Vietnam Encompassed

22 days - from $1675

Your Vietnam adventure tour begins in the steamy southern city of Saigon. From here you'll explore the agriculturally rich Mekong Delta and the one-time guerrilla stronghold of the Cu Chi Tunnels before spending a couple of days cooling off in the attractive Central Highlands town of Dalat. Back on the coast, you’ll cruise the offshore islands of Nha Trang then catch the overnight train to the ancient port town of Hoi An in Central Vietnam.

A short drive north, over the spectacular Hai Van Pass, brings you to a city that’s steeped in history and culture, the former Imperial capital, Hue. Another overnight train journey delivers you to the charming present-day capital of Hanoi in North Vietnam. Discover this graceful old city before setting out to cruise amongst the towering limestone karsts of awe-inspiring Halong Bay.

Last, but definitely not least, you'll trek through the breathtakingly beautiful mountain scenery around the northern hill tribe minority town of Sapa, and spend the night in a village longhouse. Definitely one of the great Vietnam Tours.

Highlights

• Bac Ha Market, Lao Cai
• Cai Be floating market on the Mekong
• Cool down in Dalat
• Crossing the road by foot, Saigon
• Cu Chi Tunnel crawl
• Cu Chi Tunnels
• Fish Market and local river boat drift, Hoi An
• Historic icons at Thien Mu Pagoda On the Perfume River, Hue.
• Jumping from junks and swimming in Halong Bay
• Longtail boat up the Mekong
• Lunch at Dalat Market
• Nha Trang Island Cruise
• Relaxing Tai chi in the parks of Saigon
• Sight-seeing by Cyclo, Saigon
• Street tour of Hanoi
• Suit up with the tailors of Hoi An
• The circular basket boats of Nha Trang
• The hill tribes of Sa Pa
• The manic bustle of Saigon

Itinerary:

Day 1: Saigon2-3: Mekong Delta4: Cu Chi Tunnels5-6: Dalat7-9: Nha Trang10-11: Hoi An12-13: Hue14-15: Hanoi16: Halong Bay17: Hanoi18-20: Sapa Hill Tribe Trek21-22: Hanoi

What's It Like?

Gecko's adventures offer authentic experiences and a genuine alternative to backpacking. Our trips are designed for younger travelers on a budget but do include the entrance fees to the ‘must see’ sights while not wasting your money on unnecessary frills. Itineraries utilize public transport and basic twin share accommodations in small locally owned hotels, the occasional multi-share, or simply floor space in a jungle or village hut. Many trips involve some physical activity, the occasional long traveling day and you will need to carry your own bags. On camping trips, meals are freshly prepared by our camp cook, but expect to put up and take down your tent, and assist with camp chores. On all trips we only use local tour leaders who are passionate about their homeland. This is travel, grassroots style - basic but rewarding.

Included: An experienced local leader, and there will be the services of local guides at some sites. All transportation, accommodation and meals as indicated.
Not Included: International flights, arrival and departure transfers, departure and airport taxes, visas, all other meals, all optional tours or activities during free time, transfers outside of the tour program, travel insurance, tips and items of a personal nature.
Meals: 15 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners
EquipmentIncluded: 02 Sep 10
Valid From: 01 Jan 08
Valid Until: 31 Dec 69
Starts/Ends: Saigon, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam to Hanoi
Trip Reference: GTVE