Vietnam Magnificent Nature 12 Days
Itinerary
Embark on a 12-day Vietnam nature and culture tour meticulously designed by local travel experts to provide an immersive, safe, and enriching experience. This professionally guided itinerary takes you through Vietnam’s most spectacular natural wonders and authentic cultural sites, from UNESCO-listed bays and national parks to remote ethnic villages and vibrant cities.
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi & Cultural Introduction
Meals: Dinner | Driver Pick-up
Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport, where our trusted driver welcomes you to the historical capital of Vietnam. Enjoy a private transfer to your hotel in Hanoi, where you can relax before the evening’s activities. Begin your journey with a welcome dinner at a charming colonial building, followed by a traditional Water Puppetry performance, offering a vibrant introduction to Vietnamese folklore, music, and rural life.
Day 2: Immersive Hanoi Local Experience
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch | Guided
Start early with a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and a visit to Ngoc Son Temple. Savor iconic local drinks like Vietnamese iced coffee (Ca phe sua da) or Egg Coffee at a traditional café. Discover the Old Quarter, St. Joseph Cathedral, and historic Hoa Lo Prison. Relish authentic Bun Cha for lunch, then explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university. End your day with a local beer at a bustling Bia Hoi joint and a stroll along the city’s famous train tracks.
Day 3: Transfer to Ba Be National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Guided
Travel north through scenic mountains to Ba Be National Park, a lush UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve. Enjoy photo stops and insights from your guide. Arrive in the late afternoon for a sunset walk by Ba Be Lake. Dinner features local cuisine and an overnight stay at an eco-lodge or guesthouse inside the park.
Day 4: Ba Be Lake to Ban Gioc Waterfall
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Guided
Take a morning boat cruise on Ba Be Lake, visit Puong Cave, and enjoy a guided rainforest walk. After lunch in Cho Ra, drive through Quang Uyen and Trung Khanh, arriving at Ban Gioc Waterfall, one of the most spectacular natural landmarks in Vietnam. Settle in and prepare for the next day’s exploration.
Day 5: Ban Gioc Waterfall & Transfer to Lang Son
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch | Guided
Experience the majesty of Ban Gioc Waterfall up close aboard a bamboo raft. Visit the nearby Nguom Ngao Cave, known for its surreal rock formations. After lunch, transfer to Lang Son, a border city with both Vietnamese and Chinese cultural influences. Evening free to explore local cuisine and night markets.
Day 6: Lang Son to Ha Long Bay via Local Villages
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch | Guided
Visit Tam Thanh Pagoda, then journey through Zao and Tay ethnic villages, gaining cultural insights and supporting sustainable tourism. After lunch in Dinh Lap, drive through Tien Yen en route to Ha Long Bay, one of Vietnam’s top natural attractions.
Day 7: Ha Long Bay & Lan Ha Bay Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Guide on Board
Board a luxury cruise in Ha Long Bay, cruising toward the tranquil Lan Ha Bay. Visit Cat Ba Island, explore Trung Trang Cave, and kayak near Tra Bau. Enjoy sunset views, a seafood dinner, and a comfortable cabin aboard your premium cruise vessel.
Day 8: Viet Hai Village & Ba Trai Dao Islets
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Guide on Board
Join a morning Tai Chi session, then take a day boat to Viet Hai Village. Cycle through rainforests and rice fields, visit a local home, and continue to the Ba Trai Dao islets for swimming and kayaking. Return to the cruise for a relaxing evening.
Day 9: Lan Ha Bay to Ho Chi Minh City
Meals: Brunch | Driver Pick-up in Ha Long, Guide Pick-up in HCMC
Visit Sang Toi (Dark & Bright) Cave by canoe before returning to the pier. Enjoy brunch onboard before flying to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, meet your local guide and transfer to your hotel. Evening free to relax or explore.
Day 10: Nam Cat Tien National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Guided
Drive to Nam Cat Tien National Park, a biodiversity hotspot. After check-in, take a short bike ride through the forest, followed by a jeep safari at dusk for wildlife observation. Overnight at a forest guesthouse.
Day 11: Crocodile Lake Hike & Return to Ho Chi Minh City
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch | Guided
Hike to Crocodile Lake, explore dense jungle trails, and enjoy a quiet boat ride for bird and wildlife watching. After lunch, return to Ho Chi Minh City. Evening at leisure.
Day 12: Departure from Ho Chi Minh City
Meals: Breakfast | Driver Pick-up
Enjoy free time before your private airport transfer. Optional visits include the War Remnants Museum, Ben Thanh Market, or a walking tour of the colonial French district. Depart Vietnam with unforgettable memories of its rich natural and cultural heritage.
Tour Highlights:
- Guided visits to Ba Be Lake, Ban Gioc Waterfall, Phong Nha & Lan Ha Bay
- Cultural immersion in Hanoi, Lang Son, and ethnic minority villages
- 2-night luxury cruise in Ha Long & Lan Ha Bay
- Wildlife experiences in Nam Cat Tien National Park
- Private transfers, domestic flight, and expert local guides throughout
This tour is ideal for eco-conscious travelers seeking an authentic and enriching Vietnam adventure.
Price
The prices for this private or group tour are in US dollars for the group of 02: US $2,413 per person
These prices are valid until March 31, 2025.
Please note that bank transfer fees are not included.
Except peak season: Dec 20, 2024 – Jan 05, 2025 and from Jan 28 – Feb 05, 2025
Inclusions
- Breakfast and accommodation sharing a twin or double room.
- Pick-ups and transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle as specified in the itinerary above
- Return domestic flight tickets: Hanoi – Ho Chi Minh City, including domestic airport taxes.
- Travel by private, air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced, safe driver.
- Day boat and overnight boat cruise as programmed
- The services of experienced English-speaking guides as indicated in the itinerary
- Where necessary, entry fees for all visits as mentioned in the programme.
- Lunches and dinners, as specified, in the best local restaurants, picnics where suitable restaurants are not available.
- VAT and other taxes
Exclusions
- International flight tickets and airport tax.
- Visas
- Dinners, except as specified above.
- Drinks, gratuities and personal expenses.
- Insurance
Hotel List
- Hanoi: MK Premier Boutique (****, boutique style hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter, just a short walk to the legendary Hoan Kiem Lake – Luxury room)
- Ba Be: Park’s Guesthouse and homestay in a local family
- Ban Gioc: Saigon ban Gioc hotel (****, convenient location in Ban Gioc town – Superior room)
- Lang Son: Muong Thanh Hotel (**** one of the best hotel available in Lang Son – Deluxe room)
- Halong: Novotel Halong (**** international hotel in town centre - Standard room)
- Lan Ha Bay: Orchid Trendy cruise (Deluxe quality modern cruise with contemporary design – Deluxe Balcony cabin)
- Ho Chi Minh City: Eden Star Saigon (****, medium rise hotel in the city centre – Deluxe room)
- Nam Cat Tien National Park: Jungle Lodge (***+, well-appointed resort in Nam cat Tien area – Studio River view)
Tour FAQ's
What is included in the Vietnam Magnificent Nature tour package?
The tour includes:
- Carefully selected accommodations (hotels and guesthouses) based on location, comfort, and charm
- All in-country transportation, including domestic flights and private transfers
- Entrance fees to all national parks and attractions mentioned in the itinerary
- A variety of guided activities, such as cave exploration, kayaking, hiking, and boat trips
- Daily meals as specified (Breakfast [B], Lunch [L], Dinner [D])
- Services of a professional, English-speaking guide throughout the journey
This comprehensive package ensures a seamless and enriching Vietnam nature and culture tour experience.
What is not included in the tour package?
The following are excluded from the tour price:
- International flights to/from Vietnam
- Visa fees and application services
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, snacks, drinks beyond those provided)
- Tips for guides and drivers (optional but appreciated)
- Optional excursions or activities not listed in the main itinerary
- Personal trekking equipment or gear (if applicable)
Do I need a visa to travel to Vietnam?
Yes, most nationalities require a visa to enter Vietnam. Depending on your citizenship, you may be eligible for:
- Vietnam e-visa (online application)
- Visa exemption for short stays (up to 15 days for certain countries)
- Visa through Vietnamese embassies or consulates
We recommend checking the latest visa regulations via the official Vietnamese government website or consulting your local embassy.
What type of accommodations can I expect?
You will stay in a mix of:
- Comfortable 3–4-star hotels in major cities and towns
- Locally run guesthouses and eco-lodges in rural or remote areas, chosen for their proximity to nature and cultural authenticity
All accommodations are vetted for cleanliness, safety, and traveler comfort. In some isolated locations, facilities may be basic but provide a more immersive experience.
What are the physical requirements for this tour?
This tour includes moderate physical activity, such as:
- Hiking on uneven terrain
- Walking up stairs and short inclines
- Kayaking or short boat transfers
- Cycling or village treks
Participants should be in good health and reasonable physical condition. We suggest light cardio or walking before the trip to build endurance.
What should I pack for a Vietnam nature tour?
We recommend bringing:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing (for warm and humid climates)
- Sturdy walking or hiking shoes
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection
- Insect repellent
- Any personal medication
- Reusable water bottle
- Camera with extra memory cards
- Small backpack for day trips or hikes
Packing light but smart will enhance your comfort during transfers and excursions.
What kind of transport is used throughout the tour?
Transport is arranged for comfort and convenience, and includes:
- Private vehicles for inter-city travel and sightseeing
- Domestic flights to optimize time across long distances
- Boats and kayaks for lake and river exploration
- Bicycles for short village tours or cultural immersion
All transport options are safe, licensed, and chosen to support smooth logistics during your journey.
Are meals included? Can dietary needs be accommodated?
Yes. Meals are included as outlined in the itinerary:
- Breakfasts daily
- Selected lunches and dinners, often highlighting regional specialties
We accommodate most dietary restrictions (vegetarian, gluten-free, allergies) with advance notice. Please inform us at booking so we can notify restaurants and hosts in each region.
How large are the tour groups?
To ensure a personalized and high-quality experience, group sizes are kept small, typically:
- 10 to 15 participants per departure This allows for better interaction with guides, smoother logistics, and deeper cultural exchange.
Will there be a guide with us throughout the tour?
Absolutely. A professional, English-speaking guide will accompany you for the entire tour.
They are trained in:
- Vietnamese history and culture
- Local flora and fauna
- Ecotourism practices and group safety
Your guide also assists with language barriers, special requests, and in-depth insights at each destination.
📌 Still have questions?
Feel free to reach out to our travel team—we’re happy to provide customized advice or clarifications to help you prepare for your 12-day Vietnam nature and cultural adventure.
Tour Map
Designed by local travel experts with deep knowledge of Vietnam’s geography, culture, and conservation areas, the Vietnam Magnificent Nature Tour is a carefully curated 12-day journey for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure travelers. This itinerary offers authentic, safe, and professionally guided experiences through Vietnam’s most iconic and off-the-beaten-path natural landscapes.
Your adventure begins in the capital city of Hanoi, where our experienced team greets you upon arrival and introduces you to Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. From Hanoi, you’ll venture to the serene waters of Ba Be Lake, one of the largest natural freshwater lakes in Vietnam. With the guidance of certified local guides, you’ll kayak across calm waters framed by jungle-clad limestone cliffs and ancient forests — a perfect introduction to the region’s pristine beauty.
Next, witness the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall, one of the most impressive in Asia, located on the border with China. Our guides, trained in eco-tourism and cultural heritage, will provide insight into the geological significance and local ethnic cultures that inhabit the surrounding areas.
The journey continues to Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Accompanied by licensed cave experts and safety-certified guides, you’ll explore some of the largest cave systems in the world, where underground rivers and prehistoric formations reveal millions of years of natural history.
In the Central Highlands, you’ll explore Da Lat’s pine forests, waterfalls, and ethnic minority villages, with opportunities to engage with local communities through responsible cultural exchange programs coordinated by community partners. Every aspect of this segment is built to support sustainable tourism and preserve cultural identity.
The final leg of the tour brings you to the Mekong Delta, guided by regional specialists who will take you through winding waterways and floating markets. You’ll interact with local farmers and artisans, sampling tropical fruits fresh from their source while learning about traditional lifestyles along Vietnam’s most important river system.
Throughout the trip, your comfort and safety are prioritized with hand-picked accommodations, private transfers, and English-speaking licensed guides. All activities follow strict safety protocols and sustainable travel principles, ensuring a meaningful, low-impact experience.
This 12-day Vietnam eco-adventure is more than a sightseeing tour — it’s a chance to connect deeply with nature, support local communities, and gain a richer understanding of Vietnam’s natural and cultural heritage, delivered with professionalism and care.
Be the first to review “Vietnam Magnificent Nature 12 Days”
Related products
Explore Vietnamese Craftsmanship: A Cultural Journey from Sapa to Bat Trang Embark on a richly immersive cultural journey that invites you to connect deeply with the artisanal soul of Vietnam. Over the course of this unforgettable experience, you’ll not only observe but actively engage in the traditional crafts that have shaped generations of ethnic minority...
✨ Tour Overview: 14-Day Vietnam Culinary & Cultural Tour – Taste, Learn & Explore Embark on an unforgettable 14-day journey across Vietnam that blends rich cultural heritage with world-renowned cuisine. From the charming chaos of Hanoi’s Old Quarter to the peaceful waters of the Mekong Delta, this immersive itinerary is designed for travellers who want...
✨ Tour Overview: 15-Day Vietnam Family Adventure – Culture, Nature & Island Escape Embark on a captivating 15-day journey across Vietnam, designed for families and culture-loving travellers seeking a balanced blend of authentic local experiences, natural wonders, and moments of relaxation. From the historic charm of Hanoi’s Old Quarter to the serene mountain landscapes of...
✨ Luxury Vietnam Honeymoon – 14 Days of Romance, Culture & Serenity Embark on an unforgettable 14-day honeymoon across Vietnam, crafted for couples seeking romance, cultural depth, and refined luxury. From the timeless charm of Hanoi’s Old Quarter to the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, the tranquil mountains of Mai Chau to the untouched...
Error: Contact form not found.
Error: Contact form not found.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.