The Globetrotting Teacher

Tour Review: Intrepid Travel Vietnam Express Southbound

Traveling in Vietnam with Intrepid Travel on their Vietnam Express Southbound 10-day tour is everything that’s terrific and transformative about travel.

This was my 2nd Intrepid tour, completely different from the incredible  Okavango Experience , but just as unforgettable, educational, gratifying, and culturally immersive in a way that is unique to Vietnam and the travelers and guide I was lucky enough to explore and experience with.

In this guide, I’ll not only share my complete review of my time with Intrepid Travel in Vietnam, but I’ll also do my best to explain the intangibles about why small group travel with Intrepid is so special.

Spoiler Alert! If you’re considering the  Intrepid Travel Vietnam Express Southbound  tour, don’t hesitate. Book it and go with an open heart and curious mind for a not-to-be-forgotten trip!

hanoi Vietnam Tea

This 10-day Vietnam Express Southbound tour starts in the north, in Vietnam’s capital city of Hanoi, and ends in Ho Chi Minh City in the south. 

In between, the tour itinerary takes you to popular spots in Vietnam including Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, and the Mekong Delta. And, in a way that’s unique to Intrepid, you not only see those must-see sights but also learn about the country’s history, culture, and experience local daily life.

It’s that last part about the local culture, daily life, and the people you meet along the way that’ll flash through your mind long after your trip to Vietnam is done.

What Happens While Traveling in Vietnam with Intrepid

It would be easy to share a list of all the popular sights and activities you’ll see and do while in Vietnam with Intrepid. But I’d be leaving out so many moments that make this trip so much more than just another Vietnam sightseeing trip!

When you travel with Intrepid, you get to mix must-see sights, off-the-beaten-path stops, and interactions with locals you wouldn’t be able to have otherwise had you traveled independently.

Intrepid’s Vietnam Express Southbound Itinerary

No doubt if you’re considering this tour, you’ve read through the day-by-day itinerary on Intrepid’s website. I’ve put together this video to show how memorable just these highlights are all by themselves.

But, there are so many other unforgettable moments you don’t see in the trip outline. These moments are unique to your group and your guide but give a glimpse of how amazing it is to travel with a company like Intrepid that wholeheartedly believes in the powerful impact of authentic local experiences. What You Don’t See

I purposefully didn’t include activities I did outside of the tour. However, if you look at the Intrepid itinerary, you’ll notice the first day doesn’t start until 6 pm and the last day is open for the group to do independent activities or depart as warranted by their travel plans.

I took these opportunities to see more of Vietnam. Before the 6 pm meeting on Day 1, I joined the Urban Adventures Hanoi Morning Highlights Tour and then used the afternoon to wander independently and visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex and Stilt House. It was great to have this time to do some sightseeing in Hanoi.

On the last day, I went with Urban Adventures to tour the Cu Chi Tunnels just outside Ho Chi Minh City…an absolute must! The tunnels and how they were built and used are utterly fascinating. Back in the city just after midday, I independently visited Independence Palace and did some more shopping at the Ben Thanh Market.

Practical Details

If you’ve never traveled with a tour before or with Intrepid, you’re probably wondering about some of the logistics, as well as who you’ll be traveling with.

Before You Go:

Intrepid requires travel insurance for all travelers no matter which tour it is.  World Nomads  provides travel insurance for all types of trips, travelers, and budgets.

Vietnam requires U.S. residents to get a Visa to enter the country. Luckily, it’s an easy process that can be done online. You can apply for one at the  Vietnam e-Visa web portal . You have to upload a photo of yourself and pay $25. After that, it takes about 3 business days to get your e-Visa. It’s valid for a single entry 30-day Vietnam Visa.

Southeast Asia has a hot, humid climate. And, countries like Vietnam also dress conservatively. This combination means you want lightweight, loose-fitting clothing with enough skin coverage. Moisture-wicking fabric is also great for travel because when you want to wash it out, it dries quickly.

Specifically for this Intrepid Vietnam tour, pack a  sleep sheet  (or an old sheet you can use and leave behind to lighten your bag) and this  compressible pillow  for the train from Hanoi to Hue like I did. I slept comfortably on a clean sheet! And, what I love about that pillow is it packs down small but expands to be nearly the size of a regular pillow. (I took it on my other incredible Intrepid trip to camp in the  Okavango Delta , too!)

On the Trip:

Who is the guide.

Hue Vietnam Intrepid Guide

Intrepid hires and works with guides who are locals that live in and are experts on the places visited on the tour itinerary. By doing so, it’s a win-win for you, the traveler, and the local community.

First, some of the money you pay for the tour pays these guides. Enough said, right? No matter where we are from, we all know how empowering and impactful a job is for the individual, their families, and communities.

Along with this, you, the traveler, get a guide with first-hand cultural and location-based knowledge who inevitably opens doors for an immersive, authentic look at daily life.

Nam was the guide for our group and not only could he talk about the history of a specific temple or make sure the group allowed enough time to get from one place to another, but he also recommended local places to eat, showed us how to smoke that bamboo tube pipe you see people passing in Hanoi, and stopped in the countryside at a burial site to explain more about the rituals and beliefs Vietnamese have about death and their ancestors.

Who travels with Intrepid?

Mekong Delta Vietnam

From 20s-70s, hailing from all over the world, Intrepid travelers are adventurous travel-lovers who welcome authentic experiences no matter where they are.

Both of my Intrepid groups have been a perfect blend of exactly that combination. There have been Americans, Aussies, Europeans, and Canadians traveling solo, as a couple, with friends, or as a family whether for a first-time out-of-college travel experience or celebrating a 30-year wedding anniversary.

The best part is they’re all travel lovers who are ready to explore! And, if you’re lucky like I’ve been, you’ll come away with travel memories and lasting friendships.

What are the accommodations like?

Hue Vietnam Hotel

Intrepid has different types of tours, Basix, Original, and Comfort. This Vietnam Express Southbound tour is Original. Hotels are typically comfortable 3-star hotels for this type of tour.

All the hotels from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh were modern with relatively spacious rooms located conveniently in each city so we could walk to restaurants, shops, markets, and popular sights. Not all Intrepid tours stay at the same hotels but for reference, this is  the hotel  our group stayed at in Hue.

The one exception was in Hoi An, where the hotel was a 10-minute walk outside the old town and more of a 2-star hotel compared to the others where we stayed.

This  Vietnam Express Southbound tour  has 2 nights not spent in hotels, too.

In Ha Long Bay, we slept on our own junk boat. Each of us had our own cabins with ensuite bathrooms, fans, and air conditioning. Since I was traveling on my own, I had a cabin with 2 twin beds. On the main deck, there was an enclosed dining room, with outdoor deck seating at both ends of the boat.

HalongBayCabin

We also took an overnight train from Hanoi to Hue. Intrepid books “First Class” cabins but it’s important to understand trains in Vietnam are not like the sleeper trains you might find in Europe, for example. We had private cabins for only our group but each cabin has 2 sets of bunks, sleeping 4 people in each. I shared with 3 other girls in the group and slept comfortably. The bathroom is shared among the car occupants.

HanoiTrainCabin

I did bring my own sleeping sheet and used my travel pillow and  recommend you do the same . I loved waking up early to watch the Vietnamese countryside fly by from my window.

How does the group travel?

For the majority of the time, you’ll travel by private, air-conditioned van arranged by Intrepid. We did also take the boat out for the day and night onto Ha Long Bay, the train to Hue, and a short flight to get from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh. We flew on SkyTeam Alliance member, Vietnam Airlines.

What happens for meals?

HueVietnamMeal

Expect some of the best food ever! Not just with the included meals, but also because you have a local guide at your disposal who can recommend the best places to eat depending on what you want or need to meet any dietary restrictions. I’m a vegetarian and never lacked for anything delicious to eat.

Breakfasts are included in the tour, and typically part of the hotel breakfasts which offered complete western and Vietnamese breakfast foods. A few lunches and dinners throughout the 10 days are part of the tour, as well.

On the first night in Hanoi, our group had a delicious first meal together at KOTO, a restaurant partnered with the Intrepid Foundation. (If you didn’t know, Intrepid is a B Corp, which means they’ve committed to be a force for good and to put purpose before profit.) KOTO is a program that trains disadvantaged kids in hospitality and culinary skills.

Lunch and dinner were included on the Ha Long Bay cruise. We had a feast of local specialties that were prepared onboard with more than enough to satisfy our whole group. I’m a vegetarian and the group also had a few picky eaters, as well as someone who needed gluten-free meals. All of us were accommodated.

We had an incredible (all vegetarian!) lunch at a Buddhist monastery. I wish I could go back and get more cooked banyan fruit! 

The tour also included another feast lunch at a house restaurant in the Mekong Delta. 

Should You Book the Vietnam Express Southbound Tour with Intrepid? 

hanoi vietnam daily life

If you’ve read and watched this far,  Intrepid’s Vietnam Express Southbound tour  is calling your name!

This tour is right for you if you want to spend time sightseeing in Vietnam, but you also have a genuine curiosity about the Vietnamese people, culture, and daily life.

You’ll absolutely love this tour if you want a mix of group time, where the logistics are taken care of, and free time, when you can explore or relax as you want.

And you’ll definitely want to join in if you enjoy meeting other travel-lovers from around the world who are just as game as you to experience new things, taste new foods, and let the transformative power of travel expand their minds and hearts.

What questions do you have about traveling on the Vietnam Express Southbound tour with Intrepid?

Like this post? Please share it on social media using the share buttons below.

Disclosure: I was a guest of Intrepid Travel all opinions are my own…Easy to do when Intrepid makes travel so unforgettable!

Related posts.

Peyto Lake Icefields Parkway Canada

Why You Should Drive the Icefields Parkway + Trip Planning Tips

Moraine Lake Banff National Park

3 Reasons to Visit Banff National Park Immediately

2 thoughts on “tour review: intrepid travel vietnam express southbound”.

intrepid travel vietnam review

Loved reading this review. Answered every single question I had. Thank you 🙂

intrepid travel vietnam review

Thanks so much for reading, Barbara. I’m glad the review was helpful!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our credit card rating methodology .

Intrepid Travel Review – the Largest “Small Group” Adventure Travel Company

Amar Hussain's image

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury's image

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

Kellie Jez's image

Director of Operations & Compliance

Countries Visited: 10 U.S. States Visited: 20

Intrepid Travel Review – the Largest “Small Group” Adventure Travel Company

Who Are Intrepid Travel Tours Good For?

Intrepid travel styles, destinations, intrepid australia, intrepid cambodia, intrepid costa rica, intrepid cuba, intrepid egypt, intrepid greece, intrepid iceland, intrepid india, intrepid jordan, intrepid morocco, intrepid peru, intrepid sri lanka, intrepid vietnam, intrepid travel reviews, intrepid travel vs. g adventures, intrepid travel insurance, intrepid promo code, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Traveling the world is an exciting adventure, but for many, it can be a stressful experience. Worries of safety, navigation, and tackling language barriers can be enough to put off many travelers, especially if you’re considering going solo.

Intrepid has been operating small group tours for over 30 years and is one of the major leaders in the industry. You can choose from over 1,000 tours to 100 destinations, selecting the comfort level that suits your budget and travel style. You’ll be guided throughout your journey — right from the point of booking — with advice on visas , currency, and other essential trip information .

Intrepid has been a fully carbon-neutral company since 2010 by investing in projects that actively reduce CO2 emissions. So you can feel safe in the knowledge that you’re traveling as green as possible while embarking on your adventure. Intrepid small group tours usually accommodate up to 16 people but tend to have an average of around 10.

Solo Travelers

Intrepid Solo Travel

Most of us have been in a situation where we’ve been desperate to go traveling, but none of our friends or family are in the position to go with us. You’re then left with the dilemma of going it alone or missing out on the experience altogether. Thankfully, that’s where a small group tour can help.

Even though you’re traveling solo, you’re never really alone on an Intrepid tour. There are rarely single supplement rates as you’ll buddy up with another traveler of the same gender. Of course, you still have the option to upgrade to your own room if you would like to.

Friends or Groups

Intrepid Friends and Groups

Joining a tour with a group of friends is great if you like the idea of spending time with them while also being open to mixing with other people. No one likes being the organizer, so joining a small group tour eliminates the pressure from 1 person having to book everything and manage payments. You’re all equal participants on an Intrepid tour.

Intrepid Family Travel

If you’re traveling with children under 17 , you’re welcome to join a family tour. Let someone else do the organizing and navigating so that you can enjoy the experience of traveling with your family . An Intrepid family tour can be a fun and educational experience for your child and can help them gain confidence by interacting with new people.

Hot Tip:  You might have a long flight or some lengthy road trips to contend with. Prepare yourself with some entertainment by checking out the best podcasts and audiobooks for travel .

If you’re on a budget or believe that a hotel is simply somewhere to rest your head for the night, a Basix Tour could be for you. This tour style focuses on simple accommodation (such as camping or homestays) and lots of free time, so you’re not spending money on excursions that you have no interest in.

Original Tours combine tourist-class accommodation (2- to 3-star hotels) with local and private transport. There’s a blend of planned excursions and independent exploration , suiting those travelers looking for a balance between guided local knowledge and free time.

Comfort Tours feature more comfortable and unique accommodation with more frills than the Basix and Original Tours. Private transport is used throughout, and these tours run at a slower pace with exploration and activities usually led by a guide.

Intrepid Travel Tour Themes and Destinations

18 to 29s tours.

18 to 29s Tours

As the name suggests, these tours are specifically for those that fall into the 18- to 29-years-old age bracket and tend to cover the highlights of a destination with lots of free time. With around 10 people per tour, there are plenty of opportunities for making friends , while also allowing you to explore independently if you prefer.

Hot Tip: Contiki is a similar tour company that caters to young travelers in a similar age bracket —  18 to 35 years old. Some tours can accommodate much larger groups, upwards of 50 people. Read more about the tour types and destinations in our Contiki review !

Adventure Cruising

Intrepid Adventure Cruises

Adventure Cruises accommodate less than 50 passengers  so the ships can explore places that large cruise liners can’t reach. Groups are large enough to socialize with various travelers but are small enough to feel that your arrival on land doesn’t swarm a destination impacting that local experience.

Hot Tip: Our ultimate cruise vacation packing checklist helps ensure that you have everything you need to be dressed for any occasion.

Cycling Tours

Intrepid Cycling Tours

Cycling Tours are an excellent way to enjoy the journey and the destination , peddling along with incredible views and authentic encounters. Each tour has a physical rating , so you can determine whether the trip is right for you, and includes a tour leader and support vehicle.

Hot Tip: If you’re an adventure seeker, you’ll want to pack all of the essentials for your next active vacation.

Family Tours

Intrepid Family Tours

Family Tours consist of family-friendly activities and accommodation mixed with flexible free time. Your tour leader will be specifically trained in family travel with groups accommodating 3 to 5 like-minded families.

Intrepid Food Tours

Food Tours will give you a true flavor of some of the world’s most famous culinary destinations . Discover fresh food markets and local restaurants, or try your hand at a cooking class.

Lonely Planet Experiences

Intrepid Lonely Planet Tours

Intrepid has partnered with Lonely Planet to provide exciting tours for adventurous and independent travelers. Seek out the mountain gorillas of Uganda or ride the bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto. You’ll have a knowledgeable local leader and can read all about the destination before your trip with 12 months of free access to the Lonely Planet app .

Hot Tip:  Tours often include a fair bit of walking to see the sights, so you’ll need a good pair of hiking boots or shoes . 

Polar Tours

Intrepid Polar Tours

They may be polar opposites, but the Arctic Circle and the Antarctic have 1 thing in common — they’re both incredible destinations. Look out for polar bears and the Northern Lights in the Arctic and kayak among breaching whales in the Antarctic. Exploration ships have modern amenities , and expert leaders hold interesting seminars and guide travelers on exciting excursions.

Hot Tip: One of our writers sailed to Antarctica on a trip booked through Intrepid .

Intrepid Retreats

Retreats are short breaks that could be just a short drive or flight from your home, where you live and explore as the locals do . All retreats feature 1 accommodation, so you’ll only have to unpack once with all your free time spent immersing yourself in the local community rather than traveling.

Other Tour Themes

  • Active Adventures
  • Expeditions
  • Short Breaks
  • Tailor Made
  • Urban Adventures
  • Walking and Trekking
  • Women’s Expeditions

Hot Tip:  Avoid the temptation of pickpockets and keep your hands free to explore with these crossbody bags and purses . 

Intrepid Travel offers over 1,000 tours to over 100 countries within these continents and regions:

  • Antarctica/Arctic
  • Australia and Oceania
  • Central America
  • Middle East
  • North America
  • South America

Intrepid Travel Top Tours

Uluru Australia

From lush rainforests and glistening beaches to baron deserts and cosmopolitan cities, Australia is a country of contrasts. Every region is uniquely different, and due to the sheer size of the country, it’s unlikely that you’ll get to see everything in a single trip. Most tours stick within a particular region . You could be snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, heading out to Kangaroo Island, or exploring the vineyards of the Margaret River.

  • Includes transportation, accommodation, most meals, and some excursions

Hot Tip:  As flights are not included in the tour price, you may want to check out the best ways to fly to Australia with points and miles

Angkor Wat Cambodia

The Cambodian people are the country’s shining stars. Incredibly friendly with smiles all around, this inspiring nation has risen from the 1970s bloodshed of the Khmer Rouge and welcomes visitors with open arms. It’s an unforgettable moment seeing the sunrise over Angkor Wat or spotting a rare freshwater dolphin swimming along the Mekong Delta.

  • Includes transportation, accommodation, some meals, and most activities

Costa Rica Tour

With an ecotourism scene , farm-to-table restaurants, and unspoiled natural surroundings, it’s not surprising that Costa Rica’s motto is “Pura Vida” – the pure life. Spot toucans in the mysterious cloud forests, try your hand at a surf lesson, or glide through treetop canopies on a zipline adventure. There is so much to see and do in Costa Rica , and with a tour, you can let someone else do the driving.

  • Includes transportation, accommodation, and some activities

Hot Tip:  Intrepid tours use locally run guesthouses, homestays, and restaurants to support local communities rather than large chains.

Cuba Tour

When you think of Cuba, you think of colorful colonial buildings, vintage cars, and turquoise waters. But there is so much more to see apart from the vibrant capital Havana and its beautiful beaches. Head out to Vinales to tour a traditional tobacco plantation or enjoy some salsa dancing in historical Trinidad.

  • Includes transportation, accommodation, and excursions

Egypt Tour

Egypt is a land of ancient wonders with a history as long as the Nile itself. Marvel at the magnificent pyramids and bargain for souvenirs in the bustling bazaars of Cairo. Sail down the River Nile on a traditional felucca and discover the ancient city of Luxor and the Valley of the Kings.

  • Includes transportation, accommodation, excursions, and some meals

Greece Tour

Discover the ancient ruins of Athens before crossing the Aegean to island-hop your way between the beautiful Greek islands. Weave your way around the cute whitewashed houses of Santorini or explore the clifftop ruins of Delphi. Greece is also renowned for its nightlife , whether you’re looking for a quiet bar to watch the sunset or a club to dance into the early hours.

Icealand Tour

From bubbling hot springs to mountain glaciers, and lush green landscapes to frozen waterfalls, Iceland’s diverse landscape is one of the main attractions that draw visitors to the land of fire and ice. That and the prospect of catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Take a dip in the famous Blue Lagoon or simply chat with locals in Reykjavik or any of the friendly coastal towns.

India Tour

India captivates many visitors with its thriving culture, historical sights, wild beaches, and wildlife. The busy cities and sometimes intense atmosphere prevent many from venturing to India independently, and taking a tour can alleviate the pressure . If you love exploring temples, then you’re in for a treat as India has millions.

Jordan Tour

Soak up the history of the Silk Road, explore the mysterious deserts of Wadi Rum, and visit the magnificent ruins of Petra. Jordan is a haven for history buffs and adventurers alike . For a more relaxed pace, travelers can watch an Arabian sunrise from their Bedouin camp or float in the mineral-rich Red Sea, enjoying every minute of the famous Jordanian hospitality.

  • Includes transportation, accommodation, and some meals and excursions

Morocco Tour

Wander around chaotic and colorful Marrakesh before changing up the scenery with a trip into the Atlas Mountains where you can hike and visit a Berber village. Amble across the Sahara Desert by camel to reach your Bedouin camp or enjoy yoga or surfing in the coastal towns of Essaouira and Taghazout.

Peru Tour

Hike within the Andes to reach Machu Picchu — the most well-preserved archeological site for ancient Incan civilizations. Although these mountain ruins are the most visited attraction in Peru , there is so much more to this incredible country. Tours will take you to the unique islands of Lake Titicaca, Colca Canyon, and deep into the Amazon Jungle in search of black alligators.

  • Includes transportation, accommodation, meals, and porters (guided hike)

Hot Tip:  Mosquitoes and other biting bugs can be found all over the world. If you prefer to steer clear of DEET-based repellents, take a look at the best natural insect repellents to help protect you.

Sri Lanka Tour

Due to its modest size, you can see a lot of Sri Lanka in a small space of time . Not that a trip to this enchanting country should be rushed. Savor your journey around the ever-changing landscapes, from the vast plains of the north, the rocky mountains and rain forests of the center, and beautiful beaches framing most of the rugged coastline. See the largest gathering of Asian elephants or go in search of the elusive leopard. The food is delicious, the culture is captivating, and the people are friendly.

  • Includes transportation, accommodation, and some excursions and meals

Vietnam Tour

All who visit Vietnam are blown away by its natural beauty . Watch farmers harvest rice from the colorful fields or sail around the towering limestone rocks of Halong Bay. The powdery white beaches of Phu Quoc Island are glorious, and wondrous waterfalls and caves make for fantastic photo opportunities. If variety is what you’re after, that is exactly what you’ll get visiting Vietnam. One minute you’re negotiating swarms of motorcycles crossing the road in Hanoi and the next your rafting peacefully down the rivers of Ninh Binh.

Hot Tip:  Find out the best ways to fly to Vietnam with points and miles . Currently, there are no direct routes from the U.S. to Vietnam, but with Vietnam Airlines recently receiving the required Air Carrier Permit, this could be on the horizon.

Intrepid Travel is well-reviewed across many of the major review sites. Many customers have recently taken to these sites to negatively review Intrepid’s cancellation and refund policy in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

  • Trustpilot : 2.8 out of 5
  • TourRadar : 4.6 out of 5
  • Facebook : 4.9 out of 5

These are some reviews from Intrepid’s most popular tours, and more can be found on the individual destination pages :

Great Ocean Road Adventure ex Adelaide “Great little trip from Adelaide to Melbourne if you’re short on time and want to see the Great Ocean Road. The guide was excellent and the itinerary packed a lot in!” — Kaitlyn

Cambodian Traveller “A good introduction to the country stopping at the main points of interest. Would highly recommend Intrepid as its a well organized operation which takes the difficulties out of traveling in a less developed country where you don’t speak the language. The tour guide was a great help, knowledgeable, enthusiastic and kind. A great trip.” — Imogen

Classic Costa Rica “This has been my third trip with Intrepid. As usual I enjoyed it immensely. This trip deserves additional high praise. Their guides as usual are top class, very knowledgeable and approachable. They show not only in words but actions, how looking after the environment is a major part of Intrepids policy.” — John

Hola Cuba – for US citizens “The Hola Cuba Trip For US Citizens is an excellent introduction to Cuba, it’s people and their culture. The trip provides glimpses into the urban cultures of Habana, Trinidad and Cienfuegos while also allowing travelers to see the quieter lives of those in Viñales and Las Terrazas. Our guide Andy was very knowledgeable of the history a culture of his homeland and did an amazing job of sharing the beauty of Cuba through experience and storytelling. I absolutely recommend this trip for travelers thirsty to learn about Cuba and its people.” — Jason

Egypt Experience “Our group traveling in Egypt was a group of 10- a perfect number. Our leader was mature, very knowledgeable, organized, and treated us all with respect. He did not hover over us and gave us information to make decisions. To visit the antiquities of Egypt was amazing and we had plenty of time to absorb these awesome sites. Our visit to a Nubian village and share a family meal was special. This trip is highly recommended.” — Margaret & Tom

Sail Greece: Santorini to Mykonos “Our sailing adventure true Greek islands was an unforgettable experience! If You love sailing and want to see a real beauty of Greece this trip is for you. Swimming and snorkeling in turquoise water, cave exploration, hiking, beautiful sunsets, sunrises and delicious food are all guaranteed. Great mixture of adventure, relaxation and fun. We also had the best skipper ever, Rita. She was so friendly and knowledgeable. Took the best care of us.! Unbelievable woman with a great personality. She shows us so many beautiful places that we couldn’t even imagine. The boat was way over 10 years old, not 5 as in booklet. All through we had a great trip with great people :)” — Marcin

Northern Lights Escape “I had huge expectations of Iceland. My 6 day Intrepid small group tour (9 of us), met them all. Stefano, our guide, was fantastic – funny, knowledgeable and took great care of us. The itinerary allowed us to see and experience all the amazing highlights of Iceland, and more, even though we didn’t luck out with the aurora. Our tour was early March, so everything was white. I’d do it all again in a flash, and will return and do it in summer, too! I highly recommend Intrepid. Just do it!” — Margi

India’s Golden Triangle – For Solo Travellers “This trip was fantastic! I wasn’t sure what to expect as I hadn’t done anything like this before but I’m so glad I booked it. All the hotels were of a good standard as were the tours and transport. Shakti was a fantastic tour leader as was the group I travelled with. I will cherish the memories of this trip forever. I can’t wait to book another trip!” — Chantal

Trek Jordan “Great trip. Ticked all the boxes I was looking for. Loved floating in the Dead Sea and the accommodation there was outstanding. Petra was awesome, especially the trek to the Monastery. That was a great day. Loved trekking Wadi Rum too. What a landscape – no wonder they used it for “The Martian” and other movies. And our guide Muhammad was brilliant – couldn’t have asked for better!” — Robert

Best of Morocco “Intrepid provided an authentic and special experience. I knew my money was going to the people who needed it most. Due to Intrepid’s dedication to providing socially and environmentally conscious tours, the tour drew a unique, like-minded group of people who shared similar values and an appreciation of diverse cultures and the environment. This, along with the exceptional tour guide, are why I will continue to travel with Intrepid in the future. Thank you for a trip of a lifetime!” — Penelope

Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu Extension “This may not be the Inca Trail, but it is still beautiful and cultural. To stand in the Andes and listen to the silence, there are no words. It is still pristine as you wander up through farming communities and then on to the highlands. The waterfall is rather spectacular also and of course Machu Picchu itself. If you are lucky enough to have Kleberth Ovalle as your guide, you will leave much enriched.” — Deb

Cycle Sri Lanka “A wonderful experience to cycle through the country, meeting the local communities and sampling the local food. Some days the terrain was challenging and I was pleased I had an e-bike! Our guide Dodan was enthusiastic, well informed and always went above and beyond the call of duty. A great holiday and one I would thoroughly recommend.” — Heather

Vietnam Express Northbound “This trip gave an excellent overview of Vietnam. The presence of a guide made navigating a country with such a different language and culture to ours much easier. The transport was safe and well organised. Hotels were well situated and clean. We had plenty opportunities to explore on our own but there was always plenty of advice offered about places to avoid.” — Carol

Intrepid Travel and G Adventures are very similar in their product offerings, both offering a wide range of destinations and tour types. Intrepid has over 1,000 tours to over 100 counties , so it does exceed G Adventures’ 700 tours if the range is a factor for you.

Price-wise, both operators are pretty much on par with each other , but if you are comparing a similar itinerary, do check what inclusions are featured as some Intrepid packages include more bang for your buck than G Adventures.

Travel insurance is mandatory when traveling on an Intrepid tour, and your tour leader will need to see documentation before you set off. Although Intrepid doesn’t offer travel insurance, it recommends booking through World Nomads .

Intrepid recommends that your travel insurance covers you for:

  • Medical expenses and emergency repatriation
  • Personal liability
  • Cancellation
  • Curtailment
  • Loss of luggage and personal effects

Hot Tip:  Don’t get overwhelmed with the variety of travel insurance options available! We’ve created an ultimate guide to buying the best travel insurance to help simplify the process. You may also have travel coverages and benefits offered by your credit card .

While it’s unlikely that you’ll find Intrepid Travel promo codes on third party websites, Intrepid does frequently feature offers for specific destinations or tours that need a push. You’ll also find that booking well in advance can provide savings of 10% to 15% . No promo codes are required to obtain these deals; just visit the Travel Deals page on the Intrepid website.

The heart of Intrepid Travel is in its tour leaders — friendly locals, born and bred in the countries you’re discovering. Who better to show you around? Intrepid’s are some of the best in the industry and are consistently praised in customer reviews for the knowledge and personality they bring to the table.

If you’re thinking about your first tour, or have traveled with another tour operator before, don’t hesitate to give Intrepid a go. You’ll have the most extensive choice of tours and destinations of any operator and the comfort of knowing that you’re traveling with a company committed to having a positive impact on the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is intrepid travel a good company.

Intrepid Travel is well-reviewed across many of the major review sites. Most recently, many customers have taken to these sites to negatively review Intrepid’s cancellation and refund policy in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. But overall, the actual tours are highly reviewed.

Where is Intrepid Travel based?

Intrepid was founded in Australia and has offices in Melbourne, Toronto, London, and New York.

Which is better, Intrepid or G Adventures?

Intrepid Travel and G Adventures are very similar in their product offerings, both offering a wide range of destinations and tour types. Intrepid has over 1,000 tours to over 100 counties, so it does exceed G Adventures’ 700 tours, if range is a factor.

Price-wise, both operators are pretty much on par with each other, but if you are comparing a similar itinerary, do check what inclusions are featured as some Intrepid packages include more bang for your buck than G Adventures.

Are flights included in Intrepid Tours?

Flights are not included in the tour prices you see on the Intrepid website, however, you can book your flights through Intrepid. If you book your flights independently, you need to make sure you arrive in time for your welcome meeting on the first day of your tour.

What age group travels with Intrepid?

All age groups are catered for with Intrepid. 18-29s Tours and Family Tours are the only types that come with age restrictions; anyone else is free to join the other tours. Children over the age of 15 are permitted on most tours, provided they are accompanied by an adult over 18.

Was this page helpful?

About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE ™

Deluxe Travel Provided by UP Pulse

Get the latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply.

Related Posts

American Express Green Card — Full Review [2023]

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

Suggested companies

G adventures, exodus adventure travels.

intrepid travel vietnam review

Intrepid Travel   Reviews

In the Tour operator category

Visit this website

Company activity See all

Your profile picture

Write a review

Reviews 4.3.

1,894 total

Most relevant

South India revealed

South India revealed, from 02.02 - 17.02.24 We thought the South Indian trip from Trivandrum to Goa was really good! The tour guide Thilip was extremely personable and constantly looked after us, even when no activities were planned. Explained everything and gave valuable tips, took us to local restaurants to eat and described the food before ordering. The journey with different means of transport, bus, TUK TUK, train and sleeping car was also stress-free with Thilip. The accommodations were good and clean according to the price/performance ratio. Since we ate a lot in local restaurants and also used public transport, we had many nice encounters with Indians. The houseboat trip on the backwaters with homestay was one of the highlights. Sightseeing in Verkala, Kochi, Madurai, Mysore and Hampi were great and well organized. Of course, our small travel group of 10 people also contributed to the whole trip being good and harmonious. We can highly recommend this trip, but you should also be willing to adjust to the country and its people!! Heino and Hannelore Müller, Münster, Germany

Date of experience : 12 March 2024

Reply from Intrepid Travel

Hi Heino and Hannelore, thank you for your wonderful review! We're so delighted that you had such a wonderful time on your South India Revealed trip with Intrepid and experienced all the delights that India has to offer. Engaging with the local people is one of the joys of travel and we're so pleased that your trip afforded you plenty of opportunities to do so. Thank you also for your kind words about your tour leader Thilip. Our leaders are the hear of Intrepid and it's great to know that they were able to enhance your experience. We can't wait to welcome you on another Intrepid trip!

Premium price basic accommodation

I booked a premium trip to India because I wanted good accommodation and the itinerary looked amazing. The itinerary did not disappoint, unfortunately the guide and accommodation let the trip down massively. One of the rooms was filthy, another had a missing window pane, that the guide tried to pass off as a feature! Too many of the hotels had problems with the drains that made spending time in the room unpleasant. The guide was reactive when he needed to be but was mostly focusing on his phone and getting to the end of the walk/activities as soon as he could. I had a good time because the group and places we visited were great but I won't be rushing to do another trip with intrepid anytime soon.

Date of experience : 20 January 2024

Thank you for taking the time to post a review. We are disappointed to learn of your experience and that although you had a good time, you had a good group and the itinerary didn’t disappoint, you will not be rushing to book with Intrepid again. Your feedback is very important, and we would welcome the chance to discuss your comments around your leader and your accommodation in more detail. Please reach out to our Customer Care team with your booking reference and your departure code to customer [email protected]

Delhi to Goa

The whole trip just worked really well. I think this was also due to our fantastic guide, Gajraj Singh. He pitched the tour perfectly, was very knowledgeable about the places we visitedand occasionally slightly changed things to our benefit. The hotels and travel arrangements were as described and removed any stress.

Date of experience : 06 February 2024

Thank you for taking the time to post your review. It’s great to know the trip worked well and that your tour loader Gajrag Singh contributed to your enjoyment. I’m sure he will be delighted to receive this feedback. We hope you will find another of our itineraries to your linking and we can welcome you back on another of our adventures soon.

So glad we chose them for our first small group tour.

Had an amazing trip with Intrepid on the South Morocco Discovery Tour. We'd never been with Intrepid before so didn't really know what to expect. But it was fantastic from start to finish - quick replies to our queries before departure and then the trip itself. Great group of people, amazing Mo, our group leader and we were lucky enough to have 3 other Mo's. The itinerary was pretty full on, with lots of time in the bus but scenery, the stops and the banter on the bus made it part of the experience. We saw so much, from rainy Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert, ancient walled cities to seaside fishing town, and of course Marakkech. Loved every minute - the people, the places and being with Intrepid meant we didn't have to worry about anything. Will definitely use Intrepid for our next trip - so glad we chose them for our first small group tour.

Date of experience : 08 February 2024

Thank you for taking the time to post your review. We are pleased to learn that having been your first Intrepid trip, it was everything you wanted and more. That you loved every minute and that being with Intrepid meant you didn’t have to worry about anything, you could just enjoy the country, the people, and the views. We hope you have some special memories of this special part of the world, and we can welcome you on another of our adventures soon.

I’ll choose Intrepid Everytime

I’ve done about 6 tours with intrepid. My favorite are the Camping African tours. Very efficient way to see off the beaten path in different counties. Very well organized although I think some of the accommodations needs review. Team leaders, chefs and drivers have all been 10/10. Their customer service is very responsive when answering my queries about visas,food,airport connections ect. I travel at ease knowing I chose intrepid.

Date of experience : 28 November 2023

Hey Jeeleigh! Wow, 6 tours, that's amazing! Thanks for travelling with us. So happy you've had such great experiences. Thank you for your note about the accommodation - if you'd like to send us an email about your concerns regarding the accommodations, we can for sure pass them on to the right department for you! We can't wait to welcome you on your next trip :)

I chose Intrepid due to their small…

I chose Intrepid due to their small group. Their choice in hotels are "0". Here we are in Jakarta to Ubud trip, safety deposit box are encouraged. But i was placed in 3 Rms where they would not work or required someone to come in my room after the fact that I'm already checked in. The toilet also stopped flushing, I honestly had a meltdown! The last thing i need is someone working in the room after a long journey on a minubus or train. The guide was very thoughtful and helpful, a"5". Some of the local itinerary (local factories tour) was subpar or we didn't get a chance to see because they were off or it was the weekend or something else... My biggest disappointment was really choice in hotels. Oh and someone was sick in the group who was a talker and just kept coughing in everyone's face. We are stuffed in a minivan for long rides from city to city sometimes and he would talk non stop and didn't bother covering his mouth when coughing. Intrepid should encourage masking for people who have symptoms such as coughing. He got this other lady sick and I ended up getting sick after a week after.

Thank you for taking the time to post your review. Your feedback is important to us, and we are always looking at ways to improve our trips and our customer’s experience. We would welcome the change to discuss your feedback in more detail. Please reach out to our Customer Care team with your booking reference and departure code to [email protected]

Explore Vietnam

This trip is challenging and sometimes tiring but so rewarding. You see parts of the real Vietnam off the tourist trail, meet real people and hear their stories. Amazing value for money with good, clean accommodation. Travelling through the country on the overnight train with the locals was a fantastic experience. Great variety of cities visited and all the organisation went very smoothly. Lots of additional excursions are offered which are all worth doing - they added to the trip immensely. This was our first Intrepid trip and I’m sure it won’t be our last.

Date of experience : 07 February 2024

Thank you for taking the time to post your review and for sharing your experience with others. It's good to know that although you found the trip challenging and tiring a times, it was also so rewarding. We do hope you will find another itinerary to your liking and we can welcome you on another of our adventures soon.

Gorillas and Game Parks

Gorillas and Game Parks was an awesome experience and trip. The Intrepid crew was great and very professional. The driving times were quite long, longer than listed, but we stopped every few hours for a break. The tents were in great shape and comfortable.

Hi Michael, thank you for your review. We are pleased to know that you had a fantastic overall experience with us, and your feedback of your tent in particular is great to hear. We do our best to have accurate travel times on our trip notes, thank you for highlighting that for our team to check on. We hope the time with the gorillas was just as magical as you had imagined! With best wishes for your next adventure.

Wonderful trip to Costa Rica

We chose Intrepid for our Costa Rica trip February 2024 after a great trip to Namibia with Intrepid in May 2023. Definitely an intrepid trip! As well as seeing a good bit of Costa Rica--Caribbean, rain forest, cloud forest, Pacific beach--we went tubing, rafting, snorkeling, kayaking through a mangrove swamp and zip lining over the cloud forest. (All very professionally run.) We particularly liked Intrepid's use of family-run businesses. The guide was super organized and very knowledgeable about the areas visited and the plants and wildlife we were seeing.

Date of experience : 28 January 2024

Hello Inge, thank you for such an excellent overview of your tour to Costa Rica! We appreciate your recognition of our local business partners, and we always hope to contribute to local economies that will have a larger impact on the communities we visit. Costa Rica is indeed, a nature lovers dream and we look forward to having you along with us again in future. Stay well.

Experience locals on an Intrepid tour

We have just come back from Morocco, completing our 9th Intrepid tour. We love the way Intrepid find interesting ways to link us with locals. In the Morocco Uncovered tour, for example, we visited a Berber tent on a cold rainy day. The home was toasty warm, the Berber shared his life (so different to ours in suburban Australia), music and love of the land. It was an experience I will never forget. On the same tour, my partners birthday was celebrated in a local house where the family had made all the ingredients for the meal! In the past we have happened (ie not part of the tour) on a circumcision party (Turkey), weddings (Sri Lanka, Turkey, Myanmar), developed an understanding of Jordan as the crossroad of culture, and sharing deep fried locusts (Cambodia). If you want to get to know what it's like to live in a country, meet some locals and have a great time, go Intrepid. Their organisation, logistics and guide are top class.

Date of experience : 05 February 2024

Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. It's great to know that being a first time Intrepid traveller, you had an amazing trip and will be booking with Intrepid again. We hope you will find another itinerary to your liking and we can welcome you on another of our adventures soon.

Exhausting and Exhilarating

We have travelled with Intrepid in Japan, Eastern Europe and now India. On each occasion the tours were well organised, and the guides professional, friendly and great communicators. Our recent Premium trip to India involved early starts and long days but those factors allowed us to see much more than we would have if we had travelled solo. We were introduced to many cultural experiences which added to the overall itinerary. Our guide orchestrated many seamless vehicular changes from bus to car to tuk tuk which allowed us to travel to and from temples, forts, palaces, etc, as efficiently as possible.

Date of experience : 08 March 2024

Thank you for sharing your experience with us, Alan, on what sounds like an incredible Indian adventure. We are so pleased that you felt you got most out of such an exhilarating country by being introduced to many cultural experiences and covering a vast distance. Where will your next adventure be? We look forward to welcoming you on another trip soon.

Premium Intrepid India experience.a few words our India experience…

In a few words our India experience with Intrepid Travel was superb! Our guide was an exceptional human being with a wealth of knowledge which made the trip so much easier and exciting for the travellers! We visited the most amazing and interesting places, many I had never heard of but by the time I left I knew so much more about them. Our accommodation, food and travel were great and thanks to Intrepid our whole trip was fabulous. Certainly recommended!!

Date of experience : 09 February 2024

Hi Richard, thank you for your lovely review! We are thrilled to know that you enjoyed your time with us and that your guide created a memorable experience for you and your group. Thank you for coming along with us to explore such a wonderful destination, and we do hope to see you again when the time comes. Stay well.

Fabulous organised trip to Sri Lanka

Fabulous organised trip to Sri Lanka. Would definitely book through them again. The tour guide was so knowledgeable and took us to places that we would never have seen on our own. Some of the hotels were a little basic but perfectly fine. Definitely a 5* experience.

Date of experience : 02 February 2024

Thank you for your lovely review, Denise. We are delighted to hear that you had such an enjoyable time exploring Sri Lanka and that your tour leader took your group to interesting places, off the beaten track. We are always so pleased to hear when customers would love to travel with us again, we look forward to hopefully seeing you on another one of our adventures soon. All the best, Intrepid Travel

Intrepid what can I say Excellent Tour

Intrepid what can I say I will say it’s the best organised trip I have ever been on I was reluctant to go on an organised tour reason being I like to do my own thing This gave everything I wanted to down time by ones self ,but most of all the companionship with others on the tour friendships we now have made but most of all the tour guide who went out of her way to make sure things were done to absolute perfection I would recommend this tour and guide and one could only hope I come across her once again for a tour leader “ Too travel is to Live “

Date of experience : 15 February 2024

Hey Jenice!! Wow we're so happy to hear you had such a great experience on your recent trip with us! So happy you made some life long friends and some wonderful memories. We can't wait to welcome you on another trip :)

Love Intrepid

Been on a few intrepid trips now (last one was Egypt tour in early Feb 2024) and can’t fault them. The guides and travel experiences have all been wonderful. I love that they give back to local communities and try and be as sustainable as possible.

Date of experience : 03 February 2024

Thank you for taking the time to write about your experiences with Intrepid, A- it is much appreciated! We are happy to hear that our focuses with local communities and sustainable practices are being recognized by our travellers. And we are delighted to know that you found value in the time you had with our guide(s). With kind regards and many thanks.

Intrepid Travel offers Terrible Unprofessional service Not sure why the reviews are so good.

Not sure why the reviews are so good. INTREPID maybe a Canadian company, but they are unresponsive and unprofessional to the point of exasperation. I had to insult them several times on the phone for their unprofessionalism and unresponsiveness. My air fares went up by 30% while waiting for their negative answers and I had to pry the answers with pliers over a 20 day period. Stay away. If sailing, try Intersail Group

Date of experience : 27 February 2024

Hi Carlos, thank you for your review. We are sorry you had to wait for answers regarding your specific requests- our team wanted to make sure that we could provide the extra services you were after rather than booking you on a tour that would not have been what you had hoped for. Just to offer some clarity around our company, we are an Australian owned, Bcorps certified business and we do have global offices. We wish you well with Intersail.

I absolutely loved this trip to Antarctica

I absolutely loved this trip. It was very expensive but once we were on the expedition ship you could see why. Everything was just brilliantly organised; the food was excellent, the drinks were a fair price, the whole crew were exceptional, friendly and always there with a smile and happy to chat. The twice-daily excursions were always very well organised, and the crew who took us on them were knowledgeable, friendly and professional. Our beds were turned down every night, it was all just so comfortable. I met so many lovely people and there were a lot of us solo travellers. On a slightly negative side, the Ocean Endeavour's decor is still in the 80s and very much needs updating. The evening entertainment wasn't great on some nights, a couple of evenings there was absolutely nothing to do and I had to ask for music one evening just to try and liven the lounge room up. Other evenings - especially the indoor live music and outside barbecue with DJ - were fantastic. In my 'port hole' cabin the port hole (window) was sealed shut with a metal cover during the two trips along the Drake Passage meaning we had no natural light and had no outside view for four of the eight days at sea. I would've appreciated being advised of this beforehand in order to have a choice of another cabin where there was a window to see the wonderful views during the entire journey. The onboard wi-fi (in this day and age) was charged at an unnecessary extortionate price, and I know it's free on other Antarctica ships. But all-in-all I can't believe I finally made it to Antarctica. It was as wonderful as I imagined it would be, and quite a few of us wished we could've stayed there longer.

Date of experience : 27 January 2024

Hi Sarah, thank you for such a wonderful review! It is amazing to hear of your experience and that you met some new friends while exploring incredible Antarctica with us. We would appreciate the opportunity to speak to you about your cabin, if you would kindly email our team at [email protected] with your booking ID (please send it privately). We hope to hear from you, and stay well.

An unforgettable trip for all the right…

An unforgettable trip for all the right reasons! An expedition to Antarctica on a small cruise ship (Ocean Endeavour) that offered us a comfortable room, good meals and a very professional, polite and friendly crew. The Intrepid Expedition Team gave us informative lectures on the environment, flora and fauna, as well geopolitical history of Antarctica. We had several Zodiac excursions, and guided landings all done safely and in an environmentally-responsible way. And great photo ops of Penguins (3 types), seals, whales and sea-birds aplenty, icebergs, mountains and glaciers.

Hey Diane! Thank you so much for your review. Wow, what an unforgettable trip! We're so happy you enjoyed your voyage to Antarctica with us! Truly a once in a lifetime experience and I'm so happy you got to see so many animals! We can't wait to welcome you on another Intrepid trip in the future :)

Abandoned in South America when things went wrong

My husband booked a holiday for us with Intrepid, to include Buenos Aires, Iguacu and finishing in Rio de Janeiro. Due to industrial strike action in Argentina, we weren’t able to get there (the whole country shut down the day we were meant to arrive with no flights) and because we’d flown via Rio, we were stranded in Brazil. We looked to intrepid to help transfer our accommodation and help us but they didn’t. We had to book our own. My husband called and called and chased them to see what bookings from our original trip could be transferred because we explained we’d booked to get to Buenos Aires two days later, but they wouldn’t help. We secured a new booking at the original hotel and it took them 3 more days to finally agree speak to the hotel in Buenos Aires to transfer our booking. They managed to screw that up too as they booked two single beds when our own booking had confirmed a king bed. It was so disappointing. Upon our return to Rio (tonight) they’d assured us we had a booking at a hotel which not only turned out to be untrue (and we’ve had to pay ourselves again) but the hotel is a dump. We were literally left with no choice to take a room here at 2am otherwise we’d be waking the streets of Rio with our suitcases. Intrepid have been such a let down and the major cause is stress on this holiday. Their idea of a ‘luxury’ hotel is also way off what ours is. The hotels which we did manage to stay at through them (or were meant to be through them!) were average at best. I would not recommend arranging anything through them as they abandon you when things go wrong.

Date of experience : 05 March 2024

Thank you for taking the time to post your review. We are sorry to learn that your trip was affected by the Industrial Strike Action in Argentina. These events were beyond our direct control and records do indicate that we did all we could to assist you during this time. We are sorry to learn that you feel you could have been better supported and that you had issues with your accommodation. We would welcome the chance to discuss this further, as there are some matters that we would like to address. Please reach our to [email protected]

Outstanding & Meaningful Travel Experiences

Intrepid offers a consistently outstanding travel experience, often taking you off the beaten path and exposing you to the real life history and culture of the place you are visiting. Tour leaders are passionate about their country and anxious to communicate, share and impart that enthusiasm. I've taken five trips with Intrepid to varying parts of the world and have always returned home a happier and better person.

Date of experience : 14 February 2024

Hi Alan! Thank you for allowing us to host you on your adventures. We are truly appreciative of your comments- authentic experiences are what we always hope to create for our travellers, and we are honoured to be part of your journey! Stay well and see you soon!

Premium Vietnam

intrepid travel vietnam review

intrepid travel vietnam review

Health Safety +

  • Explore the cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City with your local leader who will help to uncover the vibrant mix of influences, from the French to Asian traders, settlers and indigenous peoples.
  • Feast on an included lunch at KOTO café in Hanoi – a social enterprise organisation aimed at providing vocational and hospitality skills to young workers.
  • Enjoy your Premium Feature Stay – an overnight cruise in Halong Bay on a boat as beautiful as its surroundings. Take in spectacular views while enjoying a candle-lit dinner on deck.
  • Explore the charming old town of Hoi An with your guide, known for its quaint canals and historic architecture. Sit down to enjoy a famed egg coffee at a local cafe and relax from the hustle and buslte.
  • This Exclusive Experience is sure to be one to remember – sit down to a soul-stirring Hat Xam performance, an art form that dates back over 700 years to the Tran Dynasty.
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, WildAct. Donations help them run educational programs that aim to stop the illegal hunting of threatened migratory birds in Vietnam.

What's this trip about?

Travel themes.

  • High Adventure

Destinations

Attractions.

  • Ho Chi Minh

Trip includes

  • Complimentary Arrival Transfer
  • Hanoi - Welcome Dinner
  • Halong Bay - Overnight Boat Cruise
  • Hanoi - Hat Xam performance
  • Halong Bay - Tai Chi
  • Hanoi - Temple of Literature
  • Hanoi - Lunch at KOTO
  • Hanoi - Hoa Lo Prison
  • Hoi An - Old Town walking tour
  • Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels
  • Ho Chi Minh City - Reunification Palace
  • Ho Chi Minh City - War Remnants Museum
  • Ho Chi Minh City - Notre Dame Cathedral

Popular Trips

Vietnam Discovery

Vietnam Discovery

Premium Vietnam in Depth

Premium Vietnam in Depth

Vietnam Express Northbound

Vietnam Express Northbound

Scenic Vietnam

Scenic Vietnam

Best of Vietnam

Best of Vietnam

Travel Map

Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you wish to spend some more time in Ho Chi Minh city, we would be happy to organise additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

  • You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
  • Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Dates & Availability

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Intrepid Travel .

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Gifts Card

Intrepid Travel Reviews & Ratings

Other intrepid travel reviews, we joined the intrepid “real italy food….

We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information....

Audrey Tavares

Central Asia Explorer

This was my third trip with Intrepid, and I'll continue to plan future trips with them. I choose Intrepid to travel to parts of the world where I don't feel comforta...

Do not book a tour with Intrepid

Do not book a tour with Intrepid. Their “policy” on deposits is unreasonable, inflexible and downright thieving. I booked a tour in India with them over seven month...

See all Other Intrepid Travel reviews

Travelers also viewed

Vietnam Family Holiday with Teenagers

Vietnam Family Holiday with Teenagers

Essential Vietnam

Essential Vietnam

Vietnam Family Holiday

Vietnam Family Holiday

Vietnam Express Southbound

Vietnam Express Southbound

Real Vietnam

Real Vietnam

Tour operator, intrepid travel, the intrepid travel experience.

If you’re looking for adventure, you’ve come to the right place. For the past 25 years, we’ve been taking small groups of travelers on unforgettable trips around the world. What makes them unforgettable? Take a look for yourself and discover the Intrepid experience.

Our travelers have three styles of tour to choose from: Basix, Original and Comfort. Each has a different level of inclusions and accommodation, but all have unforgettable real life experiences as part of the package. Travellers can also choose themed trips, such as Family, Sailing or Food, to suit their interests.

Our group size has an average of just ten travellers, which allows us to get off the beaten track, use local accommodation and transport, and really get to know the culture. It also ensures we are contributing to the local economy; by choosing local suppliers we were able to keep AUD 60 million in local economies in 2012. We’re also working hard to reduce our carbon footprint and were the first in our sector to introduce carbon offset trips. This, along with our many corporate sustainability activities, has meant we’re one of the travel industry’s leaders in responsible travel.

Why Intrepid?

  •   Small groups - average of 10 people per trip
  •   Sustainability - pioneers for the industry
  •   Local leaders - authentic perspectives
  •   Local transport - get close and personal
  •   Local accommodation - experience real living
  •   Intrepid travelers - like-minded companions 

Intrepid Travel has come a long way since its beginnings in 1989. From two university friends, a typewriter and a kitchen desk, it is now a proud member of The Intrepid Group, taking over 100,000 travelers every year.

Intrepid Travel is part of The Intrepid Group of companies, alongside leading small group adventure companies Peregrine, Urban Adventures and PEAK DMC.

Despite growing into a global business with over 1,000 staff based all over the world and over 800 different trips across every continent, we’ve remained devoted to the same grassroots values and responsible travel philosophies that we had at the very beginning.

On every trip we operate and in every interaction we have with a client, supplier or local, we live our core values everyday:

  • Integrity – Doing the right thing
  • Responsible – Think global, act local
  • Growth – Stakeholders in our own success
  • Innovation – Thriving on new ideas and embracing change
  • Fun – It’s engrained into who we are and what we do
  • Passion – We are inspired by the work we do and the trips we offer

Tweets by Intrepid_Travel

Associations

Why Travelstride

Find your perfect trip, travel confidently, accommodation, transportation & flights, transportation & flights, become a member.

  • Save up to $700 per person
  • Access members-only specials
  • Personalize trip recommendations

Classic Vietnam

Classic Vietnam

Tour companies, things to do, itineraries.

intrepid travel vietnam review

Intrepid Travel   Reviews

In the Tour Operator category

Visit this website

Company activity See all

Your profile picture

Write a review

Reviews 4.3.

1,894 total

Most relevant

Intrepid tour of Egypt…

Our Egyptian guide Ahmed Fawzy brought a wonderful trip to a new level. His knowledge and understanding of Egyptian history and culture was outstanding but the care and thoughtfulness he gave to all of us was the icing on the cake. We felt we were in such capable hands and our safety and comfort was always a high priority. Can’t thank Ahmed enough for making it the best trip we have ever been on.

Date of experience : October 30, 2023

Reply from Intrepid Travel

Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us, Eleanor. We are delighted to hear how your tour leader, Ahmed brought your wonderful trip to a new level. Our incredible local leaders are an asset to our company and we are so pleased that Ahmed's knowledge and thoughtfulness made this the best trip you have ever been on. We look forward to welcoming you on another adventure in the not-so-distant future. All the best, Intrepid Travel

What a wonderful introduction to Cuba

What a wonderful introduction to Cuba! The guides (Will and Claudia, with George safely guiding our bus from place to place) were fantastic and we met dozens of Cubans from all walks of life. It was a perfect mix of culture, food, politics, and history. (For details, you can see my blog posts about Cuba, including what to expect and more about Intrepid) at PuffinlessTravel.com.)

Date of experience : November 05, 2023

Thanks for your fabulous review! We're delighted to read that you had a wonderful time in Cuba and that your guides Will and Claudia were able to enhance your experience, along with the driver George. Cuba is such a unique place to visit and we're thrilled that Intrepid got to be part of your experience. We hope to welcome you back on another trip with us soon!

We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food…

We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment.

Date of experience : October 20, 2023

Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us. Mike. We are delighted to hear that your tour leader positively impacted your time in Italy and that you all enjoyed the experience as a group. We look forward to welcoming you on another Intrepid trip in the near future. All the best.

Oman Discivery

Travelling to Oman in 2023 was my first experience with Intrepid From the initial phone call where team Members were knowledgeable courteous and easy to talk to through to the tour itself there were no problems or hassles. The Omani tour leader Said was exceptional approachable personable he is a true leader ably supported by Yousef and Amin. This team showed compassion and respect in an unobtrusive manner. Their constant good humour and their willingness to assist in the learning of Arabic was much appreciated. The interaction with Omanis during our travels was an inspiration and a joy Accommodation could not be faulted The whole tour of Oman was a gem which will remain in my memory My tour was in November an ideal time of year to travel

Date of experience : November 01, 2023

Hi Stephanie, thank you for sharing your experience with us! We are thrilled to know that you had a great time, and that Said and the team were so well liked. We also appreciate your mention of the time of year to travel and the insight you have provided around that. We hope to see you again when the time comes and we wish you all the best for 2024!

Have not even started and not impressed

Booked a premium tour to Israel and paid in full. Once I paid Intrepid changed the tour, not because of operational or safety reasons but on the basis of previous customers feedback. We asked them to keep the tour as it was advertised originally and they suggested we ask our group to see if we can persuade them to go to the original destination once we had arrived in Israel which is simply ridiculous and then I complained so they offered my money back. Not exactly the best resolution now that I already paid for my flights and booked time off separately. Hopefully the tour will be better than my experience so far.

Date of experience : August 31, 2023

Hi, thank you for your review. We are sorry to learn of your disappointment with the itinerary changes. Per our booking conditions, customers have the option to cancel for any major itinerary changes, I apologise that your experience has been negative. If you want to discuss this further, please contact the sales team at [email protected]

Intrepid were great

Intrepid were great. Our guide was knowledgeable, kind, and really supportive and helpful. Cuba presented challenges re food and internet access, but what a fabulous place; the artistry of the people, the fun, and the story of their challenges as a people.

Date of experience : August 05, 2023

Hi Valerie, thank you so much for your great review. We are so pleased to hear you had a wonderful time in Cuba with your local leader, indeed, Cuba really is a must-visit destination!

Disappointing and stressful

My 6 day Italian sailing holiday was not what they promised. In the fine print they write that the minimum age is 15 years old and I also checked this via a customer rep before hand. But on my trip we had a child younger than that. This totally changed the vibe of the trip, especially as there is only 8 people on board. They also took down my review on their website, which was fair and stated the positive aspects as well as my issue with being on a trip with young teenagers. Update: I gave all my concerns in writing to Intrepid via their own feedback form sent to me after my trip, which no one from their company responded to. Only now after writing on trustpilot do they want more details. Intrepid why are you asking for me to contact you at customer care with my details when you already have all my details and feedback from the trip?

Date of experience : August 07, 2023

Update: Hi Lee, we are sorry to hear about this. We operate over 1000 trips in 7 continents, so as you can imagine we receive thousands of feedback submissions. It isn't possible for us to get back to every customer who leaves feedback so we do advise on the form that you contact us directly if you wish to discuss anything. The Customer Care team will be in touch with you now that we have identified your booking. Hi Lee, we are concerned to hear about this but have been unable to locate your booking. Please get in touch so that we can investigate this for you at [email protected]

Drama free visit

The scenery and food were fantastic. Monica was fabulous and had a warm personality. She spent quite a bit of time to make our trip great despite a few weather related and end of season snags that we encountered. I appreciated the fact that we used a research company for our whale watching. I think taking this trip could be a bit complicated to plan because of all the different transportation methods. Intrepid makes this trip a breeze.

Date of experience : October 07, 2023

Hi Lisa, thanks for sharing your experience and posting this positive review. We're thrilled that your had a wonderful time on your Intrepid trip and that Monica was able to enhance your experience. Our leaders truly are the heart of Intrepid. It's great to learn that we were able to take the hassle out of planning a trip for you. We hope to host you again on another trip with us in the future.

I love Intrepid Real Food adventures…

I love Intrepid Real Food adventures and have now been on a few. India, Sri Lanka, Turkey, Mexico. Morocco Vietnam, as well as Jamaica. It can be very get in amongst it, and they include public transport which can be tough, as well as glorious luxury. The food is always delicious. They are always interesting and full of learning and fun and adventure. Also sometimes it’s uncomfortable or crowded. You come home with memories and stories and new friends I am hooked and already planning the next. Note Intrepid support local business and make sure the local economy get the $. This matters

Date of experience : September 14, 2023

Hi Lesley, thank you so much for taking the time to leave this wonderful review. Wow 7 Intrepid food tours!! We really appreciate your loyalty and are thrilled to read that you always have such a great time, enjoying the sights and sounds of a new place. Thank you also for helping us to further our mission of being a responsible travel company. We're looking forward to welcome you back on another trip soon!

Easy way to travel but many hidden costs

Really easy way to travel with someone else sorting out all your tickets, safety etc. Experience so dependant on group leaders personality, mine was nice but very demanding and controlling of our 'free' time, but maybe others are more easy going. Biggest issue was compulsory tipping. You will be made to tip everyone you come into contact with, often tipping before hand from a kitty so the money is gone before you know if they even did a good job. This is apparently optional but in reality compulsory. Lots of other additional costs like stopping at expensive restaurants where there is a link wih the owner and no option for cheaper food, lots of activities not included but with no alternative for free time. As long as you add 20% extra to the cost of your trip to take as tips/unavoidable and are prepared for these extra costs you'll hopefully love it!

Date of experience : July 02, 2023

Hi Amy, thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We value all feedback and really appreciate your constructive comments regarding your leader and the tour cost. We typically expect our leaders to share their knowledge of local restaurants and activities to ensure our customers have an authentic experience, we do apologize if this was not the case for you. Similarly, tipping kitties are usually established as a group decision, we're sorry to hear that this felt pushed. Again, we appreciate your feedback and will share this with the relevant teams. We hope that despite this, you still enjoyed your adventure. If you would like our team to investigate any concerns further, please contact [email protected]. Take care.

PREMIUM LEVEL check Accomodation reviews.We have just done 3 Intrepid tours.

We have just done 3 Intrepid tours. My review here relates to the Premiun Turkey in depth tour. Excellent Guide Seda, Excellent driver Mesut and Excellent Itinerary. Where this trip disappointed us was some of the accommodation was not Premium Infact one would not even meet the Original Tours standard. We paid considerably more to travel at this level and like others in the group were disappointed all accommodation was not at Premium standard which is what we paid for. Some others were hoping to book Intrepid Premium again but said they would look at other options. It doesn't come near the Peregerine level which we understand Intrepid have purchased and call it Premium.

Date of experience : October 01, 2023

Hi Priscilla, Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts with us. We do thank you for your continuous loyalty - 3 Intrepid tours?! Wow! We are delighted to hear you had an excellent time on the trip. However, in response to your concerns, we would be more than happy to investigate further. If you have any pictures of the conditions of the accommodation, can you please email them over to [email protected]? If not, we would still love to hear your input. Thank you once again :)

Fabulous Sri Lanka

Travelled with Intrepid on their Best Of Sri Lanka trip - just wonderful. Leader Asanga is a marvel knowledgeable and funny but no nonsense. 10/10 bloke. Itinerary was excellent busy days but manageable. Loved the cycling and trekking - achievable for most people. Accommodation was of good standard bar one hotel. Jungle camp was fantastic. All in all a very memorable trip

Date of experience : September 10, 2023

Hi Debbie! Thank you so much for taking the time to share your comments with us. It is fantastic to learn that you had a wonderful experience, and that our tour offered you the most knowledgeable and fun tour leader. We can't wait to welcome you back on your next adventure!

Intrepid really knows Morocco

We looked for an itinerary that included the cities and experiences we wanted, and chose our first-time trip with Intrepid. A great choice... Intrepid really knows Morocco. The itinerary was great, filled with experiences like a visit with a nomad in her tent, and camel rides to a from a night in tents in the desert. Our leader was outstanding and most of the local guides were great -- which made this a special trip.

Date of experience : October 03, 2023

Hi there, thank you for sharing your experience and posting this wonderful review. It’s great to know how much you enjoyed your tour and that your leader did such a great job. Also, that you were able to experience the amazing history and culture that Morocco has to offer. We look forward to welcoming you on another of our adventures soon!

Just finished my third trip with Intrepid (US Western National Parks; India and Japan) and immediately booked for next trip to Asia in 2024. Most of the group on my last trip were repeat customers and would use again which tells what you need to know. I found it a great option as a solo traveller and thought the optional solo supplement was reasonable.

Date of experience : November 23, 2023

Hi Caroline! Thank you for your review. We are thrilled to know you are already signed up for a new tour following your most recent experience. Thank you for highlighting your thoughts around travelling as a solo adventurer- we appreciate your feedback, and cannot wait to see you again! Stay well.

Did a Premium Sicily tour

Did a Premium Sicily tour. The guide was great but I think there was too much packed in and little free time. I would have rather had a choice about which guided tours we went on and not pay for these but have them as optional extras. Bus was a little uncomfortable and squishy in terms of the seats. Most accomodation was very good. For the price I wouldn’t recommend this to others.

Thank you for taking the time post your reviewed It is very disappointing to learn that having rated your trip with 4* the trip was not felt to offer value for money. You mention you would have preferred more optional activities. The idea of our Premium trip style is to have more included activities, so perhaps our Original or Comfort style of trip may have been better suited to your needs. We would welcome the chance to discuss your experience in more detail, as we are always looking at ways to improve our customer’s experience. Please reach out to our customer care team at [email protected]

Premium Morocco in Depth

Such a wonderful experience shared with a great group 11 Aussie's in total. We had Mikki as our guide and he went above and beyond to make everyone happy and contented. We were there during the earthquake but Mikki was exceptional during that time and making sure everything was safe for us. I will certainly look at taking another Intrepid trip in the near future.

Date of experience : September 02, 2023

Thank you for taking the time to share your experience, Linda. We are delighted to hear that you had such an enjoyable time in Morocco and that your tour leader, Mikki went above and beyond to ensure the groups safety. We look forward to welcoming you on another Intrepid Adventure soon.

Premium Nepal

This was my third trip with Intrepid and we could not have been happier with our experience! Our guide Subash was amazing, so patient and knowledgeable and he ensured we got the most out of the experience. Some of the most incredible things we experienced on the trip were cooking classes with a women's empowerment project and with a Tibetan refugee, seeing Everest from the air and seeing a rhino eating water lilies. There is a lot of travel and packing and unpacking but you will see a lot of an amazing country in a shorter time. We look forward to booking more Intrepid trips in the future!

Date of experience : November 08, 2023

Hi Katherine, thank you for sharing your experience and posting this wonderful review! It’s great to know how much you enjoyed your tour and that your leader did such a great job. Also, that you were able to experience the amazing history and culture that Nepal has to offer. We look forward to welcoming you on another of our adventures soon.

Cambodia premium

Cambodia is a magical country, the people, the history, the countryside. The accommodation, trip itinerary and food were all fantastic. Everything was well organised. However without Mony, our guide, we would not have learnt so much. Always helpful and obliging. Mony definitely deserves recognition as one of the best tour group leaders. Loved this experience so much that I have booked another trip with Intrepid!

Date of experience : October 28, 2023

Rebecca, we're so thrilled that you had a wonderful time in Cambodia with Intrepid. Thank you so much for your kind words about your leader, Mony! Our leaders truly are the heart of Intrepid and it sounds like Mony made your trip quite a memorable one. We're also so delighted that you loved your trip so much that you have booked another one and we can't wait to welcome you back!

Great itinerary for Premium Namibia…

Great itinerary for Premium Namibia trip in July 2023. Loved the giant sand dunes of the Deadvlei, adored the pink flamingoes at Walvis Bay, and enjoyed the animals - especially zebra dazzles and giraffes in Etosha Park. Stayed in some fabulous Desert Lodges. Super guide (Johannes) and great driver (Gerson).

Date of experience : July 01, 2023

Hello Jill. Thank you very much for taking the time and leaving us such a wonderful review! We are thrilled to hear that you loved the itinerary and that Johannes was a Super guide! We hope to welcome you on another Intrepid Tour in the near future! Thanks again

Cape Town to Victoria Falls

My partner and I had already attempted to plan this route as independent travellers, but when we went into Trailfinders and found out that Intrepid already did it, for a similar price to what we'd budgeted, we booked it. It was an experience and an adventure as much as a holiday: 3000 miles in a truck, 17 nights camping, extraordinary landscape, all the African iconic mega-fauna, 40 degree days, dawns, sunsets and starry nights. Our guide, cook and driver were all charming. Our fellow travellers turned into family during the journey. There are negatives: as travellers from the northern hemisphere we found it impossible to ignore the appalling inequalities still arising from colonialism. But we Europeans need to see this and accept responsibility for what our countries and corporations have done to the African nations and people. There might be easier and more convenient ways to see this part of the world, but I suspect we would have missed out on some very important life lessons (and spent a lot more!). Thoroughly recommended.

Date of experience : October 14, 2023

Hi Harry, thank you for your insightful review following your time in beautiful Africa! We know how special this route is and happy you found us to host you and your partner. While we understand group dynamics can be varied, and we are happy to know that you ended up with that 'family feeling' - we always hope for this as an outcome for our travellers. Have an excellent rest of 2023 and we hope to have you along with us again sometime. Stay well.

Deals of the Week   St. Patrick's Day   Up to 50% OFF

Cycle Vietnam

  • Fully Guided
  • Christmas & New Year

Places You’ll See

Hanoi

  • Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
  • Admire the lush panorama of the Mai Chau valley
  • Take a stroll through fields of rice
  • Discover the wacky architecture of Hang Nga Crazy House
  • Introduction
  • Day 1 Hanoi
  • Day 2 Hanoi
  • Day 3 Mai Chau
  • Day 4 Ninh Binh
  • Day 5 Ninh Binh - Overnight train
  • Day 7 Hoi An
  • Day 8 Hoi An
  • Day 9 Quy Nhon
  • Day 10 Nha Trang
  • Day 11 Nha Trang
  • Day 12 Dalat
  • Day 13 Phan Thiet
  • Day 14 Ho Chi Minh City
  • Day 15 Ho Chi Minh City

Want to read it later?

Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline

What's Included

  • Accommodation
  • Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Customer photos.

intrepid travel vietnam review

Operated by Intrepid Travel

Back in 1989, two guys from Melbourne, Australia by the names of Darrell and Manch set off on an adventure to the other side of the world. They travelled to Africa and without air conditioning on their modified truck, they filled it with supplies, some beer, a bunch of aviator sunglasses, and some friends. On that trip, they came up with the idea that perhaps others may be interested in this style of travel too. Just like that, Intrepid was born. Intrepid has come a long way since then, now giving over 100,000 travelers a year the opportunity to experience small group travel across all 7 continents. They use local transport, sleep in local accommodation from Cambodian stilt houses to Moroccan riads, and employ 100% local leaders. With three different travel styles including basix, original and comfort, themes ranging from cycling trips to family holidays, and itineraries crafted with the perfect balance of must-see sights and free time, Intrepid caters to every type of traveller no matter their age, budget or travel style. The company has grown but their mission remains the same: to change the way people see the world through sustainable, experience-rich travel

Sustainability Initiatives

Reduce Carbon Emissions

Animal Welfare

Supporting Destinations

Sustainability Programs

Customer Reviews

  • Overall Rating Excellent 4.6
  • Itinerary Excellent 4.6
  • Guide Excellent 4.7
  • Transport Excellent 4.6
  • Accommodation Good 3.8
  • Food Excellent 4.3
  • Tour Operator Intrepid Travel 4.6
  • Most Recent
  • Most Popular
  • Highest First
  • Lowest First

Intrepid Travel

  • KS Konstantin · 7th April 2023 This a perfect tour if you set your expectations right. The support crew is amazing, attentive to every detail and is really putting their whole heart into their work. The food, the 3-4 star hotels, the bikes were all good. However, the tour is really... Show more Trip date: March 2023

Cycle Vietnam reviewer 5

Dates & Availability

PayPal

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

  • Upcoming departures
  • August 2024
  • September 2024
  • October 2024
  • November 2024
  • December 2024
  • January 2025
  • February 2025
  • August 2025
  • September 2025
  • October 2025
  • November 2025
  • December 2025

Space on this tour is not guaranteed. Book this tour to request your place and the operator will confirm availability.

  • Get Instant Confirmation Wednesday 10 Apr, 2024 Wednesday 24 Apr, 2024 English Almost Sold Out €2,350 Confirm Dates
  • Saturday 13 Apr, 2024 Saturday 27 Apr, 2024 English Sold Out €2,260 See Similar Tours For These Dates
  • -5% Get Instant Confirmation Saturday 20 Apr, 2024 Saturday 4 May, 2024 English Almost Sold Out €2,260 €2,147 Confirm Dates
  • Get Instant Confirmation Saturday 25 May, 2024 Saturday 8 Jun, 2024 English €2,175 Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h
  • Get Instant Confirmation Saturday 8 Jun, 2024 Saturday 22 Jun, 2024 English €2,175 Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h
  • Get Instant Confirmation Saturday 22 Jun, 2024 Saturday 6 Jul, 2024 English Filling Fast €2,175 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h
  • -5% Get Instant Confirmation Wednesday 24 Jul, 2024 Wednesday 7 Aug, 2024 English €2,175 €2,066 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour ends in Ho Chi Minh City, and after breakfast travellers are free to depart the accommodation at any time. Take the day to tick off some of the suggested optional excursions, or move on to your next destination!

The tour starts at the May de ville City Centre 2 Hotel, which is located adjacent to Hanoi's old quarter. At 6pm an important welcome meeting will be held, where you can get to know your guide and tour group. You have the day to explore and settle in, but be sure to arrive back at your accommodation in time for the meeting, the details of which can be found at your hotel reception.

We are happy to pre-book your departure and arrival transfers, however this is not included in the tour price and will be an extra charge. Please contact our Travel Experts to arrange this once you have a confirmed booking. Alternately, metered taxi ranks are situated outside the airport entrance. At exit gates A4 and A5 on level 1, you will find Noi Bai Airport taxis (+84 4 3886 8888) The drivers are identifiable by their yellow uniform shirt. This company charge per trip, and a taxi to your hotel should cost approx. US$18 (VND350000) in total.

Of course we can! If you wish to arrange additional accommodation then please contact our customer support team once you have a confirmed booking.

This tour accepts travellers between ages 15 - 99, however the general age range of participants is from early 20's to late 30's.

Many solo travellers join this trip, and you will be roomed with a member of the same gender for no additional cost. This is an amazing way to bond with your fellow travellers and enrich your travel experience! If you did want a little more privacy then a single supplement can be paid in most cases, and we can arrange you a private room for the duration of the trip. Please contact our travel experts for more information.

All accommodations are subject to change until 4-6 weeks before the departure date, therefore the tour operator cannot confirm a set hotel list until this time. You will be spending 12 nights in a hotel, 1 night at a homestay and 1 night on an overnight sleeper train. This trip is classed as one of Intrepid's Originals style tours, and the accommodations are selected to provide travellers with an authentic local and cultural experience. Hopefully, this list will give you a better idea of what kind of accommodation you can expect while on tour.

Flights before and after the tour are not included in the tour price and you need to arrange these separately by yourself once your tour is guaranteed. As we specialise in organising the best tours around the world for you, we are unable to advise on flight prices or book flights on your behalf. If you have not already booked your flights we recommend checking out the following link which is powered by Skyscanner - https://flights.tourradar.com

Bike hire is not included in the trip cost. You may choose to bring your own bike or hire one in Hanoi. HIRING YOUR BIKE IN HANOI: Bike Hire is available from Intrepid's local operator in Hanoi. Please advise your agent at the time of booking your height so that an appropriately sized frame can be organised for you. The cost will be for the whole trip and this includes the relocation of the bike back to Hanoi at the end of the trip. This is to be paid to your Group Leader. The bikes available for hire from the local operator are either TREK 4500, Giant Revel or Giant Rincon (for Days 2-5) and then Giant Rincon Disc (Days 6-14). Bikes have aluminium frames, 64cm wheels and off-road tyres. If you wish you can bring your own seat, clips and accessories, based on fitting the above models. Alternatively, your leader can assist if you would like to purchase any accessories locally (extras are not available for hire).

You are free to join and leave your group whenever you please, however, as these are pre packaged prices it will not alter the tour cost. You would then need to make plans for your departure transportation independently as well.

Got a question about this tour?

Reach out to our travel experts.

Good to Know

  • Currency ₫ Dong Vietnam

As a traveller from USA, Canada you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, G. As a traveller from England you will need an adaptor for types A, B, C, E, F. As a traveller from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types A, B, C, E, F, G.

  • These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
  • Typhoid - Recommended for Vietnam. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
  • Hepatitis A - Recommended for Vietnam. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
  • Cholera - Recommended for Vietnam. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
  • Tuberculosis - Recommended for Vietnam. Ideally 3 months before travel.
  • Hepatitis B - Recommended for Vietnam. Ideally 2 months before travel.
  • Rabies - Recommended for Vietnam. Ideally 1 month before travel.
  • Yellow fever - Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an area with a risk of yellow fever transmission for Vietnam. Ideally 10 days before travel.
  • Japanese B encephalitis - Recommended for Vietnam. Ideally 1 month before travel.
  • Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
  • Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
  • For any tour departing before 13th May 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 13th May 2024, a minimum payment of €400 is required to confirm your booking with Intrepid Travel. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 60 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
  • Some departure dates and prices may vary and Intrepid Travel will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
  • The following cards are accepted for "Intrepid Travel" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
  • Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
  • Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
  • Sailing in Thailand
  • Group size is between 1 and 15 Greek Islands …
  • Milan, Venice & the Gems of Northern Italy (2…
  • Langtang Valley
  • Exclusive Adventures with Ciconia
  • Ngorongoro Maps of Conservation Area & Crater
  • 10 Best River Cruise Companies (with Reviews)
  • Discover Vietnam
  • Main Page Video
  • TourRadar presents Cycling Through Hoi An

Discover Vietnam

Similar Tours

Walking in Vietnam Tour

Keep Exploring Vietnam

  • Vietnam Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
  • 10 Best Cycling Tour Companies 2024/2025
  • 10 Amazing Private Bicycle Tours 2024/2025
  • 10 Best Cycling Tours 2024/2025
  • Vietnam from Hanoi
  • Vietnam Bicycle
  • 15 days Vietnam
  • From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City
  • Operators in Asia
  • Cycle Vietnam Tours in Vietnam
  • Bicycle Tours
  • Vietnam Tours
  • Active Tours
  • Family Tours
  • Group Tours
  • Fully Guided Tours
  • Christmas & New Year Tours
  • Vietnam tours

IMAGES

  1. Vietnam Discovery (10 destinations) by Intrepid Travel with 21 Tour

    intrepid travel vietnam review

  2. Classic Vietnam (9 destinations) by Intrepid Travel with 19 Tour

    intrepid travel vietnam review

  3. Vietnam Express Southbound by Intrepid Travel with 66 Tour Reviews

    intrepid travel vietnam review

  4. Classic Vietnam by Intrepid Tours with 1 Reviews

    intrepid travel vietnam review

  5. Intrepid goes high-end with new Premium tour range

    intrepid travel vietnam review

  6. Intrepid Travel Vietnam Reviews

    intrepid travel vietnam review

COMMENTS

  1. Tour Review: Intrepid Travel Vietnam Express Southbound

    Tour Review: Intrepid Travel Vietnam Express Southbound. This 10-day Vietnam Express Southbound tour starts in the north, in Vietnam's capital city of Hanoi, and ends in Ho Chi Minh City in the south. In between, the tour itinerary takes you to popular spots in Vietnam including Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, and the Mekong Delta.

  2. Intrepid Travel Vietnam Reviews

    Intrepid Travel Vietnam Reviews; A holiday in Vietnam carries a certain allure that escapes some of its neighbouring countries, and has much to do with the post-war legacy and subsequent evolution as a top tourist destination in South East Asia. Immortalised so widely and vividly in film and literature, Vietnam is the kind of place that many ...

  3. Tour Review: Vietnam Express Southbound with Intrepid Travel

    So I got in touch with Intrepid, and within a few weeks was booked on a tour for the first couple of weeks of my Southeast Asia trip. My stress levels instantly lowered. The tour, it turned out, was actually TWO tours connected in the middle - one in Vietnam and one in Cambodia. And so I've decided to review them separately, since I had two ...

  4. Real Vietnam by Intrepid Travel

    100+ reviews. 94%. By Intrepid Travel. premier. Health Safety +. USTOA. Small Group Tour. From Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi, you'll experience authentic Vietnam on this epic 15-day adventure from south to north. See how the locals live on the Mekong Delta, discover the rich history in Hoi An and taste some amazing food in Hue.

  5. Best of Vietnam

    Best of Vietnam. From. USD $2,300. View dates and book. The best small group tour means you'll travel the local way. Affordable travel packages and the experience of a lifetime. Book an Intrepid tour today.

  6. Classic Vietnam by Intrepid Travel

    100+ reviews. 94%. By Intrepid Travel. premier. Health Safety +. USTOA. Small Group Tour. From south to north, Vietnam is a kaleidoscope of welcoming locals, varied cuisine and diverse landscapes. Unlock the mysteries of the Viet Minh in Ho Chi Minh City, explore the beautiful lakes and boulevards of Hanoi, mingle with the locals while staying ...

  7. Essential Vietnam by Intrepid Travel

    100+ reviews. 94%. Download brochure. By Intrepid Travel. premier. Health Safety +. USTOA. Small Group Tour. As you slink from old-world Hanoi through ancient Hue, past historic Hoi An and to bustling Ho Chi Minh City, you'll quickly realise that the Vietnamese know a thing or two about delicious food.

  8. Classic Vietnam by Intrepid Travel with 19 Tour Reviews

    Classic Vietnam, a 15 days tour from Ho Chi Minh City to Mekong Delta, Ho Chi Minh City and 6 destinations. Best Selection - Best Price - Trusted Payments ... Review collected by Intrepid Travel. Show More Reviews Dates & Availability . 15 days. Classic Vietnam. From Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi. No credit card fees.

  9. Intrepid Travel Vietnam Tours

    Vietnam tours operated by Intrepid Travel with 254 reviews (26 tours in total). Book and save with TourRadar.com - Best Price Guarantee. 0. Destinations. ... All Vietnam Intrepid Travel Tour Reviews Bev Tankard 17 Feb, 2019. 4. A very busy whistle stop tour of Vietnam. You visit HCMC Hoi An and Hanoi.

  10. Intrepid Travel Review

    Intrepid Travel Reviews. Intrepid Travel is well-reviewed across many of the major review sites. Many customers have recently taken to these sites to negatively review Intrepid's cancellation and refund policy in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Trustpilot: 2.8 out of 5. TourRadar: 4.6 out of 5.

  11. Intrepid Travel Reviews

    Intrepid Travel is Top Notch. I have gone on five Intrepid trips in the past year -- Cycling Viet Nam, Morocco, Turkey, Costa Rica and Borneo. I have been extremely happy with the itineraries, which have included some physically challenging activities (sometimes included and sometimes optional) along with the homestays.

  12. Intrepid Travel Vietnam Reviews

    Intrepid Travel Vietnam Reviews; A holiday in Vietnam carries a certain allure that escapes some of its neighbouring countries, and has much to do with the post-war legacy and subsequent evolution as a top tourist destination in South East Asia. Immortalised so widely and vividly in film and literature, Vietnam is the kind of place that many ...

  13. Explore Vietnam (including Cat Ba Island) by Intrepid Travel with 23

    Explore Vietnam (including Cat Ba Island), a 11 days tour from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island, Ninh Binh and 3 destinations. Best Selection - Best Price - Trusted Payments. Deals of the Week Women's Day Up to 50% OFF. Deals end: 11 Mar, 2024 ... Review collected by Intrepid Travel. A.

  14. Intrepid Travel Vietnam Reviews

    Read the top Vietnam holiday reviews from real travellers who've been on a trip to Vietnam with Intrepid Travel. Research your next holiday destination here! MENU +1 510-379-4907 +1 510-379-4907; Live Chat (Offline) My Booking; My Wishlist. Home; Find a Trip. Home; Destinations . Back ...

  15. Premium Vietnam by Intrepid Travel

    Reviews, prices, videos, photos, and itinerary for Premium Vietnam. Compare similar trips and tour companies to find your perfect vacation at the...

  16. Premium Vietnam in Depth

    From. USD $3,573. Add to my wishlist. View dates and book. Show all the images. Discover Vietnam's kaleidoscope of fascinating history, hospitable people and picturesque landscapes on a 15-day Premium adventure. Learn the mysteries of the Viet Minh in Ho Chi Minh City, explore the beautiful lakes and boulevards of Hanoi and get a glimpse of ...

  17. Vietnam Family Holiday Comfort by Intrepid Travel with 10 Tour Reviews

    With the Explorer tour Vietnam Family Holiday Comfort, you have a 13 days tour package taking you through Hanoi, Vietnam and 5 other destinations in Vietnam. Vietnam Family Holiday Comfort includes accommodation in a hotel as well as an expert guide, meals, transport and more. Expand All. Introduction. Day 1 Hanoi. Day 2 Hanoi. Day 3 Halong Bay.

  18. Premium Vietnam

    Premium Vietnam. From. USD $2,024. View dates and book. The best small group tour means you'll travel the local way. Affordable travel packages and the experience of a lifetime. Book an Intrepid tour today.

  19. Intrepid Travel Reviews

    Do you agree with Intrepid Travel's 4-star rating? Check out what 1,862 people have written so far, and share your own experience. | Read 61-80 Reviews out of 1,832 ... Thank you for leaving such a lovely review. Vietnam is such a great place to visit and the people are some of the friendliest in the world! Our leaders really are the heart of ...

  20. Cycle Vietnam by Intrepid Travel with 57 Tour Reviews (Code: TVXB

    Vietnam Luxury Holiday 1... 14 days from $1,964. Authentic Vietnam - 14 D... 14 days from $1,980. Cycle Vietnam. 14 days from $2,550. Cycle Vietnam, a 15 days tour from Hanoi to Mai Chau, Ninh Binh and 6 destinations. Best Selection - Best Price - Trusted Payments.

  21. Best Vietnam Tours & Vacations 2024/2025

    Wherever we travel, it's the flavors we remember best. A crusty bánh mì or streetside pho, seafood cù lao hotpots and (scarily addictive) coffee with condensed milk. Vietnam tours are tasty, plain and simple. We won't just drop you in Halong Bay and call it a day. Our local leaders will introduce you to rice farmers in Sapa and fishermen on the Mekong Delta. They'll guide you through ...

  22. Best Vietnam Tours & Holidays 2024/2025

    Wherever we travel, it's the flavours we remember best. A crusty bánh mì or streetside pho, seafood cù lao hotpots and (scarily addictive) coffee with condensed milk. Vietnam tours are tasty, plain and simple. We won't just drop you in Halong Bay and call it a day. Our local leaders will introduce you to rice farmers in Sapa and fishermen on the Mekong Delta. They'll guide you through ...