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Premium: Coast to Caves Adventure in Vietnam (2026 Edition)

An incredible journey through Vietnam's natural wonders and hidden gems, navigating lush jungles, subterranean worlds and tropical coastline

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9nights
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Why you'll love it

  1. Cruise Lan Ha Bay and the Cat Ba archipelago on a traditional Vietnamese sailboat, with kayaking, cycling and SUP to soak up the unbelievable scenery

  2. Head south to the otherworldly Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park for jungle hikes, epic caves, wild swims and a night under the stars

  3. Unwind in handpicked accommodation, and taste your way through Vietnam with regional specialities, local coffee, an Asian barbecue and a floating seafood feast

  4. Looking for next year's dates? Head over to the 2027 edition (opens in new tab) of this adventure

What's Included?

  • Premium Accommodation
  • Your Standout Stay
  • MealsAll breakfasts, 6 lunches and all dinners – including a Vietnamese-style barbecue and a seafood feast upon a floating raft
  • Activities & Certified Guides
  • Transfers & PorterageAirport transfers and everything in between, plus porterage of your camping equipment
  • Maximum group size: 10

Part of our Premium Collection

Adventure,
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Wild days, seriously good stays. Think handpicked accommodation - from boutique gems to 4-5 star - with at least one Standout Stay and little touches of comfort along the way.

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Itinerary

  1. Day 1

    Welcome to Hanoi

    Hotel
    Twin share
    Dinner included
    Show Day 1 detail

    Your host meets you at the airport and whisks you into the heart of one of Southeast Asia's most electric cities. Hanoi doesn't ease you in gently — scooters swarm past centuries-old shophouses, street vendors ladle steaming broth from roadside carts, and the Old Quarter pulses with a chaos that somehow feels completely alive. Depending on your arrival time, you might find yourself perched on a plastic stool with a cold bia hơi in hand, or simply soaking it all in from your boutique hotel before the city fully reveals itself. Either way, the evening brings the group together over a welcome dinner — classic Vietnamese flavours, introductions, and the first conversations of what lies ahead.

    Day 2

    Explore Hanoi and head to the coast

    Driving
    2hrs
    Boat Ride
    5hrs
    Kayaking
    1.5hrs
    Boutique Junk Boat
    Twin share
    All meals included
    Show Day 2 detail

    Head out with your guide this morning to explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter, watching the city wake and build to its daily hustle and bustle, before stopping for a classic breakfast of pho noodles and egg coffee. Then it’s time to bid the capital farewell and head for the coast, driving to Tuan Chau, an island on the southwest side of the legendary Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Step aboard your floating home for the night, a hand-crafted junk-style boat that blends traditional character with modern comforts. As the sails catch the breeze, you’ll drift into a dreamscape of emerald water, scattered islands and sheer limestone cliffs. Tuck into a freshly prepared seafood lunch on deck, then set out to explore a hidden cave, hopping into a kayak to paddle through calm waters surrounded by limestone cliffs. The late afternoon is yours to relax on deck or plunge into the bay for a swim. As the sun sets, enjoy a candlelit seafood dinner before falling asleep in your cosy cabin to the gentle sounds of the water.

    Day 3

    Kayak, cycle, SUP and cruise to Cat Ba Island

    Cycling
    1hr
    Stand Up Paddleboarding
    1hr
    Boat Ride
    3hrs
    Hotel
    Twin share
    All meals included
    Show Day 3 detail

    Wake up on the boat and take in the soft morning light from the deck, enjoy breakfast as you cruise on to Viet Hai Village. Here you’ll disembark for a leisurely bike ride through the countryside, arriving at a local homestay for lunch with a spread of home-cooked Vietnamese dishes. In the afternoon, relax on deck as the boat winds through the bay, stopping at a quiet spot for stand-up paddleboarding and swimming. After an action-packed day, you’ll reach Cat Ba Island, the largest in the Cat Ba archipelago and part of the UNESCO-listed Lan Ha and Halong Bays. Check into your hotel, perhaps heading up to the sky bar for sunset views, before rounding off the evening with a seafood dinner on a floating raft.

    Day 4

    Journey from Cat Ba to Phong Nha

    Hiking
    2.5hrs · 11km · 320m up · 320m down
    Driving
    3hrs
    Train Ride
    10hrs
    Train Carriage
    Multi share
    All meals included
    Show Day 4 detail

    Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out and setting off on a hike to Butterfly Valley, following quiet trails through the pine forest on Cat Ba Island. The path climbs gently to 265 metres, opening up views over the forested cliffs and turquoise waters, before descending into the heart of Cat Ba National Park and the impressive Trung Trang Cave, with its striking stalactites and echoing chambers. In the afternoon, bid farewell to Cat Ba and drive back to Hanoi, arriving at the station for your evening sleeper train south. Travelling by night train is a quintessential Southeast Asian experience. Settle into your four-berth cabin with fellow members from your group and watch the city lights fade into the countryside, before drifting off to sleep.

    Day 5

    Explore the majestic Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park

    Kayaking
    3hrs
    Forest Villa
    Twin share
    Breakfast and dinner included
    Show Day 5 detail

    Wake up in your carriage this morning as the train rolls into Dong Hoi station. From here, head to Chay Lap, a farmstay in a beautiful location, for breakfast. Next up this morning, you'll head out onto the Son River for a kayaking adventure, paddling towards the limestone mountains of the national park. Drift past Me and Chay villages and striking rock formations, with the chance to step ashore and explore along the way. Back on dry land, your host will transfer you to your next base and Standout Stay of the trip, the Blue Diamond Retreat, tucked away in a gorgeous spot within Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park. Enjoy some downtime to recharge and take in the surroundings before dinner. As dusk falls, there's a chance for some extra paddling with some torchlit night kayaking on the stretch of river right outside.

    Day 6

    Deeper into the park and the Ma Da Valley

    Hiking
    3hrs · 9km · 175m up · 200m down
    Caving
    2hrs
    Wild Swimming
    1hr
    Wild camping
    Twin tent
    All meals included
    Show Day 6 detail

    The wildest section of the trip begins this morning as you head into the heart of Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park, a world of jungle, cliffs, caves and underground rivers. Trek through the forest to reach Elephant Cave, a cavern 60m high and 300m deep. By torchlight, you’ll explore its ancient rock formations before returning to daylight and continuing your hike through the jungle, crossing rivers and descending into the Ma Da Valley. Arriving at Ma Da Lake, cool off with a refreshing swim in its clear blue waters while your guides set up camp on the sandy bank. As night falls, tuck into a barbecue dinner and settle into your tent beneath the stars, with the sounds of the jungle all around.

    Day 7

    Exploring the Ma Da Caves

    Hiking
    3hrs · 8km · 15m up · 5m down
    Swimming
    1hr
    Hotel
    Twin share
    All meals included
    Show Day 7 detail

    Wake up with a morning swim, the lake and jungle all to yourself. After breakfast at camp, head back onto the trail, cutting through dense foliage and watercourses until you reach a bend in the river that marks the scramble up limestone rocks to Tra Ang Cave. Take the plunge and swim its 600m passage, then explore further on foot. Pause for lunch in this remote wilderness before hiking the Tra Ang River Trail back towards civilisation. After your days in the national park, return to Blue Diamond for hot showers and a Vietnamese-style barbecue dinner. Enjoy a relaxed evening here, recharging after an unforgettable couple of days.

    Day 8

    Cycling along riverside roads

    Cycling
    2hrs · 12km · 150m up · 150m down
    Driving
    3.5hrs
    Boutique Hotel
    Twin share
    All meals included
    Show Day 8 detail

    Head out on two wheels today for a final dose of adventure in this part of Vietnam, cycling through the countryside. You’ll ride past sleepy villages, browse a local market and follow quiet riverside roads before stopping for lunch at a favourite local spot. After the ride, settle in for a road trip to the coastline of Thach Ha District and check into your beachside resort. The afternoon is yours to rest and relax, swim in the sea, stretch out on the sand, and perhaps enjoy a sundowner before dinner as the sun sinks below the horizon.

  9. Day 9

    Morning at the beach and road trip back to Hanoi

    Driving
    5.5hrs
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast and dinner included
    Show Day 9 detail

    Enjoy a slow morning at your beachfront hotel, sip Vietnamese coffee, take a stroll along the sand or squeeze in one last swim. After breakfast, settle in for the journey back to Hanoi. Your host will make scenic stops along the way to stretch your legs, with lunch en route. Arriving back in the capital by early evening, you’ll return to the boutique hotel from your first night. Gather this evening with your guides and fellow adventurers for a farewell dinner, celebrating the journey you’ve shared.

  10. Day 10

    The adventure ends

    Breakfast included
    Show Day 10 detail

    After breakfast, you'll say final goodbyes to your host as you're transferred to the airport in time for your flight home.

Where You'll Stay

Looking for a private room? See Optional Extras for details and pricing.

  1. Aerial view of the Blue Diamond Retreat, Vietnam.

    Standout Stay: forest retreat in Phong Nha

    Described as a hidden gem amidst the wilderness, Blue Diamond Retreat is surrounded by lush forests, imposing mountains and winding rivers and lakes, a truly special setting for exploring this part of Vietnam. This family-run hideaway blends boutique comfort with authentic local charm. You’ll stay in beautifully designed wooden bungalows, each crafted by local artisans and fitted with everything you need after a day’s adventure: crisp linens, private ensuite bathrooms and your own balcony or terrace where you can soak up the mountain air. The decor is warm and characterful, mixing traditional Vietnamese elements with a touch of modern minimalism. The retreat follows a sustainability ethos and the produce for the on-site restaurant is sourced from nearby villages, with the team working closely with the local community. Rooms are twin-share by default, with doubles available for couples. There’s a small outdoor pool for cooling off, shaded gardens to unwind in and plenty of cosy corners to relax with a cold drink while listening to the sounds of nature in the surrounding landscape.

    Stay

    Standout Stay: forest retreat in Phong Nha

    Described as a hidden gem amidst the wilderness, Blue Diamond Retreat is surrounded by lush forests, imposing mountains and winding rivers and lakes, a truly special setting for exploring this part of Vietnam. This family-run hideaway blends boutique comfort with authentic local charm. You’ll stay in beautifully designed wooden bungalows, each crafted by local artisans and fitted with everything you need after a day’s adventure: crisp linens, private ensuite bathrooms and your own balcony or terrace where you can soak up the mountain air. The decor is warm and characterful, mixing traditional Vietnamese elements with a touch of modern minimalism. The retreat follows a sustainability ethos and the produce for the on-site restaurant is sourced from nearby villages, with the team working closely with the local community. Rooms are twin-share by default, with doubles available for couples. There’s a small outdoor pool for cooling off, shaded gardens to unwind in and plenty of cosy corners to relax with a cold drink while listening to the sounds of nature in the surrounding landscape.

  2. Pool at Le Jardin Hotel Haute Couture, Hanoi, Vietnam.

    Rooftop pool vibes in Hanoi

    Your nights in Hanoi will be spent at the 4-star Le Jardin Hotel Haute Couture. Elegantly combining Vietnamese charm with modern touches, it’s located in the Ba Dinh District. Close to the Old Quarter and Truc Bach Lake, many of the city's key cultural and historical landmarks are within easy reach. You’ll stay in a twin-share room with an en-suite bathroom. The rooftop pool and relaxed bar are great spots to unwind during any downtime after arriving or before departing Hanoi. 21st Nov 2026 Departure will stay at Grand Cititel Hanoi Hotel, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Old Quarter.

    Stay

    Rooftop pool vibes in Hanoi

    Your nights in Hanoi will be spent at the 4-star Le Jardin Hotel Haute Couture. Elegantly combining Vietnamese charm with modern touches, it’s located in the Ba Dinh District. Close to the Old Quarter and Truc Bach Lake, many of the city's key cultural and historical landmarks are within easy reach. You’ll stay in a twin-share room with an en-suite bathroom. The rooftop pool and relaxed bar are great spots to unwind during any downtime after arriving or before departing Hanoi.

    21st Nov 2026 Departure will stay at Grand Cititel Hanoi Hotel, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Old Quarter.

  3. Sena Cruise, Halong Bay, Vietnam

    Scenic sailing in Lan Ha Bay

    In Lan Ha Bay, you’ll spend one night aboard a boutique sailing boat, a memorable night on the water. Alongside elegant decor and attentive service, the boat offers ever-changing views of one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic landscapes. You’ll stay in a deluxe twin cabin with an ensuite bathroom. The deck areas are spacious, with well-placed seating that lets you relax during your time on board.

    Stay

    Scenic sailing in Lan Ha Bay

    In Lan Ha Bay, you’ll spend one night aboard a boutique sailing boat, a memorable night on the water. Alongside elegant decor and attentive service, the boat offers ever-changing views of one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic landscapes. You’ll stay in a deluxe twin cabin with an ensuite bathroom. The deck areas are spacious, with well-placed seating that lets you relax during your time on board.

  4. Rooftop pool at the Cat Ba Paradise Hotel, Cat Ba, Vietnam.

    Seaside comfort on Cat Ba Island

    After your time on board the boat in Lan Ha Bay, you’ll spend a night back on dry land at the Cat Ba Paradise Hotel, a comfortable and well-located base on Cat Ba Island. Just a short stroll from the seafront, the hotel offers modern en suite rooms with air conditioning, WiFi and all the essentials you need to relax after a day of exploring. There’s a rooftop pool and bar where you can take in sweeping views of Lan Ha Bay. You’ll stay in twin-share rooms with ensuite bathrooms.

    Stay

    Seaside comfort on Cat Ba Island

    After your time on board the boat in Lan Ha Bay, you’ll spend a night back on dry land at the Cat Ba Paradise Hotel, a comfortable and well-located base on Cat Ba Island. Just a short stroll from the seafront, the hotel offers modern en suite rooms with air conditioning, WiFi and all the essentials you need to relax after a day of exploring. There’s a rooftop pool and bar where you can take in sweeping views of Lan Ha Bay. You’ll stay in twin-share rooms with ensuite bathrooms.

  5. A four berth cabin on a sleeper train in Vietnam

    Iconic overnight train adventure

    No trip to Vietnam is complete without a journey aboard a sleeper train. You'll travel overnight from Hanoi to Dong Hoi in a four-berth cabin, shared privately with other members of your group. The train usually departs around 20:00 and arrives into Quang Bình Province by around 06:00 – enough time to settle in, watch the city lights give way to the Vietnamese countryside, and perhaps head to the dining car for a beer or a nightcap before turning in. Pack a light layer as the air conditioning can run cold overnight, and earplugs are a good shout for lighter sleepers. Waking up somewhere completely new with the morning mist rolling over the rice paddies outside your window makes it entirely worth it.

    Stay

    Iconic overnight train adventure

    No trip to Vietnam is complete without a journey aboard a sleeper train. You'll travel overnight from Hanoi to Dong Hoi in a four-berth cabin, shared privately with other members of your group. The train usually departs around 20:00 and arrives into Quang Bình Province by around 06:00 – enough time to settle in, watch the city lights give way to the Vietnamese countryside, and perhaps head to the dining car for a beer or a nightcap before turning in. Pack a light layer as the air conditioning can run cold overnight, and earplugs are a good shout for lighter sleepers. Waking up somewhere completely new with the morning mist rolling over the rice paddies outside your window makes it entirely worth it.

  6. Wilderness camping at Ma Da Lake

    While this trip is all about premium accommodation and comfortable stays throughout, we couldn’t resist adding one night of wild camping in the spectacular Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park – the experience is just too good to miss. You’ll stay in spacious twin-share tents pitched on the banks of tranquil Ma Da Lake. Your host will provide roll mats, air mattresses and sleeping bags to keep things as cosy as possible. An environmentally friendly composting toilet is available at the campsite.

    Stay

    Wilderness camping at Ma Da Lake

    While this trip is all about premium accommodation and comfortable stays throughout, we couldn’t resist adding one night of wild camping in the spectacular Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park – the experience is just too good to miss. You’ll stay in spacious twin-share tents pitched on the banks of tranquil Ma Da Lake. Your host will provide roll mats, air mattresses and sleeping bags to keep things as cosy as possible. An environmentally friendly composting toilet is available at the campsite.

  7. Terrace at the Quynh Vien Resort, Vietnam.

    Laidback calm in Quynh Vien Resort

    Perched on a quiet stretch of Vietnam’s central coastline, Quynh Vien Resort combines breezy seaside living with laid-back boutique comfort. Accommodation is in airy, modern rooms with large windows and private balconies. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning and thoughtful touches like locally woven textiles and handmade ceramics. The resort’s restaurant serves up fresh seafood landed by local fishermen, alongside vibrant Vietnamese salads, noodle dishes and tropical fruit. In your downtime, you can lounge by the pool or wander along the beach right outside. You’ll stay in twin-share rooms.

    Stay

    Laidback calm in Quynh Vien Resort

    Perched on a quiet stretch of Vietnam’s central coastline, Quynh Vien Resort combines breezy seaside living with laid-back boutique comfort. Accommodation is in airy, modern rooms with large windows and private balconies. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning and thoughtful touches like locally woven textiles and handmade ceramics. The resort’s restaurant serves up fresh seafood landed by local fishermen, alongside vibrant Vietnamese salads, noodle dishes and tropical fruit. In your downtime, you can lounge by the pool or wander along the beach right outside. You’ll stay in twin-share rooms.

What You'll Eat

From the bustling streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter to tranquil riverside dining, this is a delicious journey through Vietnam’s vibrant flavours. Breakfasts often feature hearty phở, warming bò kho or spicy bún bò Huế, alongside lighter options like bánh mì, plus typical items such as eggs, cereals, fruit, tea, coffee and juice. Lunches and dinners bring a colourful array of Vietnamese favourites, including crispy spring rolls, savoury bún chả, silky bánh cuốn pancakes and bowls of hủ tiếu soup with vegetables, rice or noodles. There are also some…

Food and Dietary info

From the bustling streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter to tranquil riverside dining, this is a delicious journey through Vietnam’s vibrant flavours. Breakfasts often feature hearty phở, warming bò kho or spicy bún bò Huế, alongside lighter options like bánh mì, plus typical items such as eggs, cereals, fruit, tea, coffee and juice. Lunches and dinners bring a colourful array of Vietnamese favourites, including crispy spring rolls, savoury bún chả, silky bánh cuốn pancakes and bowls of hủ tiếu soup with vegetables, rice or noodles.

There are also some unique food experiences to look forward to. One evening you’ll enjoy a Vietnamese-style barbecue, feasting on skewers of marinated meats and vegetables grilled over charcoal in a relaxed outdoor setting. A seafood dinner awaits on a floating raft in Cat Ba, where freshly caught fish, squid and prawns are prepared as you drift gently on the water. In Hanoi’s Old Quarter, you’ll start a day with a classic breakfast of steaming phở paired with indulgent egg coffee, an iconic local speciality. To close the adventure, you’ll gather with your group for a farewell meal in the capital, sharing an elegant spread of regional dishes to celebrate the journey.

Vegetarians, vegans and other dietary requirements or allergies can be catered for - just note them on your passenger info form.

Dates & prices

Secure your spot

10% deposit to bookLimited exceptions

Pay in instalmentsNo interest or fees

Free cancellationOn most trips, up to 65 days before departure

2026

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What is and isn't Included?

What's included

  • Explore the old quarter on foot in Hanoi, with Vietnamese breakfast and traditional 'egg coffee'
  • Overnight cruise on a traditional, deluxe 'junk boat' with skipper and crew
  • Guided kayak, cycling and SUP outings across the Cat Ba archipelago during the boat journey
  • Guided hike through the Cat Ba National Park to Trung Tran cave
  • Guided kayak along the Son River to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
  • Guided hike in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park via Elephant Cave
  • Guided hike and swim into Tra Ang Cave
  • Guided bike ride through the Vietnamese countryside
  • Evening kayaking by torchlight at Blue Diamond Retreat

  • Expert, local, English-speaking tour leader
  • Specialist kayaking, jungle hiking and caving guides in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

  • Your Standout Stay: 2 nights in a beautifully designed wooden bungalow, surrounded by lust forests
  • 4 nights in beautiful, handpicked boutique hotels, retreats & eco-lodges
  • 1 night on a stunning, deluxe sailing boat
  • 1 night wild camping by the tranquil Ma Da Lake
  • 1 night in a classic Vietnamese sleeper train

  • 9 Vietnamese and international breakfasts
  • 6 traditional lunches, including traditional meal at a homestay in Cat Ba
  • 8 delicious local dinners, including seafood dinner on a floating raft and a barbecue at your base at Blue Diamond Retreat

  • Arrival transfer from Hanoi Airport at any time on Day 1
  • Departure transfer to Hanoi Airport at any time on Day 10
  • All transfers during the trip
  • Overnight sleeper train in private 4-berth carriage

  • During your Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park cave adventure, there will be a team of porters to carry the camping gear and prepare your meals

  • Kayaking equipment
  • Camping equipment
  • SUPing equipment
  • Cycling equipment

  • All permits, tickets and entry fees are included

Optional Extras

For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room and tent can be booked for an extra charge, see Optional Extras for the price. Please request this at the time of booking (this is subject to availability). Please note this is applicable to 7 nights in total as for the nights on the overnight train and boat, it is not possible to have a private single cabin.

Solo Upgrade

Solo room upgrade
Covers both the room nights and the camping nights
£267 pp
1 Jan 2026 – 30 Dec 2026

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Ratings & Reviews

4.625 reviews
  • 3 stars (0)

Category rating

Food
4.0
Guides & crew
4.0
Accommodation
5.0
Itinerary
4.0

Latest Reviews

  • Muna C.

    I was very exited for this trip, and the group of people I was with, were amazing, but the weather was not that good, which can happen of course, but the sad thing is, that a lot of the activities got canceled due to the weather, which is totally fine, but I would expect that the organizers offer us alternative things to do, they know their country, and floods and rain is not uncommon during this time, instead we spent a lot of time sitting in Hotels and eating, which was not my idea of an adventure trip, and hesitated a lot to change the plans, only after we searched for an alternative Hike and insisted on doing that they booked it for us All in all I think the guide and the organizers could have been more active and reacted faster to the conditions, so that not so much of our previous time was lost doing nothing, after all that is the reason to book with MBA, so I don’t have to waste my time figuring out what to do, the food also was very western oriented, not really traditional Vietnamese cuisine, the only good food I hade was during a street food trip we made our self, which is not ideal, I honestly had a much better experience during my previous trip to northern Spain

  • Jane A.

    Overall we had a really good time in Vietnam, it was good to intersperse the sight seeing with activities, and we loved the jungle trek, even the leeches. Given this was a 'premium' trip I was expecting our equipment to have been of a better standard, ie. bikes with breaks that worked!

  • Robert G.

    I have been on MBA tours and other similar tours before and have always had wonderful experiences and memories. This trip missed the mark by thousands of miles. To be fair there was weather challenges that caused some itinerary challenges however rather than having a guide find alternative choices we were left to sit in hotel rooms with nothing to do. Fortunately I had a very proactive group minus the guide and we were able to save our own itinerary and find activities to do. Not the guide but the individuals in the group. We only accomplished about 20% of what is listed here. I contacted MBA during the trip, they initially encouraged me to reach out to the local host but that's who we were having the problem with. Apparently MBA has a 28 day review process for these things. In short, this trip was a complete waste of money and time. I strongly do not recommend.

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4.625 reviews
  • 5 stars (20)
  • 4 stars (3)
  • 3 stars (0)
  • 2 stars (1)
  • 1 star (1)
Showing all 25 reviews

  • A bit disappointing

    Muna C. September 2026
    I was very exited for this trip, and the group of people I was with, were amazing, but the weather was not that good, which can happen of course, but the sad thing is, that a lot of the activities got canceled due to the weather, which is totally fine, but I would expect that the organizers offer us alternative things to do, they know their country, and floods and rain is not uncommon during this time, instead we spent a lot of time sitting in Hotels and eating, which was not my idea of an adventure trip, and hesitated a lot to change the plans, only after we searched for an alternative Hike and insisted on doing that they booked it for us All in all I think the guide and the organizers could have been more active and reacted faster to the conditions, so that not so much of our previous time was lost doing nothing, after all that is the reason to book with MBA, so I don’t have to waste my time figuring out what to do, the food also was very western oriented, not really traditional Vietnamese cuisine, the only good food I hade was during a street food trip we made our self, which is not ideal, I honestly had a much better experience during my previous trip to northern Spain

  • Overall we had a really

    Jane A. September 2026
    Overall we had a really good time in Vietnam, it was good to intersperse the sight seeing with activities, and we loved the jungle trek, even the leeches. Given this was a 'premium' trip I was expecting our equipment to have been of a better standard, ie. bikes with breaks that worked!

  • Not as advertised

    Robert G. September 2026
    I have been on MBA tours and other similar tours before and have always had wonderful experiences and memories. This trip missed the mark by thousands of miles. To be fair there was weather challenges that caused some itinerary challenges however rather than having a guide find alternative choices we were left to sit in hotel rooms with nothing to do. Fortunately I had a very proactive group minus the guide and we were able to save our own itinerary and find activities to do. Not the guide but the individuals in the group. We only accomplished about 20% of what is listed here. I contacted MBA during the trip, they initially encouraged me to reach out to the local host but that's who we were having the problem with. Apparently MBA has a 28 day review process for these things. In short, this trip was a complete waste of money and time. I strongly do not recommend.

  • BEST TIME EVER!!!

    Samille M. August 2026
    Wow - this trip was one of the best I've ever done. Such an amazing mix of fun, adventurous, nature-based activities in stunning locations. And our guide - Tri - what an amazing man. He couldn't do enough for us and went out of his way to make our trip unforgettable - all in a kind, patient and gentle manner. He even organised a birthday cake to be made and presented to me in the middle of the jungle! I'd give this trip more stars if I could.

  • An Unforgettable Experience

    Rachael C. August 2026
    Our journey through Northern Vietnam was nothing short of unforgettable. The itinerary was beautifully planned, fast paced and full of adventure, culture and connection. From the stunning landscapes of Lan Ha Bay and calm of the Son River to trekking, jungle camping in Ma Da Valley, and visiting local villages, every day brought a new and memorable experience. The food was fresh, plentiful, and delicious, while the varied accommodation—from jungle camps and boat cabins to eco-villas and the luxurious Blue Diamond Retreat—added to the adventure. What truly made this trip exceptional was the warmth of the Vietnamese people and our outstanding guide, Tri. His passion for Vietnam, wealth of knowledge, calm nature, humour, and genuine care made every one of us feel safe, welcomed, and inspired. He went above and beyond throughout the journey and is a tremendous asset to MBA. I can't recommend it highly enough and already can't wait to return to Vietnam. Thank you Tri, for such an extraordinary experience. Rachael C Tiki Tas

  • Amazing adventure!

    Teresa C. August 2026
    Loved our time in Vietnam, especially the overnight hike. Our guide, Tri was absolutely amazing!

  • Fantastic

    Kelly-Jean B. August 2026
    Epic blend of exploring, eating, caving, jungle walks, Hanoi city to quieter cycling in rural life, kayaking, Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay etc etc. So good! Knowledgeable, awesome guide. Highly, highly recommend.

  • Coast to caves

    Henrietta A. June 2026
    All written under private content

  • Unforgettable experiences!

    David K. September 2025
    This trip was absolutely incredible! The variety of activities kept every day exciting, and I came away with unforgettable memories. Yes, Vietnam is a vast country, which means plenty of travelling - but every road trip was filled with breathtaking scenery, delicious food and wonderful company, making the journeys just as enjoyable as the destinations. We discovered countless hidden gems as we ventured off the beaten track, each more magical than the last. The jungle and caves were definitely highlights, but honestly, there wasn’t a single low point - it was all extraordinary. A huge thank you to our guide, Tri, whose warmth, knowledge and passion brought Vietnam’s landscapes and culture to life. He truly made us feel welcome every step of the way!

  • Book it now!

    Sofia P. June 2025
    This was my first MBA trip, but definitely not my last - it was one of the best trips of my life! Vietnam is a beautiful, magical place - the trip's itinerary was perfect, with an excellent mix of activities, locations and accommodation types. We felt really safe and well taken care of the whole time. Our guide Tri was kind, patient and very knowlegeable. The weather affected one of the activities and our guide and MBA were fantastic and quickly rearranged the itenerary, so we ended up with an even better trip than expected. The food was amazing the whole time and the difficulty rating was correctly identified. MBA's commitment to help local communities and the environment is what made us choose to book with them - this was clear throughout the entire trip. I cannot recommend it enough! Thank you, MBA!

  • Absolutely brilliant trip, full of adventure and exploring the country

    Alice P. May 2025
    This trip was my second MBA trip and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it. Tri, our guide, was an absolute star from beginning to end, with endless knowledge and patience. Logistically this trip was excellently organised, food was incredible and the activities brilliant. A good level of fitness does make the trip more enjoyable but it is still accessible. I was initially a little nervous having read some of the other reviews, but I did not need to worry as it was brilliant.

  • Trip of a lifetime

    Amber S. December 2024
    I can't even begin to express how life-changing and epic this trip was. Words just don't seem enough but I shall try. The entire itinerary was beautifully crafted to incorporate the various local life, scenery, activities, food, and lodging. Everything I could have possibly wanted but didn't even know I wanted was provided. The ease and comfort was 10 out of 10. I loved the mixture of roughing it mixed in with luxury! Our guide Tri was a saint, so incredibly patient, thoughtful, kind, funny, knowledgeable and on top of things. Our group was awesome too. I'm so glad it is capped at 10, the size was perfect. Because of this exact trip I could easily see myself living in Vietnam. Thank you for such an amazing adventure! I'm now a lifetime member of MBA. Already started looking for the next trip!

  • So. much fun!

    Anita L. December 2024
    What an amazing experience. Fabulous group of people. Lovely guide, fast paced experiences

  • An amazing trip with the

    Natasha B. September 2024
    An amazing trip with the best tour guide, Linh Vo. Linh always went out of his way to help the group in any way possible. A highlight of the trip was definitely the whole jungle experience. Accommodation and food throughout the trip was great. Although we spent a couple of hours on a bus some days, this time went by fairly quickly and our tour guide was able to share some stories during this time.

  • This was a varied and

    Robert P. September 2024
    This was a varied and very enjoyable private trip, which required some flexibility from our hosts as we arrived just after Typhoon Yagi had departed. Highlights of the trip were visits to the stunning wet and dry caves, hiking through the jungle (including wading along rivers), floating down a river, cycling through beautiful countryside and river kayaking. Of particular note were the consistent friendliness of the local people, the amazing scenery, the excellent coffee culture and the wide variety of foods. Sadly, the typhoon had caused significant damage to Lan Ha Bay and consequently our trip to Cat Ba island was cancelled. It was replaced with a trip to Ninh Binh where we walked up to a monument and cycled through the spectacular scenery. Unexpectedly, we were also chased down the road by an ostrich! Our guide, Tri, was excellent in all respects. Friendly and tolerant at all times, he coordinated the changing itinerary with MBA and offered options, involving us in decisions where appropriate. One area that could be improved upon was the Kit List. Previous reviews have been especially helpful in this respect and in our experience pillows, fleece, head torches, towels and water purification tablets were not required. This is particularly relevant to the jungle experience which is provided by a company called Jungle Boss. Before setting off into the jungle we were offered a pair of Vietnamese Army boots (essentially ankle high canvas boots with rubber soles) for wading and swimming in the cave. People who had brought their own water shoes happily used these instead of the Army boots. I used the Army boots, which were reasonably comfortable but did result in me carrying either my own walking boots or the Army boots tied onto my rucksack. In retrospect I might have left my own boots in my case for the jungle experience and just used the Army boots provided. Overall, this is a great trip with a good blend of adventure and memorable experiences. Whilst we missed out on the trip to Cat Ba, this was more than compensated for by the beauty of the Ninh Binh area.

  • The best week ever!

    Ben S. July 2024
    Wow! Where to start. . . What an amazing week in Vietnam, one of the best things I have ever done. First things first, our guide Tri was an absolute godsend. Just superb. He fitted into our group so well and we felt like he was part of our social group and not a guide, despite sorting everything for us. This included the local guides for specific activities, who were equally as great. The main highlights of the trip: 1 - The 2 day expedition to the caves and the jungle was a truly once in a lifetime experience. Cannot recommend the trip enough purely for this part. 2 - The time in Lan Ha bay, albeit short, was also amazing. Kayaking at sunrise, paddle boarding around the islands and the fantastic hike to the summit was breathtaking. 3 - The food and accommodation blew us away. Every night something different and really really tasty. We felt incredibly well catered for, for the entire duration. Be prepared though for a night on the train and in the jungle which were both slightly different experiences! To address the only negative that appears in other reviews is the travelling. Yes, there was a lot of time spent in the car, with our awesome driver, Hero. Once you get your head around this, it is not an issue at all. There is no way to access the jungle and national parks without this long drive and it is completely worth a few hours in a car. The journeys are well broken up by food stops and a short walk to stretch your legs on day 2, so it really wasn't an issue for us. The kit list provided by MBA is maybe a touch long - you will live out of the wicking t-shirts, and probably don't need extra fleeces, travel pillows or mozzy nets. You will need bug spray. I bought some pretty heavy duty hiking boots that were a touch too much also, a decent pair of trail runners would probably suffice, maybe with the exception of the long hike on the Saturday. All in all this a simply amazing experience, and we felt we had seen both sides of Vietnam, from the madness of Hanoi to the vast jungles and then the stunning Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay. Would highly recommend - thank you so much MBA - and especially Tri!

  • This is a well-paced but

    Susan F. June 2024
    This is a well-paced but adventurous way to explore North and Central Vietnam. The activities were a good mixture of excitement and discovering the real Vietnam. Highlights for us were camping in the jungle, swimming into caves and floating down the river, and the company of the lovely people in the group. The first day and a half involve a good bit of driving in the van, but we actually enjoyed this as there was plenty to look at out the window and it gave us a chance to recover from jet lag. It is so worth it to get there - you really are off the beaten track. We found ourselves constantly saying “We’d never have found this!!”. Food is very good and plentiful. The enjoyment of this trip is all made possible by our guide Tri: he does an amazing job of keeping everything on schedule, minding everyone, and making sure we get the best out of everything. This trip is not for the faint hearted, but if you are reasonably fit and have a sense of adventure you’ll get so much out of it. We certainly did!! Packing tips - things from the list I didn’t need: travel pillow, sleeping bag liner, water purification tablets, fleece, towel (everywhere provides them, even the jungle camping trip!) Things I wish I’d brought: more technical wicking T-shirts, plus at least two long sleeved ones, a second pair of light hiking trousers (don’t bring leggings it’s too humid!), a better day pack (twice in the trip they send your main bag ahead and you live out of your day bag for a couple of days). You’re never in the same place two nights running so I was glad I’d brought an open-out kitbag on wheels which made finding things easier.

  • The real Vietnam

    Abigail G. May 2024
    This is truly a fantastic trip for anyone wanting to see the real Vietnam. As well as Halong Bay, you are also able to experience swimming into caves, a real-life lazy river, and the overnight train back to Hanoi (bring your earplugs!). Our guide, Linh, did an amazing job at getting us where we needed to be and was extremely knowledgeable and friendly.

  • An amazing trip with a

    Karen C. May 2024
    An amazing trip with a very amazing guide, Tri Nguyen. A serious amount of fun packed into a very short number of days. Exploring both a wet and dry cave were hightlights. Camping in the jungle with the best food of the entire trip another highlight. The overnight train back to Hanoi was an unexpected highlight. Tri did a wonderful job at managing our group of friends. Loved the variety of landscapes, travel modes, activities and food. Highly recommended trip!

  • Vietnam Trip

    Prudence K. April 2024
    This is a great trip, and made so much better by our amazing guide,Tri Nguyen. He went out of his way to inject fun and humour. A great leader. Highlights: camping in the jungle; beautiful and the food. . . just fabulous / swimming in the caves / the train / the stop on the highway to meet artists with disabilities.

  • Fantastic Trip!

    Michaela K. April 2024
    Fantastic Trip!

  • Increadible Adventure

    Sam S. April 2024
    A truely increadible experience. Had such a fantastic time meeting new people and doing new activities. Tri our guide was so helpful, friendly and positive! Exactly what you need on a trip like this. Really great adventure to test yourself in a variety of different ways. Exploring the jungle was truelly out of this world and swimming in the caves was something that I have never experienced before. Loved the kayaking and the river cruise exceeded expectations.

  • Epic adventure

    Aurelie L. March 2024
    I highly recommend this adventure in North and Central Vietnam, which I found was very well organised, fun, and thoroughly enjoyable! Our guide Tri made sure everyone felt safe and catered for, managed all the logistics of the trip in the smallest details, and brought the best of local knowledge in daily experiences (culture, history, food) - which was greatly appreciated by everyone. This is a full-on trip - lots of traveling using a variety of transport modes to reach remote places, multiple activities that require some fitness and a sense of adventure, and a good dose of camaraderie!

  • Brilliant adventure!

    Emma C. March 2024
    I loved this trip. Our guide Tri was amazing, I don’t believe the trip would have been the same without him. The food he organised was incredible. I felt safe from beginning to end and met some wonderful people. Would highly recommend this trip.

  • It was a great mixture

    Michele` January 2024
    It was a great mixture of accomodations, with the boutique boat being the highlight. You never went hungry that's for sure and the egg coffee was my favourite. Trekking through the jungle was something I have never done before so it was challenging but rewarding coming out the other side.

Need to Know

Getting There

Nearest airport
Noi Bai International Airport (HAN)
Pick up
Noi Bai International Airport, Hanoi
Any time on Day 1
Drop off
Noi Bai International Airport, Hanoi
Any time on Day 10

Detailed Logistics

Transfers

Your host’s local driver will meet you on arrival at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi and transfer you to your hotel, located near the Old Quarter and French Quarter. On Day 10, your host’s local driver will transfer you back to the airport in time for your onward flight. If you're already in Hanoi independently, you’re welcome to head to the Le Jardin Hotel Haute Couture on Day 1 to meet the group if you don’t require a transfer from the airport.

Airport transfers are included in the main price if you arrive on Day 1 and depart on Day 10. If you’re arriving early or planning to stay longer, extra nights at the hotel and airport transfers can be arranged with your host at an additional cost. Please see Optional Extras for more information.

Travel options

There are direct international flights to Hanoi from London, as well as indirect flights from the UK and major European hubs via Frankfurt, Doha, Dubai, Singapore, Bangkok or Saigon.

From the US, there are indirect flights from major hubs via Seoul, Taipei, Tokyo, Narita, Doha, Istanbul or Dubai, depending on your route.

What to Pack

Backpack with hiking gear laid out

Know before you go! Some stuff we'll provide, other things you'll need to bring.

Kit List

What's included?
  • Bicycle and cycle helmet
  • Kayaks, paddles and life jackets
  • Inflatable SUP, paddle, leash & life jacket

Ma Da Valley caves and lake:

  • Camping gear including tent, insulation sheet, sleeping bag and air mattresses
  • Cave and swim safety gear: caving helmet, caving headlight and bouyancy aid
  • First aid kit and medical rescue equipment
What do I need to bring?

BAGS

  • Soft overnight duffel bag or rucksack
  • Daypack (20-30 litres)
  • Waterproof liner for kitbag/rucksack, or drybags

CLOTHES

  • Waterproof jacket
  • Waterproof trousers
  • Breathable wicking layers
  • Thin fleece jacket or similar
  • Buff or neck scarf
  • Shawl/sarong (to cover shoulders and knees during temple visits)
  • Lightweight trousers/shorts/skirts (quick drying)
  • Long sleeved trek shirt (quick drying)
  • T-shirts
  • Underwear and socks
  • Hiking socks (long)
  • Swimwear
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunhat
  • Something to sleep in
  • Hiking boots (worn-in)
  • Beach/river shoes for river crossings
  • Sandals

SLEEPING

  • Cotton or silk sleeping bag liner
  • Travel pillow or pillowcase (Optional)

OTHER

  • Universal travel plug adapter
  • Power bank or solar charger
  • Passports (and visas)
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Ear plugs
  • Insect repellent
  • Suncream (reef friendly)
  • Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
  • Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
  • Toilet kit (toilet paper, biodegradable bags to carry paper out to dispose of)
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Alcohol hand-gel
  • Headtorch or torch
  • Reusable water bottle x1 litre
  • Biodegradable wet-wipes
  • Energy bars and snacks - read our article on Best Hiking Snacks (opens in new tab)

FAQs

A Premium trip is built on the same foundations as our Classic trips: active time in wild places, led by brilliant local guides. The pace, trip style and difficulty level may vary, from slower journey-style itineraries with lighter activity to full active days out in the wild, so read the trip page carefully to make sure the adventure does suit your expectations and fitness.

What changes is the comfort. On our Classic trips, you’ll usually stay in 3-star hotels (occasionally 4-star), with simple guesthouses or wild camping where the destination calls for it. Premium is a step up from that, but it isn’t necessarily a five-star or ultra-luxury experience. Our Premium adventures usually come with 4-star hotels or above, or boutique and characterful places where star ratings don’t apply. We choose personality over chain-hotel polish, and we avoid international chains in favour of independent, locally owned places, so more of your money stays in the communities you visit. Facilities may vary: air conditioning isn’t guaranteed everywhere, and room categories aren’t always specified, so check the accommodation details if these matter to you.

Camping is rare on Premium trips and only included when it’s the only way to experience a remote destination that we think it’s worth including. When it is, you’ll get high-quality kit and an upgraded service from our local team.

Food is a highlight, not an afterthought: high-quality, local and plentiful, whether it’s a restaurant meal or a picnic with all the trimmings.

Your guide will be one of our most experienced, and small groups mean they always have time for you, whether that’s answering questions, adjusting the pace or finding a hidden viewpoint.

If you’re after guaranteed five-star hotels and Michelin dining, or a trip where comfort comes before adventure, our Premium collection won’t be the right fit. It’s for those who want the same wild adventures, highly curated from start to finish, with a little extra comfort at the end of each day.

Your host is an expert in all things Vietnam, specialising in itineraries across the country and running trips in the region for many years. If weather or other factors affect the ability to visit a particular place or carry out a specific activity, your host will have plenty of alternative options available.

You’ll have one main guide for the entirety of the trip. Throughout the adventure, specialist local guides will join for many of the activities to offer expert insight into the places you’re exploring:

Specialist jungle hiking and caving guides in the Ma Da Valley Kayaking guides in Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park Guided kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and cycling outings during the boat excursion in Lan Ha Bay to Cat Ba Island

Tap water in Vietnam is not safe to drink, but clean drinking water will be provided. Please pack your own reusable bottle, it’ll come in handy. While on the Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park cave hike, there may be opportunities to refill your bottle from streams, so we recommend packing water purification tablets.

Water bottles with inbuilt filters are becoming increasingly popular for travellers to use in countries without clean tap water. Please see our guide (opens in new tab) for advice on the best water filters for adventurers if you wish to bring your own filtration bottle on this trip.

If you wish to, you can leave excess luggage at the hotel in Hanoi, to be collected upon your return to the same hotel at the end of your trip.

Day 6 you will be heading to Ma Da Valley for one night camping and then returning to Blue Diamond Retreat. You will leave your main Luggage at Blue Diamond Retreat and take an overnight bag only camping with you.

You will need to manoeuvre your bag on and off the overnight train and so please consider this when choosing luggage you can carry on this trip.

The kayaks across the itinerary will be single or double kayaks, either sit-on-top or touring kayaks. Sit-on-top kayaks are very stable and easy to paddle for everyone, including new paddlers through to experienced paddlers. Sit-on-top kayaks can be used on the sea, estuaries, rivers, lakes and canals. Touring kayaks are designed to be stable on the water, comfortable to sit in, easy to get into and cater for all paddling abilities from a complete novice to an experienced paddler.

The SUPs will be inflatable and the brand of board will be either Touring or Alaround.

The kayaks are of a standard size, 3.5m in length and 65cm wide approx. Single kayaks can take a maximum load of up to 120kg and double kayaks up to 150kg.

The SUPs will be inflatable, 11'6" - 12'6" long, 32" wide and 6" thick. The recommended payloads are: 95 kg/max. payload: 143kg, the paddle will be the standard type (aluminium + plastic).

At Much Better Adventures, we work hard to accommodate dietary requirements and allergies so your trip is safe, inclusive and enjoyable. That said, options can vary by country, location and accommodation, and in some places options may be limited or unavailable. The information below has been provided by your host so you’re fully informed about what will be possible on your trip depending on your individual requirements. This information should be read carefully prior to your trip to ensure that you are adequately prepared for the situation ‘on the ground’.

Once you have booked on your trip, please fill out your passenger information form as soon as possible with any dietary requirements. Once you complete your passenger information, your dietary needs and any allergies are automatically shared with your host and, in turn, your guide. Please submit this as early as possible so they can plan accordingly and deliver the best experience. Please also remind your guide about your dietary requirements upon arrival, as mentioning these in person allows your guide to comprehend individual preferences and limitations as soon as you arrive.

SPECIAL DIETS

Vegetarian
Vegetarian diets can be catered for on this trip, provided that your host is made aware in advance.

Vegan
Vegan diets can be catered for on this trip, provided that your host is made aware in advance.

Kosher
Fully certified Kosher kitchens and supervision are rare and usually cannot be guaranteed unless expressly confirmed in advance by your host. Vegetarian or vegan options can often be the most reliable alternative if this is acceptable to you. Please read the related sections above.

Halal
Certified Halal supply varies by location and may not always be possible. Vegetarian or vegan options can often be the most reliable alternative if this is acceptable to you. Please read the related sections above.

INTOLERANCES

Gluten-free (for Coeliac, please see Allergies section below)
Gluten-free diets can be catered for on this trip, provided that your host is made aware in advance.

Lactose-free
Lactose-free diets can be catered for on this trip, provided that your host is made aware in advance.

ALLERGIES

Our host has confirmed that they are able to accommodate mild allergies to the 14 allergens (opens in new tab) identified by the UK Food Standards Agency, where these are disclosed in advance. However, if you have a severe or life-threatening food allergy, please get in touch with our Customer Experience team prior to booking, to discuss whether your requirements can be accommodated safely on this trip. This will allow us to carefully consider the sensitivity and severity of your allergy, the available provision on the trip and the accessibility of medical care should a reaction occur. Your safety is always our top priority. Please note that when travelling overseas, local ingredients, food preparation methods and labelling standards may vary, particularly in remote areas. It is also worth noting that any allergies may result in more limited options and repetitive provision in some areas. Whilst your guide will help communicate dietary requirements where possible, customers remain responsible for managing their own allergies during the trip.

Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.

Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with (opens in new tab). You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.

Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website (opens in new tab), where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).

For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.

We recommend checking out the country-specific information (opens in new tab) and also talking to a travel nurse.

We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.

If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.

All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. You must be over 18 to join one of our trips.

You're always in good company on one of our adventures.

Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.

Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way. Check out our Community Values (opens in new tab) – a shared code to make sure that everyone's experience is safe, inclusive and brilliantly unforgettable.

It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.

Don't just take our word for it:

  • 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
  • 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
  • 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends

See here (opens in new tab) for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.

Northern Vietnam has a subtropical, humid summer climate this means that although it’s hot, short, heavy showers are common due to the rainy season from May to September. The winter months are cooler in the north, with occasional light showers. December and January tend to be the driest. The weather in Vietnam is generally pleasant year-round, but due to the country’s geography and regional climate variations, it’s unlikely there’ll be perfect conditions throughout the entire trip.

The trip is scheduled to depart in the winter, spring and summer months between December and early September. The following is a guide to approximate temperatures you can expect:

In winter, temperatures range between 12°C / 54°F and 23°C / 73°F in the daytime and drop to around 10°C / 50°F at night.

In spring, temperatures are generally around 23°C / 73°F in the daytime and down to about 15°C / 59°F at night.

In summer, temperatures can reach up to 40°C / 104°F in the daytime and drop to around 25°C / 77°F at night.

A good time to visit northern Vietnam is between August and early September, with pleasant temperatures between 20°C / 68°F and 25°C / 77°F.

What's the number?
It works out on average at 388kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.

The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.

But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:

  • Driving 1000 miles/1609km would be approximately 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person, if there were two of you in it).
  • A return economy class flight between London and New York would be approximately 1619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
  • 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approximately 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.

What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans.

Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here (opens in new tab).

Illustration of a group of people kayaking

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