intrepid bike tour vietnam

Vietnam: Hike, Bike & Kayak

11 days | cycle through rice paddies and villages, hike valleys and kayak turquoise waters of unesco islands.

The spectacular valleys and mountains of Vietnam were simply made for active exploration. On this 11-day adventure, you’ll put on your hiking shoes and get ready for an immersive journey that gets away from the bright lights of Hanoi and under the skin of Vietnam's bucolic countryside. In between trekking and cycling through lush landscapes, you’ll stop in at local villages and learn about traditional life, spending the night in rural homestays. After cycling through the valleys of Mai Chau and Ninh Binh and getting your heart rate up on Sapa’s hiking trails, you’ll head to UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cat Ba Island and kayak across the turquoise waters of Lan Ha Bay. Spend a night in a waterside resort in the bay and make the most of every sunset, before heading back to Hanoi and indulging in street food.

Trip overview

• Kayak around limestone karsts and explore the secluded lagoons and caves of Lan Ha Bay – the lesser visited but just as beautiful sister of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ha Long Bay.
• Hike through the picturesque valleys surrounding Sapa and visit local communities on a full-day active adventure – the best way to get to know a place is on two feet, after all!
• Cycle out to Mai Chau and on through the world-renowned karst landscapes to Ninh Binh. This area is known for its lush valleys and natural beauty.
• Explore Hanoi with ample free time to indulge in street food, get to know the locals at streetside eateries and hunt down one of the famed Vietnamese iced coffees.
• Spend some time in homestays, relaxing after full day cycling and hiking trips with traditional home-cooked meals and time to soak up the sunset form a hammock – this is the best chance to get to know the locals!
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, World Bicycle Relief. Donations provide school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas with bicycles that provide access to education, healthcare, and income.
• This trip has a number of activities to get your pulse going. While prior training for each activity is not necessary, a moderate level of fitness will help you to get the most out of all the activities.
• The hike in the hills of Sapa is approximately 10 km (6.2 mi) in total, on sometimes steep and uneven terrain.
• You’ll spend two days on your bike, riding to Mai Chau and Ninh Binh, with approximately 60 to 70 km of cycling each day. The cycling in these areas is relatively flat, and you’ll have time to get used to your bike in Hanoi before departing.
• There are 3 nights in a homestay on this trip in Khau Pha, Sapa and Mai Chau. Accommodation will be in multishare rooms with simple bedding and shared bathroom facilities. While accommodation is simple, the warm welcome and home-cooked meals will be comforting after a day of exercise.

Xin chao! Welcome to Vietnam. Your adventure begins in Hanoi with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, why not head out and discover Hanoi at your own pace. Take a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and visit Ngoc Son Temple, start sampling the delicious street food or visit the Museum of Ethnology to find out more about the homes and lives of Vietnam’s ethnic communities. After the welcome meeting, you might like to join your group for an optional dinner at one of Hanoi's fantastic restaurants or streetside eateries.

• Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

After breakfast this morning, escape the city and board a private minibus to the small village of Khau Pha – a community-based tourism project designed to empower and bring positive impact for Vietnam’s ethnic minorities. Located just below the spectacular Khau Phạ Pass in an area of natural beauty, this area has all of the best features of Northern Vietnam – think green terraced rice paddies, clear streams, towering hills and few tourists. After lunch, go on a relaxed walk around the village to see the rich cultural heritage of Khau Pha, like how the locals create traditional Thai fabric and cloth. After the walk, you’ll head to dinner and then settle in for the night in one of the four stilt houses that have been redesigned by local families.

• Homestay (1 night)
• Traditional Thai Cloth making demonstration
• Khau Pha Community Village Walk
• Khau Pha Community Village Homestay

Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

Start the day early and drive to the town of Sapa, the starting point for today’s trek. You’ll stop for lunch and photo ops along the way before arriving in Lao Chai. From here, join your local guide and start your hike into the heart of the Vuon Quoc via Hoang Lien State Park, trekking through the dramatic landscapes of rural Vietnam on a trek to Ta Van. Along the way, you'll pass by terraced farms ripe with corn and rice, over brooks and through villages. When you arrive in the small village, sit down for a well-earned home-cooked dinner and settle into your local family homestay.

• Sapa - Lao Chai to Ta Van trek & Homestay

Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours. Your trekking distance will be approximately 10 km (6.2 mi).

You’ll need to pack your overnight essentials into a smaller daypack, which you’ll carry on the trek for your homestay tonight. You can store your main luggage in Sapa overnight.

This morning you’ll trek to Su Pan before taking some time to rest your feet on a bus ride back to Sapa. In the afternoon, the group returns to Hanoi, giving you a chance to rest, take a nap or play some road trip games with your fellow travellers. When you arrive back in Hanoi, maybe seek a bird's eye view of the city from one of the popular rooftop bars or stop street side for dinner and unwind with one of the famed iced coffees.

• Sapa - Ta Van to Su Pan trek

Vietnam's capital is best explored on foot, so this morning your group will head out on a city walking tour. See the final resting place of Vietnam's revered revolutionary at Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum and Museum before stopping by the Temple of Literature. Although the shrine was originally built in the 11th century and is therefore considered to be the city's oldest temple, the current structure and shrine to Confucius date back to the 18th century. This afternoon, jump on a bike for a leisurely cycling trip around Hanoi's West Lake. Tonight you’ll have free time to grab some Bahn Mi or Bun Cha (noodles with grilled meat) for dinner.

• Hanoi - Old Quarter Walking Tour
• Hanoi - West Lake bike ride
• Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh Complex

Leave Hanoi behind this morning and jump on your bike for a cycling trip to the Mai Chau Valley. There are some great photo opportunities along the way, including the viewpoint of Mai Chau – home to a variety of minority groups with their own unique cultures and languages. You’ll also have the opportunity to help local farmers plant rice seeds into the fields! Arrive in Mai Chau and head to the village of Pom Coong, where your local guide will introduce you to your hosts for lunch, and provide information on the region's people, lifestyles, customs and culture. This is a great opportunity to experience the local area, chat with your hosts and gain a real insight into life in this region. After lunch, you’ll have some free time before saddling up for another cycling trip to the nearby villages. Back at the homestay tonight, relax with a cold drink while watching the sun set over the mountains.

• Mai Chau - Pom Coong Village visit & traditional lunch
• Mai Chau - Cycling

Your cycling distance today will be approximately 60 km (37 mi).

At the homestay tonight, you’ll sleep on mattresses in a communal room. Bedding and mosquito nets are provided. Shared toilet and bathroom facilities are basic.

After breakfast this morning, you’ll set out again on your bike on a cycling trip from Mai Chau to Ninh Binh – a region well known for its lush green valleys, karst mountains and conservation areas. Ride through more paddy fields, testing your riding skills (or suspension) with shallow potholes and passing farmers drawn by water buffalo. After a day riding through green fields, small villages and waterways, you’ll have a free evening to recharge.

• Mai Chau to Ninh Binh cycling

Your cycling distance today will be approximately 70 km (43 mi).

Catch a bus this morning from Ninh Binh to Hai Phong, then jump on a ferry to Cat Ba Island. This island sits at the southeastern edge of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ha Long Bay. Lan Ha Bay, where Cat Ba can be found, is part of Ha Long Bay but with the additional attraction of white-sand beaches. When you arrive, check in to your peaceful hilltop accommodation and soak up a free afternoon by taking it easy in a hammock. Alternatively, you can opt to keep your heart rate up with a hike or a trip to the beach.

• Lodge (1 night)

Explore the waters and limestone karsts of Lan Ha Bay on a full-day boat trip today. Get up close to the karsts on a short kayak paddle in the still waters beside the tree-clad outcrops – Ha Long Bay's World Heritage designation was extended to the Cat Ba archipelago due to its similar aesthetic of turquoise water and junk boats that are a quintessential picture of Vietnam – and, there are less tourists here, too! You’ll have lunch aboard the boat, with plenty of opportunities for a cheeky selfie. Spend a second night on Cat Ba Island tonight, with the evening free to visit the local restaurants and bars.

• Cat Ba Island - Kayaking

Say goodbye to Cat Ba Island this morning and head back to Hanoi. Arrive in the late afternoon and make the most of your free time – maybe head down to the markets for some last-minute souvenir shopping or visit one of the city's many museums or historical sites. The Fine Arts Museum and Hoa Lo 'Hanoi Hilton' Prison are good options. In the evening, why not head out for a farewell dinner with your group and toast the end of this amazing active adventure.

• Hanoi - Hoa Lo 'Hanoi Hilton' Prison - VND50000
• Hanoi - Fine Arts Museum - VND30000

There are no activities planned after breakfast today and your adventure comes to an end. You're free to leave at any time after check out. If you'd like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation. There's plenty to see if you'd like to continue exploring Hanoi or further afield – maybe hop onto an Urban Adventure tonight and discover more of Hanoi's street food scene.

• Hanoi - Street Food Experience Urban Adventure - USD40
• Hanoi - Crowd-free Morning Highlights of the City - USD89

10 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 3 dinners

Private minibus, Bicycle, Boat

Hotel (5 nights), Homestay (3 nights), Lodge (2 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport) for train tickets. Fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases, you will be required to cover the cost of issuing new tickets. 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Day 2 (Sapa homestay) and Day 6 (Mai Chau homestay) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 3. Bicycle hire is included in your trip price. Please advise your height at time of booking so as we can organise a suitable sized bike. 4. Helmets are compulsory and we do not allow anyone to ride without one. You can bring your own to ensure fit and quality, or purchase one that meets international safety standards on the ground. Your leader can assist with this.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Cycle Northern Vietnam

Health Safety +

• If you love the feel of a bike between your legs, the wind in your (helmet-covered) hair and tropical breeze on your face then this speedy but comprehensive 8 day adventure is for you
• A bike lets you see Vietnam like never before – you’ll go from road to beaten track to something way beyond
• Think of the calories you’ll burn and the appetite you’ll work up cycling around Vietnam’s incredible landscape – all the more reason to indulge in the wealth of delicious local and regional food
• This two-wheeled adventure will show you all the different sides of this country – wildlife-filled natural landscapes, small villages and ancient ruins, along with the region’s liveliest city
• What better way to finish a good week's cycling than relaxing on an overnight boat cruise on the majestic Halong Bay
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, World Bicycle Relief. Donations provide school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas with bicycles that provide access to education, healthcare, and income.

What's this trip about?

Travel themes.

• Cycling & Biking
• Hiking & Walking
• Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

Destinations

Attractions.

• Ho Chi Minh
• Adventure & Adrenaline

Trip includes

• Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
• Hanoi - One Pillar Pagoda & HCM stilt house
• Guided Hanoi city bike ride
• Guided & vehicle-supported cycling in Mai Chau
• Guided & vehicle-supported cycling in Pu Luong National Park
• Guided & vehicle-supported cycling in Cuc Phuong National Park
• Guided & vehicle-supported cycling near Ninh Binh
• Halong Bay - Overnight Boat Cruise

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Your Cycle Vietnam adventure comes to an end today. There are no activities planned and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. If you are sticking around then there are plenty of things to see and do in and around Hanoi.

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Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

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Dates & Availability

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Intrepid Travel .

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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Our group size has an average of just ten travellers, which allows us to get off the beaten track, use local accommodation and transport, and really get to know the culture. It also ensures we are contributing to the local economy; by choosing local suppliers we were able to keep AUD 60 million in local economies in 2012. We’re also working hard to reduce our carbon footprint and were the first in our sector to introduce carbon offset trips. This, along with our many corporate sustainability activities, has meant we’re one of the travel industry’s leaders in responsible travel.

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Vietnam Express Southbound

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Cycle Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• COVID-19 protected
• Bicycle tour
• Customizable
• Booking Type Instant booking
• duration 13 days
• tour type Small group Request as private
• age requirement 14-99 yrs
• max group size 16
• guiding method Fully guided
• Tour Code BM-3606

• Starts Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
• Ends Bangkok, Thailand
• Explore Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand in just 13 days on this speedy but comprehensive adventure.
• See Indochina as you’ve never seen it before – from the seat of a bicycle. Cycling is the ultimate way get off the beaten track!
• Work up an appetite for Southeast Asia's famously delicious local and regional food.
• Get among nature, wildlife, small villages and ancient ruins, as well as the region's most lively cities.
• Cover approximately 440 km on this itinerary, averaging around 50 km each riding day, with four non-riding days to refresh ands recuperate.
• Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City
• Day 2: Mekong Delta
• Day 3: Chau Doc
• Day 4: Phnom Penh
• Day 5: Phnom Penh
• Day 6: Phnom Penh
• Day 7: Siem Reap
• Day 8: Siem Reap
• Day 9: Siem Reap
• Day 10: Sa Kaew
• Day 11: Kabinburi
• Day 12: Bangkok
• Day 13: Bangkok
• Hotel (10 nights), homestay (1 night), resort (1 night)
• 11 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
• Bicycle , Support vehicle , Public bus , Public boat
• An expert tour leader
• Phnom Penh - Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) & Choeung Ek
• Phnom Penh - Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda
• Siem Reap - Three Day Angkor Pass
• Angkor - Full day temple cycling tour
• Kabinburi - Alms giving at morning market
• Any international flights to Ho Chi Minh City and from Bangkok are not included in this price. We always recommend that you arrive 1 day prior to your tour starting date.
• Travel insurance is not included in this Cycle Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand tour. Travel insurance is mandatory to buy. World Nomads' travel insurance has been designed by travelers for travelers.
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No additional cancellation fees apply for this Cycle Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand tour. You can cancel the tour up to 58 days prior departure and avoid paying the full amount, but your deposit paid is non-refundable. No refund applies for cancellations within 57 days of departure.

For any tour departures within 27 May 2024, full payment is required. For tours that depart later than 27 May 2024, a deposit is required to confirm this tour, and the remaining balance will be charged 57 days before trip departure.

Cycle Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand tour requires that you have adequate and valid travel insurance covering medical and personal accidents, including repatriation costs and emergency evacuation. World Nomads offers travel insurance for independent travelers and intrepid families.

For this Cycle Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand tour getting the required visa(s) is the responsibility for each individual traveller, as visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. We recommend to check with your local embassies representing the countries that you are traveling to, as part of this itinerary.

• To complete this trip it is important that you are both confident and competent in riding a bicycle.
• You’ll be cycling for up to 70 km per day on varied terrain – this trip is for the reasonably fit.
• The weather in Indochina can be varied. Be prepared to get sweaty and for the occasional rain storm, which may require a change of plans.
• Proof of vaccination against COVID-19 is no longer mandatory on departures after 1st January 2023. Nonetheless, all travellers are strongly advised to be vaccinated as a safety measure to protect themselves and others on the tour. This policy excludes all Polar trips and select adventure cruises, where testing and vaccination are required.
• Also, proof of vaccination may still be required at specific entry points or by the airlines. Therefore, please make sure to check all the travel requirements carefully before travelling.

This trip incorporates the following COVID-19 measures:

• This tour has received the World Travel and Tourism Council’s Safe Travels stamp, which provides travellers with assurance that COVID-19 health and hygiene global standardised protocols have been adopted.
• Hygiene and safety guidelines will be followed to ensure your well being is looked after during travels.

• Physical preparation
• Finish point description
• Finish point instructions
• Money matters
• Climate and seasonal
• Your fellow travellers
• Itinerary disclaimer
• Important information
• A couple of rules
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Vietnam Tours & Holidays

Vietnamese food is where it’s at.

Wherever we travel, it’s the flavours we remember best. A crusty bánh mì or streetside pho, seafood cù lao hotpots and (scarily addictive) coffee with condensed milk. Vietnam tours are tasty, plain and simple. We won’t just drop you in Halong Bay and call it a day. Our local leaders will introduce you to rice farmers in Sapa and fishermen on the Mekong Delta. They’ll guide you through the Cu Chi Tunnels, take you to the best beaches and on a street food crawl through Ho Chi Minh City. Our stomach’s rumbling already... 

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We also travel to

Vietnam at a glance, capital city.

Approximately 98 million

(GMT+07:00) Bangkok, Hanoi, Jakarta

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type C (European 2-pin)

Learn more about Vietnam

History and government, early history.

Vietnam has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Archaeological finds suggest that structured societies existed as early as the 1st millennium BC. Early society was mostly feudal and agriculture-based, with various dynasties overseeing different parts of Vietnam until the Chinese invasion of 111 BC, which saw the societies of Vietnam and China intertwined. Various Chinese dynasties dominated the area for hundreds of years, although revolts finally led to Vietnam gaining self-autonomy in 905. By 938, this period of Chinese imperial domination came to a close and Vietnam entered into an age of independence.

Recent history

During the 19th century, Vietnam came under the influence of French colonisers, who assumed control of Vietnam after the Sino-French War of 1884 and 1885. French Indochina was formed in 1887, and included parts of Vietnam, Cambodia and, later on, Laos. Although the French managed to suppress internal movements towards independence for many years, their control was finally relinquished in 1954 when Vietnamese forces overcame the French during the first Indochina War. Following this war, Vietnam was divided, with separate forces ruling the north (led by Ho Chi Minh) and the south (led by Ngo Dinh Diem, with support from the United States). 

The second Indochina War created wide-scale devastation and turmoil for the people of Vietnam, leading to mass migration to other parts of the world as asylum seekers tried to escape the conflict. More recently, Vietnam has benefited from the free market economy set up in 1986. Vietnam's economy continues to expand, with agriculture and industry providing the backbone and the tourism sector also contributing. Although many Vietnamese people live below the poverty line, there have been widespread improvements in literacy and health, which hopefully will continue to improve in the future.

Geography and environment

Occupying a long, thin part of the Indochinese peninsula, Vietnam shares borders with China , Laos and Cambodia . Much of Vietnam's terrain is mountainous, particularly the north and central highland regions. Although people still choose to live in the densely forested highland regions, most of Vietnam's population is concentrated in the cities of the low-lying areas, where infrastructure is more easily built and the land is fertile. One of the 12 great rivers of the world, the Mekong, runs through Vietnam and has been responsible for wide-scale flooding. A system of canals and levees has been quite successful in redistributing the water during monsoons, and has helped to alleviate flooding in the Mekong Delta and surrounding areas.

Vietnam has a nice mix of interesting markets and small shops, with handicrafts, art and clothing among the best picks.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in Vietnam

1. Tailored clothing

Hoi An is one of the best places in the world to get tailor-made clothing at a great price. Find a tailor, choose your fabric, get measured and return later to collect your custom-made fashion.

2. Hilltribe handicrafts

Some of Vietnam's hilltribe people make excellent woven bags, clothing and jewellery which make meaningful souvenirs for friends back home.

As one of the world's largest coffee exporters, Vietnamese coffee is among the world's best. If you’re a coffee fan, why not take a little taste of Vietnam home with you.

4. Lacquerware

The time-consuming, intensive process of creating Vietnamese lacquer art results in a beautiful, smooth and polished finish that adorns everything from bowls to paintings and jewellery boxes. While not the cheapest of souvenirs, authentic lacquer art is worth spending a bit more on.

Culture and customs

Vietnam's ancient culture can be traced back centuries and over the years has been influenced in different ways by the Chinese, Khmer, French and American cultures. For most Vietnamese people, connection to family and community is paramount - whether they are from rural villages or living in fast-paced cities.

Most festivals and holidays are spent with the extended family - participating in rituals, feasting on special foods, giving symbolic gifts and paying respects to ancestors. Most Vietnamese people practice a form of religion that is an interesting mix of Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism, although there are also a large number of practising Catholics living in Vietnam.

Having endured the hardship that the Vietnam War brought in the 1960s and 1970s, most Vietnamese people are keen to get on with life, living with a sense of optimism and humility.

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Cambodia vs Vietnam

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Top 10 iconic landscapes of Vietnam

1. hạlong bay.

There's nothing quite like Halong Bay first thing in the morning. As the mists clear, hundreds of huge karst towers appear, looming high above the boat. In the soft morning light, it's like waking up in a watercolour painting of a mythical land.

Float along the waters of Halong Bay on our 2 day Junk Cruise.

Jam-packed with imperial sites, Hue is one for the history buffs. Explore the Citadel with its ruined Forbidden Purple City before embracing your inner emperor and taking a dragon boat cruise down the Perfume River.

Walk the historic streets of Hue on our 11 day Explore Vietnam tour.

3. Ho Chi Minh City

Still known as Saigon to most, HCMC is a city on the go. It's fast-paced, exciting and full of amazing sites. Temples and markets collide with churches and skyscrapers for a heady mix of traditional, colonial and modern.

Explore Ho Chi Minh City's jam-packed streets on our 10 day Vietnam Express Southbound tour.

Motorbikes piled high with people, produce and even animals zip through the streets. It's crazy and haphazard and somehow it works. The best way to take it all in is from a rooftop cafe. Order an extra strong coffee and watch the chaos unfold below.

Get lost in the beautiful Hanoi on our 10 day Vietnam Express Northbound tour.

This shoppers' paradise is home to more boot makers, tailors and handicrafts than you could visit in a lifetime. While you wait for your suit to be made, hire a bicycle and explore the Old Town - the streets are blissfully car-free.

Shop 'til you drop on our 8 day Premium Vietnam tour or on our 8 day Treasures of vietnam tour.

Head to the hills and see the colourful villages of Vietnam's minority groups - the Zay, and the Blue and Black H'mong. The area is remote so the best way to experience it is on an overnight trek, spending the night as a guest of a local family.

Escape to the hills on our 5 day Sapa Adventure or on our 11 day Vietnam: Hike, Bike & Kayak tour.

7. Mekong Delta

This massive area of floating markets, emerald rice paddies and lush islands is home to some of the friendliest people on earth. Take a boat trip to one of the sleepy islands to get a front-row view of life on the Delta, and meet the people who call it home.

Adventure through the Mekong Delta on our 2 day Farmstay .

Further reading

Vietnam travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Vietnam?

Most nationalities are required to obtain a tourist visa in advance to travel to Vietnam. When obtaining your visa you should allow 3 weeks for processing with your nearest embassy or consulate. The cost is approximately US$60 to US$100. Please check with your embassy or consulate for further requirements.

Some nationalities are exempt from visas for a stay of a maximum of 15 days, including British, German, French, Spanish and Italian citizens travelling to Vietnam (for all purposes). This exemption is based upon meeting all conditions prescribed by Vietnamese laws. If you are planning on staying in Vietnam for longer than 15 days you will need to obtain a visa extension in advance (please contact your relevant Consulate or Embassy). Please also check the requirements if you plan to re-enter Vietnam.

An e-Visa is available for some nationalities including passport holders from Australia, France, Ireland, Italy, Canada and the United States of America, valid for a single entry of a maximum of 30-day stay in Vietnam.  Learn more about the eVisa on the immigration website .

E-Visas take up to 3 days to be processed. You will need a clear electronic copy of your passport data page and passport photo, and to make a non-refundable payment as outlined on the immigration website. Important information Keep the customs and immigration form you receive on arrival, as you need it to complete exit formalities on departure.

If you're travelling with us and your visa application asks for a point of contact, please write: Intrepid Vietnam 5th floor HiPT Building, 152 Thuy Khue Street, Thuy Khue, Tay Ho, Hanoi, Ph +84 4 3715 0996.

Most nationalities do not require a letter of invitation for Vietnam but if you do need one, please contact your sales agent for more information.

The page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain the relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates.

Last updated: 31 July 2023

Is tipping customary in Vietnam?

Tipping isn't mandatory or customary in Vietnam, but a tip of spare change or another small amount would be appreciated by restaurants, drivers and other service workers, especially if the service has been particularly good .

What is the internet access like in Vietnam?

Internet access is widely available in tourist areas and big cities, which have many internet cafes. Internet access is less frequent in rural and remote areas.

Can I use my mobile phone while in Vietnam?

You'll be able to use your mobile phone in most urban areas of Vietnam, although remote and mountainous areas may not have network coverage. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your mobile carrier before you leave home if you wish to use your mobile while in Vietnam.

What are the toilets like in Vietnam?

You'll have to adjust to different standards of hygiene and sanitation while holidaying in Vietnam. The standard toilet is of the squat variety and this may take some getting used to, although western-style toilets can be found in large hotels and some tourist areas.

What will it cost for a…?

The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong. Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

• Quick city bus ride = 5,000 VND-9,000VND
• Local-style coffee at a cafe = 20,000-30,000 VND
• Bowl of pho from street stall = 20,000-70,000 VND
• Dinner at a simple restaurant = 100,000-250,000 VND
• Dinner at an up-market restaurant = 300,000+ VND

Can I drink the tap water in Vietnam?

It is generally not safe to drink the tap water in Vietnam. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found; some hotels we stay in may have drinking water available. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Vietnam?

Major credit cards are widely accepted by large shops, hotels and restaurants in Vietnam. However, they may not be accepted by smaller vendors such as small family restaurants, market stalls or in remote towns and rural areas. Make sure you carry enough cash for purchases, since credit cards aren't always an option everywhere in Vietnam.

What is ATM access like in Vietnam?

ATMs are found widely throughout Vietnam, so withdrawing cash shouldn't be problematic in most areas. Some smaller villages and rural areas may not have ATM access, so prepare for this before venturing too far from a city or major town.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Vietnam?

Public holidays celebrated in Vietnam include:

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day
• 21 Jan: Tết (Vietnamese New Year)
• 21 Apr: Gio to Hung Vuong Day
• 30 Apr: Reunification Day
• 1 May: Labour Day
• 2 Sep: National Day

Please note,  Vietnam public holidays may vary.

What festivals are celebrated in Vietnam?

The major festivals celebrated in Vietnam are Tết (Vietnamese Lunar New Year, February), Reunification Day (30 April), National Day (2 September) and Tet Trung Thu (Mid-Autumn Festival, late September).

When is the best time to visit Vietnam?

The most popular times to visit Vietnam are spring (February-April) and autumn (September-December) but because of the huge variations in latitude and altitude, there is no one best time to go to Vietnam. It’s a good destination all year.

What's the weather like in Vietnam?

Vietnam has an incredibly diverse tropical climate, and temperatures vary from 4°C in Sapa in winter to humid 36°C days in Saigon in the middle of the dry season. The monsoons bring heavy rain to the south, and a cooler winter to the north depending on when you plan to tour Vietnam.

What are the best things to eat in Vietnam?

Traditional Vietnamese food is typified by its use of fresh herbs and vegetables and its wide regional variance. Vietnamese food is influenced by its Chinese and Khmer neighbours and echoes French colonisation. Some of the best things to eat in Vietnam are noodle soups (pho, bun mam, bun bo hue), bread rolls (banh mi), savoury pancakes (banh xeo) and fresh tropical fruits. 

What are the best things to drink in Vietnam?

Our list of best things to drink in Vietnam includes ice coffee, fruit smoothies, fresh coconut juice straight from a freshly cracked green coconut, sugar cane juice, local beers and artisan rice wine.

What to wear in Vietnam?

While the tropical climate lends itself to layered, breathable clothing all year round, if you are taking a tour in the North, cold winters mean you might need to bring a fleece or jacket.

What kinds of accommodation will I have in Vietnam?

Travelling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavour to provide travellers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.  When travelling with us in Vietnam you may find yourself staying in a:

• Overnight boat

Sleeping aboard a boat on Halong Bay is a quintessential Vietnamese experience to be savoured. Slip into relaxation mode as you take in stunning views of the surrounding limestone karst scenery.

Get acquainted with the Vietnamese way of life while on a memorable home stay. Be exposed to new languages, cuisine and customs while making friends with your hosts and neighbours.

What kinds of transport will I be using in Vietnam?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun. Depending on which trip you're on while in Vietnam, you may find yourself travelling by:

• Overnight sleeper train

Travelling aboard an overnight sleeper train is a fun way to journey through Vietnam. Interact with other passengers or sit by a window and watch the world go by.

Curious? Click here read more about what to expect on an overnight train.

Take time to wave to locals as you cycle at a leisurely pace past rice paddies and through simple villages in rural Vietnam

These 3 wheeled vehicles are a great way to zip around the sights.

Is Vietnam a LGBTQIA+ friendly destination?

The LGBQTIA+ community is gradually gaining recognition in Vietnam, with gay pride parades becoming a regular occurrence and a lift on same-sex marriage bans in 2015. With that said, Vietnam is still a conservative culture and many still hide their sexuality from their families. Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi have some gay-friendly bars and events. It's generally recommended that both gay and straight couples resist showing public displays of affection.  

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

Does my trip to Vietnam support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveller. Trips to Vietnam directly support our foundation partners, Blue Dragon Children's Foundation, Vun Art and WildAct .

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Blue Dragon Children's Foundation Blue Dragon Children's Foundation is helping disadvantaged youth in Vietnam, fighting the causes of human trafficking and (where possible) reuniting homeless or trafficked children with their families. Donations from our trips help their team of social workers, psychologists, teachers, and lawyers to offer individualised support to every child rescued. 

Find out more or make a donation

Vun Art Vun Art empowers people with disabilities in Vietnam through vocational training and employment opportunities. They teach traditional folk painting using recycled materials which provides job opportunities, helps to preserve the ancient artform and cares for the local environment all at once. Donations from our trips support Vun Art's capacity-building programs for people with disabilities, including trainees' allowance, transportation, and equipment.  

WildAct protects migratory birds of Vietnam and reduces illegal hunting by educating local communities about the importance of conservation. Donations from our trips help WildAct run educational programs to stop the illegal hunting of threatened migratory birds through knowledge-sharing in local communities.  

Is Vietnam accessible for travellers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible , regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Despite having a high population of people with disabilities, accessible infrastructure and facilities are still limited in Vietnam. Chaotic traffic and pavements blocked by parked motorbikes and street stalls, uneven footpaths and high curbs add to the challenges of getting around for travellers with mobility or vision disabilities. Most entrances to hotels, shops, restaurants and tourist sites will have steps and many doorways will not be able to accommodate wheelchairs wider than 60cm. Some sights and destinations will not be fully accessible (ie. Ha Long Bay boats, Cu Chi Tunnels) but other places such as Hoi An are flat and much more wheelchair-friendly. There are likely to be situations where travellers with disabilities may need to rely on local people to help. Taxis are readily available and an affordable way to get around for travellers who are not confident in exploring independently on foot.

How do I stay safe and healthy while travelling?

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

What is it like travelling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or you’re about to embark on your first trip, travelling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organising amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), travelling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Deals of the Week   Mad for the Med   Up to 50% OFF

Vietnam Express Northbound

• Fully Guided
• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Places You’ll See

• Beatiful and historic Ho Chi Minh City
• A motor bike ride to the Forbidden Purple City
• Picturesque fishing village of Lang Co
• Marvelous lakes and architecture in Hanoi
• Introduction
• Day 1 Ho Chi Minh City
• Day 2 Mekong Delta - Ho Chi Minh City
• Day 3 Hoi An
• Day 4 Hoi An
• Day 6 Hue - Overnight Train
• Day 7 Hanoi
• Day 8 Halong Bay
• Day 9 Hanoi
• Day 10 Hanoi

Want to read it later?

Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline

What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Customer photos.

Operated by Intrepid Travel

Back in 1989, two guys from Melbourne, Australia by the names of Darrell and Manch set off on an adventure to the other side of the world. They travelled to Africa and without air conditioning on their modified truck, they filled it with supplies, some beer, a bunch of aviator sunglasses, and some friends. On that trip, they came up with the idea that perhaps others may be interested in this style of travel too. Just like that, Intrepid was born. Intrepid has come a long way since then, now giving over 100,000 travelers a year the opportunity to experience small group travel across all 7 continents. They use local transport, sleep in local accommodation from Cambodian stilt houses to Moroccan riads, and employ 100% local leaders. With three different travel styles including basix, original and comfort, themes ranging from cycling trips to family holidays, and itineraries crafted with the perfect balance of must-see sights and free time, Intrepid caters to every type of traveller no matter their age, budget or travel style. The company has grown but their mission remains the same: to change the way people see the world through sustainable, experience-rich travel

Sustainability Initiatives

Reduce Carbon Emissions

Animal Welfare

Supporting Destinations

Sustainability Programs

Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 4.5
• Itinerary Excellent 4.4
• Guide Excellent 4.8
• Transport Excellent 4.5
• Accommodation Excellent 4.3
• Food Excellent 4.7
• Tour Operator Intrepid Travel 4.6
• Most Recent
• Most Popular
• Highest First
• Lowest First

• KG Katie · 7th December 2019 I was disappointed at the lack of options for daily excursions and would have preferred a more detailed itinerary and information regarding the included excursions. Overall, the guide was very helpful in helping us plan our own excursions and trying to... Show more Trip date: November 2019

• A Peter K · 18th September 2019 Ha and Yuth were great guides with knowledge and excellent skills to manage group trips. Also the choice of places is the essential of both countries. Also, Loch Sokneang, the local guide in Phnom Penh was very knowledgeable and managed the topic of... Show more Trip date: December 2018 Review collected by Intrepid Travel
• A Laura J · 18th September 2019 Saw a huge amount of Vietnam in a short space of time that I probably couldn't do by myself Ha was an excellent tour guide--really welcoming and organised Trip date: December 2018 Review collected by Intrepid Travel

Dates & Availability

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• January 2025
• February 2025
• August 2025
• September 2025
• October 2025
• November 2025
• December 2025

Space on this tour is not guaranteed. Book this tour to request your place and the operator will confirm availability.

• Sunday 21 Apr, 2024 Tuesday 30 Apr, 2024 English Sold Out €1,200 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Tuesday 23 Apr, 2024 Thursday 2 May, 2024 English Sold Out €1,200 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• 2 Other Unavailable Departures
• -15% Get Instant Confirmation Thursday 25 Apr, 2024 Saturday 4 May, 2024 English Filling Fast €1,200 €1,020 Confirm Dates
• -15% Get Instant Confirmation Tuesday 30 Apr, 2024 Thursday 9 May, 2024 English Almost Sold Out €1,155 €982 Confirm Dates

Frequently Asked Questions

All accommodations are subject to change until 4-6 weeks before the departure date. After the booking is made you will be issued your final trip documents with your specific accommodation details 4-6 weeks before departure. Under the "What’s Included" tab on each tour page, you can find general info about the accommodations used on the tour before you book.

We specialise in giving you the best tours from around the world, however the tours we offer do not include airfare and we do not book or advise on airfare. You will be responsible for booking your flights to meet with the group at the starting city. We do not recommend booking airfare before confirming your tour.

Got a question about this tour?

Reach out to our travel experts.

Good to Know

• Currency ₫ Dong Vietnam

As a traveller from USA, Canada you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, G. As a traveller from England you will need an adaptor for types A, B, C, E, F. As a traveller from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types A, B, C, E, F, G.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Typhoid - Recommended for Vietnam. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis A - Recommended for Vietnam. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Cholera - Recommended for Vietnam. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Tuberculosis - Recommended for Vietnam. Ideally 3 months before travel.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for Vietnam. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Rabies - Recommended for Vietnam. Ideally 1 month before travel.
• Yellow fever - Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an area with a risk of yellow fever transmission for Vietnam. Ideally 10 days before travel.
• Japanese B encephalitis - Recommended for Vietnam. Ideally 1 month before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 30th May 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 30th May 2024, a minimum payment of €400 is required to confirm your booking with Intrepid Travel. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 60 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Intrepid Travel will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "Intrepid Travel" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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Keep Exploring Vietnam

• Vietnam Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• 10 Best Adventure Tour and Travel Companies
• 10 Best Budget Adventure Tours 2024/2025
• Vietnam from Ho Chi Minh City
• Vietnam Active
• Small group tour
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Tour Review: Intrepid Travel Vietnam Express Southbound

Traveling in Vietnam with Intrepid Travel on their Vietnam Express Southbound 10-day tour is everything that’s terrific and transformative about travel.

This was my 2nd Intrepid tour, completely different from the incredible  Okavango Experience , but just as unforgettable, educational, gratifying, and culturally immersive in a way that is unique to Vietnam and the travelers and guide I was lucky enough to explore and experience with.

In this guide, I’ll not only share my complete review of my time with Intrepid Travel in Vietnam, but I’ll also do my best to explain the intangibles about why small group travel with Intrepid is so special.

Spoiler Alert! If you’re considering the  Intrepid Travel Vietnam Express Southbound  tour, don’t hesitate. Book it and go with an open heart and curious mind for a not-to-be-forgotten trip!

This 10-day Vietnam Express Southbound tour starts in the north, in Vietnam’s capital city of Hanoi, and ends in Ho Chi Minh City in the south. 

In between, the tour itinerary takes you to popular spots in Vietnam including Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, and the Mekong Delta. And, in a way that’s unique to Intrepid, you not only see those must-see sights but also learn about the country’s history, culture, and experience local daily life.

It’s that last part about the local culture, daily life, and the people you meet along the way that’ll flash through your mind long after your trip to Vietnam is done.

What Happens While Traveling in Vietnam with Intrepid

It would be easy to share a list of all the popular sights and activities you’ll see and do while in Vietnam with Intrepid. But I’d be leaving out so many moments that make this trip so much more than just another Vietnam sightseeing trip!

When you travel with Intrepid, you get to mix must-see sights, off-the-beaten-path stops, and interactions with locals you wouldn’t be able to have otherwise had you traveled independently.

Intrepid’s Vietnam Express Southbound Itinerary

No doubt if you’re considering this tour, you’ve read through the day-by-day itinerary on Intrepid’s website. I’ve put together this video to show how memorable just these highlights are all by themselves.

But, there are so many other unforgettable moments you don’t see in the trip outline. These moments are unique to your group and your guide but give a glimpse of how amazing it is to travel with a company like Intrepid that wholeheartedly believes in the powerful impact of authentic local experiences. What You Don’t See

I purposefully didn’t include activities I did outside of the tour. However, if you look at the Intrepid itinerary, you’ll notice the first day doesn’t start until 6 pm and the last day is open for the group to do independent activities or depart as warranted by their travel plans.

I took these opportunities to see more of Vietnam. Before the 6 pm meeting on Day 1, I joined the Urban Adventures Hanoi Morning Highlights Tour and then used the afternoon to wander independently and visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex and Stilt House. It was great to have this time to do some sightseeing in Hanoi.

On the last day, I went with Urban Adventures to tour the Cu Chi Tunnels just outside Ho Chi Minh City…an absolute must! The tunnels and how they were built and used are utterly fascinating. Back in the city just after midday, I independently visited Independence Palace and did some more shopping at the Ben Thanh Market.

Practical Details

If you’ve never traveled with a tour before or with Intrepid, you’re probably wondering about some of the logistics, as well as who you’ll be traveling with.

Before You Go:

Intrepid requires travel insurance for all travelers no matter which tour it is.  World Nomads  provides travel insurance for all types of trips, travelers, and budgets.

Vietnam requires U.S. residents to get a Visa to enter the country. Luckily, it’s an easy process that can be done online. You can apply for one at the  Vietnam e-Visa web portal . You have to upload a photo of yourself and pay $25. After that, it takes about 3 business days to get your e-Visa. It’s valid for a single entry 30-day Vietnam Visa.

Southeast Asia has a hot, humid climate. And, countries like Vietnam also dress conservatively. This combination means you want lightweight, loose-fitting clothing with enough skin coverage. Moisture-wicking fabric is also great for travel because when you want to wash it out, it dries quickly.

Specifically for this Intrepid Vietnam tour, pack a  sleep sheet  (or an old sheet you can use and leave behind to lighten your bag) and this  compressible pillow  for the train from Hanoi to Hue like I did. I slept comfortably on a clean sheet! And, what I love about that pillow is it packs down small but expands to be nearly the size of a regular pillow. (I took it on my other incredible Intrepid trip to camp in the  Okavango Delta , too!)

On the Trip:

Who is the guide.

Intrepid hires and works with guides who are locals that live in and are experts on the places visited on the tour itinerary. By doing so, it’s a win-win for you, the traveler, and the local community.

First, some of the money you pay for the tour pays these guides. Enough said, right? No matter where we are from, we all know how empowering and impactful a job is for the individual, their families, and communities.

Along with this, you, the traveler, get a guide with first-hand cultural and location-based knowledge who inevitably opens doors for an immersive, authentic look at daily life.

Nam was the guide for our group and not only could he talk about the history of a specific temple or make sure the group allowed enough time to get from one place to another, but he also recommended local places to eat, showed us how to smoke that bamboo tube pipe you see people passing in Hanoi, and stopped in the countryside at a burial site to explain more about the rituals and beliefs Vietnamese have about death and their ancestors.

Who travels with Intrepid?

From 20s-70s, hailing from all over the world, Intrepid travelers are adventurous travel-lovers who welcome authentic experiences no matter where they are.

Both of my Intrepid groups have been a perfect blend of exactly that combination. There have been Americans, Aussies, Europeans, and Canadians traveling solo, as a couple, with friends, or as a family whether for a first-time out-of-college travel experience or celebrating a 30-year wedding anniversary.

The best part is they’re all travel lovers who are ready to explore! And, if you’re lucky like I’ve been, you’ll come away with travel memories and lasting friendships.

What are the accommodations like?

Intrepid has different types of tours, Basix, Original, and Comfort. This Vietnam Express Southbound tour is Original. Hotels are typically comfortable 3-star hotels for this type of tour.

All the hotels from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh were modern with relatively spacious rooms located conveniently in each city so we could walk to restaurants, shops, markets, and popular sights. Not all Intrepid tours stay at the same hotels but for reference, this is  the hotel  our group stayed at in Hue.

The one exception was in Hoi An, where the hotel was a 10-minute walk outside the old town and more of a 2-star hotel compared to the others where we stayed.

This  Vietnam Express Southbound tour  has 2 nights not spent in hotels, too.

In Ha Long Bay, we slept on our own junk boat. Each of us had our own cabins with ensuite bathrooms, fans, and air conditioning. Since I was traveling on my own, I had a cabin with 2 twin beds. On the main deck, there was an enclosed dining room, with outdoor deck seating at both ends of the boat.

We also took an overnight train from Hanoi to Hue. Intrepid books “First Class” cabins but it’s important to understand trains in Vietnam are not like the sleeper trains you might find in Europe, for example. We had private cabins for only our group but each cabin has 2 sets of bunks, sleeping 4 people in each. I shared with 3 other girls in the group and slept comfortably. The bathroom is shared among the car occupants.

I did bring my own sleeping sheet and used my travel pillow and  recommend you do the same . I loved waking up early to watch the Vietnamese countryside fly by from my window.

How does the group travel?

For the majority of the time, you’ll travel by private, air-conditioned van arranged by Intrepid. We did also take the boat out for the day and night onto Ha Long Bay, the train to Hue, and a short flight to get from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh. We flew on SkyTeam Alliance member, Vietnam Airlines.

What happens for meals?

Expect some of the best food ever! Not just with the included meals, but also because you have a local guide at your disposal who can recommend the best places to eat depending on what you want or need to meet any dietary restrictions. I’m a vegetarian and never lacked for anything delicious to eat.

Breakfasts are included in the tour, and typically part of the hotel breakfasts which offered complete western and Vietnamese breakfast foods. A few lunches and dinners throughout the 10 days are part of the tour, as well.

On the first night in Hanoi, our group had a delicious first meal together at KOTO, a restaurant partnered with the Intrepid Foundation. (If you didn’t know, Intrepid is a B Corp, which means they’ve committed to be a force for good and to put purpose before profit.) KOTO is a program that trains disadvantaged kids in hospitality and culinary skills.

Lunch and dinner were included on the Ha Long Bay cruise. We had a feast of local specialties that were prepared onboard with more than enough to satisfy our whole group. I’m a vegetarian and the group also had a few picky eaters, as well as someone who needed gluten-free meals. All of us were accommodated.

We had an incredible (all vegetarian!) lunch at a Buddhist monastery. I wish I could go back and get more cooked banyan fruit! 

The tour also included another feast lunch at a house restaurant in the Mekong Delta. 

Should You Book the Vietnam Express Southbound Tour with Intrepid? 

If you’ve read and watched this far,  Intrepid’s Vietnam Express Southbound tour  is calling your name!

This tour is right for you if you want to spend time sightseeing in Vietnam, but you also have a genuine curiosity about the Vietnamese people, culture, and daily life.

You’ll absolutely love this tour if you want a mix of group time, where the logistics are taken care of, and free time, when you can explore or relax as you want.

And you’ll definitely want to join in if you enjoy meeting other travel-lovers from around the world who are just as game as you to experience new things, taste new foods, and let the transformative power of travel expand their minds and hearts.

What questions do you have about traveling on the Vietnam Express Southbound tour with Intrepid?

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Disclosure: I was a guest of Intrepid Travel all opinions are my own…Easy to do when Intrepid makes travel so unforgettable!

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2 thoughts on “tour review: intrepid travel vietnam express southbound”.

Loved reading this review. Answered every single question I had. Thank you 🙂

Thanks so much for reading, Barbara. I’m glad the review was helpful!

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