🌏 Great Outdoor Adventure — 14 Days of Discovery and Delight for Your Family

Your family adventure begins as you touch down in Hanoi, Vietnam’s vibrant capital. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel in the city center.

Take some time to unwind after your flight — perhaps enjoy a gentle stroll around the nearby Hoan Kiem Lake, watch locals practicing tai chi, or simply relax and soak in the city’s lively atmosphere.

In the evening, your guide will escort you to one of Hanoi’s finest restaurants, where you’ll savor a delicious welcome dinner of authentic northern Vietnamese cuisine — the perfect introduction to the country’s rich culinary culture.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Wake up to the charming rhythm of Hanoi, where ancient traditions blend beautifully with modern life. After breakfast, set out on a delightful cyclo ride through the bustling Old Quarter — a maze of narrow streets, local markets, and hidden temples. Continue through the French Colonial Quarter, admiring elegant architecture, tree-lined boulevards, and grand landmarks that reflect the city’s rich heritage.

The afternoon is yours to explore freely. You may wish to visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university; stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake; or simply relax at a family-friendly café and watch daily life unfold.

As evening falls, your guide will escort you to experience one of Hanoi’s most charming traditions — a captivating water puppet show, an art form that dates back centuries. Afterwards, enjoy a delicious Vietnamese dinner at a local restaurant, where regional flavors come alive.

Overnight in Hanoi.

After breakfast, leave the bustle of Hanoi behind and set out on a scenic drive (approximately 3–5 hours) to Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam’s oldest and most important nature reserve. Along the way, enjoy views of rural landscapes dotted with limestone hills and rice paddies — a peaceful glimpse into northern Vietnam’s countryside.

Upon arrival, visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, where dedicated conservationists care for rare species such as Delacour’s langur, gibbons, and leaf monkeys. It’s a fascinating and educational experience for both adults and children, offering a close look at Vietnam’s efforts to protect its wildlife.

Later, check into your forest bungalow accommodations, nestled amid lush greenery and the tranquil sounds of the jungle. After dinner, you may join an optional night safari (weather permitting) to spot nocturnal wildlife in the primary forest — perhaps the elusive Black Giant Squirrel, civets, or flying lemurs.

Overnight in Cuc Phuong National Park.

Awake to the peaceful sounds of the jungle and enjoy breakfast surrounded by nature. This morning, venture deep into Cuc Phuong National Park’s heart for a half-day trek through dense tropical rainforest. Along the way, your guide will point out towering trees, rare plants, colorful butterflies, and singing birds that make this park a living natural museum.

Your trek also takes you to ancient limestone caves, once home to prehistoric humans — a fascinating reminder of Vietnam’s deep natural and cultural history. The walk is gentle yet full of wonder, making it an exciting outdoor classroom for children and adults alike.

Return to your bungalow by midday to relax and enjoy the peaceful forest atmosphere. The afternoon is free for your family to rest, explore short trails on your own, or simply unwind with nature’s soundtrack all around.

Dinner will be served at your lodge before settling in for another night in the forest.

Overnight in Cuc Phuong National Park.

After breakfast, bid farewell to the tranquil forests of Cuc Phuong National Park and embark on a scenic 5-hour journey toward the coast. Along the way, watch the landscapes change from emerald mountains to endless rice paddies and charming rural villages — a true portrait of Vietnam’s countryside.

Arrive at Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands rising dramatically from the sea. Step aboard your traditional wooden junk boat, where a friendly crew welcomes you with a refreshing drink and a delicious seafood lunch served on deck as the cruise begins.

In the afternoon, explore some of the bay’s mystical caves filled with stalactites and legends, then take time to swim or kayak among hidden lagoons and secluded beaches — a perfect family adventure surrounded by stunning scenery.

As evening falls, enjoy a freshly prepared dinner on board, while the children can try their hand at night fishing under the starry sky. Drift to sleep in your cozy cabin, lulled by the gentle sway of the boat.

Overnight aboard your junk boat in Halong Bay.

Wake up to the gentle lapping of the waves and the soft light of dawn over Halong Bay — a truly magical start to the day. After breakfast on board, continue your cruise through the bay’s spectacular seascape, gliding past towering limestone formations and emerald waters.

Today’s adventure takes you to some of Halong’s most scenic and lesser-visited spots, including Dau Nguoi Island, Con Rua (Turtle) Island, and the tranquil Luon Cave, a serene lagoon accessed through a low archway of rock. You’ll also stop at Bai Tu Long Beach, perfect for swimming or simply relaxing on the soft sand, and visit the peaceful Ba Ham Lake, known for its hidden grottoes and clear waters.

Lunch is served on board as your boat drifts between the limestone towers. In the late afternoon, the cruise anchors near Cat Ba Beach, where you can swim, kayak, or just enjoy the sunset painting the bay in golden hues.

After dinner, relax under the stars or enjoy quiet family time on deck as the boat gently rocks on the calm waters.

Overnight aboard your junk boat near Cat Ba Island.

Wake early to catch the sunrise over Halong Bay, a breathtaking sight as the morning mist drifts between the limestone peaks. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board while your boat continues its journey through the tranquil waters of Bai Tu Long Bay, a quieter and equally stunning corner of the bay known for its unspoiled beauty.

After a few final scenic moments, your cruise returns to the pier, where you’ll disembark and meet your driver for the journey back to Hanoi. Along the way, take in the peaceful countryside scenes of buffalo grazing and farmers tending their rice fields.

Arriving in Hanoi by late afternoon, you’ll have the rest of the day free to explore at your own pace — perhaps enjoy a family stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, browse local shops, or relax at a café in the Old Quarter.

If your return to Hanoi falls on a weekend evening (Friday, Saturday or Sunday), you’ll have a chance to explore one of the city’s liveliest cultural traditions: the Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street and Weekend Night Market. Local arts and cultural performances are often part of the scene—live music, portrait sketching on Dinh Tiên Hoàng Street, folk artists, and eager crowds soaking in local life. It’s a great opportunity for families to stroll together, try local snacks (think bánh mì, chè, and other street-food favorites), pick up souvenirs, and enjoy the lights and energy of Hanoi at night.

Overnight in Hanoi.

This morning, transfer to the airport for your early flight to Danang. Upon arrival, your guide will greet you and drive you along a scenic coastal route to Hoi An, one of Vietnam’s most enchanting towns and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After checking in to your hotel, enjoy some free time at leisure to relax or explore the surroundings at your own pace — perhaps take a stroll along the Thu Bon River or unwind by the pool.

In the afternoon, set out on a guided walking tour through the narrow, lantern-lined streets of Hoi An’s Ancient Quarter, where centuries of cultural influences come to life. Visit key landmarks such as Chua Ong Pagoda, the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation, the beautifully preserved 200-year-old Tan Ky Ancient House, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An’s timeless charm.

As evening falls, enjoy a flavorful dinner at a local restaurant, where regional specialties like Cao Lau noodles and White Rose dumplings showcase the unique tastes of central Vietnam.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Begin your morning with relaxation on An Bang or Cua Dai Beach, where the powdery white sands and calm waves make it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, or water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and banana boat rides — perfect for families or those seeking seaside fun.

Savor a seafood lunch at a beachfront restaurant, sampling local delicacies like grilled squid, clams in lemongrass broth, and Hoi An-style steamed fish, all while enjoying sweeping ocean views.

In the afternoon, embark on a scenic boat trip on the Thu Bon River to nearby Thanh Ha Pottery Village or Kim Bong Carpentry Village. Here, witness artisans at work shaping traditional ceramics or carving intricate wooden pieces by hand — a fascinating glimpse into Hoi An’s centuries-old craftsmanship.

Return to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure, perhaps strolling along the lantern-lit streets of the Ancient Town, where the reflections on the river create a truly magical scene.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Spend a full day at your own pace in this charming riverside town. You may wish to:

• Join a Vietnamese cooking class, starting with a guided visit to the local morning market to select fresh herbs, seafood, and produce, followed by a hands-on session preparing traditional dishes such as Cao Lau and Banh Xeo.
• Cycle through the countryside to Tra Que Vegetable Village, where you can learn about organic farming and enjoy a refreshing herbal foot massage.
• Explore tailor shops in the Old Town — Hoi An is world-famous for its bespoke clothing, with expert tailors able to create custom outfits within a day.
• Or simply relax at a riverside café with a cup of Hoi An’s signature coffee and watch daily life unfold.

As night falls, the town glows under colorful lanterns, with gentle music and riverside dining creating the perfect farewell atmosphere.

Overnight in Hoi An.

🌕 Optional Experience – Hoi An Lantern Festival (if your visit coincides with the full moon):
On the 14th day of each lunar month, the Old Town turns off its electric lights, and the entire riverside glows under thousands of handmade silk lanterns. Locals and visitors gather to release paper lanterns onto the Thu Bon River, each carrying a wish for peace and good fortune. The atmosphere is both festive and spiritual — an unforgettable highlight of any visit to Hoi An.

After breakfast, transfer to Danang Airport for your morning flight to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon). Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted and escorted to your hotel for check-in.

After lunch at a local restaurant, begin a private guided city tour, discovering the fascinating contrasts of Vietnam’s most dynamic metropolis. Wander through the bustling streets of Chinatown (Cho Lon), where markets overflow with herbs, silk, and temple offerings. Visit ancient pagodas, mosques, and the impressive Notre Dame Cathedral, each reflecting the city’s diverse cultural heritage.

Continue to the War Remnants Museum, which offers an insightful and moving look into Vietnam’s wartime history. Along the way, admire colonial-era architecture such as the Central Post Office and Opera House, symbols of old Saigon’s charm.

The evening is free to explore the vibrant nightlife — from rooftop lounges and street food stalls to the lively Ben Thanh night market.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

This morning, journey out of the city for a half-day excursion to the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels, an extraordinary underground network stretching more than 200 kilometers. Built by Vietnamese resistance fighters during the war, the tunnels served as living quarters, supply routes, and hidden strongholds.

With your guide, descend into the reconstructed sections to experience what life was like underground — a fascinating and educational adventure for both adults and children. See ingenious trapdoors, air-vent systems, and even sample the simple wartime cassava snack once eaten by local soldiers.

Return to Ho Chi Minh City by midday. The afternoon is free at leisure — relax at your hotel or opt for a fun family outing to one of the city’s attractions:

• Dam Sen Water Park – a whimsical world of slides, pools, and family fun.
• History Museum – offering an insightful look into Vietnam’s cultural past.
• Dam Sen Cultural Park – a magical combination of gardens, rides, and performances that delight visitors of all ages.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

This morning, set off early from your hotel for a full-day adventure into the heart of the Mekong Delta, often called Vietnam’s “rice bowl.” Your destination is Ben Tre, a peaceful province known for its lush coconut groves, winding waterways, and welcoming local communities.

On arrival, take a leisurely walk along the riverside promenade, lined with charming French-era shopfronts and bustling coconut warehouses — a true glimpse into everyday delta life. Then, board a private boat and cruise along the maze of palm-shaded canals, watching fishermen cast their nets and villagers transport goods on wooden sampans.

Stop at local workshops to see how coconuts are processed into candies, mats, and other traditional products. Along the way, enjoy fresh tropical fruits and a leisurely lunch at a riverside restaurant or aboard your boat, savoring Mekong specialties such as elephant ear fish and sweet coconut dessert.

In the afternoon, return to the pier where your vehicle awaits for the journey back to Ho Chi Minh City, arriving in the late afternoon.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel and some free time to relax or explore Ho Chi Minh City one last time — perhaps picking up a few souvenirs from Ben Thanh Market or savoring a final cup of rich Vietnamese coffee at a local café.

When it’s time, your driver will transfer you to the airport for your departure flight home.

As your Great Outdoor Adventure through Vietnam with  Oriental Destination comes to an end, take with you wonderful memories of the landscapes, wildlife, history, and smiling faces that made this family journey truly unforgettable.