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Vietnam Experience | with Ha Giang Loop
Tour Description:
Looking for the full experience tour of Vietnam? This 16-day Vietnam itinerary takes you through Ho Chi Minh, Hoi An, Hanoi & Halong Bay with plenty of action and highlights in Northern Vietnam’s Ha Giang loop. Picture yourself relishing delicious local eats in a cooking class, kayaking along the Nho Que River, stopping in exciting & iconic hotspots, and even staying on a junk boat. Get ready for a true Vietnam travel experience!
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Dates & Pricing
| Sunday 31 Aug 25 — Monday 15 Sep 25 | Starting at $2,298 |  SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Sunday 14 Sep 25 — Monday 29 Sep 25 | Starting at $2,298 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Sunday 28 Sep 25 — Monday 13 Oct 25 | Starting at $2,500 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Sunday 12 Oct 25 — Monday 27 Oct 25 | Starting at $2,298 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Sunday 26 Oct 25 — Monday 10 Nov 25 | Starting at $2,298 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Sunday 09 Nov 25 — Monday 24 Nov 25 | Starting at $2,298 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Wednesday 19 Nov 25 — Thursday 04 Dec 25 | Starting at $2,500 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Wednesday 26 Nov 25 — Thursday 11 Dec 25 | Starting at $2,298 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Wednesday 10 Dec 25 — Thursday 25 Dec 25 | Starting at $2,298 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Wednesday 17 Dec 25 — Thursday 01 Jan 26 | Starting at $2,298 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
Disclaimer: Prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, and in USD. All promotions are valid for new bookings only, capacity controlled and valid on select dates and departures. Individual Terms and Conditions will apply to all promotions. Any promotion can be withdrawn at any time without notice. Please speak with your Pavlus Travel Planner for complete vendor terms and conditions, including eligible tour and cruise dates.
Destination & Sightseeing
Destination & SightseeingDining Summary
14 Breakfast (B)
7 Lunch (L)
4 Dinner (D)
FAQs
Danang: Do I need a visa to enter Vietnam? Your visa requirements can change according to your citizenship (and also according to the length and purpose of your visit). Generally, most of our travellers need to apply for an e-visa prior to arrival in Vietnam. But we always recommend that you check out our visa guide for accurate information.
Danang: What is the best time to visit Vietnam? Vietnam is wonderful to visit year-round. But the best time to visit depends on what you wanna do, and where in Vietnam you wanna go.Generally, April & May are thought to be the best months to visit Vietnam because of the beautifully bright weather. Between December and March is a slightly cooler period. So if hiking, or city-dwelling is what you want, that’s the best time to visit. And if you wanna avoid the crowds, off-season tends to be between April and June or September to November.
Danang: What is the currency used in Vietnam? The currency used in Vietnam (that can buy you a wholesome, delicious bowl of Pho) is the Vietnamese dong (₫).
Danang: What is the local food like in Vietnam? Planning to visit Vietnam to taste all the wholesome flavours? Aren’t we all?You’ll find plenty of street food stop-offs, serving up freshly made gems including rice, noodle and battered pancake-based dishes, plus the world-famous Pho. Pork is a common feature of Vietnamese cuisine. Generally, Vietnamese food isn’t too spicy (except if your dish has fresh chillies in it!) Oh, and the best thing about the food here? It’s very very cheap.
Danang: How much money should I budget for on this trip? When you travel with Contiki, your accommodation, in-country transport and breakfasts are all included with the cost of your trip. So when it comes to budgeting, you only need to worry about your shopping! Luckily, Vietnam is heralded as an extremely affordable tourist destination too. As a rough guide, you should easily get by on US $50-80 a day.
Danang: What should I wear in Vietnam? We’ll be visiting some traditional tourist hotspots - so don’t forget to keep your shoulders covered (it's customary in Vietnam, and will probably be insisted). For all that beach exploration, it’s generally acceptable for tourists to dress in the swimwear of their choice.Vietnam tends to get very hot & humid, so make sure you pack lots of loose-fitting clothes made from a lightweight and breathable material. Big up the baggy shirts!
Danang: What is the etiquette for tipping in Vietnam? Tipping is pretty common in Vietnam’s tourism and hospitality sectors. Usually you’ll pay 10% of the total bill, which will amount to roughly $1-5.
Danang: Where multiple optionals are offered in one day, can I do them all or do I have to pick just one? On some days, the Free Time Add-Ons will be during different times. So you’ll be able to do them all! But on some days, you might have to pick just one. Don’t worry, your Trip Manager will do their best to manage all of this for you, and will be able to give you all the details you might need.
Danang: What are the luggage restrictions? You can bring one bag or suitcase of 73cm x 50cm x 25cm (29” x 20” x 10”), with a max weight of 20kg (44lbs) – plus one piece of hand luggage suitable as a carry-on for flights. Since our trips have included flights, your luggage needs to meet the weight & security restrictions imposed by airlines. On this trip, it’s necessary to use an overnight bag on the occasional nights when it’s not possible to access your luggage (overnight trips to Special Stays). It’s a good idea to bring an overnight bag, or hand luggage that’s big enough to double up as an overnighter when needed.
Danang: Do we visit the Golden Hands Bridge in Da Nang? Currently, the Golden Hands Bridge isn’t included on our itinerary. But that means, you get a free day to explore Hoi An - which you REALLY don’t wanna miss out on.The Bridge is part of a theme park called ‘Sun World Ba Na Hills’ and is about a 2-hour drive away from where we stay in Hoi An (and tends to be incredibly crowded!). But if you really wanna visit the bridge, you can always ask your Trip Manager who’ll sort it out for you!
Included Experience
Mekong River Delta: Grab your buddies and take a shot at catching an elephant ear fish for dinner. FYI: it tastes better than it looks.
Mekong River Delta: Watch and learn as local craftspeople make rice wine, tea, sweets and more local delicacies.
Ho Chi Minh City: Brave this subterranean world. The hand-dug tunnels were built by the Viet Cong to hide out during the war.
Ho Chi Minh City: Tick off all of the landmarks on your bucket list – Notre Dame Cathedral, General Post Office and the Presidential Palace.
Ho Chi Minh City: A meaningful reminder of the atrocities of the Vietnam War and its impact on local people and wildlife.
Ho Chi Minh City: Passports at the ready folks.
Hoi An: This 15th century port and UNESCO site is best explored on two wheels with a local expert. Don’t forget your Go-Pro!
Da Nang: Next stop, Hanoi. But before we hit the streets, it’s time to hit the sky one more time.
Hanoi: Gorge on a delicious, high-quality meal crafted by trainees looking to fine-tune their hospitality skills. The KOTO Community provides guidance, training and career prospects to the underprivileged young people of Vietnam.
Hanoi: Listen up culture-lovers. This shrine – dedicated to ancient philosopher Confucius – is known as ‘Vietnam’s first university’.
Hanoi: Take a look at the resting place of Vietnamese revolutionary leader and President Ho Chi Minh. This is where he, along with his party, declared the independence of Vietnam.
Ninh Binh: Cool tropical breeze. Lush-green landscapes. And an unforgettable view of the sunrise over the shimmery silhouette.
Halong Bay: Grab your new BFFs and hang out in this mini paradise. The powdery sand and turquoise waters will bless you with #islandvibes
Halong Bay: The best way to drift off into dreamy sleep? Drifting along the Gulf of Tonkin in a traditional Chinese-style Junk Boat, of course!
Halong Bay: Yet another work of art from Mother Nature. These huge underground caves are made for exploring. But can you spot the ‘mammoth’?
Ha Giang Loop: Check out the incredible views from Heaven Gate - a popular stop off on the Ha Giang loop.
Ha Giang Loop: Stop by to get a view of the winding roads that resemble a massive snake making its way down the slope!
Ha Giang Loop: Walk like a royal around this ancient palace that's made with green pebbles, pine woods, terra-cotta tiles and even sugarcane! (Seriously.)
Ma Pi Leng Peak: Lace up your boots! You'll take a challenging but short trek towards the Ma Pi Leng peak, passing by H'mong villages on the way.
Nho Que: Feast on a delicious lunch with incredible views of the Nho Que river. It's a photo ops hotspot!
Nho Que: Go with the flow on a local boat cruise as you check out one of South Asia's largest canyons.
Nho Que: Paddle through the turquoise waters of this beautiful river with views of scenic rice fields and mountains along the way.
Dong Van: Ever heard of a Qeej? It's a sacred instrument that was used to call the spirits (or at least that's what the legends say!). Today's your chance to witness a local man playing it.
Dong Van: Ready? We'll trek all the way up to ruins of the Dong Can fortress - a beautiful stone structure built during the French colonisation. It's the perfect spot for epic 360° views of Dong Van town.
Dong Van: Meet the incredible women at the Lung Tam Linen Cooperative who are working to preserve the craft of H'mong linen weaving. You'll see all the complicated stages of weaving, learn how they make high-quality fabric here and support local communities too.
14 Breakfast (B)
7 Lunch (L)
4 Dinner (D)
FAQs
Danang: Do I need a visa to enter Vietnam? Your visa requirements can change according to your citizenship (and also according to the length and purpose of your visit). Generally, most of our travellers need to apply for an e-visa prior to arrival in Vietnam. But we always recommend that you check out our visa guide for accurate information.
Danang: What is the best time to visit Vietnam? Vietnam is wonderful to visit year-round. But the best time to visit depends on what you wanna do, and where in Vietnam you wanna go.Generally, April & May are thought to be the best months to visit Vietnam because of the beautifully bright weather. Between December and March is a slightly cooler period. So if hiking, or city-dwelling is what you want, that’s the best time to visit. And if you wanna avoid the crowds, off-season tends to be between April and June or September to November.
Danang: What is the currency used in Vietnam? The currency used in Vietnam (that can buy you a wholesome, delicious bowl of Pho) is the Vietnamese dong (₫).
Danang: What is the local food like in Vietnam? Planning to visit Vietnam to taste all the wholesome flavours? Aren’t we all?You’ll find plenty of street food stop-offs, serving up freshly made gems including rice, noodle and battered pancake-based dishes, plus the world-famous Pho. Pork is a common feature of Vietnamese cuisine. Generally, Vietnamese food isn’t too spicy (except if your dish has fresh chillies in it!) Oh, and the best thing about the food here? It’s very very cheap.
Danang: How much money should I budget for on this trip? When you travel with Contiki, your accommodation, in-country transport and breakfasts are all included with the cost of your trip. So when it comes to budgeting, you only need to worry about your shopping! Luckily, Vietnam is heralded as an extremely affordable tourist destination too. As a rough guide, you should easily get by on US $50-80 a day.
Danang: What should I wear in Vietnam? We’ll be visiting some traditional tourist hotspots - so don’t forget to keep your shoulders covered (it's customary in Vietnam, and will probably be insisted). For all that beach exploration, it’s generally acceptable for tourists to dress in the swimwear of their choice.Vietnam tends to get very hot & humid, so make sure you pack lots of loose-fitting clothes made from a lightweight and breathable material. Big up the baggy shirts!
Danang: What is the etiquette for tipping in Vietnam? Tipping is pretty common in Vietnam’s tourism and hospitality sectors. Usually you’ll pay 10% of the total bill, which will amount to roughly $1-5.
Danang: Where multiple optionals are offered in one day, can I do them all or do I have to pick just one? On some days, the Free Time Add-Ons will be during different times. So you’ll be able to do them all! But on some days, you might have to pick just one. Don’t worry, your Trip Manager will do their best to manage all of this for you, and will be able to give you all the details you might need.
Danang: What are the luggage restrictions? You can bring one bag or suitcase of 73cm x 50cm x 25cm (29” x 20” x 10”), with a max weight of 20kg (44lbs) – plus one piece of hand luggage suitable as a carry-on for flights. Since our trips have included flights, your luggage needs to meet the weight & security restrictions imposed by airlines. On this trip, it’s necessary to use an overnight bag on the occasional nights when it’s not possible to access your luggage (overnight trips to Special Stays). It’s a good idea to bring an overnight bag, or hand luggage that’s big enough to double up as an overnighter when needed.
Danang: Do we visit the Golden Hands Bridge in Da Nang? Currently, the Golden Hands Bridge isn’t included on our itinerary. But that means, you get a free day to explore Hoi An - which you REALLY don’t wanna miss out on.The Bridge is part of a theme park called ‘Sun World Ba Na Hills’ and is about a 2-hour drive away from where we stay in Hoi An (and tends to be incredibly crowded!). But if you really wanna visit the bridge, you can always ask your Trip Manager who’ll sort it out for you!
Included Experience
Mekong River Delta: Grab your buddies and take a shot at catching an elephant ear fish for dinner. FYI: it tastes better than it looks.
Mekong River Delta: Watch and learn as local craftspeople make rice wine, tea, sweets and more local delicacies.
Ho Chi Minh City: Brave this subterranean world. The hand-dug tunnels were built by the Viet Cong to hide out during the war.
Ho Chi Minh City: Tick off all of the landmarks on your bucket list – Notre Dame Cathedral, General Post Office and the Presidential Palace.
Ho Chi Minh City: A meaningful reminder of the atrocities of the Vietnam War and its impact on local people and wildlife.
Ho Chi Minh City: Passports at the ready folks.
Hoi An: This 15th century port and UNESCO site is best explored on two wheels with a local expert. Don’t forget your Go-Pro!
Da Nang: Next stop, Hanoi. But before we hit the streets, it’s time to hit the sky one more time.
Hanoi: Gorge on a delicious, high-quality meal crafted by trainees looking to fine-tune their hospitality skills. The KOTO Community provides guidance, training and career prospects to the underprivileged young people of Vietnam.
Hanoi: Listen up culture-lovers. This shrine – dedicated to ancient philosopher Confucius – is known as ‘Vietnam’s first university’.
Hanoi: Take a look at the resting place of Vietnamese revolutionary leader and President Ho Chi Minh. This is where he, along with his party, declared the independence of Vietnam.
Ninh Binh: Cool tropical breeze. Lush-green landscapes. And an unforgettable view of the sunrise over the shimmery silhouette.
Halong Bay: Grab your new BFFs and hang out in this mini paradise. The powdery sand and turquoise waters will bless you with #islandvibes
Halong Bay: The best way to drift off into dreamy sleep? Drifting along the Gulf of Tonkin in a traditional Chinese-style Junk Boat, of course!
Halong Bay: Yet another work of art from Mother Nature. These huge underground caves are made for exploring. But can you spot the ‘mammoth’?
Ha Giang Loop: Check out the incredible views from Heaven Gate - a popular stop off on the Ha Giang loop.
Ha Giang Loop: Stop by to get a view of the winding roads that resemble a massive snake making its way down the slope!
Ha Giang Loop: Walk like a royal around this ancient palace that's made with green pebbles, pine woods, terra-cotta tiles and even sugarcane! (Seriously.)
Ma Pi Leng Peak: Lace up your boots! You'll take a challenging but short trek towards the Ma Pi Leng peak, passing by H'mong villages on the way.
Nho Que: Feast on a delicious lunch with incredible views of the Nho Que river. It's a photo ops hotspot!
Nho Que: Go with the flow on a local boat cruise as you check out one of South Asia's largest canyons.
Nho Que: Paddle through the turquoise waters of this beautiful river with views of scenic rice fields and mountains along the way.
Dong Van: Ever heard of a Qeej? It's a sacred instrument that was used to call the spirits (or at least that's what the legends say!). Today's your chance to witness a local man playing it.
Dong Van: Ready? We'll trek all the way up to ruins of the Dong Can fortress - a beautiful stone structure built during the French colonisation. It's the perfect spot for epic 360° views of Dong Van town.
Dong Van: Meet the incredible women at the Lung Tam Linen Cooperative who are working to preserve the craft of H'mong linen weaving. You'll see all the complicated stages of weaving, learn how they make high-quality fabric here and support local communities too.
ITINERARY
ITINERARYStart Ho Chi Minh City
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.
Ho Chi Minh City To Mekong Delta
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.
Mekong Delta To Ho Chi Minh City
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).
Ho Chi Minh City To Nha Trang
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.
Overnight Train to Hoi An
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.
Hoi An
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.
Hoi An
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.
Hoi An to Hanoi via Da Nang
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.
Hanoi to Ninh Binh
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.
Ninh Binh to Halong Bay
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.
Halong Bay To Hanoi
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. To get preppin' for our adventure tomorrow, you have the chance to join us for dinner before heading onto Ta Hien to dance the night away.
Hanoi & Overnight Bus
Wakey wakey! You've got some free time in Hanoi before we hop onto our overnight bus. Look at you, travelling like a local! Tuck into your beds for the night, tomorrow's lined up with even more epic adventures.
Overnight Bus to Dong Van via Ha Giang Loop
Morning! The sun's yet to rise, so you've some time to catch some more sleep at our local homestay, and grab breakfast too. This morning, we’ll hit the road en route to Dong Van. We’ve got plenty of picturesque viewpoints on the way, so keep your cameras at the ready! Prepare to be amazed. This world-famous route is packed with incredible views. On our drive, you’ll see the Heaven Gate, Twin Mountain, Tham Ma slope and even visit an ancient palace - all while being surrounded by lush green valleys all the way through. It’s been a looong day! What better way to end it than by devouring delicious local food with your crew. Then, it’s off to your cosy, cosy beds for the night.
Dong Van to Nho Que via Ma Pi Leng Peak
Rise and shine! After breakfast, you’ll join a local guide for an exhilarating trek to the Ma Pi Leng peak. It’s trek time! Today, we’ll hike along the Sky Path, enjoying views of the cascading limestone cliffs, Hmong villages and cornfields along the way. And after a delicious lunch, we’ll take a boat cruise to our campsite. But not before checking out the magnificent Tu San Abyss Alley, ofc. Riverside camping anyone? We’ll check into our overnight tents (that open up to breathtaking views of the Nho Que river). Enjoy dinner and music with your crew before resting your trek-tired limbs for the day.
Nho Que to Dong Van
It’s not every day that you get to kayak along a beautiful turquoise river. But today's the day. You’ll paddle across the river (with sprawling terrace fields on the banks) before enjoying a lunch by the river with your crew. Then, we’ll make our way through Dong Van Geopark where you’ll visit a local H’mong man who’ll charm you with the sweet tunes of a traditional Qeej flute. Wanna catch 360° panorama views of Dong Van Town? You can choose to join us for a challenging but short trek up to a French fortress. Tonight, we’ll head out to explore this quaint town even further.
Dong Van to Hanoi via Ha Giang Loop
It's the final day. But we ain’t done just yet. This morning, we’ll head back to Ha Giang (with even better views this time!). Today, we’ll stop by for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience and meet the wonderful women who create intricate traditional linen fabrics that help support their community. And with that, it’s time for the final leg of the journey. So, get comfy in your reclining seats as we head back to where it all began. After 5 incredible days, it’s time to say goodbye. Don’t forget to exchange socials with your crew! We just have a hunch that you'll be planning your next trip soon…
Disclaimer: Prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, and in USD. All promotions are valid for new bookings only, capacity controlled and valid on select dates and departures. Individual Terms and Conditions will apply to all promotions. Any promotion can be withdrawn at any time without notice. Please speak with your Pavlus Travel Planner for complete vendor terms and conditions, including eligible tour and cruise dates.
