SB TOUR | From Ho Chi Minh City: 5-Day Tour All-Inclusive

Traveling through Vietnam with a guide can transform what might seem like simple sightseeing into a genuine encounter with local life and history. This 5-day tour, offered at $692 per person, covers some of the region’s most iconic sites, from the Cu Chi Tunnels to the floating markets of Can Tho. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll experience the sights, sounds, and flavors that define southern Vietnam.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the mix of history and culture. You’ll visit the Cao Dai Holy See, where you’ll witness the colorful daily ceremony of a unique faith, and get a behind-the-scenes look at the Vietnam War history at the Cu Chi Tunnels. Plus, the boat rides through the Mekong Delta bring you into the heart of rural life.

One thing to consider is that this is a busy itinerary, with a fair amount of travel and walking, which might be tiring if you’re not accustomed to long days. But if you’re eager to see several highlights in a short period, this tour offers a lot of value. It suits travelers who appreciate a well-organized mix of cultural, historical, and scenic experiences, and who don’t mind the hustle of multiple sites over five days.

Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary: Visits to Cu Chi Tunnels, Cao Dai Holy See, floating markets, and more.
Authentic experiences: Witness a religious ceremony, tour war tunnels, and explore rural waterways.
All-inclusive cost: Transport, guides, entrance fees, and meals are included for ease.
Suitable for active travelers: Requires walking and some early mornings, especially at markets.
Family-friendly: With some considerations for younger children or those with back problems.
Good value: For the depth of experiences packed into five days, the price compares favorably with similar multi-day tours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

For broader city exploration in Ho Chi Minh City, we've covered these other tours

Day 1: Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City

Your adventure kicks off with a transfer to your hotel after arriving in Saigon. The city tour is a great introduction, offering quick glimpses of some of the most recognizable landmarks like Rex Square, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the historic Post Office. These sites aren’t just pretty pictures; they each tell stories of Vietnam’s colonial past and resilience.

We loved the way the city tour manages to fit in both history and local life, with guides explaining the significance of each spot. The Independence Palace and the War Museum deepen your understanding of Vietnam’s recent history without overwhelming.

Day 2: Cultural and War History

This day is a highlight for many. You’ll visit Tay Ninh Holy See, where a vibrant religious ceremony unfolds daily—an experience that’s colorful and surprisingly peaceful amid the religious fervor. Watching the ceremony gives you a glimpse into Caodaism, a unique blend of Buddhism, Christianity, and local beliefs.

Later, a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels offers a sobering look at Vietnam War history. The tunnels are a vast network, and guided tours often include opportunities to crawl through some sections. The guides emphasize the strategic importance and the resilience of the Vietnamese fighters, making it more than just a tourist stop.

One reviewer remarked, “We loved the way the tunnels show how ingenuity and perseverance helped the Vietnamese during the war,” which captures the emotional impact.

Day 3: Into the Mekong Delta

A scenic drive south takes you to My Tho, the gateway to the Mekong Delta. Here, you’ll see a different side of Vietnam—rural, bustling, and full of life. Visiting local fruit gardens, sampling tropical fruits, and listening to traditional folk songs are all simple joys that make this day memorable.

The boat ride from My Tho to Can Tho introduces you to the delta’s intricate network of canals and floating villages. It’s a chance to see locals going about their daily routines — fishing, trading, and living on the water. Ninh Kieu Quay in Can Tho is a lively spot perfect for an evening stroll.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 4: Floating Market and Historic House

Early mornings in the Mekong Delta mean heading to Cai Rang Floating Market, a lively hub where boats laden with fruits and vegetables line up to trade. The scene is bustling, and you’ll love watching vendors call out their wares and barter.

Back on land, the Binh Thuy Ancient House offers a glimpse into traditional architecture and local history, providing a peaceful contrast to the lively market. Returning to Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll reflect on the contrast between rural life and the city’s frenetic energy.

While you're exploring Ho Chi Minh City, here are other experiences we've looked into

Day 5: Departure and Reflection

The last morning is yours to relax or do some last-minute shopping before heading home. The tour includes all transportation, guiding, and meals, making it straightforward and hassle-free.

What the Tour Really Offers

This tour’s strength is its carefully curated mix of history, culture, and scenery. The guided visits are informative without feeling rushed, and the inclusion of meals and accommodations simplifies planning.

While it’s a good value, keep in mind that the group size and timing (early mornings at markets, long drives) might not suit everyone. If you’re looking for a relaxed or luxury experience, you might feel the pace a bit quick. However, for those eager to maximize their short trip to southern Vietnam, this tour delivers plenty of bang for your buck.

Transportation & Guides

Travel is by air-conditioned vehicle, which keeps you comfortable during drives through busy roads and scenic countryside. The guides are fluent in English and Vietnamese, balancing informative commentary with friendly interaction, adding authenticity to your experience.

Price & Value

At $692, the price includes all major expenses—entrance fees, meals, accommodations, and boats. Given the number of sites visited and the variety of experiences, it’s a good deal compared to piecemeal travel arrangements.

Practical Tips

Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water. The weather is warm and humid. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or wheelchair users due to the physical aspects of some visits and walking.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This itinerary suits active travelers who want a well-rounded taste of southern Vietnam in a manageable timeframe. If you’re curious about Vietnamese history and culture, love scenic boat rides, and enjoy organized sightseeing with guides, this tour hits the right notes. It’s also a good choice for families or groups who want a hassle-free way to see some major highlights with all logistics handled.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day Vietnam tour offers a smart way to see a lot without feeling rushed. The blend of history, religion, rural life, and vibrant markets ensures travelers leave with a well-rounded understanding of southern Vietnam. The inclusion of meals, transportation, and entrance fees makes it straightforward and good value.

While some days involve early starts and long drives, the diversity of experiences makes it worth the effort. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a guided, worry-free introduction to Vietnam’s southern attractions in a short period.

If you’re after an authentic, immersive, and well-organized way to explore Ho Chi Minh City and its surrounding regions, this tour ticks many boxes—and for a reasonable price.

FAQ

What sites are included in the tour?
You’ll visit Ho Chi Minh City’s main landmarks, the Cao Dai Holy See, Cu Chi Tunnels, Cai Rang Floating Market, Binh Thuy Ancient House, and scenic rural canals of Can Tho.

Are all meals included?
Yes, breakfast is included daily, and lunch and dinner are provided at local restaurants, giving you a chance to enjoy regional cuisine.

Is transportation comfortable?
Transportation is by air-conditioned vehicle, providing a comfortable way to cover the distances between sites.

What should I bring?
Pack comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, camera, and plenty of water. The weather is warm and humid, so light clothing helps.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It can be, but consider the physical demands. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users.

How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers a taste of Vietnam’s contrasting scenes and stories, all wrapped into an accessible, thoughtfully organized package. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply curious about Vietnam’s vibrant life, it’s a great way to cover a lot of ground in just five days.