Vietnam - 12 days

Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you’ll be met by our Vietnam team and transferred to your hotel in the vibrant city of Hanoi. This is your chance to relax and get settled after your flight to South-East Asia. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a welcome dinner at a traditional Vietnamese restaurant - your first taste of the country’s delicious and diverse cuisine.

After breakfast at the hotel, we begin a guided tour of Hanoi. Our first stop is the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, where students will gain fascinating insights into the daily life, traditions, and customs of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. We then visit Ba Dinh Square, where President Ho Chi Minh declared the country's independence in 1945, followed by the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university, founded in 1070.  We finish with a peaceful walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, before departing for Hai Phong City, with a drive of approximately two hours.

After breakfast in Haiphong, we board a ferry to Cat Ba Island, where our first stop is Cat Ba National Park. Here, we take a short hike to a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the island’s lush landscape. Next, we explore Trung Trang Grotto, a fascinating limestone cave known for its striking rock formations. Part of this cave system once served as a military hospital during the Vietnam War, adding historical significance to its natural beauty. We then enjoy lunch at a local beachside restaurant before spending the afternoon relaxing at Cat Co Beach 1 (weather permitting). Take a swim or simply unwind by the sea. Later, we take a gentle seaside walk along a coastal trail with sweeping views 

of Lan Ha Bay.

After breakfast, we leave Hai Phong and take a scenic 3.5-hour drive to Ninh Binh, known as for its stunning limestone mountains and tropical landscapes. We’ll have lunch at a local restaurant, then hop on a peaceful sampan boat ride through Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As we float along calm rivers, we’ll pass through caves and rice paddies surrounded by dramatic cliffs. Next, we visit Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital, to learn about two important kings from the 10th century. Finally, we climb the steps of Mua Cave for one of the best views in Vietnam—overlooking the valley, rice fields, and towering limestone pinnacles.

After an early breakfast at the hotel, we set off for Yen Bai Province, enjoying a scenic 6-hour drive through peaceful rural areas. When we arrive at Lam Thuong Village, we’ll settle into a traditional stilt-house homestay and enjoy a lunch made by our hosts. After some rest, we’ll take a relaxing bike ride along quiet village paths, past rice fields and stilt houses, getting to know local life. Later, you can cool off with a swim in a natural water pool surrounded by nature. In the evening, join your host family for a fun cooking class where you’ll learn to make local Vietnamese dishes—and then enjoy the meal together.

After breakfast at the homestay, begin the day with a meaningful cultural exchange by visiting a nearby local primary school. Spend the morning interacting with students, joining a friendly volleyball game, and teaching them simple English words and phrases. After returning to the homestay for lunch, prepare for an active afternoon adventure. Cycle to a nearby waterfall and enjoy a short walk to the falls, where you can take a refreshing swim if the weather allows. On the way back, visit local families and, depending on the season, take part in farming activities to experience rural life up close.

After breakfast at the homestay, we depart for Sapa, enjoying a scenic 3.5-hour drive through winding mountain roads and beautiful highland landscapes. Upon arrival, we’ll have lunch at a local restaurant before checking into the hotel. The afternoon is free to relax at your own pace—whether that’s taking a swim in the hotel’s pool or going for a gentle walk around Sapa Town and Xuan Vien Lake, soaking in the cool mountain air and picturesque surroundings. In the evening, we’ll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in town.

WILD ANIMAL CONSERVATION CENTRE

After breakfast at the hotel, we will head to the Conservation Centre, where the day begins with a warm welcome and a brief introduction to the centre’s mission, its ongoing conservation efforts, and the dedicated staff who work there. A short orientation will follow, outlining the day’s program and safety instructions. Participants will then be divided into three small groups, each supervised by a local team leader. Tasks may include:

Cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures and nearby areas

Assisting with basic care routines for the animals

Preparing food and water as instructed

Supporting the conservation staff with their daily work

WILD ANIMAL CONSERVATION CENTRE

Following breakfast at the hotel, we will return to the Conservation Centre to continue your volunteer work. To help everyone gain a broader understanding of the centre’s operations, today’s program will include a rotation of tasks, giving each group the opportunity to experience different aspects of the work and contribute in new ways. Possible activities include:

Cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures and surrounding areas

Preparing food and water for the animals

Assisting conservation staff with daily care routines

Supporting other ongoing conservation projects at the centre

Eco-farming in the MUong HoA Valley

After breakfast at the hotel,  we set off on a 7 km trek through the beautiful Muong Hoa Valley, known for its terraced rice fields, mountain views, and the Black Hmong ethnic community. Enjoy stunning scenery as you make your way to Lao Chai Village, where you’ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, you will take part in an eco-farming activity with a local family. Depending on the season, you may help with:

Repairing pig or chicken pens

Assisting with basic farming tasks

Supporting beekeepers with honey-packing

These activities offer both practical support and a glimpse into rural life!

After breakfast we begin the day with a visit to the local Sapa market. Wander through colourful stalls filled with fresh produce, handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs, sold by vendors from nearby ethnic minority communities. It’s a great chance to experience the energy of local daily life and pick up unique, locally made items. After lunch, we board the Fansipan Cable Car for a breathtaking ride up Fansipan Mountain, known as the “Roof of Indochina” at 3,143 meters. From the upper station, we take the mountain funicular to reach the summit, for panoramic views of the Hoang Lien National Park, with its dramatic peaks, deep valleys, and misty cloudscapes. In the evening, we gather for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant to celebrate our Vietnamese experience!

After breakfast at the hotel, it's time to check out and begin the journey back to Hanoi. We’ll transfer to Noi Bai International Airport, a scenic drive of approximately five hours. Along the way, we’ll make a short stop to enjoy a light lunch and stretch our legs before continuing on. Upon arrival at the airport, we’ll assist with check-in procedures for your flight home. As this memorable journey through Vietnam comes to a close, we hope you leave with lasting memories, new friendships, and a deeper appreciation for the country’s culture and natural beauty.