Mountain Trails & Seaside Sails 10-day Private Tour

Overview

Experience the best of Vietnam with our 10-day "Mountain Trails & Seaside Sails" tour. This private, meticulously crafted itinerary takes you from the bustling capital of Hanoi to the stunning mountain trails of Hoang Su Phi and the serene seaside sails of Halong Bay. Each day is designed to immerse you in Vietnam's diverse landscapes and local traditions. If this tour captures your interest, please share your specific requirements, and we will customize the program to your satisfaction.

Trip Map

View Destination

Highlight

Hanoi Exploration: Discover Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, and Temple of Literature. Experience a traditional water puppet show and visit museums of your choice.
Bac Ha Village & Market: Scenic drive to Bac Ha, trek to Flower H’mong village, and visit the vibrant Bac Ha Market, known for colorful ethnic attire and lively livestock trading.
Hoang Su Phi Terraced Fields: Stay with locals and enjoy treks through terraced rice fields and Tay and Red Yao ethnic villages in Hoang Su Phi.
Halong Bay Cruise: Overnight cruise among Halong Bay’s limestone islands with activities like kayaking, swimming, and Tai Chi.

Detailed Itinerary

Expand All Close All

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN HANOI

Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam!
Upon arrival at Noi Bai airport, you are welcomed and greeted by the Custom Asia Travel tour guide and taken to your hotel by private transfer. The remainder of the day is relaxing or be on your own discovery.
Located on the banks of the Red River, Hanoi capital is one of the most ancient cities in the world. Here, visitors are able to find well-preserved colonial buildings, old Buddhist pagodas, and unique museums within the city. The best way to explore its Old Quarter is on foot. This French-colonial city is also known for its delicious cuisines, vibrant nightlife, and souvenir shopping…

Overnight in Hanoi:
Inclusions: Private airport pick-up/ Tour guide/ Hotel accommodation

DAY 2: HANOI CITY TOUR

After breakfast, you will start your day 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 a quick lunch break, you will head to the Hoa Lo Prison, known as the "Hanoi Hilton" during the Vietnam War, to gain insight into the country's history of struggle and resistance.

Next, you will visit the Women's Museum, which showcases the important role of women in Vietnam's history and culture. You will then 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 transfer/ Tour guide/ Entrance fee/ Water puppet show/ Breakfast, Lunch/ Hotel accommodation

DAY 3: HANOI - BAC HA

Depart from Hanoi at 8:00 a.m. you will travel to Bac Ha District, Lao Cai Province on the HW Noi Bai – Lao Cai. This is the longest highway in Vietnam. The scenic drive from the Red River Delta, through the midland to Lao Cai province, will be a good start for your trip. Lunch at a local restaurant in Bao Nhai.
The afternoon drive takes you about 20 km uphill to Bac Ha town. On arrival, check-in a local house for the home-stay tonight. After refreshment, set off with your private tour guide to embark on a 1,5-hour trek to a Flower H' mong village nearby (Ban Pho Village).
Dinner tonight at the home-stay.

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

DAY 4: BAC HA MARKET - HOANG SU PHI (SUN)

This morning, if it is on Tuesday, Saturday or Sunday. There are interesting hill tribe markets that you are able to attend. The hill tribe markets in Bac Ha region are very colorful. Spend about 1.5 hours or 2 hours to stroll around and hunt some good photographs. The markets are alive with the bright colors and extravagant costumes of the highlanders, especially the Flower H'mong. Together with other minorities, they come from different villages at the surroundings to the markets to buy and sell a wide variety of goods and livestock. It is more common to see buffalo, cows, horses and other livestock being traded. After the market, make your way to Coc Pai town for lunch. Thence keep driving to Hoang Su Phi for the late afternoon scenic terraced field trek to Ban Luoc stilt-house village of the Tay ethnic people - Another home-stay for tonight.

Overnight in Hoang Su Phi
Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Tour guide/ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner/ Hotel accommodation

DAY 5: HOANG SU PHI TREK

This morning, after breakfast at the family, you will trek the scenic dirt trail up and down the terraced fields in Ban Luoc area. This area is one of the highlighted landscapes in Hoang Su Phi. The fields look best at the yellow season (in the early half of October). After 2.5 hours, you will get back to the bigger road where you will get the car transfer to the nearby town for lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, drive down to Thong Nguyen Commune for another up-hill trek to Nam Hong village. The trek takes almost 2 hours.
Check-in your accommodation, dinner and stay overnight.

Overnight in Hoang Su Phi
Inclusions: Private a.c.vehicle/ Tour guide/ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner/ Homestay accommodation (Alternative is at a lodge)

DAY 6: HOANG SU PHI TREK

The breakfast is served at the home-stay, start the adventure around 8h30 a.m. Today you will have the whole day trek to admire the amazing rice terraces in Nam Khoa commune. The trek is moderate but there are some small challenges at times. It is about 6 - 7 hours. Picnic lunch is prepared at a local house on the way. Late in the afternoon, arrive at your last home-stay of the trip to Nam Hong village. This village is of the Red Yao ethnic minority people. Check-in and rest.

Overnight in Hoang Su Phi
Inclusions: Private a.c transfer/ Tour guide/ Breakfast, lunch, dinner/ Homestay accommodation (Alternative is at a lodge)

DAY 7: HOANG SU PHI - HANOI

Take your time to enjoy breakfast and chill out a bit this morning. At 9:00 a.m. pack up and bid farewell to the host family for the 7-hour drive back to Hanoi
Lunch is on the way. Arrive at your hotel in Hanoi in the afternoon. After hotel check-in, spend the remainder of the day relaxing or doing your own things.

Overnight in Hanoi
Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Tour guide/ Breakfast, lunch/ Hotel accommodation

DAY 8: HANOI - HALONG BAY

In the morning, you will be picked up from your hotel in Hanoi and driven to Halong Bay. Upon arrival at the pier in Halong City, you will board the cruise ship. As you cruise through the mesmerizing limestone karsts and crystal-clear waters, a delicious lunch will be served on board. Take in the stunning scenery as you glide along the bay. You will have the opportunity to visit a fascinating cave, where a guided tour will unveil its impressive formations. In the afternoon, you can choose to swim, kayak, or simply relax on the sun deck. As the sun sets, enjoy a delectable dinner on the boat, surrounded by the breathtaking views of Halong Bay. You will spend the night on the cruise ship, immersed in the serene ambiance of the bay.

Overnight in Halong Bay
Inclusions: Shared shuttle bus/ Cruise's in-house tour guide/ Cruise package/ En-suite cabin on the boat.

DAY 9: HALONG BAY - HANOI

Wake up early to witness the captivating sunrise over the bay. Participate in a Tai Chi session on the sundeck to rejuvenate your body and mind. After a hearty breakfast, the cruise will continue to explore different areas of Halong Bay, allowing you to discover more hidden treasures and awe-inspiring landscapes. A delicious brunch will be served on board as the boat gradually returns to the pier. Upon disembarking, you will be transferred back to Hanoi. In the afternoon, you will arrive in Hanoi and be dropped off at your hotel, marking the end of this unforgettable Halong Bay experience.

Please note that the exact itinerary may vary depending on the chosen cruise company and weather conditions.

Overnight in Hanoi
Inclusions: Shared shuttle bus/ Cruise's in-house tour guide/ Cruise package/ Hotel accommodation

DAY 10: DEPARTURE FROM HANOI

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 trip.

Until next time!
Inclusions: Private airport transfer/ Breakfast

Watch detailed itinerary in video

Watch our quick video for a snapshot of your entire journey — all the must-see stops in one view.

FAQS

1. Is this tour customizable?

Absolutely! This itinerary is a suggested travel idea designed to inspire your journey. It serves as a starting point and can be fully customized to match your interests, schedule, and preferences. Whether you'd like to adjust the activities, include additional destinations, or tailor the pace of the trip, we're here to create a personalized experience just for you. Let us know what you're looking for, and we’ll craft an itinerary that perfectly fits your vision.

2. What makes a private tour special?

A private tour means your journey is exclusively yours. You'll have your own professional guide and private vehicle, giving you the freedom to travel at your own pace. You can linger longer at spots you love, make spontaneous stops for photos, and enjoy an experience built entirely around your interests, not a fixed group schedule.

3. Are solo travelers and small groups welcome?

Yes, absolutely! We specialize in creating personalized journeys for solo travelers, couples, families, and small groups of friends. As a solo traveler, your itinerary is tailored completely to you. A single supplement fee may apply for accommodation, but we will always work to find the best options for your needs.

4. What is included in the tour price?

Your personalized proposal will include a detailed list of inclusions. Typically, this covers:

Accommodation with daily breakfast
Private, air-conditioned transportation
A private, licensed tour guide
Entrance fees for all scheduled sights
Meals as specified in the itinerary

Exclusions are generally international flights, visa fees, travel insurance, and personal expenses.

5. What kind of accommodation can I expect?

We offer a wide range of accommodations to suit your style, from charming boutique hotels and eco-lodges to luxury resorts. To ensure maximum flexibility, we don't specify hotels in our sample itineraries. Your travel expert will suggest carefully selected options in your proposal, and we are happy to adjust them based on your preferences.

6. Do I need a visa for my destination?

Visa requirements vary greatly depending on your nationality and destination. While your travel expert will offer guidance during the planning stage, we strongly recommend checking the official embassy or consulate website for the most current information.

7. What is the booking process?

Our booking process is simple and collaborative:

Send a Request: Fill out the form on our website with your travel ideas.
Personalize Your Trip: A travel expert will contact you to craft a detailed proposal, which you can refine until it’s perfect.
Confirm & Book: Once you are 100% happy with the plan, you confirm your trip with a deposit.

8. What are the payment and cancellation policies?

To secure your booking, we require a deposit, which is typically 30% of the total tour cost. The final balance is due 60 days before your departure. Our cancellation policy is structured based on how far in advance the cancellation is made.

For full, detailed information, please see our Booking Terms & Conditions.

9. Do I need travel insurance?

Yes, travel insurance is essential for your trip. At Custom Asia Travel, we do not include insurance in our packages to allow you the freedom to choose an insurance provider that best suits your needs and guarantees your rights. Your trip is a significant experience, and having reliable insurance ensures you are well-supported in case of unexpected events.

Please note that basic insurance policies in the host country may not meet your expectations regarding support or administrative procedures. Therefore, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance from your preferred provider.

Important: All customers are required to have valid travel insurance, and we request that you share your insurance details with us before departure.

Request a quote for this trip

Free service! No credit card requested at this stage The note if you are a solo traveler

Travel Date