Vietnam Family Safari

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Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi

On arrival in Hanoi you are met and transferred to your hotel. You meet your tour leader here who will organise a pre-trip briefing, where you meet the other members of your group, before heading out for an optional group dinner. Until your meeting we encourage you to get out and discover the delights that Vietnam has to offer. Make sure that you take a hotel business card so that you will be able to find your way back to the hotel. Please note that your tour leader will collect your travel insurance details at the meeting, so please bring them with you. The meeting is generally followed by an optional group meal out at one of Hanoi's fantastic eating spots.

Day 2: Hanoi

Meals included: 1 breakfast, 1 lunch

Hanoi is one of Asia's most enchanting cities. This northern capital is a quiet, contradiction of its southern counterpart. The many lakes, parks and cafes provide enjoyable escapes. We take a guided half-day tour of Hanoi, visiting the major sights, including the Temple of Literature, One Pillar Pagoda, and paying homage to Vietnam's most famous revolutionary, Ho Chi Minh. We also include lunch at the KOTO café – an amazing project aimed at providing vocational training and experience in the hospitality industry for underprivileged young people. All the staff you meet at this café have come from poor backgrounds. The afternoon is free but as you are heading in a region inhabited by hill tribe people, we highly recommend that you catch a taxi out to visit the excellent Museum of Ethnology, situated on the outskirts of town. This museum is very child friendly with an outdoor section and many “hands on” exhibits. We then travel on an eight-hour overnight sleeper-class train journey up towards the Chinese border in the remote north of Vietnam. The beds on board come with a pillow and sheets, although some people may wish to bring their own sleeping sheet (purely optional and not a necessity). Also, breakfast tomorrow will not be available on board, so it is recommended that you purchase some snacks before boarding in Hanoi.

Day 3-5: Sapa

Meals included: 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

We’ll catch a glimpse of China over the other side of the river this morning as we disembark from the overnight train and begin our drive into the mountains and on to the picturesque minority hill tribe town of Sapa. Set amidst some magnificent mountain scenery and in the shadow of Vietnam’s tallest peak, the 3,143-metre-high Mt. Fansipan, the former French colonial hill station town of Sapa is home to some of Vietnam’s most colourful minority hill tribes. Like Dalat in the south, the French developed Sapa in an effort to replicate parts of the Alps and the Pyrenees. A number of their villas remain but many were lost in 1979 when the Vietnamese army evicted the invading Chinese. We’ll spend the afternoon driving by jeeps to the local Red Dzao village of Ta Phin. Here you will get a chance to witness the colourful costumes and culture of the local minority people. There may be a chance to visit a local school or to share a cup of tea with one of the friendly local families. The next morning we commence on a scenic one day trek (12 kms) up the Muong Hoa River Valley with its lush vegetation and rice terraces. There are no hotels up here so we spend the night at a minority village in the cosy longhouse of one of the village’s families. The next morning, after a hearty hill tribe breakfast, we trek back into Sapa. There is some free time to explore the quaint shops and curious characters in Sapa town before we make our way back to Lao Cai in the evening, where we once again board the overnight train, for the return trip to Hanoi.

Day 6: Hanoi

We have a final day in Hanoi to do our own thing. There is time to explore some of the many temples, museums and shops. Perhaps after the overnight train, you may like to just relax in a cafe or take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake to see how a great deal of the life of this city revolves around this pretty body of water. Visit Ngoc Son Temple and learn about the legend of the giant golden tortoise, which had once inhabited the lake. In the evening there is an option to enjoy a performance of the unique Water Puppets. Hanoi has many interesting restaurants, some of them in old French colonial houses or tucked away in the old part of town, with western and Vietnamese options available.

Day 7: Halong Bay

Meals included: 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

Depart Hanoi for the three-and-a-half-hour drive to the bayside resort town of Bai Chay. Upon arrival, we board our boat, put our bags in our cabins and begin a memorable cruise amongst the remarkable limestone formations of Halong Bay. A lunch of local seafood is served on board and there are opportunities for swimming and visiting one of Halong Bay’s many limestone grottoes. Weather permitting we can watch the sunset over Halong Bay whilst our crew prepares tonight’s dinner. Don’t forget a hat, sun block and swimwear. Northern Vietnam can be quite cold during the winter months (December – February) and at this time you will also need to bring some warm clothing. It is also advisable to carry a sturdy pair of shoes for visiting the grottoes. Bedding and a small towel are provided on the boat. All boats used by us have twin-share cabins with en suite facilities and air-conditioning. We also have the chance to get active and do some kayaking on Halong Bay.

Day 8-10: Hoi An

Meals included: 3 breakfasts

In the morning you can wake early for a kayaking trip on the bay, if the weather is kind, before sailing back to the port. At Bai Chay, we disembark and drive back to Hanoi airport where we will board our afternoon flight to Danang. From there, we transfer by road an hour into Hoi An and settle in for our three-night stay in this historical ‘oasis’. Hoi An was originally a Cham port town, but has been influenced down the centuries by a myriad of traders from various cultures. There is a distinctly Chinese appearance with pagodas and assembly halls scattered along the small streets. Hoi An was once a bustling port in centuries gone by, before the river silted up. Today it is a delightful backwater town with an air of liveliness about it. The tranquillity and charm of Hoi An, coupled with its low tiled houses, makes it one of the most delightful places to visit in Vietnam. It is a constant favourite of our travellers and staff. The following morning a walking tour takes us to see a historic house (formerly home to a prominent trader), the Japanese Covered Bridge, a Chinese assembly hall and a museum. From there on in you will have free time to enjoy this idyllic location. Your tour leader will be on hand should your require assistance in booking any optional tours such as a bike ride to the nearby beach or a boat trip on the Thu Bon river.

Day 11: Lak Lake

Meals included: 1 breakfast, 1 dinner

Leaving Hoi An, we continue north for further sightseeing. China Beach, enjoyed as an 'R & R' spot during the Vietnam War, lies against a backdrop of the sensational Marble Mountains. The five peaks, which are actually limestone with marble outcrops, are also seen to epitomise the five elements: fire, water, earth, wood and metal. The history of the mountains is a rich one. They were once used by the Chams for religious purposes, but in more recent times became a haven for the Viet Cong, with its clear view of the Danang air base - at one time the busiest airport in the world. Good footwear is essential, as the path between the rocks are sometime slippery. The walk takes about an hour and involves climbing approximately 200 steps. This afternoon, we board the flight from Danang to Buon Ma Thuot, the coffee capital of Vietnam, before transferring to Lak Lake late afternoon. On arrival we enjoy an evening boat ride in a dugout canoe on the picturesque lake. We stay overnight with the local M’nong people in their village longhouse where they will prepare a meal for us and then perform a traditional musical and dancing show. The M’nong are very poor and their lifestyle is quite simple and basic, however, this journey is in keeping with the adventurous nature of our trips and allows you to experience a taste of the 'real’ Vietnam. Please take with you a towel as there are none available at the longhouse. Bedding and a mosquito net are provided, however, you may wish to bring their own sleeping sheet.

Day 12: Dalat

Meals included: 1 breakfast

This morning we start the day with an early morning elephant ride into the jungle surrounding the lake. There will be 2 passnegers on each elephant and a mahout to guide you. Mid morning, we start our southbound journey with the first stop being Dalat, one of Vietnam's most charming towns. The three to four hour drive offers fantastic views as we wind through the highlands. The influence of the French is prevalent as Dalat was founded as a hill station to enable the colonials to escape the heat and chaos of Saigon. The city is set around a lake and surrounded by forests, waterfalls and rolling countryside. As the altitude is about 1,500m above sea level you will find the climate refreshingly cool.

Day 13: Dalat

Meals included: 1 breakfast

We have a free day to enjoy the sights in and around Dalat. A pleasant way to get around is by bicycle and tandem bicycles are the latest trend. This is also a great place for sitting in cafes, relaxing and soaking up the atmosphere or for the more active, there are adventure activities such as abseiling and mountain bike riding that can be booked locally. Close to Dalat are local Lat and Chill tribal villages which we sometimes have the option to visit (this depends on the government restrictions at the time). However, we must purchase special permits, which our tour leader can help, us to obtain.

Day 14-15: Cu Chi Tunnels - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City)

Meals included: 2 breakfasts

This morning we board our private bus for the day-long drive to Saigon. Our journey will take us past tea and coffee plantations to Bao Loc, before descending the jungle-clad pass and heading into Saigon, the biggest city in Vietnam with a population of approximately 8 million people and 4 million motorbikes. The following morning you may wish to take a spare shirt with you because we’re literally going to ‘get down and get dirty’. Our excursion to the north of Saigon would have been considered risky business indeed 30 odd years ago but today the peaceful farming communities around the former Viet Cong stronghold of Cu Chi Tunnels belie the horrors of the Vietnam War. Begun by the Viet Minh and later expanded by the Viet Cong, Cu Chi’s tunnels were constructed to conduct covert operations and then quickly hide from the enemy. There are reputed to be around 200 kilometres of underground tunnels within the area and in some places they even managed to penetrate the perimeters of nearby US military bases. We’ll actually be given the opportunity of crawling through a section of the tunnels while we’re here, and to learn how the brave men and women of Cu Chi built underground hospitals, kitchens and meeting rooms during their struggle for a unified Vietnam. Early afternoon, we return to Saigon where you are free to spend your remaining time exploring some of the city’s attractions, such as the Reunification Palace, Dam Sen water park or Ben Thanh Market. However, to make the most of your time, you might like to consider hiring a ‘cyclo’ (bicycle rickshaw) for the afternoon. The going rate is approximately 50,000 VND per hour but make sure you negotiate a price before setting out. Tonight is your chance to farewell your tour leader and celebrate the end of a terrific family adventure.

Day 16: Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City)

Meals included: 1 breakfast

The tour ends after breakfast. A transfer to the airport is not included; however, the hotel staff will be on hand to advise you as to the options available.

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Your Trip

What's Included

Local tour leader, local guides, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees.

Summary of accommodation, transport & meals

Accommodation

• 10 nights Comfortable hotel
• 2 nights Overnight train
• 2 nights Longhouse
• 1 night Boat

Meals

• 13 breakfasts
• 3 lunches
• 3 dinners

Not Included

International and domestic departure taxes, visas, insurance, other meals, any optional tours and activities during free time, tips and items of a personal nature.

Responsible Travel

Koto

KOTO (Know One, Teach One), is a training centre and restaurant set up to help disadvantaged kids in Hanoi to get off the streets and into a stable living and working environment. Each year an integral part of the training is a field trip in Vietnam.

Every July/August, students participate in an annual field trip.

"The aim is not only to build teamwork but also to ensure the young people at KOTO get the chance to see more of their own incredible country. We want to teach a responsible attitude to the environment and give the trainees an opportunity to learn and grow through the experience. We also want to reward their hard work," explains founder, Jimmy Pham.

Peregrine continues to support KOTO and is currently fundraising through the Peregrine Community Trust to sponsor part of, or the complete, field trip each year, at a cost of between US$5000 and US$7000. In addition, KOTO greets every Peregrine group that comes to Hanoi with their fantastic menu and friendly service.

KOTO continues to grow and develop as many more street kids and disadvantaged youths pass through its doors and go on to successful jobs in the hospitality and tourism industries.

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Important Information

Mekong Delta Extension
Why not add a visit to the beautiful Mekong Delta to the end of your Vietnam holiday? Experience the lively markets and delightful scenery of the delta on this two-night tour extension. After your main trip finishes in Saigon on Monday morning, you have another free day to explore the many sights the city. On Tuesday morning you head to our villa homestay located on an island in the middle of the delta waterways. Enjoy boat rides through the narrow channels, observing local life and visiting a floating market. Return to Saigon on Wednesday evening. This tour extension can be booked in conjunction with your main Vietnam tour. Includes 2 additional breakfasts and 1 additional dinner. Please contact us for further details.

Local Tour Leaders
By employing and training local guides to lead our group holidays, there is a two-fold benefit. Firstly, we provide employment opportunities for the local community. Just as importantly is the benefit to you, the traveller. Your tour leader’s friendship, humour, passion and intimate knowledge of the region will be key factors in making your holiday a success.

Tipping
Tipping has become an accepted part of tourism in South East Asia. Your tour leader will be able to advise you in this area; however, as a guideline we would recommend tipping 10% of the total bill in restaurants and a small tip to hotel bellboys for carrying your bags.

At you pre-tour briefing your tour leader will discuss with you the idea of running a tipping kitty, whereby everybody contributes an equal amount and then the tour leader pays the tips and keeps a record of all monies spent (except restaurant tips). The record can be checked at any time and any money remaining at the end of the tour is returned to group members. This is often the easiest way to avoid the hassles of needing small change and knowing what is an appropriate amount to tip.

It is customary to tip your tour leader, at the end of the trip, if you are happy with the service. A minimum tip of US$2 per day, from each member of the group, is the usual amount expected.

Infrastructure and Tet Holiday Period
Please note that Vietnam is a developing country whose infrastructure may differ from what you expect in your homeland. Expect poor road conditions and be prepared for some inconveniences due to such things as restaurants or tourist sites being closed and our regular transport services not always being available, especially so during the Tet holiday period (Vietnamese New Year).

During Tet (Vietnamese New Year), most businesses will be closed as Vietnamese people usually spend this period returning to their homes and celebrating with their families. This will involve a major burden on all forms of transport, and despite booking in advance, tickets for planes and trains especially are extremely difficult to obtain. Even if bookings are obtained, transport services during this period will be overcrowded and heavy delays are to be expected, so you will need to make sure that you pack your sense of humour. In order to facilitate your travels during the Tet period, we may need to substitute your train/plane journey with a private bus trip, if required.

About this Information

The information provided here is given in good faith and has been compiled with all reasonable care. However, things change and some of the information may become out of date. Please keep this in mind when you read it and check with us if you want to be sure about something. The document was correct at time of printing, but you can check online for the most up to date version.  If you have any queries, please contact your travel agent or our staff in Australia. We are here to help you!

Last Updated

7 May 2012

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