Mountains and Coast

What’s in a name? Following the fall of Saigon on 30th April 1975, Saigon was renamed Ho Chi Minh City. However the old Saigon name is still often used by both Vietnamese and visitors, especially when referring to the most central part of the city, District 1.

This energetic city of some 11 million people (seemingly all on motor scooters together) is the backdrop for exploring the more modern history and stories it’s enduring people.

There are amazing markets, stunning architecture, wartime sites and so much more that you’ll discover, with your private guide and driver.

This morning, Join your speedboat for around 1.5 hours fast cruise up river. Within 15 minutes, the banks of the river change from city sprawl to lush jungle. This unique mode of travel to Cu Chi is an experience in itself.

After a short documentary, your guide will lead you through the historic Cu Chi Tunnels and the numerous sites, which show how the Viet Cong waged war.

The tunnels were dug with simple tools and bare hands during the French occupation in the 1940s, and further expanded during the Vietnam War in the 1960s to provide refuge and a defensive advantage over the American soldiers.

Enjoy a delicious traditional Vietnamese lunch by the river, consisting of authentic fried spring rolls, chicken and beef dishes and soup, before returning to the city mid-afternoon.

This evening – experience Saigon the local way! You will ride on the back of typical Saigon transportation – the xe-om (motorbike).

With an experienced driver to get away from the main tourist spots and see the ‘real Saigon’. We will be visiting local Vietnamese Street food vendors on the pavement or in small local Vietnamese style restaurants.

The atmosphere is light and fun with a focus on enjoying great Vietnamese food. It is truly like going to a dinner party with local Vietnamese, except this one moves!

Your included domestic flight takes around an hour, but you be a world away from the bustle of Saigon!

This afternoon, your private guide will show you around the main sites and sights of the charming alpine-like city in the mountains.

Depending on your own interests, we’ll tailor this day to suit you.

Want to wander in the coffee plantations and sample different tastes – no problem. Driving in the countryside – or trek, or cycle? The choice is yours.

Whichever you choose, it’ll be a fabulous day!

Your included domestic flight will today take you north-east to central Vietnam and the coastal city of Da Nang. On arrival, your private guide will show you the beaches of the area, before the short drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Town of Hoi An.

Here you’ll settle in to your hotel for then next four nights, which will be a mix of discovering sights and beach relaxation.

Located on the banks of the poetic Thu Bon River, Hoi An ancient town is an Eastern oriental classic captivation.

Today, this UNESCO World Heritage listed ancient town is home to well-preserved buildings, pedestrianized streets, a quaint riverside and unique cuisines.

The narrow lanes are ideal for aa approximate 2 hours walking tour to give you a glimpse of an ancient town with its illustrious past.

In the afternoon, you’re free and easy to relax by your hotel pool or at the nearby beaches.

Start after breakfast for a 30 minutes gentle bicycle ride through the flat country lanes to Tra Que, which is a charming little village located just a few kilometers northeast of Hoi An.

The village is famous for growing many kinds of vegetables. You can see the local farmers doing there daily work when raking the ground, sowing, watering, picking vegetables and many other activities which are rarely found in modern daily life.

You’ll learn about organic farming and if you wish try yourself, so that you can understand more about organic farming techniques.

In the afternoon, you’re free and easy to relax by your hotel pool or at the nearby beaches.

This morning we’ll take a drive out to My Son, located in an narrow valley in Duy Tan Commune is around 40km from Hoi An.

It was an imperial city of the Cham kingdom, between the 4th and 12th century.

The Sanctuary now is a large complex of religious relics that comprises more than 70 architectural works. They include temples and towers that connect to each other with complicated red brick designs.

There will be ample time to discover this main cultural vestige of the ancient Champa civilization in Vietnam.

In the afternoon, you’re free and easy to relax by your hotel pool or at the nearby beaches.

Depending on time before your airport transfer, pick up some souvenirs of your trip in the Old Town, or perhaps some clothing that you’ve had especially tailored.

You could also customize and extend this tour by continuing north to Hue, Hanoi or even further. Just ask our planners!