Hoi An Countryside Back Road Tour

Discover the Charm of Rural Vietnam with the Hoi An Countryside Back Road Tour

Our review takes a close look at the Hoi An Countryside Back Road Tour—a 4-hour journey that whisks you away from the bustling streets of Hoi An into the quiet, scenic countryside. This tour offers a rare chance to see Vietnam beyond its famous lantern-lit streets, diving into traditional villages and meeting local artisans. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, you’ll experience hands-on craft activities, scenic views, and a taste of rural Vietnamese life that many travelers might miss on their own.

What we really love about this experience is how it balances authenticity with fun. Traveling on scooters through back roads allows you to see the countryside up close, meeting villagers and participating in craft-making. Plus, the tour includes some excellent value for the price—just under $40 per person, it packs a lot of memorable moments into just a few hours.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is a private tour, so it’s tailored to your group, which makes for a more personalized experience. However, if you’re not comfortable on scooters or prefer a more relaxed pace, it might not be the best fit. Those looking for an authentic encounter with Vietnamese culture, especially involving craftwork and scenic rural views, will find this tour ideal.

Who will love this? It’s perfect for curious travelers who want an off-the-beaten-path look at local life, families, or groups wanting a flexible, engaging experience outside the busy city center.

Key Points

• Authentic Village Visits: Experience real village life and meet local artisans making pottery, carpentry, and straw weaving.
• Hands-On Activities: Participate in pottery making and straw weaving, giving you a memorable, immersive experience.
• Scenic Scooter Ride: Travel on back roads, avoiding tourist-heavy areas and enjoying rural vistas and peaceful village scenes.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Luc are praised for their friendly, careful, and informative approach—making the trip engaging and safe.
• Great Value for Money: For just under $40, you get multiple craft demonstrations, local insights, bottled water, and tea/coffee.
• Private Tour Flexibility: Only your group participates, offering a more personalized and intimate experience.

An Authentic Look into Vietnam’s Traditional Crafts

The tour begins with a visit to Thanh Ha Pottery Village, a place where you’ll step inside the daily routines of expert potters. Here, you’ll witness the production of beautiful ceramics—vases, kettles, and pots—while also getting the chance to try your hand at making your own piece. Reviewers have appreciated how the guide, Luc, explained how pottery styles have evolved, making the history accessible and engaging. One traveler noted, “Enjoyed 6 hours with Luc. Saw so many off-the-track sites we’d never have seen on our own,” highlighting how this stop reveals a slice of local life often hidden from travelers.

Next, you’ll head to Kim Bong Carpentry Village, renowned for traditional boatbuilding and handcrafted furniture. This area still uses age-old techniques to construct fishing vessels, and the woodworking workshops showcase sculptures and furniture shaped by skilled artisans. The chance to try making something with your own hands adds a layer of fun and authenticity—reviewers describe it as a “wild ride through the countryside,” emphasizing how lively and engaging this part of the tour is.

The third stop is Cam Kim Straw Weaving Village. Here, you can observe and participate in straw weaving, producing sleeping mats and yoga mats. This craft has a long tradition, and visitors often enjoy the chance to weave alongside locals, learning how styles and techniques have changed over time. A reviewer mentioned, “Visited homes & families that prRead more,” illustrating the warmth and genuine connection you can experience.

The Scenic Scooter Experience

A standout feature of this tour is the use of scooters to get between villages. Guided by Luc, you’ll cruise on quiet back roads, offering views of rice paddies, rural homes, and lush landscapes. Several reviews praise Luc’s careful driving and friendly demeanor—”He assured me he would be slow and careful,” one traveler shared, highlighting how the guide’s attentiveness makes even nervous riders feel safe.

Traveling on scooters allows you to escape the crowded tourist spots and see parts of Hoi An’s countryside you might not otherwise visit. It also means the journey itself is part of the adventure, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take photos or chat with locals. For those concerned about safety, know that the guides are experienced and attentive, making this a safe option for most travelers.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What to Expect

At around $39 per person, this tour is quite good value when you consider the inclusion of admission tickets to the villages, local craft experiences, bottled water, and tea/coffee. The price reflects the personalized nature of the experience—private, flexible, and accommodating most travelers.

The tour starts at 7:00 am—an early start that pays off with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. It lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity. Since it’s private, your group can set the pace and choose to linger longer at any stop if you wish.

Pickup is offered, removing any hassle of transportation, and you receive a mobile ticket, streamlining your check-in process. Most travelers find the tour accessible, though those with mobility issues on scooters may want to confirm with the provider.

Authenticity and Personal Touches

The reviews highlight the genuine connection with local families, which adds depth to the experience. Visitors often appreciate how guides like Luc go beyond the surface, explaining the significance of crafts and the history behind each village. One reviewer summarized it as “seeing rural Vietnam and having an absolute blast on the scooter,” indicating both the fun and meaningful nature of this trip.

Considerations and Tips

While this tour is highly praised, it’s worth noting that the journey involves riding scooters, which may not be suitable for everyone. If you’re nervous about scooters or prefer a slower, less mobile activity, you might consider a different type of tour. Also, since the tour is quite active—participating in craft activities and riding on back roads—it’s best suited for travelers in decent health.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This Hoi An Countryside Back Road Tour offers a wonderful mix of culture, scenic beauty, and fun hands-on activities. It provides a rare glimpse into Vietnam’s traditional crafts, with knowledgeable guides making the experience both educational and enjoyable. The price point makes it accessible, especially considering the personalized nature of the tour and the inclusion of craft experiences.

If you’re seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure that combines scenic riding with meaningful cultural interactions, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy active, engaging experiences and are open to exploring rural life in Vietnam.

While it might not be ideal for those uncomfortable with scooters or seeking a very relaxed, sit-back experience, it’s perfect for curious, adventurous travelers eager to see another side of Hoi An.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but since it involves riding scooters, it’s best for those comfortable with this mode of transport. Elderly or very young children might need to consider their comfort level with scooters and activity.

Does the tour include transportation from my hotel?
Yes, pickup is offered, so you don’t need to worry about arranging transport to the meeting point.

How long is the tour and what does it include?
The tour lasts around 4 hours, starting at 7:00 am. It includes visits to three villages, craft activities, admission tickets, bottled water, and tea or coffee.

Can I customize or extend the tour?
Since it’s a private experience, you may be able to request additional time or specific stops, but confirm with the provider beforehand.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Highlights include pottery making in Thanh Ha, traditional boatbuilding and woodworking in Kim Bong, and straw weaving on Cam Kim Island, all experienced with local families and artisans.

Do I need prior experience or skills for the craft activities?
No prior skills are necessary. Guides like Luc ensure you’re comfortable participating, and the activities are designed to be fun for everyone.

This tour offers a genuine, fun-filled look into Vietnam’s rural life, perfect for those eager to go beyond the usual tourist spots and experience local craftsmanship first-hand.