2027 Vibrant Vietnam Photography Tour I

Travel Plan

Accommodations

Helpful Information

Explorer Testimonials

• 2027 Vibrant Vietnam Photography Tour I Travel Plans

  Friday, April 30 (D)

  Hanoi: The Journey Begins
  Arrive in Hanoi, Vietnam, where you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel. Spend the afternoon at leisure, or join the group for a mid-afternoon excursion to a traditional bamboo basket-making village. Photograph the skilled artisans at work as you learn about this centuries-old craft, admiring the intricate designs and variety of shapes created from simple bamboo.

  We’ll gather for a group welcome dinner to indulge in elevated North Vietnamese cuisine. Overnight at InterContinental Hanoi Landmark72

  Please note: If you are booked on the Ha Long Bay pre-extension, arrive in Hanoi on April 27, 2027.

  Saturday, May 1 (B, L, D)

  Hanoi: A Tapestry of Crimson and Clay
  We begin at dawn in a vibrant incense village, where thousands of scarlet bundles create a stunning visual tapestry perfect for wide-angle and detail shots. The afternoon is dedicated to the tactile beauty of Hanoi’s ceramic road and the rustic charm of traditional soy sauce fermentation jars. We cap the day capturing the golden hour at a serene pagoda, documenting the intersection of spiritual life and architectural elegance. Overnight at InterContinental Hanoi Landmark72

  Sunday, May 2 (B, L, D)

  Hanoi – Phu Tho: Threads of Tradition
  Journey to the ancient village of Duong Lam to photograph the delicate process of winnowing and drying silk against a backdrop of weathered stone walls. After lunch, the palette shifts to the vivid hues of drying sedge and the ethereal, oceanic blues of artisans sewing sprawling fishing nets. This day is a deep dive into the “human element,” focusing on the rhythmic hands of Vietnam’s rural workforce. Overnight at InterContinental Hanoi Landmark72

  

  Monday, May 3 (B, L, D)

  Hanoi – Hue: Floral Mosaics and Imperial Flights
  Rise early for a conceptual shoot as farmers artfully arrange vibrant waterlilies on the water’s surface, creating a floral mosaic designed for high-impact aerial and telephoto work. After a refined lounge lunch, we transfer to the airport for our flight to the imperial city of Hue. The evening offers a quiet moment to review your portfolio over a gourmet dinner at our heritage hotel. Overnight at Meliá Vinpearl Hue

  Tuesday, May 4 (B, L, D)

  Hue: The Art of the Ancestors
  Explore the delicate artistry of Thanh Tien, where handcrafted paper flowers offer a kaleidoscope of color for macro and portrait photography. As the sun dips, we document the poetic release of floating flower garlands on the Perfume River, followed by a rare nocturnal session at a local temple. The flickering glow of hundreds of candles provides a moody, cinematic atmosphere for sophisticated long-exposure captures. Overnight at Meliá Vinpearl Hue

  Wednesday, May 5 (B, L, D)

  Hue: Elegance of the Meridian Gate
  Focus your lens on the timeless elegance of the Ao Dai as a professional model poses amidst the grand architecture of the Imperial City’s Meridian Gate. The interplay of royal crimson walls and traditional silk creates a high-fashion aesthetic within a deep historical context. The remainder of the day is yours to rest or wander the citadel’s quiet alleys at your own pace for candid street photography. Overnight at Meliá Vinpearl Hue

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  Thursday, May 6 (B, L, D)

  Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An: From Canopies to Lanterns
  Travel south to the Son Tra Peninsula, where we seek out the rare and vibrant Red-shanked douc langurs in their lush canopy habitat. This wildlife session requires patience and precision to capture the “Queen of Primates” against the emerald greenery before we move toward the coast. We conclude the day in the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, a UNESCO jewel that serves as our evening canvas. Overnight at Hotel Royal Hoi An Danang

  

  Friday, May 7 (B, L, D)

  Hoi An: Portraits and the Blue Net Ballet
  Begin the morning with an intimate portrait session featuring the iconic Madam Song, capturing the wisdom and grace etched into her features. We then head to the coast to document the spectacular “blue net” choreography as fishermen prepare for the day’s haul. The afternoon culminates in a dramatic shoot involving massive, billowing lift nets that transform the river into a work of abstract art. Overnight at Hotel Royal Hoi An Danang

  Saturday, May 8 (B, L, D)

  Phu Yen: Coastal Patterns and Lagoons
  Our journey continues toward the rugged coast of Phu Yen, stopping to photograph the geometric patterns and vibrant dyes of a traditional sleeping mat factory. The rhythmic weaving movements offer endless opportunities for dynamic action shots and cultural storytelling. We end the day at a tranquil lagoon, capturing the silhouettes of local life against a sprawling, pastel sunset. Overnight at Rosa Alba Resort

  Sunday, May 9 (B, L, D)

  Phu Yen – Khanh Hoa: The Maritime Heritage
  Experience the coastal “ballet” of giant fishing nets being cast in the morning light, followed by a visit to a factory where traditional coracle boats are meticulously crafted. These scenes provide a raw, authentic look at Vietnam’s maritime heritage and industrial artistry. We then transition to the pristine white sands of Doc Let Beach for a relaxing evening by the sea at our premium resort. Overnight at TTC Resort Van Phong Bay

  Monday, May 10 (B, L, D)

  Khanh Hoa – Ninh Thuan: Salt, Clay, and Canyons
  Capture the stark, shimmering beauty of the salt pans at sunrise, where workers harvest crystalline mounds under a mirror-like sky. In the afternoon, we shift our focus to the earth, documenting the ancient techniques at a Cham ceramic factory. The day ends with a pastoral sunset shoot at a local sheep farm, highlighting the unique nomadic lifestyle of the Ninh Thuan region. Overnight at Hoan My Resort Ninh Chu

  

  Tuesday, May 11 (B, L, D)

  Ninh Thuan – Mui Ne: Sands of Time
  Witness the ethereal beauty of the dunes at dawn, featuring a conceptual portrait session with the Cham people in traditional attire against the shifting shadows. The vast textures of the desert landscape provide a minimalist backdrop for powerful, high-contrast cultural imagery. En route to Mui Ne, we stop to photograph the sprawling arrays of fish drying in the sun, a staple of the coastal visual lexicon. Overnight at Hoan My Resort Ninh Chu

  Wednesday, May 12 (B, L, D)

  Binh Thuan: The Pulse of Local Life
  Capture the joy and movement of local children playing on the dunes during the soft morning light, followed by a visit to a traditional Banh Hoi factory. The afternoon is dedicated to the iconic fish sauce vats of Binh Thuan, where the scale of the fermentation process tells a sensory story. This day focuses on the authentic rhythms of the region, from playful spirits to the backbone of Vietnamese flavor. Overnight at Sea Links Beach Resort

  Thursday, May 13 (B)

  Binh Thuan – Ho Chi Minh City: The Final Frame
  After a final gourmet breakfast, we begin our comfortable transfer toward the energetic metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City. Reflect on two weeks of visual storytelling as we traverse the changing landscape from rural coastlines to the urban sprawl of the south. The tour concludes at Tan Son Nhat Airport, leaving you with a professional portfolio as rich and diverse as Vietnam itself. Depart from Ho Chi Minh City (airport code SGN) at 6:00 pm or later.

  Please note: Tanya will be on this tour, assisted by our local professional photographer and staff.

  • Guest Limits

    12 Guests Maximum

  • Trip Cost

    EXPLORER RATE: 12,400 pp, based on double occupancy

    NON-EXPLORER: Add 600

    Single supplement: 1,400

    Pricing in USD

  • Deposit

    $2000 Per person due at time of booking
    Visa, MasterCard, AmEx, Discover, or check accepted

    Deposits are non-refundable. If cancellations are necessary, we require this request in writing. We will do our best to resell your space. Only if we can resell your space, we will refund (minus the deposit and discounts given to sell your space). No partial refunds are possible for unused services.

  • Installments

    July 1, 2026: 6,000 pp first installment
    December 1, 2026: Final payment

    Installments are payable by check only. Please make checks payable to Natural Exposures and mail to:

    Natural Exposures
    810 N. Wallace, Suite E
    Bozeman, MT 59715

  • Included

    • Private small group travel with Tanya Cox, accompanied by a local professional photographer
    • Local English-speaking guide
    • Accommodations for 13 nights at 5-star hotels
    • Domestic flight Hanoi to Hue (Economy Class with VIP Lounge Access)
    • Meals where indicated (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
    • Airport transfers on scheduled arrival and departure days
    • All ground transportation during the tour (2 seats per guest in the vehicle)
    • Private boat trip (for fishermen) and motorbike trips (for red-shanked douc)
    • Entry tickets for locations in the itinerary
    • Bottled water in the field
    • Model shoot fees
    • Local license fees
    • Taxes

  • Not Included

    • International airfare
    • Travel/emergency medical evacuation insurance
    • Hotels pre-/post-tour
    • Airport transfers pre-/post-tour
    • Laundry, Internet charges, beverages, and other miscellaneous personal expenses
    • Attractions/activities not listed on the itinerary
    • Gratuities for guides/drivers

  • Flights to Book

    April 30, 2027*
    Arrive in Hanoi (airport code HAN) today. Arrive by 2:00 pm to join the optional afternoon outing. Welcome dinner this evening.

    May 13, 2027
    Depart from Ho Chi Minh City (airport code SGN) at 6:00 pm or later.

    *If you are booked on the Ha Long Bay pre-extension, arrive in Hanoi on April 27, 2027.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel/emergency medical evacuation insurance is not required for this photo tour, but we always recommend purchasing it for any trip. Emergency medical evacuation insurance is affordable and can be purchased for each trip or an entire year, and can even be bundled with your regular travel insurance! We recommend one or more of the following, depending on your needs:

    Global Rescue
    (use code natexp)

    Allianz Global Assistance 
    (use Travel Agent ACCAM F203564)

    Insure My Trip

  • Terms & Conditions

    Natural Exposures cannot control nor is responsible for abnormal weather, natural disasters, or any other disaster that might affect the trip. Travel insurance should be purchased to cover any missed flights or medical problems that may affect/delay your travel. National Parks have the right to change our itinerary.

    By booking a trip with Natural Exposures, you agree to the following CANCELLATION AND LIABILITY POLICY

• Accommodations for 2027 Vibrant Vietnam Photography Tour I

  April 30 and May 1-2, Hanoi (3 nights)
  InterContinental Hanoi Landmark72
  Situated at the heart of Hanoi’s new Central Business District, InterContinental Hanoi Landmark72 is the highest luxury hotel in Hanoi, atop the iconic Landmark72 Tower. The hotel offers five dining venues boasting dynamic cuisines and panoramic views of the cityscape. Treat yourself to the experience of immersing in the swimming pool overlooking the city skyline. Hotel guests can also enjoy access to the fitness center, yoga/zumba classes, table tennis, indoor mini golf, a sauna,  and a hot tub.

  May 3-5, Hue (3 nights)
  Meliá Vinpearl Hue
  The Meliá Vinpearl Hue is located in the heart of ancient Hue with a prime position, overlooking the Huong River and leaning on Ngu Mountain. The hotel emerges as a landmark of the city. The substantial cube design displays its modernity and energy, yet Meliá Vinpearl Hue still embraces the signature quintessence of Vietnam. Charming patterns of the sea and mountains, golden dragons, and phoenixes appear everywhere within the hotel space. Thoughtfully equipped rooms have everything you need for a comfortable stay.

  May 6-7, Hoi An (2 nights)
  Hotel Royal Hoi An Danang
  Each of the attractions at Hotel Royal Hoi An tells a unique tale, offering guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in adventure, romance, history, culture, nature, and other experiences during their stay. Luxurious rooms convey the fascinating love story of Sotaro and Wakaku, the inspiration for the hotel design. Awaken your senses, nourish your soul, and be the most authentic version of yourself. Hotel Royal Hoi An Danang provides all well-being services and amenities, as well as restorative facilities designed to bring relaxation and comfort to you.

  May 8, Phu Yen (1 night)
  Rosa Alba Resort
  In harmony with its awesome setting rises Rosa Alba Resort—a luxury beach resort inspirationally conceived to capture the essence of the surrounding natural wonders of the Central Coast of Vietnam and host the most welcome and appreciated guests with world-class facilities. Rosa Alba Resort offers the perfect setting for precious moments of romance, adventures, excitement, and memories to last a lifetime. The first step you take, the first scene you look at, the first moment you breathe in at Rosa Alba will be worth your unforgettable journey. Welcome to experience Rosa Alba in luxury.

  May 9, Khanh Hoa (1 night)
  TTC Resort Van Phong Bay
  Located in one of the 20 most beautiful beaches in the world. TTC Van Phong Bay Resort is a world-class hotel, cuisine, and entertainment complex, a top destination for relaxation in the region. This destination satisfies all needs, providing a perfect and unforgettable vacation for every guest. Amenities include a gym, sauna/steam room, an outdoor swimming pool, and a spa.

  May 10-11, Ninh Thuan (2 nights)
  Hoan My Resort Ninh Chu
  Set along the tranquil shores of Ninh Chu Beach, Hoan My Resort offers a refined coastal escape defined by understated luxury and comfort. Guests can enjoy a private beach, expansive outdoor pool, and serene spa. With attentive service and thoughtfully curated dining, the resort delivers a peaceful, high-end retreat on Vietnam’s south-central coast.

  May 12, Binh Thuan (1 night)
  Sea Links Beach Resort
  Sea Links Beach Resort is a 5-star hotel located in the highest part of the Sea Links City area, with an architectural style of terraced fields in Vietnam, and equipped with all modern amenities. The luxurious rooms feature private balconies with a view of the beach and pool.

• Helpful Information for 2027 Vibrant Vietnam Photography Tour I

  Passport and Visa

  U.S. Citizens: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry into Vietnam. One blank page is required for the entry stamp, and at least one additional page is required for the endorsement.

  A visa is required. Visas can be obtained online via the Ministry of Public Security Immigration Department for USD 25 before the trip. Please contact us before applying for your visa.

  Entry requirements may change before the trip. For the most up-to-date entry requirements, please visit the U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs or the Vietnam National Web Portal on Immigration.

  Vaccinations

  It’s always best to make sure you’re up to date with routine vaccinations and to check in with your doctor or a medical professional, ideally 4-6 weeks before travel, to discuss your personal needs. Please visit the CDC for the latest vaccination and health notices for travel to Vietnam.

  Activity Level

  This is an easy trip without long treks. There will be humidity and warm temps midday.

  Currency

  Vietnam’s official currency is the Vietnam Dong (VND). Since most of your needs are included in the trip, you will only need around 500,000 VND (approximately 20 USD) for each day of your stay. Currency exchange services are available at the airport. We will send suggestions for gratuities closer to the trip time.

  Weather

  Vietnam has both a tropical climate zone and a temperate climate zone. At this time of year, we can expect mostly sunny days with high humidity. Showers are possible, but during this time of year, there is usually not a lot of rain. We will have most of our photo shoots in the early mornings and in the evenings when the temperatures are less intense and the light is better for photography. This trip is at the edge of the high season for tourism.

  During this trip, average temperatures range from 59 to 83°F.

  Drone Use / Aerial Photography

  If you own a drone, you are welcome to bring it along. Please practice launching and catching your drone in your hands before the tour, as this is essential for flying a drone from the boats.

  General Info

  We will be exploring a wide range of Vietnam! We are asking everyone to pack light since we will be moving around a fair amount on this tour. There are a few one-night stays that were unavoidable, so we suggest bringing a small “one-nighter” bag. We did not include Halong Bay in the itinerary since this area is very touristy and a vacation destination, but this can easily be added for your enjoyment by our tour operator.

  We picked this time of year for a variety of reasons. The main reason was that we did not want to go during Vietnam’s “winter” season.

  Have a question?

  Have a question about this tour? We're happy to answer any queries you may have.

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• Testimonials from Natural Exposures' Explorers

  • "If you ever want to travel to another country and you want to go first class, travel with Natural Exposures. They are number one in showing their guests the best time ever in the classiest way. I would recommend Natural Exposures Tours to everyone. If you want to go in style, go with NE!"

    Michelle Duggan, Massachusetts

  • "I just wanted to again thank you for a wonderful week of photography and relaxation away from the office. It was a really a good group."

    Sue Wolfe, Texas

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