11 April 2026 - 13 days for £3,595 per person
10 April 2027 - 13 days for £3,595 per person
Journey through Vietnam’s deep history from Hanoi to Hoi An on a science-rich adventure where every landscape reveals a story millions of years in the making, accompanied by Dr Amy Gough, whose expert insights bring the geology to life. Explore steamy tropical jungles and towering limestone karsts born from ancient seas, venture into vast cave systems sculpted over deep time, and discover how powerful natural forces have shaped both the land and the people who call it home.
Discover the connection between geology and biodiversity as you visit Cuc Phuong National Park’s Save Vietnam Center, where conservation teams protect endangered species such as pangolins and civets. Drift among the limestone towers of the Ninh Binh Valley, glide through the grottoes of Tam Coc, and cruise across Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site whose spectacular caves and cliffs have been sculpted over 300 million years.
Accompanied throughout by geoscientist Dr Amy Gough who has spent over a decade studying the geology of Southeast Asia. Her fieldwork spans volcanoes, rivers, and tectonic zones from Java to Japan, with a focus on the processes that shaped Vietnam’s dramatic karst landscapes and coastlines. During the tour she will offer insightful talks and walking seminars revealing how to read the rocks and uncover the deep history behind Vietnam's stunning scenery.
This tour is designed for those who love understanding why a place looks the way it does, not just admiring the view. Blending geology, conservation, and rich cultural encounters, it offers a deeper introduction to Vietnam - exploring ancient landscapes, vital environmental work, and vibrant traditions through the stories written in the land itself. Perfect for travellers who want insight, connection, and discovery beyond the scenery.
In partnership with Intrepid Travel.
MAP
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN HANOI
Welcome to Vietnam! On arrival, check in to the GM Premium hotel.
This city is famous for its beautiful lakes, shaded boulevards, verdant public parks and its thriving Old Quarter. The latter is a veritable architectural museum piece, with blocks of ochre buildings retaining the air of a 1930s provincial French town.
If you arrive early, perhaps head to the city’s colourful Old Quarter and explore the charming jumble of shops and cafés, or check out the Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum, showcasing ancient through to contemporary Vietnamese art. You could explore Hanoi's world-famous street food or unwind by Hoan Kiem Lake.
Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at at your hotel, followed by a group dinner at KOTO restaurant – this organisation is dedicated to developing the hospitality careers of disadvantaged youth.
This evening you will overnight at the GM Premium hotel in Hanoi.
DAY 2: CUC PHUONG NATIONAL PARK AND SAVE VIETNAM CENTER FOR ENDANGERED WILDLIFE
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, you will head to Cuc Phuong National Park, about a 3-hour drive away. Here, you will visit the Endangered Primates Rescue Centre, where they focus on the conservation of gibbons and langurs. You will have a chance to see how the staff feed them, study their behaviour and prepare them for full release into the wild.
After checking into the Cuc Phuong Resort, you will transfer by car to the Save Vietnam Center to meet conservation staff and observe how they protect and feed pangolins, civets and otters. This rescue centre is one part of the worldwide effort to save endangered primates and other native Vietnamese animals from extinction through poaching and loss of habitat. The entry fee (included in the tour price) helps fund their work, which includes rehabilitation, reintroduction, research and conservation education. This is followed by a late dinner just inside Cuc Phuong National Park’s gates.
This evening you will overnight at the Cuc Phong Resort.
DAY 3: TAM COC GROTTOES AND STUNNING LANDSCAPE OF NINH BINH
After waking to the sounds of the jungle you will take a short guided trek in the forest. Afterwards you will head out to explore the extraordinary scenery of Ninh Binh province. You will take lunch in a traditional Vietnamese restaurant, then transfer to Tam Coc pier where you will take a boat up the river. While gliding along the Ngo Dong river among the rice paddies and karst limestone mountains, you will visit the Tam Coc grottoes, part of an exquisite cave system with ceilings just 2 metres high, eroded through the limestone hills.
In the late afternoon, when it is a little cooler, you will visit the misnamed Mua cave whose main attraction is two karst mountains with 500 steps each that afford amazing views of Ninh Binh's beaitful landscape of forested limestone pillars, calm rivers, pristine rice fields and local villages.
This evening you will overnight at the luxurious Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel and Resort in Tam Coc.
DAY 4: CRUISING THROUGH HA LONG BAY
In the morning you will transfer to Ha Long City wharf, where your cruise will begin at midday aboard the small but luxurious Paradise Cruise Elegance ship.
Ha Long Bay was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 and according to geologists, the Ha Long Bay you see now has been in the making for 300 million years. Centuries of erosion from the rain and sea have shaped the karsts, valleys and caves that make this incredible landscape.
Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch while taking in the dramatic scenery, then explore hidden caves and secluded islands that showcase unique geological formations and thriving ecosystems.
As the day fades into night, the sunset paints the sky with hues of pink and orange, a magical backdrop for a memorable dinner on board the ship.
This evening you will overnight onboard the Paradise Cruise Elegance ship in Ha Long Bay.
DAY 5: CRUISE TO THEN EXPLORE THE OLD QUARTER OF HANOI
Enjoy an early morning tai chi session on the sundeck with a light breakfast of tea, coffee and pastries. Afterwards, venture into Sung Sot Cave, the largest and most spectacular cave in Ha Long Bay. Formed over millions of years through the slow dissolution of limestone by water, the cave is a remarkable example of karst topography, featuring soaring stalactites and stalagmites that create a cathedral-like interior. As you explore its chambers, notice how mineral-rich water has sculpted intricate formations and how the cave provides shelter for unique ecosystems, including bats and other cave-dwelling species. Emerging from the cave, a short climb leads to a panoramic viewpoint, offering sweeping vistas of Ha Long Bay’s emerald waters and jagged limestone islands
You will then get back on the ship and enjoy brunch while the cruise passes by Thien Cung and Dau Go Cave. Soak up the scenery of Halong Bay and take in those turquoise water views one last time before disembarking and driving to Hanoi by private minibus (a journey of approximately 3 hours).
In the late afternoon join your tour leader for a walk through the Old Quarter and then stop at the local restaurant for ‘Bún Chả’ – Hanoi’s specialty. After a long day, you will finish with evening beers at famous Bia Hoi Corner, where you will taste local freshly brewed beer.
This evening you will overnight at the GM Premium hotel in Hanoi.
DAY 6: HANOI TO PHONG NHA
This morning, the leader will pick you up at the hotel and let’s get insights of Hanoi capital. It is common in Vietnam to wake up very early and start the morning with some exercise, and you will see several groups of people practicing tai chi and aerobics. Be part of Vietnam and join the locals in their morning routine!
Begin with a visit to Huu Tiep Lake, better known as ‘B-52 lake’, where US B-52 bomber wreckage can be seen. Then onto the Temple of Literature, built in 1076. Vietnam’s first university was established within this temple to educate Vietnam's royalty, mandarins and members of the elite.
You will then take a short flight to Dong Hoi on the north coast, followed by a short drive to the Phong Nha Lake House Resort. The area is renowned for its enormous caves, karsts and jungle-clad mountains leading to an extraordinary ambiance.
Check into the Phong Nha Lake House Eco Resort where you will overnight for three nights.
DAY 7: PHONG NHA NATIONAL PARK INCLUDING TIEN SON AND PHONG NHA CAVE
Today, you will travel to Phong Nha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its extraordinary karst landscape and ancient caves. Your exploration begins with a scenic boat trip along the Son River to Tien Son Cave, also known as the Dry Cave. Accidentally discovered by a local resident in 1935, Tien Son Cave showcases magnificent stalactites and stalagmites, formed over millions of years as water slowly dissolved the limestone, creating a natural underground gallery.
Continue by boat to Phong Nha Cave, or the Water Cave, famous for being part of the oldest karst system in Asia — estimated at around 400 million years old — and for housing the park’s longest underground river, stretching 8 kilometre with ceilings soaring up to 50 meters. This living geological museum reveals how water, minerals, and time combine to shape extraordinary subterranean landscapes.
After lunch, continue to Paradise Cave, discovered in 2005 by a local man and fully explored by the British Cave Research Association. Stretching an impressive 31 km, it surpasses Phong Nha Cave as the longest cave in the park. Inside, you’ll witness massive stalactites, stalagmites, and unique formations that tell the story of millions of years of geological processes, offering a rare glimpse into the natural forces that have sculpted one of the world’s most remarkable karst regions.
Afterwards, head back to Phong Nha for a well-earned rest after this amazing day.
DAY 8: DAY AT LEISURE IN PHONG NHA
Today you will have the day to relax or explore at leisure.
Optional activity: For those seeking a bit more adventure, there is an option (additional fee required) to join the Tu Lan cave experience where you will enjoy an action-packed day to discover the magnificent caves of the Tu Lan cave system, including trekking, climbing, swimming and picnic lunch by a waterfall. You will be met and drive to the Oxalis Adventure office in Tan Hoa, located 70 kilometres from Phong Nha. Here you will have a safety briefing and you will be required to sign the release form. You will then receive the required equipment for the tour. The trek begins along a gentle, flat path past peanut fields and grazing buffalo and cows, offering a peaceful introduction to the countryside. You’ll then cross a river before tackling a 60-meter rocky uphill section that leads to Little Rat Cave, where unique rock formations and adventurous obstacles provide plenty of opportunities for memorable photos. Exiting the cave, you’ll descend to Rat Waterfall, a scenic spot perfect for a refreshing swim and a relaxing wilderness lunch. Contact the team at Intrepid to book this unforgettable adventure.
DAY 9: KEY SITES OF THE VIETNAM WAR
The day starts with the Vinh Moc tunnel complex that sheltered 60 families from intensive bombing in the Vietnam war without any loss of life. Be guided through the tunnels and gain insight into this feat of engineering and human resilience.
Then it is onto the Hien Luong Bridge over the Ben Hai river in the middle of the DMZ (demilitarized zone). The river was the only true physical demarcation between North and South Vietnam during the Vietnam war.
After midday, you will visit the Quang Tri Citadel, a military bastion and an administrative head office of Nguyen Dynasty in Quang Tri province from 1809 to 1945. In 1972, the Citadel came under intense attack from American forces for 81 days but managed to remain in Vietnamese hands.
After lunch near the Citadel, you will transfer to Hue and check into the Pilgrimage Village Resort and Spa for two nights.
DAY 10: DISCOVER HUE THE AUTHENTIC WAY
Delve further into the fascinating former capital today. Your first visit is the Imperial Citadel, which is the best-preserved remnant of a large citadel and Royal centre that once existed on this fortified site. The unique fortifications are fascinating, even though much of this place has sadly been destroyed by war. The foliage-covered ruins make for an interesting couple of hours of exploring. Then continue explore the Forbidden Purple City, which was almost totally wiped out during the Tet Offensive in 1968. The gaping holes left by bombs give an idea of the shocking destruction wreaked upon the country during the war.
Then visit Thuy Xuan village which is the largest incense-making village known for hundreds of year in Hue. In the village, you will have a chance not only to make sticks of incense yourself, but also to understand more about their daily local life.
For lunch, savour a vegetarian feast in a nunnery.
Continue at the lakeside royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc before heading back to town.
DAY 11: LANG CO LAGOON AND HOI AN
This morning, visit An Bang Cemetery, often referred to as the "City of Ghosts," is a fascinating and unique destination located about 35 kilometers East of Hue City. This cemetery is renowned for its vibrant and intricate architectural tombs, which resemble miniature houses and showcase a blend of styles, including Buddhism, Christianity, Taoism, Islam, and European influences. It's a remarkable place to explore Vietnam's cultural traditions and artistic expressions.
Afterwards, transfer to Hoi An via the Lang Co lagoon. Travel through the Hai Van Pass which has been described as a giant dragon lying on the border between Hue and Da Nang, stretching from the Truong Son range to the sea. If the weather is favourable, as you pass through the clouds you’ll have a chance to witness the breathtaking views of Lang Co Bay.
On arrival in Hoi An, settle into your hotel for freshen up and the rest of the evening is free time.
This evening you will overnight at La Siesta Hoi An Resort.
DAY 12: EXPLORE HOI AN
Recently declared a World Heritage site, Hoi An was a major international trading port during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Today, parts of the beautifully preserved town retain the feel of centuries past. It's also a shopping mecca, famous for its plethora of tailors.
Your tour leader will take you on a sightseeing walk through the Old Town to visit a handful of the city's major attractions.
The rest of your time is left free to relax in this beautiful area. Hoi An is one of the best places to shop for souvenirs, especially if you’re looking for t-shirts, paintings or ceramics. For those interested in getting clothes tailored, this is definitely the place to shop. You might also like to speak to your leader about arranging a cooking lesson and learn about the many layers of fresh herbs and flavours that can be found in Vietnam's fresh and tasty cuisine.
In the evening there will be a final farewell dinner with the group.
This evening you will overnight at La Siesta Hoi An Resort.
DAY 13: DEPART HOI AN
After breakfast at the hotel, you will say goodbye to Hoi An. There will be a group transfer to the airport. Alternatively, there is the option to extend your time in Vietnam if you wish, please speak to the Intrepid Travel team for suggestions.
Please note the itinerary is subject to change due to the weather, tide level and operating conditions without prior notice.
