SAIGON, MEKONG DELTA & BEYOND: AN UNFORGETTABLE TOUR

• After arrival, you will be transferred to the hotel. 
• Have lunch.
• In the afternoon, embark on a comprehensive city tour of Ho Chi Minh City. This tour includes visits to:

• The War Remnants Museum showcases artifacts and exhibitions related to the Vietnam War.
• Notre – Dame Cathedral, is a prominent landmark, a significant religious site, and a famous Roman Catholic cathedral in Vietnam.
• Independence Palace holds great historical and political importance and symbolizes the country's journey towards independence and reunification.
• Central Post, a historic post office built during the French colonial period in the late 19th century, is a significant architectural landmark in the city.

• Enjoy dinner on the cruise with a panoramic view of the Saigon River.

• Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

• Have breakfast.
• Depart for The Cu Chi Tunnels, located approximately 60 kilometers northwest of Saigon Center (travel approximately 2 hours). This immense underground network played a crucial role during the Vietnam War (1954 – 1975), serving as a strategic base for the Viet Cong soldiers. You will have the opportunity to explore a section of the tunnels, witnessing the guerrilla fighters' remarkable engineering and survival techniques. Crawling through the narrow passages, you will gain insights into the harsh conditions and challenges faced by the soldiers during the war. 
• Depart for Tay Ninh (traveling 55km in 70 minutes from Cu Chi Tunnels), a province situated near Vietnam - Cambodian border:

• First, enjoy lunch with local specialties on Ba Den Mountain.
• Venture towards Ba Den Mountain, a revered site known for its natural beauty and cultural significance. As you ascend the mountain, be captivated by the lush greenery and serene surroundings. Explore the mountain's trails, dotted with temples, pagodas, and shrines. Take in the breathtaking panoramic views from the summit, offering a glimpse of the picturesque landscape below.

• Visit the Cao Dai Temple, a spiritual oasis nestled in Tay Ninh Province. Marvel at the temple's grand architecture, adorned with vibrant colors and intricate designs. Witness the midday ceremony, where devotees clad in colorful robes engage in sacred rituals, embodying the unique syncretic Cao Dai religion that blends elements of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and Christianity.

• Return to Ho Chi Minh City.
• Enjoy dinner with local specialties. 
• Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

• Have breakfast.
• Depart for Tien Giang Province (traveling 80km in 02 hours) journey, our knowledgeable guide will share fascinating facts about the Mekong Delta's history and culture.
• Arriving at My Tho Port, take a boat on The Upper Mekong River, which is part of the vast Mekong River system, one of the largest river systems in the world. Admire the floating fish farms on the river, and sightsee four famous islets: Dragon, Unicorn, Turtle, and Phoenix.

• Our next stop is the Thoi Son Islet, affectionately known as the Unicorn Islet. On this quaint island, you'll have the chance to immerse yourself in the authentic countryside experience. We'll take leisurely walks through charming village lanes and visit a local bee farm, where skilled beekeepers produce delicious honey. In addition, you will be treated to the mesmerizing tunes of Don Ca Tai Tu (Southern folk music performances), a unique musical genre recognized as an intangible cultural heritage of the world.

• Leaving the Unicorn Islet behind, we will continue our river journey to Phung Islet, also called Phoenix Islet. The boat ride offers fantastic views of the delta's lush greenery and serene waterways.
• Enjoy a local specialty lunch on Phung Islet.
• Next, we will visit a coconut candy workshop, where you'll witness the process of making this delectable treat. You'll also have the opportunity to taste freshly made coconut candy and learn interesting facts about the vast coconut plantations in Ben Tre Province.
• Our adventure takes a spiritual turn as we learn about the intriguing Coconut Religion, a unique belief system practiced by some of the Mekong Delta's inhabitants. Our guide will enlighten us on the customs and rituals associated with this fascinating spiritual tradition.
• Experience the tranquility of the Mekong Delta as we take a serene boat ride through the intricate network of small canals and waterways. The lush surroundings and peaceful ambiance create an unforgettable moment of harmony with nature.

• Embrace the simplicity of rural life, enjoy the fresh air, and relax amidst the natural surrounding. Chance to experience the serene countryside, witness traditional farming practices, and explore local fruit gardens and plantations.

• Disembark from the boat at the port in Ben Tre Province and depart for Cai Mon Ornamental Flower Village (traveling 35km in 01 hour).
• You will be traveling along the rural route QL57, passing through the region of Cho Lach - Cai Mon, the capital of ornamental plant cultivation in the South of Vietnam. This area is renowned for supplying millions of ornamental plants and flowers for the traditional Vietnamese Lunar New Year celebration.
• Explore Cai Mon Ornamental Flower Village and seize the opportunity to visit local nurseries, where you can gain valuable insights into the process of cultivating and caring for ornamental flowers. 
• From planting the seedlings to witnessing the blossoming of the flowers in their full glory, you will develop a deep understanding of the meticulous care and attention that the locals invest in nurturing these exquisite plants.

• Take your time to wander through the nurseries, observing the techniques employed by the local farmers in cultivating the flowers. You can witness the delicate process of nurturing the seedlings, ensuring they receive the optimal amount of sunlight, water, and nutrients for healthy growth.

(Note: This photo was taken in January)

• We will make a stop to visit a local ornamental plant cultivation facility in the area before proceeding with a local ferry ride to reach the city of Vinh Long.
• Continue to depart for Can Tho City and enjoy dinner with local specialties.
• Overnight in Can Tho City. 

• Embark on a scenic journey starting from Ninh Kieu Port as you board a boat to Phong Dien Floating Market on the Can Tho River. Navigate through narrow channels and meander through small waterways, experiencing the charm of the Mekong Delta's intricate network of canals.
• As you make your way back to the river, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Cai Rang Floating Market. Witness the bustling trade as vendors on their boats display an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, and local products. Engage with the lively atmosphere as boats navigate the river, creating a captivating scene of commerce and interaction.

• Throughout the journey, you will have the opportunity to observe the daily lives of the locals who rely on the waterways for their livelihood. The journey offers glimpses into the rich cultural heritage of the Mekong Delta region and provides a unique perspective on the importance of the river in the lives of the people.
• Have breakfast and check out of the hotel.
• Visit Binh Thuy Ancient House. This is a charming and historic tourist attraction located in Can Tho City. This well-preserved ancient house is a true architectural gem, showcasing the cultural and historical richness of the area.

• Binh Thuy Ancient House is a well-preserved historic attraction showcasing a blend of French colonial and traditional Vietnamese design. Surrounded by a lush garden, the house features exquisite woodwork, carvings, and antique furniture. Its fusion of Eastern and Western architectural styles offers spacious rooms with high ceilings and ample natural light. Knowledgeable guides share the house's history, including the contributions of its former residents. The serene garden with pathways, vibrant flowers, a lotus pond, and a gazebo provides a peaceful retreat. Binh Thuy Ancient House serves as both a historical site and cultural center, hosting events and activities such as traditional music performances and art exhibitions.
• Depart for Tra Su Forest in An Giang Province. You will be traveling along the rural route QL91 (traveling 120km in 03 hours).
• Enjoy lunch with local specialties.
• Tra Su Forest is a captivating natural wonder nestled in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam. This serene wetland area is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and abundant biodiversity, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and eco-tourists alike.

(Note: This photo was taken in September)

• The forest is characterized by an extensive network of waterways and tall cajuput trees, creating a picturesque landscape that exudes tranquility and harmony with nature. As you navigate through the forest on a peaceful boat ride, you will be enchanted by the mirror-like reflections of the towering trees on the calm waters below.

(Note: This photo was taken in September)

• Continue to depart for Chau Doc City (in An Giang Province) and enjoy dinner with local specialties.
• Overnight in Chau Doc City.

• Have breakfast.
• Depart from your accommodation in Chau Doc City and head to the riverbank to start your adventure.
• Board a traditional boat and embark on a captivating journey to Chau Doc Floating Village. Immerse yourself in the unique way of life as you glide past floating houses, markets, and schools, all gracefully perched on the water's surface. Observe the daily activities of the residents, and learn about their traditions and customs.

• Continue the boat tour to Chau Doc Fish Farm, a fascinating aquaculture site where you'll witness traditional fishing practices. Interact with local fishermen and gain insight into their sustainable methods of fish farming. Enjoy the picturesque scenery surrounding the fish farm, a testament to the beauty of the Mekong Delta.

• Venture to the Ethnic Cham Village, also known as Chau Giang Cham Village. Experience the unique culture and heritage of the Cham ethnic minority. Explore the village's charming surroundings, visit their traditional houses, and witness their skilled weaving techniques, producing beautiful fabrics and textiles.

• Engage in cultural exchanges with the friendly locals, learning about their customs, beliefs, and traditional practices. Take this opportunity to appreciate the rich diversity of Vietnam's ethnic groups.
• Enjoy lunch with local specialties.

• Return to Saigon (traveling 200km in 5.5 hours).
• Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City. Free time to relax.
• Enjoy dinner with local specialties.
• Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

• Have breakfast.
• Free time for Shopping or exploring Saigon.
• Enjoy lunch with local specialties.
• Depart Tan Son Nhat Airport and mark the end of your memorable journey.