Day 1: Arrival in Bangkok & Free Time

Land at Bangkok airport, welcomed by Tonkin Voyage's driver for a guideless city transfer. Check into your hotel (rooms available from 2 PM) and enjoy some free time for personal discovery. The glorious history of Thailand's capital, Bangkok, is intimately tied to the reigning Chakri dynasty. Meal on your own. Overnight in Bangkok.

Included: Private transport, Accommodation, Meals: None

Day 2: Bangkok City Tour

After breakfast at the hotel, start your morning with a visit to the grand Royal Palace, the ceremonial heart of the Thai royal family. In the same complex, marvel at the magnificent Wat Phra Kaew, home to the Emerald Buddha. Continue to Wat Pho, the giant reclining Buddha's abode.

In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Chinatown, Bangkok's liveliest district, famed for its diverse culinary offerings from the region. Visit Wat Traimit, known for its Golden Buddha. Then, embark on a long-tail boat excursion along the Chao Phraya River and its bustling inner canals, offering fantastic glimpses of local life. Stop by Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, before returning to the hotel for some relaxation time. Meal on your own. Overnight in Bangkok.

Included: Private transport, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Entrance fees, Meals: Breakfast

Day 3: Bangkok to Maeklong, Damnoen Saduak, and Night Train to Chiang Mai

After breakfast, venture just a short drive from Bangkok's busy streets, where the high-rise urban landscape melts into a lush green rural idyll. This day trip to Samut Songkhram province, an hour from the capital, unveils the traditional charms of Thai countryside.

Start with a visit to Mae Klong railway market, a unique market that clears the tracks whenever a train passes through. Then, proceed to the touristy yet iconic Damnoen Saduak floating market. Enjoy a leisurely paddle boat ride through the canals to witness the old part of the floating market and canal-side local life. After wandering through the vibrant market, return to Bangkok to catch the night train to Chiang Mai (2nd class). Meal on your own. Overnight on the train.

Included: Private transport, Entrance fees, Meals: Breakfast, Train Bangkok – Chiang Mai

Day 4: Chiang Mai – Doi Inthanon National Park

Bright and early, our guide and driver greeted us at the train station, ready to whisk us away to a local restaurant or hotel for a hearty breakfast. The adventure of the day was heading to Doi Inthanon National Park, which meant a scenic 2-hour drive to reach Thailand's highest peak. The anticipation was palpable.

Upon arrival, we embarked on a 2-3 hour trek through the jungle, following a narrow mountain trail that promised wonders. The highlight? A stunning hidden waterfall nestled within the lush greenery. It was like stepping into a lost world. Our path wound through farmland showcasing coffee plantations, flower farms, and picturesque terraced rice fields before reaching the Pagagayaw Karen hill tribe village. Here, we savored locally grown coffee, its rich aroma a perfect complement to the surrounding beauty. Our next stop was the Vachiratharn Waterfall, a breathtaking 70-meter cascade, where the fresh, cool spray was a welcome refreshment.

Before heading back to Chiang Mai, we admired the beautiful architecture of Nopamaytanidol Chedi and Phra Mahatat Nopaphon Bhumisiri, erected to honor the 60th anniversaries of King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit. It was a fitting end to an unforgettable day.

Included: Private transport, accommodation, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, breakfast.

Day 5: Chiang Mai - Chiang Rai

After breakfast at the hotel, we set off for Chiang Rai, taking the scenic route through Doi Saket, with its rolling hills, valleys, and quaint villages. A pit stop at the Mae Khachan hot spring provided a delightful break for coffee, restroom needs, and a foot soak in the spring waters. Wat Rong Khun, the stunning White Temple, was next, dazzling us with its white color and glittering glass in the plaster under the sunlight.

Lunch was at our leisure at a local restaurant, followed by a peaceful cruise on the Mae Kok River from Chiang Rai to a Karen village, where we had the chance to see or even feed elephants. The evening was ours to relax at the hotel in Chiang Rai, dinner on our own.

Included: Private transport, accommodation, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, breakfast.

Day 6: Chiang Rai – Mae Salong – Golden Triangle - Chiang Rai

Breakfast at the hotel kicked off our day of exploration. First up was Doi Mae Salong, with its lush green hillsides dotted with tea plantations, where we tasted some of the region's exquisite tea. We visited the Akha village of Loyo and the Lisu village of Ban Haygo, each offering a glimpse into diverse ethnic cultures.

Our journey continued to Mae Sai, the northernmost point of Thailand and a bustling border market with Myanmar. Then, it was off to the Golden Triangle, where we marveled at the confluence of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos from a long-tail boat on the Laos side and a hilltop view.

Back in Chiang Rai for the night, we reflected on the day's rich experiences.

Included: Private transport, accommodation, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, breakfast.

Day 7: Chiang Rai – Chiang Mai

The morning saw us embarking on a 3-hour drive back to Chiang Mai. Our destination was the famed Doi Suthep hill, with its iconic pagoda accessible via a 306-step staircase flanked by giant nagas. The panoramic view from the top was simply breathtaking.

Next, we visited Doi Pui and the Hmong village, offering a fascinating mix of traditional and modern life. The market's blend of mass-produced and handmade items, including traditional Hmong clothing, was a testament to the village's vibrant culture.

As we returned to Chiang Mai for our final night, the journey's end was bittersweet, filled with memories of landscapes, cultures, and flavors we'd never forget.

Included: Private transport, accommodation, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, breakfast.

Day 8: Chiang Mai - Elephant Jungle Sanctuary

We started the day with an early breakfast at the hotel before setting off on a group tour with an English-speaking guide and shared transfer to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary. The drive took us about an hour and a half south of Chiang Mai, through rolling hills, dense forests, and local farmlands.

Upon arrival around 10:30 am, we met our guide and trekked for about 10-15 minutes through the jungle to the sanctuary. There, we donned traditional Karen clothes and received an insightful lesson on elephant anatomy, history, and behavior.

By 11:00 am, it was time to meet the elephants. Feeding, interacting, and playing with these gentle giants in their natural habitat was an enriching experience. We learned about their histories and behaviors, snapping plenty of photos along the way.

Lunch was a delightful affair with Thai dishes and fresh fruits at noon, followed by learning how to make medicinal herb balls for the elephants, feeding them, and then walking with them to the river for a bath and brush session.

At 2:00 pm, we joined the elephants for a therapeutic mud spa, followed by swimming in the river and more photo opportunities.

After changing clothes and saying goodbye to our new elephant friends at 3:00 pm, we left the sanctuary, arriving back in Chiang Mai around 5:00 to 5:30 pm.

Dinner was on our own, and we spent another night in Chiang Mai, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences of the day.

Included: Private transport, accommodation, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, meals: breakfast, lunch.

Day 9: Chiang Rai – Flight to Hanoi

After breakfast at the hotel, we had the morning free for personal discovery. At 10:30 am, we transferred to the airport for our 13:20 flight to Hanoi with Thai AirAsia, arriving at 14:50. Our driver welcomed us and took us to our hotel for the night, with meals on our own.

Included: Private transport, accommodation, meals: breakfast.

Day 10: Hanoi City Tour

Breakfast at the hotel was followed by an 8:00 am departure for a tour to discover Hanoi. We started with a walking tour to explore the city's millennia-old history, culture, and traditions, followed by a cyclo ride through the old quarter and the French quarter, discovering landmarks like the Opera House, Indochina Bank, the former Superior Residence of Tonkin (Sofitel Metropole Hotel), the medicinal plant street, the cathedral, and the surroundings of Hoan Kiem Lake.

We then took a heritage walk along West Lake, visiting Tran Quoc Pagoda, Hanoi's oldest pagoda, and Quan Thanh Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site dating back to the 11th century.

In the afternoon, we visited the Temple of Literature, an important cultural and historical monument of Hanoi, showcasing the ancient Vietnamese culture.

Our exploration continued to Phung Hung mural street, capturing images of ancient and contemporary city life on the walls under the viaduct. We wandered through Dong Xuan Market, the city's largest market, and a local market at its back, vibrant with life and encounters.

We finished our day by discovering the Long Bien Bridge, a colonial-era structure offering stunning views of the Red River and a glimpse into the city's bustling life.

Dinner was on our own, with another night spent in Hanoi.

Included: Private transport, accommodation, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, meals: breakfast.

Day 11: Hanoi – Pu Luong Nature Reserve

After breakfast, we transferred to Pu Luong (165 km – about 4 hours' drive), with several stops to admire the stunning landscapes and take photos of the terraced rice fields.

Upon arrival at Pu Luong Retreat, we checked in and enjoyed lunch at the lodge.

Then, we transferred to a suspension bridge over the Cham River to start our walk, exploring magnificent waterwheels and learning how water is moved from the river through handmade bamboo aqueducts.

After reaching the picturesque Lap Tan bridge, we returned to the lodge to change clothes. Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge.

Included: Private transport, accommodation, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Day 12: Pu Luong – Walks in Pho Doan – Ban Hieu

Breakfast at the Lodge set the tone for a day of exploration, with two options for experiencing Pu Luong's beauty.

Option 1 offered an easier trek through villages and terraced rice fields, revealing a picturesque village nestled at the foot of a mountain. The journey included a walk along the Ma River, a visit to Pho Doan market, and a 2-hour walk to Ban Hieu, with lunch at a local home.

Option 2 promised a more challenging hike but with even more authentic landscapes. We trekked through villages, terraced fields, and diverse terrain, enjoying a simple picnic lunch and the refreshing waters of a nearby river before returning to the lodge.

Included: Private transport, accommodation, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, lunch, dinner.

Day 13: Pu Luong to Ninh Binh – Authentic Villages

We kicked off the day with breakfast before setting off for Ninh Binh, a mesmerizing 3.5-hour drive away, known as "Halong Bay on Land" for its limestone hills and lush vegetation. Upon arrival, we explored the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, diving into the history of Emperors Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh.

Climbing Mount Truong Yen offered a panoramic view over Truong Yen village, its ancient houses, and limestone mountains encircled by rice fields. The afternoon brought us to Kim Son to marvel at the unique Phat Diem Cathedral, blending Buddhist pagoda and Catholic church architectures.

A visit to Mrs. Thom in Yen Khanh let us wander through the village, discovering traditional crafts like mat weaving and rice noodle making, guided by the local villagers. We ended the day back at our hotel, with the evening free to explore.

Included: Private transport, accommodation, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, breakfast, lunch.

Day 14: Ninh Binh - Halong Bay on Land

After breakfast, we dedicated the day to exploring Ninh Binh's stunning landscapes. An early morning bamboo boat ride in Thung Nham avoided the crowds, gliding through flooded rice fields and karst peaks. Next, we visited Bich Dong Pagoda, nestled on Ngu Nhac Mountain, a serene setting featured in the film "Indochine."

In the afternoon, a walk or bike ride took us to Thai Vi Temple amidst rice fields and mountains, showcasing the local life and landscapes. The journey continued to Hang Mua, climbing 486 stone steps for a breathtaking view of the "Halong Bay on Land."

We returned to our hotel, with the evening at leisure.

Included: Private transport, accommodation, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, breakfast.

Day 15: Ninh Binh to Lan Ha Bay - Overnight Cruise

Breakfast at the hotel was followed by a drive to Hai Phong and a ferry to Cat Ba Island. Boarding our junk at Ben Beo, we sailed through Lan Ha Bay, enjoying a seafood lunch and a kayak trip through a tunnel to a secluded lake.

The afternoon offered relaxation and a sunset view in a tranquil bay, far from other boats. Dinner and overnight were on board, promising serene moments under the stars.

Included: Private transport, cabin with private bath, bilingual guide on board, entrance fees, lunch, dinner.

Day 16: Lan Ha Bay to Hanoi - Overnight Train to Hue

An early start allowed us to soak in the sunrise and enjoy breakfast before exploring Lan Ha Bay's beaches and floating villages. A bike ride in Viet Hai village immersed us in local life within the national park.

After returning to the boat and checking out, we lunched near Van Boi before disembarking on Cat Ba Island. The afternoon journey took us back to Hanoi, in time for our overnight train to Hue, departing at 7:30 pm.

Included: Private transport, bilingual guide on board, entrance fees, breakfast, lunch onboard, Hanoi-Hue train ticket.

Day 17: Hue – Imperial Visits

Arriving in Hue at 8:50 am, we were greeted and taken for a local breakfast of BUN BO HUE. The day's visits began with Dong Ba Market, the Imperial City resembling Beijing's Forbidden City, and a traditional house-garden, showcasing Hue's architectural heritage.

We visited Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue's iconic symbol, and the serene Tu Duc Emperor's Tomb, learning about the Nguyen Dynasty and French colonial history. The day concluded with visits to a local incense and conical hat-making family.

In the evening, we transferred to the hotel, with dinner at our discretion.

Included: Private transport, accommodation, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, breakfast, lunch.

Day 18: Hue to Hoi An via Lang Co Beach and Hai Van Pass

After breakfast, we met our driver for the scenic transfer to Lang Co, where we had the chance to explore the beautiful beach and its fishing village. Then we continued our journey to Hoi An via Danang, a drive of approximately 120 km or 3 hours. The route took us through the Hai Van Pass, offering a breathtaking panorama of Central Vietnam's coast. We arrived in Hoi An in the late afternoon, with the evening free to explore and overnight in Hoi An.

Included: Private transport, accommodation, breakfast.

Day 19: Hoi An - Authentic Villages & Old Town

Starting the day with breakfast at the hotel, at 8:00 am, we embarked on a bicycle ride (about 5km) towards the Van Lang fisherman village and the Bay Mau water coconut forest. This 7ha area, surrounded by mangrove forests, canals, and coconut-covered houses, was a hideout during the Vietnam War and is now known for its seafood products. A village stroll and a cruise in a "Thung chai" (basket boat) introduced us to traditional fishing techniques and the coconut forest.

We continued our bike ride to Tra Que vegetable village (about 7km), famous for its herbs, mint, and basil. We learned about the village's history, vegetable cultivation, and their use in traditional Vietnamese medicine. After touring the gardens, we joined the farmers in preparing and fertilizing the land with lake seaweed, participating in gardening activities.

Returning to Hoi An's city center (about 4km) for lunch, the afternoon was dedicated to exploring the UNESCO-listed Old Town. We admired the classical Vietnamese architecture, visited the Pottery Museum, the 200-year-old Tam Ky House, the 17th-century Japanese Covered Bridge, Chinese temples (Cantonese Congregation and Fujian Congregation), Tran Family Chapel, and the vibrant market. The evening was free for leisure and overnight in Hoi An.

Included: Private transport, accommodation, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, breakfast.

Day 20: Hoi An - Free Day

Breakfast at the hotel was followed by a free day for personal exploration of the city or relaxing at the beach. Meals were on your own, with another night's stay in Hoi An.

Included: Accommodation, breakfast.

Day 21: Hoi An to Da Nang - Flight to Sai Gon

After breakfast, we transferred without a guide to Da Nang airport for our flight to Sai Gon. Upon arrival, we were welcomed and transferred to the city for check-in. The afternoon was free for personal discovery. Meals were on your own, with overnight in Sai Gon.

Included: Private transport, accommodation, breakfast.

Day 22: Sai Gon. City Tour

Breakfast at your hotel.

Saigon, or Ho Chi Minh City since 1976, is both the largest city and the economic lung of Vietnam. Commerce thrives here, and as a sign of the times, new skyscrapers emerge from the ground every year.

8:30 AM: Walking tour for an orientation visit of the city's historical sites: the Old Saigon Post Office, the largest post office in the country, built in the early 20th century by the French Postal Administration; Notre-Dame Cathedral, constructed between 1877 and 1883; Dong Khoi Street (formerly Catinat Street appreciated by the French) with all its luxury shops and lively atmosphere.

Continue your day's visit with the Reunification Palace, which served as the Presidential Palace of the South during the separation period between North and South Vietnam before 1975.

In the afternoon, visit the history museum and explore the Chinese district of Cholon, particularly the Thien Hau Pagoda and the lively Binh Tay Market, where you can find absolutely everything you can imagine, all in a warm atmosphere.

Then visit the Ao Dai Museum in Ho Chi Minh City, a sanctuary of the Vietnamese dress, near the Bitexco building.

Finally, you will head to the BITEXCO FINANCIAL TOWER. Located in the historical district of Saigon, the Bitexco Tower is 262 meters tall with 68 floors, making it the tallest building in Saigon. It symbolizes the modernization of Vietnam and its economic development. The 49th floor of the financial tower, known as the sky deck, is open to the public. The sky deck offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of Saigon. You can walk around the floor and enjoy the panorama. You may also have a coffee or a drink (at your expense).

Meals on your own. Overnight in Sai Gon.

Includes: Private transport, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Entrance fees, Meals: Breakfast

Day 23: Sai Gon – Ben Tre – Nam Hien Lodge

Breakfast at your hotel.

8:30 AM: Departure with the guide towards Ben Tre.

Upon arrival in Ben Tre, you board a local boat. This takes you on the river, to discover the daily activities of its inhabitants. You can witness, among other things, the making of bricks and coconut fiber. Seasonal fruit tasting. Continue to the Cai Son and Nhon Thanh canals where local families specialize in mat making. Walk or motorized vehicle (xe loi) ride through the rice fields and vegetable plots to discover the surroundings.

Free lunch before boarding a boat again to explore the Cai Coi canal.

Finally, transfer to Chơ Lach where you will settle in at Mr. Năm Hiền's rural lodge, located in the heart of the green region. You will meet a three-generation family in a typical delta house. In front of this house, in the orchard of grapefruit and longan trees, after crossing a charming little bridge, you will find a large prestigious wooden house in an old style with traditional decorations from Southern Vietnam. Mr. Năm tries to revive certain values of the region through his lodge. 24 precious wood columns, carved objects, ancient furniture, the ancestors' altar… give you an image of the life of wealthy families in the feudal era. The house's tiles remain from the 18th century.

In the evening, participate in cooking with Mr. Năm's family. Dinner included. Overnight in a private room.

Includes: Private transport, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Entrance fees, Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.

Day 24: Nam Hien Lodge. Visit – Can Tho

Breakfast at Nam Hien Lodge.

In the morning, bike ride on the beautiful village paths to meet the inhabitants of Chợ Lách. During the walk, you will admire the fauna and flora of the Mekong Delta region and then visit a pagoda next to the river. You take a detour to the Chợ Lách market. It is divided into 2 parts. The first is a food market selling different fruits, fish, and shellfish. The second is dedicated to textile products where you can find gift and souvenir items.

Next, by car, visit the Cái Mơn bonsai village about 12km from the Lodge. This place is an important supplier of bonsais and nurseries for the major cities of southern Vietnam. You can meet a nurseryman who will introduce you to this beautiful profession, and you may be tempted by a little walk in this charming village. The end of the lunar year (in January), when the plants are ready to be delivered to other regions of the country, is the best time to visit.

Return to Nam Hien Lodge for lunch included.

In the afternoon, drive to Can Tho where you arrive in mid-afternoon.

Visit the old Binh Thuy house (8km) or the old communal house. Then, check into your hotel, and you are free for your own exploration. Dinner on your own. Overnight in Can Tho

Includes: Private transport, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Entrance fees, Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 25: Can Tho. Floating Market - Con Son Island – Sai Gon – Departure Flight

Early morning, motorboat ride to visit the Cai Rang floating market. You will appreciate the wide variety of products sold at the market, from well-known fruits like mangoes and bananas to more exotic ones like mangosteens, milk apples, sweet longans, and aromatic durians. Fully satisfied with the sweet smells and fruity flavors of the market, return to your hotel for breakfast.

Then, transfer to the CÔ BẮC pier where you board a LOCAL FERRY and cruise towards CON SON island. Upon arrival, visit the Con Son Fishing Village where you will find around fifty fish ponds of various colorful fish types. You can then feed the fish. Next, cruise to a fruit garden where you will see different types of seasonal fruits that you will enjoy tasting.

Finally, return by FERRY to the pier where your driver awaits you for the return trip to Sai Gon (200km – 4 hours' drive) heading to the airport for your departure flight. Meals on your own. Overnight on board.

Includes: Private transport, English-speaking guide, Entrance fees, Meals: Breakfast