Vietnam Southern Highlights

Xin Chao! Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, your private guide and driver are waiting to meet you, holding up a welcome signboard with your names on it and take you directly to your hotel located in the city centre.

While every effort is made to have your room available upon arrival, check-in time is at 02:00 pm; your room may or may not be ready before this time. Your tour guide will provide additional details regarding your stay, and you will be able to ask any questions you may have. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Morning

Early this morning, you will be met at your hotel and transferred to the pier for a scenic speedboat journey along the Saigon River to the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels.

Leaving the city behind, the riverbanks gradually change from busy urban scenes to peaceful countryside and lush greenery. During the cruise, enjoy a light breakfast on board with fresh tropical fruits, pastries, and Vietnamese iced coffee while your guide introduces you to life along the river.

Arriving before the larger tour groups, you will explore the remarkable underground tunnel system used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Originally built as a survival network, the tunnels once stretched for hundreds of miles and included living quarters, kitchens, storage areas, and field hospitals.

You will have the opportunity to explore sections of the tunnels, learn about the ingenious wartime strategies used by the guerrilla fighters, and sample cassava, a staple food that sustained them during the conflict.

After the visit, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch before returning to Ho Chi Minh City by speedboat.

Afternoon

Upon arrival at the pier, your private guide and driver will meet you and continue with your guided city exploration. Your tour introduces you to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the elegant Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and the beautifully preserved Saigon Central Post Office, both fine examples of French colonial architecture.

Continue through the historic center to admire the grand façade of the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House and the colonial-era Rex Hotel Saigon before visiting the bustling Ben Thanh Market, where locals and visitors browse an endless array of handicrafts, textiles, and local specialties.

Your journey into the city’s past concludes with a visit to the historic Independence Palace, followed by the thought-provoking War Remnants Museum, offering a powerful perspective on Vietnam’s recent history.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Morning

After breakfast, depart Ho Chi Minh City with your private guide and driver for a scenic journey into the fertile Mekong Delta, often referred to as Vietnam’s “rice bowl.” Your destination is the river town of Cai Be, a traditional trading hub along the Mekong River.

Upon arrival, visit the distinctive Cai Be Cao Dai Temple, a colorful sanctuary representing the unique Cao Dai religion, followed by a brief stop at the historic Cai Be Cathedral.

Next, embark on a boat excursion along the Mekong River to explore the lively Cai Be Floating Market, where local traders sell fresh fruits and agricultural products directly from their boats. Observe daily life along the waterways and, if you wish, purchase some fresh tropical fruits while interacting with the friendly river vendors.

Continue your journey with a peaceful sampan ride through narrow canals, gliding beneath the green canopy of water coconut palms. This tranquil setting offers a beautiful glimpse into the slower rhythms of rural Mekong life.

Arrive at Tan Phong Island, where you will be warmly welcomed at a local home with tea and seasonal fruits.

Afternoon

After a short break, set out on a leisurely cycling tour through the countryside, passing lush orchards, village homes, and small canals. Along the way, you may stop at a local kindergarten (on school days) to greet village children, visit a local farmer’s house to enjoy tea and homemade banana candy, and sample fresh tropical fruits directly from the orchard.

During your visit, enjoy a performance of Don Ca Tai Tu, the soulful folk music of southern Vietnam recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.

You may also visit a small traditional workshop producing nón bàng, a unique conical hat made from wild palm leaves, before heading to a local restaurant for a Southern-style Vietnamese lunch.

Bid farewell to the Mekong hosts and continue by road to Tra Vinh, a peaceful region known for its Khmer cultural heritage and shady boulevards lined with ancient trees.

Upon arrival, check in at Thala Trang Vinh, a charming eco-resort surrounded by tranquil gardens and natural landscapes—an ideal retreat to relax after a day of exploring the Mekong Delta.

Evening

After dinner, immerse yourself in Khmer culture with a traditional Apsara Dance Performance. For the Khmer people of southern Vietnam, dance is an important artistic expression that brings joy and community spirit to festivals and special ceremonies. Graceful hand movements, intricate costumes, and classical music combine to create a captivating cultural experience.

Overnight in Tra Vinh.

Morning

Start your day with a breath of fresh air and a delightful breakfast at the resort. Afterwards, set out on a cycling journey through the peaceful countryside of Trà Vinh.

Ride along the scenic rural paths of Cau Ke District, passing lush rice paddies and tropical fruit gardens while observing local farmers at work. Along the way, stop by Mrs. Thịa’s house to learn about the local lifestyle and the traditional practice of livestock farming in the Mekong Delta.

Continue cycling to visit a traditional rice milling house, where you will see how rice is processed using local methods. The journey then leads to a beautiful Khmer pagoda, where you can admire the intricate architecture and learn about Khmer Buddhist culture in southern Vietnam.

Before returning, stop at Thala Rest Stop to enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding rice fields. Here you will meet local farmers and learn about Trà Vinh’s specialty — the creamy Macapuno coconut, as well as the native “mù u” tree, traditionally used to produce natural oil and torches.

Conclude the cycling experience by tasting fresh Macapuno coconut in the tranquil countryside before returning to Thala Trang Vinh to check out. Afterwards, depart by road for Soc Trang.

Afternoon

Arriving in Soc Trang, begin your exploration with a visit to the remarkable Clay Pagoda, famous for its extraordinary collection of clay statues, clay candles, and intricate handmade sculptures created by generations of local artisans.

Continue to the peaceful Bat Pagoda, one of the most well-known Khmer temples in the region, where thousands of bats rest in the surrounding trees — a unique sight closely associated with the pagoda.

After the visit, head to Can Tho, the vibrant capital of the Mekong Delta and gateway to the region’s famous floating markets.

Evening

The evening is free at leisure to stroll along the riverfront, explore the lively local markets, or simply relax and enjoy the atmosphere of this dynamic Mekong city.

Overnight in Can Tho.

Morning

Early this morning, transfer to the pier for a private boat excursion to the famous Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest and most vibrant floating market in the Mekong Delta. As your boat glides along the busy waterways, observe dozens of wooden boats loaded with pineapples, watermelons, sweet potatoes, and other fresh produce. Traders advertise their goods by hanging samples on long bamboo poles, creating a colorful and fascinating scene that reflects the traditional river-based commerce of the region.

You may also stop to enjoy a cup of Vietnamese coffee or fresh fruit purchased directly from the vendors’ boats, offering a unique glimpse into daily life on the Mekong River.

After the market visit, return to the hotel for breakfast and check-out, then visit the elegant Binh Thuy Ancient House, a beautifully preserved 19th-century residence blending French colonial and traditional Vietnamese architectural styles. The house, surrounded by lush gardens and antique furnishings, offers insight into the lifestyle of a prosperous Mekong Delta family during the colonial period.

Later, depart for Chau Doc, a charming riverside town near the Cambodian border known for its cultural diversity and spiritual landmarks. Upon arrival, check in at the picturesque Victoria Nui Sam Lodge, nestled on the slopes of Sam Mountain and offering sweeping views over rice fields and canals.

Afternoon

Set out on a boat excursion along the Mekong waterways to visit a traditional Chau Doc Cham Village, home to the Cham ethnic minority who practice Islam. Here you will see stilt houses lining the riverbanks, visit a local mosque, and learn about the Cham community’s distinctive culture, weaving traditions, and way of life.

After the visit, return to your lodge in time to enjoy the spectacular sunset views from Sam Mountain, overlooking the vast Mekong Delta landscape.

The evening is free at leisure for dinner.

Overnight at Victoria Nui Sam Lodge, Chau Doc.

Morning

After breakfast and check-out, set out for a visit to the beautiful Tra Su Bird Sanctuary, one of the most remarkable ecological areas in the Mekong Delta. Nestled within a vast flooded forest of cajuput trees, this peaceful sanctuary is home to a rich diversity of wildlife and more than a hundred species of birds.

Board a small boat or sampan to glide quietly through the emerald-green waterways covered with floating duckweed. As you move deeper into the forest, you may spot herons, egrets, storks, and other water birds nesting in the trees or soaring overhead. The tranquil scenery and dense vegetation make Tra Su a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers, offering a rare glimpse into the untouched ecosystems of the Mekong Delta.

Leaving Tra Su behind, continue by road to the coastal town of Ha Tien, located near the Cambodian border. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, limestone hills, and views of the Gulf of Thailand, Ha Tien has long been a cultural crossroads influenced by Vietnamese, Khmer, and Chinese heritage.

Afternoon

Upon arrival, begin your exploration with a visit to the scenic Hang Pagoda, also known as Cave Pagoda, a unique Buddhist temple built partly inside a natural limestone cave overlooking the sea.

Later, enjoy a boat trip to Phu Tu Island, a small offshore island famous for its striking rock formations rising from the clear waters of the Gulf of Thailand and its peaceful coastal scenery.

Evening

The rest of the day is free at leisure to explore this charming seaside town at your own pace. Wander along the waterfront, discover local markets and cafés, or simply relax and enjoy the authentic atmosphere of Ha Tien.

Overnight in Ha Tien.

After breakfast and check-out, transfer to the pier for a speedboat journey (approximately 1 hour 15 minutes) across the Gulf of Thailand to Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island and one of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful tropical destinations.

Known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush tropical forests, Phu Quoc offers a perfect blend of nature, relaxation, and island charm. The island is also famous for its fresh seafood, traditional fish sauce production, and vibrant marine life.

Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your resort. After check-in, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing on the beach or exploring the surroundings.

Overnight in Phu Quoc Island.

Today you will embark on a private speedboat adventure to explore the beautiful islands in the south of Phu Quoc.

Your guide will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to An Thoi pier, where you will board your private charter speedboat for a journey through the stunning An Thoi Archipelago.

Your first stop is the picturesque Fingernail Island, known for its powdery white sand and turquoise waters—perfect for swimming, relaxing, and photography.

Continue to Gam Ghi Island, famous for its clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling and discovering colorful marine life.

The journey then takes you to May Rut Island, a peaceful tropical island with pristine beaches and lush coconut trees. Here you can relax on the beach, swim in the calm waters, enjoy fresh fruits and drinks, and soak in the tranquil island atmosphere.

After your island exploration, return to the harbor and transfer back to your resort where the rest of the day is free at your leisure.

Overnight in Phu Quoc Island.

Today is free at leisure to fully enjoy the tropical beauty of Phu Quoc.

Relax on the island’s beautiful beaches, take a swim in the warm waters, or enjoy the facilities of your resort. You may also choose to explore the island independently, visit local fishing villages, or enjoy fresh seafood at one of the seaside restaurants.

This final full day on the island is the perfect opportunity to unwind, recharge, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of this tropical paradise.

Overnight in Phu Quoc Island.

After breakfast, enjoy some free time until your driver transfers you to Phu Quoc International Airport for your onward flight.

End of services.