving down the Ngang pass.

• On our drive today we will first pause at Phong Nha Cave, renowned for its impressive underground river. Enjoy a serene boat ride, gliding through the cave's majestic formations. Next, visit the revered tomb of General Vo Nguyen Giap, a significant figure in Vietnamese history, where your driver and guide will be able to share details of the man and why the locals so revere him. Continue your journey down the picturesque Ngang Pass, known for its breathtaking views of the mountains and coastline. Upon reaching Vinh, our driver will transfer you to the hotel for your stay tonight.

Please note: The drive begins at 8.00 AM and we cover around 250 KM.

Hotel: Sai Gon - Kim Lien Hotel (Deluxe) or similar

DAY 05: VINH - NINH BINH VIA HANG MUA CAVE – THUNG NHAM BIRD VALLEY (B)

• After breakfast, enjoy a picturesque drive through the countryside to Ninh Binh, a destination of natural beauty and cultural significance.

• Upon arrival, visit the stunning Hang Mua Cave, where a climb up its stone steps offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. After exploring this remarkable site, you'll be transferred to your hotel in Ninh Binh to relax and unwind for the night. Here you can enjoy the views or continue with our optional excursion to the nearby Thung Nham Bird Valley and enjoy a short boat ride through the waters.

Please note: The drive begins at 8.00 AM and we cover around 300KM. There are around 500 steps to the viewpoint at Hang Mua.

Hotel: Tam Coc Rice Fields Resort (Bungalow mountain view and rice fields) or similar

DAY 06: NINH BINH - MAI CHAU : CUC PHUONG PRIMATE CENTER - MAI CHAU VALLEY WALK (B)

• Discover Vietnam's natural beauty and cultural heritage with a visit to the Cuc Phuong Primate Rescue Center and the serene Mai Chau Valley.

• Begin the day at the Endangered Primate Rescue Centre, a sanctuary for rare species like langurs, gibbons, and slow lorises, where you'll learn about efforts to combat the illegal wildlife trade. Supported by the Frankfurt Zoological Society since 1993, this centre combines conservation with research and education. Later, immerse yourself in the rustic charm of Mai Chau Valley with a two-hour walk-through White Thai villages, weaving communities, and lush rice fields. This journey offers a glimpse into the daily life, traditions, and heritage of the White Thai people, with the option to visit a local home for a truly enriching cultural experience.

Please note:

• The drive begins at 8.00 AM and we cover around 160 KM.

• The afternoon walking tour starts at 03:30 PM and finishes at 05:30 PM Sturdy footwear is advised. you will cover around 3 KM.

Hotel: Mai Chau Lodge (Superior Mountain View) or similar

DAY 07: MAI CHAU - HANOI: THUNG KHE PASS - TEMPLE OF LITERATURE - TRAN QUOC PAGODA (B)

• Today we make our way to the bustling Hanoi, passing through the scenic Thung Khe Pass, before delving into Hanoi's rich cultural heritage through its Confucian, and Buddhist landmarks with an afternoon city tour.

• Upon arrival in Hanoi, the tour takes a scholarly turn at the Temple of Literature, the first university of Vietnam, dedicated to Confucius. Wander through its peaceful gardens and explore the halls where scholars once studied, gaining insights into Vietnam's academic and philosophical traditions. Later, visit the Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, beautifully situated on a small island in West Lake, offering a tranquil end to your journey with its towering structure.

Tour ends, your room is available until 12:00 PM on the following day.

Please note: The drive begins at 8.00 AM and we cover around 150 KM

Tour Inclusion

• Accommodation is based on a shared Twin/Double room including breakfast unless otherwise mentioned

• Meals as mentioned (B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, D= Dinner)

• 01 Throughout Local English-speaking guide (supplements may apply for other languages)

• Transfer as mentioned for the whole group travel together unless otherwise mentioned

• Activities as outlined in the itinerary

• Service charge and current government VAT/GST tax

• Check-in time is usually 2 pm and check-out time is 12 pm for Asia. This is subject to individual hotel regulations. Early or late service is subject to availability, often with a surcharge.

Tour pick up location: EMM Hoi An Hotel (187 Ly Thuong Kiet, Hoi An) - Hotel lobby

Tour drop off location: Flower Garden Hotel (46 Nguyen Truong To, Ba Dinh, Hanoi) - Hotel lobby

Departure Dates: Departing on every Thursdays

Meals Included: 7 x breakfast

Adult/Child sharing rules:

• Child rate applicable when sharing with 2 adults

• Child rate applicable when sharing with 1 adult, adult pays sole use rate

• Other (please specify)