Vietnam Trek

Vietnam

One of Southeast Asia’s most populous countries, Vietnam is an intoxicating and contrasting land of complex history, unrivalled scenic wonders and cultural gems.

Trip duration:
5 days

Challenge duration:
4 days

Challenge grade:
4/5

Departure months:
November to April

Accommodation:
Multi-share lodge with communal bathrooms

Hiking Vietnam

From serene emerald mountains and azure coastlines to the bustling silver cities, Vietnam offers a balance of antiquity and modernity.

Arriving in the thriving city of Hanoi, you will soon trek beyond city limits to experience all the sights, sounds and smells of this intoxicating country. From the ruins of ancient civilisations between quilted rice paddies, beside endless sugar palm plantations and into traditional rural villages, you will make your way through Vietnam, every kilometre you trek revealing a new splendour. Arriving in Ha Long Bay, you will then cruise emerald waters on a junk boat, feasting on fresh seafood as the sun sinks spectacularly into the horizon beyond towering limestone spires.

Aerial view of swirling green rice fields dotted with colourful huts. Sapa, Vietnam
Beautiful rock formations rising dramatically out of azure waters of Halong Bay, Vietnam.

Why you'll love this adventure

  • Trek together through the spectacular rice terraces and rippling emerald mountains of northwest Vietnam
  • Overnight on a traditional wooden boat in Ha Long Bay
  • Raise vital funds for your chosen cause and make friends with like-minded people when you travel for good

Trip notes

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi

Upon arrival, make your own way to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for you to explore and get settled into our hotel.

Meals: Nil

Day 2: Hanoi - Sapa

Today after breakfast we transfer in a private vehicle to Sapa. On arrival in Sapa, we have lunch and then check in to our hotel. The remainder of the afternoon is free explore before we join together for our first team dinner.

Transfer Time: 7 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Sapa Tour & Trek to Tien Sa Waterfall

After breakfast and a quick freshen up, begin your story of Sapa. The first stop is the Sapa Museum where you will see a large display of traditional costumes, handicrafts and tools used by the ethnic minority groups that live within the area. You will also learn about the history of Sapa, its military past and the influence of the French. Next, take a short walk to the day market bustling with vendors selling fruit and vegetables, household goods and clothing.

After visiting the market you will then travel a short distance by car to the village of Cat Cat, to start your two hour trek. Your adventure begins, as your guide takes you off the main path and along a track that clings to the mountainside. Along the way you will see local H’mong villagers going about their daily life, planting rice and tending to their animals. At the halfway point, stop for a snack break at the river’s edge and dip your toes in the refreshingly cool water. Then continue on to Tien Sa waterfall for great photo opportunities.

Trekking Time: 2 hours

Meals: Breakfast 

Day 4: Sapa – Y Ling Ho – Lao Chai - Tavan

This morning you’ll start your trek through the market and leave the busy town behind. After a couple of minutes, you follow a road going downhill to Cat Cat village. You will stop by a waterfall and a hydroelectric station for a while before you trek on a dirt trail through rice paddy terraces. You also will enjoy spectacular scenery while walking along a narrow river. You eventually arrive in Y Linh Ho village of Black Hmong minority, where you can take a rest while you are served lunch nearby the river.

After lunch, you head Muong Hoa valley. You will pass through Lao Chai village of Black Hmong minority and then Tavan village of Giay minority by following a very popular trekking route. You will spend the night in a local house of Giay minority. You will be able to take a walk to enjoy the valley view as well as swim in the river nearby. 

Trekking Time: 5 hours 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Tavan - Seomity

After breakfast, we begin today’s trek, which is mostly uphill until lunchtime.  Don’t forget to look up to take in the beautiful views of the valley! After lunch, the trekking will become easier and the scenery even more beautiful. We pass by the Seomity village of the Black Hmong minority, located near a river on the outskirts of the village. Tonight we stay in a local village, with our porters preparing a delicious meal for us.

Trekking Time: 4.5 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6: Seomity – Den Thang – Ta Trung Ho

The trek today takes you through beautiful rice paddies and over old suspension bridges. You will trek on a small trail sneaking through rainforest. You arrive in Den Thang village of Black Hmong by noon. Here we stop for lunch near the river.

After lunch, the trek will become more difficult, a narrow footpath going up and down, which requires a lot of concentration. We reach Ta Trung Ho village of Red Dao minority where you spend the night in a local house. 

Trekking Time: 4.5 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Ta Trung Ho – Nam Toong – Ban Ho- Sapa- Hanoi

Today is our final day of trekking. You are now at the fringe of the rainforest by the Hoang Lien Son mountain range. Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina with its 3143m, is located in this mountain range. You will start the trek today by ascending to Nam Toong village of Red Dao minority. In the afternoon, before descending to Ban Ho, you can make a stop by a waterfall to refresh. We transfer back to Sapa, making our way to Lao Cai train station from where we board the night train back to Hanoi, which takes about 8 hours.

Trekking Time: 4 hours

Transfer Time: 9 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8: Hanoi – Halong Bay

On arrival in Hanoi, transfer to your hotel for refreshment and breakfast before your relaxing trip to Halong Bay. Leave the noise of the city behind as you travel about four hours to Halong Bay. Hop aboard a small tender boat to arrive at L’Azalee, a beautifully restored traditional wooden junk and explore the jade green waters of Halong Bay over lunch. This afternoon the tender will take you to a secluded part of the bay where the water is perfect for swimming and kayaking around the limestone karsts. You’ll return back to L’Azalee just in time to watch the sunset from the top deck before enjoying the bay’s freshest seafood dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Halong Bay - Hanoi

Wake up refreshed from a good night’s sleep as the boat motors towards Surprise Cave, the biggest in Halong Bay. Board the tender for a short trip to the cave and be amazed - the entry to the cave is deceptively narrow but once through, the cave opens up to a large chamber with impressive limestone formations. Surprise! Then it’s back to the boat and cruise to Halong Port arriving around noon. The remainder of the day is free at your leisure before we meet again for dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Hanoi Full Day Tour

Begin your Story of Hanoi with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Here, you will hear about the man who led Vietnam’s campaign for independence from French colonial rule. Next, visit the imperial citadel, the apex of regional political power for more than a millennium where research and excavation is still underway. After a Vietnamese lunch, head to another 11th-century relic, the Temple of Literature, which was built as an homage to the Chinese scholar Confucius. You will then see the iconic Long Bien Bridge. Constructed across the Red River between 1899 and 1902, when Vietnam was still ruled by the French, it is now jammed with whizzing motorbikes and an occasional passenger train chugging into nearby Long Bien Station.

The tour continues with a 30-minute cycle tour through Hanoi’s bustling  Old  Quarter,  a  place where Hanoians buy everything from noodles to light fixtures to Buddha statues. The quarter’s 36 streets were named for the products that were sold from their shops. Today, vendors on Tin and Bamboo Streets still sell the same wares. After exploring the old quarter’s shady alleyways, sip a strong Vietnamese coffee in a café overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake - an important symbol in Vietnamese folklore. Snap a photograph of the downtown skyline before returning to your hotel at around 4.30pm. Tonight we gather for our final team dinner, celebrating a successful adventure.

Please note: The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is closed everyone afternoon and on Mondays and Fridays

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Depart Hanoi

Today after breakfast our adventure comes to an end. Make your own way to the airport or continue on with your travels.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi

Upon arrival, make your own way to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for you to explore and get settled into our hotel.

Meals: Nil

Day 2: Hanoi - Sapa

Today after breakfast we transfer in a private vehicle to Sapa. On arrival in Sapa, we have lunch and then check in to our hotel. The remainder of the afternoon is free explore before we join together for our first team dinner.

Transfer Time: 7 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Sapa Tour & Trek to Tien Sa Waterfall

After breakfast and a quick freshen up, begin your story of Sapa. The first stop is the Sapa Museum where you will see a large display of traditional costumes, handicrafts and tools used by the ethnic minority groups that live within the area. You will also learn about the history of Sapa, its military past and the influence of the French. Next, take a short walk to the day market bustling with vendors selling fruit and vegetables, household goods and clothing.

After visiting the market you will then travel a short distance by car to the village of Cat Cat, to start your two-hour trek. Your adventure begins, as your guide takes you off the main path and along a track that clings to the mountainside. Along the way you will see local H’mong villagers going about their daily life, planting rice and tending to their animals. At the halfway point, stop for a snack break at the river’s edge and dip your toes in the refreshingly cool water. Then continue on to Tien Sa waterfall for great photo opportunities.

Trekking Time: 2 hours

Meals: Breakfast

Day 4: Sapa – Y Ling Ho – Lao Chai - Tavan

This morning you’ll start your trek through the market and leave the busy town behind. After a couple of minutes, you follow a road going downhill to Cat Cat village. You will stop by a waterfall and a hydroelectric station for a while before you trek on a dirt trail through rice paddy terraces. You also will enjoy spectacular scenery while walking along a narrow river. You eventually arrive in Y Linh Ho village of Black Hmong minority, where you can take a rest while you are served lunch nearby the river.

After lunch, you head to Muong Hoa valley. You will pass through Lao Chai village of Black Hmong minority and then Tavan village of Giay minority by following a very popular trekking route. You will spend the night in a local house of Giay minority. You will be able to take a walk to enjoy the valley view as well as swim in the river nearby. 

Trekking Time: 5 hours 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Tavan - Seomity

After breakfast, we begin today’s trek, which is mostly uphill until lunchtime.  Don’t forget to look up to take in the beautiful views of the valley! After lunch, the trekking will become easier and the scenery even more beautiful. We pass by the Seomity village of the Black Hmong minority, located near a river on the outskirts of the village. Tonight we stay in a local village, with our porters preparing a delicious meal for us.

Trekking Time: 4.5 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6: Seomity – Den Thang – Ta Trung Ho

The trek today takes you through beautiful rice paddies and over old suspension bridges. You will trek on a small trail sneaking through rainforest. You arrive in Den Thang village of Black Hmong by noon. Here we stop for lunch near the river.

After lunch, the trek will become more difficult, a narrow footpath going up and down, which requires a lot of concentration. We reach Ta Trung Ho village of Red Dao minority where you spend the night in a local house. 

Trekking Time: 4.5 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Ta Trung Ho – Nam Toong – Ban Ho- Sapa- Hanoi

Today is our final day of trekking. You are now at the fringe of the rainforest by the Hoang Lien Son mountain range. Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina with its 3143m, is located in this mountain range. You will start the trek today by ascending to Nam Toong village of Red Dao minority. In the afternoon, before descending to Ban Ho, you can make a stop by a waterfall to refresh. We transfer back to Sapa, making our way to Lao Cai train station from where we board the night train back to Hanoi, which takes about 8 hours.

Trekking Time: 4 hours

Transfer Time: 9 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8: Hanoi – Halong Bay

On arrival in Hanoi, transfer to your hotel for refreshment and breakfast before your relaxing trip to Halong Bay. Leave the noise of the city behind as you travel about four hours to Halong Bay. Hop aboard a small tender boat to arrive at L’Azalee, a beautifully restored traditional wooden junk and explore the jade green waters of Halong Bay over lunch. This afternoon the tender will take you to a secluded part of the bay where the water is perfect for swimming and kayaking around the limestone karsts. You’ll return back to L’Azalee just in time to watch the sunset from the top deck before enjoying the bay’s freshest seafood dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Halong Bay - Hanoi

Wake up refreshed from a good night’s sleep as the boat motors towards Surprise Cave, the biggest in Halong Bay. Board the tender for a short trip to the cave and be amazed - the entry to the cave is deceptively narrow but once through, the cave opens up to a large chamber with impressive limestone formations. Surprise! Then it’s back to the boat and cruise to Halong Port arriving around noon. The remainder of the day is free at your leisure before we meet again for dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Hanoi Full Day Tour

Begin your Story of Hanoi with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Here, you will hear about the man who led Vietnam’s campaign for independence from French colonial rule. Next, visit the imperial citadel, the apex of regional political power for more than a millennium where research and excavation is still underway. After a Vietnamese lunch, head to another 11th-century relic, the Temple of Literature, which was built as an homage to the Chinese scholar Confucius. You will then see the iconic Long Bien Bridge. Constructed across the Red River between 1899 and 1902, when Vietnam was still ruled by the French, it is now jammed with whizzing motorbikes and an occasional passenger train chugging into nearby Long Bien Station.

The tour continues with a 30-minute cycle tour through Hanoi’s bustling  Old  Quarter, a place where Hanoians buy everything from noodles to light fixtures to Buddha statues. The quarter’s 36 streets were named for the products that were sold from their shops. Today, vendors on Tin and Bamboo Streets still sell the same wares. After exploring the old quarter’s shady alleyways, sip a strong Vietnamese coffee in a café overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake - an important symbol in Vietnamese folklore. Snap a photograph of the downtown skyline before returning to your hotel at around 4.30pm. Tonight we gather for our final team dinner, celebrating a successful adventure.

Please note: The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is closed everyone afternoon and on Mondays and Fridays

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Depart Hanoi

Today after breakfast our adventure comes to an end. Make your own way to the airport or continue on with your travels.

Meals: Breakfast

Frequently asked questions

Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventure.com.au) or phone (1300 905 188). We’re always here to help!

About the adventure

How challenging is this adventure?

This adventure is ranked 3/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. 

The Vietnam trek is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. You will be well supported on the adventure by the expert guides and the wider team. You can move at your own pace and we take frequent rest breaks.

Who will I be travelling with? 

Our average group size at Inspired Adventures ranges from 10 to 20 people. You can be sure that you have all come together with the shared purpose of making a difference to others and having the adventure of a lifetime.

The group will be led by a local tour guide with expert knowledge of the region. Many groups will also be accompanied by an Inspired Adventures team leader or doctor to support and motivate the team. 

Where applicable, a charity representative may also join the team. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about your chosen charity and their work.

Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?

Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.

What is the general age range of participants?

The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–80+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.

Fitness and training

How do I train for this adventure?

We will provide you with basic information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. We recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.

It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek. As part of your training, we recommend making use of your weekends to complete a full day hike and if possible, an overnight hike. You should aim to walk in hilly terrain for 6-8 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably. Conventional exercise routines which build strength, fitness and stamina, such as aerobics and light weight training can be beneficial, particularly if your fitness level is less than ideal.

Accommodation

What is the accommodation like?

Accommodation on this adventure is twin-share 3 -star hotels. The hotels are good quality, most will have air conditioning and some will even have swimming pools where you can unwind after a long day of travelling. 

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms are available at an additional cost and subject to availability.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.

What to expect

What are the toilets like? 

Most hotels will have modern amenities, with toilet paper provided. While trekking, toilets are likely to be squat-style and you will need to provide your own toilet paper.

What is the food like? 

Vietnam boasts one of the most diverse, tantalizing and healthy gastronomies on the planet. 

The food is a reflection of the country’s diverse geography and history, with influences spanning from France, to its neighbouring countries like China and Cambodia. The majority of Vietnamese dishes feature five fundamental tastes: spicy, salty, sweet, sour and bitter.

Fish sauce: Many Vietnamese dishes are flavoured with fish sauce (nuoc mam), which smells and tastes like anchovies (quite salty and fishy) straight from the bottle, but blends into food very well.

Baguettes and pastries: The French colonials originally introduced these, but they have been localised and remain popular contemporary aspects of Vietnamese cuisine.

Seafood: If you like seafood, you may find heaven in Vietnam. The ultimate seafood experience is travelling to a seaside village or beach resort area to try the local seafood restaurants that often serve shrimp, crab and locally caught fish.

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?

Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. A special meal can always be prepared to meet individual needs specified in advance.

Will I have mobile phone reception? 

The international dialling code for Vietnam is +84.

If you have worldwide coverage, you can bring your own mobile phone and use it to make domestic or international calls. Please check with your mobile service provider prior to departure regarding international roaming and associated costs. Alternatively, you may wish to purchase a local SIM card. Please ensure your phone is unlocked prior to departure. Your local guide can assist with setting up the local SIM card.

Internet is common throughout Vietnam, with email and social media remains the cheapest and easiest way to keep in touch with friends and family while travelling. WiFi will be available in most of your hotels. 

Will I have access to electricity?

Electricity will be available at hotels. Vietnam uses outlet types A, C or G (two flat, three flat or two round-pin plugs), 220V/50Hz.

What do I need to pack? 

You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. 

All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained. Our guides carry a satellite phone to be used if further assistance is required.

How will you manage the risk of COVID-19?

See the COVID-19 section of our website for full details.

Costs and payments

What’s included in the travel cost?

Package inclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details. 

Generally, the travel cost includes: 

  • Twin-share accommodation in 3-star hotels and homestays
  • Transfers as per itinerary
  • Meals as per itinerary
  • Local English-speaking guide
  • Tours and boat cruises as per itinerary

What’s not included in the travel cost?

Package exclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details. 

Generally, the travel cost does not include:

  • Airfares
  • Travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Visas
  • Personal expenses, such as laundry
  • Tips and gratuities

Are the travel costs subject to change?

We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please bear in mind they can change due to group size, currency fluctuations or factors out of our control. If absolutely necessary, Inspired Travel may have to add on an additional supplement fee should the current social distancing measures continue. This fee would be required if our operator needs to add on additional vehicles, equipment and/or staff.

Why do I need to pay a registration fee? 

When you register, you will be required to pay a registration fee to secure your spot on the team. From the minute you register until you return from your adventure, the team at Inspired Adventures will provide you with everything you need - including a tailored fundraising plan, fitness advice and support with your travel preparations. You will receive access to your online adventure portal complete with your own online fundraising page and lots of resources to help you along the way. Your registration fee goes towards our cost of managing the adventure and supporting you on your journey.

How much spending money do I need?

We recommend that you allow roughly AUD$45 (~702,100 VND) per day to cover any meals not included in the trip costs, tips, souvenirs and gifts, bottled water and any additional activities you may wish to participate in. It is possible to travel well on a smaller budget and you can always withdraw cash as required, while travelling.

Is it customary to tip? 

Tipping is customary, but not compulsory in Vietnam, and you are encouraged to tip only an amount you find appropriate. The recommended tipping amount for this adventure is around 1,800,000 VND (~AU$115) per person.

Travel insurance and visas

Do I need to have travel insurance?

Travel insurance is compulsory for international adventures to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

Do I need a visa to travel to Vietnam?

Australian and New Zealand passport holders require a visa for entry into Vietnam. For the most current requirements, refer to the Smartraveller website.

About Vietnam

Is it safe to travel to Vietnam?

While in Vietnam, we advise that you remain aware of your surroundings at all times. Never leave your belongings unattended, always keep an eye or a firm grip on cameras and shoulder bags, and avoid travelling alone, especially at night. Caution should be adopted in larger cities. When staying in hotels, secure all valuables and documents in a safe. These are the same safety precautions we recommend when travelling to any destination.

What weather can I expect?

Spring and Autumn boasts the mildest weather, with balmy temperatures generally ranging from 23°C-32°C. Winter and spring is generally much cooler and drier, while summer and autumn tend to be hot and humid with heavier rainfall. Please check local forecasts in the weeks leading up to your adventure for up-to-date weather information as the seasons can be unpredictable and highly variable week to week.

Can I drink the water in Vietnam?

Do not drink the tap water. Tap water is safe to drink only after it has been boiled.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Vietnam?

ATMs are available throughout Vietnam and issue VND only. Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted.

About the adventure

How challenging is this adventure?

This adventure is ranked 3/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. 

The Vietnam trek is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. You will be well supported on the adventure by the expert guides and the wider team. You can move at your own pace and we take frequent rest breaks.

Who will I be travelling with? 

Our average group size at Inspired Adventures ranges from 10 to 20 people. You can be sure that you have all come together with the shared purpose of making a difference to others and having the adventure of a lifetime.

The group will be led by a local tour guide with expert knowledge of the region. Many groups will also be accompanied by an Inspired Adventures team leader or doctor to support and motivate the team. 

Where applicable, a charity representative may also join the team. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about your chosen charity and their work.

Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?

Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.

What is the general age range of participants?

The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–80+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.

Fitness and training

How do I train for this adventure?

We will provide you with basic information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. We recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.

It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek. As part of your training, we recommend making use of your weekends to complete a full day hike and if possible, an overnight hike. You should aim to walk in hilly terrain for 6-8 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably. Conventional exercise routines which build strength, fitness and stamina, such as aerobics and light weight training can be beneficial, particularly if your fitness level is less than ideal.

Accommodation

What is the accommodation like?

Accommodation on this adventure is twin-share 3 -star hotels. The hotels are good quality, most will have air conditioning and some will even have swimming pools where you can unwind after a long day of travelling. 

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms are available at an additional cost and subject to availability.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.

What to expect

What are the toilets like? 

Most hotels will have modern amenities, with toilet paper provided. While trekking, toilets are likely to be squat-style and you will need to provide your own toilet paper.

What is the food like? 

Vietnam boasts one of the most diverse, tantalizing and healthy gastronomies on the planet. 

The food is a reflection of the country’s diverse geography and history, with influences spanning from France, to its neighbouring countries like China and Cambodia. The majority of Vietnamese dishes feature five fundamental tastes: spicy, salty, sweet, sour and bitter.

Fish sauce: Many Vietnamese dishes are flavoured with fish sauce (nuoc mam), which smells and tastes like anchovies (quite salty and fishy) straight from the bottle, but blends into food very well.

Baguettes and pastries: The French colonials originally introduced these, but they have been localised and remain popular contemporary aspects of Vietnamese cuisine.

Seafood: If you like seafood, you may find heaven in Vietnam. The ultimate seafood experience is travelling to a seaside village or beach resort area to try the local seafood restaurants that often serve shrimp, crab and locally caught fish.

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?

Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. A special meal can always be prepared to meet individual needs specified in advance.

Will I have mobile phone reception? 

The international dialling code for Vietnam is +84.

If you have worldwide coverage, you can bring your own mobile phone and use it to make domestic or international calls. Please check with your mobile service provider prior to departure regarding international roaming and associated costs. Alternatively, you may wish to purchase a local SIM card. Please ensure your phone is unlocked prior to departure. Your local guide can assist with setting up the local SIM card.

Internet is common throughout Vietnam, with email and social media remains the cheapest and easiest way to keep in touch with friends and family while travelling. WiFi will be available in most of your hotels. 

Will I have access to electricity?

Electricity will be available at hotels. Vietnam uses outlet types A, C or G (two flat, three flat or two round-pin plugs), 220V/50Hz.

What do I need to pack? 

You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. 

All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained. Our guides carry a satellite phone to be used if further assistance is required.

How will you manage the risk of COVID-19?

See the COVID-19 section of our website for full details.

Costs and payments

What’s included in the travel cost?

Package inclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details. 

Generally, the travel cost includes: 

  • Twin-share accommodation in 3-star hotels and homestays
  • Transfers as per itinerary
  • Meals as per itinerary
  • Local English-speaking guide
  • Tours and boat cruises as per itinerary

What’s not included in the travel cost?

Package exclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details. 

Generally, the travel cost does not include:

  • Airfares
  • Travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Visas
  • Personal expenses, such as laundry
  • Tips and gratuities

Are the travel costs subject to change?

We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please bear in mind they can change due to group size, currency fluctuations or factors out of our control. If absolutely necessary, Inspired Travel may have to add on an additional supplement fee should the current social distancing measures continue. This fee would be required if our operator needs to add on additional vehicles, equipment and/or staff.

Why do I need to pay a registration fee? 

When you register, you will be required to pay a registration fee to secure your spot on the team. From the minute you register until you return from your adventure, the team at Inspired Adventures will provide you with everything you need - including a tailored fundraising plan, fitness advice and support with your travel preparations. You will receive access to your online adventure portal complete with your own online fundraising page and lots of resources to help you along the way. Your registration fee goes towards our cost of managing the adventure and supporting you on your journey.

How much spending money do I need?

We recommend that you allow roughly AUD$45 (~702,100 VND) per day to cover any meals not included in the trip costs, tips, souvenirs and gifts, bottled water and any additional activities you may wish to participate in. It is possible to travel well on a smaller budget and you can always withdraw cash as required, while travelling.

Is it customary to tip? 

Tipping is customary, but not compulsory in Vietnam, and you are encouraged to tip only an amount you find appropriate. The recommended tipping amount for this adventure is around 1,800,000 VND (~AU$115) per person.

Travel insurance and visas

Do I need to have travel insurance?

Travel insurance is compulsory for international adventures to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

Do I need a visa to travel to Vietnam?

Australian and New Zealand passport holders require a visa for entry into Vietnam. For the most current requirements, refer to the Smartraveller website.

About Vietnam

Is it safe to travel to Vietnam?

While in Vietnam, we advise that you remain aware of your surroundings at all times. Never leave your belongings unattended, always keep an eye or a firm grip on cameras and shoulder bags, and avoid travelling alone, especially at night. Caution should be adopted in larger cities. When staying in hotels, secure all valuables and documents in a safe. These are the same safety precautions we recommend when travelling to any destination.

What weather can I expect?

Spring and Autumn boasts the mildest weather, with balmy temperatures generally ranging from 23°C-32°C. Winter and spring is generally much cooler and drier, while summer and autumn tend to be hot and humid with heavier rainfall. Please check local forecasts in the weeks leading up to your adventure for up-to-date weather information as the seasons can be unpredictable and highly variable week to week.

Can I drink the water in Vietnam?

Do not drink the tap water. Tap water is safe to drink only after it has been boiled.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Vietnam?

ATMs are available throughout Vietnam and issue VND only. Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted.

All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.

Reviews

Past adventurers rated their overall experience on the Vietnam trek as 4.69 out of 5

★★★★★


“It was a privilege to share in this adventure and learn so much about Vietnam, its history and culture.”

Gillian Gilbert

CBM Stride for Sight 2017

★★★★★

 

“Wonderful, action-packed trip. Feel and experience the heart and soul of Vietnam.”

Joanne Campbell

ChildFund NZ Vietnam Challenge 2016

★ ★ ★ ★ ★


“Vietnam was a blast. Loved the people, the food and making a difference for UN Women!”

Margaret Haseltine

UN Women Ride for Rights 2017
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Responsible Travel

Caring for our adventurers, the communities we visit and the wellbeing of the planet is the heart of everything we do. This adventure is no exception.
Meaningful connections: Hear from Aranda Elders who will tell us about the history of the area.
Environment: We offset the emissions from this trip through carbon credit programs in partnership with Carbon Neutral. 
Treading lightly: Trekking is a great, low-impact way to explore.
Small group travel: Our teams consist of a maximum of 25 people. Better for you, and better for the planet.
Responsible business: We’re a certified B-Corp, committed to using business as a force for good

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We’re a certified B Corp, committed to using business as a force for good.