Step off the tourist trail on this 12-day Vietnam group tour, designed to show you the country’s real side. Travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi, exploring vibrant cities, quiet countryside and stunning natural landscapes along the way. Taste iconic street food, cycle through rural villages, stay in traditional homestays and cruise the emerald waters of Bai Tu Long Bay. With expert local guides, included experiences and time to soak it all in, this Vietnam group tour balances culture, adventure and connection — all shared with an epic group of travellers.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Xin chào Vietnam. Your adventure kicks off with an airport pickup and transfer into Ho Chi Minh City. Once checked in, you’ve got time to relax, explore or ease into the city vibes. This evening, meet your group over a welcome dinner and toast the start of the journey. Wrap up the night with a rooftop swim and skyline views.
Get your first real taste of Vietnam with an orientation walk through the buzzing streets of Ho Chi Minh City. Wander markets, local neighbourhoods and hidden corners as your guide introduces you to daily life in Saigon. Later, join locals in the park for a fun game of foot badminton. After some downtime, head to the station and board your overnight sleeper train north to Da Nang.
Arrive in central Vietnam and freshen up before the afternoon adventure. Head into Hoi An’s ancient town and explore the lantern-lit streets, browse markets or visit a local tailor to create something custom.
This morning, cycle through the peaceful countryside of Cam Kim Island, passing rice paddies, farmland and village homes. Later, take part in a hands-on soap-making workshop that transforms used cooking oil into eco-friendly products. Around sunset you will stand up paddle down the river towards Hoi An’s lantern town, seeing the city’s laid-back charm from a different angle.
After breakfast, hit the road for one of Vietnam’s most scenic drives. Travel along the iconic Hai Van Pass, winding between mountains and coastline with epic viewpoints along the way. Step back in time at the Imperial Citadel and enjoy lunch before rolling into Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital.
Explore Hue from a local perspective, starting in Thuy Bieu village. Visit a traditional garden house and join a hands-on cooking class where you’ll prepare classic Hue dishes. In the afternoon you’ll visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda and then have the afternoon to yourself to spend as you wish. After some rest, board the overnight train north to Ninh Binh.
Arrive in the north and travel into the lush landscapes of Pu Luong. Settle into your homestay in the Pu Luong Valley, then head out on a boat in Thung Nang, taking in the stunning scenary.
Hike up to Hieu Waterfall this morning, trekking through bamboo forests and rice terraces before cooling off in the cascading pools. You then have the afternoon to relax after a busy day of hiking, explore the village and take in your surroundings.
Say goodbye to your homestay hosts and travel to Hanoi. After checking into your boutique hotel, head out in the evening for a guided street food tour, sampling Hanoi’s most iconic dishes and hidden foodie spots.
Leave the city behind and head to Bai Tu Long Bay, a quieter and equally stunning alternative to Ha Long Bay. Board your overnight cruise and sail between towering limestone karsts. Visit hidden caves, kayak around Cap La Island and enjoy sunset drinks on deck before dinner onboard.
Start the morning with Tai Chi on deck as the bay drifts by. After brunch, explore Thien Canh Son Cave before returning to Hanoi around midday. The afternoon is free to explore, shop or relax.
Your Vietnam adventure comes to an end today. Say goodbye to your group and continue onward travels or head home, with help from your guide to organise next steps.
The Vietnam Group Tour includes 11 nights accommodation.
To make your booking, choose your departure date and any optional extras you'd like. Not sure about extras, or need extra accommodation before or after your tour? No worries, just let us know later by email.
How the price works: the tour price is shown in the booking panel, then a 1.75% online booking fee is added at checkout — that's the price you see on the tour page. You'll see both lines before you pay. No card surcharges, and nothing is added after that.
Once you've booked, we'll send your booking confirmation along with important information about your tour.
Travelling solo? Great! Most of the people you meet on tour will also be on a solo adventure! If you are curious as to who you could be travelling with, or want to make some friends before arriving, join our Travel Community and reach out to your potential new travel mates!
Booking with ULTIMATE is easy! We take payments securely via Mastercard or Visa Credit and Debit Card and we will charge you in Australian Currency (AUD). Your deposit is flexible and if you can no longer travel, you can save your deposit for a later trip or destination if you notify us 30 days before your scheduled tour date.
Making your booking is easy. Choose a date below, and if you have any questions about extras, deposits, or meeting other travellers, just get in touch — we're happy to help.
Where does the tour start and finish?
Begins in Ho Chi Minh City (fly into Tan Son Nhat International Airport, SGN, for arrival transfer). Finishes in Hanoi (depart from Noi Bai International Airport, HAN). Recommend arriving in HCMC on or before Day 1, and departing Hanoi on the final day or the day after.
Who will I be travelling with?
Like-minded travellers from all over the world; group sizes vary but stay under 30 people.
Do I need vaccinations?
Comprehensive guidance covering Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Tetanus, MMR, Flu and Malaria; recommend consulting a GP 6-8 weeks before departure.
Can you help me organise flights & insurance?
They recommend Skyscanner.com for flight comparisons and offer a recommended travel insurance provider.
Do I need a visa?
It’s your responsibility to obtain the correct visa. Three options: embassy application, visa on arrival, or e-visa online. UK, France, Spain, Germany and Italy citizens may not require a visa for stays under 15 days.
Can I get picked up from the airport if I arrive before Day 1?
Not offered at this time; suggest downloading taxi apps Grab or GoJek.
What time should I arrive?
Strongly recommend arriving before 3:00pm on Day 1, allowing time to reach accommodation, settle in, and join the welcome dinner.
Dietary requirements
They do their best to accommodate dietary requirements, though can’t guarantee every requirement can be met, especially in remote areas.
Should I bring hiking shoes?
Yes, recommended as there is hiking in Pu Luong.
What time can I fly out on Day 12?
Recommend the earliest departure no earlier than 11:00 AM, allowing 1-1.5 hours to travel to the airport.
Can I book any extra nights with my trip?
Yes, add additional nights before or after your trip to your booking at checkout.
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