Best tours from Ho Chi Minh City | Southern Vietnam 🇻🇳
Updated on
December 11, 2024
Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling hub of activity and serves as a gateway to various exciting destinations in southern Vietnam. Whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, or simply relaxing, there are numerous tours available to suit every traveler's interests. Here are the top tours you can take from Ho Chi Minh City:
Cu Chi Tunnels Tour (Half Day)
Discover the extensive network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War.
Activities
Morning/Afternoon: Drive to Cu Chi Tunnels, explore the tunnels, watch a documentary, and learn about guerilla warfare techniques.
Optional: Try cassava root, a staple for guerilla fighters.
Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes for crawling through tunnels. Not recommended for those with claustrophobia.
Mekong Delta Tour (Full Day)
Experience the rich culture and natural beauty of the Mekong Delta, known for its lush landscapes and bustling markets.
Activities
Morning: Drive to My Tho, boat cruise on the Mekong River, visit local islands.
Midday: Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch, visit a coconut candy workshop, and listen to local music.
Afternoon: Explore Vinh Trang Pagoda and return to Ho Chi Minh City.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent. Bring some cash for local crafts and snacks.
Vung Tau Beach Excursion (Full Day)
Relax and unwind at Vung Tau, a popular beach destination near Ho Chi Minh City.
Activities
Morning: Drive to Vung Tau, visit the Christ the King statue, and enjoy panoramic views.
Midday: Relax on the beach, swim, and enjoy seafood at local restaurants.
Afternoon: Visit the Vung Tau Lighthouse and explore the local markets before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Try the fresh seafood dishes for lunch.
Cao Dai Temple and Black Virgin Mountain (Full Day)
Explore the unique Cao Dai Temple and the historic Black Virgin Mountain.
Activities
Morning: Drive to Tay Ninh, visit the Cao Dai Temple, and witness the midday prayer ceremony.
Midday: Lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: Hike or take a cable car up Black Virgin Mountain, explore the caves and temples, and enjoy the scenic views.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes if planning to hike the mountain. Dress modestly for the temple visit.
Can Gio Mangrove Forest and Monkey Island (Full Day)
Experience the biodiversity of Can Gio Mangrove Forest, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Activities
Morning: Drive to Can Gio, explore the mangrove forest by boat, visit the crocodile farm, and feed the monkeys on Monkey Island.
Midday: Lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: Visit the Vam Sat Ecological Center and bird sanctuary before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.
Bring insect repellent, a hat, and sunscreen. Be careful with your belongings around the monkeys.
My Tho and Ben Tre Day Tour (Full Day)
Explore the heart of the Mekong Delta with visits to My Tho and Ben Tre.
Activities
Morning: Drive to My Tho, boat ride on the Mekong River, visit a fruit orchard, and enjoy local honey tea.
Midday: Lunch at a riverside restaurant, visit Ben Tre for a sampan ride through the canals.
Afternoon: Explore local villages and coconut processing workshops before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.
Wear lightweight clothing and comfortable shoes. Stay hydrated, especially during the boat rides.
Ho Chi Minh City Cooking Class (Half Day)
Learn to cook traditional Vietnamese dishes in a hands-on cooking class.
Activities
Morning/Afternoon: Market tour to buy fresh ingredients, followed by a cooking class where you prepare and enjoy several Vietnamese dishes.
Come hungry, as you’ll be eating what you cook. Be prepared to actively participate in cooking.
Dalat City Tour (2-3 Days)
Explore the charming city of Dalat, known for its cool climate and beautiful landscapes.
Activities
Day 1: Fly or drive to Dalat, visit the Crazy House, and explore the night market.
Day 2: Visit the Valley of Love, Dalat Flower Park, and Datanla Waterfall. Optionally, take a cable car ride to Truc Lam Zen Monastery.
Day 3: Morning visit to the Dalat Railway Station and Xuan Huong Lake before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.
Pack warmer clothes for Dalat’s cool climate. Rent a motorbike for easier exploration of Dalat.
Phu Quoc Island Getaway (3-4 Days)
Enjoy a tropical escape to Phu Quoc Island, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life.
Activities
Day 1: Fly to Phu Quoc, relax on Long Beach, and explore the night market.
Day 2: Snorkeling and island hopping tour, visit Fingernail Island, May Rut Island, and Thom Island.
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Day 3: Visit Vinpearl Safari, Phu Quoc National Park, and Ganh Dau Cape.
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Day 4: Morning visit to a local pearl farm before flying back to Ho Chi Minh City.
Bring your own gear if you prefer. Plan your visit during the dry season (November to March).
Ho Tram Beach Resort (2 Days)
Relax and rejuvenate at Ho Tram, a serene beach resort area near Ho Chi Minh City.
Activities
Day 1: Drive to Ho Tram, check into a beach resort, relax by the beach or pool, and enjoy a spa treatment.
Day 2: Continue enjoying the resort amenities, take a short trip to the nearby Binh Chau Hot Springs before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.
Book in advance, especially during weekends and holidays. Make the most of the resort’s amenities for a truly relaxing experience.
