vietnam
north to South
From the French-colonial architecture of Hanoi to the dramatic scenery of Lan Ha Bay; from the rich history of Hoi An to the sleepy fishing villages outside of Hue, you’ll explore a vibrant culture on your journey through Northern & Southern Vietnam.
You’ll spend time exploring by bike and on foot, allowing you to experience the authentic countryside and coast. You’ll discover the hospitality and friendly smiles of the locals. You’ll ride on quiet dirt roads that wind through pretty villages, you’ll hike on trails past waterfalls & lush vegetation, all the while learning from your local guides about the history, culture and cuisine of the area.
You’ll eat fresh, delicious food along the way through fun city culinary tours and learn about the history of Vietnam from locals. In everything that you do while you’re here, you’ll inevitably depart with a deep connection to this place and these people.
“Exceeded expectations. Both the quality of the planning and the trip itself.”
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
When to go: October - January
Start/End Airport: Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh CIty
Minimum recommended length: 15 days / 14 nights
Average Mileage: 4 - 7.5 miles/day for hiking (options to shorten or lengthen)
Pre- or post-trip ideas: Thailand, Laos, Cambodia
Hike the Sapa in Northern Vietnam, home to over 20 ethnic minorities with postcard-perfect landscapes
Cruise Lan Ha bay, Ha Long Bay’s less-travelled sister, and experience its spectacular isolated beaches and majestic karst rock formations.
Discover Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An & Ho Chi Minh City
Trek in Bach Ma National Park
Bike through remote countryside villages
Enjoy delicious local cuisine like pho, cha ca, banh xeo, cao lau and & che
Visit a local orphanage and give back to the community
Option to do self-guided, but ideal itinerary includes some guided activities
Enjoy a customized itinerary tailored to your preferred activity level, budget, accommodation preferences, interests & schedule
TRIP DETAILS
All of our itineraries are handcrafted and completely customizable to your preferred travel dates, budget, accommodation preferences and activity level.
From the initial proposal, we’ll work with you to refine your itinerary until it’s just right. On your trip, we'll provide you with everything you need to enjoy a local, authentic Pathways experience and the liberty to explore at your own pace.
To request a personalized proposal, please complete the form below
and we’ll contact you to chat about next steps.
“Our trip was absolutely perfect. Knowing that you were watching out for us with the calls, updates, maps, etc. is boutique travel at its best. You didn’t know us before arranging this trip for us (and we really are seasoned travelers) which in hindsight tells me how well you listen and do your homework. Every hotel was just perfect. The walks and views will be in our hearts forever.”
ACCOMMODATIONS
Where you stay on your Pathways trips will only enhance your experience. We'll work with you to select beautiful, authentic boutique lodging that will allow you to even more deeply connect with the local culture and cuisine of the place you're visiting.
The lodgings we choose are locally or family owned, making your stay welcoming, unique and personal - the best spots to end an active day with relaxation, delicious food & wine, gracious hospitality and fun.
Some favorite accommodations:
Topas Ecolodge in Sapa
Pilgrimmage Village Inn in Hue
Mai House in Ho Chi Minh City