Central Vietnam Adventure - Quang Binh National Park - Tu Lan 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 !

Hike around 2.5km through corn and peanut fields to reach the Rao Nan River bank. From there, you will need to cross the river and climb over a small hill (around 50 m) which is rocky in places. Continuing down the other side the group will reach the flat Hung Ton Valley. After crossing the valley, the group will rest and enjoy lunch at the entrance of Hung Ton Cave. After lunch the trek is a bit more challenging with some steep hills leading to the Tu Lan Valley campsite by the waterfall.

Afternoon activities include swimming and exploring Ken Cave, which is located close to the campsite. Then return to the campsite and enjoy a wonderful dinner prepared for you by the chefs. As you immerse yourself in the peaceful natural scenery of mountains and forests as well as the sound of the waterfall, you will feel calm and have a peaceful night’s sleep.

The next day, you will trek, explore and swim through Hang Tu Lan and Hang Kim to reach To Mo Valley, two spectacular caves. You will have lunch at To Mo campsite before swimming into Hung Ton Cave, at the side of the waterfall. Inside the cave, the group will have to climb up a 10m high ladder with safety harnesses. A short hike leads to the cave entrance. In front of the cave entrance is the beautiful scene of the Hung Ton Valley, a great spot for beautiful photos. From there the group will return to Oxalis Tan Hoa office along the Hung Ton Valley, crossing the Rao Nan River and the peanut corn fields one last time. Back at Tan Hoa office, the group will check in to Rural Homestay in Tan Hoa to shower and relax.

Around 6:00 pm, the group will walk to the porter’s house for dinner and interact with the villagers. You will not only have the opportunity to try some delicious local food but also learn more about the living condition of the people here. After dinner, the group will come back to Rural Homestay for a restful night.

Early in the morning, waking up from your Rural Homestay, there will be a peaceful review of the lives of the villagers, guests can explore Tan Hoa village and enjoy the sunrise over the Tan Hoa paddy fields or corn fields by biking around the village. You can also enjoy breakfast at the Tu Lan Lodge Restaurant.

Adventure enthusiasts can also join the ATV - Squat bike off-road tour to explore Lim forest and Kong's home, for two hours. This is a sporty driving tourism activity that takes you up hills, across streams, and through the beautiful Lim forest and Kong’s tunnel.

Homestay check-out time is 12:00 PM. After lunch, hit the road to Hoi An, with a picturesque stop at Hai Van Pass for some fantastic photo opportunities.

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.