Hanoi to Mai Chau to Hue
Vietnam
March 13 - 24, 2026
Vietnam Adventure
Pre-Trip: Ho Chi Min City
Post-Trip: Cambodia
A Jo Ann Taylor Signature Adventure
Vietnam:
Culture | Cuisine | Connection | Discovery
12-Day/11-Night Signature Walking Adventure Through the Heart of Northern and Central Vietnam
from $5,998 per person, double occupancy
March 13 - 24, 2026
Pre-trip: Ho Chi Minh City
Post-trip: Cambodia
From the tangled alleys of Hanoi to the still waters of Lan Ha Bay and the storied courtyards of Hue, this is Vietnam as few experience it—on foot, through the eyes of locals, and at the pace of real connection.
This adventure is designed for travelers who crave cultural depth, immersive storytelling, and the joy of walking in places that are as soulful as they are scenic. Every step is layered with history, flavor, and human connection.
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INSPIRATION
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HANOI STREET FOOD TOUR - Get your tastebuds tingling as your guide seeks out the Old Quarter’s best street food for you to try, from popular dishes to lesser-known delights.
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THE GARDEN HOUSES OF HUE - Hue’s garden houses are illustrious examples of grand dynasties past. Visit homes and their owners, hear their stories, and admire their decorative houses and peaceful courtyards. The experience offers a rare and intimate insight into the rapidly disappearing world in modern-day Vietnam.
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ESCAPE the city and head deep into the lush, serene valleys of Mai Chau. Waterfalls, limestone peaks, and traditional villages await.
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YLANG JUNK BOAT - Enjoy a deeper exploration of the magnificent karst scenery and remote villages in less-visited Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island.​
Come Walk In Vietnam With Us!
Hosted by Walking Connection Founders,
Jo Ann & Gene Taylor
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Adventure to North & Central Vietnam - 12-Days/11-Nights
March 13 - 24, 2026
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Pre-trip: Ho Chi Minh City - 4-Days/3-Nights
Post-trip: Cambodia 4-Days/3-Nights
Priced from:
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from $5,998 per person, double occupancy
(Depending on cabin category chosen. Limited Single Occ. is available.)
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$1500 Deposit Due with Registration.
Pre- and post-trip extension prices to be determined by the number of guests participating. To be confirmed with guest registration
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​Highlights and Inclusions:
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​A unique itinerary created by Jo Ann Taylor & our team in Vietnam.
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Hosted by WC co-founders Gene & Jo Ann Taylor.
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Professional English-speaking Interpretive resident guides.
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12-Days/11-Nights as indicated by the final itinerary.
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All tour transfers and meals as indicated in the final itinerary.
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Entry into all site visits as indicated in the final itinerary.
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Airport private transfer for arrivals on March 13. (Or, Pre-tour Extension).
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Detailed Know Before You Go information.
Payments, Cancellation Policy, Trip Minimums, Trip Grading for Walks, and recommended footwear and gear are linked below. Click "Get Details."
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Every detail reflects the heart of Vietnamese hospitality, carefully curated by Jo Ann Taylor to create an experience that’s authentic, immersive, and true to place—without compromise.
A Signature Adventure
Immerse yourself in the heart and soul of Vietnam. Jo Ann curated this experience that provides an authentic glimpse into the lives, traditions, and cultures of the Northern region of Vietnam. It's not just about seeing; it's about truly understanding.
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Experience Vietnam walking side-by-side with the owners of Walking Connection. As hosts, we'll ensure that every detail is meticulously arranged and presented, allowing you to focus on the joy of exploration.
Vietnam (Hanoi to Hue)
FOR THE LOVE OF FOOD & ART - Walking tour of ‘Train Street’ and the nearby neighborhoods built along the railway tracks. Visit Phung Hung Street, home to vibrant mural art, and explore the Long Bien Bridge area and the banks of the Red River. End your visit with a tasting of banh cuon, one of Hanoi’s most beloved dishes.
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A WALK THROUGH HISTORY & CULTURE - Wander the city’s hidden alleyways -- Start with early Tai Chi near West Lake, followed by a walk to Tran Quoc Pagoda -- Our trail takes us through scenic villages, farmlands, bamboo forests, and rice paddies - A panoramic view of the karsts and hike to the Hang Mua viewpoint to visit the Bai Dinh complex and explore Thien Ha Caves by boat. Learn about the cultural legacy of Hue’s garden houses.​​​​
ITINERARY
DAY 1 - Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam. Arrival Meet & Greet - Immigration Fast Track. [D]
DAY 2 - Walking tour of ‘Train Street’ & 'Street Foodie' Tour. [B,L,D]
DAY 3 - Tai Chi, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Women's Museum, and/or explore the Old Quarter at your leisure. [B,L]
Day 4 - Transfer through the classic mountain views to Mai Chau. In this ethnic region dominated by the Ban Lac People, take in the picturesque rice fields and explore villages by foot. [B]
Day 5 - Pu Luong Nature Reserve - Trek through traditional villages, gently sloping terraced rice fields & bamboo forests. [B,L]
Day 6 - Travel mountain roads from Mai Chau to Ninh Binh. We'll walk through scenic landscapes of rice paddies and limestone hills and finish the day with a sampan boat ride through the Van Long Nature Reserve. [B,L]
Day 7 - Explore Ninh Binh from the viewpoint at Hang Mua, to the Bich Dong Pagoda, to the remarkable Thien Ha cave. [B,L]
Days 8 & 9 - Ylang Junk Boat (2 nights) - This is a luxurious way to explore the less-visited Lan Ha Bay. The boat has a wellness spa & gourmet dining. Explore Viet Hai Village on Cat Ba Island & kayak among limestone cliffs. Unwind on the terrace deck or in the Jacuzzi pool. [B,L,D Daily] Note: Price may vary depending upon the Cruise Category selected.)
Day 10 - Relaxing morning, then transfer to Hanoi Airport for our short flight to Hue. (Business Class). [B,D]
Day 11 & 12 - Hue - This morning, visit the Gardens of Hue - elegant examples of past grand dynasties & 'Essential Hue' - the Perfume River, the Imperial Citadel and the Thien Mu Pagoda. [B,L,D]
Day 12 - Afternoon transfer to Hue Airport for our flight to Cambodia - or home if you must! [B]
