CAM THANH ECOTOUR – LANTERN – MY SON HOLYLAND FULL DAY TOUR

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day exploring Vietnam’s charming countryside, historic sites, and local crafts, this tour from Hoi An offers just that. It combines hands-on activities like lantern making, traditional fishing, and bamboo boat paddling with cultural highlights such as visiting the UNESCO-listed My Son Sanctuary.

What we love about this experience are its local authenticity, the variety of activities, and the chance to learn about Vietnam’s history and craft traditions firsthand. The guides are praised for their knowledge, making the experience both educational and fun. The boat rides through coconut forests and the chance to make your own lantern add memorable visual and tactile elements that make this tour special.

A potential consideration is the day’s pace—it’s quite full, so if you prefer a more relaxed schedule or less travel time, some parts may feel rushed. Also, while the price of $63 per person is reasonable considering the inclusions, keep in mind that it’s a long day with lots of moving parts.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of culture, history, and active experiences, especially those curious about Vietnamese craftsmanship and rural life. If you’re eager to see a different side of Vietnam beyond Hoi An’s town center, this day trip offers fresh sights and stories.

Key Points

• Authentic cultural activities include lantern making and traditional fishing.
• Beautiful scenery on boat rides through coconut forests and along the Thu Bon River.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding of local history and crafts.
• Full-day experience that covers several attractions and hands-on activities.
• Value for money with multiple experiences included for $63.
• Suitable for active travelers who enjoy learning and outdoor adventures.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup & Market Visit

The journey begins with a pickup from your hotel in Hoi An, usually around 9:00 or 9:15 AM. From there, you’ll head to a local market, which is a highlight for anyone interested in Vietnamese ingredients and cuisine. Our experiences show that guides take time explaining the spices, herbs, and fresh produce, giving you a taste of local life. One guest noted, “We prepared some Vietnamese dishes, including pho bo, at our request,” highlighting the flexible and engaging nature of the cooking element.

Discovering Cam Thanh Coconut Village & Lantern Crafting

Next, you’ll visit the charming Cam Thanh Coconut Village, a peaceful place where traditional craftsmanship is alive. You’ll see skillful artisans creating colorful lanterns—an activity that’s both picturesque and hands-on. Guided by experts, you can try making your own lantern, which makes a wonderful souvenir or gift. A guest shared, “We made ourselves a lantern as a gift to our family,” adding a personal touch to the day.

The village setting is tranquil, with lush coconut trees and traditional stilt houses. The guides are praised for their storytelling, helping visitors understand the significance of the lanterns and local customs.

Traditional Fishing & Basket Boat Adventures

After the crafts, it’s time to try your hand at traditional Vietnamese fishing techniques. Local experts teach you to paddle a bamboo basket boat, a unique and iconic Vietnamese craft. Expect to join in a basket boat race and watch a lively performance of basket boat skills.

The fishing activities are quite genuine—participants can try catching crabs, using nets, and even beetle catching, which are common traditional techniques. “We enjoyed catching crabs and dropping nets,” reported a reviewer, emphasizing the hands-on nature of the experience. The guides are knowledgeable, explaining the different methods and their importance to local livelihoods.

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Cooking Show & Lunch

Post-fishing, you’ll return to a fisherman’s house to participate in a cooking demonstration led by a talented chef. The focus is on local dishes, with options to adapt for dietary restrictions such as vegan or gluten-free needs—be sure to communicate this in advance. The lunch features seven local dishes paired with mineral water, offering a satisfying taste of regional cuisine.

Exploring My Son Sanctuary

After lunch, the tour continues with a drive to My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Arriving around 2:30 PM, you’ll spend roughly two hours exploring the ancient Cham ruins. An English-speaking guide walks you through the site’s history and architecture, with some traditional performances adding to the cultural flavor.

Reviews mention that guides help bring the site to life, sharing insights that go beyond the basics. The site’s scenic landscape makes for fantastic photos and a deeper appreciation of Vietnam’s diverse cultural heritage.

Sunset Boat Trip & Return to Hoi An

At around 4:30 PM, you’ll hop onto a boat for a relaxing cruise back along the Thu Bon River. This part of the tour offers stunning views of Hoi An’s riverside scenes, with the gentle breeze and sunset creating picture-perfect moments. Along the way, you’ll see local activities along the riverbank, adding to the authentic atmosphere.

By 6:00 PM, the tour wraps up with a transfer back to your hotel in Hoi An. It’s a long, fulfilling day that covers a lot of ground—both literally and culturally.

What’s Included & What to Keep in Mind

The price of $63 covers hotel transfers, entrance fees to key sites, all activities including basket boat rowing, and meals—lunch and a Brunch with local Bánh Mì. A knowledgeable guide makes all the difference, providing context and answering questions throughout.

While the tour is comprehensive, it’s worth noting that it involves a fair amount of movement and activity, so comfortable shoes and a change of clothes are advisable. Bringing a camera and hat will help you capture memories and stay comfortable during the outdoor activities.

Notable Experiences from Reviews

One guest appreciated the authenticity, noting, “First we went to the market and learned a lot about the spices and plants. We prepared some Vietnamese dishes, including pho bo at our request!” The flexibility and personal engagement seem to be key strengths.

Another reviewer mentioned that the basket boat ride was enjoyable, though perhaps not essential, indicating that some travelers may appreciate the variety more than the specific activities.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day adventure is best suited for travelers who enjoy active, hands-on experiences and want a broader understanding of Vietnamese rural life, crafts, and history. It’s perfect for those who like combining cultural education with outdoor fun and are comfortable with a busy schedule.

The tour’s inclusive nature and flexible meal options also make it accessible for various dietary needs. It’s an excellent choice for curious travelers eager to see the countryside and learn about local traditions beyond the typical tourist spots.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced blend of culture, active participation, and scenic beauty. The combination of lantern making, fishing, boat rides, and a visit to My Son provides a well-rounded picture of Vietnam’s heritage, craftsmanship, and rural life.

The knowledgeable guides and the variety of activities mean you’ll leave with more than just photos—you’ll have personal stories, new skills, and authentic souvenirs. While it’s a full day, the pacing is well-managed, and the inclusion of meals and transport makes it a valuable option for those wanting to maximize their time in the region.

If you’re after a fun, educational, and visually stunning day with plenty of authentic experiences, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s ideal for active, culturally curious travelers who appreciate the chance to connect directly with local people and traditions.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes a two-way transfer from your hotel in Hoi An.

Can I participate if I have dietary restrictions? Absolutely. The menu can be adapted for vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, or allergy considerations—just inform the organizers in advance.

What should I bring on the tour? Comfortable shoes, a change of clothes, a camera, and a hat are recommended for outdoor activities and protection from the sun.

How long is the My Son Sanctuary visit? You will have about two hours to explore the site, walk around the landscape, and enjoy traditional performances.

Is the tour suitable for children? While it’s primarily designed for active participation, most children who enjoy outdoor activities and cultural sites will find it suitable. Check with the provider for age restrictions.

What is the price and what does it include? The tour costs $63 per person, including hotel transfers, entrance fees, basket boat activities, lunch, brunch, and an English-speaking guide.

How flexible is the booking? You can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This full-day tour from Hoi An stands out for its genuine cultural activities, scenic boat rides, and engaging storytelling. It’s an enriching experience for those eager to see and do more than just look at Vietnam’s sights—an authentic taste of local life that leaves lasting memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: