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Backpacking Vietnam: Essence

Experience the best of Vietnam in 12 unforgettable days. From buzzing Hanoi to the stunning Ha Long Bay, cycling through Ninh Binh, cooking local dishes in Hoi An, and exploring the Mekong Delta and Cu Chi Tunnels—this trip has it all. Led by an expert guide and joined by a crew of new travel mates, it’s the ultimate way to see Vietnam.

  • 17 Meals (Vegetarian Options)
  • All Trips and Excursions
  • No Hidden Charges
  • All Accommodation
  • Airport Pick Up
  • All In-Country Transport
  • Flight from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh
  • International Flights
  • Travel Insurance

My boyfriend and I just finished the 12 Day Vietnam tour and it was amazing! We saw so many places, did awesome activities, met great people and had the best guide, Liam. He made sure we had fun, felt safe and didn’t have to worry about a thing. I have celiac disease and he had everything sorted so I could relax and enjoy it all.

Andrea Hollund, Mar 15, 2025

Backpacking Vietnam: Essence

£1199 from
Pay £250 deposit
  • Length12 Days
  • Avg. Age18 - 45
  • No. Of Activities17
  • No. Of Meals17
  • Avg. Group Size4 - 22
  • OperatorTrusted Partner
  • Starting PointHanoi
  • Ending PointHo Chi Minh

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Tour Dates

Tour Itinerary

DAY 1

Arrive in Hanoi

Touch down in Vietnam’s vibrant capital! We’ll be there to meet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. Settle in, meet your group and guide, and kick things off with a relaxed evening and optional welcome dinner with your new travel fam.

  • Room TypeHotel
DAY 2

Explore Hanoi

Dive into Hanoi’s buzzing energy with a walking and rickshaw tour of the Old Quarter. Wander through narrow streets packed with history, food stalls, and local life. Taste delicious Vietnamese street food and learn about the city’s culture and traditions. That evening, we’ll head out for dinner and drinks at some of the city's best local spots.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedWalking & Rickshaw Tour of Hanoi, Night Out in Hanoi
DAY 3

Ha Long Bay Overnight Cruise

Today we hit the water with an unforgettable overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay. Cruise through emerald waters surrounded by limestone cliffs, kayak through hidden caves, and enjoy a freshly prepared seafood lunch onboard. Spend the evening watching sunset from the deck, followed by a night under the stars on our traditional Vietnamese boat.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Room TypeOvernight Cruise
  • Activities IncludedOvernight Boat Trip on Ha Long Bay, Kayaking
DAY 4

Ninh Binh Homestay

After breakfast, we journey south to Ninh Binh, also known as the ‘Halong Bay on land.’ Settle into a charming riverside homestay surrounded by rice fields and towering limestone peaks. Enjoy a laid-back afternoon, take in the views, and relax before dinner with your hosts.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast, Lunch
  • Room TypeHomestay
  • Activities IncludedLocal Homestay Experience
DAY 5

Bike Ride, River Cruise & Overnight Train

Cycle through lush countryside past rice paddies and grazing water buffalo. We’ll then hop in traditional boats to float along the river and through scenic caves. After climbing to the Dragon Mountain Viewpoint for panoramic views, we board the overnight sleeper train south to Hoi An.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Room TypeOvernight Train
  • Activities IncludedBicycle Tour of Ninh Binh, Rice Paddies, River Boat Cruise, Dragon Mountain Viewpoint
DAY 6

Arrive in Hoi An

We arrive in the UNESCO-listed town of Hoi An, known for its charm and colourful lanterns. Spend the day exploring at your own pace—visit tailor shops, grab a banh mi, or relax by the riverside. In the evening, stroll through the lantern-lit streets for a magical vibe.

  • Room TypeHotel
DAY 7

Crab Fishing & Cooking Class

Cruise through coconut groves in traditional basket boats and try your hand at crab fishing with local fishermen. Later, take part in a hands-on cooking class to learn how to whip up some Vietnamese favourites. Feast on your creations and chill out for the evening.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast, Lunch
  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedCooking Class, Visit Local Markets, Basket Boat Crab Fishing
DAY 8

Lantern Making & Beach Time

This morning, we’ll learn the ancient art of lantern making in a workshop guided by a local artisan. Then, it’s time to hit the beach. We’ll relax at a beach club, swim, and sip cocktails with a stunning sunset as the backdrop. Dinner and drinks by the ocean top off a perfect day.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedLantern Making Class
DAY 9

Fly to Ho Chi Minh City

Catch a short internal flight to Ho Chi Minh City. After checking in, you’ll have the afternoon free to explore bustling markets or chill at a rooftop café. Join the group later for dinner and optional nightlife adventures in this high-energy southern city.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Room TypeHotel
DAY 10

Mekong Delta Overnight

Today we head into the Mekong Delta, a lush region of winding rivers and rural villages. Cruise canals, visit local markets, learn about traditional crafts, and get a true feel for local life. We’ll stay overnight in a peaceful homestay and enjoy a home-cooked meal.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Room TypeHomestay
  • Activities IncludedTraditional Mud Fishing, Mekong Delta Experience, Local Village Visit
DAY 11

Cu Chi Tunnels & Farewell Night

Head back to Ho Chi Minh City and stop at the Cu Chi Tunnels, a fascinating underground network used during the Vietnam War. Crawl through sections of the tunnels and hear powerful stories from the past. In the evening, we’ll celebrate our final night with a farewell dinner and drinks.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast, Lunch
  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedCu Chi Tunnels
DAY 12

Check Out & Onward Travel

Your Vietnam adventure wraps up today. Whether you’re flying home or continuing your travels, your group leader will be there to help with travel plans and goodbyes. Until next time!

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast

Optional Extras

All this is included + More!

  • Walking & Rickshaw Tour of Hanoi
  • Night Out in Hanoi
  • Overnight Boat Trip on Ha Long Bay
  • Kayaking
  • Local Homestay Experience
  • Bicycle Tour of Ninh Binh
  • Rice Paddies
  • River Boat Cruise
  • Dragon Mountain Viewpoint
  • Cooking Class
  • Visit Local Markets
  • Basket Boat Crab Fishing
  • Lantern Making Clas
  • Cu Chi Tunnels Tours
  • Traditional Mud Fishing
  • Mekong Delta Experience
  • Local Village Visit