Vietnam adventure tours - 5 unique itineraries

Vietnam, with its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and diverse terrain, is a paradise for adventure seekers. From the towering limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay to the bustling streets of Hanoi, this Southeast Asian gem offers an array of thrilling experiences for travellers. In this article, we'll explore five unique Vietnam adventure tour itineraries that will take you off the beaten path and into the heart of Vietnam's natural beauty and cultural richness. 

How to plan an adventure tour of Vietnam 

For your adventure tour of Vietnam, you’ll want to be very sure that you plan ahead as much as possible. Research and make a bucket list of your ideal destinations among the country’s diverse options. Make sure to take special care when packing, considering the gear you will need for each activity.

You’ll want to make sure you pick the right tour operator known for safety and experienced guides. Our tailor-made trip service makes going on your adventure easy. Our trips are planned meticulously by local travel experts and are completely customisable. 

Lastly, embrace the local culture by trying local cuisine, engaging with the community, and respecting customs, enhancing your overall adventure experience.

Is your trip to Vietnam just around the corner? Be prepared by reading our tips for traveling in Vietnam.

Best Adventure Activities in Vietnam

Vietnam is a land of diverse adventure possibilities, but five standout experiences truly showcase the country's beauty and spirit.

Halong Bay Cruise

A Halong Bay cruise is a must for any adventurer. Imagine sailing through emerald waters surrounded by towering limestone karsts topped with lush greenery. Kayak through hidden caves, explore fishing villages and witness stunning sunsets over the bay. This UNESCO World Heritage site promises unforgettable moments.

Fisherman Tour

Experience the life of a Vietnamese fisherman with a tour along the country's picturesque coastlines. Join local fishermen in their traditional boats, learn to cast nets, and even participate in fishing. This immersive journey will give you a deeper appreciation for the livelihoods of coastal communities.

Motorbike Tour

For the thrill-seekers, a motorbike tour through the winding roads of Vietnam offers a rush like no other. Zoom through scenic mountain passes in the north or ride along the coastline in the south. This is a fantastic way to explore remote areas and witness Vietnam's natural beauty up close.

Cu Chi Tunnels

Delve into history with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground passages used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Crawl through these narrow tunnels, see hidden trapdoors, and gain insight into the resilience of the Vietnamese people during this tumultuous period.

Mekong Delta Cruise

Explore the "Rice Bowl" of Vietnam, the Mekong Delta, on a serene river cruise. Witness the intricate network of canals, visit floating markets, and savor delicious local cuisine. The Mekong Delta offers a tranquil yet adventurous experience, with opportunities for cycling and village visits.

Adventure tour #1: Very Vietnam

Embark on an exhilarating adventure tour of Vietnam on this 3 week Vietnam itinerary, where every twist and turn reveals a tapestry of enchanting contrasts. Traverse through lush rice paddies, immerse yourself in the charm of traditional villages, haggle at bustling markets, and find serenity within the walls of ancient temples and pagodas. 

Experience the allure of romantic cities, set sail on a mesmerising cruise through the mystical wonderland of Halong Bay, unwind on untouched, sun-kissed beaches, and dive into the vibrant energy of bustling Ho Chi Minh City.

Itinerary overview

Embark on a 19-day adventure in Vietnam, filled with thrilling activities like exploring Hanoi's historic sites, biking through Mai Chau's villages, cruising through Halong Bay's stunning landscapes, biking in Hue's Kim Long Village, and enjoying the rich heritage of Hoi An's Ancient Town, all culminating in an exploration of the Cu Chi Tunnels before your departure. Read more.

Day 1

• Arrive at Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport.
• Transfer to your hotel and check-in.
• City tour in the afternoon, including Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, and the Old Quarter of Hanoi.

Day 2

• Full-day city tour, visiting Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, One-Pillar Pagoda, and the Army Museum.
• Explore the Temple of Literature, Fine Arts Museum, and Quan Thanh Temple.
• Enjoy a Water Puppet Show in the evening.

Day 3

• Explore more of Hanoi, including the Ho Chi Minh Museum, Hoa Lo Prison (Hanoi Hilton), and the Vietnamese Women's Museum.

Day 4

• Drive to Mai Chau Valley.
• Explore surrounding villages and rice paddies by bicycle or on foot.
• Overnight in a traditional stilt house.

Day 5

• Drive to Ninh Binh, known as "the Dry Halong Bay."
• Explore Trang An Grottoes by boat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.
• Overnight in Ninh Binh.

Day 6

• Drive to Halong via Hai Phong.
• Short sightseeing tour in Hai Phong.
• Overnight in Halong.

Day 7

• Explore Halong Bay, a World Heritage Site with limestone islets and caves.
• Visit islands, caves, and swim at Titov Beach.
• Dinner and overnight on board.

Day 8

• Continue your Halong Bay cruise in the morning.
• Return to Hanoi in the afternoon.
• Free time to explore Hanoi or relax.

Day 9 

• Fly to Hue.
• Take a boat trip on the Perfume River to visit Thien Mu Pagoda, Imperial City, and King Tu Duc’s Tomb.
• Stroll around Dong Ba Market if time allows.

Day 10

• Explore Kim Long Village by bicycle.
• Experience Hue’s cultural relics and art of living.

Day 11

• Drive to Hoi An via Danang, with a visit to the Cham Museum before proceeding to Hoi An.
• Free time to explore Hoi An in the evening.

Day 12

• Explore Hoi An's Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Visit Japanese Covered Bridge, Hoi An Museum, and the local markets.
• Relax on An Bang Beach.

Day 13

• Join a tour to explore the local fishermen community, including fishing techniques and a seafood lunch.

Day 14

• Fly to Nha Trang.
• Visit Po Nagar Cham Towers and Long Son Pagoda in Nha Trang.

Day 15

• Drive to Dalat.
• Explore Dalat, visiting the Summer Palace of Emperor Bao Dai, Xuan Huong Lake, and the "Crazy House."

Day 16

• Visit the Dalat Flower Garden and stop by tea, coffee, and rubber plantations.
• Drive to Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 17

• City tour, including the History Museum, former Presidential Palace, Central Post Office, and Notre Dame Cathedral.
• Afternoon visit to Thien Hau Temple, Chinatown, and Binh Tay Market.

Day 18

• Visit Tay Ninh to explore Cao-Daism.
• Continue to Cu Chi Tunnels, used during the Vietnam War.
• Return to Ho Chi Minh City for the night.

Day 19 

• Enjoy leisure time until your transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport for departure.

Don't have a lot of time at your disposal? Our 5-day Vietnam itineraries will come to your rescue.

Adventure tour #2: Ancient Meets Modern

Going on this 12-day itinerary of ancient & modern Vietnam promises an unparalleled experience. As you journey from the historic streets of Hanoi to the enchanting and romantic city of Hue, explore the coastal charm of Hoi An with its captivating ancient ruins, and dive into the vibrant energy of Saigon, now referred to as Ho Chi Minh City, you'll discover Vietnam to be a thrilling and fulfilling destination.

Itinerary overview

Embark on a thrilling adventure through Vietnam, from Hanoi to Halong Bay, Hoi An, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh City. Explore historic landmarks, cruise Halong Bay, ride electric scooters in Hoi An, experience traditional fishing in a local village, discover the treasures of Hue, and tour Saigon "Vietnamese Style" on a Vespa. This action-packed journey offers diverse and immersive experiences in each destination. Read more.

Day 1

• Arrival day in Hanoi
• Free time for exploration

Day 2

• Full-Day Hanoi Photography Tour
• Explore Old Quarter with photographer
• Visit Ngoc Son Temple, St. Joseph Cathedral, Hang Quat Street
• See Long Bien Bridge
• Lunch at a selected restaurant
• Visit Ba Dinh Square, Ho Chi Minh mausoleum, One-pillar pagoda, Temple of Literature

Day 3

• Departure from Hanoi to Halong Bay
• Halong Bay cruise
• Visit Thien Cung grotto
• Enjoy fresh seafood
• Return to Hanoi

Day 4

• Day at leisure

Day 5

• Hoi An Electric Scooter Tour
• Visit Cam Nam Island, a craft pottery village, An Bang Beach

Day 6

• Visit a local fishing village
• Experience traditional fishing techniques
• Explore coconut-palm-flanked waterways

Day 7

• Day at leisure

Day 8

• Full Day Hue City Tour
• Visit Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue Citadel, Tu Duc and Khai Dinh Royal Tombs

Day 9

• Day at leisure

Day 10

• Transfer to Ho Chi Minh City
• Saigon "Vietnamese Style" Vespa tour
• Explore local markets and landmarks on a Vespa

Day 11

• Mekong Delta Tour with Mango Cruise
• Visit Ben Tre province in the Mekong Delta
• Explore local workshops, rice noodles factory, and more
• Boat ride to Ben Tre City and transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City

Day 12

• Departure day

Adventure tour #3: The Wonders Of Vietnam

Experience Vietnam's premier destinations on this captivating 10-day Vietnam countrywide itinerary, starting from the vibrant capital of Hanoi and venturing all the way to the enchanting wonder of Halong Bay. Relish serene river cruises along the Perfume River, immerse yourself in the rich history of renowned tombs and temples, and be swept away by the exhilaration of Ho Chi Minh City.

Itinerary overview 

Embark on an exhilarating journey through Vietnam's most captivating destinations. Explore the historic sites of Hanoi, cruise the stunning Halong Bay, and discover the imperial treasures of Hue. Wander the charming streets of Hoi An, immerse yourself in the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh, and experience the vibrant culture of the Mekong Delta. This adventure is filled with unforgettable experiences at every turn. Read more.

Day 1

• Arrival at Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport
• Visit the Temple of Literature
• Fine Arts Museum (if not Monday)
• Quan Thanh Te
• Evening Water Puppet Show

Day 2

• Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum (if not Monday, Friday, or maintenance period)
• His former residence
• One-Pillar Pagoda
• Army Museum (if not Monday, replaceable depending on interest)

Day 3

• Discover Halong Bay:
• Halong Bay boat cruise
• Visit beautiful grottoes
• Enjoy seafood lunch on board

Day 4

• Hue Sightseeing
• Visit the royal tombs of King Tu Duc and King Khai Dinh
• Visit Tu Hieu pagoda

Day 5

• Dragon boat cruise on Perfume River
• Thien Mu Pagoda
• Vestiges of the royal residence at the Imperial City
• Depart for Hoi An via Hai Van Pass
• Visit Cham Museum in Danang

Day 6

• Walking Tour of Hoi An:
• Explore historic town
• Visit Hoi An market
• Tan Ky ancient house
• Japanese covered bridge
• Fukien Assembly Hall

Day 7

• Transfer to Ho Chi Minh City
• Cai Be Floating Market:
• Coach trip to Cai Be
• Wooden boat ride to Vinh Long
• Visit colourful floating market
• See locals producing rice popcorn and sweets
• Continue cruising along fruit orchards to Vinh Long

Day 8

• Cai Rang Floating Market and Mekong Delta Tour:
• Early morning boat trip to Cai Rang floating market
• Visit a fruit orchard
• Taste tropical fruits of the Mekong Delta

Day 9

• Ho Chi Minh City Cu Chi Tunnels and Sightseeing
• Visit Cu Chi tunnels
• Return to Ho Chi Minh City
• Visit Chinatown and Thien Hau temple
• Photo stop at the former Presidential Palace and Notre Dame Cathedral (if time permits)

Day 10

• Leisure time until departure
• Transfer to Tan Son Nhat airport for departure flight

Don't bother with all the details - book your trip with us today.

Looking for more options for a 10-day adventure? Choose one of our 10-day Vietnam itineraries.

Adventure tour #4: Vietnam Culinary Discovery

Explore the diverse flavours of Vietnamese cuisine as you embark on a 10-day Vietnam culinary itinerary through the country's three distinct regions: the North, Center, and South. 

Immerse yourself in the captivating sights, sounds, and tantalizing aromas of this enchanting nation, awakening all your senses to the rich tapestry of Vietnamese culinary delights.

Itinerary overview

Embark on a culinary and cultural adventure through Vietnam, from Hanoi to Hoi An, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh City. Learn the art of Vietnamese cuisine, explore ancient villages, cruise along the Perfume River, and discover the rich history and vibrant markets of these enchanting cities. This 10-day journey promises unforgettable experiences at every stop. Read more.

Day 1

• Arrival in Hanoi
• Transfer to Silk Path Hotel
• Dinner at a typical Vietnamese restaurant

Day 2

• Hanoi Cooking Class at Koto
• Explore Vietnamese cuisine secrets
• Learn to prepare various Vietnamese dishes
• City tour of Hanoi, including Fine Arts Museum, Temple of Literature, Sword Lake, and Old Quarter
• Evening Water Puppet Show

Day 3

• Drive to Halong (160km)
• Board a traditional junk for a Halong Bay cruise
• Explore Halong Bay's limestone islets and grottoes
• Lunch and dinner onboard
• Overnight on the junk

Day 4

• Continue Halong Bay cruise, visit islands and caves
• Brunch onboard
• Return to Halong city
• Transfer to Hanoi airport
• Late afternoon flight to Hue

Day 5

• Explore ancient villages around Hue
• Visit Thuy Bieu village, Tiger Arena, elephant temple, and bronze casting village
• Cruise on the Perfume River
• Visit Thien Mu Pagoda and Imperial City
• Explore Dong Ba Market
• Exclusive dinner at Tha Om Garden House or Hue Foodie Tour

Day 6

• Visit Khai Dinh Mausoleum
• Depart for Hoi An via Lang Co beach and Hai Van Pass
• Visit Cham Museum, Non Nuoc beach, and Marble Mountain

Day 7

• Cooking class at Red Bridge School in Hoi An
• Visit Hoi An's market, take a leisure cruise along the river
• Learn to prepare Vietnamese dishes
• Explore Hoi An's historic town, visit old house, Fukien Assembly Hall, and Japanese covered bridge

Day 8

• Explore China Town in Ho Chi Minh City
• Visit Binh Tay market and Thien Hau Temple
• Lunch at a "Pho" house
• City tour including Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and General Post Office
• Dinner at an authentic Vietnamese cuisine restaurant

Day 9

• Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels complex
• Explore underground tunnels used by Vietcong rebels during the American war
• Return to Ho Chi Minh City
• Visit Chinatown, Thien Hau Temple, and other landmarks (if time permits)

Day 10

• Leisure day in Ho Chi Minh City
• Transfer to Tan Son Nhat airport for departure flight

Heading to northern Vietnam? Our itineraries have everything you need for an unforgettable journey.

Adventure tour #5: Impressions Of Vietnam, Cambodia And Laos

If you have the time, exploring more of this region of the world is truly worth it. This 18-day Vietnam, Laos & Cambodia itinerary will take you through essential destinations, such as the Mekong Delta, Phnom Penh with its haunting Killing Fields, the magnificent Angkor Wat, and the culturally vibrant Luang Prabang in Laos. 

Itinerary overview 

Embark on an incredible 18-day adventure across Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. Explore historic sites, including the Cu Chi Tunnels and Angkor Wat, and immerse yourself in local culture. Witness the alms-giving ritual in Luang Prabang and cruise the Mekong River. This tour offers a diverse and enriching experience across multiple countries, perfect for those with ample time to explore these remarkable destinations. Read more.

Day 1

• Arrival at Ho Chi Minh City
• Transfer to the hotel for check-in
• Leisure time

Day 2

• Explore historical buildings: Opera House, Continental Hotel, Notre Dame Cathedral, Old Saigon Post Office, and Reunification Palace
• Visit the War Remnants Museum

Day 3

• Visit Cu Chi Tunnels
• Explore Cao Dai Temple of Caodaism
• Leisure time

Day 4 

• Take a boat ride on the Tien River
• Visit My Tho Fish Market and islands
• Horse cart ride and cultural experiences
• Drive to Can Tho

Day 5 

• Morning boat cruise on the Mekong River
• Explore the Cai Rang Floating Market
• Return to Ho Chi Minh City

Day 6

• Flight to Phnom Penh
• Check-in and leisure time

Day 7

• Explore the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum, Wat Phnom
• Visit Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields

Day 8

• Drive to Siem Reap via Kampong Thom
• Visit local villages and ancient sites
• Check-in and leisure time in Siem Reap

Day 9 

• Explore Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple, Elephant Terrace
• Visit Angkor Wat and Bakheng Temple for sunset

Day 10

• Visit Banteay Srei and Ta Prohm Temples

Day 11

• Morning long-tail boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake
• Explore Kompong Phluk village
• Fly to Luang Prabang, Laos

Day 12

• Witness the morning alms-giving ritual
• Explore the Royal Palace Museum, Wat Xieng Thong, and more
• Sunset at Mount Phousi and Phousi Night Market

Day 13

• Morning Mekong River cruise
• Visit Pak Ou Caves and local villages

Day 14 

• Visit Elephant Village and interact with elephants
• Take a traditional boat ride to Tad Sae Waterfalls

Day 15

• Explore Kuang Si Waterfalls
• Fly to Hanoi, Vietnam

Day 16

• Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, House on Stilts, One Pillar Pagoda
• Explore the Temple of Literature and Old Quarter

Day 17

• Travel to Halong Bay for a 2-day cruise
• Explore Halong Bay and optional activities

Day 18

• Optional Tai Chi class and visit Sung Sot Cave
• Return to Hanoi and fly to Hue

Looking for more ideas for your trip to Vietnam? Explore our wide range of 14-day itineraries in Vietnam.

Let us plan your Vietnam adventure tour

 Our team of Vietnam travel experts is at your service to plan extraordinary trips in Vietnam. Simply contact us when you're ready to travel, and we'll create a personalized itinerary that you can tweak until it satisfies every aspect of your booking.

Explore our pre-made Vietnam itineraries for inspiration, and keep in mind that all can be tailored to meet your specific needs.

Prefer to do it alone? Get yourself a copy of Rough Guide to Vietnam and don't forget to check our Vietnam travel tips.