Saigon, Mekong & Da Lat Discovery 7 Days 6 Nights

OVERVIEW

Embark on a captivating 7-day journey through southern Vietnam, exploring the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh, the lush Mekong Delta, and the tranquil highlands of Da Lat. Discover Ho Chi Minh City's rich history with visits to iconic landmarks such as the War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the historic Reunification Palace. Step back in time at the renowned Cu Chi Tunnels, a fascinating remnant of the Vietnam War. Cruise along the winding waterways of the Mekong Delta, where you'll experience local life and witness the bustling activity of the Cai Rang floating market. Continue your adventure to the cool, picturesque town of Da Lat, nestled in the Central Highlands. Enjoy panoramic views from Lang Biang Mountain, stroll through vibrant flower gardens, visit lush tea plantations, and find peace at the tranquil Truc Lam Pagoda. This tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.

ITINERARY

DAY 1    ARRIVAL INTO HO CHI MINH CITY             

Upon arrival into Ho chi Minh city airport, you will be picked up by our driver and transferred to your hotel. This day is free at leisure until 6pm you will be picked up for a cruise dinner on Saigon river. You will enjoy the set menu dinner onboard and cruise along the river taking in the beautiful city by night before being transferred back to your hotel. 

DAY 2   HO CHI MINH    

Your Travelmates guide will meet you at 8am for a morning walking tour of Saigon’s famous and historic city landmarks. The tour will take you through the heart of the city along Dong Khoi street, past the Rex Hotel, Municipal Theatre and Notre Dame Cathedral. Your local guide will share with you interesting stories about this dynamic and history-rich city being the heart and soul of the southern Vietnam. 

Continue on to the site of the former US Embassy then tour inside the impressive Re-Unification Palace and War Remnants Museum for an insight of the Vietnam’s rich history. 

This afternoon you will take a journey west to see Cu Chi tunnel network which stretches over 250km and extends to three levels underground providing you with remarkable insight into the hardships, courage, determination and terror of a guerrilla war.

On arrival you will be guided through the famous tunnels used by the communist guerrillas during the Vietnam War. Explore the tunnel site, which includes weapon and booby trap exhibitions, navigating authentic Viet Cong tunnel, visiting different underground bunkers (kitchens, meeting rooms, ammunitions etc.), a firing range and much more. Try the local cassava root that sustained Viet Cong fighters for years.

DAY 3    HO CHI MINH - CAI BE - CAN THO             

This morning travel south into the heart of the Mekong Delta. Upon arrival, step aboard an  elegant motor boat for a cruise along the gentle tributaries of the Mekong River, indulging in fresh local fruits as the tropical breeze caresses your skin. Marvel at the bustling riverside scenes, where rice-related activities unfold along the banks and local boats ply their trade. Cross the mighty Mekong River, disembark briefly for a leisurely bicycle ride along tranquil village lanes shaded by verdant orchards. Immerse yourself in the serenity of rural life, finding solace in the simple pleasures that abound. Along the way, visit local families skilled in crafting traditional products such as rice wine, bamboo handicrafts, and unique items made from natural materials like water hyacinth and banana ropes. After your cycling adventure, savor a delightful meal hosted by a local family, featuring authentic Mekong Delta specialties that showcase the region's rich culinary heritage. Following lunch, continue your exploration with a leisurely sampan ride through the island's picturesque canals, revealing hidden gems and tranquil waterways. Conclude your journey with a short cruise back to Cai Be pier for a transfer to Can Tho.

Lunch is included.

DAY 4    CAN THO TO HO CHI MINH CITY AIRPORT TO DALAT

Rise early this morning and board your boat for a visit to the fascinating floating market at Cai Rang. Return to your hotel for check out and drive to Ho Chi Minh city airport for your flight to Dalat. Flight Saigon to Dalat is included.

DAY 5 - DALAT EXPLORATION

Begin your adventure with a convenient 8:00 AM pick-up from your hotel in Dalat for a full day of exploration. Our first stop is the majestic Langbiang Mountain, the highest peak in the region and a favorite among nature lovers and thrill seekers. At the mountain’s base, you can choose to hike to the summit or take a scenic jeep ride (optional, with an additional fee). From the top, enjoy sweeping panoramic views of valleys, forests, and the surrounding countryside, while discovering the local legends tied to this iconic mountain.

Next, we’ll journey to the picturesque Datanla Waterfall, nestled in a lush forest setting. You can reach the falls with a peaceful walk or opt for an exhilarating ride on the alpine coaster (ticket required). Take in the serene atmosphere, marvel at the cascading waters, and capture memorable photos on the quaint wooden bridges.

Around midday, we’ll pause for a delicious Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant, offering a chance to relax and refuel.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit the unique and imaginative Crazy House (Hang Nga Guesthouse). Designed by architect Dang Viet Nga, this surreal structure blends art and nature in a whimsical, dreamlike form. Wander through winding staircases, curious rooms, and tree-like hallways that feel straight out of a fairytale.

After a day filled with nature, culture, and creativity, we’ll return to your hotel by 5:00 PM.

DAY 6 - HIGHLIGHTS OF DALAT

8:00 AM You will be picked up at your hotel for a scenic journey through some of Dalat’s most captivating countryside attractions. Our first stop is the Cau Dat Green Tea Hill, a tranquil expanse of rolling tea plantations where you can breathe in the crisp mountain air and admire the expansive green landscape. As a bonus, you’ll also see the towering wind electricity turbines, a symbol of the region’s shift toward sustainable energy.

Next, we’ll visit a unique persimmon farm that uses advanced Japanese technology to dry persimmons in the traditional hanging style. Learn about the meticulous drying process and enjoy the charming view of rows of orange persimmons swaying in the breeze.

Our journey continues to a high-tech strawberry farm, where you’ll discover how strawberries are cultivated using innovative agricultural methods. You’ll even have the chance to pick your own strawberries and savor their fresh, sweet flavor right on the spot.

We’ll then explore the vibrant and eclectic Mama Dala Complex, a creative space featuring over 30 imaginative photo spots such as the Tiktak clock, ancient ferns, and the whimsical bubble house. It’s the perfect place to snap some fun and unforgettable photos.

Next, take a relaxing coffee break at the scenic Me Linh Coffee Garden, known for its famous weasel coffee—a delicacy made from beans that have passed through the digestive system of a weasel, creating a distinctive and aromatic brew. Please note that this coffee is not included in the tour price.

Season permitting, we’ll also visit blooming fields of buckwheat, cosmos, or sunflowers, where you can immerse yourself in vibrant colors and capture stunning nature photos.

Our final stop is the impressive Thuy Thuan Coffee Factory, one of the largest in Dalat. Learn about the full coffee-making process, from bean to brew, and gain insight into the deep-rooted coffee culture of the region.

We’ll return to your hotel around 5:00 PM, wrapping up a day filled with natural beauty, agricultural innovation, and unforgettable sights.

DAY 7 - DEPART  DALAT

Today, our driver will transfer you to Lien Khuong airport for your onward journey. (Flight is not included).

IMPORTANT NOTES: 

Instant Confirmation is available for requests outside 15 days in low season and 30 days in peak season.

The price featured on this page is a per person price in USD, applicable for a group of 4 travellers. 

Single Supplement is available on request

Please contact sales@travelmates.asia for other special requests or a customised itinerary. 

Cancellations for accommodation, flight, trains and cruises will be specific as suppliers' terms and conditions, and for touring cancellations within 7 days or no show will incur a 100% cancellation fee.

INCLUSIONS: 

• 6 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast;
• Welcome drink, 06 breakfasts, 03 lunches; 
• Drinking water (two 500 ml bottles for a half day and three bottles for a full day);
• Transport in air-conditioned vehicles;
• Boat trip;
• Entrance fees;
• Experienced English-speaking guide;
• Private touring;
• Flight from Saigon and Dalat (economy class one way).

EXCLUSIONS

Visa, International flights, personal expenses, meals other than stated in the itinerary, or tips for local guide and driver  (5USD per person per day for group size under 5 persons, or 3USD per person for larger group size).

PRICING 

Prices vary by travel date, group size, and customization. Below prices are based on three star accommodation, per person, two persons sharing a room.