HOI AN Hidden Gems in Rural Villages & River Islands PRIVATE TOUR
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 598 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is HOI AN Hidden Gems in Rural Villages & River Islands PRIVATE TOUR worth booking?
HOI AN Hidden Gems in Rural Villages & River Islands PRIVATE TOUR is a 4-hour experience in Hoi An, Vietnam, from $15 per person. It scores 96 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Peak Performance”, based on a 5/5 rating across 598 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing. It sits in the Outty 90+ Club, the top tier of everything we rank.
- Outty Ranking
- 96 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (598)
- Duration
- 4 hours
- From
- $15 per person
An exciting PRIVATE TOUR that’s fun for all ages! Explore the rural villages around Hoi An on a unique route that takes you off the beaten path to meet locals & experience their daily lives. Start your adventure on Cam Kim Island, where you’ll make rice papers & snacks to enjoy. Then, visit another local family to learn the art of incense stick making & try it yourself. After that, head to a peaceful village to weave vibrant bed mats from river reeds. Drive through beautiful rural villages & later stop at a charming coffee shop for refreshments. Then, cross over the stunning views bridge & enjoy a relaxing basket boat ride under the Water Coconut Forest. Zigzag through the fish & shrimp farms and lush rice paddies filled with buffalo and cows, we'll finally explore Tra Que Vegetable Village, surrounded by fragrant herbs. The tour lasts 4 hours without a meal, or 5 hours with a tasty meal. Choose your vehicle: US military jeep/ USSR army jeep/ Modern car.
What you get
About this experience
An exciting PRIVATE TOUR that’s fun for all ages! Explore the rural villages around Hoi An on a unique route that takes you off the beaten path to meet locals & experience their daily lives. Start your adventure on Cam Kim Island, where you’ll make rice papers & snacks to enjoy. Then, visit another local family to learn the art of incense stick making & try it yourself. After that, head to a peaceful village to weave vibrant bed mats from river reeds. Drive through beautiful rural villages & later stop at a charming coffee shop for refreshments. Then, cross over the stunning views bridge & enjoy a relaxing basket boat ride under the Water Coconut Forest. Zigzag through the fish & shrimp farms and lush rice paddies filled with buffalo and cows, we'll finally explore Tra Que Vegetable Village, surrounded by fragrant herbs. The tour lasts 4 hours without a meal, or 5 hours with a tasty meal. Choose your vehicle: US military jeep/ USSR army jeep/ Modern car.
What's included
Included
- Coffee stop to refresh. Bottled water during the tour. Clean washrooms
- English-speaking local tour guide & Local driver(s)
- All taxes, tickets, entrance fees, donations at local homes (Guarantee no hidden fees)
- INCLUDED or EXCLUDED Vietnamese meal (Different prices & durations)
- US military jeep/ USSR army jeep/ Modern car-van
- Pickup and drop off any hotels in and around Hoi An area, 8 km = 5 miles from Hoi An old town
Not included
- Other drinks, personal expenses. Tipping is optional but appreciated
- Private car transfer ONE-WAY from South Hoian or Danang to HOIAN TOWN: 15-20-30 USD/ 4-7-16 seater
What you'll see and do
If you're staying in Hoi An, we'll pick you up directly from your hotel. For guests at hotels in Da Nang, Hoiana Resort and Golf, or VinPearl Resort and Golf South Hoi An, please meet us at our office to start the tour. Contact us via call or WhatsApp, and we'll assist you in arranging a private car transfer for a small surcharge.
Pass by without stopping
Cam Kim Island
Making rice papers and local snacks: Embark on a fun journey from Hoi An, crossing the scenic Thu Bon River to the peaceful Cam Kim Island. Here, you'll meet a delightful 65-year-old couple, masters of traditional rice-making. Roll up your sleeves and help grind rice, then use the rice milk to craft your own rice paper and tasty local snacks. Once the work’s done, enjoy the fruits of your labor, munching on the treats you just made! As you relax, dive into the fascinating daily lives of the islanders and learn about their rich culture and traditions. It’s a hands-on experience with a heartwarming personal touch you won’t forget!
20 minutes here · Admission included
Cam Kim Island
Incense-making family: Step into the heart of Kim Bong village and meet a warm, welcoming family who’s been mastering the craft of incense-making for generations. Get ready for a unique experience as you sit down with them, surrounded by the sweet aromas of herbs and spices, and try your hand at rolling incense sticks using their traditional tools. As you work, the family will share fascinating stories about their trade, their village, and the importance of incense in local culture. By the end, you'll walk away with your own handmade incense and a heart full of Kim Bong's rich history and charm!
15 minutes here · Admission included
Tra Nhieu Fishing Village
Handwoven Traditions: The Mat-Weaving Family Story. Step into the cozy, traditional home of a lovely 70-year-old couple in a peaceful village, where vibrant straw mat-making is a way of life. Sit down with them and get hands-on, weaving your own colorful mat—just like the ones locals sleep on! As you weave, you'll hear stories of their craft and catch a glimpse of daily life in this quiet, charming village. It's a beautiful way to connect with local traditions, learn a timeless craft, and take home your own handmade souvenir from this heartwarming experience!
15 minutes here · Admission included
Duy Vinh
Stop at a nice coffee house to freshen up and learn about Vietnamese coffee culture. Enjoy a tasty coffee with nice views. Use the washroom before we continue our journey.
20 minutes here
Duy Hai
Drive over high bridges to take in panoramic views of fish farms, shrimp farms, rice paddies, and big fishing nets at Thu Bon river mouth.
20 minutes here
Cam Thanh
Visit Cam Thanh fishing village in the water coconut forest, hop in the round basket boat, a local fisherman will take you on a relaxing boat trip under the shade of coconut trees. You will use a fishing rod to catch some river crabs for fun.
25 minutes here
Tra Que Vegetable Village
A quick visit to Tra Que vegetable village to see the villagers growing different vegetables in their gardens. It's a great chance to smell amazing herbs, take pictures and learn about traditional farming methods.
15 minutes here · Admission included
Hoi An
Time to enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch or dinner in a riverside restaurant before heading back to your hotel. NOTE: There is a tour option without lunch/dinner as well. Please check different prices and durations when booking.
60 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Hoi An
Local Buddy Tours Office 134B Nguyễn Khoa Street, Hoi An, Danang City.
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 5 minutes before departure.
Ends at
Local Buddy Tours Office 134B Nguyễn Khoa Street, Hoi An, Danang City.
Options you can book
US Army Jeep tour - No meal
PRIVATE TOUR: Only your group participates - Travel at flexible pace. Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes: From hotel pickup to drop off. Pickup & drop off in Hoi An: Travel in countryside villages and river islands around Hoi An. US Army jeep from the 1970S: With tarp roof and open windows for great views. Basket boat trip & Coffee stop: Bottled water during the tour. All stops have clean washrooms. Pickup included
Vietnam Army jeep - No meal
PRIVATE TOUR - ONLY YOUR GROUP: Travel at a flexible pace in a Soviet-Vietnam military jeep (similar to a US Army jeep) Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes: From pickup to drop off at your hotel in Hoi An (8 km/ 5 miles radius from Hoi An old town). 50km/ 30 miles drive: Scenic roads in rural villages & river islands around Hoi An to see local lifestyle & local crafts. 1990s Vietnam military jeep : Soviet military vehicle (similar to a US Army jeep) with tarp roof & open windows for nice views. Basket boat trip & Coffee stop: Local snacks. Bottled water during the tour. All stops have clean washrooms. Pickup included
Modern car/van tour - No meal
PRIVATE TOUR: Only your group participates - Travel at flexible pace. Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes: From hotel pickup to drop off. Pickup & drop off in Hoi An: Travel in countryside villages and river islands around Hoi An. Car or van + Driver + Guide: Modern and spacious vehicle with air conditioning, offers great comfort during the tour. Basket boat trip & Coffee stop: Bottled water during the tour. All stops have clean washrooms. Pickup included
US Army Jeep tour + Meal
PRIVATE TOUR: Only your group participates - Travel at flexible pace. Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes: From hotel pickup to drop off. Vietnamese lunch or dinner: Five tasty dishes in a nice restaurant before hotel drop off. Pickup & drop off in Hoi An: Travel in countryside villages and river islands around Hoi An. US Army jeep from the 1970S: With tarp roof and open windows for great views. Basket boat trip & Coffee stop: Bottled water during the tour. All stops have clean washrooms. Pickup included
Vietnam Army jeep + Meal
PRIVATE TOUR - ONLY YOUR GROUP: Travel at a flexible pace in a Soviet-Vietnam military jeep (similar to a US Army jeep) Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes: From pickup to drop off at your hotel in Hoi An (8km/ 5 miles radius around Hoi An old town). Vietnamese lunch or dinner: Five tasty dishes in a nice restaurant before hotel drop off. 50km/ 30 miles drive: Scenic roads in rural villages & river islands around Hoi An to see local lifestyle & traditional crafts. 1990s Vietnam military jeep: Soviet military vehicle (similar to a US Army jeep) with tarp roof & open windows for nice views. Basket boat trip & Coffee stop: Plus local snacks & bottled water during the tour. All stops have clean washrooms. Pickup included
Modern car/van tour + Meal
PRIVATE TOUR: Only your group participates - Travel at flexible pace. Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes: From hotel pickup to drop off. Vietnamese lunch or dinner: Five dishes in a nice restaurant before hotel drop off. Pickup & drop off in Hoi An: Travel in countryside villages and river islands around Hoi An. Car or van + Driver + Guide: Modern and spacious vehicle with air conditioning, offers great comfort during the tour. Basket boat trip & Coffee stop: Bottled water during the tour. All stops have clean washrooms. Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Local Buddy Tours - Danang City
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 594 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
10 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
5 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Good for families
2 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Traveler reviews
594 verified traveler reviews for HOI AN Hidden Gems in Rural Villages & River Islands PRIVATE TOUR. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Half day jeep tour with Kha
Our guide Kha was amazing. We got to see rice noodle making, mother of pearl inlay, wood carving, mat making and incense making. It was incredible to see the traditional craftsmanship and techniques that continue into today. Absolutely worth the time and money. Driving around in the jeep was the perfect way to get around. Highly recommended.
Response from the operator: Dear Donald family, Thank you so much for your lovely review! We're glad you enjoyed discovering the traditional crafts and exploring the countryside by Jeep with Kha. It's great to see these local skills still being passed down today. Thanks for recommending us, and we hope to see you again in Hoi An! Best regards, Thanh – Local Buddy Tours WhatsApp: +84 973 943 196 Email: localbuddytours@gmail.com
via Tripadvisor
Great tour, awesome guide, totally recommended
This tour was one and maybe top of many highlights from our Vietnam holiday. Sonny our guide was great, very friendly, excellent English, and overall a very fun person. He shared stories about local villages and Vietnam life that were exactly what we were hoping for, and we will remember forever. He also tracked down local herbs from local farmers to help our daughter who had a cold . Highly recommend ++, exceeded our high expectations.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review and recommendation! We are very happy to hear that our Hoi An Hidden Gems tour was one of the highlights of your Vietnam holiday. Sonny will be very happy to know that you enjoyed his stories, local village experiences, and his company during the day. We are also glad he could help find some local herbs for your daughter. We hope she is feeling much better now! Thank you again for choosing Local Buddy Tours. It was a pleasure having your family with us, and we hope to see you again in Vietnam someday. Kind regards, Thanh Local Buddy Tours WhatsApp: +84 973 943 196 Email: localbuddytours@gmail.com
via Tripadvisor
Great opportunity to get out into the countryside and experience some real life in the villages.
Kha (our guide) and Long (our driver) were both fantastic. Knowledgeable, personable and fun. Would highly recommend this tour with them.
via Tripadvisor
Very good tour for an inside view of local culture
Amazing tour with a true local vibe, T was our guide and I couldn’t recommend her more! She was fun, very insightful and made our tour memorable and very worth it!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your lovely review! I’m really happy to hear you enjoyed the local vibe and had such a good time with Trang. I’ll make sure to share your kind words with her. So glad she could make your day memorable! Hope to see you again in Hoi An. Thanh WhatsApp: +84 973943196 Email: localbuddytours@gmail.com
via Viator
Away from the hustle and bustle
The tour was an excellent escape from the city and into the country. Kha was an excellent guide! Friendly and great with the kids too!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 4 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $15 to $95
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 209
- Verdict
- Peak Performance
Who runs this experience
Operated by Local Buddy Tours - Danang City, who run 22 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 63.6 and 2 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Local Buddy Tours - Danang City runsWhy this scores 96
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
HOI AN Hidden Gems in Rural Villages & River Islands PRIVATE TOUR: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Hoi An.
How much does HOI AN Hidden Gems in Rural Villages & River Islands PRIVATE TOUR cost?
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Prices start at $15 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Hoi An usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does HOI AN Hidden Gems in Rural Villages & River Islands PRIVATE TOUR take?
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Plan for about 4 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Hoi An is not rushed.
Is HOI AN Hidden Gems in Rural Villages & River Islands PRIVATE TOUR worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 96 out of 100, which we label "Peak Performance". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 598 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most highly reviewed in Hoi An, and how flexible the cancellation terms are. Scoring 90 or above puts it in the Outty 90+ Club, the top tier of everything we rank.
Can I cancel or reschedule HOI AN Hidden Gems in Rural Villages & River Islands PRIVATE TOUR?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is HOI AN Hidden Gems in Rural Villages & River Islands PRIVATE TOUR suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 4-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book HOI AN Hidden Gems in Rural Villages & River Islands PRIVATE TOUR?
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Around 209 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Hoi An can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Hoi An and add a light layer if any part of the 4-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does HOI AN Hidden Gems in Rural Villages & River Islands PRIVATE TOUR start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Hoi An within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Hoi An?
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On Outty we rank every Hoi An experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Hoi An Ancient Town Walking Tour with a Local, Cooking Class Hoi An:Local Market, Basket Boat, Fishing & Cooking, Hoi An Cooking Class(Local Market, Basket Boat,Fishing &Cooking). The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Hoi An?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Hoi An?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in HOI AN Hidden Gems in Rural Villages & River Islands PRIVATE TOUR?
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Included: Coffee stop to refresh. Bottled water during the tour. Clean washrooms; English-speaking local tour guide & Local driver(s); All taxes, tickets, entrance fees, donations at local homes (Guarantee no hidden fees); INCLUDED or EXCLUDED Vietnamese meal (Different prices & durations); and US military jeep/ USSR army jeep/ Modern car-van. Not included: Other drinks, personal expenses. Tipping is optional but appreciated; and Private car transfer ONE-WAY from South Hoian or Danang to HOIAN TOWN: 15-20-30 USD/ 4-7-1. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does HOI AN Hidden Gems in Rural Villages & River Islands PRIVATE TOUR include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 205 listed pickup locations in and around Hoi An. Be ready about 5 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is HOI AN Hidden Gems in Rural Villages & River Islands PRIVATE TOUR offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for HOI AN Hidden Gems in Rural Villages & River Islands PRIVATE TOUR?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is HOI AN Hidden Gems in Rural Villages & River Islands PRIVATE TOUR wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to HOI AN Hidden Gems in Rural Villages & River Islands PRIVATE TOUR if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about HOI AN Hidden Gems in Rural Villages & River Islands PRIVATE TOUR?
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Across 598 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for HOI AN Hidden Gems in Rural Villages & River Islands PRIVATE TOUR?
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There are 6 options to choose from, including US Army Jeep tour - No meal, Vietnam Army jeep - No meal, Modern car/van tour - No meal, US Army Jeep tour + Meal. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for HOI AN Hidden Gems in Rural Villages & River Islands PRIVATE TOUR.
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