Upon arrival in Hanoi, the thousand-year-old capital rich in captivating history, you’ll be warmly greeted at the airport by Kampá Tour’s friendly English-speaking guide. They will assist with a smooth transfer to your centrally located hotel and adjust the day’s itinerary based on your arrival schedule.

Your journey through Hanoi begins with a visit to some of its most iconic and storied landmarks:

• Ly Thai To Square: Learn about the deep-rooted legacy of Vietnam’s capital, tracing back over a millennium.

• Hoan Kiem Lake (Lake of the Restored Sword): Discover the magical legends surrounding this serene lake, where you’ll find the Temple of the Jade Mountain and Turtle Tower standing gracefully amid the water.

• Hanoi Old Quarter: Stroll through the historic 36 streets, each named after the traditional crafts and trades once practiced there. A highlight is Ma May Street, where you’ll visit a preserved “tube house” that showcases classic Hanoi architecture.

After this immersive cultural experience, enjoy some leisure time to relax at your own pace.

Spend a full day delving into Hanoi’s most significant cultural treasures and historical landmarks:

• Temple of Literature: Admire this emblem of Vietnam’s imperial education system and one of the city’s most celebrated architectural gems.

• Ba Dinh Square: Walk through this historic site, home to the former residence of the Governor-General of Indochina, the solemn Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the modest stilt house where President Ho Chi Minh once lived.

• Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: Discover a rich collection of over 25,000 artifacts—both ancient and modern—that illustrate the diverse heritage and daily lives of Vietnam’s many ethnic groups.

As evening falls, immerse yourself in traditional Vietnamese artistry with a water puppet performance, a uniquely captivating form of local entertainment.

Overnight stay in Hanoi.

As we journey toward the majestic highlands of northern Vietnam—an expansive border region shared with Laos and China—we’ll make several enriching stops along the way.

Our first stop is Suoi Giang, a scenic area famed for its ancient green tea plantations. Here, you’ll find towering tea trees that are centuries old. A visit to a local tea farm can be arranged, where you’ll enjoy a tea tasting experience amidst the lush surroundings.

We then continue to Nghia Lo, a quaint town nestled in the heart of the vast Muong Lo Valley. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed into a traditional stilt house in Ban Deu Village, home to both black and white Thai ethnic minorities. Our gracious hosts will greet us warmly, and after some time to relax, we’ll set out on a leisurely bike ride through the village. Along the way, you’ll meet local residents and gain insight into the cultural distinctions between black and white Thais—from their traditional dress to their daily customs and way of life.

According to ethnological research, the Nghia Lo region is considered the ancestral homeland of the Thai people and the starting point of their migration across Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand.

In the evening, you’ll enjoy a home-cooked dinner with the host family, followed by an overnight stay in their authentic stilt house.

After a heartfelt farewell from our hosts, we set off for Mu Cang Chai, a destination famed for its breathtaking rice terraces. These stunning landscapes, a paradise for photography enthusiasts, are at their most vibrant between June and September, when the hills and valleys are blanketed in lush green and golden rice fields.

Along the way, we’ll make several scenic stops:

• Khau Pha Pass: Marvel at the panoramic views over the picturesque Tu Le Valley, known for its cascading rice paddies.

• La Pan Tan, Che Cu Nha, and De Xu Phinh: Visit remote Hmong villages nestled among some of the most beautiful and intricate rice terraces in the region.

• Mu Cang Chai Market: Soak in the atmosphere of this traditional market, which retains its authentic charm and local character.

We then continue our journey to Than Uyen, where you’ll check into the hotel and rest for the night.

We continue our journey to Sapa, crossing the majestic Hoang Lien Son mountain range, the southeasternmost extension of the Himalayas. Upon arrival in this former French hill station, you’ll enjoy a leisurely walking tour to explore its charm and colonial legacy:

• Visit the Gothic stone church, built by the French over a century ago, which remains a landmark in the heart of Sapa.

• Stroll through the central market and narrow streets lined with colorful “ethnic shops,” offering handcrafted textiles and local specialties.

In the afternoon, embark on a walk to Ma Tra village, home to the Black H’mong people. Unlike most Hmong communities, the families here live close together in a small, peaceful valley. In the village center, you’ll often see women and children gathered to embroider, chat, and go about their daily routines. The area is also known for its artichoke cultivation.

We then continue to Ta Phin village, where the Red Dzao people reside. Easily recognized by their distinctive red headscarves, the Red Dzao are renowned for their deep knowledge of medicinal herbs and traditional healing practices.

After this immersive cultural experience, return to Sapa for an overnight stay at your hotel.

Spend the day hiking through the breathtaking and exotic landscapes of the Muong Hoa Valley, located southwest of Sapa at the base of Mount Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina.

Your trek will take you along scenic trails weaving through several ethnic minority villages scattered across the valley:

• Y Linh Ho and Lao Chai: Home to the Black Hmong, where you’ll witness traditional farming practices and everyday village life.

• Ta Van: A village of the Dzay people, known for their welcoming nature and distinct cultural heritage.

As you walk through terraced rice fields and along gentle mountain paths, you’ll have the chance to interact with local villagers, observe their agricultural work, and gain insight into their traditions and lifestyles.

Return to Sapa in the evening for an overnight stay at the hotel.

Begin your day in Sapa, a beloved destination in Northern Vietnam, celebrated for its stunning landscapes and rich tapestry of ethnic cultures.

From Sapa, embark on a scenic drive approximately 100 kilometers northeast to Bac Ha, a journey of about 2 to 3 hours. Along the way, admire the picturesque scenery featuring terraced rice fields, forested hills, and winding rivers.

Upon arrival, venture off the beaten path to visit less touristy villages such as Thai Giang Pho and Na Hoi, where you’ll encounter the Tay, Black Hmong, and Flower Hmong ethnic groups. These visits offer a chance to observe local life in its most authentic form, far from the crowds.

Explore Bac Ha town, known for its vibrant weekly markets, where local communities gather to trade goods, sell handmade crafts, and showcase their colorful traditional attire.

In the evening, enjoy a warm welcome from a Tay ethnic family, with whom you’ll share a traditional dinner and spend the night in their home—a unique opportunity for cultural immersion and connection.

After breakfast with your host family in Bac Ha, take some time to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the village or pay a final visit to the local market if your stay coincides with a market day. It’s a great opportunity to pick up unique handcrafted items or simply observe the vibrant trading scene.

Then, begin your return journey to Hanoi, a drive of approximately 5 to 6 hours through ever-changing landscapes—winding mountain roads, tranquil valleys, and rural scenes of daily life in northern Vietnam.

Arrive in Hanoi in the late afternoon or early evening. Check in at your hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure.

Depart for Ninh Binh, a captivating region known for its limestone karsts, sugarloaf mountains, and rice fields nourished by rivers and lakes year-round.

Upon arrival in Ninh Xuan, begin your visit with a climb up Mua Mountain. Ascend the 486 white stone steps to reach the summit of this bell-shaped peak, where you’ll be rewarded with a stunning panoramic view over the Tam Coc landscape—a breathtaking vista of rivers, rice fields, and dramatic limestone formations.

Next, head to Tam Coc for a leisurely bike ride through the peaceful countryside. Cycle along small village paths, past lush paddies, and through a landscape straight out of a postcard.

In the afternoon, board a traditional rowboat for a scenic cruise along the Ngo Dong River. Drift gently through a surreal landscape of rice fields and towering karsts, passing beneath the famous three caves carved into the base of the mountains.

End the day with an overnight stay in Ninh Binh, surrounded by nature and serenity.

Depart for Halong Bay, widely considered Vietnam’s most breathtaking natural wonder and one of Asia’s most mesmerizing landscapes.

Upon arrival at the port, board a traditional wooden junk boat and receive a warm welcome from the friendly crew. Your cruise begins through the serene waters of Bai Tu Long Bay, the quieter northern section of Halong Bay, known for its unspoiled beauty and fewer crowds.

As the boat glides through the emerald waters, admire the thousands of limestone islets rising dramatically from the sea, shaped like sails, dogs, roosters, incense burners, and more—each formation more striking than the last.

You’ll have the opportunity to explore Vung Vieng fishing village by small boat or kayak. This tranquil village offers insight into the traditional floating life of local fishermen, and you may even interact with the villagers.

In the late afternoon, unwind on the upper deck, soaking in the sunset over the bay. Join an onboard cooking demonstration, where you’ll learn to prepare classic Vietnamese dishes like spring rolls.

Enjoy freshly prepared seafood meals for both lunch and dinner, served in the ship’s dining area.

The evening is yours to relax: try your hand at night squid fishing, play cards, or simply enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the bay.

Overnight on board, surrounded by the quiet beauty of Halong Bay.

Wake early to witness a breathtaking spectacle: the sunrise over Halong Bay, as the first golden rays peek through the mist-shrouded limestone karsts. Start the day with a peaceful Tai Chi session on the deck, surrounded by the tranquil waters and dramatic scenery.

After breakfast, the cruise continues through the less-traveled corners of Halong Bay, offering more opportunities to enjoy its otherworldly beauty.

You’ll then visit Thien Canh Son Cave, a hidden gem nestled within the cliffs. Inside, marvel at the ancient stalactites and stalagmites, formed over thousands of years, creating a natural masterpiece.

Return to the junk for a final lunch on board, enjoying the view as the boat makes its way back to the harbor.

Disembark and transfer back to Hanoi.

In the evening, take a domestic flight to Hue, the former imperial capital located in central Vietnam, steeped in royal history and charm.

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Hue.

Begin your day with a city tour of Hue, Vietnam’s final imperial capital, which served as the political and cultural heart of the country from 1802 to 1945 under the Nguyen Dynasty.

• Start with a visit to the Imperial City, a vast complex of palaces, temples, and gates that once housed the 13 Nguyen emperors over 143 years. Walk through its grand courtyards and intricate architecture to relive the imperial legacy.

• Then, explore one of Hue’s iconic imperial mausoleums. You may choose to visit:

  • The Gia Long Mausoleum, dedicated to the founding emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty and a figure closely tied to early Franco-Vietnamese relations (alongside French missionary Pigneau de Behaine),

  • Or the Minh Mang Mausoleum, a stunning blend of Confucian architecture and natural landscape, built for the emperor famed for fathering 142 children with 43 concubines.

• Continue to Phu Mong Village, known for its traditional garden houses, a distinctive element of Hue’s aristocratic and imperial culture.

• Visit either the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, the most beautiful and frequently visited pagoda in Hue, overlooking the Perfume River,

  • Or the more peaceful Tu Hieu Pagoda, known for its spiritual ambiance and as the resting place of many Nguyen Dynasty eunuchs. If timing allows, you might witness a monastic prayer session.

• End the day at Dong Ba Market, the city’s largest and oldest marketplace. Wander among stalls offering local specialties like Hue conical hats, áo dài (traditional tunics), spices, and regional snacks.

Overnight in Hue, with time to relax and reflect on the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Embark on a full-day excursion to explore the villages and pagodas surrounding Hue, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich traditions and peaceful countryside life.

Start the day with a leisurely boat trip upstream on the Perfume River, known for its calm, scenic beauty. Your first stop is the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, perched on a green pine-covered hill. This historic site is one of Hue’s most revered spiritual landmarks.

Continue by boat to Thuy Bieu Village, famous for its high-quality grapefruits. Upon arrival, take a bike ride through the village, pedaling along shady lanes lined with grapefruit and other fruit trees. The tranquil setting is perfect for connecting with nature and observing daily life in a traditional agricultural community.

You’ll be welcomed into the home of a local farming family, where you’ll have the chance to join in preparing lunch and enjoy a meal made with your own hands—an authentic, heartwarming experience of rural hospitality.

In the afternoon, transfer by car to Sinh Village, renowned for its folk woodblock prints. Stroll through the village and visit the home of Mr. Phuoc, a master artist with over 60 years of experience. Learn about the traditional printing techniques, from carving woodblocks to stamping and coloring, and even try your hand at this centuries-old craft.

Next, head to Thanh Tien Village, known for its vibrant paper flower craft, a tradition passed down for over 400 years. Here, artisans skillfully create lifelike lotuses, roses, tuberoses, sunflowers, and more using paper, bamboo, and local materials. Visit a workshop to witness the precision and creativity involved—it’s often hard to tell the difference between paper and real flowers.

Return to Hue in the late afternoon. The rest of the day is free to relax.

Overnight stay in Hue.

Depart from Hue for a scenic drive to Hoi An, a charming ancient town located about 150 kilometers to the south, following a route that winds along the wild and lesser-traveled coastal road of the Eastern Sea and over the dramatic Cloud Pass (Hai Van Pass)—the highest mountain pass in central Vietnam.

Along the journey, enjoy several stops and sightseeing opportunities:

• Take in the views of Lang Co Bay and Da Nang’s turquoise coastline, with long, pristine beaches like Thuan An and Lang Co, which remain largely untouched and offer a glimpse of Vietnam’s unspoiled coastal beauty.

• Pass through areas of vast lagoons, home to local fish and oyster farms, providing insight into the region’s traditional aquaculture and daily livelihood.

• Traverse the Cloud Pass, offering spectacular views of the sea and mountains—this winding mountain road is one of Vietnam’s most famous scenic routes.

• Along the roadside, observe unique Vietnamese cemeteries, often called “ghost towns” due to their elaborate tombs. These structures are built in ornate Asian architectural styles resembling miniature palaces, offering a chance to learn about the Vietnamese “double burial” tradition—a fascinating and spiritual aspect of local culture.

Arrive in Hoi An in the afternoon. Check in at your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening in this beautifully preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Start your day with a walking tour of Hoi An’s Old Quarter, a beautifully preserved town often hailed as “Vietnam’s most enchanting city” for its blend of history, culture, and charm.

Highlights of the walking tour include:

• Fujian Assembly Hall (Fujian Shrine): A richly decorated temple dedicated to Thien Hau, the protective goddess of fishermen and sailors.

• Phuc Thanh Pagoda: The oldest pagoda in Hoi An, founded in 1454 by a Chinese monk, featuring serene courtyards and ancient architecture.

• Japanese Covered Bridge: An iconic 16th-century structure built in 1593 to connect the Japanese and Chinese quarters of the town—now one of Hoi An’s most photographed landmarks.

Wander the narrow, lantern-lined streets, stopping to visit traditional wooden houses, small museums, silk boutiques, and craft workshops that showcase the town’s rich cultural heritage.

In the afternoon, set off on a scenic bike ride into the countryside surrounding Hoi An. Cycle past lush rice paddies, peaceful hamlets, shrimp ponds, and vibrant vegetable gardens, enjoying the tranquil pace of rural life.

Stop at Cam Chau Village, where you’ll visit a lantern-making workshop. Here, you’ll learn about the full process—from bamboo frame crafting to dyeing fabrics and assembling paper lanterns—a signature craft of Hoi An.

Return to the town in the late afternoon. Overnight stay in Hoi An, with free time to enjoy its magical evening ambiance.

Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore the enchanting town of Hoi An at your own pace, with a range of activities to suit your interests:

• Wander the historic Old Quarter, where every corner tells a story. Stroll through the narrow lanes lined with ancient architecture, colorful lanterns, and charming boutiques. This is a perfect opportunity to shop for local specialties like lacquerware, handicrafts, and traditional textiles.

• For a unique experience, consider visiting one of Hoi An’s renowned tailor shops. The town is famous for its custom-made clothing, and you can have beautifully tailored garments created from high-quality silk or other fine fabrics, often ready within 24–48 hours.

• Set off on a bike ride into the Hoi An countryside, where you’ll encounter traditional villages dedicated to crafts like vegetable farming, pottery, and woodworking. The peaceful rural setting offers a deeper look into the local way of life.

• If the weather is favorable, spend some time relaxing on the coast. Cua Dai and An Bang beaches, located just a short ride from town, are among Vietnam’s most beautiful. Enjoy the sunshine, swim in the warm sea, or simply unwind with a fresh coconut by the shore.

After a day of exploration, creativity, or seaside relaxation, return to your hotel in Hoi An for a restful overnight stay.

After your flight to Ho Chi Minh City—the dynamic capital of southern Vietnam, formerly known as Saigon—begin your discovery of the city’s vibrant heart, often referred to as “colonial Saigon” due to its rich French colonial architecture and historical significance.

Your city tour includes the following highlights:

• Ben Thanh Market: Dive into the energy of one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Bustling with activity, this lively market offers everything from street food and textiles to souvenirs and local handicrafts.

• Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office: Two architectural gems from the French colonial era, both designed in part by Gustave Eiffel. These landmarks are enduring symbols of Saigon’s historic charm and blend of East and West.

• People’s Committee Headquarters: Formerly the Central Town Hall, this magnificent building is widely regarded as the most beautiful colonial structure in the city. Though the interior is not open to the public, its elegant facade makes it a must-see.

• War Remnants Museum: A sobering yet important stop offering a powerful look at the First Indochina War and the Vietnam War through photographs, exhibits, and artifacts. The museum presents a compelling narrative on the human cost of war and the resilience of the Vietnamese people.

At the end of your guided tour, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel. The evening is free for you to explore the city on your own—perhaps enjoy Saigon’s bustling night markets, riverside cafes, or rooftop bars.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Depart from Ho Chi Minh City for a journey into the heart of the Mekong Delta, a remarkable region where land and water intertwine to form a rich, fertile landscape at the southern tip of Vietnam.

Upon arrival in Ben Tre—a key town nestled among the northern tributaries of the Mekong River—board a local boat for a scenic cruise along winding waterways toward Mo Cay, a tranquil and less-traveled rural district. Mo Cay is known for its vibrant coconut trade, with locals producing a wide range of coconut-based goods such as coconut threads, sweets, and activated coconut charcoal.

Explore the lush surroundings by bicycle or aboard a Xe Lôi (a motorized tricycle). Travel along quiet, shaded paths through dense coconut groves, soaking in the beauty of the landscape far from tourist crowds. Along the way, stop at local farms to witness the traditional craft of making coconut candy, coconut brooms, and other regional specialties.

Continue your adventure with a peaceful ride in a small rowing boat, gliding through narrow canals lined with water palm trees. This serene journey offers intimate glimpses into the daily rhythms of delta life.

Visit the home of Mr. Van, a local resident, where you’ll be welcomed with coconut jam, honey tea, and bee pollen prepared by his wife. Take time to interact with the friendly villagers—an opportunity for genuine cultural exchange and connection.

In the afternoon, travel by car to Giong Trom, passing a patchwork of coconut plantations, lush vegetation, and intricate canal systems that feed into the majestic Mekong River.

Check in at a charming riverside lodge on the banks of the Ham Luong River, where you’ll have time to relax in the tranquil setting and, if the weather permits, enjoy a peaceful sunset over the delta.

Overnight at the lodge, surrounded by the calm and natural beauty of the Mekong Delta.

Begin your day with a leisurely bike ride through the heart of coconut country, pedaling along narrow, shaded paths toward Oc Island. This scenic route offers an intimate look at daily life in the Mekong Delta, with stops to observe local craft activities. Along the way, visit a small village market and a coconut shelling factory, where you can witness firsthand how coconuts are processed for various uses.

In the afternoon, depart by car for Tra Vinh, crossing the expansive branches of the Mekong River, including the Ham Luong and Co Chien rivers. This journey offers sweeping views of the lush delta landscape—rice paddies, fruit orchards, and tranquil waterways—all characteristic of Vietnam’s rural south.

Upon arrival in Tra Vinh, a charming town located downstream on a peninsula-like strip of land, begin your exploration of its rich Khmer cultural heritage. Visit the Khmer Cultural Museum, which offers insights into the traditions, language, and history of the ethnic Khmer community in southern Vietnam.

Then, continue to the Âng Pagoda (Angkor Ajaborey Pagoda)—the oldest pagoda in Tra Vinh, originally built in the 10th century and restored in 1842. Nestled among centuries-old trees, this temple is a fine example of Khmer-Buddhist architecture, blending Angkor-style elements with local Vietnamese influences, creating a unique and sacred atmosphere.

As the day winds down, continue your journey to Can Tho, the economic and cultural heart of the Mekong Delta, located on the southern arm of the river.

Overnight at your hotel in Can Tho, where you can enjoy the comforts of the city while remaining close to the region’s riverine charm.

Rise early for a memorable boat excursion on the Mekong River to visit the renowned Cai Rang Floating Market—one of the largest and most vibrant in the Mekong Delta. As dawn breaks, you’ll witness a bustling scene of boats laden with fresh produce, fruits, vegetables, and household goods, all engaged in lively trade on the water. Sellers advertise their goods by hanging samples on tall poles, while buyers navigate between boats in smaller sampans. This floating marketplace offers a unique window into the river-based lifestyle and commerce of the delta’s residents.

After taking in the sights and sounds of Cai Rang, cross the river for a visit to the An Binh land market, located just opposite. Here, you’ll experience a more traditional land-based market and have the chance to compare it with the dynamic, waterborne trade you’ve just observed. Both markets offer rich insights into local life and the rhythms of daily commerce in the Mekong Delta.

In the afternoon, begin your journey back to Ho Chi Minh City, enjoying the changing scenery as you leave the peaceful delta behind.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City, with time to relax or explore the city at your leisure.

Enjoy a completely free day at your leisure—an ideal time to rest, reflect on your journey, or make any final souvenir purchases in the lively streets and markets of Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you prefer relaxing at a café, strolling through favorite neighborhoods, or simply soaking in the last moments of Vietnam’s vibrant culture, the day is yours.

In the evening, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight.

This marks the end of your 3-week journey across Vietnam from north to south. We hope your adventure has been filled with unforgettable experiences, rich cultural encounters, and lasting memories.

Wishing you a safe and pleasant journey home!