Hoi An Countryside Experience with 3 Villages & Basket Boat Ride

Taking a trip out into the Vietnamese countryside around Hoi An offers a refreshing break from the bustling town streets. This Hoi An Countryside Experience packs in visits to three distinct villages, hands-on activities, and a fun basket boat ride—all in about five to six hours. We’ll unpack what makes this tour stand out, along with some practical insights to help you decide if it’s right for you.

One feature we particularly love is how it offers a genuine peek into local life, with ample opportunities to participate in farming, fishing, pottery, and lantern-making. It’s a well-rounded way to connect with the culture, rather than just observe it from afar. That said, the itinerary is quite full, so if you’re looking for a slow, relaxed day, this might feel a little hurried.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure, hands-on experiences, and cultural insight—especially those traveling with families or friends who enjoy engaging activities. If you prefer a more laid-back experience or have specific dietary needs (meals aren’t included), you’ll want to plan accordingly. Overall, it’s a fantastic way to see the countryside through local eyes, and at just $99 per person, it offers excellent value.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Interactions: Engage directly with villagers, learning their crafts and farming techniques.
• Variety of Experiences: From farming and fishing to pottery and lantern-making, the tour offers diverse activities.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides, like Chang and Andy, add depth and stories that enrich the day.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for children and adults alike, with plenty of photo opportunities and hands-on fun.
• Good Value for Money: With all entrance fees, activities, and transport included, it’s a cost-effective way to explore.
• Time Management: The tour runs about 5-6 hours, so be prepared for a day packed with activities.

A Close Look at the Tour Itinerary

Pick-up and Initial Transfer

The experience begins with a convenient hotel pickup in Da Nang or Hoi An, usually around 8:00 a.m. or 1:30 p.m., depending on your preference. The private or group transport—often an army Jeep, private car, or van—ensures a comfortable start. This upfront organization sets a relaxed tone and allows you to focus on the day ahead.

Tra Que Vegetable Village: Farming with a Local Twist

The first stop is Tra Que Village, renowned for its lush vegetable gardens. Here, you meet local families and learn how they cultivate their produce, largely using traditional methods like fertilizing with seaweed and watering by hand. You get your hands dirty working the soil and planting, which is surprisingly fun and educational. Several reviews mention the warmth of the hosts—“they share stories about their lives in the village,” adding a personal touch to the experience.

Expect to spend about an hour and a half here. It’s a chance to see what sustainable, small-scale farming looks like and to understand the significance of these vegetables for the local economy. Plus, you’ll enjoy a refreshing local drink as the family shares stories, making it feel more like visiting friends than a tourist activity.

Bay Mau Coconut Forest: Basket Boat Adventure & Fishing

Next up is a scenic ride to the Bay Mau Coconut Forest, where you’ll hop onto a bamboo basket boat. This is a highlight for many: testing your seafarer skills by fishing for crabs or trying to mimic the locals’ technique of throwing big fishing nets. The guides, who are adept at weaving leaves into fish, grasshoppers, and even watches from coconut leaves, are eager to share their skills—and give you souvenirs.

One reviewer pointed out that the basket boat ride “test the seafarer in you,” and it’s true—this activity is both a fun challenge and a photo-worthy moment. The boat ride lasts about an hour and is a fantastic way to enjoy the tranquil waters and lush greenery of the coconut forest.

Thanh Ha Pottery Village: Crafting with Clay

Following the fishing fun, your journey continues to Thanh Ha Village, famous for its pottery traditions. Here, you’ll see how everyday pottery is made, and if you’re lucky, get your hands on some clay to craft your own mini vessel. The guide takes you on a walk through the traditional workshops, stopping at a typical family’s home to learn the pottery-making process. This hands-on element appeals especially to families or anyone curious about local crafts.

This stop lasts around 30 minutes and offers a tangible connection to Vietnam’s artisanal heritage. Many travelers find it a satisfying break from the more active parts of the tour.

Lantern Making at a Local Home

The final hands-on activity is a lantern-making class—a quintessential Hoi An craft. You’ll learn how to make your own lantern, which you can take home as a keepsake. The process is simple but charming, with colorful paper and bamboo frames. Several reviews mention how fun and engaging this part is, especially for kids.

It’s a relaxing way to end the day, with the guide sharing stories about the tradition of lanterns in Hoi An. Expect to spend about 30 minutes here, leaving you with a beautiful handmade souvenir.

Tour Wrap-up and Return

After the crafting, your guide escorts you back to your hotel, usually around mid to late afternoon. The journey home allows you to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Farming & Fishing: The opportunity to work in a vegetable garden, fish in the coconut forest, and experience local farming methods provides a genuine look at rural life. Unlike superficial sightseeing, these activities foster a real connection with the community.

Knowledgeable Guides: The reviews consistently highlight guides like Chang and Andy for their friendliness, storytelling, and safety awareness. They make the experience engaging and informative, sharing insider details that you wouldn’t find in a guidebook.

Cultural Craft Experiences: The pottery and lantern-making classes are simple but meaningful—giving you a craft to take home and a deeper appreciation for local artistry.

Transportation & Logistics: The private or group transport is hassle-free, with a clear pick-up process. The inclusion of all entrance fees and activity costs makes this a transparent, no-surprise package.

Value for Money: For $99, you gain access to several villages, activities, and transportation, which adds up to a comprehensive day out far richer than a typical sightseeing tour.

Considerations & Tips

Pace of the Day: The tour covers multiple stops in about five to six hours. If you prefer a more leisurely pace or want extra time at each site, consider starting the tour earlier or discussing options with your guide.

Meals & Drinks: Food is not included, but bottled water is provided. If you’re hungry or have dietary restrictions, plan to bring snacks or a meal for after the tour.

Child-Friendly: The activities are suited for all ages, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The hands-on nature and storytelling make it engaging for kids, as one reviewer noted.

Weather Preparedness: Expect to be outdoors most of the time, so wear comfortable clothes, sunscreen, and sunglasses.

Final Thoughts

This Hoi An Countryside Experience offers a well-balanced day of culture, hands-on activities, and scenic adventures. The combination of farming, fishing, pottery, and lantern-making ensures you’ll come away with a deeper understanding and appreciation of local life. The guides go beyond just logistics—they bring stories and local knowledge that enrich the experience.

For travelers seeking an authentic, engaging, and value-packed day out of the busy town, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially perfect if you enjoy participating in activities, connecting with local communities, and capturing memorable photos along the way.

Who should book this? If you’re curious about rural Vietnam, want to learn traditional crafts, or enjoy active experiences, this tour will suit you perfectly. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a meaningful cultural journey will find it fulfills those desires with friendly guides and a diverse itinerary.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from hotels in Da Nang or Hoi An, making logistics simple and convenient.

What is included in the price?
All entrance tickets for the villages, the basket boat ride, buffalo ride, vegetable farming activities, lantern-making class, bottled water, and transportation are included.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 5 to 6 hours, from pickup to return, depending on the group and pace.

Can children participate?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and children are welcomed when accompanied by an adult. The activities are family-friendly.

Are meals provided?
No, meals are not included. Travelers should plan to eat before or after the tour, or bring snacks.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities, sunscreen, and hat are recommended. Be prepared to get a little muddy or wet during farming and fishing.

Is the tour private or group?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, providing a personalized experience.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring your camera, some cash for souvenirs or extra drinks, and your enthusiasm for a fun day exploring the countryside.

In essence, this tour offers a wonderful glimpse into rural life around Hoi An with expert guides, authentic experiences, and excellent value. It’s a memorable way to see Vietnam beyond the tourist hotspots, perfect for those who seek hands-on cultural encounters and meaningful travel moments.