Reunification Express

11 days - from $875

Beginning in the nation’s capital, Hanoi, this north-to-south tour of Vietnam allows you to visit all of the country’s most popular destinations in just 10 days. Most of our travelling will be done aboard the Reunification Express train, a fascinating and unforgettable way to view the unfolding landscape of Vietnam. We begin by discovering the charms of graceful Hanoi before taking the train down to a city that’s steeped in history and culture, Vietnam’s former imperial capital, Hue. A short drive through some remarkable rural and coastal scenery brings us to Hoi An. We’ll spend time in this wonderfully well-preserved ancient port town, a favourite of every traveller to Vietnam. Further south at the beach resort city of Nha Trang we’ll cruise the offshore islands and relax in the sun before once again catching the overnight sleeper train down to the steamy southern city of Saigon.

Highlights

• Vietnam's northern capital Hanoi
• The tailors and market traders of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hoi An
• Perfume River cruise to the Thien Mu Pagoda and royal mausoleum of Emperor Tu Duc
• Nha Trang cruise - the islands of the South China Sea
• Cu Chi Tunnels - the underground network of the Viet Minh and Viet Cong

Itinerary:

Day 1: Hanoi2: Hanoi3: Hue4-6: Hoi An – Nha Trang7-8: Nha Trang - Island Cruise9: Saigon10-11: Saigon - Cu Chi Tunnels

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:

• Gecko’s expert English-speaking local tour guide throughout the tour, and local site guides at some sites.

• Reunification Express journeys – Hanoi to Hue (overnight), Danang to Nha Trang (day), and Nha Trang to Saigon (overnight).

• Sightseeing (including entrance fees where relevant): Hanoi - One Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature and Hoa Lo Prison (Hanoi Hilton); Hai Van Pass; Hoi An’s ‘Old Town’; and the Cu Chi Tunnels.

• Local ‘shopping’ bike ride around Hue and Dragon Boat cruise up the Perfume River to visit Thien Mu pagoda (with option to cycle back through the countryside).

• Day cruise on the South China Sea in Nha Trang, with a freshly-caught seafood lunch included (non-seafood options available).

• Free time to explore Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An, Nha Trang and Saigon.

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.