Authentic Northern Vietnam

After breakfast, your guide will meet you at your hotel at 8:00 am to start your day of exploring the highlights of Hanoi. You will begin by visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Uncle Ho's house on stilts to learn about the life and legacy of Vietnam's beloved leader. Next, you will visit the One Pillar Pagoda, a unique temple built on a single stone pillar, and the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university. After the lunch break, you will head to the Museum of Ethnology to gain insight into the diverse cultures and traditions of Vietnam's many ethnic groups. Next, you will take a cyclo ride through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter to soak up the atmosphere and experience local life. Your last stop of the day will be at Hoan Kiem Lake with Ngoc Son Temple, where you can learn about the legend of the lake and its significance to the people of Hanoi. To wrap up the day, you will attend a traditional water puppet show, a unique and entertaining art form that has been a part of Vietnam's cultural heritage for centuries.

Overnight in Hanoi

Inclusions: Private a.c Vehicle/ Tour guide/ Sightseeing tickets/ Water pupet show/ Breakfast, Lunch/ Hotel accommodation

Start your day by departing from Hanoi at 8:00 am. The drive takes 2.5 hours to Ninh Binh, where your adventure awaits. Upon arrival, embark on a sampan boat and explore the mesmerizing limestone caves of Trang An. The tunnel-like caves will take you on a magical journey through the natural wonders. Afterwards, treat yourself to a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of the region. In the afternoon, hop on a bicycle and meander along the peaceful country back roads. Immerse yourself in the serene countryside as you pedal through picturesque landscapes. For a panoramic view that will take your breath away, hike to the summit of Hang Mua. The summit offers a stunning vista of the surrounding karst formations, rewarding your efforts with an unforgettable sight. Continue your cycling adventure towards Tam Coc, taking in the scenic beauty that unfolds before your eyes. After the bike tour, check into a hotel in the region for the night.

Overnight in Ninh Binh

Inclusions: Private a.c vehicle/ Tour guide/ Sighseeing tickets/ Bicycles/ Boat ride/ Breakfast, Lunch/ Hotel accommodation

After breakfast at the hotel, you will check out and set off for the day.This morning visits include Bai Dinh Pagoda and Van Long Nature Reserve. Bai Dinh pagoda is one of the largest pagodas in Southeast Asia. Marvel at its grandeur and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of this sacred place. Continue your exploration with a boat ride in the enchanting Van Long Nature Reserve. As you glide along the serene waters, keep your eyes peeled for a chance to witness the mesmerizing beauty of the white-shorts langurs, a rare primate species that calls this reserve home. After indulging in the natural splendor of Van Long, recharge with a delicious lunch before driving to Cuc Phuong National Park. Upon arrival, visit the park's visitor center to deepen your understanding of its rich biodiversity and conservation efforts. Take a moment to appreciate the remarkable work done at the Primate Rescue Center, where you may have the opportunity to observe some of the rarest primate species on the planet. Continue your exploration with a visit to the Turtle Center, dedicated to the preservation and protection of various turtle and tortoise species. Learn about their conservation efforts and the importance of safeguarding these magnificent creatures. As the day unfolds, take a leisurely walk to Mac Lake, surrounded by the park's lush greenery and serene ambiance. This tranquil setting offers a perfect opportunity for reflection and connection with nature. Finally, check into a cozy lakeside bungalow, where you will spend the night enveloped by the peaceful sounds of the forest. Enjoy a delightful dinner, savoring the flavors of the region, before resting and rejuvenating for the adventures that await you tomorrow.

Overnight in Cuc Phuong National Park

Inclusions: Private a.c vehicle/ Tour guide/  Sightseeing tickets/ Electrical car ride/ Boat ride/ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner/ Hotel accommodation

This morning, if you are an early bird, take a walk around the lake for fresh air before breakfast. then check out and get ready for a 7-kilometer hike along a loop trail, immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of nature. The trail will lead you to the magnificent 1000-year-old tree, a living testament to the park's rich history. Along the way, uncover the secrets and wonders of the natural world that surrounds you. After the hike, on the way out, visit the Cave of Prehistoric Man, where ancient human skeletons and stone tools dating back 7,500 years have been discovered. This extraordinary glimpse into the past adds a fascinating dimension to your experience. Lunch at the park’s restaurant. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic drive to Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Enjoy the picturesque journey, including a stop to witness traditional bamboo water wheels used for irrigation. Marvel at their intricate design, an age-old method to ensure proper irrigation of rice paddies. Upon arrival in Pu Luong, check-in at our accommodation. Spend the remainder of the day relax at the resort. As the day winds down, delight in a delectable dinner, savoring the flavors of local cuisine. Retire to our overnight accommodation in Pu Luong, ready to embrace the serenity of nature.

Overnight in Pu Luong

Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Tour guide/ Sighseeing tickets/ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner/ Hotel accommodation

As usual, your breakfast is served in the accommodation. Check-out and get ready for more exploring trek this morning. The trek today will take us through mesmerizing landscapes to visit a hill tribe village of Kho Muong. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the local community, interact with the residents, and gain insights into their way of life. As we continue our trek to Pho Doan, be prepared to be amazed by the breathtaking views of the sprawling rice terraces, evergreen mountains that surround us, creating a picturesque backdrop. Lunch is served at a local restaurant at the end of the trek. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic drive to Thung Nai, a charming hill tribe village inhabited by the Muong people. These welcoming locals live in traditional stilt houses nestled near the picturesque Hoa Binh Reservoir. Upon arrival, check into a cozy homestay, where you will experience the warmth and hospitality of the Muong culture. Indulge in a delicious dinner, savoring the flavors of the region, before retiring for a peaceful overnight stay. Embrace the authentic charm of Thung Nai as you immerse yourself in the local way of life.

Overnight in Hoa Binh

Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Tour guide/ Sighseeing tickets/ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner/ Homestay accommodation

This morning, be prepared for an early awakening by the delightful sounds of country animals such as roosters, pigs, and dogs. After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the homestay, it's time to bid farewell to the warm and welcoming host family. Embark on a motorized boat for a scenic cruise on the enchanting Hoa Binh Reservoir, where you can immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Relax and take in the serene atmosphere as you glide along the tranquil waters. During the two-hour boat ride, you'll have ample opportunity to appreciate the stunning scenery that unfolds before you. Once the boat ride concludes, you will be picked up and transferred to Van Ho province, where a tasty lunch awaits you at a local house. Indulge in the flavors of the region while savoring the authentic taste of traditional cuisine.

In the afternoon, prepare for an invigorating uphill trek to another village inhabited by the hospitable Muong people. Immerse yourself in the lush greenery and embrace the natural beauty that surrounds you. Upon reaching the village, check into a homestay located in a traditional stilt house, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the local culture and way of life. As the evening arrives, enjoy a delicious dinner filled with the delightful flavors of the region.Rest and relax in the cozy and welcoming atmosphere of the homestay. Embrace the tranquility of the surroundings and appreciate the authentic charm of the Muong village.

Overnight in Van Ho

Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Tour guide/ Boat ride/ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner/ Homestay accommodation

After enjoying a hearty breakfast at the homestay, it's time to kick off an exciting day of exploration! At around 8:30 AM, transfer to the starting point of your morning trek. Get ready to embark on a captivating journey through the enchanting landscapes of Na Bai village. Over the course of approximately 2,5 hours, you'll meander along forest trails, traverse fruit gardens, and stroll through scenic rice fields, all while soaking up the natural beauty of the area. Once the trek comes to an end, return to the homestay to freshen up and bid farewell to the host family. Replenish your energy with a delightful lunch served at a local restaurant in Moc Chau town. In the afternoon, prepare for a delightful experience as you explore the sprawling tea plantations. Gain fascinating insights into the art of tea production and learn why Vietnam is renowned as a top exporter of green tea worldwide. Take a leisurely walk through the verdant tea fields, capturing memorable moments amidst the fragrant leaves. Continuing your journey, you'll make your way to Ta So village, a charming community inhabited by the Flower H'mong people. Along the way, make sure to pause at scenic spots and viewpoints, allowing you to capture breathtaking photos and savor the awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. As the day progresses, you'll arrive at Ta So village, where you'll check into a cozy homestay. Take advantage of this opportunity to explore the village and its picturesque surroundings, accompanied by your knowledgeable tour guide. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the H'mong people, gaining a deeper understanding of their traditions and way of life. Between 6:30 p.m and 7:00 p.m, a delectable dinner awaits you at the homestay. Indulge in a tantalizing feast of local specialties, savoring the unique flavors and aromas of the region. As you dine, engage in meaningful conversations and learn more about the captivating culture and traditions of the H'mong community. After a day filled with exhilarating adventures and immersive cultural experiences, retire to your comfortable homestay in Ta So Village. Let the tranquility of the surroundings lull you into a peaceful night's sleep, ensuring you're well-rested for the next day's adventures.

Overnight in Ta So, Moc Chau

Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Tour guide/ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner/ Homestay accommodation

Good morning! It's time to start our day of adventure in the charming Ta So village. After enjoying the breakfast at the homestay, we'll hop into our vehicle and head towards the starting point of our trek to Hang Tau village. The trek will take us approximately 2.5 hours, during which we'll traverse through picturesque landscapes, including magnificent limestone mountains, lush green gardens, and flourishing farms. Prepare to be mesmerized by the natural beauty that surrounds us at every turn. Hang Tau village, nestled in a secluded valley, offers a unique glimpse into the simple yet captivating lives of the locals. We'll have the wonderful opportunity to witness their daily routines and, if we're lucky, visit a local family to engage in authentic interactions and learn more about their traditions and customs. After immersing ourselves in the beauty of Hang Tau village, we'll continue our trek, meandering through the mountains and eventually returning to the main road. From there, we'll embark on an enjoyable drive to our next destination, Mu Cang Chai, a paradise of rice terraced fields. Along the way, we'll make stops for photo opportunities, capturing the breathtaking landscapes that unfold before us. One of the highlights will be a visit to Ngoc Chien village, where we'll have the pleasure of meeting the hospitable Thai people and gaining insights into their vibrant culture. And here's a delightful surprise: we'll have a chance to refresh ourselves with a quick bath at Ngoc Chien hot spring, where the soothing waters will rejuvenate our spirits. As the evening approaches, we'll arrive at the welcoming Mu Cang Chai ecolodge. After checking in, it'll be time to indulge in a well-deserved dinner. The ecolodge provides a comfortable and cozy retreat for a restful night's sleep.

Overnight in Mu Cang Chai

Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Tour guide/ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner/ Eco-lodge accommodation

Start your day off right at the charming ecolodge with a delicious breakfast. At 8:00 AM, we'll begin our exciting day tour, exploring the best of Mu Cang Chai. Hop in the car as we drive for about an hour to reach the trekking point in Che Cu Nha village. Don't forget to keep your camera handy, as we'll make a couple of scenic stops along the way for those perfect snapshots. Once we arrive, get ready to embark on an unforgettable trekking adventure. Today's trek will cover approximately 10 kilometers and take us around 5 to 6 hours to complete. We'll be treated to breathtaking views of the famous Mu Cang Chai rice terraces, a true national treasure. Capture the stunning landscapes with your camera and listen to our knowledgeable guide, who will share intriguing stories about the history and culture of the area. Along the way, we'll have the chance to meet friendly locals from the H'mong and Thai communities, known for their rich traditions and customs. Lunch will be provided in the form of a delicious lunchbox, allowing us to refuel and continue our adventure. As the late afternoon approaches, we'll conclude our trek and check into another accommodation for our second night of relaxation and experience.

Overnight in Mu Cang Chai

Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Tour guide/ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner/ Homestay or Deluxe resort accommodation

After a satisfying breakfast at the accommodation, it's time to bid farewell to the beautiful surroundings and make our way back to Hanoi. But don't worry, we have some wonderful stops planned along the way to make the journey just as enjoyable. Our first stop is at Khau Pha Pass, known for its stunning mountain views. Get ready to be captivated by the panoramic vistas of the Lim Mong rice valley, famous for its terraced rice fields. It's a perfect spot for taking in the breathtaking scenery and maybe even witnessing parachute flying, a popular activity in the area. Next, we'll head to Tu Le town, where we'll take a leisurely walk through Tu Le valley. Take a moment to appreciate the serene beauty of the rural surroundings and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. After our walk, we'll refuel with lunch at a local restaurant in Tu Le town. In the afternoon, we'll continue our drive back to Hanoi, with a possible coffee break to stretch our legs and enjoy a hot cup of tea or coffee. As the day slowly comes to a close, we'll arrive in Hanoi, marking the end of our captivating loop trip through the Northwest highlands. Rest and unwind in the evening, enjoying dinner and relaxation in the vibrant capital city. Get ready for a delightful cruise in Halong Bay the following day.

Overnight in Hanoi

Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Tour guide/ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner/ Hotel accommodation

[Details of this day will be replaced by a specific cruise's selected that will be adviced by your travel specialist]

On this day of the journey, you will embark on a magical adventure to one of the world's most famous natural wonders: Halong Bay. It’s just 2 and half hours away. Around noontime, you will begin your journey to explore the breathtaking scenery of this UNESCO-listed natural heritage site, which also happens to be one of the 7 wonders of the world. As you cruise on a luxurious yacht, you will marvel at the sight of hundreds of limestone towers emerging from the pristine blue waters of the bay. You will have the chance to participate in various exciting activities, such as kayaking, swimming, visiting limestone caves, and even squid fishing. Your meals will be served on the boat, and your comfortable cabin will provide the perfect setting for your night out on the bay. This will be a truly unforgettable experience that will conclude your Scenic Northern Vietnam Journey on a high note.

Overnight on board

Inclusions: Shuttle bus/ Tour guide/ Sighseeing tickets/ Overnight cruise package/ Cruise accommodation

[Details of this day will be replaced by a specific cruise's selected that will be adviced by your travel specialist]

An overnight cruise in Halong Bay is a unique and unforgettable experience. Be sure to catch both the sunrise and sunset, watching as the sun ascends over the Gulf of Tonkin and sets behind the picturesque islands and limestone outcrops. The blue hour, the time between dusk and darkness, is also a breathtaking sight and is believed by locals to be the most beautiful time to view the bay. Don't miss out on the sunset the day before and wake up early enough to catch the morning views from the deck. After an early lunch, the cruise will end around 11 a.m. and you will then be driven back to Hanoi, where you will spend the final night of your trip.

Overnight in Hanoi

Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Tour guide/ Breakfast, Lunch/ Hotel accommodation

Today marks the end of our incredible journey together. Depending on your departure flight time, you may have a busy morning preparing for your departure or have some leisure time to relax and perhaps do some last-minute shopping. If your schedule allows, take this opportunity to walk and explore the vibrant streets and markets one last time, picking up souvenirs and mementos to cherish from your time in Vietnam. Indulge in the flavors of the local cuisine, soak up the atmosphere, and create lasting memories. When the time comes, our team will ensure a smooth transfer to the airport, ensuring you reach your departure gate in a timely manner. As you bid farewell to Vietnam, take a moment to reflect on the incredible adventures, the beautiful landscapes, and the warm hospitality you have experienced throughout your stay. Thank you for joining us on this unforgettable journey through the north of Vietnam. We hope it has left a lasting impression on your heart and created memories that will stay with you for a lifetime. Safe travels, and until we meet again, goodbye Vietnam.

Overnight (not available)

Inclusions: Private airport transfer/ Tour guide