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Vietnam

A fascinating country, shaped by a rich history, cultural diversity and striking natural landscapes.
Vietnam gives you the unique opportunity to explore the past while engaging with local communities in the present – taking part in hands-on cultural exchanges and discovering stunning ecosystems, from rural rice terraces to limestone cliffs. Take an educational journey that builds global awareness, enables personal growth and boldly brings classroom learning to life.
Icon for nights 7 - 28 nights
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Ideal for Geography, Biology & Conservation, History & Religion, Community Projects

Highlights

  • Ha Long Bay Overnight Cruise

  • Hanoi Old Quarter

  • Water Puppet Show

  • Nature Reserve Trek

  • Rural Community Project

Sample itinerary

Here’s how your school trip to Vietnam could look. Take this as a starting point and tailor it to your school (including duration, locations and activities).

Day 1

Your Vietnam trip begins in Hanoi

Chao Ban! Welcome to Hanoi! You will be met by your Gapforce leader at the airport before you take a private transfer to your accommodation, taking in the charms of the city. You will have time to rest after your long journey, before dinner and a welcome briefing. 

Day 2

Hanoi city tour

Depart early for a full day exploring Hanoi’s highlights. Visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and The Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university. After lunch, choose a museum or temple to discover before experiencing local culture up-close at Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter, and ending the day watching a famous Water Puppet Show. 

Day 3

Pu Luong nature reserve hike

This morning you leave Hanoi for Ton Village and enjoy a picnic lunch before hiking (7-8kms) into Pu Luong Nature Reserve. This intermediate trek, with some uphill climbs, rewards you with breathtaking views of rice terraces and local villages. Arrive in Son Village later that afternoon, settle into your homestay, and unwind over dinner. 

Day 4–7

Son Village – Community project

Perched in the mountains, Son Village is beautiful yet isolated. Since 2016, volunteers have worked alongside locals to improve access to clean water and maintain vital village trails. For the next few days, you’ll join them—helping strengthen this resilient community and experiencing daily life in a truly unforgettable setting. 

Day 8

Son Village – Scenic hike

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before we set off on a gentle, scenic trek (5–7km). Take in breathtaking views at a relaxed pace, arriving at charming Cao Village after 2.5 hours. From there, we’ll whisk you to Pho Doan for a well-earned lunch, then enjoy a scenic drive back to Hanoi for an overnight stay. 

Day 9

Ha Long Bay – Junk cruise

This morning you head to Ha Long Bay. After boarding the cruise boat and receiving a briefing, you’ll enjoy a fresh, locally sourced seafood lunch as the boat sails to Bai Tu Long Bay. On arrival you will have a chance to swim and relax at a secluded-island beach. Back onboard, you will enjoy dinner before sleeping under the stars. 

Day 10

Ha Long Bay rowboat ride

Wake early to catch a stunning sunrise over the Bay. After breakfast, join locals for a peaceful rowboat ride for a closer inspection of the limestone karsts, and take a final refreshing swim. Relax as we cruise back to the harbour whilst enjoying lunch onboard, before heading back to Hanoi for a farewell dinner. 

Day 11

Fly home from Hanoi

After days packed with discovery, it’s time to journey home. As you make your way to the airport and reflect on all you’ve experienced – the challenges you embraced, the landscapes you explored, and the people you met – you’ll realise how much you’ve seen and achieved in a short time. 

This trip will broaden horizons, strengthen skills, and offer a deeper connection to the world. Students return not only with memories, but with perspectives and experiences that will continue to shape their futures. 

Learning beyond the classroom

Discovery is one of the most powerful ways to learn. Through cultural immersion, hands-on projects, outdoor adventures and meaningful local interactions, students experience learning in action while developing confidence, curiosity and a deeper connection to the world around them. Below are some of the curriculum areas this expedition can support.

  • Community Impact:

    Support clean water and infrastructure improvement projects.

  • Adventure & Outdoor Learning:

    Mountain treks, bay exploration and village expeditions.

  • Field Studies:

    Explore karst landscapes, rice terraces and rural communities.

  • Cultural Immersion:

    Experience village life, traditions and Vietnamese customs.

  • Sustainability:

    Learn about sustainable living and natural environments.

  • Heritage & History:

    Discover Vietnam's heritage, independence and cultural landmarks.

learning outcomes

Students will:

  • See the curriculum come to life through real-world experiences.

  • Explore key historical sites to deepen knowledge of Vietnam’s historical, political and cultural past.

  • Develop global awareness by engaging with diverse local communities and the challenges they face.

  • Understand the importance of biodiversity and sustainable tourism in maintaining fragile ecosystems.

  • Grow independence, self-awareness and leadership through structured travel, reflection and intercultural exchange.

feeling inspired

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