Undiscovered Vietnam and Laos 14 Days 13 Nights
Overview
- Tour code: VL14D-1
- Itinerary: 14 days 13 nights
- Depart from: Ho Chi Minh city
- Finish in: Luang Prabang
- Destinations: Ho Chi Minh city , Ben Tre (Mekong Delta), Da Nang, Hoi An Old Town , Hanoi, Halong Bay (Surprise Cave, Titov Island), Ninh Binh (Trang An - Bai Dinh Pagoda), Hanoi, Luang Prabang (Pak Ou Cave, Kuang Si Waterfall), Luang Prabang
Experience the captivating "Vietnam and Laos Tour 14 Days" and explore the rich history, culture, landscapes, cuisine, and heritage sites of these two remarkable countries. This popular tour is ideal for travelers due to their close proximity and shared border of over 2000km. Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese and Laotian gastronomy, renowned throughout Asia.
Highlights of the tour include:
- Vibrant Ho Chi Minh City: Explore significant landmarks and savor a variety of culinary delights in this bustling metropolis.
- Mekong Delta Adventure: Immerse yourself in the lifestyle of the Mekong River with a visit to Ben Tre, known as the birthplace of coconuts.
- Enchanting Hoi An: Discover the perfectly preserved town famous for its architecture, traditional culture, and lantern-lit streets.
- Captivating Hanoi: Uncover the rich history, lively culture, and bustling Old Quarter of this ancient city.
- Exquisite Halong Bay: Experience the awe-inspiring natural wonder of limestone karsts emerging from lush waters.
- Trang An Heritage Complex and Bai Dinh Pagoda: Embark on a sampan adventure and explore Southeast Asia's largest pagoda.
- Luang Prabang: Fly to this renowned ancient city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the land of a million elephants.
- Embark on this captivating voyage through Vietnam and Laos Tour and create cherished memories with an abundance of wonders.
Available
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival In Ho Chi Minh City And Visit (no-meals) October 15, 2024
When you arrive to Ho Chi Minh City, you will be taken to your hotel.
Visit the former Presidential Palace (outside), other name Reunification palace, The Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Post Office signed by Gustave Eiffel.
Continue to a lacquerware factory and the Thien Hau Pagoda. Thiên Hau is worshipped in the coastal Chinese communities of Fujian, Guangzhou, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia.
Melas on your own.
Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City - Ben Tre (110 Km – 2h30) (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) October 16, 2024
At 8:30 am, depart from Ho Chi Minh City to Ben Tre. Arrive at Ham Luong Pier in Ben Tre town at 10:30 am, located opposite the hotel with the same name. Embark on a boat trip along the Ben Tre River, one of the Mekong River's tributaries. Observe lively activities such as fishing and water transfer taking place along the river. Witness the traditional method of brick-making, where they print and bake bricks. Visit a coconut processing workshop situated along the canal. Take a stroll to a family workshop where they produce sleeping mats and drink fruit and tea.
Ride a motor cart (xe loi) or a bicycle to explore life under the shades of trees, passing through green rice fields and vegetable plains while learning about tropical culture from the locals.
Enjoy lunch at Hai Ho family's house, and to reach the pier, take a rowing boat. Take a car transfer to the homestay, where you can relax around the village.
Join in cooking with the family members at 6:00 pm and have dinner at the homestay at 7:00 pm.
Overnight at homestay in Ben Tre.
Day 3: Ben Tre - Ho Chi Minh City (Breakfast, Lunch) October 17, 2024
After having breakfast, you will embark on a cycling tour to explore the local market, witness the process of making brooms and soy sauce at their respective workshops. If you wish, you can also visit a local school to get a glimpse of the educational system in Vietnam. Later, you will enjoy lunch at a local house.
In the afternoon, you will return to Ho Chi Minh City and check-in at your hotel.
Dinner is at your own expense.
Overnight at the hotel in Ho Chi Minh city.
Special Gifts For Your Loved Ones During Your Visit To Ben Tre
Day 4: Ho Chi Minh City - Da Nang - Hoi An | 1000km - 1h20' By Plane (Breakfast) October 18, 2024
After savoring your breakfast, head to the airport for your flight to Da Nang city. Upon landing, a driver will greet you at the airport and escort you to Hoi An. Along the way, you will make a pit stop at Non Nuoc Marble village, famously called "Mountain and Water" in Vietnamese, located approximately 8km southeast of Da Nang City.
Following that, you will continue your journey to the historic town of Hoi An. It was a thriving trade center during the 17th and 18th centuries and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Once you arrive, check into your hotel and enjoy leisure time to explore the quaint town.
Meals on your own.
Overnight in Hoi An.
Day 5: Hoi An Ecotour And Discovery Of Ancient Town (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) October 19, 2024
What a wonderful itinerary! You will have the opportunity to experience some of the most famous and beautiful sights in Hoi An, while also venturing out into the peaceful countryside for a day of cycling and cultural immersion.
The morning walk through the ancient town sounds like a great way to start the day, with visits to some of the most significant historical and cultural sites.
The Quan Cong temple and Phuc Kien pagoda will offer insight into the Chinese influence in Hoi An, while the Japanese Bridge and Tan Ky ancient house will showcase the town's diverse heritage.
Lunch at a local restaurant is a perfect opportunity to refuel before embarking on an afternoon of cycling through the picturesque countryside. It will be refreshing to get away from the busy city and enjoy some peaceful time in nature. The Van Lang fisherman village and Bay Mau water coconut forest sound like stunning destinations, full of history and natural beauty.
Meeting Mr. Han and his family will be an incredible opportunity to learn about the local culture and traditional way of life. The basket boat tour and foot bath with medicinal herbs are unique experiences that will surely be remembered for years to come. And of course, dinner with a local family is an excellent way to sample traditional Vietnamese cuisine and connect with the local community.
Overall, this itinerary offers a great balance of history, culture, nature, and food, making it an unforgettable experience for anyone visiting Hoi An.
Overnight in Hoi An.
Day 6: Da Nang - Hanoi | 850km - 1h10' By Plane (Breakfast) October 20, 2024
After enjoying your breakfast, you will be escorted to the airport to catch your morning flight to Hanoi, a vibrant city known for its rich cultural and historical heritage as well as its central role in Vietnamese business, education, and politics. Hanoi boasts numerous universities, research institutes, government offices, and a thriving startup and technology community.
Upon arrival in Hanoi, a professional driver will be waiting for you at the airport to take you directly to your hotel, ensuring a hassle-free start to your exciting journey.
Meals on your own.
Overnight in Hanoi.
Day 7: Hanoi City Tour (Breakfast, Lunch) October 21, 2024
After breakfast, your day kicks off with a visit to the square in front of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, honoring the nation's founder. Your guide will narrate the country's independence history before you capture memories in photos.
Next, head to the Defense Pagoda by West Lake, ending your morning with an insightful trip to the Hanoi Ethnography Museum, showcasing Vietnam's diverse ethnic cultures.
Lunch awaits at a local eatery.
In the afternoon, a fascinating stroll through the Hanoi Old Quarter awaits you. Start with the Long Bien Bridge - Paul Doumer Bridge (Trần Nhật Duật Street side) and continue to Cao Thắng Street, famous for its traditional spices. Then, explore the Đồng Xuân Market, the largest market in Hanoi, and soak in the lively atmosphere of Hàng Mã Street, known for its decorative items, Chinese toys, and colorful lanterns.
Continue your exploration through Lương Văn Can, Lãn Ông, and Hang Buồm streets, taking the time to visit the Bạch Mã Temple (76 Hang Buồm Street), the oldest temple in Hanoi. Take a well-deserved break at Café Market (Hanoi Coffee Culture, 45 Nguyen Huu Huan Street or another café boutique) to enjoy a complimentary coffee.
Capture the vibrant atmosphere by Hoan Kiem Lake before attending a mesmerizing Hanoi water puppet show in the evening.
Dinner is on your own, followed by an overnight stay at the hotel in Hanoi.
Day 8: Hanoi - Halong Bay - Surprise Cave (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) October 22, 2024
Your day will begin with an 8am pickup from your hotel for a transfer to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay in Quảng Ninh Province, Vietnam. "Hạ Long" means "descending dragon" in Vietnamese.
We'll arrive at Tuan Chau Port between 11:45am and 12:00pm, where you will board our boat and receive a welcome drink. Your Cruise Manager will provide a safety briefing and instructions before serving a delicious deluxe Vietnamese Set Menu Lunch. If you wish, you can also book a massage service in advance to enjoy throughout the cruise.
While we cruise through Halong Bay, we'll pass by the most beautiful and serene areas, including Incense Burner, Dog Stone Islet, Fighting Cock, and Finger Islet. Our next destination is the breathtaking Surprise Cave (Hang Sửng Sốt), one of the largest and most stunning grottoes in Halong Bay. To reach the mouth of the grotto, we'll climb approximately a hundred stone steps.
After exploring the Surprise Cave, we'll sail for about 30 minutes to anchor overnight. During this time, you can attend a Fruit and Vegetable Carving Lesson led by our Head Chef. Our chef will demonstrate fruit and vegetable carving and teach you how to decorate and make some traditional Vietnamese food.
Dinner will feature fresh seafood, followed by various activities. Board games like cards or Parcheesi will be available, as well as massage services throughout the cruise. Everyone can also try their luck at squid fishing on the boat with the help of the crew.
Overnight on boat.
Day 9: Halong - Ninh Binh (190km – 4h30) (Breakfast, Brunch) October 23, 2024
You have the option to rise early at 6:30am to enjoy a light breakfast and hot drinks in the dining room, but it's not mandatory. For those who are interested, there will be a Tai Chi session lasting around 30 minutes on the sundeck at 6:45am.
After the Tai Chi session, a tender will take you to Titov Island, where you can spend approximately one hour hiking to the peak for a stunning 360-degree view of the Bay. For those who don't want to climb, there's an expansive viewing deck available halfway up the island. After the climb, you can unwind on the beach and go for a swim.
Upon returning to the boat, you'll have 30 minutes to freshen up and pack your belongings. We kindly request that you collect all of your belongings from the cabins and leave heavy luggage outside of them. Our staff will transfer your luggage directly to the pier. A full breakfast will be served in the dining room, and you can settle your bills after breakfast. While we approach the pier, you can relax on the sundeck or in the dining room, enjoying the beautiful bay scenery.
We are scheduled to arrive at Tuan Chau port at 11:00am, where you can relax inside the pier building while waiting for transportation back to your hotel. Please note that the itinerary is subject to change due to weather conditions, tide levels, and operational conditions. The times provided are approximate and may vary.
At 12:00 PM, your memorable cruise experience will come to an end, and you will be transferred to Ninh Binh. During the journey, you will stop to savor the mouth-watering green cake, a popular local delicacy.
In the afternoon, you'll arrive in Ninh Binh and proceed to check-in at your hotel. Your comfortable and cozy accommodations await, offering you the chance to relax and unwind after a long day of adventure and exploration.
Dinner is on your own tonight.
Overnight in Ninh Binh.
Day 10: Ninh Binh - Bai Dinh Pagoda - Trang An - Hanoi (120km – 3h00) (Breakfast, Lunch) October 24, 2024
Your day will begin with an 8am hotel pick-up and explore the majestic Bai Dinh Pagoda. Not only is this the largest pagoda in Vietnam, but it is also the largest in Southeast Asia. Situated on a hill at the back, with views overlooking a river at the front, its prime location has made it one of Ninh Binh's most impressive tourist attractions.
Continue to Trang An, you will embark on a delightful two-hour sampan cruise through various waterways, where you can marvel at the stunning rural scenery of limestone cliffs. Trang An Grottoes is similar to Tam Coc, but with many more caves to explore. Unfortunately, some of the caves have been widened to allow boats to pass through, compromising their natural beauty.
After the cruise, enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby local restaurant.
In the afternoon, return back to Hanoi to explore the city at your leisure. Dinner is on your own tonight.
End your day by spending the night in Hanoi.
Day 11: Hanoi - Luang Prabang | By Plane (Breakfast) October 25, 2024
After enjoying your breakfast, you will be escorted to the airport to catch your morning flight to Luang Prabang (Laos).
Upon arrival at Luang Prabang airport, you will be warmly escorted to your hotel in this well-preserved traditional city. Luang Prabang's serene ambiance, stunning landscapes, and cultural landmarks make it a captivating destination in Laos.
After check-in, take the time to immerse yourself in the town's tranquility and charm. Explore the picturesque streets, adorned with architectural wonders and natural beauty. Discover ancient temples or venture into the surrounding mountains and waterfalls for an unforgettable experience.
Indulge in the unique local cuisine and enjoy leisurely strolls along the Mekong River, witnessing mesmerizing sunsets. In Luang Prabang, time slows down, allowing you to unwind and savor the simple pleasures of life. Embrace this opportunity for a journey that will awaken your senses and create cherished memories of this idyllic destination.
Meals on your own.
Overnight at hotel in Luang Prabang.
Day 12: Authentic Luang Prabang City Tour (Breakfast) October 26, 2024
For early risers, an optional opportunity awaits to participate in the captivating morning alms giving ritual to saffron-clad monks. This unique tradition, preserved solely in Laos, sets it apart as the only Buddhist nation still observing this procession. Following this enlightening experience, take a moment to explore the vibrant local markets before returning to the hotel for breakfast.
In the morning, set off to visit Wat Visoun, home to the remarkable Thad Makmo stupa with its distinctive rounded dome, showcasing a Sinhalese influence. Next, continue your journey with a visit to Wat Aham, followed by a stop at Vat Xiengthong, a temple renowned for its captivating beauty. This temple, situated at the tip of a peninsula where the Mekong and Khan Rivers meet, has become one of the most photographed in the region.
In the afternoon, proceed to the former Royal Palace, now transformed into the National Museum. Delve into the rich history as you explore its halls. Then, visit Wat Mai, a renowned temple celebrated for its exquisite golden bas-relief. During Pimai, the Lao New Year, the revered Prabang statue, usually housed in the Royal Palace Museum, is brought to this temple for public display.
This afternoon's itinerary promises a blend of cultural exploration and historical immersion, offering insights into the intriguing heritage of Luang Prabang.
Meals on your own.
Overnight at hotel in Luang Prabang.
Day 13: Luang Prabang - Pak Ou Cave - Kuang Si Waterfall (Breakfast) October 27, 2024
In the morning, you will be transferred to the pier where you'll embark on a relaxing cruise upstream on the majestic Mekong River, aboard a traditional long-tail boat. As you sail, immerse yourself in the stunning mountain scenery and observe the simple rural lifestyles along the riverbanks. Your journey will lead you to the Pak Ou caves, situated at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Ou Rivers. These caves house hundreds of sacred Buddha images that date back centuries and serve as objects of pilgrimage during the Lao New Year festivities in mid-April.
Afterward, cruise back to Luang Prabang, making a stop at Ban Xangkhong, a weaving village. Here, you have the opportunity to engage with local experts and even try your hand at the wooden looms for a hands-on experience.
In the afternoon, venture through picturesque green rice paddies and charming farms. Upon reaching the enchanting Kuang Si waterfall, take a leisurely walk along the trail, allowing you to appreciate the cascading falls and the surrounding beauty. Don't miss the chance to visit the bear rescue center, where you can witness their conservation efforts. The park reveals a spectacular display of orchids, and the falls cascade over multiple calcified tiers, descending several hundred feet into a series of cool, turquoise pools. After relishing the awe-inspiring views, make your way back to Luang Prabang.
This day's itinerary offers a blend of scenic exploration, cultural encounters, and natural wonders, ensuring a memorable experience in Luang Prabang.
Meals on your own.
Overnight at hotel in Luang Prabang.
Day 14: Luang Prabang - Departure (Breakfast) October 28, 2024
Free time until your transfer by our driver to the airport for your international flight back home.
End of Vietnam Laos Itinerary 2 weeks.
Important noted
Trip Inclusion
- Accommodation in a double or twin room with daily breakfast.
- Overnight cruise on board a shared good-quality boat in Halong Bay (private boat upon request).
- Private air-conditioned vehicle during all tours and transfers.
- English-speaking guide during all tours.
- Entrance fees for all visits as mentioned in the itinerary.
- Water puppet show in Hanoi.
- Lunch or dinner as specified in the itinerary.
- Local private sampan cruise in Mekong Delta, Hoi An &Trang An.
- Bicycle for all tours.
- Water & cool towels.
- Government taxes & service charge.
Trip Exclusions
- Drinks and meals not mentioned.
- International airfare and departure taxes.
- Personal travel insurance.
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone, drinks… etc.
- Vietnam & Laos visa fees (If you are not exempt from the visa).
- Any gratuities and tip to driver and tour guide ($3-5/person/day for both guide & driver).
* Notes:
- Domestic flights: We quote separately and can book for you without fees.
- Surcharged for Gala dinner on 24th and 31st December if any.
- Surcharged for Public holidays (30/4-1/5, Lunar New Year).
- The timing of check-in and check-out at the hotels: Check-in at 14:00, check-out at 12:00. (Early check-in/late check-out is upon your request).
- A single supplement is required if you are traveling alone.
- The triple room is possible upon your request.
Thing To Carry
- All customers participating in the tour must have a passport and identification document when leaving the country.
- Backpack, toiletry bag, sunscreen/cap, water bottles, camera(optional), extra pair of clothes, personal medication, track pants and cotton T-shirt, sweater/ warm jackets for the night.
- Dry fruits, energy bar, chocolates, torch per person with extra batteries, moov spray, dettol solution or salt to avoid leeches, sports shoes or trekking shoes or comfortable shoes with good grip, personal hygiene items: medicine, face towel, shower gel, brush, toothpaste.
Cancellation Policy
- Deposit 50% tour price when signing up and pay the remaining amount 10 days before starting date.
- In case of tour cancellation: (Tour cancellation time is calculated by working days, excluding Saturday, Sunday and public holidays and New Year).
- After the deposit, if you cancel the tour, the company will not refund the deposit.
- If you cancel or change the tour within 20 - 29 working days before the departure date, please pay the fee of: 70% of the tour price.
- If you cancel or change the tour within 10 - 19 working days before the departure date, please pay the fee of: 90% of the tour price.
- If you cancel or change the tour 9 working days before the departure date, please pay the fee of: 100% of the tour value.
* Notes:
- Your passport must be valid for more than 6 months from the date of return.
- If you are a foreigner or overseas Vietnamese, please bring all your passports (bring both passports in case you have 2 citizenships), and Vietnamese visa (attached to your passport or separate sheet) while on tour.
- Please follow according to the tour program, do not separate from the group. If there is a need to separate from the group, please notify the consultant when registering for the tour for more information and additional costs (if any).
- Customers aged 70 years or older require a health certificate to travel abroad from a doctor and must be accompanied by a relative under 60 years old (healthy). Guests over 75 years old, please pay a premium insurance (the fee varies depending on the tour).
- The program may change depending on the flight situation, the hotel in at the site will be officially confirmed on the day of the group meeting, 2-3 days before the departure date. The attractions may not be in the order in the program. During the peak weeks in the site, the hotel may not be in the central area but still ensure the hotel standard according to the program.
Refund Policy
- In case of cancellation of the tour right after registration until 10 days before the departure date, you will be subject to a 30% penalty on the travel fare.
- In case of cancellation of the tour within 5-10 days before the departure date, you will be charged 50% of the travel fare.
- In case of cancellation of the tour within 3-5 days before the departure date, you will be charged 75% of the travel fare.
- If you cancel the tour within 0 – 3 days before the departure date, you will be charged 100% of the travel fare.
* Notes:
- In case of tour cancellation due to objective incidents such as natural disasters, epidemics, postponement and cancellation of transportations service... Tourist will not be responsible for any additional compensation other than refund tour fee.
- Above is the maximum cancellation penalty, this cost can be reduced depending on the conditions of each service provider for Tourist.
- The tour cancellation time is calculated for working days, excluding Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays and New Year.
- If the travel program is canceled or changed by either party due to a force majeure reason (fire, weather, accident, natural disaster, war, delay and cancellation of the public transport plus…), the two parties will not bear any obligation to compensate for the loss that has occurred and not bear any liability. However, each party is responsible for trying its best to help the aggrieved party to minimize losses caused by force majeure.
Children Policy
- Children under 2 years old: 30% of adult price (baby sharing bed with parents).
- Children from 2 to under 12 years old: 90% of adult price (kid sharing bed with parents) / 100% of adult price (kid has their own bed).
- Children from 12 years old and up: 100% of the adult price.
Reviews
ReviewsOverall rating
Review details
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ANAnna | Israel Apr 18, 2024
Excellent
An unforgettable adventure!
I recently embarked on an unforgettable adventure, exploring Vietnam and Laos over the course of 14 days. From the vibrant cities of Hanoi and Luang Prabang to the stunning landscapes of Moc Chau and Kuang Si Waterfall, this trip provided an unforgettable experience that will stay with me for years to come. The tour started in Hanoi, the bustling capital of Vietnam, and took me through some of the ..More -
TITimothy | Germany Apr 09, 2024
Excellent
Enjoyable Vietnam & Laos holiday
The trip was really nice and smooth. The itinerary and activities during the tour is planned really well. The tour went smoothly without anything occurred. The food is not up to my expectation. But it was just me anyways, my friends quite enjoyed it. About tour guides, all I can say is they are informative and their English is so good. Thank you so much Auasia Travel for making wonderful journey ..More -
LULucas | Austria Mar 11, 2024
Excellent
Wow Vietnam & Laos Journey
I recently traveled to Vietnam and Laos with some friends, and it was amazing. We explored bustling cities like Hanoi and enjoyed serene landscapes in Luang Prabang. Our tour guide was fantastic, showing us around and making sure we had a great time. Highlights included cruising on Ha Long Bay and exploring night markets. It was an unforgettable trip filled with new experiences and relaxation. ..More