Laos to Vietnam
Take an unforgettable journey through the beautiful landscapes and captivating cities of Laos and Vietnam. From Vientiane to Ho Chi Minh City, visit revered Buddhist temples and ornate palaces, explore mystical caves and floating markets, cruise Halong Bay and the Mekong and meet a kaleidoscope of people along the way.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Vientiane
Day 1 Vientiane
Sunday. Welcome to Laos! Arrival transfer from Vientiane airport to our hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore at leisure.
Day 2 Vientiane city tour
Day 2 Vientiane city tour
After breakfast we explore the charming capital of Laos on a city tour. Highlights include Wat Si Saket, the former royal temple of Haw Pha Kaeo, Pha That Luang monument and Buddha Park with its incredible array of Hindu and Buddhist sculptures. We also visit the COPE Centre, a charity working with victims of unexploded bombs and mines. End the day with a spectacular sunset dinner besides the Mekong River.
Day 3 Vang Vieng
Day 3 Vang Vieng
Vientiane – Vang Vieng. We leave the capital early and journey north through lush countryside to Vang Vieng, peaceful village of Vang Vieng, situated on a curve of the Nam Song River. In the afternoon, we cross the Nam Song River and venture to the other side, traversing a picturesque, unpaved route that winds through the Vang Vieng countryside, passing small villages and rice fields. This journey leads us to the blue lagoon and the Tham Pou Kham cave. The striking landscape, with its towering karst rock formations between Vang Vieng and the blue lagoon, is a sight to behold and makes the trip truly worthwhile. Inside the cave, we find a maze of chambers, galleries, and crevices adorned with stalagmites and stalactites, and the air inside is cool and damp. Following our exploration of the cave, we descend to the Blue Lagoon, where you can relax, swim, or simply unwind in the refreshing waters.
Day 4 Tham Jang Cave, Ban Huai Ngai village
Day 4 Tham Jang Cave, Ban Huai Ngai village
Vang Vieng – Luang Prabang. We explore the famous caves of Tham Jang this morning, where local people hid during a Chinese invasion in the early 19th Century. Then we get a taste of local life at Ban Huai Ngai village before travelling north to enchanting Luang Prabang.
Day 5 Luang Prabang
Day 5 Luang Prabang
Consider rising early this morning to watch the daily ritual of saffron-clad monks and their procession down the streets of Luang Prabang, collecting alms from the residents. Afterwards we hop on a vintage tuk-tuk to travel in style around the old quarter of Luang Prabang. Our first stop on this unique sightseeing tour is the bustling Morning Market where we'll learn about local products. Then we stop at the magnificent Wat Xiengthong temple to admire its classical Laotian architecture. We end our morning with a visit to the former Royal Palace, which is now a national museum.
This afternoon we visit ethnic minority villages en route to the beautiful Khouangsi waterfall. Meet the locals and gain a fascinating insight into the local culture. We then drive to the beautiful Khouangsi Waterfall where you can splash around in the turquoise pools or walk along the forest trails.
Days 6-7 Living Land Farm & Hanoi
Days 6-7 Living Land Farm & Hanoi
Luang Prabang - Hanoi (Vietnam). On day 6 we head into the idyllic countryside to visit the Living Land Farm for a fun and hands on half day farming experience. Learn how rice is planted and cultivated in the rice paddy and have a go at ploughing the rice paddy with a water buffalo. Then we enjoy a tasty lunch of traditional Lao dishes at the farm's Rice House, while soaking up the spectacular views of rice terraces and mountains beyond.
The afternoon is free for you to independently explore more of Luang Prabang. Consider visiting the sobering UXO Centre to learn more about the Second Indochina War, take in more of the city's beautiful temples or head to the Ock Pop Tock weaving centre set in beautiful tropical gardens. In the evening we board a flight to Hanoi.
Day 7 is free for you to explore Vietnam's capital at leisure. Why not get off the beaten track and explore Hanoi on our optional Back Streets of Hanoi add-on? Discover the quaint districts of Cho Buoi, Hoang Hoa Tham and Vinh Phuc and ride pillion on taxi-motorbikes through a maze of narrow streets and along the shore of beautiful Ho Tay Lake.
Day 8 Halong Bay
Day 8 Halong Bay
Hanoi – Halong Bay. After breakfast we enjoy an exhilarating cyclo (rickshaw) ride around the maze of streets in Hanoi's French Quarter, taking in highlights such as the Opera house and Ly Thai To Park. After the cyclo ride we transfer to heavenly Halong Bay, the jewel in Vietnam's scenic crown. We explore the pristine jade waters, studded with karst islands, aboard a traditional junk boat. Our cruise starts with a tasty lunch onboard, soaking up the views.
This afternoon we visit Trinh Nu Cave, one of the finest caves in Halong Bay, covering an area of 2,000m² with a stunning array of stalactites and stalagmites. There's also the opportunity to go kayaking and enjoy a refreshing swim. Later this evening back on board, watch a Vietnamese cooking demonstration held on the sundeck before settling down for a sumptuous seafood dinner.
Day 9 Floating villages and Hanoi Old Quarter
Day 9 Floating villages and Hanoi Old Quarter
Halong Bay - Hanoi - Hue. Early birds can start the day with a relaxing Tai Chi class on the sundeck or a traditional massage. Before heading back to port this morning, we explore the beautiful Sung Sot cave (Surprise Grotto), which is 10,000m² and consists of two major chambers which are spectacular and spacious enough to hold thousands of people.
Arriving back into Hanoi mid-afternoon we enjoy a leisurely walk around the ‘36 streets of the old quarter’, named after the numerous guilds that once set up shop on a particular street, from silk tailors to traditional medicine shops.
Later this evening there's a chance to freshen up before boarding the train (4 berth sleeper cabin, basic standard) on the ‘Reunification Express’ railway line to Hue. An option to fly from Hanoi to Hue is also available.
Day 10 Imperial Hue
Day 10 Imperial Hue
Arriving into Hue we embark on a guided sightseeing tour of the former capital of the 19th-century Nguyen Empire. Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, home to the oldest monastery in the city. The seven-tiered pagoda has become a well known symbol for Hue. Within the walled citadel is the Imperial Purple Palace, an exact copy of the Forbidden City in Beijing, with its impressive ramparts, moats and imperial palaces.
In the countryside lies the Royal Tombs of the Nguyen kings and here we’ll see the elaborate mausoleum of Emperor Tu Duc. As the sun sets take an optional cruise in a longboat along the Perfume River, beautifully illuminated at night. Alternatively, enjoy some retail therapy at Dong Ba Market.
Day 11 Road of the Ocean Clouds
Day 11 Road of the Ocean Clouds
Hue - Road of the Ocean Clouds - Hoi An. Today we take a drive along the scenic Hai Van Pass (Road of the Ocean Clouds), which offers magnificent views of beaches to one side and lush hills to the other. En route we stop for a walk along China beach, featured in Francis Ford Coppola’s movie ‘Apocalypse Now’. Perhaps enjoy a refreshing swim inthe sea before we continue our journey along the coast road to Hoi An.
The charming, old-world trading port of Hoi An with its cobbled streets, traditional homes and tiny shop houses is a perfect place to lose yourself in a bygone era. Boutique restaurants, hip cafes along the waterfront, delightful craft shops and artisans including some of Asia’s best bespoke tailors (whose services come at a nominal price), can be found here.
On a short walking tour of the enchanting historical city, we’ll visit the Chua Ong Pagoda, Chinese Assembly Hall, 200-year-old Tam Ky house and the famous 400 year-old Japanese Covered Bridge.
During your stay in Hoi An, we offer a unique optional Hoi An Street Eats add-on, which explores the city’s most popular local haunts. Cruise the city the way the locals do, by vintage Vespa and enjoy lots of tasty Vietnamese Cuisine. Book early with your reservation consultant, as numbers are limited.
Day 12 Tra Que village
Day 12 Tra Que village
A leisurely bicycle ride into the countryside leads us to Tra Que village this morning (we can arrange alternative transportation at no extra cost for those who don't wish to cycle). Here we discover age old farming practices and learn about traditional medicine. It’s a fun, hands on experience, where we don conical hats and assist with tending the fields. Then we'll enjoy an entertaining cooking demonstration and help to cook a tasty lunch.
Day 13 Hoi An - at leisure
Day 13 Hoi An - at leisure
Today is free for you to relax or further explore. You may wish to take a relaxing rowboat journey along the river or spend the day lazing by the beach. Alternatively you can opt to take an excursion to the UNESCO-listed My Son sanctuary or enjoy a day trip to the Ba Na Hills, where you can ride the second longest cable car in the world, explore the resort and walk along the striking Golden Bridge (book and pay locally).
Day 14 Crusing the Mekong
Day 14 Crusing the Mekong
Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City. We catch an early morning flight to Ho Chi Minh City today and drive to the Mekong Delta. Often referred to as the ‘rice bowl’ of Vietnam, the fertile Mekong Delta is famous for its abundant harvests of tropical fruits, flowers and rice. Boarding our traditional sampan, we cruise along the maze of canals from Cai Be to Can Tho. Stop to visit local cottage industries as we go, then enjoy lunch in a traditional wooden home on Dong Hoa Hiep Island.
Day 15 Mekong & Ho Chi Minh City
Day 15 Mekong & Ho Chi Minh City
Can Tho - Ho Chi Minh City. Early today we visit the colourful Cai Rang floating market and drive to Ho Chi Minh City. Once called the Pearl of the Orient, modern Ho Chi Minh City is a thriving metropolis on the move. Sleek sky scrapers, gourmet restaurants, designer malls and swanky bars and spas are scattered between ancient pagodas, colonial era landmarks and lively street markets. On our walking tour of Ho Chi Minh City we'll see the Notre Dame Cathedral (exterior) and the Old Post office. We also visit the sobering War Remnants Museum before this evening is at leisure.
Day 16 Ho Chi Minh City
Day 16 Ho Chi Minh City
Monday. Today offers free time in Ho Chi Minh City until your departure transfer to the airport. Perhaps opt to shop for souvenirs at Ben Thanh Market or visit the grand Independence Palace, with its secret bunker and military command centre beneath.
If extending your stay consider joining us on a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Here you can go underground to explore the vast network of tunnels and hideouts used by Viet Cong guerrilla fighters, see booby traps, trap doors or test your skill with an AK 47 at the firing range.
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Prices & Dates
Hotels
Located in Vientiane, close to Laos National Museum, Eastin Hotel Vientiane offers a range of amenities including an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, and a well-equipped fitness centre. The hotel features a garden, a restaurant, a terrace, and a bar where guests can unwind. Each guest room includes a seating area, air conditioning, a desk, and a flat-screen TV, with select rooms offering a balcony. A fridge is also provided in the rooms. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast every morning. The 24-hour front desk, staffed with English and Lao speakers, is available to assist with any needs.
Nestled on the banks of the Nam Song River, the Vasana Vang Vieng Hotel is conveniently located close to the centre of town and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Guest rooms are clean and comfortable with complimentary wifi and modern amenities, with a taste of Laos cultural design. Why not sit back and relax in the pool overlooking the river after a day of sightseeing.
Set just outside the main town of Luang Prabang, the Santi Resort and Spa is a modern property set in manicured gardens. Guest rooms are set on two levels and are spacious with excellent amenities. Meals are served in the main restaurant and the outdoor pool is perfect for a cooling afternoon dip. If you need to get into town then take advantage of the free shuttle service that runs nearly every hour. Located on the outskirts of Luang Prabang.
Set in the tranquil French Quarter of Hanoi, La Casa Hotel offers a comfortable stay in Vietnam’s bustling capital. Each guestroom features free high-speed WiFi and individually controlled air conditioning, alongside the other amenities you’d expect of a modern hotel. Guests can enjoy Asian cuisine in the on-site restaurant as well as a range of beverages in the bar. The gym boasts fantastic views over the city, however, if you’re looking to unwind, you can take a dip in the fountain swimming pool or head to the hotel's spa center.
This ambient, boutique hotel combines traditional appeal with modern pleasures. Rooms are furnished in a contemporary fashion with an array of amenities for added comfort. Its restaurant provides a great variety of Vietnamese cuisine and you are welcome to enjoy cocktails and live music in the Jazz Bar or relax in the hotel's health spa.
This premier cruise boat offers 18 well appointed cabins with en suite amenities. Cabins are contemporary in design, whilst the finer touches have a distinct oriental influence. All cabins feature large windows creating a bright and airy atmosphere as well as scenic views. Facilities and services onboard include a dining room and bar, a sunbathing area on-deck, masseur and small library.
A tradition hand crafted boat, the Syrena Junk Boat offers superb en suite air conditioned cabins with comfortable interiors and balconies. The on board Lotus Restaurant serves up a delicious array of Vietnamese and International cuisine. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the public areas. Swimming, kayaking and tai chi are all offered on board and movie nights are also very popular.
Situated in the heart of the former imperial capital, ÊMM Hotel is the perfect base from which to explore Hue’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed sights. Guestrooms are spacious and complete with modern amenities. The hotel's imperial jade and royal purple colour scheme was inspired by ancient Hue itself. Guests can take advantage of the mini-gym, pool-side bar and reading area. Enjoy delicious Vietnamese and international cuisine in the onsite contemporary restaurant.
Just a 5 minute walk from the Ho Chi Minh museum, the Mondial Hotel is a contemporary hotel with excellent amenities. Guest rooms benefit from spacious interiors, comfortable beds and lots of mod-cons. There is complimentary Wi-Fi for guests, an outdoor pool and onsite spa - perfect for a re laxing massage. As well as the delicious Huong Xuan Restaurant there is also the Lobby Lounge - great for cocktails before dinner!
Situated right on the banks of the Thu Bon River, this upscale hotel is just a 10-minute walk from the ancient town of Hoi An. Combining Vietnamese tradition with modern facilities, its guestrooms are set in coconut tree-shaded gardens beside the water. They’re well-equipped, with free WiFi and air conditioning, as well as private balconies. The hotel also offers a riverside restaurant, serving local specialties and western dishes on the outdoor terrace. This hotel’s highlight, however, is its pool and fabulous swim up bar, which is the perfect place to enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail.
Ideally located less than 200 metres from Hoi An's Old Quarter, this beautiful hotel features a mix of French colonial and traditional Vietnamese architecture. There's an outdoor swimming pool and a serene private garden to unwind in. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast and other meals in the onsite restaurant and drinks at the bar. There is also free Wi-Fi throughout the property. Room are colourfully and tastefully decorated, with minibars, fridges, TV and ensuite bathrooms.
Situated along the Hau River and just a short 2-minute stroll from the riverside, TTC Hotel - Can Tho boasts a central location in Can Tho. This 10-story hotel provides captivating panoramic views of both the city and the river and offers a wide range of facilities including an outdoor pool, spa, casino and nightclub. Comfort is guaranteed in the spacious, well equipped rooms and complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout. You can savour delectable Asian and Western cuisine at the in-house TTC restaurant and enjoy scenic views of the river at The Alfresco Cafe.
This attractive, colonial-style resort is tastefully decorated with well-appointed rooms and a wide range of facilities including a spa, tennis courts, open-air bar, restaurant and a gym. The hotel also offers sunrise and sunset cruises to the floating markets aboard the Lady Hau junk.
Centrally located, yet on a peaceful, tree-lined street, you will find the Muong Thanh Centre. Only a ten-minute walk from top attractions such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, Opera House and Ben Thanh Market, this hotel is a great base for exploring the famous sights of the city. Its guest rooms boast sophisticated designs and panoramic views. Warm and friendly, the Muong Thanh Centre also features a spa and swimming pool for you to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
The 16-storey, Saigon River-facing Bay Hotel is located just a couple of streets away from the Notre Dame Basilica and Independence Palace in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Rooms offer a complimentary Wi-Fi connection and a complimentary minibar, which is replenished daily. Rooms are bright and contemporary, with floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuite bathroom, TV and safe. The hotel restaurant serves a variety of Asian cuisine and there is a daily buffet breakfast. The rooftop pool and bar offers incredible views over the city.
Tour Reviews
After been in over 35 countries this one was one of the best and we both put it down to our guide he was great he was knowledgeable punctual funny and very calm he took us on one of the best tours of Hanoi nothing was a problem he was very professional
Very professional guide and driver - both went out of their way to help. Nice clean vehicle, safely driven and a guide who was both knowledgeable and possessed a sense of humour. Would happily tour with these guys again! Especially liked the Grand Hotel and the elephant crossing.
Extras and add-ons
Hoi An Street Eats
The streets of Hoi An are jam packed with scooters, so if you want to experience Hoi An's nightlife the way locals do, then jump on a vintage Vespa to explore some of the city’s popular local haunts and tuck into lots of tasty Vietnamese cuisine.
Fly Hanoi to Hue
Opt to fly between Hanoi and Hue on any of our group tours, in lieu of the Reunification Express overnight train journey. After exploring the 36 streets of the old quarter by rickshaw, it's a one hour flight to Hue, where you'll enjoy a comfy bed for the night. The following morning enjoy a lie in and a leisurely breakfast before rendezvousing with your tour group mid-morning.
Backstreets of Hanoi
Get off the beaten track with a backstreets tour of Hanoi before your main tour of Vietnam begins. Travelling by various modes of transport including a taxi-motorbike, explore the quaint districts of Cho Buoi, Hoang Hoa Tham and Vinh Phuc. Have a delicious local lunch before visiting the Temple of Literature and the infamous Hanoi Hilton. Ending the day with a refreshing roadside beer.
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