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Signature: Vietnam from the Mekong Delta to Hanoi
12 Days Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi
Overview
Traverse Vietnam’s dramatic contrasts, from the neon south to the karst peaks of the north. Cruise the delta, walk imperial grounds, and explore ancient Hội An. Guided by experts, meet the conservationists and artisans preserving the wild and cultural heart of the country.
Trip Length
12 Days
Trip Starts
Ho Chi Minh City
Trip Ends
Hanoi
Departures
Jan 2027 to Dec 2027
Countries Visited:
Trip Style
National Geographic Signature
Accommodation
4.5 - 5 Star
Budget
Premium
Age Range
12-99 Years
Max. Group Size
22
Pace
Moderate
Guide Style
Fully Guided
Tour Code
AVSHNS
Itinerary
Welcome to Vietnam. Your expedition begins as you touch down in Ho Chi Minh City, where the tropical heat mixes with the electric hum of a metropolis on the move. You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel to settle in. The evening is free to rest and refresh, preparing for the upcoming expedition. Please note, there are no planned activities today and your Welcome Meeting will be held on day 2.
Accommodation:
Hotel des Arts Saigon
Included Experiences
- Arrival Transfer: You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
Meet your National Geographic Expedition Leader and Expedition Expert for a welcome briefing before visiting the Reunification Palace. Walk the time-capsule rooms of the 1970s and descend into the wartime bunker, feeling the heavy silence of the past. For lunch, experience social impact dining at ST25 by KOTO, hearing inspiring stories of how hospitality training transforms the lives of disadvantaged youth. Explore the neo-Romanesque Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office before a nostalgic coffee stop at a communist-era themed café. Conclude with a welcome dinner, celebrating the start to your expedition through Vietnam.
Accommodation:
Hotel des Arts Saigon
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Welcome Moment - Meet your Expedition Leader and Group: Begin with a welcome briefing and expert-led “Introduction to Vietnam” presentation, followed by an in-depth visit inside the Reunification Palace, including its wartime bunker — offering essential context for understanding modern Vietnamese history.
- Reunification Palace Visit: Wander the historic halls of the Reunification Palace (Independence Palace), a landmark in Ho Chi Minh City. This former home of the South Vietnamese president during the Vietnam War became the location of the end of the war when a North Vietnamese tank pushed through the palace gates on April 30, 1975.
- Social Impact Dining at ST25 by KOTO: Enjoy a set-menu lunch at ST25 by KOTO, where the restaurant manager shares stories from KOTO’s social enterprise model.
- Free Time: During your free time, relax at your hotel or explore your surroundings before the afternoon walk.
- Signature Saigon City Walk: Explore key downtown icons — the Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, and a nostalgic coffee stop at Cong Cafe — before ending with a private top-floor welcome dinner.
- Welcome Dinner at One River Restaurant: Enjoy a private top-floor welcome dinner at One River Restaurant featuring a pre-dinner cocktail session.
See the city through a new lens — literally. Join an immersive photography workshop using vintage film cameras to capture the texture of Saigon, framing shots of hidden cafés, peeling colonial facades, and bustling markets. After a classic pho lunch, travel to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Explore the underground network with a Vietnam War veteran, gaining a visceral understanding of resilience and survival in the cramped, silent earth. Return to the city by scenic speedboat, letting the river breeze cool you as the skyline comes into view, transforming the ride back into a visual experience of life on the water. The evening is free to dine on your own.
Accommodation:
Hotel des Arts Saigon
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch
Included Experiences
- Vintage Camera Photography Experience: Join an immersive photography workshop using vintage film cameras to explore hidden Saigon corners from Cheo Leo Coffee (the city’s oldest café) to former American barracks and local markets.
- Pho Lunch: Enjoy an authentic bowl of pho in a classic Saigon eatery known for its local flavors and cultural significance.
- Cu Chi Tunnels Guided Tour: Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels with a Vietnam War veteran, gaining firsthand insights into the site’s history before returning to Ho Chi Minh City by scenic speedboat and ending the day with a relaxed evening at leisure.
- Speedboat: Enjoy a scenic speedboat transfer along the Saigon River, offering unique views of the city's skyline.
Leave the city for the lush, green world of the Mekong Delta. Stop at a local cacao farm to trace the stages from pod to bar, smelling the roasting beans and tasting unique specialties like cacao wine. After lunch surrounded by tropical foliage, transfer to Can Tho by speedboat, gliding deeper into the river’s arteries past stilt houses and fishing boats. Settle into your resort with high tea by the pool. Join the group for a discussion and introduction to Life along the Mekong river, preparing for tomorrow’s immersion in the "Rice Bowl" of Vietnam.
Accommodation:
Legacy Mekong
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch
Included Experiences
- Cacao Farm Experience: Visit a local cacao farm to learn about the cacao-making process firsthand, meet the farmer, and taste unique regional specialties such as cacao wine and fresh coconut juice.
- High Tea & Expert Introduction to Mekong Life: Settle in with High Tea by the pool, where an expert provides an engaging introduction to the Mekong River’s ecology, culture, and local livelihoods.
Rise early to witness the Cai Rang Floating Market, where the river teems with boats piling high with tropical fruit — pineapples, watermelons, and dragon fruit hanging from bamboo poles. Navigate the colorful chaos as the sun rises over the water, revealing the daily life of river traders. Later, engage in a discussion delving into the challenges facing the Delta’s ecosystem. Return to the city and fly to Da Nang and transfer to the ancient town of Hội An. The evening offers a culinary introduction to Central Vietnam with dinner celebrating the unique regional flavors in a beautiful, atmospheric setting.
Accommodation:
Anantara Hoi An Resort
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Sunrise at Cai Rang Floating Market: Begin the day with a private boat ride through the Cai Rang Floating Market, witnessing sunrise over a river filled with trading boats and vibrant displays of fruit — followed by a walk through the lively land market. Cai Rang Floating Market is one of the ten most impressive markets in the world, characterized by colorful boats selling tropical fruits and vegetables that are tossed from craft to craft and a little coffee vendor boat bounces in and out of the gaps, serving strong iced coffee to both vendors and customers. This market is considered a special gem in Vietnam, boasting the uniqueness of life on the Mekong River.
- Private Roundtable with Dr. Nguyen Huu Thien: Participate in an intimate and insightful discussion with one of the Mekong Delta’s leading environmental expert, known as the Delta Boy.
- Free Time in Can Tho: During your free time, relax at your hotel or explore your surroundings before traveling to Can Tho Airport.
- Plane: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
- Private Dinner at Mango Restaurant: Enjoy a private dining experience with Chef Duc at Mango Restaurant, offering an inspired culinary introduction to Central Vietnam.
Walk the vibrant streets of Hội An, smelling the street food and admiring the yellow merchant houses draped in bougainvillea. Join a workshop at Oodles of Noodles, a G Adventures-supported partner, to learn the art of making local noodles while supporting youth empowerment. Later this evening holds an exclusive after-hours access to the Japanese Covered Bridge. Accompanied by a conservationist, walk the silent, lantern-lit structure without the crowds, learning about the efforts to preserve this icon. Conclude with a light dinner in the old town, watching lanterns float down the Thu Bon River.
Accommodation:
Anantara Hoi An Resort
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Hoi An Guided Walking Tour and Exploration: Join a walking tour of Hoi An, including Hoi An Market, a traditional ancient house, and an Assembly Hall, followed by free time to explore the ancient town on your terms.
- Free Time in Hoi An: Travel back to the hotel for free time in the afternoon.
- Behind-the-Scenes Japanese Covered Bridge: Enjoy exclusive after-hours access to the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, accompanied by a conservation specialist who shares insider knowledge on preservation.
- Oodles of Noodles Demonstration and Lunch: Try some of the oodles of noodles (more than 26 types!) available in Hoi An though this tasty cooking class. Former street youth that are part of this community project will help you prepare and cook a number of different types of noodles. Then, enjoy your delicious creations while learning more about local cuisine. This hospitality training program helps youth practice their English, increasing their skill set and opportunities available to them in the tourism industry.
Board the Heritage Train for a scenic journey to Huế, watching the dramatic coastline and lush Hai Van Pass unfold through the window — a route often called one of the most beautiful in the world. Arrive in the former imperial capital and settle in. The evening brings an exclusive experience at the Ben Xuan Garden House, the residence of an imperial descendant. In the candlelit garden villa, surrounded by antiques and orchids, enjoy a delicious dinner accompanied by an intimate musical performance. It is a moment of pure connection to the refined cultural heritage of the Nguyen Dynasty.
Accommodation:
Azerai La Residence
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Free Time in Hoi An: This morning, enjoy free time for leisure or last minute shopping in the Old town before check-out.
- Train: Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
- Private Dinner & Concert at Ben Xuan Garden House: Spend the evening at the elegant home of artist-musician Camille Huyen, a descendant of Emperor Minh Mạng, featuring a private dinner and intimate musical performance in a beautifully preserved garden villa.
Cruise the Perfume River to the seven-story Thien Mu Pagoda, a symbol of the city rising from the mist. Explore the vast Imperial City by electric car, stopping for a traditional tea tasting to learn the nuances of royal blends and the philosophy of Vietnamese tea culture. Savor a vegetarian lunch at a historic restaurant, honoring the Buddhist roots of the city. Visit the tomb of a Nguyen Emperor, admiring the harmony of architecture and nature in the pine forests. After, transfer to the airport for an evening flight to Hanoi, the thousand-year-old capital where ancient temples sit beside French villas.
Accommodation:
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch
Included Experiences
- Hue’s Heritage by River & Citadel: Enjoy a scenic Perfume River boat ride to Thien Mu Pagoda, followed by an electric-car visit through the Imperial City, ending with a traditional tea tasting at the historic Nhi Do Mai Tea House.
- Royal Tombs: Explore one of Hue’s most remarkable mausoleums. Visit the tranquil lakes, stunning architecture and pavilions surrounded by pines.
- Plane: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Pay respects at the Ho Chi Minh Complex before enjoying a restorative foot massage at Dao’s Car, a social enterprise supporting visually impaired therapists. Walk the historic Long Bien Bridge and hear stories of resilience from the Expedition Leader. In the afternoon, hop on a cyclo for an ‘elevated street eats’ tour, weaving through the traffic to sample bun cha and egg coffee while learning about a unique initiative supported by the Planeterra Foundation. Conclude the day with an atmospheric night tour of the Temple of Literature. Watch a cultural performance in the ancient courtyards, illuminated by soft light that highlights the stone stelae of scholars past.
Accommodation:
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Presidential Complex, and One Pillar Pagoda: Enter the Ho Chi Minh Comple, a significant historical and cultural landmark honoring the revolutionary leader, President Ho Chi Minh, to visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Presidential Complex, and One Pillar Pagoda.
- Foot Massage at Dao's Care Spa: Enjoy a restorative foot massage experience at Dao’s Care, a social enterprise dedicated to training visually impaired therapists.
- Long Bien Bridge Guided Visit: Travel to Long Bien Bridge for a guided bridge tour with an expert talk on Red River trade, colonial engineering, wartime survival, and everyday life under/around the bridge.
- Hanoi Elevated Street Eats Tour: Enjoy an immersive cyclo-led street food journey curated by Insight Hanoi — from bánh cuốn to bún chả to an egg coffee performance — capped with a special talk about Planeterra by Insight Hanoi's founders.
- Night Tour at the Temple of Literature: Conclude the night with the Temple of Literature Night Tour, a beautifully staged cultural performance and optional calligraphy workshop.
Travel to the karst landscapes of Ninh Binh, often called "Halong Bay on land." Glide through the tranquil Van Long Nature Reserve on a small boat, the only sound being the dip of the oar and the call of birds. Search the limestone cliffs for the critically endangered Delacour's langur. After a family-style lunch, check into your resort. The afternoon features an exclusive session with a National Geographic Explorer. Gain rare insight into Vietnam’s ecosystems and the fight to protect its most vulnerable species, deepening your appreciation for the natural world around you before a relaxed dinner.
Accommodation:
Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Van Long Wetlands Boat Trip: Experience the tranquility of the Van Long Nature Reserve, gliding through peaceful wetland landscapes surrounded by limestone karsts and rich biodiversity.
- Wildlife Talk: Join an exclusive wildlife session with a Nat Geo Grantee, gaining rare insights into Vietnam’s ecosystems and conservation efforts.
Witness conservation in action at the Endangered Primate Rescue Center and Save Vietnam’s Wildlife organizations which were founded by National Geographic Explorer, Thai Van Nguyen. Walk the quiet paths to see the meticulous care given to pangolins and langurs, learning about the challenges of rehabilitation and release. Return to the resort for a celebratory farewell dinner. Toast the expedition and the people working to protect the country's unique heritage, reflecting on the path from the bustling south to the wild beauty of the north.
Accommodation:
Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Cuc Phuong Conservation Experience: Visit both the Primate Rescue Center and Save Vietnam’s Wildlife Rescue Center, gaining firsthand insight into Vietnam’s leading conservation efforts. Then, hear from Mr. Thai Van Nguyen or a member of his team about deepening the understanding of wildlife protection, endangered species, and real-world conservation challenges in Vietnam.
- Farewell Evening at Emeralda Resort: Return to the resort for an expert-led wrap-up presentation followed by a family-style farewell dinner, celebrating the journey and the people working to protect Vietnam’s natural heritage.
Your expedition to Vietnam concludes today. Transfer to the Hanoi airport, provided at any time during the day.
Please schedule onward travel departing from Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) no earlier than 5:00 pm on the final day of you trip.
Please schedule onward travel departing from Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) no earlier than 5:00 pm on the final day of you trip.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Departure Transfer: You will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport at the end of your adventure.
Trip Inclusions
- Engage in an intimate discussion on the delta’s future with a leading environmental expert.
- Master local noodle traditions in Hội An while supporting a youth empowerment project.
- Gain exclusive after-hours entry to Hội An’s iconic bridge with a conservation specialist.
- Visit primate and wildlife rescue centres to learn about protecting Vietnam’s species.
- Tour a local cacao farm to meet growers and taste fresh chocolate and cacao wine.
- Your G for Good Moment: Oodles of Noodles Demonstration and Lunch, Hoi An
- Your Welcome Moment: Meet your Expedition Leader and Group, Ho Chi Minh City
- Your Foodie Moment: Pho Lunch, Ho Chi Minh City
- Your Local Living Moment: Cacao Farm Experience, Tỉnh Tiền Giang
- Signature Moment: Private Roundtable with Dr
- Nguyen Huu Thien, Cần Thơ
- Your Foodie Moment: Private Dinner at Mango Restaurant, Hoi An
- Signature Moment: Behind-the-Scenes Japanese Covered Bridge, Hoi An
- Your Foodie Moment: Hanoi Elevated Street Eats Tour, Hanoi
- Arrival & departure transfer
- Reunification Palace Visit
- Social Impact Dining at ST25 by KOTO
- Free time in Ho Chi Minh City
- Walking tour of Ho Chi Minh City
- Welcome Dinner at One River Restaurant
- Vintage Camera Photography Experience
- Cu Chi Tunnels Guided Tour
- Sunrise at Cai Rang Floating Market
- Free Time in Can Tho
- Hoi An Guided Walking Tour and Exploration
- Free Time in Hoi An
- Private Dinner & Concert at Ben Xuan Garden House
- Royal Tombs Visit
- Hue’s Heritage by River & Citadel
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Presidential Complex, and One Pillar Pagoda
- Foot Massage at Dao's Care Spa Social Enterprise
- Long Bien Bridge Guided Visit
- Night Tour at the Temple of Literature
- Van Long Wetlands Boat Trip
- Session on Vietnamese Wildlife with National Geographic Grantee
- Cuc Phuong Conservation Experience
- Emeralda Resort Farewell dinner
- Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout
- Porterage at hotels and when getting on and off of vehicles
- Tips are included for all activities, meals and porterage, except for your Expedition Leader
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
- Private Vehicle, Electric Car, Walking, Cyclo, Plane, Boat, Train
- National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert
- Hotel (11 Nights)
- 11 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 7 dinners
- Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included.
Operator
G Adventures came from a desire to deliver authentic and responsible small group travel adventures that were equally life-changing for travellers and the communities they visit. And we’re been doing just that for almost 30 years. Our award-winning trips span seven continents and over 100 countries, more giving you meaningful experiences with people, cultures, landscapes and wildlife, as well as offering you the freedom and flexibility to explore on your own.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
Trip Style: National Geographic Signature
These ultra-premium journeys combine deep cultural immersion with five-star comfort and the authority of National Geographic. Created in collaboration with G Adventures, each experience offers rare access, meaningful connections with communities, and expert insight from leading specialists.
With world-class service, thoughtfully curated inclusions, and unforgettable Signature Moments throughout, these journeys are designed for travellers who seek refined luxury without losing a sense of purpose or discovery.
Dates & Pricing
AUD
Saturday
02 Jan 2027
02 Jan 27
Ho Chi Minh City
Wednesday
13 Jan 2027
13 Jan 27
Hanoi
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $11,699
A$11,465
Save $234
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
16 Jan 2027
16 Jan 27
Ho Chi Minh City
Wednesday
27 Jan 2027
27 Jan 27
Hanoi
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $11,699
A$11,465
Save $234
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
13 Feb 2027
13 Feb 27
Ho Chi Minh City
Wednesday
24 Feb 2027
24 Feb 27
Hanoi
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $11,699
A$11,465
Save $234
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
20 Feb 2027
20 Feb 27
Ho Chi Minh City
Wednesday
03 Mar 2027
03 Mar 27
Hanoi
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
A$11,699
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Saturday
06 Mar 2027
06 Mar 27
Ho Chi Minh City
Wednesday
17 Mar 2027
17 Mar 27
Hanoi
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $11,249
A$11,024
Save $225
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
20 Mar 2027
20 Mar 27
Ho Chi Minh City
Wednesday
31 Mar 2027
31 Mar 27
Hanoi
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
A$11,249
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Saturday
16 Oct 2027
16 Oct 27
Ho Chi Minh City
Wednesday
27 Oct 2027
27 Oct 27
Hanoi
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $11,249
A$11,024
Save $225
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
06 Nov 2027
06 Nov 27
Ho Chi Minh City
Wednesday
17 Nov 2027
17 Nov 27
Hanoi
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $11,249
A$11,024
Save $225
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
20 Nov 2027
20 Nov 27
Ho Chi Minh City
Wednesday
01 Dec 2027
01 Dec 27
Hanoi
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $11,249
A$11,024
Save $225
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
04 Dec 2027
04 Dec 27
Ho Chi Minh City
Wednesday
15 Dec 2027
15 Dec 27
Hanoi
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $11,699
A$11,465
Save $234
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
11 Dec 2027
11 Dec 27
Ho Chi Minh City
Wednesday
22 Dec 2027
22 Dec 27
Hanoi
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $11,699
A$11,465
Save $234
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Enquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Enquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
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