16-Day Best of Vietnam | with Ha Giang Loop | 2027/2028
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Child age: 0-12
Highlights
Vietnam’s icons are only the beginning on this 16-day trip, taking you through Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Hanoi, Halong Bay and the Ha Giang Loop by van. Cook your way through local flavours, float through the Mekong by traditional boat, explore the Củ Chi Tunnels and spend a night on a junk boat. Then head north for the Nho Que River, mountain passes and Ha Giang views that take the classic Vietnam route well beyond the usual.
Dates & Prices
Price in USD (per person, based on double occupancy)
Limited Offer
3% Group Discount: 1. Receive 3% off when you purchase 3+ rooms on the same tour (single order only). 2. Receive 3% off when you book 3+ multi-day tours with minimum order total of $500 at once. Not valid in conjunction with any other discounts or pricing offers.
Itinerary
Welcome to Ho Chi Minh city, formerly known as Saigon. This is one of Asia's most exhilarating cities, steeped in grand history and post-Vietnam war memories. You'll meet your travel comrades and after our kickstart meeting, have a free evening to explore. Oh yes, this is the right way to get your Vietnam trip started.
Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
Ho Chi Minh City, also known by its former name of Saigon, is the most populous city in Vietnam. It is the most visited city in Vietnam, with around 6.3 million visitors in 2017.
Today we leave Ho Chi Minh City, exchanging fast paced city life for an energy that's a little more quaint. Such is the contrasting beauty of Vietnam. After a 3.5-hour coach ride out of the city, we’ll hop aboard a traditional boat to explore the river’s ever-changing edges. Think floating life, lush scenery and a slower pace. We’ll stop by a rice paper factory, sample Vietnam’s famous rice whisky, then settle in with a home-cooked meal and live local music. Tonight, it’s all about the experience as we stay in a local homestay.
Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
Ho Chi Minh City, also known by its former name of Saigon, is the most populous city in Vietnam. It is the most visited city in Vietnam, with around 6.3 million visitors in 2017.
After an early breakfast we'll make our way back to Ho Chi Minh City, detouring past Viet Cong’s Cu Chi Tunnels. See traps, hidden doors & some of the 250kms of tunnels that Vietnamese resistance fighters dug by hand, and even go down into the skinny tunnels to experience them first hand in this look into Vietnam's staggering past. Back in the addictive mayhem of Vietnam's biggest city you will have free time to carry on your explorations. Best part? There'll be a few more Contiki travellers joining us this evening. Continuing to eat your way through Vietnam's culinary highlights would be one wise way to use your time (we think).
Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
Ho Chi Minh City, also known by its former name of Saigon, is the most populous city in Vietnam. It is the most visited city in Vietnam, with around 6.3 million visitors in 2017.
Kick off the morning with breakfast at the hotel, then dive into the buzz of Ho Chi Minh City on a sightseeing tour. We’ll stop by the War Remnants Museum for a powerful look at Vietnam’s past. Then we’ll head to the airport and fly to Da Nang. Time to trade the city rush for coastal cool and roll straight into a fresh new vibe. New stop, new energy, let’s go.
Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
Ho Chi Minh City, also known by its former name of Saigon, is the most populous city in Vietnam. It is the most visited city in Vietnam, with around 6.3 million visitors in 2017.
Da Nang's all yours to discover however you like this morning. Then we'll make the short drive over to our next spot - Hoi An. With Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese and European influences, Hoi An has no shortage of charm and architectural interest. Bike riding through the vibrant town, visiting an ancient house & ordering custom-made clothes at an artful tailor are just some of the activities that will colour our day. Tonight you can opt into a Vietnamese cooking class, whipping up a storm of up to 4 traditional dishes.
Da Nang, Viet Nam
Hoi An, Viet Nam
This historic coastal city in central Vietnam was an important seaport from the 15th to 19th centuries. There are many museums around the city that detail its role in Vietnamese history and culture.
Morning travellers! The day is all yours. Poke around in galleries & market stalls (the best shopping spots in Vietnam in our opinion) and devour all of the delectable treats on offer. And for a dose of culture, you could ride on one of Vietnam’s very own Bamboo Basket Boats (Yes, the ones that you’ve probably seen on Instagram). And to top it all off, we’ll grab some fresh coconut water straight from the tree to your tummy.
Hoi An, Viet Nam
This historic coastal city in central Vietnam was an important seaport from the 15th to 19th centuries. There are many museums around the city that detail its role in Vietnamese history and culture.
Leaving Hoi An will be sad. But we’re heading to Hanoi, so there’s hardly an excuse to not be excited. We’ll grab a quick breakfast and head to Da Nang airport… Fasten your seatbelts, folks. We’ll catch our internal flight to Hanoi from this quaint coastal town. Welcome to the city where all the bustling magic happens. We’ll head straight to KOTO for a feel-good feast that supports disadvantaged youth in Vietnam, then jump into culture mode at the Temple of Literature (Vietnam’s first-ever university). Next up: the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a major landmark with big history behind it. Tonight’s yours to do Hanoi your way.
Hoi An, Viet Nam
This historic coastal city in central Vietnam was an important seaport from the 15th to 19th centuries. There are many museums around the city that detail its role in Vietnamese history and culture.
Da Nang, Viet Nam
You’ve got a full day to spend however you like in the buzzing city of Hanoi. Go cafe hopping and put Vietnam’s coffee game to the test — egg, coconut, salt, the lot — stroll around Hoàn Kiếm Lake, or check out the chaos and charm of Train Street. And if you’re keen to see the city after dark from the back of a bike, sign up for tonight’s optional tour.
Hanoi, Viet Nam
Hanoi is Vietnam's capital and second largest city by population. The city mostly lies on the right bank of the Red River. Hanoi is about 1,720 km (1,070 mi) north of Ho Chi Minh City and 105 km (65 mi) west of Haiphong.
Next up, we’re heading to the epicentre of Vietnam's show-stopping natural beauty. Do you see them? Those lush landscapes are calling. This afternoon, you can jump on an optional Bike & Boat adventure out in Van Long, cycling through local villages before cruising the rivers by sampan through “Ha Long Bay on land” scenery. Prefer to keep it chill? The rest of the day is yours to breathe in the fresh air, soak up the greenery, and keep your eyes peeled for birds along the way.
Ninh Binh, Viet Nam
A small city in the Red River Delta of northern Vietnam; it is the capital of Ninh Bình Province.
Up and about at the crack of dawn today! We’re climbing up 500 steps to the top of the Mua Cave. (You certainly don’t wanna forget your camera for this one). A drive through stunning scenery will evoke plenty of 'oh wow's', but it only gets better as we board our home for the night, a Chinese-style junk boat in Halong Bay. Feel the serenity kicking in immediately as we drift around the limestone island seas of the Gulf of Tonkin. We’ll pass hidden lagoons, thick forests & dreamy grottos and also chill atop the Ti Top Island. A fresh seafood dinner and sunset at our docking spot will polish off a wonderful day packed with unforgettable moments and experiences.
Ninh Binh, Viet Nam
A small city in the Red River Delta of northern Vietnam; it is the capital of Ninh Bình Province.
Halong Bay
Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam, is famed for its thousands of limestone karst islands and islets rising from emerald waters.
Ease into the day with a light breakfast before heading out to explore the impressive Sung Sot Caves. Then it’s back on board to make the most of your final moments cruising through Halong Bay — relax, take it all in, and enjoy an early lunch with the crew. After soaking up those last limestone views, we’ll disembark and make our way back to Hanoi by road.Back in the city, the night’s yours. Keen to keep the good times going? You’ll have the chance to join the group for dinner before heading out to Ta Hien. It’s also the final night of the trip for some of the crew, so expect a few farewell vibes mixed in with the fun.
Halong Bay
Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam, is famed for its thousands of limestone karst islands and islets rising from emerald waters.
Hanoi, Viet Nam
Hanoi is Vietnam's capital and second largest city by population. The city mostly lies on the right bank of the Red River. Hanoi is about 1,720 km (1,070 mi) north of Ho Chi Minh City and 105 km (65 mi) west of Haiphong.
Wakey wakey! Today’s a free day to explore Hanoi your way before we hop on the overnight bus. It’s also a good time to grab anything you might need for the next leg - Ha Giang is more remote, so stock up while you can.Look at you, travelling like a local! Tuck into your beds for the night, tomorrow's lined up with even more epic adventures.
Hanoi, Viet Nam
Hanoi is Vietnam's capital and second largest city by population. The city mostly lies on the right bank of the Red River. Hanoi is about 1,720 km (1,070 mi) north of Ho Chi Minh City and 105 km (65 mi) west of Haiphong.
Overnight Bus, Viet Nam
Morning! We'll set off on foot from the bus station to our local homestay. The sun's yet to rise, so you've some time to catch some more sleep and grab breakfast too. This morning, we’ll hop into our van and hit the road en route to Dong Van. This world-famous route is packed with incredible views. On our drive, you’ll see the Heaven Gate, Twin Mountain, Tham Ma slope and even visit an ancient palace - all while being surrounded by lush green valleys all the way through. Plus, we'll make a quick stop to meet the people working to preserve the craft of H'mong linen weaving. It’s been a looong day! What better way to end it than by devouring delicious local food with your crew. Then, it’s off to your cosy, cosy beds for the night.
Overnight Bus, Viet Nam
Ha Giang Loop, Viet Nam
Dong Van, Viet Nam
Rise and shine! After breakfast, you’ll join a local guide for an exhilarating trek to the Ma Pi Leng peak. It’s trek time! Today, we’ll hike along the Sky Path, enjoying views of the cascading limestone cliffs, Hmong villages and cornfields along the way. And after a delicious lunch, we’ll take a boat cruise to our campsite. But not before checking out the magnificent Tu San Canyon, ofc. Riverside camping anyone? We’ll check into our overnight tents (that open up to breathtaking views of the Nho Que river). Enjoy dinner and music with your crew before resting your trek-tired limbs for the day.
Dong Van, Viet Nam
Ma Pi Leng Peak, Viet Nam
Nho Que, Viet Nam
It’s not every day that you get to kayak along a beautiful turquoise river. But that's exactly what you'll do this morning. Next, we'll head back to the accommodation, grab breakfast and jump on a boat back to the harbour. What’s next? We’ll grab lunch at a local spot, then meet a local H’mong man who’ll charm you with the sweet sounds of the traditional Qeej flute. Keep your camera at the ready because we'll drive along many, many amazing viewpoints. Then, it's time to wrap up the day with a dinner to remember, packed with local flavours and good vibes. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug from the heart of the destination.
Nho Que, Viet Nam
Morning, sleepyheads! Today we’re chasing a gorgeous little waterfall before packing up and hitting the road. Expect epic views as we wind through terraced rice paddies and dramatic limestone karsts (cameras at the ready!). After a local lunch, we’ll roll into Ha Giang and keep the adventure going.And just like that, it’s time for the final leg of the journey. So, get comfy in your reclining seats as we head back to where it all began. After an incredible trip, it’s time to say goodbye when our trip ends at 11pm. Don’t forget to exchange socials with your crew! We just have a hunch that you'll be planning your next trip soon…
Du Già, Viet Nam
Ha Giang Loop, Viet Nam
Hanoi, Viet Nam
Hanoi is Vietnam's capital and second largest city by population. The city mostly lies on the right bank of the Red River. Hanoi is about 1,720 km (1,070 mi) north of Ho Chi Minh City and 105 km (65 mi) west of Haiphong.
Includes & Excludes
Price Includes
Additional Notes
- START/END TIMES: Trip starts in Ho Chi Minh City at 6:00pm and ends in Hanoi at 11:00pm. We do not recommend booking flights to depart on the last day of the trip.
- ARRIVAL TRANSFERS: Chargeable arrival transfers are available for flights into Ho Chi Minh City (SGN Airport only) and can be booked on a single or twin basis. No twin share transfers are available. If travellers book pre-trip accommodation elsewhere (Non Contiki property), they can still book a transfer. However, transfers operate only between the airport and the Contiki start hotel, so guests will need to make their own way from Contiki start hotel to their independently pre-booked hotel. Flight information is required in order to book transfers.
- DEPARTURE TRANSFERS: Not available.
- VIETNAM: USA passport holders require a visa for Vietnam. Visa must be obtained prior to departure. We recommend applying approx. 60 days prior to departure.
- IMPORTANT: Please see important visa details sent with your invoice.
- ENTRY INTO VIETNAM: Guests arriving through all international airports are encouraged to complete the online Pre-Arrival Information Declaration within 3 days prior to arrival via the official portal https://prearrival.immigration.gov.vn.
- IMPORTANT: The client is fully responsible for obtaining all necessary visas. Travel Insurance is compulsory on all Contiki Asia trips. Full passport details are required 60 days from departure as ground handlers require this information.
- ACCOMMODATION: Single or Twin/Share is only available during the first 12 days of the trip in hotels. Any special stays will be twin (Halong Bay) or multi-share (Mekong Delta) - single supplement will not apply on these nights. During the Ha Giang portion of this trip all travellers will stay in multi-share as single/twin rooms are not available for these nights.
- NOTE: A small overnight bag will be required for some nights of this trip. Baggage during the Ha Giang Loop is restricted to one backpack. Main suitcase can be stored at the homestay in Ha Giang.
- GROUND HANDLER: This trip is operated by Contiki Holidays Asia Limited & you have one of our awesome Trip Managers on board. In South East Asia we contract our Ground services through a local Destination Management Company, called Trails of Indochina. Their local guides & our Trip Manager will look after you through-out the trip (Best of Vietnam portion). The Ha Giang Loop portion of the trip is operated on behalf of Contiki by our trusted third party supplier Mango Tiger and led by one of their Trip Managers too.
Policies
All purchases are subject to re-confirmation within 2-3 business days after booking. Please do not book airline tickets until you have received the confirmation.
Complete operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, is included on your e-ticket. You must print the e-tickets and take them along on your trip; they are your proof of purchase.
Travel Documents
Each passenger must carry a valid travel document. (Valid visa for countries needed) (E.g. Green Card, Passport, Re-Entry Permit, and etc.) Tour operator is not responsible for lost or stolen personal items.
Each passenger must carry a valid travel document. (Valid visa for countries needed) (E.g. Green Card, Passport, Re-Entry Permit, and etc.) Tour operator is not responsible for lost or stolen personal items.
Cancellation penalties per person (request day and departure day are not counted)
30 days or more prior to departure - $175/person penalty.
2-29 days or more prior to departure - $280/person penalty.
Day of departure no show or late - 100% per person.
If the tour include airtickets, additional $75+airline surcharge will be charged as penalty.
Unused features are non-refundable. No shows forfeit entire payment.
Trips require a minimum number of participants to avoid cancellation. We reserve the right to cancel a scheduled trip to fully refund affected customers although tour companies will make every effort to maintain normal operations.
The refund amount will be credited directly to your TakeTours wallet as credits for future use. Or the refund can also be forwarded directly to your credit card with a 6% handling fee.
NOTE: We cannot grant any refunds more than 30 days after completion of the tour.
30 days or more prior to departure - $175/person penalty.
2-29 days or more prior to departure - $280/person penalty.
Day of departure no show or late - 100% per person.
If the tour include airtickets, additional $75+airline surcharge will be charged as penalty.
Unused features are non-refundable. No shows forfeit entire payment.
Trips require a minimum number of participants to avoid cancellation. We reserve the right to cancel a scheduled trip to fully refund affected customers although tour companies will make every effort to maintain normal operations.
The refund amount will be credited directly to your TakeTours wallet as credits for future use. Or the refund can also be forwarded directly to your credit card with a 6% handling fee.
NOTE: We cannot grant any refunds more than 30 days after completion of the tour.
Q & A
Popular FAQs
Bangkok: A modular trip means fellow travellers will join and leave at various locations. There’ll be some goodbyes, sure, but there’ll also be plenty of hellos with new like-minded travellers.
Danang: Vietnam is wonderful to visit year-round. But the best time to visit depends on what you wanna do, and where in Vietnam you wanna go.Generally, April & May are thought to be the best months to visit Vietnam because of the beautifully bright weather. Between December and March is a slightly cooler period. So if hiking, or city-dwelling is what you want, that’s the best time to visit. And if you wanna avoid the crowds, off-season tends to be between April and June or September to November.
Danang: The currency used in Vietnam (that can buy you a wholesome, delicious bowl of Pho) is the Vietnamese dong (₫).
Danang: Planning to visit Vietnam to taste all the wholesome flavours? Aren’t we all?You’ll find plenty of street food stop-offs, serving up freshly made gems including rice, noodle and battered pancake-based dishes, plus the world-famous Pho. Pork is a common feature of Vietnamese cuisine. Generally, Vietnamese food isn’t too spicy (except if your dish has fresh chillies in it!) Oh, and the best thing about the food here? It’s very very cheap.
Danang: When you travel with Contiki, your accommodation, in-country transport and breakfasts are all included with the cost of your trip. So when it comes to budgeting, you only need to worry about your shopping! Luckily, Vietnam is heralded as an extremely affordable tourist destination too. As a rough guide, you should easily get by on US $50-80 a day.
Danang: We’ll be visiting some traditional tourist hotspots - so don’t forget to keep your shoulders covered (it's customary in Vietnam, and will probably be insisted). For all that beach exploration, it’s generally acceptable for tourists to dress in the swimwear of their choice.Vietnam tends to get very hot & humid, so make sure you pack lots of loose-fitting clothes made from a lightweight and breathable material. Big up the baggy shirts!
Danang: Tipping is pretty common in Vietnam’s tourism and hospitality sectors. Usually you’ll pay 10% of the total bill, which will amount to roughly $1-5.
Danang: On some days, the Free Time Add-Ons will be during different times. So you’ll be able to do them all! But on some days, you might have to pick just one. Don’t worry, your Trip Manager will do their best to manage all of this for you, and will be able to give you all the details you might need.
Danang: You can bring one bag or suitcase of 73cm x 50cm x 25cm (29” x 20” x 10”), with a max weight of 20kg (44lbs) – plus one piece of hand luggage suitable as a carry-on for flights. Since our trips have included flights, your luggage needs to meet the weight & security restrictions imposed by airlines. On this trip, it’s necessary to use an overnight bag on the occasional nights when it’s not possible to access your luggage (overnight trips to Special Stays). It’s a good idea to bring an overnight bag, or hand luggage that’s big enough to double up as an overnighter when needed.
Danang: Currently, the Golden Hands Bridge isn’t included on our itinerary. But that means, you get a free day to explore Hoi An - which you REALLY don’t wanna miss out on.The Bridge is part of a theme park called ‘Sun World Ba Na Hills’ and is about a 2-hour drive away from where we stay in Hoi An (and tends to be incredibly crowded!). But if you really wanna visit the bridge, you can always ask your Trip Manager who’ll sort it out for you!
Ha Giang Loop: Nope. We explore Ha Giang in style and safety using mini-coaches, overnight buses, local boats, plus hikes and kayaking. This way, you still see all the epic scenery without the risks of riding a motorbike. It's adventure, comfort, and peace of mind all in one.
Danang: Vietnam is wonderful to visit year-round. But the best time to visit depends on what you wanna do, and where in Vietnam you wanna go.Generally, April & May are thought to be the best months to visit Vietnam because of the beautifully bright weather. Between December and March is a slightly cooler period. So if hiking, or city-dwelling is what you want, that’s the best time to visit. And if you wanna avoid the crowds, off-season tends to be between April and June or September to November.
Danang: The currency used in Vietnam (that can buy you a wholesome, delicious bowl of Pho) is the Vietnamese dong (₫).
Danang: Planning to visit Vietnam to taste all the wholesome flavours? Aren’t we all?You’ll find plenty of street food stop-offs, serving up freshly made gems including rice, noodle and battered pancake-based dishes, plus the world-famous Pho. Pork is a common feature of Vietnamese cuisine. Generally, Vietnamese food isn’t too spicy (except if your dish has fresh chillies in it!) Oh, and the best thing about the food here? It’s very very cheap.
Danang: When you travel with Contiki, your accommodation, in-country transport and breakfasts are all included with the cost of your trip. So when it comes to budgeting, you only need to worry about your shopping! Luckily, Vietnam is heralded as an extremely affordable tourist destination too. As a rough guide, you should easily get by on US $50-80 a day.
Danang: We’ll be visiting some traditional tourist hotspots - so don’t forget to keep your shoulders covered (it's customary in Vietnam, and will probably be insisted). For all that beach exploration, it’s generally acceptable for tourists to dress in the swimwear of their choice.Vietnam tends to get very hot & humid, so make sure you pack lots of loose-fitting clothes made from a lightweight and breathable material. Big up the baggy shirts!
Danang: Tipping is pretty common in Vietnam’s tourism and hospitality sectors. Usually you’ll pay 10% of the total bill, which will amount to roughly $1-5.
Danang: On some days, the Free Time Add-Ons will be during different times. So you’ll be able to do them all! But on some days, you might have to pick just one. Don’t worry, your Trip Manager will do their best to manage all of this for you, and will be able to give you all the details you might need.
Danang: You can bring one bag or suitcase of 73cm x 50cm x 25cm (29” x 20” x 10”), with a max weight of 20kg (44lbs) – plus one piece of hand luggage suitable as a carry-on for flights. Since our trips have included flights, your luggage needs to meet the weight & security restrictions imposed by airlines. On this trip, it’s necessary to use an overnight bag on the occasional nights when it’s not possible to access your luggage (overnight trips to Special Stays). It’s a good idea to bring an overnight bag, or hand luggage that’s big enough to double up as an overnighter when needed.
Danang: Currently, the Golden Hands Bridge isn’t included on our itinerary. But that means, you get a free day to explore Hoi An - which you REALLY don’t wanna miss out on.The Bridge is part of a theme park called ‘Sun World Ba Na Hills’ and is about a 2-hour drive away from where we stay in Hoi An (and tends to be incredibly crowded!). But if you really wanna visit the bridge, you can always ask your Trip Manager who’ll sort it out for you!
Ha Giang Loop: Nope. We explore Ha Giang in style and safety using mini-coaches, overnight buses, local boats, plus hikes and kayaking. This way, you still see all the epic scenery without the risks of riding a motorbike. It's adventure, comfort, and peace of mind all in one.
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