Walking Holidays, Guided and Self-Guided Walks Abroad, from Walks Worldwide Walking and Hiking Holidays in Europe and Worldwide

Vietnam - Saigon and Central Highland Encounter

16 days Guided Groups, Fixed Departures or Daily Seasonal Departures, Minimum 2 People

Vietnam personifies the complete disparity between the Orient and the West. This trip has been put together by experienced trekkers who have travelled the country extensively, know it well and are passionate about its people, its varied culture and the walking possibilities in the stunningly beautiful scenery.
This tour displays the diversity of the country's beautiful scenery, people and culture. It takes you to the hills and mountains, plantations and farmlands, valleys and rivers of the Central Highlands, an area of jungle, pine forest and coffee plantations nestled between a sprinkling of farms. Trekking from the hill town of Dalat, you will walk through bamboo outcrops, alongside refreshing rivers, camp by tranquil lakes and climb up on to the slopes of lofty Langbian Mountain (2160 metres) for panoramic views of the surrounding lush vegetation. You will have many opportunities to enjoy spending time with the local hill tribes and perhaps witness a colourful evening of song and dance with tribal costumes. The trek ends at a very small minority village at the bottom of Elephant Mountain before returning to Dalat. You will also have the chance to experience Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), a city steeped in history, which retains a vibrant oriental life style worlds apart from a modern western city.
Days 1 to 3. Outbound
Fly overnight to Saigon and transfer to your hotel. There will be a full day guided tour of this lively city and time in the evenings to explore its fascinating streets.
Days 4 to 6. Dalat Trekking
A 300km drive takes you up into the Central Highlands and Dalat where you commence your journey into the jungle, walking through pine forests and tea plantations. Chat to the local coffee farmers and enjoy superb open riverside walking.
Days 7 to 10. Langbian Trekking
From a small village of Chil Hill Tribe people follow open ridges with some spectacular orchids down to the Langbian River and Tiger Falls. Visit local flower farms and meet the Lat Hill Tribe people in their village, perhaps in their traditional costumes. A steep climb brings you to the top of the highest peak in the area, Langbian Mountain (2160 metres) offering fantastic 360-degree views. Descend to a beautiful camp spot next to Ankroet River.
Days 11 to 13. Village Trekking and Pinhatt Mountain
A beautiful walk following the river, bushwhacking through bamboo forests to Dangit and Ta Nung villages and share a cup of 'tra' tea with the local Chil and Lat people as they go about their daily life. Spend a night in one of these simple, friendly villages before taking a boat across Tuyen Lam Lake to a superb campsite offering ample opportunities for swimming. Climb Pinhatt Mountain and descend to the base of Elephant Mountain for a last night with the minority people.
Days 14 to 16. Return to Saigon
Enjoy a morning of trekking in the jungle and farmland with fantastic views before returning to Dalat and Saigon. One last evening to experience this vibrant and cultural hotspot before flying back overnight to the UK.
OPTIONAL EXTENSION Days 15 to 18. Mekong Delta
Highly recommended is a visit to this tropical and intriguing region. Spend two days visiting the islands, gardens, floating markets and villages of the Mekong, where people literally live and work on the river, from their homes built on stilts. You will be accommodated and entertained in a local house, gaining an unrivalled insight into the local lifestyle, visiting villages where few westerners go. Return to Saigon on the evening of day 16 and depart the following day to fly overnight to the UK.
Vietnam Boat People

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  • Tour grade: C
  • Cost per person: £1,695 fixed departures.
    From £1,750 open-dated.
    £195 for Mekong Extension.
  • Single supplement: £195.
  • CO2 Offset cost : £20.06.
  • What is included: Flights, accommodation, transfers, permits, guides, cooks, porters, most meals.
  • Accommodation: Hotels, camping.
  • Departure dates:
    Thursday, 14 February 2008.
    Thursday, 6 November 2008.
    Thursday, 12 February 2009
    Open-dated for 2 passengers.