Vietnam Through Your Lens
February 2027
Kevin Dooley is an award-winning Wildlife and Wedding Photographer who grew up in Placitas, New Mexico. At the age of 18, he enlisted into the Navy and served on an aircraft carrier. After he completed his service he returned to New Mexico and opened his own photography studio in Albuquerque which is recently retired after 40 years. . His passion for wildlife photography and Africa, led him to his safari adventures and he eventually opened Idube Photo Safaris. Kevin is a certified FGASA (Field Guide Association of South Africa), Wildlife Guide, a PPA Master Photographer and takes guests from all over the world on amazing photographic safaris in Africa, Alaska, the Amazon, India and the Antarctic. He also teaches wildlife and portrait photography workshops
Depart USA Feb 8th-Depart for home Feb 24th
DATE | DAY DESCRIPTION | ACCOMMODATION | MEALS* |
09 Feb 2027 | Arrive Hanoi | Movenpick Hotel Hanoi 2 Classic Room – Twin Classic Room – Single | |
10 Feb 2027 | Hanoi | Movenpick Hotel Hanoi 2 Classic Room – Twin Classic Room – Single | B |
11 Feb 2027 | Hanoi | Movenpick Hotel Hanoi 2 Classic Room – Twin Classic Room – Single | B |
12 Feb 2027 | Hanoi – Ha Long Bay | Lyra Grandeur Cruise (2 Days/1 Night) Oasis Suite – Single 2 Oasis Suite – Twin | B-L-D |
13 Feb 2027 | Ha Long Bay – Ninh Binh | Nham Village Lua House – Single 2 Lua House – Twin | B |
14 Feb 2027 | Ninh Binh | Nham Village Lua House – Single 2 Lua House – Twin | B |
15 Feb 2027 | Ninh Binh – Hue | aNhill Boutique Superior Suite – Single 2 Superior Suite – Twin | B |
16 Feb 2027 | Hue | aNhill Boutique Superior Suite – Single 2 Superior Suite – Twin | B-L |
17 Feb 2027 | Hue – Hoi An | Hotel Royal Hoi An 2 Grand Deluxe Room – Twin Deluxe Room – Single | B |
18 Feb 2027 | Hoi An | Hotel Royal Hoi An 2 Grand Deluxe Room – Twin Deluxe Room – Single | B |
19 Feb 2027 | Hoi An – Phu Yen | Zannier Hotels Bai San Ho 2 Greenfield Terrace Villa – Twin Beach View Terrace Villa – Single | B-L |
20 Feb 2027 | Phu Yen | Zannier Hotels Bai San Ho 2 Greenfield Terrace Villa – Twin Beach View Terrace Villa – Single | B-L |
21 Feb 2027 | Quy Nhon – Ho Chi Minh City | The Reverie Deluxe Room – Single 2 Deluxe Room – Twin | B |
22 Feb 2027 | Ho Chi Minh City – Can Tho | Legacy Mekong 2 Gardenview Bungalow – Twin Waterview Bungalow – Single | B-L |
23 Feb 2027 | Can Tho – Ho Chi Minh City | The Reverie Deluxe Room – Single 2 Deluxe Room – Twin | B |
24 Feb 2027 | Depart Ho Chi Minh City | B |
Day 1 (09-Feb-2027): Hanoi Arrival
Welcome to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam.
Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, enjoy International Fast Track service before transferring to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Day 2 (10-Feb-2027): Hanoi & Traditional Artisan Villages
Get an early start today to witness Hanoi slowly come to life in the early morning. The city’s day starts with a quiet whisper as market vendors and
city workers start preparing for the day ahead. Pass through usually crowded boulevards that are just beginning to wake up and visit the Botanical
Gardens where locals gather for their daily dose of exercise, practicing tai chi masters or playing badminton. Continue along a leafy street lined
with French colonial villas. Stop exploring the city’s largest fresh food market where many of the city’s shops and restaurants source their produce.
The market is located near Long Bien Bridge, an iconic steel overpass built by French architects in the early 20th century. Then savor a typical
Hanoian breakfast at one of the city’s best pho noodle hotspots.
Discover Hanoi through its historic landmarks and vibrant street life, capturing scenes around the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature, Train
Street, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, St. Joseph’s Cathedral.
This afternoon, venture into the countryside to photograph northern Vietnam’s renowned artisan villages. Bat Trang, where master potters shape and hand-
paint exquisite ceramics using techniques passed down through generations. After watching the artisans, take the opportunity to craft a traditional vase of your
own.
Day 3 (11-Feb-2027): Hanoi – Duong Lam Ancient Village (L)
Journey into the countryside to Duong Lam, one of Vietnam’s best-preserved ancient villages with more than 1,200 years of history. Wander quiet lanes lined
with centuries-old laterite houses, historic communal buildings and soy sauce village to photograph ancient fermentation techniques and aged barrels
before enjoying a traditional lunch hosted by a local family. Continue to Tay Phuong Pagoda, one of Vietnam’s oldest Buddhist temples, celebrated for its
remarkable wooden architecture and collection of historic sculptures, before returning to Hanoi.
Day 4 (12-Feb 2027 Ha Long Bay L&D Included.
Cruise through the UNESCO-listed waters of Ha Long Bay, where emerald waters, dramatic karst formations and floating fishing villages provide endless
photographic opportunities. Travel to Tuan Chau Island, the main departure point for Ha Long Bay cruises, on a journey of approximately three and a half hours.
Embark on an unforgettable voyage into one of Vietnam’s most spectacular natural wonders. A short speedboat transfer takes you to your luxurious floating
home, the starting point for exploring Lan Ha Bay.
12:45 Go onboard Lyra Cruise and start your journey with breathtaking views of surreal limestone cliffs and jungle-topped islets. Capture picture-perfect
moments and watch the dramatic beauty of the bay unfold while enjoying your lunch of classic Vietnamese flavors.
In the afternoon, explore the Ao Ech area of the bay, access Lyra’s high-grade entertainment facilities for loads of fun-filled activities. You can choose to relax
in the infinity oasis pool and jacuzzi, experience the thrills of the inflatable water slide, swim and kayak around the crystal-clear waters of Lan Ha Bay or try a
mini golf on the top deck.
A private canoe will be arranged for you within one hour, allowing you to explore the bay at your leisure.
After all the fun and recreation, return to Lyra Cruise and prepare for a Vietnamese cooking demonstration by the chef. Your elegantly designed boat anchors
in the middle of the bay overnight and dinner is served on board. For your evening feast, indulge your taste buds with a mouth-watering array of dishes, made
from the freshest local ingredients. After your filling meal, enjoy night-time activities such as catching squid in the bay, watching a movie with free popcorn,
singing karaoke or playing board games. Retire to your luxurious suite and spend the night on board.
Day 5 (13-Feb-2027): Ha Long Bay – Ninh Binh (Lunch under own arrangement)
Wake up to the peaceful sounds and gentle morning breeze of Lan Ha Bay. Early risers can head up to the deck for some morning “Tai Chi” exercise session
on the deck. After your light breakfast, head out to explore the “Dark & Bright Cave” aboard a traditional rowing bamboo boat. Also known as “Day & Night
Grotto,” it is actually a system made up of two separate caves.
As you make your way toward the cave’s entrance, you will be welcomed by an angled passageway and a serene round lake surrounded by lush trees and precipitous stone cliffs.
09:00 Return to Lyra Cruise and enjoy a final brunch on board while cruising back to Tuan Chau Marina. Disembark from the cruise at 11:00.
Please note:
– Check out time is two hours prior to disembarkation. After this time, you will not be able to access your room, but you can continue enjoying the beautiful Bay views from the sundeck.
Vietnamese countryside. As you explore this rustic region, listen to stories from long ago in the rice fields and villages — places where Vietnam’s former kings
once lived and worshipped.
Upon arrival in Ninh Binh, and if time permits, visit Thung Nham Bird Garden, where thousands of birds gather among the wetlands and limestone
cliffs. Continue by visiting Bich Dong Pagoda, an ancient cave temple that was built in 1428 and features three levels nestled into Ngu Nhac Mountain.
Later, check into your hotel, where you can unwind and enjoy the facilities.
Day 6 (14-Feb-2027): Ninh Binh (Lunch under own arrangement)
Head out to explore more of Ninh Binh’s natural wonders and rural landscapes. Board a traditional wooden boat with a local paddler and drift through the
stunning Tam Coc caves to see impressive natural rock formations and the sacred Thai Vi temple, a beautiful sanctuary built in 1258 with exceptional stone
carvings.
Your next stop is Hang Mua, a must-visit attraction in Ninh Binh, not only for the cave itself but primarily because of its stunning panoramas. To reach the
viewpoint, ascend approximately 500 stone steps carved into the rock for a challenging yet rewarding adventure.
Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
Day 7 (15-Feb-2027): Ninh Binh – Hanoi – Hue (Lunch under own arrangement)
Visit Hoa Lu province, where an impressive 10th-century citadel and two lovingly preserved temples tell the intriguing tale of love and loyalty between
an emperor and his general. You have a few moments to rest and freshen up before checking out and beginning your journey to Noi Bai Airport in
Hanoi for your onward flight to Hue.
Flight details: VN1545 at 16:25-17:45
Upon arrival in Phu Bai Airport, transfer to your hotel in Hue.
Day 8 (16-Feb-2027): Hue – Land of the Royal (D)
In the morning, explore iconic landmarks of imperial Hue. Start with a scenic boat ride along the Perfume River, taking in the enchanting scenery along the
riverbanks as you make your way to Thien Mu Pagoda. One of the oldest religious monuments in Hue, the seven-story structure is featured in many Vietnamese folk songs and is considered an icon of the city. Then walk in the footsteps of Vietnamese emperors at the Imperial Citadel where the Nguyen Dynasty ruledbetween 1802 and 1945. The citadel still contains over 100 buildings, including the emperor’s living quarters in the Forbidden Purple City.
Next, visit one of the emperor’s tombs: the tomb of Tu Duc, the “Poet Emperor.” A lover of romance and eastern philosophies, the Emperor designed his own
tomb within an enchanting garden of pine trees and frangipanis overlooking a lake. Or the tomb of Khai Dinh or the tomb of Minh Mang. While Emperor Khai
Dinh’s tomb reflects the increasing influence of European style during his reign from 1916-1925, Emperor Minh Mang’s tomb was built during the height of
Nguyen dynasty power and presents a picturesque fusion of landscaping and architecture. Drop by an incense-making village to see how thin sticks of
bamboo are dyed and dried in a mixture of sandalwood, cinnamon or pine-scented powder. These ceremonial items are used at temples and
shrines all over Vietnam.
In the late afternoon, ride pillion on the back of a vintage Vespa for an exhilarating ride through lesser-seen parts of Hue. Witness the bright lights of the city
slowly give way to quieter, more residential streets as you ride towards the charming area at the top of Vong Canh Hill. Take in the stunning, panoramic views
from the top of the hill with a glass of champagne while contemplating the beauty of the Perfume River and Royal Valley, where members of the Nguyen dynasty
are buried. In clear skies, you may even catch sight of the setting sun beyond the horizon. Hop back on your Vespa to visit the home of the Doan family, a
typical local family with three generations living together under one roof. You are warmly invited for dinner with the family who are happy to share personal
stories about their home and traditional life in Hue.
Day 9 (17-Feb-2027): Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An
Transfer from Hue to Hoi An. En route, stop for some nice photoshoots in Lang Co Bay, Lap An Lagoon and Hai Van Pass.
Upon arrival in Da Nang, head out to explore the city’s cultural and natural wonders with a short stop at Dragon Bridge and My Khe beach. Visit the Cham
Museum which houses over 300 stone art treasures including sandstone carvings, alters, lings, garudas, ganeshas and images of Shiva, Brahma and Vishnu.
Next, set forth on a wildlife adventure in search of the “Queen of Primates” in the dense jungle of the Son Tra Peninsula. Rising 693 meters (2,275 feet)
above sea level, the Son Tra Peninsula towers over Da Nang city and is home to many animal species including a rare and endangered primate known as the
red-shanked douc langur. Considered the “Queen of Primates,” these beautiful creatures are distinguished by their colors; an orange face, white forearms,
deep red lower legs and black upper legs, hands and feet. There are about 300 red-shanked douc langurs in these forests, and you may catch a glimpse of
them today.
Please note: Your trekking guide will lead you to the best viewing spots within the national park; however, sightings cannot be guaranteed as they depend on
animal movements, weather conditions and other natural factors. Although you may not see them on this occasion, the walk through the jungle is just as
enjoyable.
Drive to Hoi An ancient town, and if time permits, pause for a visit to the Marble Mountains, which are named after the five elements of Chinese philosophy
(metal, water, wood, fire and earth). The mountains were once a Hindu sanctuary but were later dedicated to Buddha and Confucius. Today, several Buddhist shrines can be found within the caves of the mountains.
Arrive Hoi and check in at your beach hotel
Day 10 (18-Feb-2027): Hoi An Photo Journey
Sunrise Photography at a Hoi An Fishing Village:
Capture the rhythm of coastal life as Hoi An’s fishing community welcomes a new day. Rise before dawn to experience one of the ancient town’s
most photogenic morning scenes as local fishermen unload their catch ashore. Accompanied by a professional photography guide, venture to a
traditional fishing village where colorful boats, bustling markets and the soft morning light create exceptional opportunities to capture authentic
moments of everyday life. Whether using a DSLR, mirrorless or smartphone camera, receive personalized guidance on camera
settings, composition and photographing people in natural environments. Following the morning’s photography session, enjoy a local light
breakfast and coffee before returning to your hotel with a collection of memorable images and newly acquired creative techniques.
Later, delve into Hoi An’s rich artisanal heritage with visits to two of its most celebrated craft villages. At Kim Bong Carpentry Village, observe master craftsmen
preserving centuries-old woodworking traditions that helped shape Hoi An’s historic architecture. Continue to Thanh Ha Pottery Village, where generations of
artisans have perfected the art of ceramic making, before trying your hand at creating your own piece under the guidance of a local master.
Return to Hoi An in the afternoon. Your private vehicle and guide remain at your disposal this evening, allowing you to enjoy Hoi An after dark, when glowing
lanterns, riverside cafés and bustling markets create one of Vietnam’s most atmospheric evening settings.
Day 11 (19-Feb-2027): Hoi An – Quang Ngai – Quy Nhon – Phu Yen (L)
Journey south along Vietnam’s scenic central coastline to the tranquil province of Phu Yen. En route, stop at the striking Sa Huynh Salt Fields, where generations
of salt farmers continue to be one of the country’s oldest traditional industries, creating remarkable photographic opportunities. After lunch at a local restaurant,
continue to Nhon Ly Fishing Village, a peaceful coastal community known for its maze of narrow lanes, stone-fenced houses and vibrant murals.
Before arriving to Phu Yen, visit the Twin Towers of in Quy Nhon, an impressive pair of Cham monuments showcasing a unique blend of Champa and Khmer
architecture.
Arrive at your resort in the late afternoon and settle into your surroundings. The remainder of the day is yours to unwind at leisure, whether relaxing by the pool,
strolling along the beach or simply soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Day 12 (20-Feb-2027): Discovering Phu Yen (L)
Set out to discover the natural beauty and cultural charm of Phu Yen as you journey along Vietnam’s scenic National Highway 1A. Pause at the
spectacular Doc Gang pass, where breathtaking panoramic views unfold across Xuan Dai Bay, with its emerald coconut groves, pristine white-sand
beaches, crystal-clear waters and the picturesque coastal town of Song Cau stretching below.
Explore the natural and cultural highlights of Phu Yen, beginning at Ganh Da Dia (Da Dia Reef), where thousands of hexagonal basalt columns create one of Vietnam’s most extraordinary coastal landscapes. Continue to Mang Lang Church, one of the country’s oldest churches and home to the first printed book Written in the Vietnamese national script.
Later, photograph everyday life along Ong Cop Bridge If time permits, Vietnam’s longest wooden bridge, before heading to Tuy Hoa city, enjoy lunch at a local
restaurant. Next, visit Nhan Tower, an 11th-century Cham monument overlooking the Da Rang River. The tower is one of the most important remaining relics of the Champa civilization. Return to your resort.
Day 13 (21-Feb-2027): Phu Yen – Phu Cat Airport – Ho Chi Minh City
Rise early to experience the authentic rhythm of coastal life at Xuan Hai Fishing Village. Accompanied by your local guide, witness the lively morning
fish market as fishermen return with the day’s catch, offering a fascinating glimpse into the traditions that have shaped this seaside community for
generations.
Return to your resort for breakfast, with an optional stop at the serene Cu Mong Lagoon to admire and photograph its picturesque scenery. Enjoy
the remainder of the morning at leisure, taking advantage of the resort’s facilities before checking out and transferring to Phu Cat Airport for your
onward flight to Ho Chi Minh City.
Flight details: VN1391 at 13:55-15:10
Upon arrival in Tan Son Nhat Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City. Spend your downtime wandering through vibrant Ho Chi Minh
City.
Day 14 (22-Feb-2027): Ho Chi Minh City – Can Tho (Mekong Delta) (L)
Get an early start to see the city slowly come to life in the early morning. Begin with a leisurely ride by cyclo (a pedal-powered rickshaw) past Notre Dame
Cathedral and the Central Post Office, before the usual traffic starts. Stroll through a city park where locals gather for their daily tai chi practice or a game of
badminton and taste Vietnamese coffee at a scenic spot behind the Reunification Palace. Stop by the memorial dedicated to a Buddhist monk who famously
committed an act of self-immolation in 1963. Then hop on the back of a Vespa with a local driver at the helm to visit a local street market and a secret weapons
bunker hidden in a narrow house. Continue to the colorful flower market and enjoy a traditional bowl of pho at one of the city’s best noodle shops for breakfast.
A complimentary refreshment is available along the way.
After checking out of your hotel, journey approximately two hours from Ho Chi Minh City to the lush landscapes of the Mekong Delta, where a slower pace of
life unfolds along an intricate network of rivers and canals. Upon arrival, board a traditional wooden boat and cruise through the Tan My Canal, passing floating
fish farms and riverside homes. Visit a local floating fish farm and pause for a chat with the fishermen to gain insight about the local fishing industry before
continuing to a beeswax workshop, where you will learn about sustainable beekeeping and try your hand at making candles and traditional beehives.
Continue on foot through tropical orchards before boarding a sampan to glide beneath a canopy of nipa palms. Explore a fertile island by bicycle or electric
buggy, discovering fruit-filled gardens and visiting an abalone mushroom farm housed within a traditional Vietnamese home. Later, visit a charming garden
residence to sample seasonal fruits while learning about local life and the family’s gardening traditions. Following lunch, stop at a family-run winery renowned
for its home-made moonshine rice wine before returning by boat to the mainland.
Finally, take a two hours drive to Can Tho, the cultural heart of the Mekong Delta, where you will check in to your hotel for the evening.
Day 15 (23-Feb-2027): Can Tho – Ho Chi Minh City
The early bird catches the worm, as they say, and mornings in the Mekong Delta start at the break of dawn. Take a boat to Cai Rang floating market, a traditional
marketplace on water, where buyers and sellers haggle over fresh fruits and vegetables from their wooden boats. Filled with fresh, locally grown crops such as
oranges, pineapples, coconuts and watermelons, the floating marketplace is at its best in the early mornings.
Later, embark on a morning cycling adventure (2 hours with ten to twelve kilometers) through the picturesque countryside of Can Tho, the largest city in southern
Vietnam’s Mekong Delta region. From the meeting point, hop on your bike and pedal along village roads, where the daily rhythms of local life unfold before you.
Your first stop is the humble abode of a local family, where you are warmly welcomed with a refreshing drink. From there, make your way to a lively market and
enjoy a unique experience of crossing the river on a traditional ferry. Once on the other side, continue cycling past vibrant orchards, vegetable fields and tranquil
canals. Along the way, pause to admire a centuries-old heritage tree, a symbol of Vietnam’s natural beauty. Return to the meeting point and conclude with a
drive back to your hotel. This excursion offers more than just a scenic ride and leisurely cycling; it provides a genuine connection to the rustic charm of the
Mekong Delta.
Heading back to your hotel, make a visit the house of Binh Thuy, a French colonial mansion built in 1870 which has been featured in films such as “The Silt
Ways,” “The Bac Lieu Mandarin’s Son” and “The Lover.”
Check out your hotel and begin the journey back to Ho Chi Minh City. Your drive back to Ho Chi Minh City takes about three and a half hours, arriving in the
late afternoon.
Day 16 (24-Feb-2027): Ho Chi Minh City Departure
Transfer from your hotel to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your onward flight.
*** Please note: As photography is influenced by natural light, weather conditions and local activity, some locations may not always offer optimal shooting
conditions. Your guide may adjust the itinerary where possible to maximize photographic opportunities.
Executive fast track service is arranged for your international departure at the airport. An airport representative assists with the usual airline check-in procedures and accompanies you through express immigration control and express security before escorting you to the airport lounge or boarding gate.