Embark on a 10-day visual journey through the heart of Vietnam, where ancient culture, vibrant landscapes, and timeless traditions come alive before your lens. The adventure begins in Hanoi, where you’ll explore the city’s historic charm and photograph the colorful incense village, bustling ceramic road, and traditional craft communities. From quiet village life to the dynamic streets of the capital, each day offers a unique window into Vietnam’s rich cultural tapestry.
From there, we travel south through some of the country’s most breathtaking natural locations. In Ninh Binh, limestone karsts rise dramatically from emerald rice paddies, setting the stage for awe-inspiring compositions. The road then leads to Mu Cang Chai, home to Vietnam’s most iconic rice terraces. Here, we greet the day with sunrise shoots over the curved golden hills, visit ethnic minority villages, and explore remote corn houses and bamboo forests, immersing ourselves in rural life and scenery.
Midway through the tour, a flight takes us to Hue, the former imperial capital. Surrounded by historical relics and riverside beauty, we photograph traditional flower-making villages, serene fishermen, and magical floating candles at dusk. The cultural depth of Hue offers both quiet moments and dramatic storytelling opportunities, further enriching your portfolio with emotional, human-centered imagery.
The tour concludes in Hoi An, a town where time slows down and light dances on colorful walls and waterways. We’ll capture the iconic fishing nets of Cua Dai, the charming ancient streets at sunset, and the traditional crafts that define this coastal community. By the time we arrive at Da Nang Airport on the final day, you’ll leave not only with an extraordinary collection of images but also with a deeper connection to Vietnam’s soul—seen through your camera and felt in every step of the journey.
To book a tour please fill up the form on the bottom of this page.
Day 1, 11 September
A new adventure awaits as you arrive in the charming capital city of Hanoi. With visa on arrival now available for many countries and no quarantine needed, choose from a range of airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, VietJetAir, or Bamboo Airways to make your arrival convenient and comfortable. Aim to arrive between 8-9 AM local time, to maximize your time and allow for a seamless start to your photo tour. It is highly recommended to arrive a day earlier, to relax and get acclimated. We’ll provide a hotel recommendation so you can stay at the same place.
Meeting 1:00 pm hotel lobby. Please have lunch before the meeting time.
We’ll begin our journey with a visit to the traditional incense village of Hanoi, where artisans have been hand-crafting incense sticks for generations. This unique and vibrant location provides a feast for the eyes, you can either use your camera or a drone to make a top bird-eye view of the iconic scene! Get ready to create award winning images that are truly special and that will evoke the senses long after you’ve left this magical place.
In the afternoon we’ll travel back to Hanoi and have first welcome dinner together.
Dinner included first day.
Day 2
We set out to capture Hanoi’s iconic ceramic road in the soft morning light, an ideal time for photography with fewer crowds and the best natural lighting conditions.
Return to the hotel for a refreshing breakfast and some time to recharge before continuing our journey.
Travel to the charming Ban village, where we gain insight into the traditional soy sauce-making process. This visit offers a close look at a centuries-old craft and an opportunity to photograph local artisans at work.
Enjoy a relaxing lunch in a serene setting, with regional dishes that reflect the area’s culinary traditions.
In the afternoon, we visit a local workshop to observe and document the intricate process of crafting bamboo fishing traps. This is a chance to capture the detailed artistry and rhythmic pace of the makers’ work.
The day concludes with a group dinner. Over the meal, there will be time to exchange experiences, review photographs, and discuss highlights from the day.
Day 3
After breakfast and hotel checkout, we begin our journey to the picturesque Duong Lam village, a well-preserved settlement known for its ancient houses and timeless rural charm.
Upon arrival, we explore the village’s narrow lanes and traditional architecture, stopping to photograph local life. A highlight of the visit is meeting and photographing elderly villagers, whose faces and expressions reflect generations of history and cultural heritage.
Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch prepared with regional specialties, offering a taste of authentic village cuisine.
After lunch, we continue our journey south to Ninh Binh, a region often called “Ha Long Bay on land” for its striking limestone karst landscapes and lush rice fields. The scenic drive provides opportunities for roadside photography and glimpses of rural life.
By evening, we arrive in Ninh Binh and check into our hotel, where we are welcomed by the serene backdrop of dramatic limestone cliffs and winding rivers. Dinner will be served at the hotel or a nearby restaurant, closing the day with relaxation and preparation for the days ahead.
Day 4
The day begins before dawn with a photography session among the floating water lilies. In the quiet of the morning, we capture the delicate reflections of first light dancing across the still waters — a serene and rewarding subject for both wide landscapes and intimate detail shots.
After breakfast and hotel checkout, we set out on a scenic drive toward Mu Cang Chai. The journey takes us deeper into Vietnam’s rural heartland, where winding roads open to views of terraced fields, mountain passes, and traditional villages. Along the way, we’ll have opportunities to stop for spontaneous photography of landscapes and everyday rural life.
A hearty lunch is served at a local restaurant along the route, offering a break from travel and a taste of regional cuisine.
In the late afternoon, we make a special stop at the Tu Le viewpoint. From here, sweeping golden valleys unfold in every direction, especially stunning in the soft glow of the setting sun. This is one of the most memorable locations for landscape photography, with endless opportunities to frame the terraces and surrounding mountains in warm evening light.
By evening, we reach our hotel in Mu Cang Chai, where we settle in and enjoy a warm dinner together. Surrounded by the peaceful hills of northern Vietnam, the evening is a time to relax, review the day’s captures, and prepare for the adventures ahead.
Day 5
The day begins with an exhilarating motorbike ride to the iconic Mam Xoi viewpoint, one of Mu Cang Chai’s most celebrated photography spots. From this vantage point, terraced rice fields curve gracefully across the hillsides, often blanketed in soft morning mist. The early light provides the perfect conditions to capture sweeping panoramas and the intricate geometry of the terraces.
After the morning shoot, we return for a well-earned breakfast and some time to refresh before continuing the day’s explorations.
In the afternoon, we visit a traditional corn house, an essential part of local agricultural life. Here, we gain insight into the community’s farming practices and have the opportunity to photograph authentic rural architecture. We then continue to nearby rice terraces, where the warm glow of the afternoon sun highlights the textures and patterns of the fields. This is a prime time to capture the landscape’s depth and beauty as the light shifts across the hills.
The day concludes with dinner back at our hotel or a local guesthouse, where the peaceful mountain surroundings create a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a chance to share stories, review photographs, and enjoy the quiet of Mu Cang Chai’s highland evenings.
Day 6
We begin the day at sunrise in Lao Chai, one of the region’s most breathtaking terrace landscapes. As the first light of day sweeps across the valley, the rice fields glow in layers of gold and green, offering ideal conditions for both wide-angle vistas and close-up compositions of rural life.
After breakfast, we continue our journey into the enchanting bamboo forest of Pung Luong. Towering groves of bamboo create a serene, almost mystical atmosphere, with dramatic shafts of light filtering through the dense canopy. This location provides unique photographic opportunities that contrast beautifully with the open rice landscapes.
A traditional lunch is served at a local restaurant, allowing time to recharge before the afternoon session.
Following lunch, we travel to one of the most photogenic highlights of the tour — the horseshoe-shaped rice terraces. This rare natural formation curves gracefully around the hills, forming an extraordinary composition for landscape photography.
As golden hour sets in, we position ourselves to capture the terraces under the most flattering light of the day. The warm tones of the setting sun bring out the depth, textures, and patterns of the land, creating unforgettable images.
After the shoot, we return for dinner at our accommodation, where we unwind in the quiet of the mountains and prepare for the next day’s journey.
Day 7
After a final morning in the north, we check out of our hotel and begin the drive back toward Hanoi. The route offers one last chance to take in the sweeping mountain views, terraced fields, and glimpses of daily rural life along the way.
We pause for lunch in Yen Bai, a charming provincial town that serves as a gateway between the highlands and the lowlands. A hearty local meal provides a welcome break during the journey.
Continuing onward, we transfer to Hanoi for our flight south to Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital. The short flight offers a change of scenery as we leave the rugged mountains behind and approach the historic city once home to emperors and dynasties.
Upon arrival in Hue, we check into our hotel and settle in. Dinner is served in the evening, giving us time to relax and enjoy the city’s atmosphere — a blend of royal legacy, poetic charm, and the fragrance of the Perfume River carried on the evening breeze.
Day 8
After breakfast, we travel to Thanh Tien village, renowned for its centuries-old tradition of crafting delicate paper flowers. This unique art form, passed down through generations, reflects the region’s creativity and spiritual devotion. We’ll have the opportunity to observe artisans at work and photograph the intricate process — from shaping petals to assembling vibrant blossoms that symbolize prosperity and good fortune.
Lunch will be enjoyed at a local restaurant, offering authentic Hue flavors and a short break before the afternoon photography session.
In the afternoon, we head to the riverbanks to document the lives of local fishermen. Their graceful movements, casting nets against the shimmering water, create striking compositions that reflect both livelihood and tradition. This session provides a perfect balance of action photography and scenic landscapes.
As the sun sets, we shift our focus to a more contemplative scene: floating candles drifting across the river. The soft glow of flickering light against the twilight sky offers a powerful visual and emotional moment, perfect for long exposures and creative compositions.
After dusk, we enter a sacred temple, where we light candles in quiet reverence. The warm glow inside the temple, contrasted with the silence of night, creates a serene atmosphere ideal for intimate, low-light photography. This experience also provides time for reflection and connection to Hue’s spiritual heritage.
We end the day with another delicious dinner, sharing stories and images while reflecting on a soulful day of craft, culture, and spirituality.
Day 9
After breakfast and hotel checkout, we drive south to Hoi An, a city celebrated for its rich history and vibrant culture. Arriving by late morning, we have the special opportunity to meet Madam Song, an iconic local figure known for her elegance and enduring influence among the artistic community. Participants can photograph her, capturing the grace and character that have made her a living legend in Hoi An.
Lunch is served at a local restaurant, followed by check-in at our hotel. This allows time to refresh and prepare for the afternoon activities.
In the afternoon, we board a traditional boat to explore the waters of Cua Dai. Here, fishermen demonstrate the centuries-old art of casting large conical nets, moving in rhythm like a choreographed ballet. This session provides excellent opportunities for dynamic compositions, action shots, and capturing life along the river.
As evening approaches, we return to Hoi An’s historic old town. Lantern-lit alleys, ancient architecture, and the warm glow of sunset provide a magical setting for street and architectural photography. Participants can immerse themselves in the charm and ambience of the city, capturing both candid moments and iconic scenes.
The day concludes with dinner at a local restaurant, offering a chance to relax, reflect on the day’s experiences, and share photographs captured during this unforgettable day in Hoi An.
Day 10 – September 20, 2026
Our final day begins early with a photography session focused on the quiet rhythm of daily life. Local artisans mend and sew fishing nets with meticulous care, offering a glimpse into a centuries-old craft that supports the livelihoods of coastal communities. This is a perfect opportunity to capture candid portraits, detailed close-ups of hands at work, and the subtle interplay of light and shadow in an authentic village setting.
Next, we visit a group of skilled sedge mat weavers. Surrounded by vibrant colors and intricate patterns, participants can photograph the weavers at work, showcasing both the artistry and cultural heritage of this traditional craft. The scene provides dynamic compositions, blending human activity with the vivid textures and hues of the mats.
After capturing these final photographic gems, we enjoy one last breakfast together. Participants then return to the hotel to pack and complete the checkout process, reflecting on the highlights of the journey.
By 12:00 PM, we depart for Da Nang Airport, concluding our tour. As you board your onward flight, you carry with you not only unforgettable memories and new friendships but also a rich collection of images that tell the story of your journey through Vietnam — from bustling markets and tranquil rivers to terraced mountains and vibrant cultural traditions.
Price: 7900 USD
Single supplement: 1000 USD (upgrade from twin to single room)
Where do we stay
In Ha Noi, Da Nang, Hue, Hoi An, Saigon we stay at 5 star hotels. In Mu Cang Chai we stay in amazing newly opened 5 star resort. Traveling on a comfortable private bus – only all window seats (2 seats per person).
Photography Level
- Beginners and advanced photographers
- DSLR / mirrorless / drone support in some areas
- Workshop for editing, post-processing (via Lightroom and/or Photoshop)
Tour Includes
- best available hotel in remote locations and best hotels in Hanoi – TWIN based (share with another participant of the same gender)
- Private air-conditioned transportation for listed activities
- 3 standard meals
- coffee breaks
- Unlimited bottled water
- Site entry fees (if applicable)
- Model fees (if applicable)
- local flights: Hanoi to Da Nang
- Photography guides
Tour Excludes
- International flight to arrive and depart from / to Vietnam
- Airport transfers
- Entry visa to Vietnam
- Travel insurance private (it is a must)
- Alcoholic beverages, mocktails etc extra drinks, personal expenses, tips
- Services and transportation are for listed activities only
- Charges will be applied for any additional requests
- Single supplement 1000 USD
Cancellation and Refund Policy
We strongly recommend you to get a Trip Cancellation & Travel Insurance after booking your trip. If you cancel and the Workshop is otherwise filled, we will refund you the full amount you have paid towards the tuition, minus a $300 service charge. If you cancel and the Workshop does not fill, then you will be refunded according to the following schedule, based on the full fee of the Workshop:
Greater than 90 days from the start date of the Workshop:
full refund minus $300 service fee.
75 days or more :75% refund 60 days or more: 50% refund
Less than 60 days: no refund Refunds will be paid by the same method that the original payment was made.
What to bring
Gear:
– DSLR or mirrorless camera with tripod and remote shutter release, its better to use spikes for your tripod
– A wide angle lens. For example, Nikkor 14-24 or Canon 17-40. Best lens for use in wide-angle scenes or architecture photography
– A middle-zoom lens such as a 24-70 mm
– A telephoto zoom lens, such as a 70-200 mm
– Drone is recommended
Wear:
– Waterproof and windproof jacket (light, will be around 20-30 C)
– Waterproof pants
– Warm down-jacket and thermal pants
– Casual clothes for dinners and lunches and photography workshops
Tour leader – Trần Tuấn Việt
To book a tour please fill up the form below.
Trần Tuấn Việt (Tran Tuan Viet) is an award-winning Vietnamese photographer and internationally published visual-storyteller, currently based in Hanoi, Vietnam. Being passionate about photography since 2007, Viet offers in his photographs the beauty of his motherland.
Devoted to dedication and creativity, Viet’s work is being commissioned by reputed clients including Google, Canon, Honda, Samsung, Hyundai, vivo, Huawei, etc. Viet’s photos are also widely published by renowned media outlets such as National Geographic, Discovery, Smithsonian, Forbes, CNN, The Guardian, etc.
Honored to be called “the photographer who brings the images of Vietnam to the world” (Vietnam News Agency, VnExpress, Tuổi Trẻ, Dân Trí, etc…), Viet uses photography to tell the world the beauty of Vietnam.
