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Vietnam in Bloom: Botanical Tour with Summer Rayne Oakes
Dates
Dec 4–11, 2027
Group Size
8–22 Travelers
Duration
8 days, 7 nights
Activity Level
Exploration
About This Trip
Meet Your Host
View Full ProfileSummer Rayne Oakes
I’m an environmental scientist and entomologist by training and now spend most of my days as an environmental communicator. My motivation in life is to connect people more closely with nature. I now produce two YT channels, including "Flock Finger Lakes" and "Plant One On Me". summerrayne.net, homesteadbrooklyn.com, flockfingerlakes.com for info.
Trip Activities
Bao Dai's Summer Palace
Historic Train
Cau Dat Tea Plantation
Da Lat Street Food Tour
The Cloud Forest Cafe
Valley of Love
Da Lat Flower Garden
Tuyen Lam Lake
Scientific Research Institute of Highland Agriculture
Golden Valley
Glass Garden Succulent Farm
Cao Nguyen Hoa
Lat Village
Lang Biang
Bidoup, Nui Ba National Park
Thien Thai Waterfall
Optional Activities*
Da Lat Scent Atelier
*Add-ons available at checkout for an additional fee.
Included in Your Trip
Double occupancy in 4-star hotels
Local Guide throughout trip
All city transfers
7 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches and 3 Dinners
Not Included
Flights (except as noted)
Visas & Travel Insurance
Food & Alcohol (except as noted)
Tips & Gratuity
Itinerary
*All durations are approximate
Welcome to Vietnam!
Arrival Airport Transfer
TrovaTrip will provide 3 transfers from Lien Khuong International Airport between 8:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. Exact transfer times within this window will be determined closer to your arrival based on provided traveler flight information. Travelers arriving outside of the requested flight guidelines will need to make their own arrangements to meet the group at the hotel. Please fly into the Lien Khuong International Airport (DLI).
dinner
You’ll take a 15 minute private transfer to the welcome dinner. In the evening, enjoy a farm-to-table welcome dinner in a tranquil pine forest setting, featuring fresh, seasonal produce and a set menu of 4–5 individually plated Western-Vietnamese fusion dishes. Dinner includes a glass of house wine, local beer, soft drink, or water. Additional food and beverage at your own expense.
Grand Mercure Dalat
(or similar)
Overnight in Da Lat.
Highlights of Da Lat
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The hotel may offer a combination of Vietnamese and intercontinental breakfast. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.
Bao Dai's Summer Palace
After breakfast, enjoy a short ten minute private transfer to Palace III, the final and most luxurious retreat built for Vietnam’s last monarch, Emperor Bao Dai. Step inside the impeccably preserved 25-room mansion, where 1930s Art Deco design blends seamlessly with French colonial elegance. Explore the emperor’s private study and the royal family’s living quarters, still adorned with original furnishings, before stepping onto the sweeping second-floor balcony for views over the manicured pine gardens and misty plateau beyond.
Historic Train
From Bao Dai’s Summer Palace, take a fifteen minute private transfer to the iconic French-built Da Lat Railway Station, renowned for its distinctive Indochinese architecture and retro wooden panels. Board a heritage carriage and settle in as the vintage locomotive winds its way along the historic mountain railway toward Trai Mat. Outside your window, watch a living postcard unfold, with sloping hillside greenhouses, terraced vegetable gardens, and tranquil pine forests lining the route. Arrive at the charming, rustic station in Trai Mat, where the journey offers a glimpse into a quieter side of the Da Lat countryside.
Cau Dat Tea Plantation
After the scenic train ride, a private 30-minute transfer will take you to the historic Cau Dat Tea Plantation, established in 1927, where endless waves of emerald-green tea bushes blanket the rolling hills. Wander along scenic paths and discover how generations of tea growers have carefully tended and hand-picked the finest leaves. Next, shift your focus to Da Lat’s thriving coffee culture at a nearby highland farm. Meet local growers, learn the secrets of high-altitude Arabica cultivation, and savor a rich, aromatic brew straight from the source. Afterward, take a private transfer back to the hotel and enjoy some free time in the afternoon before your evening street food tour.
Da Lat Street Food Tour
As the cool mountain mist settles over Da Lat, the city comes alive with the sights, sounds, and flavors of the evening. Head out on foot to explore the city’s lively night markets and tucked-away alleyway eateries, stopping at 4–5 spots to sample some of Da Lat’s favorite street foods. Try crispy Bánh Tráng Nướng, Da Lat’s famous “pizza,” fresh off the charcoal grill, comforting bowls of Bánh Căn with savory dipping sauces, and freshly brewed warm soy milk. Enjoy one beverage along the way, including beer, as you take in the lively atmosphere and laid-back charm of Da Lat after dark. The tour covers approximately 5–6 km on foot, conveniently located in the city center. After the tour, it’s just a short walk back to the hotel.
dinner
Dinner is included as a part of the Evening Street Food Tour. There will be 4-5 food stops and one beer or soft drink included (alcoholic spirits and cocktails not included). Any additional food and beverages may be purchased at your own expense.
Grand Mercure Dalat
(or similar)
Overnight in Da Lat.
Da Lat Gardens & Tuyen Lam Lake Adventure
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The hotel may offer a combination of Vietnamese and intercontinental breakfast. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.
The Cloud Forest Cafe
After breakfast, begin the morning with a short 20-minute transfer to The Cloud Forest, a rainforest-themed café tucked among lush greenery, ferns, and the gentle sound of a nearby stream. Enjoy a peaceful setting and a fresh cup of coffee before the day’s sightseeing begins. One drink is included; additional food and beverages are available at your own expense.
Valley of Love
Walk approximately 7 minutes to the Valley of Love, one of Da Lat’s most beloved attractions. Surrounded by pine-covered hills and a tranquil lake, the valley features colorful flower gardens, sculptures, scenic walking paths, and panoramic viewpoints. During the dry season, Da Lat’s flowers are in full bloom, making this an especially beautiful time to visit and capture photos of the landscape. The paved paths are easy to navigate, allowing you to comfortably explore the gardens and viewpoints.
Da Lat Flower Garden
Take a 10–15-minute private transfer from the Valley of Love to Da Lat Flower Garden, located in the heart of the city beside Xuan Huong Lake. Known as the floral heart of Da Lat, the garden features thousands of blooms from Vietnam and around the world, including roses, orchids, hydrangeas, tulips, lilies, begonias, and chrysanthemums, along with bonsai and rare ornamental plants. Wander through the landscaped gardens and greenhouse displays while learning more about Da Lat’s unique growing conditions, cultivation techniques, and long-standing connection to flowers. With different varieties blooming throughout the year, the garden offers a colorful glimpse into why Da Lat is known as Vietnam’s “City of Flowers.” After exploring the gardens, take a 20-minute private transfer back to the hotel for a short break before heading out again to Tuyen Lam Lake.
Tuyen Lam Lake
Take a 20-minute private transfer from the hotel to the serene shores of Tuyen Lam Lake, one of Da Lat’s most picturesque natural escapes. Upon arrival, gear up with your provided life jacket and set out on a 2–2.5-hour stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) adventure across the lake’s calm, mirror-like waters. Surrounded by lush pine forests and rolling hills, the peaceful setting is perfect for a relaxed afternoon on the water.Paddle at your own pace as the afternoon winds down, taking in the beautiful scenery and golden-hour light reflected across the tranquil lake. A convenience store nearby is available for snacks and refreshments before or after the activity. After the SUP experience, take a 20-minute private transfer back to the hotel and enjoy a free evening at your leisure.
Grand Mercure Dalat
(or similar)
Overnight in Da Lat.
Highland Scientific Research & Botanical Exploration
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The hotel may offer a combination of Vietnamese and intercontinental breakfast. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.
Scientific Research Institute of Highland Agriculture
After breakfast, take a 15-minute private transfer to the Scientific Research Institute of Highland Agriculture, gaining insight into Vietnam’s agricultural research and the development of temperate crops suited to Da Lat’s cool climate. The institute plays an important role in conserving native plant species and advancing flower cultivation and sustainable farming methods.
Golden Valley
From the institute, continue with a 30-minute private transfer to Golden Valley, a picturesque ecological park surrounded by pine forests, lakes, and rolling hills. Explore its beautifully landscaped grounds and impressive bonsai garden, home to hundreds of miniature trees carefully shaped over many years into living works of art. Admire the unique trunk formations and traditional Vietnamese pruning techniques that reflect patience, balance, and harmony with nature.
Glass Garden Succulent Farm
After exploring Golden Valley, take an approximately 35–40-minute private transfer to Glass Garden Succulent Farm. Located on the opposite side of Da Lat, the farm is home to hundreds of succulent varieties in a striking range of colors, shapes, and textures. Wander through the garden and discover a different side of Da Lat’s horticultural creativity, with an up-close look at the delicate plants grown in the region.
lunch
After the farm visit, continue to a local restaurant for lunch. Enjoy a Vietnamese set menu featuring 4–5 local dishes served Asian sharing style. Water is included with lunch; any additional food and beverages may be purchased at your own expense.
Cao Nguyen Hoa
After lunch, take a 15–20-minute private transfer to Cao Nguyen Hoa, a highland flower farm showcasing Da Lat’s vibrant floriculture industry. Wander through colorful flower fields and greenhouses, with seasonal blooms such as hydrangeas, roses, chrysanthemums, and lavender. Learn how modern greenhouse technology and flower-breeding techniques are used to cultivate flowers for both domestic and international markets. After the visit, take a 30-minute private transfer back to the hotel and enjoy a free evening at your leisure.
Grand Mercure Dalat
(or similar)
Overnight in Da Lat.
Lat Village & Lang Biang Peak
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The hotel may offer a combination of Vietnamese and intercontinental breakfast. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.
Transfer to Lat Village
Enjoy a one hour private transfer from your hotel to Lat Village.
Lat Village
After breakfast, depart for Lat Village, home to the K'Ho ethnic community and one of the oldest settlements in the Da Lat region. Walk through the village to learn about K'Ho customs, traditional stilt houses, and the community's long-standing relationship with the surrounding highlands.
Lang Biang
From Lat Village, continue with a 15–20-minute private transfer to Lang Biang, one of Da Lat’s most iconic mountain landscapes. Upon arrival, hop into a 4WD jeep and wind your way up the mountain road to the summit. From the top, enjoy panoramic views over Da Lat, surrounding pine forests, and rolling valleys, along with the cool mountain air. Take time to explore the summit area before descending by jeep and wrapping up your morning of highland exploration.
Transfer to Hotel
Enjoy a one hour private transfer from Lang Biang back to your hotel.
Grand Mercure Dalat
(or similar)
Overnight in Da Lat.
Hiking Adventure in Nui Ba National Park
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The hotel may offer a combination of Vietnamese and intercontinental breakfast. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.
Transfer to Nui Ba National Park
Enjoy a private transfer from your hotel to Nui Ba National Park.
Bidoup, Nui Ba National Park
After breakfast, meet your guide and head out on a private transfer of about one hour from Da Lat to Bidoup, Nui Ba National Park. Part of the UNESCO Langbiang Biosphere Reserve, the park is known for its incredible biodiversity, ancient forests, and unique highland landscapes. Before starting the trek, your guide will give a short health and safety briefing before you set off. Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended. The trek covers more than 5 km through pine and evergreen forests, with plenty of opportunities to stop for photos and enjoy the scenery along the way. Your guide will point out local plants, orchids, and other native species as you make your way deeper into the forest. Allow around 2.5 hours to reach Thien Thai Waterfall, depending on the group’s pace and photo stops.
Thien Thai Waterfall
Continue through the forest to reach the secluded Thien Thai Waterfall, tucked away among the trees and natural rock formations. Take some time to relax by the falls, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and snap some photos before sitting down for a picnic lunch in the forest. After lunch, begin the trek back to the starting point along a different route, giving you a chance to experience more of the surrounding forest and scenery. Once the hike is complete, take a private transfer back to Da Lat, arriving at the hotel in the late afternoon.
lunch
Enjoy a picnic lunch served along the trail in the forest.
Transfer to Hotel
Enjoy a private transfer back to your hotel from Nui Ba National Park.
Grand Mercure Dalat
(or similar)
Overnight in Da Lat.
Free Day & Farewell Dinner
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The hotel may offer a combination of Vietnamese and intercontinental breakfast. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.
Da Lat Scent Atelier
(optional)
Unwind in the pine-scented breeze of Da Lat with a cozy, creative candle-making experience. Under the warm light of a local studio, craft a bespoke scented candle tailored to your mood. Select from notes of cedarwood, lavender, citrus, and wild pine before artfully garnishing your creation with dried highland flowers. It’s a slow-travel experience designed to awaken your senses and leave you with a lasting memory of your mountain journey. The experience includes approximately 2.5 hours of round-trip private transfers to and from the hotel.
dinner
Mark the end of your journey with a farewell dinner set in the resort’ garden. Enjoy a curated menu paired with a selection of wines, and before dinner, take a walk through the resort's wine cellar for a glimpse into its collection and storage.
Grand Mercure Dalat
(or similar)
Overnight in Da Lat.
Wave Goodbye to Your Newfound Friends!
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The hotel may offer a combination of Vietnamese and intercontinental breakfast. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.
Departure Airport Transfer
TrovaTrip will provide 2 transfers to Lien Khuong International Airport (DLI) at 10:00 A.M. and 1:00 P.M. on the final day. Travelers departing outside of these requested flight guidelines will need to make their own arrangements to the airport.
Airports
Recommended Arrival Airport:
Lien Khuong International Airport
Recommended Departure Airport:
Lien Khuong International Airport
Add-Ons
Private Accommodation
Pre-Trip Accommodation
Post-Trip Accommodation
Insurance Policy
Optional Activities
Da Lat Scent Atelier
Physical Activity Level:Exploration
These trips require some movement, but slow and steady is the name of the game. Maybe a mid-length walking tour or at-your-pace sightseeing. No rush.
Essential Travel Information
Cancellation Policy
We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:
Spot Pending
Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip
Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind
After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.
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FAQ
Traveling with TrovaTrip
What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?
Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.
How does a Trova Trip actually work? Who's involved?
Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your trip to life:
- The Host is your community leader—the person who brings the group together, sets the vibe, and curates the overall experience. They may lead a workshop or activity during the trip, but their main focus is connection and community, not logistics.
- The Operator is the certified, independent company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle the logistics like accommodations, transportation, Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to ensure a high-quality travel experience.
- TrovaTrip is the platform that powers it all. We connect Hosts with trusted Operators, provide the tools to design and manage trips, and support Travelers before and during their journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.
In short: The Host shapes the experience and brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.
What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?
Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:
- The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
- The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
- TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.
In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.
I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?
First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:
- Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
- Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
- Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
- Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
- We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.
We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”
Can I book solo?
Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.
What if I need to cancel?
We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:
- Spot pending – 100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
- Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your trip – Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.
- Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your trip – Non-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.
After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.
What's included in the trip cost?
Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.
Does my Host make money from hosting?
TL;DR: Sometimes! Many Hosts earn income from leading trips, but not always.
Every trip on Trova is uniquely shaped by the Host. They choose the destination, curate the itinerary, and rally their community to come along for the adventure. It’s a big effort (and a rewarding one, or so we hear!).
A Host’s earnings depend on the trip price they set and how many Travelers join. Trova provides the tools, support, and platform—but ultimately, income isn’t guaranteed.
Will I have free time?
Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.
What do the activity levels mean?
Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:
- Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
- Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
- Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
- Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
- Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)
You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.
Who can I contact with more questions?
Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!
Accommodations
What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?
When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.
Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?
Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.
Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.
Trip Operations & Compliance
Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?
Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.
Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?
If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.
General Travel Questions
Do I need any documentation to travel?
It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise.
Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.
Do I need any vaccines?
It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!
Are flights included in the trip cost?
Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.
Can you accommodate my dietary needs?
We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.