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North Vietnam Mindfulness & Wellness Retreat – 12 Days
from $2001/pax
Departure:Flexible Departure Dates
Category:Adventure · Trekking & Hiking
Theme:Nature & Landscapes
Suitable:Families
Type:Multi-Day Tour, Private Tour
Why travelers love this trip?
- Discover hidden tropical forests and ancient national parks while trekking scenic trails
- Explore world-class cave systems by boat and experience thrilling zipline adventures
- Day 1: Hanoi - Welcome to Vietnam
- Take in landscapes from serene boat rides along winding rivers to panoramic mountain summits
BOOK WITH CLARITY
Local planning, clear value, fewer surprises
EcoTravel combines local trip planning with clear, itemized booking information. Before payment, we re-check the operating itinerary, current price, hotel level, included transport, meals and any optional costs for your travel date. If a detail is flexible or subject to availability, we explain it before you confirm so you can compare quality and total value, not just the headline price.
Clear price and inclusions
We show what is included, what is optional and any date-specific surcharge we can identify, so you can compare total value rather than only a headline price.
Local support when plans matter
Use one local contact for room requests, dietary needs, transfer questions and practical changes that can affect a multi-stop Vietnam trip.
Trip Itinerary
WHY THIS JOURNEY STANDS OUT
A Vietnam journey that deliberately changes pace instead of repeating the same kind of sightseeing every day
Over 12 days, the journey moves from Hanoi through Ninh Binh, Cuc Phuong National Park, Phong Nha Cave, Hoi An, Cham Island and Ho Chi Minh City before ending in Monkey Island Can Gio. What keeps the route interesting is how the experience changes from one chapter to the next; the signature moments below show where that contrast becomes part of the journey.
What makes this itinerary worth comparing is the balance between experiences, travel time and overnight stops. The day-by-day plan below shows where the pace changes, what is included, where you sleep and how each destination connects to the next. It also makes the main transfer sectors easy to spot, so you can judge whether the journey feels comfortable for the way you like to travel.
A quieter waterway chapter in Ninh Binh
The boat or sampan section gives the route a quieter landscape chapter between the busier city stops.
Heritage and local life in Hoi An
Walk through the heritage and local-life experiences included in Hoi An, giving the journey a more intimate contrast to the larger cities.
Step into Vietnam’s imperial story
Explore Hue through the imperial and heritage stops included in the route, adding a deeper historical chapter to the journey.
Life along the Mekong waterways
Move from city streets to river and canal experiences that show a different rhythm of southern Vietnam.
Before you decide: If you are deciding whether this tour is the right use of your time and budget, start with the route and signature moments below. They show the real shape of the trip before you get into the detail of each day.
JOURNEY OVERVIEW
See the full route before you travel
Follow the destination sequence, day numbers and main transfers at a glance before reading the full itinerary below.
Route:HanoiNinh BinhPhong NhaHoi AnHo Chi Minh City
- Day 1HanoiHanoi - Welcome to Vietnam
- Day 2HanoiHanoi - Ba Vi National Park
- Day 3Ninh BinhNinh Binh - Tam Coc & Thung Nham Bird Garden
- Day 4Ninh Binh → Dong HoiCuc Phuong National Park - Wildlife Conservation
- Day 5Phong Nha → Dong HoiDiscover Phong Nha - Natural Wonders
- Day 6Phong Nha → HuePhong Nha - Bach Ma National Park (Hue)
- Day 7Hue → Hoi AnHoi An - Son Tra Nature Reserve
- Day 8Hoi AnHoi An - Venture to Cu Lao Cham Islands
- Day 9Da Nang → Ho Chi Minh CityFlight Ho Chi Minh City - Can Gio Monkey Island
- Day 10Explore Cat Tien National Park - Wildlife Encounters
- Day 11Ho Chi Minh CityJungle Trekking & Nature Relaxation
- Day 12Ho Chi Minh CityEnd of Journey - Ho Chi Minh City Departure
Numbered stops follow the tour itinerary. Transport icons appear only where the day-by-day program identifies that travel mode.
1Day 1: Hanoi - Welcome to Vietnam
Upon arriving in Hanoi, check in to your hotel, your heart and mind brimming with the promise of further adventures in this captivating city.
Your first adventure unfolds with a explore to the enchanting Hanoi Botanical Garden. This verdant haven welcomes you with its abundant flora, where rare plant species and vibrant wildlife paint a picture of nature’s splendor. As you stroll along its winding paths, the gentle rustle of leaves and melodic bird calls create an atmosphere of serene discovery.
Start point.
Hanoi.
Meals: NA
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
2Day 2: Hanoi - Ba Vi National Park
Leaving Hanoi, you embark on a picturesque drive through Vietnam's verdant countryside, where rolling hills and quaint rural scenes set the stage for the day ahead. Your destination is the renowned Ba Vi National Park, a lush retreat celebrated for its natural splendor.
Upon arrival, you dive into an invigorating forest trek, following winding trails that gradually lead you upward to the famed Tan Vien Summit. Along the way, every step reveals a mosaic of thriving flora and diverse fauna, with the surrounding landscape unfolding into a breathtaking panorama that speaks to the park's ecological richness and beauty.
Your adventure takes a delightful turn as you explore a local farm. Here, You'll have the unique opportunity to engage with ostriches and deer. Feeding these gentle creatures offers a heartwarming, close-up encounter with nature, making the experience both memorable and intimate.
As the day winds down, you begin the leisurely drive back to Hanoi. The return journey provides ample time for reflection on the day's adventures, from the serene forest paths and stunning summit views to the charming interactions at the farm.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
3Day 3: Ninh Binh - Tam Coc & Thung Nham Bird Garden
Plan your trip early to Ninh Binh, where a traditional boat trip to Tam Coc - Bich Dong awaits. Drift along the tranquil river, surrounded by majestic limestone mountains and endless rice fields that paint a picture of Vietnam's natural beauty.
After this serene journey, venture into Thung Nham Bird Garden, a haven for over 40 rare bird species. Wander through the lush reserve, watching flocks gracefully return to their nests, filling the sky with movement and life. Savor a flavorful local lunch before settling into your hotel.
As the sun begins to set, soak in the peaceful countryside, where golden hues cast a magical glow over the landscape. This day is a perfect harmony of exploration and tranquility, offering a deep connection to nature in one of Vietnam’s most picturesque destinations.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Ninh Binh
4Day 4: Cuc Phuong National Park - Wildlife Conservation
Kick off your day immersed in the timeless beauty of Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam's oldest tropical forest and sanctuary renowned for its rich biodiversity and historical significance. As you explore the ancient, winding trails, You'll be captivated by the dense canopy overhead, the rustle of leaves, and the chorus of wildlife that calls this pristine environment home.
Every step along the trail reveals layers of ecological history - from centuries-old trees to rare plant species and elusive animal inhabitants - all carefully preserved within this natural treasure. Knowledgeable guides enhance your experience by sharing fascinating insights into the park conservation efforts and the stories of the species that have thrived here over the ages.
After completing your exploration of Cuc Phuong, You'll return to Ninh Binh and board an overnight train from Ninh Binh to Dong Hoi, continuing your journey to the central region of Vietnam.
NOTE: The dry season (December - May) is the ideal time to explore Cuc Phuong National Park. During these months, the weather is cool and pleasant, with clear skies and dry trails, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor adventures.
April and May are known as butterfly season, when thousands of colorful butterflies fill the forest, creating a breathtaking and magical scene - ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
The dry season is also perfect for activities like trekking, camping, and exploring the park's famous caves.
Travelers are advised to avoid the rainy season from June to November when heavy rainfall makes the trails slippery, the air more humid, and there are many mosquitoes, which can make the journey more challenging and less enjoyable.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Overnight train to Dong Hoi
5Day 5: Discover Phong Nha - Natural Wonders
In the early morning, You'll arrive in Dong Hoi. Following breakfast, a vehicle will pick you up and transfer you to Phong Nha, where You'll continue your exploration of the remarkable natural landscapes of Central Vietnam.
Your adventure begins with boarding a boat that gently carries you to Phong Nha Cave. As you walk through the cave’s dark, mysterious waters, your guide unveils the secrets of this ancient natural wonder.
You’re captivated by the impressive limestone formations - stalactites hanging delicately from the ceiling and stalagmites rising from the cave floor - each sculpted by nature over countless millennia. The soft lighting reveals intricate patterns and textures on the cave walls, while the guide explains the geological processes that created these breathtaking features.
After the immersive cave tour, prepare to soar across the forest canopy as you participate in a thrilling zipline adventure. Suspended high above the ground, you enjoy a unique perspective of the surrounding lush landscape, where the vibrant greenery and dappled sunlight create a stunning natural mosaic. This exhilarating experience not only provides an exciting rush but also offers a panoramic view of Phong Nha’s rich ecosystem.
Following the zipline, your adventure continues with a relaxing mud bath at Hang Toi. Here, You'll have time to unwind and rejuvenate. The natural mud, gathered from the surrounding landscape, offers a therapeutic experience that soothes tired muscles and leaves you feeling refreshed.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Dong Hoi
6Day 6: Phong Nha - Bach Ma National Park (Hue)
Travel by road for a 4-hour drive to Bach Ma National Park, located near Hue. Upon arrival, You'll embark on a gentle hike along the park’s well-marked trails, where every step reveals a rich tapestry of local flora and fauna.
During your hike, be sure to stop at the impressive Do Quyen Waterfall – a striking natural sight whose cascading waters create a tranquil and tranquil atmosphere that perfectly captures the essence of the park.
As the light begins to fade, prepare for a fascinating nocturnal wildlife tour led by an experienced guide, which offers a true glimpse into the biodiversity of the park, as you watch native species come alive under the cover of darkness.
NOTE: In June, July, and August, there are often thunderstorms in the afternoon, and water from upstream can rush down suddenly, which is dangerous.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Hue
7Day 7: Hoi An - Son Tra Nature Reserve
Morning
Moving from Hue to Hoi An, You'll explore the Son Tra Nature Reserve. On the Son Tra peninsula, take a walk along the coastal trails to observe the local environment firsthand.
This area is home to the red-shanked douc, a species of Old World monkey well known for its distinctively bright and varied coloration. The red-shanked douc is regarded as one of the most visually remarkable primates, and its presence here highlights the region’s rich biodiversity.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, explore Hoi An Ancient Town, a historic area known for its well-preserved architecture and narrow streets. Explore landmarks such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Fujian Assembly Hall, and handicraft stores along the way.
At the end of the day, around dusk, take part in a local lantern release event. This activity is a regional custom that symbolizes hope and renewal. The day is designed to provide a clear insight into both the natural and cultural aspects of the area.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An
8Day 8: Hoi An - Venture to Cu Lao Cham Islands
Begin your day with an early morning boat ride from Hoi An to the unspoiled Cham Islands, where natural beauty awaits. As you glide over calm waters, the soft morning light casts a magical glow across the horizon, heralding a day filled with adventure and discovery.
Upon arrival, you have the choice to immerse yourself in an exhilarating snorkeling session, complete with essential safety gear such as a life vest, snorkel, and goggles, which will allow you to explore the vibrant coral reefs and observe a myriad of marine species up close.
Alternatively, you can opt for a glass-bottom boat tour that provides a comfortable and insightful view of the underwater world, capturing the intricate beauty of the marine ecosystem without getting wet.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An
9Day 9: Flight Ho Chi Minh City - Can Gio Monkey Island
Your day unfolds with an early flight from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City, followed by a explore to the extraordinary Can Gio Biosphere Reserve - a lush haven just 45 km from the urban center.
This UNESCO-designated coastal sanctuary is a dynamic ecosystem where sprawling mangrove forests, salt marshes, and tidal flats work in harmony to support an diversity of life. These mangroves not only protect the coastline from erosion but also serve as vital breeding grounds for numerous marine species, emphasizing the region's ecological significance.
At the heart of Can Gio lies Monkey Island, where over 2,000 wild monkeys roam freely in their natural habitat. Because these primates are nurtured by and accustomed to living in a natural environment, they have grown notably bold.
Enhance your explore with a boat tour through the intricate mangrove waterways, where local experts will share fascinating insights into the coastal ecosystem and its unique biodiversity.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City
10Day 10: Explore Cat Tien National Park - Wildlife Encounters
In the morning, depart for Cat Tien National Park, located about 3.5 hours by car from your starting point. This park is one of Vietnam's most important protected areas, known for its rich biodiversity and tropical forest landscapes.
Upon arrival, begin your explore with a tour of the Bear and Rhino Rescue Center, where you'll learn about ongoing conservation efforts to protect endangered species such as the black bear and the rhinoceros, once native to the area. The center offers a rare opportunity to see these animals up close and understand the challenges of wildlife rehabilitation in Vietnam.
As night falls, embark on a Safari Night experience. This guided tour through the forest gives you a chance to observe nocturnal wildlife in their natural habitat, such as deer, civets, porcupines, and more. It’s a thrilling way to witness the forest come alive after dark.
After the safari, settle in for the night at an eco-lodge nestled within the jungle, where you can fall asleep to the sounds of nature, fully immersed in the serene environment of Cat Tien National Park.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Cat Tien National Park
11Day 11: Jungle Trekking & Nature Relaxation
An invigorating jungle trek that unveils the intricate layers of the local ecosystem. As you meander along shaded forest trails with your knowledgeable guide, You'll discover a rich tapestry of indigenous flora - towering trees, vibrant undergrowth, and delicate wildflowers - as well as diverse fauna, from colorful birds to elusive mammals that call this forest home.
Later, cool off with a refreshing swim in the crystalline waters of Bau Sau Stream, a secluded haven celebrated for its unspoiled beauty and its role in nurturing a thriving aquatic ecosystem. The stream surroundings are alive with the sounds of nature and a mosaic of plant life, making it a perfect spot to appreciate the harmonious balance of the forest environment.
After that, You'll journey back to Ho Chi Minh City for a comfortable overnight stay, marking a serene conclusion to a day immersed in nature.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City
12Day 12: End of Journey - Ho Chi Minh City Departure
On your last day, pause for a moment to reminisce about the extraordinary journey you have experienced across Vietnam's lush terrains and vibrant cultural heritage. Your trip wraps up with heartfelt goodbyes, leaving you enriched by Vietnam's timeless allure and eager for future explorations.
End point.
Ho Chi Minh City.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: NA
Important Notes:
- Program and schedule are subject to change without prior notice.
Inclusions
What's included
- Accommodation in Twin/ Double sharing
- All transport within Vietnam (including airport pick up & see off)
- All in-tour stationed local English speaking guide.
- Entrance fees for Vietnam attractions, as per itinerary
- Meals as indicated in the program
What's not included
- International airfare
- Early check-in and late check-out
- Peak season surcharges and compulsory gala dinners (if applicable)
- Visa (passport valid for at least 6 months with a minimum of 3 blank visa pages)
- Personal expenses (tips, laundry, gratuities, etc.)
- Meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
Tour Options & Prices
| Tour options | Prices | Total price (2 Adults) | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Superior 3* Hotels18 Aug 2026 - 20 Dec 2027 | $2001/pax | $4002 | |
| First Class 4* Hotels18 Aug 2026 - 20 Dec 2027 | $2171/pax | $4342 | |
| Deluxe 5* Hotels18 Aug 2026 - 20 Dec 2027 | $2561/pax | $5122 |
Prices are shown per person. Final availability and booking details are confirmed with EcoTravel on WhatsApp.
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PLANNING QUESTIONS
Questions & Answers
Built from this tour’s confirmed route, transport, stays, meals and activity level so the answers stay specific to this itinerary.
Is 12 Days too rushed for this Vietnam route?
12 Days gives this itinerary enough room to connect several regions while still showing where the longer transfer days sit. The confirmed sequence is Hanoi → Ninh Binh → Phong Nha → Hoi An → Ho Chi Minh City.
How much travelling is involved between destinations?
This is a multi-stop itinerary rather than a single-base holiday. The route overview shows the confirmed sequence Hanoi → Ninh Binh → Phong Nha → Hoi An → Ho Chi Minh City. Where the itinerary identifies a flight, road transfer, train or boat, that transport mode is shown on the journey map so you can understand the travel flow before booking.
Are the domestic flights included in the tour price?
The itinerary uses one or more flight sectors, but the inclusion data saved for this tour does not clearly confirm every flight as included. Treat the itinerary and the Inclusions section together and ask EcoTravel to confirm the exact sectors before payment.
What accommodation is used during the trip?
The accommodation summary for this itinerary is: Hotel (10 nights), Overnight train to Dong Hoi (1 night). If room category, bedding, private bathroom or hotel level matters to you, send that requirement before booking so the confirmed option can be checked rather than assumed.
How physically demanding is this tour?
This itinerary includes active elements such as walking, trekking, cycling, kayaking or similar activities. The difficulty is not judged only by the tour length; review the specific activity day and transfer time. Share mobility, balance or fitness concerns before booking so the demanding sections can be checked with you.
Which meals are included, and can dietary requirements be handled?
The current meal summary is: 11 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 1 Dinner. Dietary requests are not assumed to be available everywhere, so mention vegetarian, vegan, allergy or other requirements before booking and EcoTravel can confirm what the operators on this exact route can accommodate.
Are optional activities or extra costs mixed into the main itinerary?
No. Optional activities and extra costs are kept separate from the core included program. Check the Exclusions and Important Notes sections for anything that may need separate payment.
Can this itinerary be adjusted for a private trip or specific travel needs?
Do not assume every scheduled element can be changed without affecting the route or price. Send your dates, group size and the exact change you need; EcoTravel can check what is customizable while keeping the published itinerary clear and easy to compare.
LOCAL TRAVEL NOTES
What to know before travelling in Vietnam
Practical advice from a local operator for packing, weather, money, documents and the small details that can make a multi-stop trip much easier.
What to pack for this route
Bring comfortable walking shoes, light breathable clothing, sun protection, a compact rain layer, personal medication and a small day bag and a warm layer for cooler highland mornings and evenings.
Weather: plan by region, not one forecast
Northern Vietnam can be cool or misty from December to March; highland areas such as Sapa are noticeably cooler than Hanoi. Central Vietnam has a different rain pattern, with Hue often wetter from September to February. Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong stay warm year-round, with more frequent afternoon rain from May to November. A light rain layer is useful even in the drier months.
Money, exchange and fair payment
Vietnam’s currency is the đồng (VND). Keep some cash for markets, street food and smaller local purchases; cards are practical for many larger expenses. Exchange rates move daily, so use the exact VND amount shown by your bank, card terminal or EcoTravel payment confirmation rather than an old screenshot. Before approving a card payment, check the number of zeros and the final VND total. A useful local check: the 20,000 VND and 500,000 VND notes are both blue-toned, so look at the printed value before handing one over.
Passport and entry documents
Entry and visa rules depend on nationality and can change. Check the requirements that apply to your passport before departure, and make sure the name, passport number, validity dates and planned entry point on your documents match your actual trip. If you are unsure, send EcoTravel your nationality and travel dates before booking so we can flag what you need to verify.
Phone, internet and cash away from cities
A local SIM or eSIM is useful for maps and messaging. In remote villages, mountain areas and small river stops, signal and card acceptance can be weaker, so keep some VND cash and save key hotel/guide details offline.
Health, comfort and local etiquette
Carry your regular medication, use bottled or properly filtered drinking water, and consider travel insurance for active itineraries. Dress respectfully at temples and religious sites, and tell EcoTravel in advance about allergies, mobility concerns or motion sickness.
Luggage for transfers and overnight sectors
Domestic flights can have fare-specific baggage limits; overnight trains are easier with a compact bag. Keep passport, medication, valuables and one change of clothes in your day bag.
Before you confirm
Review price & inclusions ↑For a multi-stop Vietnam itinerary, send your exact travel dates, group size and preferred hotel level. If international or domestic flights are part of your wider trip, mention them so connection timing can be checked against Day 1 and the final day.
