Come join us in Spring, 2027 as we ROLL our way through VIETNAM!
(and YES- there will be plenty of spring rolls to enjoy along the way...YUM!)
Vietnam is a FEAST for the senses- incredible landscapes of striking beauty, delicious cuisine, a storied history and countless active adventures... Join us in March, 2027 as we head to Southeast Asia- the sights, sounds, flavors and ADVENTURE of Vietnam await!
Experience the heart of Vietnamese culture on this active and adventure-packed journey. Over nine days, we’ll explore nearly 1,000 years of history, from the bustling streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. Along the way, indulge in Hanoi’s legendary street food, cycle through rice paddies, kayak in emerald waters, hike lush rainforests and cruise through surreal limestone rock formations.
With daily activities like biking, hiking, kayaking, and walking tours, this trip is designed for adventurous travelers looking for a balance of action and culture. A highlight is our 3-day, 2-night cruise on Lan Ha Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you’ll sail among towering karst islands, hidden caves, and floating fishing villages.
TRIP DATES: March 6-14, 2027
TRIP PRICE: $TBD (per person, double-occupancy)
Single-Occupancy Supplement: $TBD
Not Included: Airfare to/from Hanoi, single occupancy rooms, tips for F4A guides, optional add-ons/excursions, personal expenses (souvenirs, alcohol, etc.).
This is an exciting and active way to dip your toe into Vietnamese culture. From the ancient streets of the Old Quarter in Hanoi to the sprawling complex of the first Capital of Vietnam in Hoa Lu- we'll see and experience a Vietnam that most people from the US don't even know exists...
But wait- there's MORE! To help maximize your time in Southeast Asia, we've put together an optional 7-day/6-night add-on, allowing you to take advantage of your time in the region and experience MORE of Vietnam's incredible culture and cuisine.
Central Vietnam Add-On (7 days/6 nights): March 14-20, 2027
On this optional add-on, we'll delve deeper into the scenery and culture of Central Vietnam. This 7-day journey through Central Vietnam packs in adventure- ancient history, breathtaking landscapes and cultural immersion await! From the imperial city of Hue to the charming streets of Hoi An, this add-on is full of scenic rides, historical sites, and must-do hands-on experiences that bring central Vietnam’s rich heritage to life.
We'll explore the grandeur of Hue and the Imperial Citadel, then hop a motorbike (or jeep!) to wind through Hai Van Pass, one of the most scenic coastal roads in the world. We'll feel the pulse of local life as we cycle through rice paddies, paddle a coconut basket boat through the rainforest and learn the art of lantern-making in Hoi An. We'll cook our own lunch at a cooking class and raise a toast while cruising down the Thu Bon River at sunset, soaking in Vietnam’s timeless beauty.
ADD-ON PRICE: $TBD (per person, double occupancy)
Single-Occupancy Supplement: $TBD
What’s Included:
- All Accommodation (Hotels in Hue (2 nights), and Hoi An (4 nights))
- All breakfasts (6) and lunches (5), 3 dinners
- 2 Fit 4 Adventure Guides and an experienced, bilingual Local Guide
- All Entrance Fees and Tips for Local Guides
- All Transportation to and from excursions and between cities
Not Included: Airfare to/from Hanoi/Danang, single occupancy rooms, tips for F4A guides, optional add-ons/excursions, personal expenses (souvenirs, alcohol, etc.).
VISA REQUIRED!!!
Vietnam requires visitors from the US to obtain a visa PRIOR to arrival in the country. You are responsible for applying for and obtaining your tourist visa before the trip starts. Your Fit 4 Adventure guides will help you navigate the process, but it will ultimately be up to you to procure your visa in a timely manner prior to your arrival in Vietnam.
DIETARY RESTRICTIONS
Vegetarian and vegan requirements are easily met in Vietnam. Due to cultural nuance and potential difficulties with the language barrier, those with severe food allergies (peanut, tree nut, etc.) may want to consider a different trip. While our F4A guides will do everything in their power to ensure dietary needs are met, we cannot guarantee the ability to effectively communicate the severeness of any specific food allergies.
FLIGHTS
Arrivals: We STRONGLY recommend arriving in Hanoi a day or two early in order to recover from the journey and explore points of interest in this incredible city. We can arrange add-on accommodation at our hotel in Hanoi as needed- just let us know!
You are responsible for booking your flight to Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport (HAN). We will be hosting our Welcome Dinner in the Old Quarter around 6p on March 6. Therefore, plan to arrive before 2p on March 6- if not before. (Note with time changes/overnight flights, you may be departing the US on March 4 to arrive by the afternoon of the 6th. Double-check departure dates/times before booking.) Once you clear customs in Hanoi, our driver will bring you to our hotel in the Old Quarter.
Departures: For those departing after the Main Trip, please plan late-afternoon/evening departures out of Hanoi (HAN) on March 14. It is a 2-hour transfer from Ninh Binh to Hanoi and you'll want to have plenty of time to get checked-in at the airport.
For those departing after the add-on, plan departures at your prefferred time from Da Nang International Airport (DAD) on March 20- private transport to the airport is included. When booking, it may be cheaper to book a multi-city ticket (inbound into Hanoi, outbound from Da Nang) OR to book 2 separate tickets (one-way into Hanoi, one-way home from Da Nang). Contact your F4A guide with any questions prior to booking your flight!
DEPOSIT
A $500 deposit (per person) is due at the time of booking. This deposit is non-refundable.
PAYMENTS
The first payment (50% of remaining balance) will be due November 1, 2026. Final payment will be due January 1, 2027. You will receive a reminder email when these payments are due. Once made, all payments are non-refundable and non-transferrable.
CANCELLATIONS
By Client: If you need to cancel before the trip, the cancellation fee is your initial deposit plus any additional payments made. Any payments made are non-refundable and non-transferable. Your reservation will automatically cancel if final payment is not received by the due date. Travel Insurance is highly recommended (see below).
By Fit 4 Adventure: In the event that we must cancel a trip for commercial reasons beyond our control, including if the minimum number of trip participants is not met, you will be able to transfer any amount paid toward any F4A trip in the next 24 months. You may also opt for a full refund.
By Force Majeure: In the event that a trip is cancelled due (but not limited) to natural disasters, pandemics, border restrictions, terrorism, or political instability, F4A will offer you a future trip credit valid for 24 months from the original trip date.
F4A is not responsible for any additional expenses you may incur as result of your booking, including (but not limited to) visas, vaccinations, clothing, equipment, testing, travel insurance, or non-refundable flights.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
The cancellation policy will be strictly adhered to. To avoid loss of payments due to unforeseen circumstances, travel insurance is highly recommended. Please consider booking through our partners Allianz Travel or World Nomads. Alternatively, travel insurance can often be purchased along with your flight.
For more information on this itinerary, please contact Kristin (meyerkristin@fit4adventure.com).
DAILY ITINERARY
This itinerary is designed to give the maximum Northern Vietnam exposure in a short 9 day, 8 night time frame. With so much to do and see, we want to pack in as much activity, culture and cuisine as possible, while also having plenty of time to sit back and enjoy the amazing natural beauty that this country has to offer.
Day 1 - Welcome to Hanoi!
Upon arrival in Hanoi*, clear customs and meet your driver for transfer to the hotel. Settle in and take time to relax or explore the city at your own pace. In the evening, we'll host our Welcome Dinner in the Old Quarter- meet your Fit 4 Adventure guides and fellow travelers while enjoying your first taste of Vietnamese cuisine! Chào mừng đến với Việt Nam!
(NOTE: We STRONGLY recommend arriving in Hanoi a day or two early, for two reasons. 1) It will give you a day or two to recover from the long overseas journey; 2) There are so many cultural, historical and interesting attractions in the city, it is impossible for us to include them all in our itinerary. We will provide a list of suggestions and recommendations for the day(s) preceding the official start date and can help organize add-on hotel accommodations if so desired- just let us know!)
Day 2 - Discover Hanoi's History, Culture, & Street Food Scene
The trip kicks off with a bit of Vietnamese history and tradition- a guided tour of Hanoi's Temple of Literature and Trấn Quốc Pagoda. In the afternoon, we'll take in a traditional water puppet show- an art form unique to Vietnam- before enjoying a cyclo ride through the city. In the evening, we'll set out on foot to enjoy some of Hanoi's delicious eats on a guided street food tour of the Old Quarter. Trust us- it is YUM!
.jpeg)
Day 3-Transfer to Cat Ba Island- Cat Ba National Park
Today, our private transfer will take us to Cat Ba Island- the largest island in the Ha Long/Lan Ha Bay area. A short ferry ride and a quick drive bring us to Cat Ba Town, where we will enjoy a group lunch before setting out into Cat Ba National Park. In the park, we'll visit impressive caves and have a short-but-steep climb up to a spectacular lookout taking in the stunning landscape. This evening, we'll relax at a hidden gem in the Cat Ba Island countryside.
Day 4- Cat Ba Island Hike
On Day 4, we'll venture out onto the trails of Cat Ba Island, exploring the forest and marveling at the green, green GREEN. Our local guide will provide information on the local flora and fauna as we stretch our legs on a group hike through the beautiful scenery. In the afternoon, we'll return to our hidden retreat for pool time, relaxation, and optional spa treatments.
Day 5 & 6 - Lan Ha Bay Cruise: Remote Villages, Limestone Cliffs & Secluded Beaches
This morning, we head to Lan Ha Bay, where we’ll board a 3-day, 2-night boutique cruise through one of the most stunning seascapes on earth! We'll sail past towering limestone karst formations, hidden lagoons and floating fishing villages. Choose your own adventure—relax on deck, swim at pristine beaches, kayak through hidden caves or indulge in a spa treatment.
On Day 6, we will visit a remote inlet on Cat Ba Island, where we can either bike through lush landscapes or take a tram ride to Viet Hai Village, a small traditional community nestled in the heart of the island. Beautiful scenery, delicious coffee and a traditional fish spa await in Viet Hai Village! In the afternoon, we'll have opportunities to kayak amongst the karst and take a dip in the clear waters of Lan Ha Bay.
Day 7 - Lan Ha Leisure & Swim in the Sea - Transfer to Ninh Binh
Enjoy one last morning of swimming or kayaking in Tra Bau, a breathtaking bay made famous as a filming location for Kong: Skull Island. After brunch, we’ll disembark in Ha Long City and take our private van south to Ninh Binh- a region also known for its dramatic karst landscapes and ancient temples. This evening, unwind with a massage, explore Tam Coc town or relax at the hotel.
Day 8 – Ninh Binh: Temples, Caves & Scenic Landscapes
On our last full day, we’ll explore the cultural and natural wonders of Ninh Binh. Our first stop is Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s first capital, where we’ll visit historic temples dedicated to ancient emperors. Then, enjoy a peaceful boat ride along the Ngo Dong River, a breathtaking river surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and hidden caves.
Next, we’ll visit Bich Dong, a famous cave temple built into the mountainside. The day concludes with a short but steep hike at Mua Cave, where you’ll be rewarded with one of the most stunning panoramic views in Vietnam. In the evening, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate our unforgettable journey.
.jpg)
Day 9 – Departure
After breakfast, those departing after the Main Trip will take a private van back to Hanoi, where you’ll transfer to the airport for your departure flight home. Cảm ơn, Thank You, and Safe Travels! (For those continuing on the Central Vietnam add-on, see below...)
For those continuing on with the Central Vietnam Add-On, the Adventure continues below...
(For more information on this trip, contact Kristin (meyerkristin@Fit4Adventure.com)
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Optional Central Vietnam Add-On (March 14-20)
Day 9 - All Aboard to Hue!
After saying tam biet (goodbye!) to Ninh Binh, we'll hop a day train to Hue (Approx. 12 hours travel time). This is your chance to relax, read a book, play a game with your travel companions and check out the passing scenery. (This train ride was listed by Lonely Planet as one of the most scenic train rides in the world!) We’ll have the opportunity to purchase lunch and/or snacks on the train. Upon our arrival in Hue, we'll be shuttled to our hotel- the tallest building in town!
Day 10 - Hue City Exploration
We’ll begin our day with a serene Dragon Boat ride along the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue’s oldest temple. Then we explore the Imperial Citadel, once home to the Nguyen Dynasty. In the afternoon, we'll tour the royal tombs of Khai Dinh and Tu Duc, each showcasing a unique blend of Vietnamese and Western architecture. We end the day with a stop at handicraft villages, where artisans make traditional conical hats and incense sticks.
Day 11 - Hai Van Scenic Mountain Pass (Hue to Da Nang)
Today’s epic adventure takes us through Vietnam’s breathtaking coastal and mountain landscapes. We will be hopping on motorbikes (local guide/drivers included, option to take a jeep) to ride through fishing villages along the Lang Co Peninsula, stopping to take in the stunning sea views. A refreshing break at Nhi Ho Waterfall offers a chance for a quick swim before ascending the Hai Van Pass, a winding mountain road known for its spectacular scenery. Feel the wind in your hair as we descend into Da Nang, where we'll ditch the motorbikes before transferring to the picturesque town of Hoi An for a relaxing evening.
Day 12 - Coffee Culture, Marble Mountains and Hoi An Exploration
Lets get caffeinated! This morning, we'll learn how the Vietnamese make their delicious coffee at a local roastery. We will learn about the history of coffee and beans used in Vietnam while making a few signature coffee drinks. After, we will use all that energy to tour the Marble Mountains, a group of 5 limestone and marble peaks in which humans have been actively quarrying and building temples for over 1000 years. The steep hike to the top leads to stunning caves and 360-degree lookouts across the city. Later in the afternoon, we will arrive back at our hotel in time for you to check out Hoi An old town, with it's 2000 year history. Hoi An is known for it's tailors- if you want to have clothing hand-made, this is the time to go place that order so the tailors have time to finish your outfit before you leave.
Day 13 - Hoi An Countryside Bicycle Adventure
Today we embark on a scenic bike ride through Vietnam’s rural heartland, crossing bamboo bridges and peaceful rice fields while passing through charming villages. Along the way, we will visit a traditional wooden farmhouse, see how rice paper is made and watch artisans at work in an old weaving village. A ferry crossing on the Thu Bon River adds to the adventure, leading to a stop at a local market, where we can sample fresh produce and regional specialties. After a day of pedaling, we will have an opportunity to explore Hoi An old town, a picturesque blend of cultures and a trading port dating back to the 15th century.
Day 14 - Hoi An: Culture, Coconut Boats & Cooking Class
We begin the day with a lantern-making workshop, where we will create souvenirs to take home using traditional Vietnamese methods. Next, take a basket boat ride through the coconut forest of Cam Thanh. A hands-on cooking class follows, where you’ll prepare and enjoy a seven-course Vietnamese meal. In the afternoon, we'll take a sunset boat cruise along the Thu Bon River, offering stunning views of the old town as the day winds down. In the evening, we'll gather for our celebratory Finale Dinner, raising a toast to our incredible adventure and the good times in Vietnam! Một, hai, ba, dzô!
Day 15 - Departures
Enjoy a relaxed morning before your private transfer to Da Nang International Airport for your departure flight. Take in a last glimpse of Vietnam’s stunning landscapes and rich culture as you bid farewell to this unforgettable journey. Cảm ơn, Thank You, and Safe Travels!
For more information on this itinerary, contact Kristin (meyerkristin@fit4adventure.com)
Learn More & Keep Exploring
Want to get a feel for Vietnam before you commit? Read our guide first:
- Welcome to Vietnam — Vietnam Lead Guide Kristin Meyer shares what it's actually like to travel there. The traffic, the temples, the egg coffee. All of it.
Love adventurous travel? Here are a few other trips you might be eyeing:
- Patagonia 2027 — Glaciers, condors, and the most dramatic scenery on earth.
- Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2026 — Another bucket-list trek in a culturally rich destination.
- Pacific Northwest Adventure — Rainforests, volcanoes, and Seattle. Different vibe, equally epic.
.avif){kind=small}
