4 days Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta
 

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh sightseeing

This morning, we begin our exploration in Chinatown, where we'll wander through the backstreets near Cho Lon. As one of Ho Chi Minh City's busiest commercial districts, these atmospheric streets are home to some of the city’s most intriguing sites. Here we visit the Ong Pagoda, also known as Chua Ong Bon or Quan De Temple. Built by Chinese immigrants, Ong Pagoda is dedicated to Quan Cong, a revered Chinese general from the Three Kingdoms period known for his loyalty, integrity, and righteousness.

After visiting Ong Pagoda, we will proceed to Ben Thanh Market, regarded as the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Ben Thanh Market is a bustling hub where vendors sell a wide range of goods, from fresh herbs to raw fish. Following our market visit, we will enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch.

Afterward, we will embark on a comprehensive tour of Ho Chi Minh City’s major landmarks, including the historic Reunification Palace, the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, the charming General Post Office, and the majestic Opera House. Our day concludes with a return to the hotel this evening. (Breakfast and lunch are included)

Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City - Cao Dai - Cu Chi Tunnels
 

Departing Ho Chi Minh City from your hotel between 7:45 am to 8:00 am, we drive to Cao Dai Temples in Tay Ninh. Cao Dai Temples often feature ornate and colorful architectural designs. The exteriors are adorned with intricate details, including multi-colored dragons, Buddhist symbols, and the all-seeing holy eye, which is the symbol of the Cao Dai sect.

The temples are impressive. They typically house statues of revered figures from various religions, such as Jesus Christ, Buddha, Confucius, and Laozi, as well as symbols representing the sect's unique blend of beliefs. In Cao Dai you may have the opportunity to observe religious ceremonies and rituals, including colorful processions, prayers, and meditative practices.

After Cao Dai Temples we continue our journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels. The tunnels played a crucial role during the Vietnam War (1955-1975), serving as hiding spots, supply routes, hospitals, and living quarters for Viet Cong guerrilla fighters. The Cu Chi Tunnels cover an extensive area with a network of tunnels that stretch over 250 kilometers in total length. They are organized into multiple layers, including living areas, weapons factories, field hospitals, command centers, and kitchens.

At the tunnels, we have the opportunity to crawl through sections of the tunnels, which have been widened for visitor access. This gives a firsthand experience of the cramped conditions and the ingenuity of their construction. As the afternoon draws to a close we make our way back to Ho Chi Minh City, arriving around 5 pm. We stay overnight in the same hotel. (Breakfast andl lunch are included)
 
Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta

Departing from Ho Chi Minh City between 7:45 am and 8:00 am, we journey southward in a private minibus for a little over two hours to reach Cai Be. Upon arrival, we board a boat to embark on an exploration of the intricate waterways of the Mekong Delta, passing by mango groves and lush fruit orchards. Known as the 'rice bowl' of Vietnam, the fertile delta cultivates rice, tropical fruits, and flowers for the entire country.

 The scenic views along the canal are breathtaking. We make occasional stops to try the succulent crops of the delta, interact with the local people, and witness the industries surrounding the river up close. Additionally, we enjoy a leisurely bicycle ride along the banks of the Mekong River.

The riverbanks are adorned with coconut palms, rice fields, orchards, and charming stilted houses, while the waterway bustles with boats of all shapes and sizes. Our journey continues to the floating market of Cai Rang. As the sun sets, we take a serene stroll along the banks of the Mekong River. In the evening, we stay overnight in a comfortable lodge. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)

Day 4: Mekong Delta - Ho Chi Minh City

In the early morning, we embark on an exploration of the vibrant floating market of Cai Rang, where we see the waterways and gain insights into the delta's way of life. Following this, we continue our journey to Ben Tre province. Here, we leisurely bike through the village, observing at the lush orchards lining the river tributaries.

We traverse the riverfront, winding through narrow lanes and rural villages, where water buffaloes graze peacefully and locals tend to their fruit crops, warmly greeting us along the way. Later, we enjoy a delicious lunch with a local family. Finally, we board our bus for the return journey to Ho Chi Minh City, arriving late in the afternoon. (Breakfast and lunch are included)

The facts…

Physical activities: 

Our itinerary includes easy walks, hiks, kayaks and bicycle rides. They include:
 

• A 2-4 km walk on Day 1
• A 3-5 km walk on Day 2
   
• A 2-3 km walk and a 1-2 hour bicycle ride on Day 3
• A 1-2 hour boat ride on Day 4

Transport: 
 

• Air-conditioned vehicle (Car or Bus)
• Boat

Tour Guide: Our experienced, friendly and professional tour guide speaks good English. He is knowledgeable about local cultures, history and the environment.

Accommodation:
 

• Hotel (2 nights)
• Lodge (1 night)

Meals:
 

• 3 breakfasts
• 3 lunches
• 1 dinner

We choose local ingredients, typical of the way people eat in the area, at local restaurants, homes or markets. We also cater for Vegetarians but please request this at time of booking.

Trip cost: 
 

• $456USD per person for a group from 2 to 6 people
• $385USD per person for a group from 7 to 12 people

                  
The cost of the trip includes:
 

• Tour guide
• Accommodation
   
• Transportation
• Meals listed on the itinerary
   
• Purified drinking water
• Entrance fees
• VAT and other taxes

The cost of the trip does not include:
 

• Travel insurance
• Drinks (soft drinks, alcohol)
   
• Tips and gratuities
• Personal expenses such as shopping, telephone, laundry and bar bills etc....

What to Bring:

Pack essentials, including light comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities. It is essential to bring your passport on this trip. We also recommend packing: small day pack, insect repellent, sun cream, raincoat, sun hat…