Vietnam Experience | 2025-2026
Vietnam Experience | 2025-2026
$1945
Vietnam Experience | 2025-2026
12 Days Starting in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and ending in Hanoi, Vietnam
Visiting: Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Nha Trang, Hoi An, Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay
Tour operator:
Tour code:
VIEP25
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Vietnam with the "Vietnam Experience" tour for 2025-2026. This cultural adventure takes you from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the serene landscapes of Halong Bay. Discover the rich history of the Viet Cong tunnels, explore the vibrant markets and local crafts of the Mekong River Delta, and cycle through the charming UNESCO site of Hoi An. In Hanoi, visit the Temple of Literature and enjoy a unique dining experience at KOTO restaurant. Relax on a traditional junk boat in Halong Bay, surrounded by turquoise waters and limestone islands. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and a mix of included and optional activities, this tour offers a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation. Enjoy local delicacies, immerse yourself in Vietnam's culture, and create lasting memories on this 12-day adventure.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Ho Chi Minh City
Location: Ho Chi Minh City
Accommodation Name: Vien Dong Hotel (or similar)
Welcome to Ho Chi Minh city, formerly known as Saigon. This is one of Asia's most exhilarating cities, steeped in grand history and post-Vietnam war memories. You'll meet your travel comrades and have a free evening to explore. Oh yes, this is the right way to get your Vietnam trip started.
Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City To Mekong Delta
Location: Mekong Delta
Accommodation Name: Bay Thoi Homestay (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we leave Ho Chi Minh City, exchanging fast paced city life for an energy that's a little more quaint. Such is the contrasting beauty of Vietnam. Our journey in a traditional boat will prove just how dramatically this river's fringes can vary. We'll see floating markets, visit a rice paper factory and sip some of Vietnam's famous rice whiskey. A home-cooked meal and local musicians will round off our day as we settle in for a night at a local homestay.
Day 3: Mekong Delta To Ho Chi Minh City
Location: Ho Chi Minh City
Accommodation Name: Vien Dong Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
After an early breakfast we'll make our way back to Ho Chi Minh City, detouring past Viet Cong’s Cu Chi Tunnels. See traps, hidden doors & some of the 250kms of tunnels that Vietnamese resistance fighters dug by hand, and even go down into the skinny tunnels to experience them first hand in this look into Vietnam's staggering past. Back in the addictive mayhem of Vietnam's biggest city you will have free time to carry on your explorations. Continuing to eat your way through Vietnam's culinary highlights would be one wise way to use your time (we think).
Day 4: Ho Chi Minh City To Nha Trang
Location: Nha Trang
Accommodation Name: Vien Dong Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
With some traditional R'n'R on our afternoon agenda, the morning can be used to put on our discovering boots. We'll dabble in history and religion before taking flight to a coastal town overlooking the South China Sea. Golden sand beaches, turquoise waters and a bustling night life - this is Nha Trang. This afternoon why not book in for a mineral mud bath and hot thermal spring experience before heading out to dinner with your crew. Ah, the good life.
Day 5: Overnight Train to Hoi An
Location: Nha Trang
Accommodation Name: Overnight Train
Meals Included: Breakfast
Good news - we have a whole full day to soak up Nha Trang before heading to Hoi An. Have a massage, sign up for the optional cruise, or just hang on the beach before returning to our hotel to freshen up for our overnight train experience. Tonight, we'll head north via our comfy overnight train - where you'll wake up in our next destination and ready to explore it all.
Day 6: Hoi An
Location: Hoi An
Accommodation Name: Qualia De Hotel Hoi An (Previously Le Pavillon Paradise) (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Time to rise and shine. After travelling North overnight, you'll be waking up in stunning Hoi An.With Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese and European influences, Hoi An has no shortage of charm and architectural interest. Bike riding through the vibrant town, visiting an ancient house & ordering custom-made clothes at an artful tailor are just some of the activities that will colour our day. Tonight you can opt into a Vietnamese cooking class, whipping up a storm of up to 4 traditional dishes.
Day 7: Hoi An
Location: Hoi An
Accommodation Name: Qualia De Hotel Hoi An (Previously Le Pavillon Paradise) (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Morning travellers! The day is all yours. Poke around in galleries & market stalls (the best shopping spots in Vietnam in our opinion) and devour all of the delectable treats on offer. And for a dose of culture, you could ride on one of Vietnam’s very own Bamboo Basket Boats (Yes, the ones that you’ve probably seen on Instagram). And to top it all off, we’ll grab some fresh coconut water straight from the tree to your tummy.
Day 8: Hoi An to Hanoi via Da Nang
Location: Hanoi
Accommodation Name: Hanoi Larosa Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Leaving Hoi An will be sad. But we’re heading to Hanoi, so there’s hardly an excuse to not be excited. We’ll grab a quick breakfast and head to Da Nang… Fasten your seatbelts, folks. We’ll catch our internal flight to Hanoi from this quaint coastal town. Welcome to the city where all the bustling magic happens! We bet you’re starving from all that travel. That’s why we’ll head straight to the KOTO restaurant - a unique dining experience that supports disadvantaged youth in Vietnam. And with our tummies happy and full, we’ll visit the Temple of Literature (AKA Vietnam’s first-ever university.) But the sight-seeing doesn’t end there. It’s time to make our way to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, dedicated to a Vietnamese revolutionary leader. In the evening, you’re free to explore the capital however you like.
Day 9: Hanoi to Ninh Binh
Location: Ninh Binh
Accommodation Name: Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Next up, we’re heading to the epicentre of Vietnam's show-stopping natural beauty. Do you see them? Those lovely landscapes are all yours to admire and explore today. Get inside Vietnam’s legendary army jeep and let’s get going. Spend the day cherishing the crisp air and greenery. And if you love bird-watching, make sure to have your binoculars ready at all times.
Day 10: Ninh Binh to Halong Bay
Location: Halong Bay
Accommodation Name: Junk Boat (Special Stay)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Up and about at the crack of dawn today! We’re climbing up 500 steps to the top of the Mua Cave to witness an incredible sunrise over the valley. (You certainly don’t wanna forget your camera for this one). A drive through stunning scenery will evoke plenty of 'oh wow's', but it only gets better as we board our home for the night, a Chinese-style junk boat in Halong Bay. Feel the serenity kicking in immediately as we drift the limestone island seas of the Gulf of Tonkin. We’ll pass hidden lagoons, thick forests & dreamy grottos and also chill atop the Ti Top Island. A fresh seafood dinner and sunset at our docking spot will polish off a wonderful day packed with unforgettable moments and experiences.
Day 11: Halong Bay To Hanoi
Location: Hanoi
Accommodation Name: Hanoi Larosa Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today will be all about the leisurely vibes as we wake up to breakfast with a quick stop to explore the Sung Sot Caves. Make the most of your time on the junk boat - the views don't get much better than this. After heading back to Hanoi we find ourselves enjoying our final night together on tour. Save the choir of tears for tomorrow - this evening is all about making the most of your free time and staying positive so why not join us for one last family dinner and then onto Ta Hien to dance the night away.
Day 12: Hanoi
Location: Hanoi
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy one final breakfast with the squad this morning before this epic Vietnam trip wraps up. Hug it out & make plans to reunite sometimes soon - Latin America perhaps?
What's Included
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Accommodation
9 nights in Hotels, 2 nights in Special Stays is included.
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Fully Guided
Expert Trip Manager and Local Guides are included.
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Meals
11 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 2 Dinners are included.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
International flights to and from Vietnam are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory but not included in the tour price.
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Some Meals
While many meals are included, some will be at your own expense, giving you the opportunity to explore Vietnamese cuisine on your own.
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Optional Activities
Some activities, like the mineral mud bath in Nha Trang and the Vietnamese cooking class in Hoi An, are optional and may incur additional costs.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional snacks, and drinks outside of included meals are not covered.
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Visa Fees
Any visa fees required for entry into Vietnam are not included and are the responsibility of the traveler.
Dining Summary
FAQs
Included Experience
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with private coach transfers, internal flights, and a memorable junk boat experience, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey across Vietnam's diverse landscapes.Accommodation
Enjoy 9 nights in comfortable hotels and 2 nights in unique special stays, providing a blend of modern amenities and authentic local experiences throughout your journey in Vietnam.Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation is included in the tour?
The tour includes 9 nights in hotels and 2 nights in special stays, such as a junk boat in Halong Bay.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes 11 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 2 dinners. However, some meals will be at your own expense, allowing you to explore Vietnamese cuisine independently.
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What types of transportation are used during the tour?
The tour utilizes private coaches, internal flights, and a junk boat for transportation.
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Is travel insurance included in the tour price?
No, travel insurance is mandatory but not included in the tour price. You will need to arrange this separately.
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, there are optional activities such as a mineral mud bath in Nha Trang and a Vietnamese cooking class in Hoi An, which may incur additional costs.
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What is the luggage restriction for this tour?
You can bring one bag or suitcase with dimensions of 73cm x 50cm x 25cm and a maximum weight of 20kg, plus one piece of hand luggage suitable as a carry-on for flights. An overnight bag is also recommended for nights when it's not possible to access your main luggage.
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What is the visa requirement for entering Vietnam?
Visa requirements can vary based on your citizenship and the length and purpose of your visit. Most travelers need to apply for an e-visa prior to arrival in Vietnam. It's recommended to check a visa guide for accurate information.
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What is the best time to visit Vietnam?
Vietnam is great to visit year-round, but the best time depends on your activities and destinations. April and May are ideal for bright weather, while December to March is cooler, suitable for hiking or city visits. Off-season is between April and June or September to November to avoid crowds.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Sunday - Thursday
Sep 14, 2025 - Sep 25, 2025Sunday - Thursday
Sep 21, 2025 - Oct 02, 2025Sunday - Thursday
Sep 28, 2025 - Oct 09, 2025Book with Confidence
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Transfer as credit for future tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions