Experience the incredible diversity of Vietnam on this 17-day guided group journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. Explore bustling cities, cruise through breathtaking landscapes, discover centuries-old traditions, and spend time giving back through a meaningful community project.
17 Days | Join-in Group Tour | English-speaking Guides | Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City
NEXT 2026 DEPARTURES: October 2 (only 1 spot left) & November 6
NEXT 2027 DEPARTURES: January 8 & November 12
TO BOOK THIS TOUR: This is a join-in group tour which requires booking ahead. Write your preferred departure date in the purchase form, and we'll get back to you within 3 business days to confirm availability.
Description
From the lively streets of Hanoi to the peaceful waterways of the Mekong Delta, this journey showcases the very best of Vietnam while offering meaningful opportunities to connect with local people and culture.
Cruise through the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, cycle among the rice paddies of Ninh Binh, explore the imperial city of Hue, wander the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, and experience everyday life in the Mekong Delta with an authentic homestay.
A highlight of the trip is spending three days supporting a local community development project alongside a trusted NGO. Projects vary depending on local needs and may include sustainable farming initiatives, housing improvements, or clean water projects—allowing you to contribute to something meaningful while travelling responsibly.
Whether you're travelling solo, with friends, or as a couple, this guided group tour is a wonderful way to experience Vietnam while sharing the journey with like-minded travellers.
Day itinerary
Day 1 | Welcome to Hanoi
Arrive in Vietnam's vibrant capital, where you'll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Meet your fellow travellers over a welcome dinner and begin getting to know the group.
Day 2 | Discover Hanoi
Explore Hanoi on a guided walking tour through bustling markets, Hoàn Kiếm Lake, hidden alleyways and the city's historic streets before enjoying a traditional water puppet performance.
Day 3 | Ha Long Bay
Cruise through the spectacular limestone islands of Ha Long Bay on an overnight boat. Spend the afternoon kayaking, swimming or relaxing on deck before watching the sunset over the bay.
Day 4 | Ninh Binh
Begin the morning with optional Tai Chi before travelling to Ninh Binh, where you'll stay in unique bamboo bungalows surrounded by peaceful countryside.
Day 5 | Rice Fields & River Life
Cycle through rural villages and rice paddies before taking a scenic sampan ride through the limestone landscapes of Tam Coc. In the evening, board the overnight train to Hue.
Day 6 | Imperial Hue
Discover Vietnam's former imperial capital, visiting highlights including the Imperial Citadel and Thien Mu Pagoda before preparing for the community project.
Days 7–9 | Community Project
Spend three days working alongside local partners on a community development project. Activities vary depending on local needs and may include supporting sustainable agriculture, housing improvements, or community infrastructure. No previous experience is required.
Day 10 | Hue to Hoi An
Travel one of Vietnam's most scenic coastal routes via the famous Hai Van Pass before arriving in the charming UNESCO-listed town of Hoi An.
Day 11 | Cooking Class & Basket Boats
Explore the coconut forests by traditional basket boat before joining a hands-on Vietnamese cooking class using fresh local ingredients.
Day 12 | Free Day in Hoi An
Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore Hoi An's historic streets, visit An Bang Beach, browse local markets, or join one of several optional excursions.
Day 13 | Ho Chi Minh City
Fly south to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and spend the evening exploring District 1 with your guide.
Day 14 | Cu Chi Tunnels
Learn about Vietnam's modern history during a guided visit to the remarkable Cu Chi Tunnels before returning to the city.
Day 15 | Mekong Delta Homestay
Travel into the Mekong Delta for an authentic homestay experience. Enjoy home-cooked meals, meet a local family, and experience everyday life on the river.
Day 16 | Exploring the Mekong
Cruise through the waterways of the Mekong Delta, visiting local workshops and family-run businesses before returning to Ho Chi Minh City for a farewell dinner.
Day 17 | Departure
After breakfast, it's time to say goodbye to your travel companions. Your guides will be happy to assist with any onward travel arrangements.
✅ Inclusions
16 nights' accommodation (twin share)
Airport pickup in Hanoi
All transportation during the tour
Domestic flight from Hoi An (Da Nang) to Ho Chi Minh City
Overnight Ha Long Bay cruise
Overnight train from Ninh Binh to Hue
Local English-speaking guides throughout
Daily breakfast
7 lunches
6 dinners
Guided sightseeing and cultural experiences
Community development project
Ha Long Bay kayaking
Sunrise Tai Chi
Ninh Binh cycling tour
Tam Coc river cruise
Water puppet show
Vietnamese cooking class
Basket boat experience
Cu Chi Tunnels tour
Mekong homestay
Mekong river cruise
$20 donation per booking to Gravity Water
❌ Not Included
International flights
Travel insurance (essential)
Visa fees (where applicable)
Vaccinations
Personal expenses and souvenirs
Additional meals and drinks not listed
Optional activities during free time
Tips for guides and drivers (optional but appreciated)
Private room upgrade (available at an additional cost)
📝 Good to know
This experience is operated by one of Travelynne's trusted local partners and runs as a guided group tour.
Duration: 17 days
Route: Hanoi → Ho Chi Minh City
Group size: Up to 18 travellers
Accommodation: Twin-share hotels, cruise boat and local homestay (private room upgrade available)
Suitable for: Solo travellers, couples and friends aged 18+
Community project: No previous experience is required. Activities vary depending on community needs and are completed alongside experienced local partners.
Travel style: A balanced mix of culture, nature, local experiences and responsible travel.
Experience the incredible diversity of Vietnam on this 17-day guided group journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. Explore bustling cities, cruise through breathtaking landscapes, discover centuries-old traditions, and spend time giving back through a meaningful community project.
17 Days | Join-in Group Tour | English-speaking Guides | Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City
NEXT 2026 DEPARTURES: October 2 (only 1 spot left) & November 6
NEXT 2027 DEPARTURES: January 8 & November 12
TO BOOK THIS TOUR: This is a join-in group tour which requires booking ahead. Write your preferred departure date in the purchase form, and we'll get back to you within 3 business days to confirm availability.
Description
From the lively streets of Hanoi to the peaceful waterways of the Mekong Delta, this journey showcases the very best of Vietnam while offering meaningful opportunities to connect with local people and culture.
Cruise through the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, cycle among the rice paddies of Ninh Binh, explore the imperial city of Hue, wander the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, and experience everyday life in the Mekong Delta with an authentic homestay.
A highlight of the trip is spending three days supporting a local community development project alongside a trusted NGO. Projects vary depending on local needs and may include sustainable farming initiatives, housing improvements, or clean water projects—allowing you to contribute to something meaningful while travelling responsibly.
Whether you're travelling solo, with friends, or as a couple, this guided group tour is a wonderful way to experience Vietnam while sharing the journey with like-minded travellers.
Day itinerary
Day 1 | Welcome to Hanoi
Arrive in Vietnam's vibrant capital, where you'll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Meet your fellow travellers over a welcome dinner and begin getting to know the group.
Day 2 | Discover Hanoi
Explore Hanoi on a guided walking tour through bustling markets, Hoàn Kiếm Lake, hidden alleyways and the city's historic streets before enjoying a traditional water puppet performance.
Day 3 | Ha Long Bay
Cruise through the spectacular limestone islands of Ha Long Bay on an overnight boat. Spend the afternoon kayaking, swimming or relaxing on deck before watching the sunset over the bay.
Day 4 | Ninh Binh
Begin the morning with optional Tai Chi before travelling to Ninh Binh, where you'll stay in unique bamboo bungalows surrounded by peaceful countryside.
Day 5 | Rice Fields & River Life
Cycle through rural villages and rice paddies before taking a scenic sampan ride through the limestone landscapes of Tam Coc. In the evening, board the overnight train to Hue.
Day 6 | Imperial Hue
Discover Vietnam's former imperial capital, visiting highlights including the Imperial Citadel and Thien Mu Pagoda before preparing for the community project.
Days 7–9 | Community Project
Spend three days working alongside local partners on a community development project. Activities vary depending on local needs and may include supporting sustainable agriculture, housing improvements, or community infrastructure. No previous experience is required.
Day 10 | Hue to Hoi An
Travel one of Vietnam's most scenic coastal routes via the famous Hai Van Pass before arriving in the charming UNESCO-listed town of Hoi An.
Day 11 | Cooking Class & Basket Boats
Explore the coconut forests by traditional basket boat before joining a hands-on Vietnamese cooking class using fresh local ingredients.
Day 12 | Free Day in Hoi An
Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore Hoi An's historic streets, visit An Bang Beach, browse local markets, or join one of several optional excursions.
Day 13 | Ho Chi Minh City
Fly south to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and spend the evening exploring District 1 with your guide.
Day 14 | Cu Chi Tunnels
Learn about Vietnam's modern history during a guided visit to the remarkable Cu Chi Tunnels before returning to the city.
Day 15 | Mekong Delta Homestay
Travel into the Mekong Delta for an authentic homestay experience. Enjoy home-cooked meals, meet a local family, and experience everyday life on the river.
Day 16 | Exploring the Mekong
Cruise through the waterways of the Mekong Delta, visiting local workshops and family-run businesses before returning to Ho Chi Minh City for a farewell dinner.
Day 17 | Departure
After breakfast, it's time to say goodbye to your travel companions. Your guides will be happy to assist with any onward travel arrangements.
✅ Inclusions
16 nights' accommodation (twin share)
Airport pickup in Hanoi
All transportation during the tour
Domestic flight from Hoi An (Da Nang) to Ho Chi Minh City
Overnight Ha Long Bay cruise
Overnight train from Ninh Binh to Hue
Local English-speaking guides throughout
Daily breakfast
7 lunches
6 dinners
Guided sightseeing and cultural experiences
Community development project
Ha Long Bay kayaking
Sunrise Tai Chi
Ninh Binh cycling tour
Tam Coc river cruise
Water puppet show
Vietnamese cooking class
Basket boat experience
Cu Chi Tunnels tour
Mekong homestay
Mekong river cruise
$20 donation per booking to Gravity Water
❌ Not Included
International flights
Travel insurance (essential)
Visa fees (where applicable)
Vaccinations
Personal expenses and souvenirs
Additional meals and drinks not listed
Optional activities during free time
Tips for guides and drivers (optional but appreciated)
Private room upgrade (available at an additional cost)
📝 Good to know
This experience is operated by one of Travelynne's trusted local partners and runs as a guided group tour.
Duration: 17 days
Route: Hanoi → Ho Chi Minh City
Group size: Up to 18 travellers
Accommodation: Twin-share hotels, cruise boat and local homestay (private room upgrade available)
Suitable for: Solo travellers, couples and friends aged 18+
Community project: No previous experience is required. Activities vary depending on community needs and are completed alongside experienced local partners.
Travel style: A balanced mix of culture, nature, local experiences and responsible travel.
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