A land of dense jungle, beautiful bays and fields of rice patties, Vietnam has spectacular scenery and a rich cultural history. Despite the many occupations, invasions and wars that have been fought within its borders over the last several centuries, Vietnam has retained its beauty, mystique and exotic flavor. From eating bowls of steaming pho to walking the streets of Hanoi, tourists’ senses will be overwhelmed with natural beauty and rich culture of Vietnam. If you have been dying to venture to Vietnam, but aren’t sure where to go or the best places to see, a great solution is signing up for a great adventure tour. In 3 weeks or less, you can see and do all of the greatest things in Vietnam with the help of local and knowledgeable guides.

So, ok, I know what you are thinking, and no, travel tours aren’t just for old ladies on big buses anymore. The truth is travel tours have come a long way since the days of giant air-conditioned buses and old ladies. Today there are tours designed specifically for the independent, adventure traveler.

That’s right—active, interesting and adventurous tours that allow travelers to explore and experience a foreign place. The groups are kept small, usually capping out at 16 people, so you won’t be traveling around with some awkwardly huge group of gawking tourists. You’ll be taking in the beautiful vistas of Ha Long Bay, boating on jungled rivers, and visiting amazing beaches and quaint fishing villages—these tours don’t just scratch the surface of the places you visit. In fact, by using a combination of local and experienced guides, you’ll often see and experience MORE than you would on your own. The local guides know the best places to take you and best foods for you to try. Oh, and don’t worry, you definitely won’t be experiencing Vietnam from the window of some bus the entire time. Even the shorter Vietnam adventure tours have travelers moving about on boats, by train, on foot, and local wheeled taxis called cyclos. Between visiting important temples and historical sights, eating the delicious local cuisine, wading past rice paddies and seeing some of the world’s most beautiful scenery, you won’t be sorry you booked one of these three great adventure tours.

Reunification Express

This 15 day tour will have you traveling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City on board one of the world’s most fascinating train journeys. The Reunification Express is a vital lifeline between north and south Vietnam and chugging along the railway, you’ll get to experience the scenic, historical, cultural and culinary highlights of this marvelous country. From visiting the imperial Thai Hoa Palace to traveling through coastal rice paddies and over mountain passes to eating and hanging out in scenic fishing villages, this tour has a little bit of everything. ‘All aboard’, for a ride you’ll never forget.

Vietnam Unplugged

Trace the eastern coastline of mystical Vietnam, traversing the country from south to north and unplugging the many attractions that lie along the way. From the modern chaos of Ho Chi Minh City all the way up to old-world Hanoi, you’ll experience tumultuous history, colonial charm, vibrant colors and inspiring scenery on this fun-filled adventure. Over the course of 15 days, you’ll cruise the Mekong River, visit old temples, shop in eclectic markets, and indulge in fresh seafood.

Taste of Vietnam

Without a doubt Vietnam has some of the tastiest cuisine in the world, not least because eating and preparing food is intrinsic to the Vietnamese way of life. The French have left their mark as well, and you’ll find fresh baguettes, exquisite pastries and strong sweet coffee everywhere you go! This is a trip that lets you dine your way from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, indulging all your senses in delicious tastes and tantalizing aromas, while traveling in comfort and style. This 15 day tour leaves from Hanoi and has guests seeing, feeling and tasting all the most wonderful things Vietnam has to offer.