Traveling from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the peaceful coastal retreat of Ho Tram offers a welcome break into Vietnam’s natural beauty. This 2-day, 1-night tour combines sensory delights like chocolate-making, the serenity of tropical gardens, and relaxing spa treatments—all wrapped in a setting that feels worlds away from city life.

We especially appreciate the hands-on cacao farm visit, the tranquil seaside resort, and the chance to unwind with a massage overlooking the ocean. That said, a potential consideration might be the 2-hour transfer from HCMC—so it’s best for those who enjoy scenic drives and don’t mind a bit of travel time. This tour is perfect for travelers craving a gentle, nature-focused escape that blends activity and relaxation.

Key Points

Authentic Chocolate Experience: Visit a local cacao farm and craft your own decorated chocolates.
Relaxation & Wellness: Enjoy a full-body massage and afternoon tea with ocean views, perfect for unwinding.
Scenic Coastal Setting: Stay at a seaside resort amid lush tropical gardens, with free time to explore.
Cultural & Natural Highlights: Experience Vietnam’s coastal rainforest, white sandy beaches, and local cuisine.
Value & Comfort: The $280 price includes transportation, guided tours, meals, spa treatments, and a unique chocolate workshop.
Ideal for Relaxation Seekers: Perfect for those looking to disconnect and reconnect with nature in comfort.

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Overview of the Experience

This tour offers a balanced blend of nature, indulgence, and cultural discovery. Starting early from HCMC, you’ll be whisked away on a scenic two-hour drive to the coastal province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau. From lush cacao farms to seaside luxury, every moment is designed to make you feel pampered while reconnecting with Vietnam’s natural charm.

The experience is suited for travelers who love a mix of hands-on activities and leisurely downtime. Whether you’re a foodie, a spa enthusiast, or simply craving a peaceful retreat, this trip offers a fulfilling escape into Vietnam’s tropical landscape.

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Detailed Itinerary and Highlights

Day 1: From City Hustle to Coastal Calm

Morning Departure:
Your day begins around 8:00 AM with pickup from your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City. The guide, who speaks fluent English, will accompany you on the roughly 2-hour scenic drive. Expect to pass through busy streets and then open up to views of Vietnam’s countryside and coastline.

Visit to BINON CACAO PARK:
Around 10:00 AM, you’ll arrive at this cacao farm and chocolate factory, founded in 2019 by Japanese entrepreneur Ayako Endo. The farm is home to about 900 cacao trees, and the guide will walk you through the entire chocolate-making process. What makes this experience special is the chance to decorate your own chocolates—an ideal souvenir and fun activity. According to reviews, some guests appreciated the “hands-on” aspect, mentioning how it added a personal touch to their trip.

You can indulge in freshly made chocolates and drinks at the on-site café, which offers a cozy break with a sweet ending. The shop also sells souvenirs, making it a great place to pick up some local chocolate treats.

Lunch at GECKO Restaurant:
Post-farm, the group heads to the seaside resort for lunch around 12:30 PM. The restaurant specializes in rustic Vietnamese home-style cuisine, with dishes like stir-fried water spinach, stewed fish in pineapple, and chicken sour soup. Many reviewers found the menu satisfying and the setting relaxed, with some noting the passion fruit sponge cake as a delightful finish. Including a drink of your choice, the meal offers good value considering the quality and location.

Afternoon Relaxation:
Post-lunch, at 2:00 PM, you’ll enjoy a 60-minute full-body massage at the resort’s Aurora Spa. Guests often highlight the quality of the massage, noting it as a perfect way to unwind after the morning’s activities. You can choose from seven massage types, allowing for personalized relaxation.

Tea & Evening:
At 3:30 PM, relax in the hotel lounge with afternoon tea, savoring sweets and drinks while soaking in the views. Later, around 7:30 PM, a buffet dinner at the same restaurant offers a variety of tropical dishes, all served in a scenic seaside setting. The buffet is considered generous, with many guests praising the range of options and the peaceful ambiance.

Day 2: Leisure & Nature in Ho Tram

Morning Flexibility:
Start your day with a buffet breakfast at the restaurant, and then enjoy free time until checkout. You might choose to swim in one of the hotel pools, stroll along the private beach, or explore the nearby pier by bike. Guests have described the gardens as lush and the beach as quiet—perfect for unwinding.

What’s Included & Not:
This flexible morning allows you to tailor your experience. The natural surroundings lend themselves well to relaxing walks or just lounging poolside. The hotel’s setting emphasizes eco-green aesthetics and tranquil vibes.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

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Chocolate Farm Visit

One of the unique features is the visit to BINON CACAO PARK. Unlike typical tours, you get to participate in the chocolate-making process, decorating your own candies. Several reviewers mention the farm’s lush environment and the chance to learn about cacao farming, which adds an educational element to the trip. The tour’s founder, Ayako Endo, has created a farm that combines tourism with a genuine understanding of chocolate production—a lovely touch for those interested in culinary stories or wanting a memorable souvenir.

Seaside Luxury & Authenticity

The resort’s setting is undeniably scenic—tropical gardens surround the property, and the private beach provides a peaceful backdrop. Many guests noted that the hotel’s ocean view rooms and the infinity pools are highlights, making it easy to unwind. The atmosphere feels genuine, not overly commercial, which is often a concern with coastal resorts.

Wellness & Relaxation Focus

The full-body massage and afternoon tea are thoughtfully scheduled, giving guests moments of calm amidst their busy exploration. The spa treatments are highly valued—reviewers often mention that the massages melt away stress, leaving them refreshed for the rest of their trip.

Cultural & Scenic Diversity

The trip balances active engagement—like chocolate decorating and optional beach strolls—with ample downtime. Visitors appreciate the chance to experience Vietnam’s natural scenery without feeling rushed, especially given the peaceful setting of Ho Tram.

Practical Aspects & Considerations

Transportation & Duration

The 2-hour drive from HCMC is comfortable and scenic, though it is a consideration for travelers who might prefer shorter transfers. The tour includes private transport, ensuring a smooth and personalized experience.

Cost-Value Analysis

At $280 per person, the package covers transportation, a guided chocolate farm visit, lunch, spa treatment, hotel stay, and meals. This is a fair value considering the inclusions, especially given the hotel’s serene setting and unique activities.

Group Size & Guides

The tour operates in a private group format, led by an English-speaking guide. This setup offers personalized attention and flexibility, which many travelers prefer over larger tours.

Booking & Cancellation

Reservations can be made with the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Payment is flexible—book now and pay later—ideal for planning with uncertainty.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Nature & Chocolate Getaway is a thoughtfully curated escape for anyone looking to slow down and reconnect with nature in Vietnam’s coastal environment. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy culinary experiences, spa treatments, and scenic relaxation, all in an authentic setting.

The tour’s highlights—like the cacao farm visit and seaside resort—offer genuine engagement and comfort, making it a well-rounded package for a short but meaningful retreat. While the transfer from HCMC adds some travel time, the journey is part of the experience, offering glimpses into Vietnam’s countryside.

For travelers seeking a blend of learning, leisure, and natural beauty, this tour provides excellent value and a peaceful break from city life. It’s best for those wanting a gentle, curated escape that balances activity with downtime, all wrapped in a scenic, eco-friendly environment.

FAQ

What is included in the tour package?
The package covers transportation from HCMC, a guided cacao farm visit, chocolate-making activity, lunch, a full-body massage, afternoon tea, hotel stay at a seaside resort, and meals.

How long is the drive from Ho Chi Minh City?
The drive takes approximately 2 hours, offering scenic views of Vietnam’s countryside and coast.

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour is private and relaxed, it’s most suited for adults or families with older children interested in chocolate, nature, and relaxation.

What type of accommodation is provided?
Guests stay at the Ho Tram Beach Boutique Resort & Spa, known for its lush gardens, ocean views, and tranquil environment.

Can I customize the activities?
The itinerary is pre-structured, but the free morning on Day 2 allows guests to choose how to spend their time—whether swimming, cycling, or simply relaxing.

Is the tour good value for the price?
Yes, considering the inclusions like the hotel stay, meals, spa treatment, activities, and guided tours, $280 offers solid value for this curated experience.

What should I pack for this trip?
Bring swimwear, comfortable clothing for the farm tour, sun protection, and casual attire for leisure activities and dining.

Are there any physical activity requirements?
The activities are generally relaxed; a walk through the cacao farm and optional beach strolls are easy for most travelers.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Vietnam’s natural beauty paired with indulgent moments—ideal for those craving a gentle, scenic break.