Private Tour Highlights
- Sail Halong Bay in a traditional sailing Junk
- Kayak through hidden beaches, caves and limestone cliffs
- See a flurry of commerce and activity along the banks of the Mekong
- Interact with the indigenous Khmer people
- Delve into the “rice bowl of the country” – the Mekong Delta
- See self-contained farms where local families raise and sell fish to passing boats
- Sail through the bay on a traditional sailing junk
- The Mekong River, decorated with hundreds of floating homes
- Browse colorful floating markets
- Interact with resident Buddhist Monks
Tour Overview
After touring Hanoi and its surroundings, set out on a traditional sailing junk to cruise the waters of Halong Bay. From your boat you will have numerous opportunities each day to kayak through the hidden beaches, caves and limestone cliffs and even enjoy some night paddles. Once you’ve had your fill in the bay, get lost in the Mekong Delta. Here you will enjoy a few mesmerizing days of exploring the canals, visiting floating fishing villages and experiencing this unique way of life.
Kayaking upon the sapphire waters of Halong Bay provides one of the most intimate ways to experience this national treasure. Setting out into the bay aboard a traditional sailing junk, on which you will also spend the night, you will have many opportunities to disembark with your own individual kayak for further exploration. Paddle through the limestone karst formations, along beaches and past beautiful grottoes and caves for a mind dazzling tour of this scenic area.
A trip to the Mekong Delta will expose you to the flurry of activity and commerce among its waters, which are interspersed with seemingly endless rice fields, colorful floating markets and isolated villages accessed only by boat. Annexed from Cambodia by the invading Vietnamese in the 17th Century, the Delta remains home to descendants of the former Khmer Empire and the region is scattered with a working collection of temples and resident Buddhists that continue to use the Khmer language as their mother tongue.
Inclusions
Domestic airfare from Hanoi to Saigon, Hotel accommodation including continental or buffet breakfast, Private transfers between airports and hotels with assistance and baggage handling, Private guided tours in English including all entrance fees, Meals where specified (food only), Bottled water and cool towels provided for transfers and sightseeing, Vietnam government tax and service charge, Local airport taxes that are payable in the country of destination are not included. Taxes and security fees that can be paid at time of ticketing are already included in the quote (if airfare has been included in the quote)
Notes:
* Additional supplements may apply between 19 December – 8 January.
* Additional supplements may apply during the weeks immediately preceding and following the Lunar (Chinese) New Year. The dates vary each year, but fall sometime between January 21st and February 20th:
2016 – Monday, February 8th
2017 – Saturday, January 28th
2018 – Friday, February 16th
* Halong Bay cruise ship operation may be subject to current weather conditions. If your cruise does not operate due to undesirable conditions, an alternate itinerary will be provided; please enquire with your Yampu Tours Travel Consultant for additional details.
Package Price: From £$ 4845
Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.
Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.
Trip Type:
All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!
Tour Itinerary
International Flight to Hanoi
Overnight international flight to Hanoi
Overnight international flight to Hanoi
Arrival in Hanoi
Upon arrival in Hanoi, airport reception and transfer to the hotel in a private vehicle. Depending on arrival time, spend the remainder of the day at leisure.
Upon arrival in Hanoi, airport reception and transfer to the hotel in a private vehicle. Depending on arrival time, spend the remainder of the day at leisure.
Hanoi City Highlights
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Morning tour of the Ho Chi Minh Complex with a private guide. Visit Ba Dinh Square, where silent sentries guard the marble and granite mausoleum where Ho Chi Minh lies in state. See the simple cottage where Uncle Ho lived and worked and visit the nearby Ho Chi Minh Museum - an extraordinary tribute to the life of the "father of the country." Carry on to the Governor's Residence, a fine example of Hanoi's French architecture, followed by a stop at the One Pillar Pagoda to hear the legend of its construction.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant followed by a private afternoon tour of the Hanoi City highlights. Marvel at the tree lined streets on the way to the Opera House and pass by Hoan Kiem Lake en route to one of the city's fascinating museums of choice: The Museum of History of Vietnamese Military, Vietnam History Museum, or Vietnam Fine Arts Museum. Continue to the Temple of Literature, built in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius, for a quick escape from the busy streets. Afterwards, enjoy a private guided walking tour of the Ancient Quarter, also known as the 36 Streets District, where a nice mix of ancient homes, temples and small shops will be found.
Note: The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is closed for maintenance on Mondays and Fridays from September to November annually.
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Pagodas of Hanoi
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Take a morning excursion outside of Hanoi to the surrounding countryside with a private guide. Rich in Buddhism, the north of Vietnam is home to the country's most colorful and revered pagodas and temples. The Thay Pagoda (Master's Pagoda) is located 40 kilometers (25 miles) southwest of Hanoi. While a temple is a place to worship the dead, a pagoda is a place to worship the Lord Buddha. Thay Pagoda is widely known for its finely carved lacquer and gold statues of Buddha in his past and present form, as well as the colorful Buddhist ceremonies performed here during auspicious dates of the Lunar calendar.
Only 6 kilometers (4 miles) away lies Tay Phuong Pagoda, situated at the top of a small hillock. Built in 1794, the pagoda is famous for its vast display of finely carved wooden statues of former monks from the 18th Century. Afterwards, return to Hanoi to enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Lunch is included today.
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Hanoi – Taun Chau Island – Thien Canh Son Island
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This morning transfer to Tuan Chau Island to board the Paradise Luxury and begin the unforgettable excursion across Halong Bay. As the vessel sets sail around noon, guests will be greeted by the Paradise Crew for a brief overview of the amenities onboard and enjoy a lunch featuring local and international cuisine.
This afternoon, arrive at Thien Canh Son Island where guests will spend time kayaking around the area. Upon return to the Paradise Luxury, the vessel will continue sailing until it reaches its docking point in Nha Lot. Enjoy dinner and activities available aboard the vessel. Overnight on vessel.
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Exploring the Vung Vieng Fishing Village
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Early this morning there will be an opportunity to join a Tai Chi demonstration, an ancient martial art practice derived from the Chinese that the Vietnamese use to cultivate their physical and psychological well-being. Enjoy an international breakfast buffet and transfer to the Paradise Explorer day boat for an excursion to Vung Vieng Fishing Village. Explore the village on a traditional bamboo boat rowed by locals to experience the life of living on the water.
Return to the Paradise Explorer for a Vietnamese lunch and continue cruising to Vung Ha Island. Enjoy this time kayaking around the island before returning to the Paradise Explorer and heading back to the main boat. Enjoy a cooking demonstration and dinner on the main boat. The remainder of the evening is at leisure. Overnight on boat.
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Visit to Sung Sot Cave
This morning as the sun rises there will be another opportunity to attend a Tai Chi demonstration located on the top deck. Then, enjoy coffee, tea, and pastries before visiting Sung Sot Cave, the largest cave in Halong Bay. Take the 600 steps to see the magnificent limestone formations.
Return to the ship for an international breakfast buffet and then check out of the cabin. Upon arrival at Tuan Chau Island, disembark for a boat reception and then transfer to a hotel in Hanoi for check-in.
This morning as the sun rises there will be another opportunity to attend a Tai Chi demonstration located on the top deck. Then, enjoy coffee, tea, and pastries before visiting Sung Sot Cave, the largest cave in Halong Bay. Take the 600 steps to see the magnificent limestone formations.
Return to the ship for an international breakfast buffet and then check out of the cabin. Upon arrival at Tuan Chau Island, disembark for a boat reception and then transfer to a hotel in Hanoi for check-in.
Arrival in Saigon
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Early morning transfer to the airport for a flight to Saigon. Upon arrival, airport reception and transfer to the hotel for check-in.
This afternoon, enjoy a tour of China Town with a private guide. Cholon, which literally translates to "big market", is the focus of the Chinese community in Saigon. See the former Presidential Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Saigon Post Office. Continue on to visit the impressive Thien Hau Temple dedicated to the goddess of the seas, who is said to protect fishermen and sailors. Here, huge coils of incense hang from the ornate ceiling, and can burn for up to three months at a time. Visit Binh Tay Market and the surrounding area, which bustles with trading activity. Return to the hotel.
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Saigon – Can Tho
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Transfer approximately 3 hours in a private vehicle, to the Mekong River town of Cai Be. Board a motorized sampan for an introduction to life on the river with a private guide. Cai Be is known for its large floating market, where displays of food produce are hung from the bamboo poles over the host boat in order to attract customers.
From here, the journey continues across the upper reach of the river to a maze of tributaries and fruit plantations. Barges ply the route, overloaded with rice husks used as fuel for the region's numerous brick kilns. Depending on the season, a sample of local tropical fruit will be served with lunch in a local farmer's home before returning to the boat for the leisurely cruise to Vinh Long. From here, drive and ferry to the Delta's economic hub city of Can Tho. Check into the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
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Visit to Cai Rang
Early this morning, cruise with a private guide to the bustling market town of Cai Rang. Enjoy a sampan ride through the colorful congestion of women and children jostling for space and vying to sell their goods. Return to Can Tho town to visit their museum and a Khmer pagoda in Can Tho City. After lunch at a local restaurant, depart the town for a visit to the Bang Lang Stork Garden and the Binh Thuy Ancient House. Return to the hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Early this morning, cruise with a private guide to the bustling market town of Cai Rang. Enjoy a sampan ride through the colorful congestion of women and children jostling for space and vying to sell their goods. Return to Can Tho town to visit their museum and a Khmer pagoda in Can Tho City. After lunch at a local restaurant, depart the town for a visit to the Bang Lang Stork Garden and the Binh Thuy Ancient House. Return to the hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Can Tho – Chau Doc
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Private morning transfer to Chau Doc near the Cambodian border. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant en route and in the afternoon visit Sam Mountain, a popular pilgrimage center for many Vietnamese and home to a collection of ornate and colorful temples and pagodas. Climb or drive to the top of the hill for an unparalleled 360-degree vista of nearby Cambodia.
The Mekong River at this point is decorated with hundreds of floating homes, each a self contained farm where local families raise and sell fish to passing boats. With a private guide, there will be an opportunity to visit some of them before returning to the hotel in Chau Doc for the evening.
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International Flight home Via Saigon
Private transfer back to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) for a flight home or continue with an optional Yampu Tours add-on.
Private transfer back to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) for a flight home or continue with an optional Yampu Tours add-on.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Can Tho, Vietnam
tp. Châu Đốc, An Giang Province, Vietnam
Places You'll See
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Chau Doc
Learn the art of haggling at the colorful markets of Chau Doc. Visit the Hang Pagoda, an official historic monument of Vietnam. Take a stroll along the charming riverside, and engage in conversation with some of the young locals. Relax with a traditional suction cup massage, or enjoy the quiet of a local coffee shop.
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Can Tho
When the sun goes down, the riverside city of Can Tho comes alive. Take a boat through the city canals to purchase locally made goods and souvenirs at the floating markets. Play a game of billiards with the locals, or relax at the riverside park on Hai Ba Trung Street. Visit the Quang Duc Pagoda, one of the most active Buddhist temples with monks living onsite.
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Hanoi
Meaning “embraced by the river”, Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam. Visit the many temples and parks of this beautiful city, such as the Temple of Literature or Hoan Kiem Lake Park. Visit the Army Museum and hear retellings of many battles fought throughout the country’s history. Take the little ones to the Ha Noi circus for some family fun.
Media Gallery
Hotel Options
3 Star Properties
Hanoi : Church Boutique Hotel Hang Gai
Church Boutique Hotel Hang Gai
Hanoi , VIETNAM
Church Boutique Hotel Hang Gai is a well-appointed hotel, with rooms lavishly decorated with white linen and dark wooden furniture. This boutique Hanoi hotel is located in the trendiest part of Old Quarter filled with boutiques showcasing silk and crafts. The rooms are equipped with flat-screen Satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, minibar, and private bathrooms. L’eglise Petit, the onsite restaurant, offers local flavors and International cuisine that could surely satisfy even the most discriminating taste, as well as a variety of cocktails and mocktails to help unwind after a long day of exploring.
La Belle Vie Hotel
Hanoi , VIETNAM
Excellently situated within easy reach of all Hanoi’s main attractions, La Belle Vie Hotel welcomes guests with timeless elegance, warmth, and immaculate style. Established in 2010, the hotel quickly has drawn recognition for its service. Combining elegant Vietnamese charm with selective modern touches, 40 guest rooms offer great comfort, refined style, and a wide range of amenities and services that take care of all daily, recreational, and business needs. Guests can also enjoy a complimentary buffet breakfast, as well as other meals served in the onsite restaurant.
Hanoi : Golden Silk Boutique Hotel
Golden Silk Boutique Hotel
Hanoi , VIETNAM
Rising over the heart of Hanoi’s central old quarter, the luxury and impressive designed Golden Silk Boutique Hotel features stunning views and gracious style – a remarkable luxury experience, even by Western standards with graceful Asian style. Especially, the front view rooms of the hotel with balconies, captivating vistas of Hanoi’s old quarter. The 55 spacious and elegantly designed rooms are all equipped with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, minibar, and private bathrooms. The Oriental Restaurant serves International and Vietnamese inspired cuisine in a warm atmosphere. The Silk Spa offers a Jacuzzi, sauna, steam facilities, and a variety of spa treatments.
Skylark Hotel
Hanoi , VIETNAM
Step in to Skylark Hotel and experience the fine art of luxury and flawless service unmatched in Hanoi. Skylark Hotel is located on Phan Dinh Phung Street, considered one of the most beautiful streets in Hanoi, attracting many tourists. Here, one will not only admire the unique, ancient architecture, but also be immersed in a lush green space. In addition to the 50 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, the Skylark restaurant and stylist X Bar are privileged places for any meeting at any moment of the day. The Skylark Health Club features the unique roof-top indoor pool and the state-of-the-art fitness center in Hanoi gives guests the best possible conditions for complete well-being.
Can Tho : Nam Bo Boutique Hotel
Nam Bo Boutique Hotel
Can Tho , VIETNAM
The Nam Bo Boutique Hotel is a seven suite hotel located right in the center of the Ninh Kieu pier, in Can Tho. The hotel is a stone’s throw away from every river transport and offers a panoramic view of the Mekong river. Each suite is uniquely designed to make Nam Bo your ideal port of call in the Mekong Delta for a stay, or simply a cocktail or a fine meal.
4 Star Properties
Silk Path Hotel
Hanoi , VIETNAM
Nestled in the heart of Hanoi, Silk Path Hotel Hanoi affords discerning travelers an unrivaled value to explore all the attractions and culture that the city has to offer. The distinctly eclectic décor marries beautifully with all the modern facilities, creating a truly indulgent experience. Silk Path Hotel Hanoi is renowned for its hospitality. In each of the 106 bespoke guest rooms, the harmonious blend of tastefully designed interiors and the latest technology and conveniences creates an oasis of calm and luxury with all the comfort guests would expect. The hotel features a quiet reading lounge, a well-equipped fitness center, a spa, and a selection of varied and unique dining experiences.
Sunway Hotel
Hanoi , VIETNAM
The Sunway Hotel Hanoi is an award winning hotel, with easy access to Hanoi’s commercial and business districts. Located at the quiet end of the French Old Quarter, away from the hustle of the busy city, Sunway Hotel Hanoi is an excellent choice to explore this beautiful city. The 145 spacious and well-appointed rooms offer every comfort for a pleasant stay including a separate dressing area and double-glazed window for sound-proofing, giving a sense of complete privacy. For the energetic, the Fitness Center is equipped with free weights, cardio equipment, personal training and more. Enjoy cozy and relaxed ambiance of Allante Restaurant, serving international, Asian and Vietnamese cuisine.
Mercure Hanoi La Gare
Hanoi , VIETNAM
With Mercure Hanoi La Gare, guests can enjoy the quality of service and bedding guaranteed by an international brand. The 100 spacious and modern rooms are equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, Satellite TV, and private bathroom. The hotel features a beautiful garden courtyard, well-equipped fitness center, Brasserie Le Pavillion offering a delicious menu featuring a range of Vietnamese and international specialties, and Brasserie Le Pavillion Bar where guests can unwind with an eclectic range of cocktails, international and local beers, premium spirits and liquors complemented by a hand-picked selection of wines.
Can Tho : Victoria Can Tho Hotel
Victoria Can Tho Hotel
Can Tho , VIETNAM
On the banks of one of the world’s greatest and most mysterious waters in Vietnam’s ‘Deep South’, Victoria Can Tho Resort is considered the flagship of Victoria Hotels & Resorts in the Mekong Delta — and first luxury hotel in the region. Amid bustling floating markets, a myriad of canals and vibrant green rice paddies, the splendid colonial-style hotel is set in magnificent gardens on the banks of the Hau River.
Chau Doc : Victoria Chau Doc Hotel (Superior)
Victoria Chau Doc Hotel (Superior)
Chau Doc , VIETNAM
Deeper in the Mekong Delta, close to the Cambodian border in a region that is famed for the climax of Francis Ford Coppola’s Apocalypse Now, the Victoria Chau Doc Hotel is built in colonial style with low-rise French architecture. From this unique location beside the Bassac River at the ‘Three River Crossing’, guests can explore life deep into the delta. The resort was awarded for its “Ingenious use of plants to make a green statement” by The Guide, a publication of Vietnam Economic Times.
5 Star Properties
Hotel De L’Opera
Hanoi , VIETNAM
The luxury Hotel de l’Opera Hanoi is located in the center of Hanoi, close to the Opera House. The 105 rooms and suites are a sanctuary of comfort, with hand-picked luxurious amenities and 21st Century technology. Restaurants, a bar, a four-season swimming pool and free Wi-Fi combine to deliver memorable operatic moments for both business and leisure travelers. All the glamour and anticipation of a night at the opera are captured within every experience, from the decadence of the guestrooms to the opulence of Satine restaurant. Enjoy Mediterranean inspired cuisine at Café Lautrec or alternatively Satine, at the heart of hotel’s dramatic 8 story atrium for Vietnamese specialties.
Melia Hotel
Hanoi , VIETNAM
Beautifully located in the heart of Vietnam’s capital, Meliá Hanoi welcomes all who are looking for splendid accommodation, first-class facilities, and warm service. Luxurious rooms and a wide array of facilities, from a state-of-the-art business center to an outdoor swimming pool, make the hotel a perfect choice for business or leisure. The Meliá Hanoi also offers diners a world of culinary delights to explore, from the international themed buffets of El Patio to the local flavors of El Oriental. With spectacular views in every room, dedicated staff, and outstanding facilities, the Meliá Hanoi is perfect for anyone looking to experience the ultimate in rest and relaxation.
Can Tho : Victoria Can Tho Hotel (Suite)
Victoria Can Tho Hotel (Suite)
Can Tho , VIETNAM
On the banks of one of the world’s greatest and most mysterious waters in Vietnam’s ‘Deep South’, Victoria Can Tho Resort is considered the flagship of Victoria Hotels & Resorts in the Mekong Delta — and first luxury hotel in the region. Amid bustling floating markets, a myriad of canals and vibrant green rice paddies, the splendid colonial-style hotel is set in magnificent gardens on the banks of the Hau River.
Chau Doc : Victoria Chau Doc Hotel (Suite)
Victoria Chau Doc Hotel (Suite)
Chau Doc , VIETNAM
Deeper in the Mekong Delta, close to the Cambodian border in a region that is famed for the climax of Francis Ford Coppola’s Apocalypse Now, the Victoria Chau Doc Hotel is built in colonial style with low-rise French architecture. From this unique location beside the Bassac River at the ‘Three River Crossing’, guests can explore life deep into the delta. The resort was awarded for its “Ingenious use of plants to make a green statement” by The Guide, a publication of Vietnam Economic Times.
Luxury Properties
Hanoi : Sofitel Legend Metropole
Sofitel Legend Metropole
Hanoi , VIETNAM
Step back into history at Hanoï’s most storied luxury hotel. A Grand Dame of Southeast Asia Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoï welcomes guests to experience her colonial grandeur and timeless elegance. Located steps from the Opera House in Hanoï’s French Quarter this legendary property brings guests into intimate contact with the opulence of another era. Be surrounded in heritage while strolling stately corridors and exploring a dramatic past. Behind its classical white façade green shutters original wrought iron details and stately wood paneling reside over a century of stories. Stand on the walkways that grace its lush courtyard lawn and be immersed in the hotels rich traditions.
Testimonials
Jeff N.
Traveled June, 2014
Everything met, or exceeded our expectations!
We did not know what to expect with our trip to Vietnam, but everything met, or exceeded our expectations! The guides were both excellent, and added their own local perspective to the areas we explored. All of the included meals were excellent, and exceeded our expectations!
Traveled To
Pritam D.
Traveled October, 2012
We had a nice visit to Vietnam and Cambodia.
We had a nice visit to Vietnam and Cambodia. We enjoyed it a lot and will recommend to other people.
Traveled To
Emily K.
Traveled January, 2015
I had such a great time with Yampu
I had such a great time with Yampu, and I would love to travel with them again. My boyfriend and I booked a customized private tour to Thailand (Bangkok and Chiang Mai), Laos (Luang Prabang), Cambodia (Siem Reap and Phnom Penh), and Vietnam (Saigon, Hanoi, and Halong Bay.) We both enjoyed every minute of the trip. The guides were all friendly and knowledgeable, the drivers were always punctual, the accommodations were lovely, and the food was delicious. I would highly recommend Yampu to anyone who wants to have a good time on their vacation.
Traveled To
