Wander to Vietnam (Feb 2024)
The wonders of Vietnam await! History, nature, food, traditional culture and more...this unique small group tour is ready show you it all!
Interact with people everywhere we go and gain a first-hand understanding of the local culture
Take a jeep ride out to Ke San for a unique trip into Vietnam's countryside
Spend two full days in the peaceful and charming town of Hoi An
Embark on a memorable overnight cruise on the stunning Ha Long and Bai Tu Long Bays
Journey into the Phong Na cave system, exploring spectacular caverns that few people visit
Enjoy some of the world's best food, including a cooking class with a renowned local chef
Soak up the historic and cultural vibes of bustling Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City
Tour the grand imperial city of Hue, both by moto and river boat
Wandering Earl Tours is going back to Vietnam!
We’re extremely excited to bring back our unique trips to this wonderful destination. And we’ve packed this itinerary with all kinds of rewarding activities that will ensure this is truly a trip to remember!
You’ll visit so many great places – Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the quaint town of Hoi An, the imperial city of Hue, the picturesque Mai Chau Valley and you’ll spend a night on a boat out in the gorgeous Ha Long and Bai Tuu Long Bays. Your days will be filled with super fun guided tours, visits to markets, trips to local villages and time at the most intriguing historical sights.
Are you ready for the food? It’s as delicious as it gets and you’ll sample it all, from northern delicacies to traditional dishes of the south. We’ve lined up a very special cooking class too, as well as local workshops, some unique transportation in Hue, the most beautiful pagodas and temples and plenty of opportunities to interact with people everywhere we go.
Vietnam has so much to offer and on this trip, we’re going to take you all the way from the north to the south. As a result, you’ll gain a most complete understanding of this captivating country, while having an absolute blast in the process!
Reserve now!
Choose an option:
- 1Feb 18Ho Chi Minh City (arrival day)Ho Chi Minh City (arrival day)Arrival dayIncluded: DinnerUpon arrival, you’ll be picked up at the airport and taken to our hotel in the city center. After getting settled and having a good rest, we’ll start off with an evening orientation and group dinner at one of the city’s great restaurants where we'll enjoy on our first Vietnamese meal.
- 2Feb 19Ho Chi Minh CityHo Chi Minh CityHighlights: Full-day tour of Ho Chi Minh City, cultural acrobatic showIncluded: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerToday we're in for an excellent adventure as we explore Ho Chi Minh's vibrant energy. We'll use a unique combination of a traditional cyclo ride and a leisurely walking tour in order to explore several different neighborhoods full of historical sights, temples, markets and more. Along the way, we'll also have a chance to sample some of the best Southern Vietnamese cuisine. In the evening, we’ll attend an incredible cultural show at the city’s famed opera house, where we'll be wowed by impressive acrobatics and dynamic choreography while traditional Vietnamese instruments provide the beautiful musical backdrop.
- 3Feb 20Ho Chi Minh City » Da Nang » Hoi AnHo Chi Minh City » Da Nang » Hoi AnHighlights: Flight to Danang, arrival in Hoi An, markets and cultureIncluded: Breakfast, DinnerAfter a quick 1.5 hour flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Danang, we'll transfer 1 hour by private vans to the quaint and charming town of Hoi An. As we arrive in this endearing destination, you'll immediately be drawn in by its relaxed atmosphere, inspiring architecture, cultural gems and tantalizing cuisine. After settling into our centrally located accommodations, we'll venture out for lunch and a coffee at one of the town's famous traditional cafes. We'll then discover the vibrant lanes and neighborhoods that line the river, soaking up the lively and truly appealing ambiance.
- 4Feb 21Hoi AnHoi AnHighlights: Full walking tour of Hoi An, silk workshopIncluded: Breakfast, LunchAfter a leisurely breakfast we'll immerse ourselves in the charm and vibrancy of Hoi An as we spend the day exploring the town on foot. We'll start off by visiting an old merchant's house, checking out the bustling Hoi An market and admiring the intricate details of a stunning Chinese temple and the iconic Japanese Bridge. As we make our way through the city, we'll be transported to a world where the rich history and cultural traditions of Vietnam meet the unique influences of French colonial architecture, resulting in a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. In the afternoon, we'll try our hand at lantern making and silk weaving during a hands-on workshop. From learning about the silkworms to the ancient traditions of silk weaving, this experience will give us an in-depth appreciation for this region's rich history and artistry. Dinner will be at a wonderful local restaurant off the main trail, which happens to be one of Wandering Earl's most favorite restaurants in the world!
- 5Feb 22Hoi AnHoi AnHighlights: Special cooking class, free time in Hoi AnIncluded: Breakfast, LunchToday we'll embark on a culinary adventure as we learn to prepare some of the most iconic dishes that Hoi An has to offer. From the mouth-watering cao lau noodles to the fragrant banh mi sandwich and the heavenly com ga (chicken rice), we'll discover the secrets behind the flavors that make Hoi An's cuisine so renowned. At a local cooking school, we'll be guided by an expert chef who will demonstrate the preparation of these traditional delicacies before we roll up our sleeves and put our own skills to the test. Afterward, we'll all sit down together for lunch and relish the tasty dishes we've made. With the rest of the day at leisure, you'll have plenty of time to explore more of the town's charming sights and sounds as well.
- 6Feb 23Hoi An » Danang » HueHoi An » Danang » HueHighlights: Drive to Hue, lunch in a nunnery, Buddhist pagodaIncluded: Breakfast, LunchWe'll bid farewell to the beautiful town of Hoi An and embark on a 3-hour drive to the ancient imperial city of Hue. During the ride, we'll make several stops in order to take in the impressive scenery of central Vietnam's coastal regions. Upon arrival in Hue, we'll begin our visit to this most fascinating town with a special experience - a freshly prepared lunch just for our group at a local Buddhist nunnery. After checking into our hotel, we'll head out again in order to visit the stunning and historically significant Thien Muc Pagoda, overlooking the Perfume River.
- 7Feb 24HueHueHighlights: Tour of Hue's history and culture, Perfume River cruiseIncluded: Breakfast, DinnerToday we'll kick off the day with a full guided tour unlike any other. From the back of motorcyles, we'll explore the countryside, war history, imperial history and the buddhist culture. We'll learn how to make incense, visit a hidden colosseum and learn a local craft straight from the masters themselves. We'll discover the Imperial Citadel, Forbidden Purple City and the Imperial Tombs, and we'll also embark on an evening cruise along the Perfume River aboard a traditional dragon boat. We'll take in the sights and sounds of the city from a new perspective as we enjoy a dinner on board the boat.
- 8Feb 25Hue » Khe XanhHue » Khe XanhHighlights: Jeep ride through the beautiful countryside, Khe XanhIncluded: Breakfast, DinnerWe start early this morning and divide the group into two 1960's jeeps that were left in Vietnam from the war. We'll then all head inland towards the Ho Chi Minh Trail along dramatic mountain scenery and traditional villages, stopping at a waterfall for a swim and enjoying a simple lunch. With the tops down on our jeeps, we'll experience Vietnam as few others ever get to see it. In the evening, we'll arrive in the town of Khe Xanh, well-known as a dangerous base from the war. We'll settle into our accommodation, sit down for a basic Vietnamese style dinner and enjoy relaxing night in this tranquil region.
- 9Feb 26Khe Xanh » Phong NaKhe Xanh » Phong NaHighlights: Vinh Moc Tunnels, arrival at the Phong Nha National ParkIncluded: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAfter visiting the Khe Xahn base in the morning, we'll load back into our jeeps and head towards the Vinh Moc Tunnels, passing by some of Vietnam's lesser known beach areas. The Vinh Moc Tunnels is an extensive underground network of tunnels that the Vietnamese lived in for up to 6 months at a time. As we wind back to the coast, we'll soon reach the magnificent Phong Nha National Park, where limestone peaks rise from the rice fields in some of Vietnam's most dramatic scenery. Time permitting, we'll take a walk through part of the park in order to stretch in nature before a good night's sleep.
- 10Feb 27Phong NhaPhong NhaHighlights: Phong Nha National Park, cave explorationIncluded: BreakfastToday we're ready to explore the very much off-the-beaten-path Phong Nha National Park, which is home to largest cave network in the world. We'll enter caves that have been carved out of the sides of the limestone karsts, walking among the stalactites and stalagmites, along seemingly endless collections of tunnels. With underground rivers and ponds, as well as hidden beaches beneath the Earth's surface, this experience is absolutely bound to impress! There will also be time for some light hiking among the jungle-clad mountains of this unique location. After a day of nature, we'll head back to the hotel for a rest and dinner.
- 11Feb 28Phong Nha » Dong Hoi » HanoiPhong Nha » Dong Hoi » HanoiHighlights: Flight to Hanoi, Drive back to HanoiIncluded: BreakfastOff to Hanoi we go! Today's travels will involve a 1 hour drive to the Dong Hoi Airport and a 1 hour flight to Vietnam's capital city of Hanoi. We'll transfer from the Hanoi Airport to our hotel in the city center, for our first glimpse of this grand city. After we take a break at the hotel, we'll spend the late afternoon and evening out and about, visiting the gardens, lakes and temples that will bring Hanoi to life. For dinner, it's time to sample the famously delicious cuisine of Northern Vietnam at one of the best local restaurants in the city.
- 12Feb 29HanoiHanoiHighlights: Full city tour of fascinating HanoiIncluded: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerToday we'll kick off the day with a tour of Hanoi's Old Quarters. We'll take our time strolling along the winding streets, enjoying the energy and history of this lively district. Along the way, we'll visit some of the city's most iconic landmarks, such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Bach Ma Temple. As we make our way around, we'll also swing by the Dong Xuan Market, where we'll wander and explore the endless stalls, each packed with all sorts of fresh produce and specialty items unique to the area. No visit to Hanoi is complete without trying the famous egg coffee, so we'll definitely grab a cup and savor the rich flavors. As the day starts to wind down, we'll take a break to recharge before diving into a classic North Vietnamese dinner that'll be the cherry on top of an awesome day.
- 13Mar 1Hanoi » Ha Long BayHanoi » Ha Long BayHighlights: Overnight boat cruise in Ha Long BayIncluded: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAfter breakfast, we'll leave Hanoi behind and begin our trip to one of Vietnam's most captivating natural marvels - Ha Long Bay. Our adventure involves boarding a traditional junk boat (much more comfortable than that sounds!) where we'll start with a seafood lunch while cruising along the vibrant blue waters of the bay, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. During our expedition, we'll visit surreal coastal caves, swim in the jade waters, stop at nearby Bai Tu Long Bay and marvel at the sunset over the magnificent landscape. After a day filled with such natural beauty and great activities, you'll be able to unwind on our boat, with an optional traditional massage before dinner is served. We'll then spend the night on board the boat, in our comfortable cabins.
- 14Mar 2Ha Long Bay » HanoiHa Long Bay » HanoiHighlights: Return to Hanoi, farewell dinnerIncluded: Breakfast, DinnerWe'll start the day in the tranquil waters of Lan Ha Bay, surrounded by even more of the region's remarkable scenery. After breakfast, you'll have the option to hop on a kayak and paddle through a nearby lagoon, allowing you one more chance to enjoy the calming effects of this destination. Next up, we'll visit a floating fishing farm where you'll learn about the traditional lifestyle of the local fishermen in Lan Ha Bay. Afterwards, we'll bid farewell to our boat and make our way back to Hanoi. Upon arrival in Hanoi, we'll check in to our hotel before heading out for our farewell dinner as this magical two-week trip comes to an end.
- 15Mar 3Hanoi (departure day)Hanoi (departure day)Highlights: Departure dayIncluded: BreakfastYou will be picked up at the hotel by a private driver who will take you to the airport for your departing flight.
Tour Essentials
Medium Physical Level
While the tour itself is not very strenuous, please note that it can involve the following: somewhat long days, a good amount of walking, being in the sun in potentially hot temperatures, long journeys, early morning wake-ups and other similar scenarios.
Accommodation
We'll stay in 3* and 4* hotels, excellent guesthouses and a comfortable cruising boat on Vietnam’s most beautiful bay. Accommodation is mid-range and all rooms have a private bathroom. There is a maximum of 6 single rooms available, offered on a first come-first served basis. The remainder of the rooms will be shared. Solo travelers will be paired together, two travelers per room in two single beds.
Transport
Everywhere we go, you'll ride in comfort in our well-appointed vans. We'll also take two internal flights.
Meals
Breakfast every day, 7 lunches and 9 dinners are included. With included meals, some will be served family style and other times you will be able to order anything you wish from the menu. All dietary restrictions can be accommodated.
Sustainability
As with all of our trips, we aim to offer as sustainable an experience as we can. Reusable water bottles and shopping bags are provided to all guests, trash is recycled where possible and we avoid mass tourism activities that cause harm to the environment and/or do not benefit local communities.
Small Groups
This tour requires a minimum of 8 participants and has a maximum of 12 participants in order to ensure the best small group tour experience. With such a small group, you'll be able to enjoy unique, rewarding activities that would not be accessible with more people. That's the kind of trip we love to offer!
What's included
Included
- Wandering Earl Tours Expert Tour Leader
- Small group (maximum 12 participants)
- Accommodation (13 nights – 3*/4* hotels, guesthouses and a cruising boat)
- Transportation within Vietnam (vans, internal flights and a overnight cruising boat)
- Local English-speaking guides in each destination
- All mentioned activities and entrance fees
- Breakfast every day, 7 lunches and 9 dinners
- Water throughout the trip
- Gratuities at hotels/included meals
- All airport transfers
Not Included
- Flights to/from Vietnam
- Passport/visa fees
- Meals and activities not mentioned
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Other gratuities
