Highlights of Southern Vietnam

Vietnam’s tropical south is a magical introduction to the essence of Indochina. Experience the energy of Saigon, then the cool breezes of Dalat in the Central Highlands. Hit Con Dao’s beaches for delicious seafood and ocean views and cruise the floating markets of the Mekong Delta searching for local delicacies.  The slow pace of this journey allows you to savor the distinct cultures and flavors of each town you visit.

Suitable for travelers with an average level of fitness and independent mobility. The tour involves plenty of walking, over uneven surfaces and climbing stairs, in the heat. There are three domestic flights and several small boats. You will need to be able to board and disembark boats independently, sometimes between muddy or slippery banks. There are some long road journeys (up to six hours). While accommodation is three to four-star or best available, this is not ‘sanitized’ travel; by day you will walk through markets and villages, meet local people, and sample local food.

The ‘Highlights of Southern Vietnam’ can be enjoyed at any time of the year but is most recommended between November and March, the dry season. Temperatures average between 22 – 30 degrees Celsius (72 - 86 degrees Fahrenheit). The ‘wet’ season is characterized by showers late in the afternoon with temperatures from 25 - 33 degrees Celsius (77 - 91 degrees Fahrenheit).

Day 01 - Saigon
Upon arrival in Saigon you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Tonight meet your tour leader (or local guide) for welcome drinks and a tour briefing.

Overnight Hotel Duxton or similar. (No meals)

Day 02 - Can Tho
Head out of the city to explore the Mekong Delta’s canals, orchards and towns by boat.

Overnight Golf Can Tho or similar. (B)

Day 03 - Saigon to Dalat
Fly to Vietnam’s temperate Central Highlands and discover peaceful Dalat, a French hill station untouched by war and home to many hilltribe minority groups.

Overnight Saigon Dalat Hotel or similar. (B)

Day 04 - Dalat
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Overnight Saigon Dalat Hotel or similar. (B)

Day 05 - Dalat
Discover a fascinating market, the faded grandeur of the Summer Palace of Bao Dai, last emperor of Vietnam, and a beautiful Zen Pagoda.

Overnight Saigon Dalat Hotel or similar. (B)

Day 06 - Saigon
See the bustling market streets and old temples of Saigon’s ‘Chinatown’ on a tour of this city.

Overnight Hotel Duxton or similar. (B)

Day 07 - Con Dao
Transfer to airport for flight to Con Dao island. Experience a peaceful slice of Vietnam in history-rich, idyllic Con Dao, the “next big thing” in Vietnamese beach communities.

Overnight Con Dao resort or similar. (B)

Day 08 - Con Dao
Enjoy a guided walk through the national park, or perhaps a tour of the local prisons (all now closed) which housed political prisoners for centuries.

Overnight Con Dao resort or similar. (B)

Day 09 - Saigon
After a morning flight to Saigon, enjoy the afternoon at leisure for shopping, dining or museum tours.

Overnight Hotel Duxton or similar. (B)

Day 10 - Final Departure
Today you will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey. . (B)

Per person Price (2012)

2 person: $2,645 USD per person
3 - 9 persons: $2,295 USD per person
10 or more persons: $1,765 USD per person

Single Supplement: $500 USD

Price includes:

• Expert pre-trip advice and detailed information
• Motivated, well-cared-for staff
• All airport transfers
• Transportation and touring as per the itinerary with entrance fees.
• Boat trip in Cai Be with lunch included.
• Boat trip in Can Tho
• Flight Saigon – Dalat // Dalat – Saigon // Saigon – Con Dao // Con Dao – Saigon based on economy class (including taxes)
• 1 Local English speaking guide/escort for entire trip

Price does not include:

• Your international airfare
• Vietnam Visa
• Meals not indicated in the itinerary
• Beverages
• Tips and gratuities
• Travel insurance (Required)
• Other expenses of a personal nature

Daily private departures available for two or more participants. Group discounts available.

Step 1: Contact Us
Contact us at 1-888-586-7750 or email to confirm availability for your preferred travel dates.

Step 2: Send Deposit and Registration Information
Make a copy of the photo page of your passport. If your trip involves a trek in Nepal, email or send us a passport-sized color photo. Mail a check for $500 per person for Nepal Treks or $1,000 for other journeys (non-refundable deposit), passport copy, photo and completed reservation form.

Our mailing address is:
Grand Asian Journeys
PO Box 608
Indianola, WA 98342
USA

Once we receive your payment and documents we will send you additional details of your trip including travel details, VISA information, packing list, specific trip information and insurance options.

If you are traveling to Bhutan, we are required to book your airfare so an additional payment will be required. Contact us for details.

Cancelation Policy

If you cancel:

• More than 60 days prior to departure; deposit is forfeited, the remainder is refunded
• 60 to 30 days prior to departure, 50% of tour cost subject to refund
• No refunds will be provided for any unused services or cancellations made within 30 days prior to departure