Vietnam Nature Trails 9 Days

This meticulously planned 9-day tour of Vietnam offers an immersive exploration of its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural landscapes. Beginning with your arrival in the historic capital of Hanoi, the tour invites you to experience the city’s vibrant life from the unique perspective of a motorbike, visiting significant cultural sites like the ancient Temple of Literature and the serene Tran Quoc Pagoda. Alternatively, a more relaxed car tour is available for those who prefer not to travel by motorbike.

The adventure continues with a journey to the stunning Pu Luong Nature Reserve, where you can connect with local communities and enjoy the lush, scenic environment. The tour includes memorable treks through terraced rice fields and visits to remote villages, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the ethnic communities.

As the journey progresses, you’ll travel southward to the dynamic Ho Chi Minh City and then to the diverse ecosystems of Nam Cat Tien National Park. Here, you will engage with Vietnam’s wildlife, including an early morning excursion to witness the gibbons at sunrise.

The tour is designed not only to showcase Vietnam’s spectacular geography—from the bustling cities to the tranquil highlands—but also to provide deep cultural interactions and the enjoyment of serene landscapes. With options for customizing your travel through different modes of transport and activities, this tour promises a comprehensive and enriching Vietnamese travel experience. Whether you’re trekking through the dense forests of Nam Cat Tien or navigating the historic streets of Hanoi, this tour offers a profound connection to the places and people of Vietnam.

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival (GP)

Your Vietnamese adventure begins as you land at Noi Bai airport, Hanoi. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted by our representative and chauffeured to your hotel. After checking in, you’ll have the remainder of the day to relax or start exploring the bustling streets of Hanoi at your leisure.

Day 2: Hanoi City Tour on a Motorbike (B, L, G)

The day begins with an exhilarating motorbike tour through the bustling streets of Hanoi, allowing you to feel the pulse of the city up close. Your first stop is the Temple of Literature, an ancient site of learning and a well-preserved example of Vietnamese architecture. Nearby, the Fine Arts Museum offers a glimpse into the country’s artistic heritage with a range of fascinating exhibits. Next, you’ll experience tranquility at Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hanoi, located beside the peaceful West Lake.

The afternoon is dedicated to exploring the Old Quarter’s maze of streets and alleys. This ‘Street Life’ experience includes tasting local street food specialties like Pho, Bun Cha, and Banh Cuon.

Next is the Long Bien Bridge. This majestic marvel, with over a century of stories to tell, spans the Red River, creating a whimsical connection between the Hoan Kiem and Long Bien districts. Beneath its arches, a secret world awaits—locals have ingeniously transformed the space into a floating community, adding an extra layer of charm to this already fascinating landmark.

The day concludes with a mesmerizing Water Puppetry show, a traditional art form originating from northern Vietnam’s Red River Delta. Optionally, if you prefer not to ride on a motorbike, a private car tour can be arranged to visit these iconic sights in comfort.

Day 3: Hanoi to Pu Luong (B, L, D, G)

Today, embark on a scenic 4.5-hour drive to Pu Luong Nature Reserve, navigating a breathtaking mountain pass that offers panoramic views of the entire valley. Upon arrival, enjoy a delicious lunch at your accommodation, followed by some free time to explore the retreat’s captivating vistas and tranquil surroundings.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in local village life. Interact with the hilltop residents, observe daily routines, and stroll through the working farmland and rice fields, gaining insight into the local culture. Return to the retreat for a delightful dinner and an overnight stay in Pu Luong.

Nestled at an altitude of 1700 meters, Pu Luong is a serene and picturesque town surrounded by small villages and terraced fields. Known for its cool climate and abundant mountain water, it stands in contrast to Sapa and Ha Giang, boasting two harvest seasons each year. The verdant mountains and vibrant local lifestyle make this area unique. Unlike Sapa, Pu Luong remains unspoiled by mass tourism, with no beggars or child vendors. The region is home to numerous excellent resorts, particularly popular during the golden rice field seasons of May-June and September-October.

Day 4: Trekking in Pu Luong (B, L, D, G)

Start your day early with a descent into the stunning valley facing the Retreat, where you’ll walk among cascading rice terraces. Trek 6 kilometers along narrow paths, gradually revealing a picturesque village at the base of a towering mountain.

Continue to Kho Muong in the heart of the valley, engage with locals, and visit the historic “Bat Cave.” Enjoy lunch at a traditional stilt house before trekking 7 kilometres through the jungle, discovering diverse flora and fauna.

The winding road through magnificent mountains leads to Uoi village in the forest. Navigate through roads, farmland, villages, and wild fields, savouring the ever-changing scenery. Return to Pu Luong Retreat for dinner and an overnight stay.

Start time: 09:00
Duration: 8 hours
Trekking distance: 13 km
Grade: Moderate

Day 5: Pu Luong to Hanoi (B, L, G)

This morning, drive through several villages to visit a local market, where you’ll observe the bustling activities of the local people. Continue your journey to a small town for lunch, passing by the remarkable water wheels of the Muong people along the way.

After lunch, cross the Ma River by ferry and take a short 1-kilometer walk to Cam Thuy’s ‘Sacred Fish Stream’. Here, you can see and even paddle among the obliging fish in the shallow stream.

Finally, head back to Hanoi, arriving in the late afternoon. The rest of the day and evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Day 6: Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City to Nam Cat Tien (B, D, DP, GP in Ho Chi Minh)

Enjoy a free morning until your guide and driver arrive to take you to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, a private car will transport you to Nam Cat Tien National Park. Around mid-day, cross the Dong Nai River by ferry to enter the park. Located 150 km (about a 4-hour drive) from Ho Chi Minh City, this park spans 720 km² and safeguards one of Vietnam’s largest remaining areas of lowland tropical rainforests. Check into your lodge in Nam Cat Tien.

Day 7: Exploring Nam Cat Tien National Park (B, L, D, G)

Today, embark on an exhilarating full-day tour to Crocodile Lake. The adventure begins with a 5-kilometre trek through the enchanting semi-evergreen forest, a haven for bird enthusiasts. Keep your eyes peeled for the near-endemic Germain’s Peacock-pheasant, as well as the elusive Blue-rumped and Bar-bellied pittas. If you’re an early riser, you might even spot the stunning Siamese Fireback on the drive to the Crocodile Lake trailhead.

Cat Tien is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to the Scaly-breasted Partridge, Woolly-necked Stork, Lesser Adjutant, and an impressive variety of woodpeckers. You’ll also encounter three species of broadbill and the Indochinese-endemic Grey-faced Tit-Babbler. A packed lunch will be provided to keep you energized throughout your adventure.

Return to your lodge for a well-deserved dinner and a peaceful night in Nam Cat Tien.

Day 8: Gibbon Dawn Chorus and Return to Ho Chi Minh City (B, L, G)

Rise early for a guided walk to experience the enchanting sounds of gibbons at sunrise. After breakfast, depart for Ho Chi Minh City, where you’ll have the evening free to explore or relax.

Day 9: Departure from Ho Chi Minh City (B, DP)

Spend your last moments savoring the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City before your airport transfer. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and rich memories you’ve gathered during your stay.

Visa Information:

For seamless entry into Vietnam, choose from our two hassle-free visa service options. Opt for a Visa in Advance or a Visa on Arrival, depending on your preference and convenience. Alternatively, handle your visa application independently by contacting your local Vietnamese Embassy.

This comprehensive tour combines historical insights, cultural immersion, and natural wonders, tailored to provide an in-depth exploration of Vietnam’s heritage and landscapes.

Key

B = Breakfast

L = Lunch

D = Dinner

G = Guide

GP = Guide pick-up

DP = Driver pick-up

Price

The prices for this private tour are per person in US dollars:

These prices are valid until March 31, 2025. Please note that bank transfer fees are not included.

Number in group

3 – 4

5 – 8

9 – 12

Supplement for single hotel room occupancy*

Superior

(four stars)

1,670

1,488

1,270

1,181

434

Note:
Price is not valid for the Peak season, please contact us again for price checking and availability

Peak season: Dec 20^th, 2024- Jan 10, 2025, and TET (Jan 26 – Feb 10, 2025)

* ‘Single room occupancy’ refers to the accommodation element of the programme only, and applies to someone who is travelling with others but requires an additional room for him or herself. Single traveller prices are available on request.

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 (Please note: pick-ups will be by a guide and driver or, where a guide is not necessary, a driver only. All unaccompanied drivers will be briefed in advance, and will carry a mobile phone to ensure smooth transfer arrangements)
Domestic flight tickets: Hanoi – Ho Chi Minh City, including domestic airport taxes.
Travel in an appropriate private air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced safe driver.
Where necessary, entry fees for all visits as mentioned in the programme.
Jeep transfer in the Nam Cat Tien National Park
Boat cruises and rowing boat as programme.
The use of bicycles
The services of one of the park’s English-speaking guides as indicated in the itinerary
Lunches and dinners (as specified in the itinerary) in the best local restaurants, or picnics where no suitable restaurant is available, and in the park’s canteens
VAT and other taxes

Exclusions

International flight tickets and airport tax
Visas
Lunches and dinners, except as specified above
Drinks, gratuities and personal expenses
Camera fees (if any)
Insurance
Surcharges for peak season (if any)
Compulsory Christmas Eve’s dinner and Gala dinner (if any)

Hotel List

Hanoi: MK Premier Boutique Hotel (a Vietnamese style hotel, located in the Hanoi Old quarter – Luxury City View room)
Pu Luong: Pu Luong Retreat (bungalows and villas with stunning panoramic view to the terrace rice fields, valleys and superb mountains…all are at your disposal to discover – Deluxe New Wing)
Nam Cat Tien National Park: Jungle Lodge (***+, well-appointed resort in Nam cat Tien area – Studio River view)
Ho Chi Minh City: EdenStar Saigon hotel (**** city centre location, nicerooftop swimming pool – Premium Deluxe room)

Please note that Vietnam hotels do not recognise provisional reservations, so specific hotels cannot be guaranteed until you have booked your chosen tour. As many of the better hotels are often full during the October to April peak season, early booking is advisable.

Tour FAQ's

1. What are the visa requirements for this tour? Visas are required for most foreigners entering Vietnam. We offer a free visa service for our clients, which can be arranged in advance or upon arrival. The visa stamp fee varies between US$45 and US$90, depending on your nationality and entry point.

2. What is the best season to undertake this tour? Vietnam can be visited year-round, but the best time for this tour is from October to April when the weather is typically cooler and dryer, especially in northern regions like Hanoi and Pu Luong.

3. What types of accommodations are provided? Accommodations vary from luxurious hotels in major cities to charming homestays in rural areas like Pu Luong. All accommodations are selected to provide a comfortable and authentic experience, reflecting the local character and hospitality.

4. How physically demanding are the activities? The tour includes various activities such as city tours on motorbike and trekking in Pu Luong. The trekking can be moderately challenging, especially in hilly areas. However, alternatives such as car tours are available for those preferring less physically demanding options.

5. What should I pack? Pack light and bring comfortable clothing suitable for a tropical climate. Essentials include a good pair of walking shoes, rain gear, sun protection, and any personal medication. Don’t forget your camera and an extra battery to capture the stunning scenery!

6. Is this tour suitable for children or elderly guests? The tour is designed to cater to guests of all ages. Specific needs can be accommodated, and activities can be adjusted to suit the comfort and safety of children and elderly travelers.

7. Are meals included? Most meals are included as specified in the itinerary (B for breakfast, L for lunch, D for dinner). We focus on providing local cuisine experiences, and dietary restrictions can be accommodated with prior notice.

8. What are the safety measures for the motorbike tours? Safety is a priority, and all motorbike riders are experienced and trained. Helmets are provided and must be worn at all times during the motorbike tours.

9. Can I extend my stay or customize the tour? Yes, we offer flexible itineraries that can be customized according to your interests and schedule. Additional nights and destinations can be added to enrich your experience.

10. What are the emergency protocols? All tour guides are equipped with mobile phones, and vehicles are well-maintained to ensure reliability. In case of emergency, local contacts and healthcare facilities will be readily accessible.

This FAQ is designed to address common queries and help you prepare for an unforgettable adventure across Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures.