Farming & Cooking Class in Hoi An – Small Group Tour

If you’re dreaming of combining culinary discovery with a taste of local life, this Farming & Cooking Class in Hoi An offers just that. With a 5-hour journey through bustling markets, lush rice fields, and traditional farms, you’ll learn to cook authentic Vietnamese dishes while gaining insight into the region’s farming traditions. The small-group format ensures personalized attention from guides and chefs, making it ideal for those who want an intimate, hands-on experience.

What stands out most is the personalized instruction you’ll receive, along with the chance to participate in farming activities like hoeing soil and watering crops. Plus, the delicious meal you prepare using fresh ingredients is a high point—complemented by a relaxing foot massage. However, keep in mind that the experience involves cycling, some physical activity, and a fair bit of time outdoors, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with these elements. Overall, it’s a superb option for food lovers, culture seekers, and anyone eager to see Vietnam beyond the tourist trail.

Key Points

• Authentic experience combining market visits, farming, and cooking
• Small group size (max 15) for a more personalized journey
• Includes a foot massage and farm activities, adding relaxation and insight
• Delicious, homemade Vietnamese dishes with recipes you can later recreate
• Ideal for adventurous eaters and those wanting a deeper cultural connection
• Price point of $38 per person offers excellent value for a full-day activity

What to Expect from This Cooking & Farming Tour

This tour is packed with engaging activities that go far beyond just cooking. You’ll start your day with pickup from your hotel, a convenience that sets the tone for a seamless experience. The first stop is a vibrant local market, where your guide, often Min or Jessica, will introduce you to Vietnamese produce, herbs, and spices. Many reviewers mention how much they appreciated the guide’s knowledge—describing Min as “adorable,” with a warm smile that makes everyone feel at home. During this part, you’ll learn to identify ingredients and get tips on selecting the freshest produce.

After the market, the journey continues by bike or private transportation through rice paddies and peaceful villages. The cycling through lush landscapes is a highlight for many, offering stunning views of green fields, traditional houses, and rural life. Uyen, another guide, is praised for her enthusiasm and storytelling, which add depth to the experience.

The next stop is Tra Que Organic Farm, a serene patch of greenery where you’ll join local farmers in hands-on activities like hoeing soil, watering crops, and even collecting seaweed. Several reviews mention how interactive and fun farming activities are—participants describe planting spinach, transplanting herbs, and being taught traditional farming methods. One reviewer shared that she learned a lot about Vietnamese life and culture, and another loved planting basil and herbs in the garden.

Following the farming, you’ll enjoy a traditional foot massage with medicinal herbs—an unexpected yet highly praised perk that offers relaxation after some physical activity. Many reviewers found this to be a wonderful way to unwind and escape the heat or fatigue.

Then comes the highlight: the culinary part of the tour. Under the guidance of a local chef, you’ll prepare a series of dishes, such as green papaya salad, Banh Xeo (crispy Vietnamese pancake), spring rolls, and fish in clay pot. The recipes are demonstrated step-by-step, with individual attention ensuring everyone gets involved—whether chopping ingredients, flipping pancakes, or stirring pots. Reviewers often emphasize how much fun and educational this part is, with many saying they learned new techniques they could later use at home.

After cooking, it’s time to sit down and enjoy the fruits of your labor—a meal made by your own hands. Several participants mention how delicious and satisfying their dishes are, often expressing a desire to recreate the recipes back home.

Finally, the tour winds down with a short rest before returning to your hotel, feeling full on food and experience alike. Optional vegetarian or special diets can usually be accommodated, making it accessible for different preferences.

The Detailed Itinerary

Market Visit: Expect a lively, colorful market where your guide will introduce you to Vietnamese ingredients. You might find yourself checking out fresh herbs, tropical fruits, and aromatic spices—perfect for understanding the foundation of Vietnamese flavor profiles. Many reviews highlight how guides explain the different vegetables and herbs, and some mention buying ingredients for the cooking class.

Cycling Through Rice Fields and Villages: This part is more than just transit—it’s a scenic journey. Expect peaceful bike rides past lush paddies, traditional farmhouses, and local villagers. The cycling is gentle and suitable for most, but it’s worth noting that the scenery is rural and somewhat rustic.

Farm Experience at Tra Que: Here, you’ll don a conical hat and get your hands dirty (literally). Activities include hoeing soil, transplanting herbs, watering, and seaweed collecting. Reviewers commend the authenticity—participating in real farming with local farmers. The farm tour also includes explanations about traditional farming practices, offering insights into rural Vietnamese life.

Relaxing Foot Massage: After some physical activity, many find this massage with medicinal herbs a delightful way to relax. It’s generally included in the tour price and is highly praised for its soothing effects, often described as “wonderful” and “a health treatment.”

Cooking Class & Meal: Under the guidance of a chef, you’ll prepare multiple dishes. The focus is on hands-on participation—no watching from the sidelines here. The recipes are traditional, and the techniques simple enough for beginners but valuable for seasoned cooks. Reviewers mention how much they enjoy flipping pancakes, making spring rolls, and learning new cooking tricks.

Post-Meal Rest & Return: After feasting, you’ll have some time to relax before heading back to your hotel. The tour concludes with a feeling of accomplishment, both culinary and cultural.

The Value of This Tour

At $38 per person, this experience offers incredible value. It’s a full, immersive package: market tour, farm activities, cooking, and relaxation—all in a well-organized setting. The inclusion of private transportation and personalized instruction makes it stand out among other cooking classes. Many reviews mention how the guides, especially Min, Jessica, and Uyen, make the experience memorable with their warmth, humor, and knowledge.

Compared to standalone cooking classes, this tour’s extra activities—farming, market visits, and massages—add depth that you won’t find elsewhere. The ability to learn recipes that you can recreate at home makes this not just a sightseeing activity but a practical skill-building session.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for foodies and culture seekers looking for an authentic taste of Vietnam. It suits travelers who enjoy hands-on activities and don’t mind getting a little dirty or active. If you’re someone who values personalized attention and local insight, the small-group format guarantees a more intimate experience.

It’s also perfect if you’re after a relaxing yet educational day—the combination of farming, cooking, and massage provides a well-rounded, memorable outing. Vegetarians or those with special diets can usually request accommodations, adding to its flexibility.

However, if you prefer more guided, passive experiences, or aren’t comfortable cycling or participating in farm work, you might find some parts less appealing. The tour’s physical activities and outdoor setting mean it’s best suited for active, curious travelers.

The Sum Up

The Farming & Cooking Class in Hoi An offers a unique blend of culinary learning, rural immersion, and relaxation. The guides—like Min, Jessica, and Uyen—bring warmth and authenticity, making every step feel personal and genuine. The hands-on cooking, farm activities, and scenic cycling create a well-rounded experience that truly connects you to Vietnamese life.

This tour is best for those who want more than just a cooking lesson—it’s perfect for curious travelers eager to see the countryside, learn traditional farming techniques, and enjoy fresh, homemade Vietnamese dishes in a beautiful setting. The value for money is undeniable, given the comprehensive itinerary and inclusion of extras like massages.

In essence, it’s a journey that feeds both the stomach and the soul—offering a taste of local life that you’ll remember long after you leave Hoi An.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides private transportation from your hotel, ensuring a smooth start and end to your experience.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, making it a full morning or afternoon activity.

Can I request vegetarian or special diets?
Yes, vegetarian and special diets can be accommodated upon request.

What are the main dishes I will learn to cook?
You’ll prepare dishes like green papaya salad, Vietnamese pancake (Banh Xeo), spring rolls, and fish in a clay pot.

What is the farm experience like?
You’ll participate in farming activities such as hoeing soil, transplanting herbs, watering, and seaweed collection with local farmers—an authentic look into traditional agricultural practices.

Is this suitable for children or less active travelers?
The tour involves cycling, some physical farm work, and outdoor steps, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with active participation.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is through Viator, and confirmation is received immediately. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight guides like Min and Jessica for their warmth, humor, and expertise, adding a personal touch to the experience.

What is the price for this experience?
The tour costs $38 per person, offering excellent value for such a comprehensive cultural and culinary experience.

Is the experience suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. With a maximum of 15 participants, solo travelers can enjoy a cozy, personalized atmosphere.