Cao Nguyên Đá Tour

From

$100.00

Duration

22 days

Tour Type

Overview

Vietnam is a country filled with captivating natural beauty and rustic village life, a melting pot of tradition and modernization, making it a truly unique place to visit. The islands and beaches are among the finest in all of Southeast Asia, and Vietnam’s cuisine is well-known for its delicious and abundant flavours. The 22-day itinerary gives you a solid foundation for your first visit to Vietnam, with in-deep adventure trips on high mountains and caves.

Included/Exclude

  • Hotel/Homestay nights: 21
  • Breakfast: 21 - Lunch: 2 - Dinner: 0
  • Transports: Public bus # Private car # Boat/Cruise 
  • Domestic Flight
  • Activities: Swimming, kayaking, biking, trekking
  • Other: Single traveling visa into Vietnam
  • Travel adequate insurances
  • Gratuities for tour guides and drivers
  • Single hotel room
  • International flights with airport taxes
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, drinks, telephone
  • Other services not specified in the itinerary

Tour Amenities

Accepts Credit Cards
Free Coupons
Outdoor Seating
Reservations
Restaurant
Wireless Internet

Tour Plan

Included Experiences
* View the Notre Dame Cathedral, General Post Office, Reunification Palace and Opera House
Free time Add-ons
* Saigon tour at night

Known as both Ho Chi Minh City and Saigon, this vibrant city in southern Vietnam stands out as one of Southeast Asia's most captivating and dynamic destinations. Seamlessly blending modernity with old-world charm, Saigon is an essential stop on any journey through Vietnam.
On your first day, you'll dive right into Saigon's must-visit attractions, including the Reunification Palace, the Opera House (formerly the National Assembly of South Vietnam), Hotel de Ville, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the impressive French-style Saigon Post Office.For an unforgettable evening, consider the optional Saigon night tour by scooter motorcycle. This tour promises an adventure that will leave a lasting impression. It's the quintessential nighttime exploration of Saigon, bringing together the best of its cuisine, culture, and nightlife. You'll join the bustling traffic of Saigon from the back of a motorbike, making stops at some of the city's finest street-side eateries, immersing yourself in the local nightlife just like a true Saigonese. It's an opportunity to connect with the people, absorb the culture, and savor the authentic flavors of Saigon.
Meal: Welcome lunch or dinner
Accommodation: Hotel 3* in Hochiminh city

Free time Add-ons
* Ben Thanh market, Chinatown and street foods
* Evening walking Nguyen Hue street with Café Apartment
* Backpacker street with coffee shops live music and raucous bars

Today, you have the opportunity to explore Saigon at your own pace, and we have some great suggestions for attractions to discover. Start your day by visiting the charming Tan Dinh Church, a magnificent structure built in 1876, blending Gothic and Renaissance elements and featuring a striking 60-meter-high bell tower. Nearby, you can explore the grandeur of Vinh Nghiem Pagoda, one of Saigon's largest pagodas. Continue your journey along Nguyen Hue Boulevard to marvel at the exquisite Ho Chi Minh City Hall. Don't miss the unique experience of Café Apartment at No. 42 Nguyen Hue Street, an intriguing building complex filled with cafes and shops, each occupying a former apartment unit. It's a fun place to explore, offering surprises on every level. For shopping enthusiasts, a visit to the bustling Ben Thanh Market is a must, where over 3,000 stalls await, offering a wide range of local products, souvenirs, and clothing.In the evening, Saigon comes alive, and you have several exciting options. Venture to the vibrant Pham Ngu Lao Street, known as "Backpacker Street," or explore the bustling Bui Vien Street, both teeming with hostels, bars, pubs, go-go bars, and souvenir shops. It's a lively and tourist-friendly area where you can enjoy affordable drinks and meals while immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. If you're up for it, you can also consider a visit to the iconic Bitexco Financial Tower in the city's business district. This towering skyscraper, standing at 262 meters, offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Ho Chi Minh City from its 49th-floor SkyDeck, providing vistas of the city center, Saigon River, and even the outer districts, depending on visibility. To top it off, the 50th and 51st floors host restaurants, allowing you to savor a meal with a breathtaking view.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel 3* in Hochiminh city

Included Experiences
* Explore the region’s canals in a traditional rowing boat

Leaving the bustling cityscape behind, you embark on a journey to the serene natural beauty of the Mekong Delta. As you leave the urban sprawl, the landscape undergoes a remarkable transformation, with concrete buildings giving way to vast green fields and intricate waterways. The Mekong Delta, often referred to as the "Rice Bowl" of Vietnam, unfolds as a mesmerizing maze of interconnected rivers, canals, and idyllic islands. Exploring this region typically commences with a tranquil sampan boat ride along the meandering waterways, passing beneath the graceful fronds of water coconut trees. The delta's landscape is characterized by narrow plains and dotted with charming islets bearing names like Tortoise Islet and Unicorn Islet.

During your visit, you'll have the opportunity to gain insights into the daily life of local communities and immerse yourself in their rich culture, including experiencing their traditional folk music and savoring their delectable cuisine. As you venture along narrow paths, you may find yourself wandering through lush fruit orchards, where you can indulge in an array of freshly picked tropical fruits. For those seeking more adventure, cycling alongside the picturesque waterways is an option, or you can simply unwind in a hammock, taking in the serene ambiance of this enchanting region.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel 3* in Hochiminh city

You'll be taking a shared transfer via a Limousine bus from Ho Chi Minh City to the coastal town of Phan Thiet/Mui Ne. Mui Ne offers a splendid beach retreat, boasting numerous sandy shores that stretch along the town and are lined with a variety of resorts. It's a hotspot for kiteboarding and windsurfing enthusiasts, benefiting from the consistent onshore winds. Additionally, you'll find other natural attractions like the captivating Red Sand Dunes, the more distant White Sand Dunes, and the charming Fairy Stream meandering through a beautifully eroded canyon.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel or resort 4* in Mui Ne

Free time Add-ons
* Sand dunes sunrise or sunset private jeep tour
* Surf on the sea with locals

Explore the stunning Mui Ne sand dunes during either sunrise or sunset to witness the perfect play of light on the landscape. While scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities are limited here, Mui Ne is the place to be when Nha Trang and Hoi An are experiencing rainfall. From August to December, surf enthusiasts can catch some great waves, while windsurfers can make the most of the strong gales, especially between late October and late April when substantial swells make conditions exciting. Kitesurfing has also become immensely popular, with countless kites decorating the endless horizon. And if all of this seems too strenuous, you can always relax on the beach and enjoy watching others indulge in these activities.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel or resort 4* in Mui Ne

Following lunch, you'll return to Ho Chi Minh City via a transfer bus. Once you've checked into your hotel, you have the freedom to plan your evening as you wish.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel 3* in Hochiminh city

Free time Add-ons
* Enjoy evening paddle tour on Thu Bon river with light latern

Hoi An, a picturesque town nestled along the banks of the Thu Bon River, holds a rich history as one of Southeast Asia's significant port cities. This heritage is beautifully reflected in its elegant Chinese houses and vibrant temples that adorn the town center. You have the opportunity to explore the interiors of these houses and temples, and don't miss the renowned Japanese Covered Bridge, a well-preserved wooden arch bridge. Stepping into Hoi An feels like a journey back in time. UNESCO has rightfully recognized its cultural significance by declaring it a World Heritage Site.You can spend a leisurely afternoon cycling through the charming streets of Hoi An and then continue your exploration on foot through its labyrinthine alleyways. Hoi An offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler: hidden historical gems within the town, a multitude of ancient houses, delectable restaurants serving various cuisines, vibrant markets, exquisite pagodas, tailor shops, traditional crafts, visits to fishing and vegetable villages, and pristine beaches.
As night falls, the car-free center of town transforms into a captivating spectacle with hundreds of colorful lanterns illuminating the streets. Don't miss the chance to savor the enchanting view of the river while sitting on a terrace surrounded by countless floating candles.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel 3* in Hoi An

Included Experiences
* River boat tour of palm forest rowed by locals
* Visit of Tra Que vegetable village near Hoi An town, famed for its avenues of herbs.
* Lunch with local family and foot soak and massage with local herbs
* Learn how to whip up fresh Vietnamese food with a Hoi An cooking class
* See “Hoi An Memories” show


Embark on a full-day guided excursion into the rural life surrounding Hoi An, where you'll delve into unique local experiences. Your day begins with a delightful basket boat ride amidst the lush palm forest of Bay Mau, an acclaimed eco-tourism area in Hoi An. Here, you can immerse yourself in the serene coconut forest, witness the captivating basket dance, partake in thrilling boat races, and savor delicious local delicacies.
Next, your journey takes you to Tra Que Vegetable Village, the primary vegetable supplier for the region and its neighboring areas. Here, you'll step into the shoes of a genuine farmer, guided by the locals who will teach you the art of soil preparation, seed planting, crop watering, and vegetable harvesting. You'll have the chance to enjoy a heartwarming lunch with a local family, relishing dishes crafted from the very vegetables you've picked. Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to learn the art of cooking fresh Vietnamese cuisine through a Hoi An cooking class.
As you explore the area, take a moment to visit several silk shops and tailors that offer quick custom-made clothing. Hoi An boasts a distinctive feature that sets it apart – all the fashion shops here have skilled artisans on-site. They will assist in designing, crafting, and catering to your clothing needs. In just a few hours, you'll have a beautifully tailored outfit, a delightful keepsake to commemorate your journey.
In the evening, your adventure continues with the "Hoi An Memories" show, a traditional Ao Dai performance accompanied by mesmerizing lights and sounds that narrate the captivating history of Hoi An.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel 3* in Hoi An

Included Experiences
* Visit Marble mountains, Cham museum and Dragon bridge
* Discover Hue's hidden charm on a local cyclo ride
Free time Add-ons
* Listen to court music and local folk songs


Leaving Hoi An on your way to Hue, you'll embark on an engaging journey with intriguing stops along the route. Approximately midway between Hoi An and Da Nang, a cluster of five limestone and marble hills gracefully emerges from the coastal plains – known as the Marble Mountains. While all these hills are a captivating sight, Mount Thuy offers the opportunity for a climb. Ascending the stairs, you'll encounter shrines, vibrant pagodas, temples, and altars nestled within caves. Take a leisurely stroll along the narrow, shaded pathways. At the mountain's base, a village thrives, where talented artisans craft exquisite sculptures from marble.
Continuing your journey, you'll visit the Cham Museum in Da Nang, an enriching stop along the way. As you proceed, don't miss the chance for some photos on the Dragon Bridge. As the name suggests, this remarkable bridge, shaped like a dragon, stretches across the Han River, spanning an impressive 666 meters in length and 37.5 meters in width.
Hue, once the imperial capital of the Vietnamese Empire from 1802 to 1945, is situated along the Perfume River, dividing the city into two distinct parts. This historic city boasts a rich heritage and is adorned with numerous historical monuments, including the awe-inspiring Imperial Citadel. For a delightful evening activity, consider taking a cyclo ride along Hue's illuminated boulevard, with the picturesque Trang Tien Bridge adding to the enchanting atmosphere.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel 3* in Hue

Included Experiences
* Visit 19th century Hue Imperial Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda and Nguyen Dynasty mausoleum
Free time Add-ons
* Dong Ba market and local foods


Hue offers a wealth of engaging activities primarily centered around its illustrious imperial history. Among the many remarkable landmarks, the most prominent is the Đại Nội Citadel. This immense citadel, casting a shadow over modern Hue, served as the seat of power for the Nguyen Dynasty emperors. Venturing beyond the Imperial City and tracing the banks of the Perfume River, you'll arrive at the beloved Thien Mu Pagoda. Renowned for its seven-story pagoda, this temple, named the Pagoda of the Celestial Lady, is a historic Buddhist sanctuary adorned with numerous Buddha images and statues. Ascending the stairs that ascend from the river, you'll be treated to picturesque views of both the river and the city from the pagoda gardens. Following your visit to the pagoda, you'll explore the mausoleums of Emperor Tu Duc, Khai Dinh, and Minh Mang, all part of the Nguyen Dynasty's regal legacy.
For an authentic local experience, a visit to the vibrant Dong Ba Market beckons, where the residents of Hue engage in their daily shopping routines.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel 3* in Hue

Included Experiences
* Experience worthy-visit cave in Quang Binh

Departing from Hue and heading towards Quang Binh, a journey of approximately 3.5 hours via private car, you'll arrive in a region that, despite its relatively modest size of just over 8,000 square kilometers, boasts a remarkable array of Vietnam's most exquisite landscapes. Quang Binh is renowned as the "Land of Caves," boasting a collection of over 400 caves, both large and small, including the likes of Son Doong, Paradise, Phong Nha, and Én cave, as well as pristine and picturesque beaches.
In the afternoon, your exploration will lead you to the awe-inspiring Phong Nha Cave, a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site and a true marvel of nature. Spanning an impressive 7 kilometers, this colossal cave houses a captivating assortment of rock formations, including stalactites and stalagmites. The cave's entrance measures 20-25 meters in width, stands at about 10 meters in height, and plunges to a depth of 83 meters. Its intricate structure encompasses 14 grottoes, numerous interconnected chambers, and even hosts an underground river, considered the largest of its kind in the world.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel/Homestay 3* in Quang Binh

Free time Add-ons
* Explore the Elephant cave and trek to Ma Da valley

Your journey continues as you venture into the heart of Phong Nha Ke-Bang National Park, embarking on this adventure via a shared shuttle bus. As you delve deeper into the lush jungle, you'll ascend towards the entrance of Elephant Cave, initiating your trek along a jungle trail. Along the way, you'll navigate river crossings and skillfully traverse fallen trees. Your exploration will lead you into the depths of Ma Da Valley, culminating in the breathtaking sight of the azure Ma Da Crystal Lake. Here, you'll have the opportunity to take a refreshing swim, engage in some exhilarating cliff jumping, and savor a delectable Jungle BBQ. As the day winds down, you'll establish your campsite, indulging in a hearty dinner and immersing yourself in the captivating ambiance of the jungle.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Outdoor camping in Quang Binh

Free time Add-ons
* Trek and swim into Tra Ang Cave

Following breakfast, your trek leads you deep into the pristine wilderness, guiding you towards the unspoiled Tra-Ang cave. Here, you'll embark on an awe-inspiring 600-meter swim through its mysterious interior. Relish another delectable BBQ meal before conquering the ascent over colossal rocks to reach the cave's entrance. Your journey continues as you hike back to the HCM trail, marking the conclusion of this remarkable adventure.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel/Homestay 3* in Quang Binh

You'll have an entire day to unwind by the pool or explore the nearby areas on a bike. In the late afternoon, you'll catch a flight to Hanoi, a captivating city steeped in history, charm, and traces of its French colonial heritage. Upon your arrival at Noi Bai airport, you will be transported to the downtown area and subsequently to your hotel. You can then check in and indulge in the comforts of your accommodation.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel 3* in Hanoi

Included Experiences
* Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi Old quarter and French quarter
* Experience of Hanoi street foods

Begin your day in the captivating city of Hanoi, where traditional Vietnamese architecture gracefully blends with modernization. Embark on a morning guided tour of Hanoi's highlights using a 4-hour hop-on-hop-off bus. Explore the ancient Temple of Literature, a historical Confucian temple honoring scholars and students. Visit the Presidential Palace, the Memorial site of Hỏa Lò Prison (ironically known as the "Hanoi Hilton"), Hanoi Opera House, St. Joseph's Cathedral, and top-notch museums. In the afternoon, venture into Hanoi's Old Quarter, where you can immerse yourself in the bustling streets and vibrant atmosphere. While the initial chaos might be overwhelming, you'll quickly find its charm. Adjacent to this area is the French Quarter to the southeast, offering a striking contrast in architectural styles. Hoàn Kiếm Lake, situated between these two quarters, serves as the city's geographical and social heart. Locals gather here for activities like tai chi, and you'll find intriguing attractions nearby, including the Temple of the Jade Mountain, where a preserved giant turtle resides among ancient artifacts.

Late afternoon, you take a journey to Ha Giang via a shuttle bus. Upon arrival of Ha Giang town (320 km/6 driving hours), you have the night to settle in a local hotel or homestay there.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel 3* in Ha Giang

Included Experiences
* Conquer the rocky mountain heights and quite rugged road in Vietnam

Ha Giang, located in the remote northern region of Vietnam, boasts a mesmerizing landscape characterized by limestone pinnacles and granite formations that never cease to amaze visitors. The province's far north, home to the Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark, showcases some of Vietnam's most breathtaking scenery.
Early morning your exploration commences, taking you across a vast rocky plateau that stretches through districts like Quan Ba and Yen Minh. Along the way, you'll be captivated by the serpentine twists and turns of the road, with highlights including the Tham Ma gradient, resembling a delicate silk ribbon meandering along the mountain's contours.

As your vehicle navigates the winding roads hugging the cliffs, you'll be treated to awe-inspiring vistas of the expansive rocky plateau, adorned with rugged terraced fields, all viewed from the vantage point of the "cat’s ear rock hole." This promises an incredible and adventurous journey along Vietnam's challenging yet utterly fantastic roads, culminating in an overnight stay in the charming village of Lo Lo Chai or Dong Van town.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Homestay 3* in Lolochai/Dong Van

Included Experiences
*
Visit Dong Van ancient town

* Conquer Ma Pi Leng Pass
* Row on the river Nho Que and admire Tu San canyon
Free time Add-ons
* Experience of bathing and soaking in medicinal leaves of ethnic people


Following breakfast, your morning will be dedicated to an extensive trek through the unspoiled mountainous terrain, allowing you to immerse yourself in the pristine landscapes and experience the authentic culture of the local ethnic community residing in the village of Lolochai or Lung Cu. In the afternoon, your journey continues towards the ancient town of Dong Van. Along the way, you'll conquer the awe-inspiring Ma Pi Leng Pass, renowned for its steep slopes and winding bends. This pass stands as one of Vietnam's four most renowned great peaks, boasting an elevation of 2,000 meters above sea level and serving as a panoramic checkpoint for breathtaking views. Upon reaching the ferry pier, your boat will navigate the waters of the Nho Que River, following its course alongside the mountainside. You'll also have the opportunity to explore the enigmatic Tu San Canyon. Your overnight stay will be in the charming town of Meo Vac.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Homestay 3* in Meo Vac

After breakfast, you'll embark on another day of travel. Today's journey will be quite challenging as you navigate a lengthy and winding road with numerous bends and curves. You'll return to Hanoi in the late evening

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel 3* in Hanoi

In the afternoon, you'll drive to Hai Phong and then take a ferry to reach Cat Ba Island. Cat Ba Island, the largest among the 367 islands covering 260 square kilometers in the southeastern part of Lan Ha Bay in Northern Vietnam, retains the breathtaking and rugged characteristics of Ha Long Bay. Cat Ba Island has emerged as a hub for adventure tourism in Vietnam, offering numerous nature-based activities. You can partake in activities such as kayaking and boat cruises in Lan Ha Bay, trekking through the national park, cycling around the island's mountains, and enjoying the splendid sandy beaches like Cat Co One, Two, or Three, as well as visiting offshore private islands.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel 4* in Cat Ba

Free time Add-ons
*
Explore Lan Ha Bay by vessel and local fishing village

You have two full days with no fixed plans, offering you ample opportunities to relax by the pool or on the beach. Alternatively, if you prefer to explore, Cat Ba is a peaceful island with minimal traffic, making it convenient for scooter excursions. With a scooter, you can stop and explore at your leisure. Here are some suggestions: consider visiting Lan Ha Bay and Viet Hai ancient village, a centuries-old fishing community nestled within the jungle, surrounded by the towering peaks of Cat Ba National Park.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel 4* in Cat Ba

Upon checking out of your hotel, you'll be transferred to either Hanoi or Noi Bai Airport for your flight back to your home country, marking the end of your tour.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: None

Tour Information

Max Guests

4

Min Age

6

Tour Location

Languages Support

Last Minute Deals