Vietnam: Ancient Traditions & New Perspectives 2026
Cultural & Landscape Photography Tour
With Licensed Drone Shoots Throughout
16 days: May 27 - June 11 2026
Additional photography on this page by Diep Van / Khan Phan - thanks guys!
Welcome To A Whole New Vietnam!
" We understand drones can be intimidating, but you'll be amazed by how easy and how much fun a flying camera can be!
And we're there to help every step of the way "
Trai Anfield, Tour Leader
This is more than just another photography tour: it’s a full-on creative and cultural adventure!
From soaring aerial views to intimate cultural encounters, immerse yourself in Vietnam’s beauty with expert guidance and a little luxury along the way.​
Whether you’re a seasoned photographer, or picking up a camera or drone for the first time, this journey is guaranteed to ignite your creativity and expand your artistic vision.
We understand drones can be intimidating, but we think you'll be amazed by how easy and how much fun a flying camera can be! And there's always expert support on hand from Trai and Diep, so no previous experience with aerial or ground-based photography is necessary.
Drone photography really does open up new worlds, and on this 16 day immersive photography experience we explore deeply traditional Vietnam from a truly contemporary perspective: we'll take time to discover and understand ancient ways of life on the ground, and then shine new light on them from above, using aerial camera technology to reveal fresh perspectives on varied urban and rural landscapes and the people who live and work in them.
It is an incredible combination, and a chance to build a truly unique photographic portfolio.
Over 16 incredible days we will travel the length of Vietnam's eastern coastline by road, rail, air, boat and on foot to explore the landscape, meet local people and celebrate the skills, crafts and knowledge they use to enable them to live off the land and sea.
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Our expert Vietnamese guide and accomplished photographer Diep Van will help us to appreciate the culture, beliefs and cuisine of the region, and experience genuine Vietnamese hospitality in a carefully curated selection of owner-run boutique hotels and quality restaurants in each location.
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Trai will be on hand to offer inspiration and advice on both ground based and aerial photography options: we will have two drones with us, fully licensed, for the group to use whenever we wish.
Please note: if you would like to bring your own drone this is possible too, and we are happy to help with necessary permits.
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Level of fitness required: Easy - short walks in urban and rural areas
Vietnam Route Overview
Your Full 'Vietnam: Ancient Traditions & New Perspectives' Tour Itinerary
Day 1
May 27
Arrival - Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) - Evening Shoot - Welcome Dinner
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Our guide and driver will meet us at the airport in Tan Son Nhat, and transfer us to our first night hotel where we will check-in, relax and refresh for a few hours.
After a short briefing, we will head out for a warm-up shoot of the cityscape at dusk, which may include extended shutter speeds shots for motion blur of action taking place along the Saigon River...bring a tripod!
Afterwards, an introduction to fantastic Vietnamese cuisine at a welcome dinner in a recommended restaurant.
Meal: Dinner
Day 2
May 28
Exploring Ho Chi Minh – Mekong Delta
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We’ll use street and aerial photos to capture the city’s vivid waking as the sun rises. After breakfast and a quick recharge at the hotel, we’ll explore Chinatown’s bustling streets to capture a taste of daily life.
Escaping the smog and bustle, Long An in the Mekong Delta, is our next destination. A leisurely boat ride through Tan Lap Floating Village’s lush wetlands will be our introduction to the Mekong Delta swamp’s beauty. before we navigate the atmospheric Melaleuca tree maze by small boat and on foot.
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Tan Lap's bird island is right at the heart of the Melaleuca forest , with an aquatic habitat rich in fish and trees which encourages a variety of species of birds to gather here. Late afternoon we will watch for hundreds of white storks and black Little Cormorants flying back to roost after a day of fishing.
Overnight in Moc Hoa.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3
May 29
Embracing Southern Charm: Moc Hoa to Phan Rang
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This morning we will experience “water lily” harvesting and photograph one of the most beautiful southern signature images from the ground and from the air: local women growers harvesting the colourful blooms while wearing the iconic conical hats & “khăn rằn” (a black-white checked scarf) and “Áo Bà Ba” (traditional southern Vietnamese attire).
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Returning to Ho Chi Minh, we’ll fly on to Nha Trang.
From there, we head south to Phan Rang, where our photographic adventure will continue. We’ll watch shepherds lead their sheep home in Phan Rang’s stunning scenery. As the sun sets and the sky turns golden, we’ll capture pastoral images from the air as well as the ground to end our fascinating day’s photography.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4
May 30
Delving into Cham Culture: Phan Rang to Doc Let
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Up before the sun, our day begins with a journey into the heart of Cham villages, where centuries of culture unfold against the backdrop of pristine sand dunes. With cameras in hand, we’ll document the rich tapestry of Cham life, from vibrant traditions to the quiet rhythms of daily existence.
After a morning shoot, we will be back at the hotel for breakfast and some rest.
Later, close to Phan Rang, another captivating scene awaits us: the mending of a sea of green fishing nets.
Our journey continues to Doc Let, where we’ll rest and prepare for tomorrow’s adventures in the early morning.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5
May 31
Unveiling Hidden Gems: Doc Let to Phu Yen
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Next stop on this hugely varied photography tour is Hon Khoi’s stunning Salt Fields. Found in the seaside setting of Khanh Hoa, the salt ponds, reflecting pools and hard working labourers make for poignant images.
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We’ll watch the building of coracle boats and the mending of yellow fishing nets at Phu Yen, then seek out the magnificent reflections and silhouettes of O Loan Lagoon at dusk. A varied and stimulating day of photography!
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 6
June 1
Exploring Phu Yen’s Natural Wonders
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Very much like Ireland's Giants Causeway, Ganh Da Dia Cliff is a geologist and photographers dream, with it's basalt columns glistening in the early morning light. From above, our drones will also show Hon Yen’s fishermen living in harmony with the water.
In the afternoon, we observe coracle boat construction and sedge-mat weaving. We’ll capture the skilled artisans who interpret these traditions in Phu Yen’s cultural context.
Our final location of the day, Vietnam’s longest bamboo bridge will allow us to catch the sunset’s beautiful reflected colours in the quiet rivers below before going to our hotel.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 7
June 2
From Phu Yen to Tam Ky via Quy Nhon
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Our day begins in the serene glow of Ganh Den Lighthouse, where dawn light paints lovely colours. Drones will capture Hon Yen fishermen and their nets dancing rhythmically, telling stories on the sea’s canvas, where at low tide bright yellow seaweed makes for a stunning overhead image.
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After breakfast and a little time relaxing at the hotel, we’ll leave for Quy Nhon.
Here we’ll board the luxurious Reunification Train for Tam Ky. The Vietage train is world-renowned for the beauty of the spectacular route and also for the level of service offered - a real treat for any traveller!
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Upon arrival, our driver will transport us to our hotel
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Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 8
June 3
Immersing in Local Life: From Tam Ky to Hoi An
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We spend our morning slowly taking in Hoi An Old Town’s alluring atmosphere. We’ll roam freely around its winding streets and historic buildings, enjoying the spirit of this ageless town and capturing its beauty on camera.
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Then a mid-afternoon trip to Hoian’s blue fishing nets weaving hamlet will immerse us in local life.
We can talk to the locals in a tranquil setting about their customs and daily lives. We’ll photograph their lives and work to immerse ourselves in Vietnamese culture.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 9 - June 4
Exploring Old Hoi An: From Fishing villages to Sedge-grass fields
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Our photographic adventure through historic Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, begins with a lively fishing town before sunrise. In the dawn sunlight, we’ll photograph nets full of silvery fish against stilt platforms. On our way back, we’ll stroll through Hoi An’s bustling morning market, a kaleidoscope of colors and smells that capture its rich culture.
We’ll photograph two remarkable old ladies in the afternoon, their faces telling decades of memories. Their portraits will symbolize Hoi An’s resilience.
Later in the day, we’ll visit a southern Hoi An town where time stops among the sedge-grass fields. The peaceful rhythm of local activities allows our lenses to capture the spirit of everyday life in this timeless region of Vietnam.
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Meals: Breakfast
Day 10
June 5
From Hoi An to Hue: Tranquility and Majesty
We begin our day at bustling Tam Tien seafood market, capturing the market’s essence as fishermen bring in their catch and sell it amid the sunrise hustle.
Then relax and rest at the hotel during the lunchtime heat.
After lunch we leave Hoi An and drive down the picturesque coast to Hue, a city rich in history and beauty. Here, we will explore the magnificent grounds of the Emperor’s tomb, with traditional ‘Ao Dai’ models, whose classic elegance accentuates the opulent surroundings.
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Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 11
June 6
Exploring the Majesty of Hue Imperial city
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After an early breakfast in our accommodation, we explore Hue Imperial City’s history. In the morning’s light, we’ll photograph an “Ao dai” model among the ancient walls and buildings.
In the afternoon, we’ll photograph the fishermen casting their nets in an ancient dance on the peaceful Perfume River. As the sun sets, lanterns will be released on the river, creating a stunning shot at sunset and twilight.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 12
June 7
From Hue to Hanoi: Exploring Handicrafts and Old Town
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Following check-out in Hue, we take a short flight to Hanoi. Our first stop from here is Quang Phu Cau, a village famed for its production of colorful incense sticks. Once more a traditional craft will look spectacular when paired with our aerial photography.
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On heading into the city we’ll check into our downtown hotel , and then head out to explore city life among the charming and fascinating Old Town lanes and atmospheric alleyways.
At sunset, we’ll set up at a high vantage, possibly near the famed Long Bien Bridge.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 13
June 8
Hanoi – Ha Long Bay
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When morning comes, we’ll leave Hanoi and drive to a nearby town to learn the traditional art of soy sauce production. Craftspeople with conical hats oversee the laborious process amidst rows of large earthen jars.
We then continue heading to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with spectacularly distinctive limestone islets and emerald waters, once used as the backdrop for a James Bond film!
We’ll board our deluxe junk 'Nostalgia' to cruise through this surreal environment, revelling in the highest level of amenities and service onboard as we quietly capture Ha Long’s tranquil landscapes.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
photos below © Nostalgia
Day 14
June 9
Ha Long Bay
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Full day exploring Halong Bay aboard luxury junk 'Nostalgia'. We may simply relax and photograph the charms of this idyllic seascape while sipping cocktails and relaxing in the heated jacuzzi on deck. Or if we feel more energetic we can join in tai chi, yoga, explore by kayak and visit some the local landmarks such as enormous cave networks and floating villages. Choose how you'd like to round off your incredible Vietnamese photographic adventure!
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 15
June 10
Ha Long Bay – Hanoi
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For those who wake up early aboard 'Nostalgia' the sunrise awaits, lending the limestone cliffs a softly golden hue.
Following a relaxing brunch on deck, we will depart Ha Long Bay for Hanoi.
After checking into our hotel and reflecting on our epic photographic journey through Vietnam, we will gather in the evening for a farewell dinner.
Meal: Breakfast, Brunch, Dinner
​​​​​Day 16
June 11
Hanoi - Departure
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A last chance to take in Hanoi’s vibrant appeal one more time. It's hard to leave, but when it's time we’ll provide a a transfer to the airport ready for your flight home ...or your next adventure. Wherever you go you'll have a head full of wonderful memories and a hard drive filled with sensational images!
Meal: Breakfast
BOOKING
Vietnam: Ancient Traditions & New Perspectives Tour Dates & Rates
Scheduled Departure: 27 May - 11 June 2026 (plus travel days)
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Cost £6,360pp based on sharing twin accommodation
Single supplement £760pp
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Includes:
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Hotel accommodation with daily breakfast (4* boutique hotels / best available in remote areas)
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Exclusive booking of Nostalgia luxury cruise ship in Ha Long Bay - no other guests aboard
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Rail ticket for The Vietage luxury train journey from Quy Nhon to Tam Ky
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Domestic flights x 2: Ho Chi Min - Nha Trang & Hue - Hanoi (Economy Class)
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Land transportation by private air-conditioned vehicles
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All admission fees at attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
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Boat trips as mentioned in the itinerary
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Meals as mentioned in the itinerary (B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner)
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Mineral water en route
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Local English speaking photography guide/fixer
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Ground and aerial photography and post production tuition with Trai Anfield
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Government Tax
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Fees for local models & village donation
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Permit for drone use
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Excludes:
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International flights to/from Vietnam
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Vietnam Visa pre-approval letter
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Vietnam Visa stamp fee on arrival at airport ($25pp)
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Any other meals not mentioned above.
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Drinks other than mineral water en route
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Personal expenses (including laundry, local SIM & data package, drinks, snacks, souvenirs)
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Early/late check in/out service at hotels (surcharge if requested)
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All other services which are not mentioned
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Tipping for local guide, driver, hotel porter etc
Recommended Combinations
This tour lends itself perfectly to combining with
Or a short beach break on one of Vietnam's fabulous islands
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We're happy to advise and help book an extension before or after your Vietnam tour
Your Team in Vietnam
TRAI ANFIELD
​Trai has been flying drones since they first emerged as a photography option, and was one of the first female pilots to qualify for a UK commercial permit.
She personally designs and leads all her photographic safaris across five continents, and her returning clients know that each destination she meticulously chooses will more than meet their expectations as photographers and film makers, as well as travellers.
Trai's photography regularly features in international publications, and among her successful solo exhibitions 'On The Road' focussed on candid black & white portraits captured while on the move across Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.
DIEP VAN
With an emphasis on the colorful tapestry of Southeast Asia, Diep is a professional photographer known for his striking images of everyday street scenes, travel, landscapes, and cultures. In addition to being a talented photographer, Diep is our photo tour’s master of logistics, making sure everything runs smoothly and encouraging learning and photographic exploration in some of Vietnam’s most stunning locations.