Hoi An
1/2 day
AH-HA01
5/10
$42 USD
DESCRIBE

If you are looking for an active yet peaceful way to explore Hoi An beyond the Ancient Town, this kayaking journey is an excellent choice. Paddling along the Thu Bon River offers a completely different perspective on Hoi An, taking you through quiet waterways, riverside communities, and traditional village landscapes that many visitors never get to see. The experience combines light adventure with cultural discovery, allowing travelers to connect with local life, visit craft areas, and enjoy the calm beauty of the countryside. Hoi An is widely promoted as a river-based destination, and official tourism sources specifically highlight the town’s waterways, nearby eco-villages, and traditional craft villages as key parts of the visitor experience.

Highlights

  • Discover Hoi An from a different perspective on the Thu Bon River
  • Paddle through peaceful waterways and riverside landscapes
  • Visit traditional village areas and experience local daily life
  • Explore the Kim Bong craft area and other communities along the river
  • Enjoy a gentle soft-adventure experience suitable for active travelers
SUMMARY
  • Departure Point: Hoi An

  • Duration: 1/2 day

  • Destination: Hoi An

  • Activities: Culture Exploration

  • Min : 2 people

  • Best time: Year-round

  • Max : 15 people

  • Difficulty level: 5/10

ITINERARY
Hoi An - Cam Thanh - Duy Vinh - Hoi An

08:00 The tour guide will pick you up at your hotel and take you to the starting point for kayaking in Cam Thanh. After the guide provides instructions on basic kayaking skills and shares the safety regulations, we will begin kayaking toward the ancient town of Hoi An. You will enjoy a unique view of Hoi An from the river, getting a deeper sense of its once-thriving famous trading port. We will stop for coffee at a local riverside cafe.

10:00 Kayaking towards Cam Kim Island. Here, you will walk to visit the villages of Kim Bong and Duy Vinh, where you can explore a few families engaging in traditional crafts such as vegetable farming and mat weaving. You will taste some local dishes before continuing to kayak to the nipa palm forest.

13:00 Coming back to the starting point. After freshening up and changing clothes, you will head back to the hotel. The end of the tour.

* Total kayaking distance: 13km

 

INCLUSION/EXCLUSION

Inclusion:

  • Round-trip bus 
  • Kayak, life jacket & gear
  • 1 free drink in coffee shop
  • Tour guide
  • Drinking water
  • Fee for entrance tickets
  • Travel insurance 

Exclusion:

  • Other kinds of beverage unlist in the tour program
  • Personal expenses 

 

THE EQUIPMENT NECESSARY

Equipment provided by VAH:

  • Kayak and equipments
  • Life jacket
  • First-aid kit

     What to bring: 

  • Water shoes/ sandals
  • Backpack (10L–20L)
  • clothing: long-sleeved swimwear (rash guard) or T-shirt and shorts
  • Sun protection: hat/cap, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen
  • Personal medications
  • Electronics (Mobile phone, camera, power bank...), appropriate waterproof cases
  • ID or passport

    Also recommended: 

  • Hand sanitizer
  • Spare clothing
  • Waterproof phone pouch
 
IMPORTANT NOTES

1. Kayaking Notes

  • Distance: The trekking route is approximately 7 to 8 km.
  • Terrain: Stretching approximately 8 km along the Hoai River and Thu Bon River, this journey offers a unique water-level perspective of lush nipa palm forests, rural villages, and the historic charm of Hoi An Ancient Town. Along the way, you will explore the nipa palm forest, observe local fishermen casting their nets, and enjoy the serene beauty of either sunrise or sunset over the river landscape.
  • Suitability: This route is ideal for most fitness levels, including beginners. Families are welcome, children from 6 to 10 years old are eligible to participate.

 

2. Responsible Travel & Environmental Protection

  • Leave No Trace: We strictly follow and promote the Leave No Trace principles in all our outdoor programs. We encourage our guests and partners to apply these ethics to minimize our impact on the natural environment. [See details about Leave No Trace here]
  • Reduce Plastic Waste: To limit single-use plastics, we encourage everyone to bring a reusable Reusable bottle (minimum 1L capacity). Refill stations will be provided throughout the trip.
  • Local Regulations: We kindly ask all guests to comply with the specific environmental regulations and instructions provided by our guides at the destination.

3. Health & Safety

  • Medical Considerations: Your safety is our priority. If you have a history of cardiovascular conditions or chronic joint issues (knees, ankles, shoulders, etc.), please consult with your doctor before booking this trip.
  • Transparency: Please inform our tour guide of any existing health conditions or allergies at the start of the journey so we can support you best.