Central Vietnam Adventure - Quang Binh National Park - Hang En Cave 14 Days/13 Nights

Welcome to Hanoi! You've just landed in this vibrant city, and it's time to acclimate to the tropical weather and the local time zone.

Your exploration of Hanoi begins today, and it's a journey that touches on various facets of this captivating city. First, you'll visit the Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh to pay your respects to Uncle Ho. Following that, embark on a culinary adventure in the Old Quarter. As you delve deeper into its charming alleyways, a local insider will be your guide, helping you discover hidden gems.

After a satisfying lunch, you'll get a glimpse into the rich and diverse lifestyles of ethnic minority groups at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. Then, immerse yourself in the culture and history of Hanoi with a visit to the Temple of Literature. Along the way, you'll pick up practical skills such as how to identify the best spot for egg coffee, how to choose the freshest mangoes, and even how to customize your Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich) fillings. Of course, you won't leave without learning the art of capturing the perfect Pho photo for your Instagram!

After breakfast, you'll take a shuttle transfer to Halong Bay and board your cruise. Your Halong Bay adventure will introduce you to the wonders of Cua Van Fishing Village, Vung Vieng Fishing Village, Me Cung Caves, Virgin Cave, Surprise Cave, and enchanting islets like Flight Cock Islet, Human Head Islet, and Toad Islet, among others (itinerary may vary depending on your cruise).

In the evening, your cruise will anchor in a tranquil, less-crowded area, allowing you to sleep under the starry night sky.

Your memorable cruise concludes around noon with a delicious brunch. You'll then meet your tour guide and driver at the pier, heading to Hanoi Airport for your flight to Hue. After checking in, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Today, you'll immerse yourself in the elegance of the ancient city of Hue. Your journey begins with a visit to Dong Ba Market, followed by exploration of the Imperial City and Royal Palace. Afterward, hop on a motorbike for an adventurous ride to the picturesque Tam Giang Lagoon. As the sun sets, you'll return to Hue, having witnessed its beauty in a whole new light.

After breakfast, your private tour guide and driver will take you to Quang Binh, a region blessed with lush forests, serene seas, winding rivers, and breathtaking coastlines. Along the way, you'll visit significant sites from the American Wars, including the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone), Ben Hai River, and Hien Luong Bridge.

Arrive Phong Nha – Ke Bang national park - UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Relax & ready for a real adventure tour !

Start with a jungle trek, hiking down a steep hill to reach a branch of the Rao Thuong Stream leading to the only village located in the core zone of Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park.

After about 1.5 hr of walking and wading through streams, the group will arrive at Doong Village - the home of the minority ethnic community living deep in the jungle. The group will stop for lunch at the village and learn about the life of the people here before continuing the trek to Hang En camp. Continuing walking through the jungle, crossing the river many times, the group will reach Hang En after about 3 hours. There everyone will be equipped with helmets, turn on the headlamps and start climbing the rocky section to explore the cave. Standing on the top of the rocky slope, you will see the entire Hang En Cave camp and the mesmerizing surrounding scenery. After receiving your tent, you can enjoy swimming in the turquoise lake next to the camp, before enjoying delicious food right in the cave. That’s the first camping day!

After breakfast, the group continues, climbing up the rocks behind the camp in a cave, exploring and learning more interesting facts of nature's masterpiece in Quang Binh Province, and admiring the stalagmites and stalactites. At the back of the cave, a new view of the Hang En campsite opens up. Save some precious memories of this unique place.

After wading through the underground streams you will reach the large sandy floor of the gigantic cave exit. The group will return through the cave to the underground camp to have lunch and a short break. The group will then leave the cave, for the final challenge of wading through many streams and climbing a steep hill around 450m high. At the top of the hill is the road and a bus with cold beverages ready to welcome you back after all the challenges in your caving adventure to discover the wonderful Hang En.

Overnight at ecolodge in Phong Nha.

After breakfast, hit the road to Hoi An, with a picturesque stop at Hai Van Pass for some fantastic photo opportunities. Upon arrival in Hoi An in the afternoon, you'll have free time to explore and unwind at your leisure.

Today, immerse yourself in the cultural charm of Hoi An. Your tour guide will lead you to key sites such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, Fujian Assembly Hall, and Old House of Tan Ky.

Enjoy a simple lunch at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to the Chen Family Chapel. Later, prepare for a delightful cooking session outside the ancient town at Hai Scout Café, led by a chef from Red Bridge Restaurant.

Enjoy some leisure time in Hoi An before catching your flight to Ho Chi Minh City via Danang. After checking in, the evening is yours to relax and explore at your own pace.

Embark on a journey to My Tho, a bustling town in the Mekong Delta, just two hours away from Ho Chi Minh City. Along the way, your tour guide will provide insights into the life of this unique region.

Upon arrival, hop on a traditional sampan boat, expertly navigated by a local fisherman who knows how to maneuver through the canals. Visit local workshops to witness the craftsmanship of coconut candy, rice wine, and rice paper, all of which you used to make spring rolls a few days ago. Savor seasonal fruits fresh from the orchard, and engage in a heartfelt conversation with the garden host, learning about their philosophy of life.

Embark on a half-day exploration to discover the highlights of Ho Chi Minh City, including the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Old Central Post Office.

Afternoon free at leisure for walking around the downtown of Saigon or shopping souvernir home.

On the last day, depart Ho Chi Minh City for your onward flight home.