Vibrant Vietnam Photography Tour - September 10-19, 2025
Description
Summary
Description
On September 9, we will embark on a photographic journey to experience the visually stunning landscapes and culturally rich scenes of Vietnam like never before with a photo tour that is second to none. Whether you are a professional photographer or an enthusiastic amateur, this expertly guided tour will allow you to capture the beauty and essence of this diverse country.
You'll be transported to some of the most photogenic locations in Vietnam, including iconic landmarks, traditional villages, bustling city markets, and scenic rural areas. With the expert guidance of the photo guides, you will learn new techniques, receive valuable feedback and critiques, and leave with a collection of stunning photos that beautifully capture the unique character and beauty of this incredible country.
Your journey will commence in the charming capital city of Hanoi, where you will capture the energy and vibrancy of its bustling streets, markets, and historical landmarks.
From Hanoi, your journey will take you to the picturesque rural district of Mu Cang Chai, celebrated for its awe-inspiring rice terrace fields and quaint Hmong villages. Here, you'll have the chance to capture the rustic beauty and the authentic way of life of the local residents through your lens.
Following your time in Mu Cang Chai, you'll venture to Da Nang, a coastal city renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant night markets, and distinctive bridges. Your lens will capture the lively atmosphere and unique charm of this coastal gem.
To conclude your adventure, you'll explore the enchanting ancient town of Hoi An. With its meticulously preserved Old Quarter, bustling street scenes, and picturesque riverside vistas, Hoi An offers an abundance of opportunities for you to encapsulate the essence of Vietnam in your photographs. From dynamic cityscapes to tranquil countryside, from historical treasures to traditional hamlets, this diverse itinerary promises a rich tapestry of visual storytelling. Get ready to create memories and capture images that will last a lifetime with this incredible Vietnam photo tour.
Included
Activities
Daily itinerary
Day 1 -
On day one, you will arrive in the charming capital city of Hanoi, and a new adventure awaits. With visa-on-arrival now available for many countries and no quarantine necessary, you can conveniently choose from a range of airlines, such as Vietnam Airlines, VietJetAir, or Bamboo Airways, for your arrival. To make the most of your time and ensure a seamless start to your photo tour, aim to arrive between 8-9 AM local time. It's highly recommended to arrive a day earlier giving you chance to relax and acclimate.
We'll make sure to provide a hotel recommendation so you can stay at the same place.
Our workshop will start around 2 pm in our hotel, from where we'll depart to explore Vietnamese traditional craft - incense making. You'll get to explore one of Vietnam’s traditional incense-making villages, where you’ll witness the intricate process of crafting incense sticks by hand. The village is filled with vibrant colors from the drying incense, creating a picturesque scene. Engage with local artisans, learn about their centuries-old methods, and even try your hand at making incense.
In th evening, we'll enjoy a warm and flavorful welcome dinner. This is the perfect way to unwind after an enriching day, as you get to know the group, savor the local cuisine and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Hanoi.
Day 2 -
The dawn of a new day brings an exhilarating opportunity to capture the beauty of one of Hanoi's most enchanting photography spots.
In the morning, we'll set our course for a traditional soy sauce makers' village. Here, you'll witness not only a time-honored process preserved across generations but also have the chance to capture vivid and colorful scenes within an authentically rustic courtyard.
As the day unfolds, we'll venture to a traditional bamboo fishing village nestled in the tranquil landscape of Hung Yen province. This idyllic setting provides a unique opportunity to observe and photograph the age-old art of bamboo basket fishing. Surrounded by rolling hills and serene waters, this charming village offers a glimpse into a way of life that has remained virtually unchanged for generations.
It is in this serene heartland of Vietnam's countryside that we'll have the privilege of meeting a remarkable artisan, Mr. Luong Son Bac, who, at the venerable age of 80, embodies time-honored traditions. With hands weathered by the passage of years, he skillfully crafts the "Đó," a fishing basket intricately woven from bamboo—a craft passed down through the ages.
After a day filled with discovery and wonder, we'll return to our 5-star hotel in Hanoi, refreshed and invigorated, ready to embark on the next leg of our journey through the heart of Vietnam.
Day 3 -
After breakfast, we will depart from the hotel, embarking on a scenic drive towards Duong Lam village, a charming ancient village located on the outskirts of Hanoi. The journey is a chance to take in the peaceful countryside views.
We will arrive in Duong Lam village, where we will spend time interacting with the elderly women of the village. Known for their deep knowledge of local traditions, these women will offer you a unique insight into rural life in Vietnam. You can observe their daily activities, learn about their customs, and hear their stories that preserve the essence of Vietnam’s heritage. This stop will provide an enriching cultural experience.
In the afternoon, we'll explore the magnificent bamboo forest of Mu Cang Chai. This breathtaking location provides the perfect opportunity to take a walk in a unique environment and finding opportunities for photography. We'll be surrounded by towering bamboo trees, rustling leaves, and the gentle sounds of the forest.
Day 4 -
On this unforgettable day, we greet the early hours and embark on a journey deep into the heart of the northwest region. Our adventure begins at 4 AM as we proceed to a designated parking area, where we'll transition to a short bike ride to reach one of Mu Cang Chai's most iconic vistas, the Mam Xoi viewpoint. As the first light of dawn emerges and the sun graces the horizon, you'll have the privilege of capturing the awe-inspiring splendor of Mu Cang Chai in its full grandeur. This breathtaking landscape envelops you with its vibrant green expanses, undulating hills, and the captivating rice terraces that stretch as far as the eye can see.
With your camera at the ready, you'll bear witness to the most spellbinding views of Mu Cang Chai, as the morning sun bathes the rolling hills in a golden hue and the mist gracefully dissipates from the valleys below. As the day gradually unfolds and more visitors arrive to partake in this spectacle, we'll savor the serenity and magnificence of this idyllic spot until 8 AM when we'll continue our expedition. Brace yourself for an opportunity to craft indelible memories and capture stunning imagery as you immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Mu Cang Chai.
Following this remarkable morning of capturing Mu Cang Chai's breathtaking beauty, we retreat to our hotel for a well-earned breakfast. Reinvigorated and rejuvenated, we embark on the next phase of our journey, venturing toward the heart of the H'Mong ethnic community.
Camera in hand, we'll immortalize the picturesque charm of their traditional dwellings, framed by fields of golden corn. Engaging with these warm and hospitable locals, we'll have the chance to capture their portraits and gain deeper insights into their distinct culture and time-honored traditions. We'll spend the ensuing two hours documenting the splendor of this idyllic locale before returning to our hotel for a delectable lunch.
Day 5 -
A fresh day dawns, bringing with it new adventures and captivating photographic opportunities. With the sun ascending, we eagerly set forth to capture the breathtaking vistas of the rice terraces, framed by lush green panoramas and undulating hills. The morning's gentle light offers an ideal canvas for crafting images that are not only awe-inspiring but also etched into memory forever.
After breakfast, we'll venture into the peaceful Pung Luong bamboo forest, where towering bamboo groves create a tranquil atmosphere. Walk through this serene landscape while learning about the importance of bamboo in local culture and daily life.
Visit the "Corn House", a local architectural gem, and then journey to the iconic Horseshoe rice terraces. Spend the afternoon exploring these breathtaking landscapes, where the cascading terraces resemble a giant horseshoe, curving gracefully along the hillside. As the sun begins to set, the golden light illuminates the terraces, offering a mesmerizing and unforgettable sight.
Day 6 -
We'll start our day with an early breakfast at your hotel, followed by a quick checkout to prepare for your journey south.
After breakfast, we'll head to Noi Bai Airport for your flight to Da Nang, ensuring a smooth and timely arrival at the airport.
There, we'll enjoy a relaxing and leisurely lunch at the business lounge. Indulge in a selection of premium dishes, allowing you to unwind before your flight.
Upon arrival in Da Nang, take a scenic drive to Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its preserved historical charm and unique architecture.
We'll arrive in Hoi An just in time to witness the magical sunset over the ancient town. The golden light bathes the lantern-lined streets and iconic yellow buildings, creating a picturesque setting perfect for a peaceful stroll or capturing unforgettable photos.
We'll conclude our day with a delightful dinner, enjoying the region's unique culinary specialties.
Day 7 -
Our day commences with a journey of exploration, aimed at capturing the exquisite beauty and rich traditions of Vietnam through the lens of our cameras. In the early morning hours, we begin by immersing ourselves in the artistry of local fishermen as they expertly cast their expansive nets—a timeless and captivating representation of the region's culture. This unique opportunity allows us to encapsulate the genuine essence of the local populace and their way of life.
Known as "Ro Cho," this distinctive method of fishing involves nets fashioned like floating houses, and it's not merely about aesthetics. During our expedition, we have the privilege of documenting Mr. Muoi, who has honed this skill for an astounding 46 years!
Following this remarkable experience, we shift our focus to a portrait session with an elderly lady affectionately known as "the most beautiful elder of Vietnam." Her elegance and grace epitomize the spirit of the nation, and her story is one that merits being immortalized and shared.
Our photographic journey continues as we capture the vibrant scenes of grass mat-making and embark on a delightful ride to photograph the classical coracle boats, affectionately referred to as "coconut boats."
As the day unfolds, brimming with a kaleidoscope of colors, we conclude our adventure with an authentic dinner featuring delectable Vietnamese cuisine in the charming town of lanterns, Hoi An.
Day 8 -
After breakfast, we'll complete check-out process and get ready for our trip to Hue.
Along the way, enjoy the changing landscapes as you pass through coastal roads and lush green hills.
We'll srrive in Hue just in time for lunch and after lunch, we'll check in to our hotel and take a moment to relax before exploring Hue's historical sites.
Our day commences with an enlightening journey of discovery as we explore The Imperial City of Hue, a distinguished UNESCO Heritage site. Within its ancient walls, we are enveloped by the opulent history and cultural legacy of this magnificent city. We'll seize the opportunity to capture poignant scenes featuring Vietnamese girls adorned in traditional attire—a resplendent and enduring embodiment of their cultural heritage.
As evening approaches, we'll experience a peaceful and symbolic moment by releasing floating candles on the waters of Thanh Tien Bridge. This traditional activity offers a moment of reflection and serenity, as you admire the peaceful beauty of the river and its surrounding scenery.
We'll conclude your day with a delightful dinner, savoring Hue's famous royal cuisine.
Day 9 -
Your day begins early with a serene journey to experience the magic of the countryside, ensuring you arrive in time for a stunning sunrise.
As the sun dips beneath the horizon, you’ll witness the breathtaking colors reflecting off the calm waters of Quang Loi Lagoon. The peaceful atmosphere, dotted with local fishing boats, offers a perfect moment of tranquility and photography.
After soaking in the sunrise, enjoy a hearty breakfast, recharging for the day ahead.
Our next stop - Thanh Tien flower village. Famed for its traditional craft of making paper flowers, this visit provides a glimpse into the village's 300-year-old artistry. Engage with local artisans and perhaps try your hand at crafting these delicate flowers.
In the afternoon, you'll get an immersive experience with local fishermen as they teach you the art of casting traditional nets over the lagoon waters. It’s an interactive and fun way to understand the daily life of the region’s fishing community.
As dusk falls, visit the historic Temple of Literature to participate in a symbolic and serene candle-lighting ceremony. This sacred moment connects visitors with Vietnam’s cultural heritage and offers a quiet pause in the day.
Day 10 -
Today, we'll immerse ourselves in the natural splendor of the Long An countryside and capture exquisite photographs of women harvesting waterlilies in their pristine habitat. These waterlilies are later sold at the market and are used both as a culinary ingredient for hotpot and for decorative purposes. Our journey commences with an early morning departure from your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, ensuring you're well-equipped with your photography gear.
Upon arrival in Long An, we'll head straight to the waterlily fields in the Mekong Delta, providing you with the opportunity to explore and capture the delicate beauty of these aquatic flowers. The morning light paints a serene and tranquil backdrop for your photography, offering an ideal atmosphere to capture stunning shots.
After our photography adventure, we'll return to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant. This will be a chance for you to review and share your best shots from the day. The tour concludes at noon at HCMC airport or at any hotel in the city, leaving you with the rest of the day to further explore the city, relax, and review the photos you've captured on this memorable day.
Guide Schedule Template
10-19 September 2025 - guided by Jabi Sanz and Trần Tuấn Việt
Guides
Jabi Sanz
View profile pageA passionate landscape photographer who discovered his love for capturing nature's beauty in Iceland. With a focus on landscapes and night scenes, Jabi teaches photography, leads tours, and shares his expertise worldwide. His work by him has gained international recognition. He's shaping the photography community. Proudly representing Kase Filters and Skylum Luminar, Jabi finds pure joy and creative fulfilment in his craft.
Jabi has been fascinated by the possibilities of photography since a vacation in Iceland in Aug 2017. He grew up in Pamplona, a small city in the province of Navarra in the North of Spain.
His parents always used to take him to explore nature, not far from his city. They have the incredible Pyrenees just an hour from their home. But he never had a camera or a passion for photography till that trip to Iceland, where he bought his first camera. That country blew his mind and now he can’t live without photography. Photography connects him to nature in a different way than he has ever experienced before. The source of his inspiration is nature. Nature is beautiful because it's alive, moving and he likes to feel insignificant for its greatness and beauty. Nature has made him travel and get to know places that I didn't think before I would go.
Unlike many other people, He is not a big-shot award winning photographer. He is a simple guy with a camera who doesn't enter contests because he doesn't create images to be competitive...it's just a fun outlet.
Landscape and night photography is his labour of work, since he discovered it a few years ago. He has dedicated all this time to study and improve this type of photography, trying to find the "perfect technique" both, in the field when taking the picture, as in the post-processing. Currently he teaches photography, editing and guided tours around the world. He always tries to transmit what he feels when he photographs to his students.