The real Vietnam, beyond the obvious.
Pu Luong & Phong Nha
Ha Long Bay cruise
This is the itinerary we’ve poured our hearts into. Every destination on this journey has been carefully chosen because we genuinely believe it tells part of Vietnam’s story.
It’s easy to visit Vietnam and tick off the famous sights. But if you only follow the typical tourist route, you’ll only scratch the surface of what this remarkable country has to offer. Our Authentic Vietnam journey goes deeper. You’ll cruise through the breathtaking beauty of Ha Long Bay, wander the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An and explore the Imperial City of Hue — but you’ll also stay in hidden gems like Pu Luong and Phong Nha, walk through rice terraces, share meals with local families and experience the traditions, landscapes and communities that make Vietnam so special.
We truly believe this journey offers one of the most complete and authentic ways to experience Vietnam. It isn’t about rushing from one attraction to the next — it’s about understanding the country, its history, its people and its culture. We’ve travelled thousands of kilometres across Vietnam to create an itinerary that goes beyond the obvious. If you want to truly know Vietnam, this is the journey we’d choose every single time.
Highlights
- Hanoi
- Ha Long Bay overnight cruise
- Pu Luong Nature Reserve
- Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park
- Vinh Moc Tunnels & the DMZ
- Hue & the Imperial City
- Hai Van Pass
- Hoi An Ancient Town
Fourteen days, north to central Vietnam.
Arrival in Hanoi
Arrive in Hanoi and gather for a welcome dinner and your first taste of Vietnamese cuisine. (Dinner)
Hanoi like a local
Explore the city’s landmarks by vintage Army Jeep, then step into its famous coffee culture. (Breakfast, lunch)
Ha Long Bay
Board an overnight cruise through the UNESCO-listed waters of Ha Long Bay, kayaking, swimming and watching the sunset from deck. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Ha Long Bay to Pu Luong
Wake in Ha Long Bay before travelling to the hidden rice terraces and villages of Pu Luong Nature Reserve. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Life in Pu Luong
Slow down with a walk through rice terraces and a home-cooked family lunch in this untouched corner of the north. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Journey to Phong Nha
Travel to Phong Nha, home to some of Earth’s largest caves, and check in to the legendary Farmstay. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
The incredible Phong Nha
Explore the UNESCO caves of Phong Nha–Ke Bang, ending with a light-hearted visit to the famous Duck Stop. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Paradise & Commander Cave
Discover the wartime Commander Cave and the breathtaking 31-km Paradise Cave. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Wartime history
Travel south via the moving Vinh Moc Tunnels and the former DMZ, arriving in imperial Hue. (Breakfast, lunch)
The Imperial City of Hue
Explore Hue’s Imperial Citadel and ancient temples, and taste its celebrated royal cuisine. (Breakfast)
Over the Hai Van Pass
Cross the spectacular Hai Van Pass and Da Nang’s Lady Buddha en route to UNESCO-listed Hoi An. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Lose yourself in Hoi An
Enjoy a free day to explore, relax or have clothing tailor-made. (Breakfast)
Cook, taste & celebrate
Visit the market, join a cooking class and basket-boat ride, and celebrate with a farewell dinner. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Until next time
Enjoy a final breakfast before your transfer to the airport and the journey home. (Breakfast)
Everything you need. Nothing you don’t.
Included
- Meet and greet on arrival
- A South African guide fluent in Afrikaans, Vietnamese and English
- All meals as indicated
- All accommodation
- All transport to and from airports, scheduled activities and accommodation
- All scheduled activities and sightseeing entrance fees as per the itinerary
Not included
- All international flights
- Optional extras such as spa treatments or additional activities
- Transport not part of the tour schedule, for personal use
- Visas
- Drinks
- Telephone, laundry and items of a personal nature
- Comprehensive travel insurance
One scheduled 2027 departure.
Currency used is Vietnamese Dong (VND). Per person sharing 83 000 000 VND (± R51 500); per person single 108 000 000 VND (± R67 000). Use a currency converter for an approximate figure in your local currency, noting that the final cost is determined by the exchange rate at the time of confirmation and payment. Flights excluded; international flights from South Africa are estimated between R18 000 – R24 000, depending on your route and airline.