VIETNAM
Vietnam Experience Nature
14 Days / 13 Nights
Highlights
- Trek through ancient forests, experience a thrilling night safari and witness stunning
sunsets over Crocodile Lake. - Sail through the iconic limestone karsts, explore hidden caves, and enjoy freshly
served seafood aboard a traditional junk boat. - Discover diverse flora and fauna, visit ancient trees, and learn about conservation
efforts in Vietnam’s oldest national park. - Explore historic landmarks, bustling markets, and imperial citadels, and savor
traditional royal court dinners for a deep dive into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.
Vietnam Experience Nature
Day 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City
Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, Vietnam's bustling metropolis. Upon your arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, you'll be met and transferred to your hotel. Please note that early check-in is not included, so it's recommended that your flight arrives before noon for the half-day afternoon tour. After settling in, embark on a brief sightseeing tour of the city. Explore iconic landmarks such as the former Presidential Palace, the historic Notre Dame Cathedral (currently undergoing renovation until 2019), the charming Old Saigon Post Office, Dong Khoi Street, the majestic Opera House, City Hall, and the fascinating History Museum.
Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City - Cat Tien National Park
Today, embark on a journey to Nam Cat Tien National Park, located approximately 150 km away, which will take about 3 hours. Upon arrival, dive into a wildlife experience like no other. In the afternoon, set out on a captivating two-hour trek through the Reserved Core Area, where you'll encounter ancient trees dating back hundreds of years. Return to the park's center for a delicious dinner. As night falls, embark on an exhilarating two-hour night safari, cruising through the jungle in a jeep. Keep your eyes peeled, as you may be fortunate enough to hear the calls of rhinoceros or catch a glimpse of wild animals quenching their thirst at nearby watering holes.
Day 3: Exploring Cat Tien National Park
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before venturing out to explore more of Cat Tien National Park. Visit Thac Troi, also known as Heaven Waterfall, and the enchanting Bang Lang forest. Check out of the guesthouse at the Headquarters area and embark on a 10 km drive, followed by a 5 km trek to visit the Crocodile Swamp. Enjoy a serene boat ride on Crocodile Lake, where you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the sunset and sunrise. Conclude the day with a delightful dinner.
Day 4: Return to Ho Chi Minh City
Bid farewell to the natural wonders of Cat Tien National Park as you embark on a 5 km walk back to the Crocodile Lake T-junction. From there, journey back to the park's Headquarters for lunch. Check out of the park and begin your journey back to Ho Chi Minh City. After lunch, the remainder of the day is yours to explore the vibrant city at your leisure.
Day 5: Ho Chi Minh City - Hue
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Hue. Upon arrival, you'll be picked up and transferred to your accommodation. In the afternoon, embark on a tour of Hue's Imperial Citadel, a historic complex dating back to 1804, followed by a visit to Dong Ba Market, renowned for its traditional conical hats. Enjoy some free time to explore the city before indulging in a typical royal court dinner accompanied by ancient dancing and music in the evening.
Day 6: Hue - Hoi An via Danang
After breakfast, check out and visit the tomb of Tu Duc before departing for Hoi An. En route, traverse the picturesque Hai Van Pass, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding landscapes. Arrive in Hoi An and settle in for the night.
Day 7: Exploring Hoi An before Departing for Hanoi
Embark on a captivating walking tour of Hoi An, starting at the Culture and History Museum to delve into the town's rich heritage. Stroll through the lively market, wander along the main street to the Fujien Chinese Assembly Hall, marvel at the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, and visit a historic old house. After the tour, transfer to the airport for a short flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your accommodation for the night.
Day 8: Exploring Hai Phong and Cat Ba Island
Begin your day with a scenic drive to Hai Phong via a newly constructed road, offering glimpses of Vietnam's vibrant countryside. Upon arrival, enjoy a delectable lunch en route before boarding a speed hydrofoil to Cat Ba Island, a gem nestled in the emerald waters of Halong Bay. Once on Cat Ba, embark on a picturesque trek to the island's interior, where breathtaking views of unspoiled nature await in Cat Ba National Park.
Day 9: Cruising Halong Bay
Set sail on a mesmerizing journey through the legendary Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ethereal beauty. Cruise amidst towering limestone formations and hidden grottoes, soaking in the enchanting scenery. Indulge in freshly served seafood for lunch and dinner aboard the junk, and perhaps opt for an evening kayak ride amidst phosphorescent waters.
Day 10: Exploring Cuc Phuong National Park
Wake up to the serenity of Halong Bay before continuing your adventure to Cuc Phuong National Park, a haven of biodiversity nestled in the Red River Delta. Traverse captivating countryside landscapes as you journey to the park, home to a plethora of flora and fauna. Upon arrival, embark on an exploration of the park's enchanting caves and tranquil trails, immersing yourself in the wonders of nature.
Day 11: Trekking in Cuc Phuong National Park
Accompanied by a knowledgeable park guide, embark on a full-day trek through the verdant expanses of Cuc Phuong National Park. Encounter towering trees, ancient caves, and rare wildlife as you traverse scenic trails, including a visit to the majestic 1,000-year-old tree and the imposing Dang tree. Enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch amidst the natural splendor before returning to your accommodation for the night.
Day 12: Immersion in Nature and Conservation
Dive deeper into the natural wonders of Cuc Phuong National Park with visits to the park museum, botanical garden, and the endangered primate rescue center. Gain insight into conservation efforts and the park's diverse ecosystem through engaging seminars and interactive exhibits. In the afternoon, bid farewell to the park as you journey back to Hanoi, where you'll spend the night.
Day 13: Discovering Hanoi's Cultural Gems
Explore the vibrant streets and cultural landmarks of Hanoi, Vietnam's capital city, on a captivating sightseeing tour. Visit the Temple of Literature, a revered symbol of Vietnamese education and heritage, and delve into the country's rich ethnological tapestry at the Ethnology Museum. Navigate the bustling lanes of the old quarter on a pedicab ride, soaking in the sights and sounds of this historic district. Enjoy an afternoon of leisure to explore Hanoi at your own pace before retiring for the night.
Day 14: Departure from Hanoi
Savor your final moments in Hanoi with a morning of shopping for traditional Vietnamese handicrafts and souvenirs, or simply relax and unwind before your departure. Bid farewell to this captivating city as you transfer to the airport for your onward journey, filled with cherished memories of your Vietnamese adventure.
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Tour Extensions
pre-tour or post-tour extensions are available, which would include accommodation and private transfers, please speak to Focus Asia travel consultant for further details.