Overview of Vietnam Adventure 12 Days
Embark on an unforgettable 12-day journey through Vietnam, where cultural treasures and natural wonders await at every stop. From savoring street food in Hanoi’s Old Quarter to conquering the peak of Fansipan in Sapa, this adventure blends scenic landscapes, rich heritage, and exciting local experiences. Cruise overnight in the iconic Halong Bay, stroll through the lantern-lit alleys of Hoi An, and cap off your trip with vibrant Saigon and a thrilling quad bike ride in Mui Ne. This tour is designed for travelers seeking a dynamic, immersive way to explore Vietnam tour from north to south.
Travel Route
- Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Sapa – Halong Bay – Danang – Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh City – Mui Ne – Ho Chi Minh City
Why You’ll Love This Tour
- Stroll through Hanoi’s vibrant streets, savor street food, and visit the famous Train Street.
- Explore the scenic landscapes of Ninh Binh, Sapa Town, Fansipan Peak and Y Linh Ho villages in Sapa.
- Immerse yourself in the beauty of Danang and the charm of Hoi An Ancient Town.
- Enjoy panoramic views of Saigon from the Skydeck and explore its vibrant energy
Detailed Vietnam 12-Day Itinerary
Xin chào! Welcome to Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam! On arrival at the airport, you will be welcomed by our local guide and driver, then transferred to your city hotel for check-in and relaxation. Have a rest, then at 07:00 PM, meet with a Hanoi food expert for a mouthwatering tour of the capital this evening.
Start at the market, where you’ll browse food stalls, try local delicacies, and uncover Vietnamese culinary culture.

Head to the market famed for its noodle shops, and sample treats such as pho sot vang (noodle soup with pork and herbs) and bun dau (tofu served in soup with rice noodles and fermented shrimp paste).

After the street food, your adventure continues at Hanoi’s famous Train Street, a narrow residential street where a train passes just inches from the homes and cafes. Enjoy a cup of Vietnamese coffee at a local cafe, and if you’re lucky, you might witness the thrilling sight of a train passing through this unique neighborhood.

Note: hotel check-in is at 14.00, early check-in is not included.
Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel, then be picked up at 8AM by your guide and driver. You will depart for Ninh Binh province (approx. 2–2.5 hours driving).
At 10:30, arrive in Ninh Binh and proceed to visit the historic capital of Vietnam, where you can visit the famous ancient temples of the Le and Dinh Dynasties. Along the tour, sit down to enjoy a lunch with delicious local dishes at a restaurant in town.

At 13:00, depart to visit the complex and take a boat trip through the impressive cave complex consisting of Sang Cave, Toi Cave, Ba Giot Cave and Nau Ruou, set in the mysterious wilderness. See the mountain and river scenery of the “Halong Bay on land”.

At 15:30, arrive at Hang Mua, where you can get impressive panoramic views of Tam Coc and Ninh Binh city, and see the amazing scenery of rice fields and river canals when you reach the top of Ngoa Long Mountain (about 500 stone steps). After the tour, leave Ninh Binh and be escorted safely back to your hotel in Hanoi.

Early morning, at 07:00 AM, your driver will pick you up at your hotel and transfer to Sapa (approx. 7 hours). On your arrival in Sapa, meet your tour guide, then transfer to the restaurant to have lunch.

After lunch, begin your exploration with a visit to the Sapa Stone Church, a French-built Gothic structure in the heart of town. It is also known as the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary and has become a suitable venue for the traditional cultural practices of Christianity among the ethnic minority groups there.

Head to Sapa Market, where you can see the vibrant activities of the local ethnic minorities. Every weekend, ethnic minorities come to gather and sell their agricultural products. The market is divided into 3 zones: the first for fresh products, the second for local food, and the last for souvenirs, brocade and more.

Visit Mat Ngoc Lake, also known as Sapa Lake, the most convenient place to stroll around and enjoy the sunset, the sunrise, or the fresh air of Sapa.

Note: check-out before 12:00 PM, late check-out is not included.
After you have breakfast at your hotel, take a 4-minute Mountain Train through valleys, viaducts, and tunnels, offering beautiful views of surrounding villages as well as nature. Reaching the Cable Car station, get off the train and enjoy another 20-minute cable car ride up to the top. Normally, it takes at least two or three days to reach the peak of Fansipan Mountain on foot. However, with the new three-rope cable car system, you can see the peak and its spectacular surroundings within half a day.

After the 20-minute ride, challenge yourself with 636 high steps up to Fansipan Summit, considered ‘The Roof of Indochina’ at 3,143 meters. Enjoy the spectacular scenery of Hoang Lien Mountain and lush forest, then walk down to the cable car station and ride back. Have a buffet lunch at the Fansipan Lounge, then take the mountain train back to town.

In the afternoon, explore Cat Cat Village and Y Linh Ho Village: a half-day walk through beautiful landscapes with great views over rice-terraced fields, and a chance to meet the Hmong people and experience their local life. You will be met at your hotel in Sapa and begin your journey by leaving Sapa market town. The walk starts downhill towards Cat Cat Village. Enjoy the beautiful landscape and scenery along the road. Upon reaching a waterfall and a hydroelectric station, take a short rest.

Continue trekking on a dirt trail through rice paddy terraced fields. This area is still covered by rain forest, under the protection of Hoang Lien National Park. Arrive in Y Linh Ho village, inhabited by the Black Hmong people, where you will have another rest before climbing towards the main road. Your vehicle will then pick you up from the main road and drive you back to Sapa.

Approximate duration: 15 minutes driving, 3 hours walking.
Note: the trail can be slippery during the rainy season from Cat Cat to Y Linh Ho.
At around 08:30 AM, please check out of your room in Sapa. Your tour guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel and embark on a memorable adventure to the Bản Mòng Alpine Coaster. Situated amidst the breathtaking Hoang Lien Son mountain range, this activity promises an exhilarating experience amidst nature’s beauty. As part of this journey, you will enjoy a round-trip ride ticket on the alpine coaster, including an 825m descent and a 250m ascent. Embark on this thrilling adventure with safety in mind, and enjoy the ride through the stunning mountain landscape!
Please note: The Alpine Coaster is an active experience and may not be suitable for everyone. Please review the guidelines in the Notes section below. You can always discuss alternative activities or adjustments with our travel consultants to tailor the itinerary to your preferences.

After enjoying the alpine coaster, your tour guide and driver will escort you to have lunch at a local restaurant. Finally, get in the car for the journey back to Hanoi (approx. 7 hours), without a tour guide.
Note: check-out before 12:00 PM, late check-out is not included.
Pick-up from 08:00 to 08:30: transfer from your hotel to Tuan Chau Harbor (driver only, tour guide not included).
At 12:30, welcome on board. At 13:00, enjoy lunch while the boat cruises past a small fishing village.

From 14:30 to 15:30, visit Sung Sot Cave. We recommend bringing hiking shoes, a camera, etc.

From 15:30 to 16:30, visit Titop Island, where you can go swimming and hiking. Please bring a swimsuit, sun cream, sunglasses, and a little money.

At 18:00, enjoy a cooking class and happy hour, followed by the sunset party on the sundeck on the 4th floor. Dinner is served at 19:30, then relax from 20:30.

From 06:45 to 07:30, breakfast is served. From 07:30 to 08:30, go kayaking to Luon Cave. Please change your clothes because it will be wet, and we don’t recommend taking your camera or cell phone with you.

At 09:45, check out (for a better arrangement, please put your luggage outside the door and return the room key at reception). Our staff will help transfer your luggage to the jetty in advance. From 09:45 to 10:30, an early lunch is served. At 10:30, pay the bill at the bar counter on the second floor. At 11:00, say goodbye to the crew and disembark at Alisa Harbor.
At 12:00, get on the private car and return to Hanoi, where the car will take you to Noi Bai Airport to catch your flight to Danang (car only, no tour guide).
Pick-up from 8:00 AM to 8:15 AM: meet your guide and driver at your hotel and start the journey today.
Explore the Marble Mountains, where you can admire beautiful caves and historic Buddhist pagodas. Learn about the differences between Buddhism and Hinduism and take in the stunning scenery.

Visit the stone carving village to appreciate the fine art of stone carving and shop for unique souvenirs. Enjoy local cuisine at a restaurant.

Continue your adventure at the coconut jungle. Experience the peaceful green space, participate in round net and cast net fishing, and enjoy a basket boat rowing experience.

Arrive in Hoi An Ancient Town. Explore iconic sites including Phuc Kien Pagoda, Phung Hung Ancient House, the Japanese Bridge, and various museums. Enjoy shopping at Hoi An Central Market and marvel at the architectural influences from China, Japan, and Vietnam. Finally, come back to your hotel and relax.

Today, time will be free for you to do as you wish until your guide and driver arrive at your hotel to escort you to the airport in good time for your departure flight to Ho Chi Minh City. On arrival at the airport, you will be welcomed by our local guide and driver, then transferred to your city hotel for check-in and relaxation.
Have a rest, then around 06:00 PM, your tour guide will pick you up at your hotel and transfer you to the restaurant for dinner. After dinner, visit the Saigon Skydeck, an iconic landmark located in the Bitexco Financial Tower. Here, you will marvel at breathtaking panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City from the 49th floor. The illuminated cityscape at night, with its bustling streets and sparkling lights, offers an unforgettable experience and a perfect photo opportunity. Once you’ve enjoyed the spectacular views, you will be transferred back to your hotel for a restful evening.

Note: check-out before 12:00 PM, late check-out is not included.
Note: hotel check-in is at 14.00, early check-in is not included.
At 08:00 AM, start your Mui Ne Sand Dune tour. First, visit the Fairy Stream, a nice natural stream in Mui Ne that you should not miss.

After that, visit the White Sand Dunes. From the top of the huge dune, you can see all of the scenery of Mui Ne. You will also discover the daily activities of the fishing farm. The dunes are a romantic place to watch the sunset and slide on the sand. In the middle of the white sand dunes, there is also Lotus Lake; the lotus is one of the most famous flowers in Vietnam.

After that, get on your quad bike (ATV) for a 20-minute ride around the vast dunes, from the foot to the top. It’s a great fun and exciting way to explore the dunes on an easy-to-use ATV. After the tour, transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City.

Note: this trip takes around 11 hours, because the transfer from Ho Chi Minh City to Mui Ne and back takes 3 hours.
Take the morning trip and drive 1.5 hours to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Upon arrival, watch an introductory video about the tunnels and how they were used during the war. Explore the tunnel systems, including living areas, kitchens, weapons factories, and more. You can also try special wartime food like tea and cassava or experience shooting real guns (extra fee, paid by yourself).

After lunch at a local restaurant, visit the Independence Palace, also known as the Reunification Palace, built on the site of the former Norodom Palace. It is a widely known landmark of Ho Chi Minh City and was designed by the architect Ngo Viet Thu.

Continue to see beautiful structures from the French colonial era, such as the Notre Dame Cathedral and the historic Central Post Office (viewed from the outside).

Head back to the city center for a visit to the famous Ben Thanh Market, an iconic symbol of the city and a must-visit for those seeking the energetic pulse of Ho Chi Minh City. With its distinct blend of Indochinese and French architectural styles, the market offers an insightful glimpse into the city’s cultural heritage. This bustling and well-organized market is popular for its central location and wide selection of goods, from souvenirs to beautiful silk Ao Dai.

Today, time will be free for you to do as you wish until your guide and driver arrive at your hotel to escort you to the airport in good time for your departure flight back home. Trip ends! See you on the next amazing Vietnam tours!

Note: check-out before 12:00 PM, late check-out is not included.
Inclusions & Exclusions for 12-Day Vietnam Adventure Tour
✓ Accommodation with daily breakfast as per detailed itinerar
✓ Transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle with experienced driver
✓ Meals as specified in the itinerary with authentic local food. Western food is available (upon request) (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner).
✓ Local-stationed English-speaking tour guide
✓ Entrance fees & permits
✓ Bottle of drinking water
⨉ International flights and airport taxes
⨉ Domestic flights and airport taxes
⨉ Vietnam Visa stamp (US$ 25.00 per person)
⨉ Travel insurance with Covid protection term up to $10,000
⨉ Other meals which are not indicated above
⨉ Surcharge and Compulsory dinners (if any)
⨉ Beverages in the restaurants where meals are included
⨉ Gratuities to guides and drivers
⨉ Personal and other expenses such as porter, bar bills and laundry not stated in the itinerary.
Notes: Participation Guidelines for the Alpine Coaster (in Day 5 of The Tour)
Who Can Ride?
- Individuals aged 8 years and above, who are at least 1.35m tall, can ride the coaster alone.
- Children aged 3 to 7 years can ride on a two-seater coaster accompanied by an adult who:
- Is aged 8 or older.
- Is at least 1.35m tall.
- Has been trained by the staff and assumes full responsibility for the child.
Who Cannot Ride?
- Pregnant women
- People over 75 years
- Children under 3 years old.
- Individuals unable to sit or operate the coaster properly due to physical or mental limitations. They may ride only if accompanied by a trusted person or staff member who assumes responsibility.
- Those under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medications impairing mental faculties.
- Animals, bulky items, sharp objects, or loose belongings are prohibited.
Important Rules and Safety Guidelines
- Personal Responsibility: By riding, you accept all risks and must wear appropriate attire.
- Speed Control: Maintain a safe speed to ensure the safety of yourself and others.
- Keep at least 25m between coasters.
- Tailgating is strictly prohibited.
- The rear driver is fully responsible for any collision.
- Brake with Caution:
- Always brake on time, especially near the end of the track.
- Reduce speed to walking pace in station areas.
- Stay Alert: Keep your body upright, face forward, and never lean outside the coaster.
- Traffic Signs: Follow all posted signs and remain focused on the next 25m of the track.
- Staff Instructions: Follow the guidance of staff at all times. Do not operate the coaster too slowly or too fast.
- Equipment Use: Only use coasters provided by the system.
- Seat belts must remain fastened throughout the ride.
- The rear passenger is responsible for braking and maintaining safety.
- Hands and Feet: Must remain inside the coaster during the ride.
- Avoid Loose Clothing: Items such as scarves, long shoelaces, or long hair must be secured to prevent entanglement with the track or wheels.
- Designated Boarding: Only board or exit the coaster at specified areas.
- No Electronics: Smoking, mobile phones, and cameras are prohibited during the ride. Riders are responsible for any loss or damage to electronic devices.
- Weight Limit: The total weight of passengers on one coaster must not exceed 150kg.
- Report Incidents: Accidents or damages must be reported immediately to the staff.
- Prohibited Activities:
- Damaging equipment or facilities.
- Creating obstacles on the track.
- Unauthorized operation of the system or safety equipment.
- Weather Conditions: Operations may be suspended during storms, darkness, or when visibility is below 25m.
- Compliance: Failure to follow the rules may result in removal from the activity.
- Terms of Participation: By purchasing a ticket, participants fully accept these terms and waive all claims for compensation.
- Acceptance of Conditions: By paying for or purchasing a ticket, participants explicitly agree to all these terms and conditions. No claims for compensation will be accepted.
Hear from travellers who have experienced this Vietnam 12-day tour
We took this Vietnam tour in 12 days and everything was smooth. We loved how each destination felt completely different, from wandering Hanoi’s Old Quarter and tasting incredible street food to waking up on Halong Bay and standing at the top of Fansipan. Hoi An quickly became our favorite stop, while ending the trip with the energy of Saigon and the sand dunes in Mui Ne gave us a completely different side of Vietnam. Everything flowed seamlessly, and the pacing never felt rushed. It was the perfect balance of culture, scenery, and authentic local experiences.
Emily & David M.
Tailor-Made Vietnam 12-Day Journey · 2025
The itinerary of this tour was paced so thoughtfully that we always had time to slow down, enjoy each place, and never felt like we were rushing to the next stop. Some of our favorite memories weren’t the famous landmarks, but the quiet moments – a morning coffee overlooking Halong Bay, chatting with our guide about local life, and wandering Hoi An after most of the crowds had gone. Looking back, it felt less like joining a tour and more like experiencing real Vietnam adventure through the eyes of people who truly know it.
Sarah L.
Complete Vietnam Adventure · 2026
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