Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 99 travelers

7-Day Volunteering Itinerary in Vietnam

Friday, September 1: Arrival in Hanoi

Morning: Arrive in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam. Start your day by exploring the historic Old Quarter, with its bustling streets and traditional architecture. Visit Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple.
Afternoon: Volunteer at a local organization that supports underprivileged children. Spend time teaching English or participating in community projects.
Evening: Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dinner at a local restaurant and experience the vibrant nightlife of Hanoi.

  • Old Quarter: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Hoan Kiem Lake: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Ngoc Son Temple: Entrance fee: 20,000 VND, 1 hour
Saturday, September 2: Halong Bay

Morning: Take a scenic drive to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters.
Afternoon: Volunteer with a local environmental organization involved in marine conservation efforts. Help clean the beach or assist in educational programs.
Evening: Enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise in Halong Bay and savor a seafood dinner on board.

  • Halong Bay: Entrance fee: 200,000 VND, 6-8 hours
Sunday, September 3: Hanoi - Hoi An

Morning: Return to Hanoi and catch a flight to Hoi An, a charming ancient town known for its well-preserved architecture.
Afternoon: Volunteer at a local orphanage or school, engaging with children and supporting their educational and recreational activities.
Evening: Explore the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An's Old Town and enjoy a delicious meal by the riverside.

  • Flight from Hanoi to Hoi An: Estimated cost: $100-$150, 2-3 hours
  • Hoi An Old Town: Entrance fee: 120,000 VND, 2-3 hours
Monday, September 4: Hoi An

Morning: Join a volunteer program focused on sustainable farming and learn about organic agriculture practices. Help with planting, harvesting, or maintaining the farm.
Afternoon: Visit a local tailor and have custom-made clothing created from traditional Vietnamese fabrics.
Evening: Attend a cooking class and learn to prepare authentic Vietnamese dishes.

  • Farming Volunteer Program: Free, 4-6 hours
  • Tailor visit: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Tuesday, September 5: Ho Chi Minh City

Morning: Fly from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), the largest city in Vietnam.
Afternoon: Volunteer at a local organization supporting marginalized communities. Engage in activities such as teaching, community development, or environmental conservation.
Evening: Explore the vibrant nightlife of Ho Chi Minh City, visiting bustling markets and enjoying street food.

  • Flight from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City: Estimated cost: $100-$150, 2-3 hours
  • Volunteer organization: Free, 4-6 hours
Wednesday, September 6: Mekong Delta

Morning: Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta, known as the "rice bowl" of Vietnam, with its lush green fields and winding waterways.
Afternoon: Volunteer with a local NGO working on sustainable development projects in the Mekong Delta region. Assist in community programs, environmental initiatives, or educational activities.
Evening: Enjoy a boat ride along the Mekong River and savor a traditional Vietnamese dinner.

  • Mekong Delta Day Trip: Estimated cost: $30-$50, 8-10 hours
Thursday, September 7: Departure from Ho Chi Minh City

Morning: Visit the War Remnants Museum to gain insight into Vietnam's history and the Vietnam War.
Afternoon: Explore the bustling Ben Thanh Market, where you can find various local products and souvenirs.
Evening: Depart from Ho Chi Minh City, bidding farewell to Vietnam and taking beautiful memories back home.

  • War Remnants Museum: Entrance fee: 40,000 VND, 2-3 hours
  • Ben Thanh Market: Free, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off-the-beaten-path attractions and places loved by locals, consider visiting the peaceful countryside around Hoi An, where you can cycle through rice paddies and explore traditional villages. Another recommendation is to volunteer at small, grassroots organizations in rural areas, where you can directly contribute to community development and experience the true local way of life.

To check hotel and flight prices in Vietnam, click here.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version