Northeast Vietnam Loop

  • Code: CV15A
  • Private tour
  • Duration: 15 days
  • Pricing idea: $2,700 per person (Based on 2 persons and 4-star hotels)

Overview

This 15-day adventure takes you through northern Vietnam, offering a perfect blend of cultural immersion, scenic trekking, and natural beauty. From exploring the historic streets of Hanoi to trekking in remote ethnic villages, visiting iconic landscapes like Halong Bay and Ban Gioc Waterfall, and experiencing traditional lifestyles, this trip showcases the diversity and charm of Vietnam’s northern regions. Highlights include vibrant markets, stunning rice terraces, majestic waterfalls, and boat rides through lush national parks, providing an unforgettable journey through one of Southeast Asia’s most captivating regions.

Trip Map

Northeast Vietnam Loop
View Destination

Highlight

  • Hanoi Exploration: Visit key sites like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, and the Old Quarter.
  • Ethnic Village & Trek: Stay with a Red Yao ethnic family in Hoang Su Phi and trek through scenic rice fields.
  • Dong Van Karst Geopark: Hike through the Karst Geopark, visit the H'mong King Palace, and explore Lung Cu Flag Tower.
  • Sunday Market & Trek: Explore Dong Van Sunday Market and trek Ma Pi Leng Pass with stunning views of Nho Que River.
  • Ba Be Lake: Cruise on Ba Be Lake, explore Puong Limestone Cave, and visit Dau Dang Waterfall.
  • Ban Gioc Waterfall: Visit the Ban Gioc Waterfall on the Vietnam-China border and explore Nguom Ngao Cave.
  • Bac Son Valley: Hike Telephone Station Mountain for panoramic views and stay with the Tay people.
  • Pottery Village & Bac Ninh: Discover traditional pottery-making in the Red River Delta.
  • Halong & Lan Ha Bay Cruise: Sail through Lan Ha Bay, kayak, and enjoy the scenic beauty of Halong Bay.
  • Cycling in Cat Ba: Ride through Cat Ba National Park to Viet Hai Village and cruise back to Hanoi.

Itinerary

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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

hanoi-street-light tran-quoc-pagoda

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 vehicle/ Tour guide/ Entrance fees/ Breakfast, lunch, dinner/ cyclo ride/ Water puppet show/ Hotel accommodation

hoan-kiem-lake-hanoi khue-van-cac-hanoi

At 8:00 AM you will be met and greeted by your private tour guide and driver at your hotel in Hanoi where you start for the trip. The drive today takes about 7 hours, including some stops on the way for photo opportunities and having lunch.
​Once you arrived in Thong Nguyen commune, Hoang Su Phi, check-in a home-stay at a Red Yao ethnic village for the night.
Refreshing and enjoy the dinner, cooked by the family.

Overnight in Hoang Su Phi:
Inclusions: Private a.c vehicle/ Tour guide/ Breakfast, lunch, dinner/ Homestay (Hotel) accommodation

hoang-su-phi-rice-terraces Hoang-Su-Phi

Today, you will do a whole day trek from Thong Nguyen Commune to Nam Son Commune.
Along the way, you are able to enjoy the beautiful scenery with stunning rice fields. The trek is moderate but there are some small challenges at times. It is about 5 - 6 hours.

Picnic lunch is prepared at a local house on the way.
Dinner and overnight at another local house.

Overnight in Hoang Su Phi:
Inclusions: Private a.c vehicle/ Tour guide/ Breakfast, lunch, dinner/ Bottled water in vehicle/ Homestay (Hotel) accommodation

trekking-hoang-su-phi ha-giang-hoang-su-phi

After breakfast, check-out and heading to the Karst Geo-park. The drive up to the highland region of Ha Giang will offer you some good photo opportunities on the way.
Lunch is at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, the scenery is getting more stunning with high passes and august mountains. The typical photo opportunities are a stop at Quan Ba pass, a step hike to a view-point for Quan Ba Fairy Mountains. Short walks at Pho Cao village of the Hmong, Pho Bang of the Han (Chinese). Check-in a hotel in this peaceful town for the night.

Overnight in Dong Van:
Inclusions: Private a.c vehicle/ Tour guide/ Breakfast, lunch, dinner/ Bottled water in vehicle/ Homestay (Hotel) accommodation

After breakfast, set off for the scenic morning trek in Karst Geopark. The trek in between the gray limestone mountains takes more than 3 hours (approx. 13km). This trek is a real discovery on which you have a chance to enjoy the beautiful scenery and learning the amazing daily life of the tribal H'mong people. At the end of the trek, you will reach an interesting historical and cultural site. It is the H'mong King Palace. Take your time to visit the construction. Lunch is prepared at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, take a drive to Lung Cu Flag Tower (The monument was built to mark the northernmost point in Vietnam). Walk to the tower for the view over the area. After that, your private vehicle will take you to Dong Van town. Check-in a hotel and stay for the night.

Overnight in Dong Van:
Inclusions: Private a.c vehicle/ Tour guide/ Entrance fees/ Breakfast, lunch, dinner/ Bottled water in vehicle/ Homestay (Hotel) accommodation

trekking-to-ha-giang lung-cu-ha-giang

There is a colorful market in town (If it is Sunday today), take time of the morning to stroll around the market for hunting some photos of the locals while they are trading before hiking up to Dong Van Cannon Fort Mt. for the stunning panorama view over the valley and its town. ​ Back to the town for lunch. ​The afternoon transfer takes you to Meo Vac. On the way, stop for another trek which is above the Ma Pi Leng Pass. This scenic trek is amazing as it is on a small path but offers you marvelous views over the abyss and Nho Que River. Arrive at Meo Vac, check into your hotel and take easy for the remainder of the day.
(If it is not on Sunday, the morning will be spent for the sky-walk trek and the afternoon will be for a boat ride on Nho Que River through Tu San Canyon. This boat ride is a new experience in Ha Giang and this is considered one of the deepest and most unique canyons in Vietnam. Late afternoon, check-in a hotel in Meo Vac and stay overnight.)

Overnight in Meo Vac:
Inclusions: Private a.c vehicle/ Tour guide/ Entrance fees/ Breakfast, lunch, dinner/ Bottled water in vehicle/ Homestay (Hotel) accommodation

ma-pi-leng-ha-giang nho-que-river

7:30 am check out at your hotel and your guide will take you to a breakfast shop to enjoy a typical local breakfast in this small town.

Today, you will drive downhill to Bac Kan province, where Ba Be National Park located and it is famous for its large, green freshwater lake. Along the way, you will clearly see the change of terrain from the barren mountains with jagged limestone to the mountains covered with dense vegetation. A countryside of small rivers winding from one valley to the next, a lot of lush fields, and the villages looming at the foot of the mountains. Lunch on the way.
In the late afternoon, you will arrive at a Tay ethnic minority village located in the national park. Check-in, dinner, and overnight.

Overnight in Ba Be National Park:
Inclusions: Private a.c vehicle/ Tour guide/ Entrance fees/ Breakfast, lunch, dinner/ Bottled water in vehicle/ Homestay (Hotel) accommodation

ba-be-panorama ba-be-lake

After breakfast, take a short walk to the boat dock and take the motor-boat ride through Ba Be Lake, which is considered as the biggest natural freshwater lake in Vietnam. The cruise is beautiful with the scenery of steep limestone mountains covered by dense rainforest. Onward to Nang River and downstream to visit Dau Dang Waterfall. After viewing the waterfall, we will get back to the boat and move on upstream for Puong Limestone Cave. The Nang River runs through a limestone mountain in this national park and created a big cave that is decorated with many beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is also the shelter of thousand bats. About 15 minutes after the cave, you will land at a little dock where your private vehicle awaiting, get back on, and drive to Cho Ra Town for your lunch at a local restaurant.

The afternoon drive will take you to Cao Bang province. On arrival in the city, check-in a centrally located hotel for the night.

Overnight in Cao Bang:
Inclusions: Private a.c vehicle/ Tour guide/ Entrance fees/ Boat tour/ Breakfast, lunch, dinner/ Bottled water in vehicle/ Homestay (Hotel) accommodation

ba-be-boat-ride puong-cave

Start the day with 3-hour drive to the remote Trung Khanh District which shares the border with China. There are stops on the way to take photographs and witness the ethnic Nung people making basic blacksmiths with their farming tools in Phuc Sen village. Upon arrival at the waterfall, we take a walk to the base of the falls. If the water is not so violent, we will take a raft to get closer to the falls and enjoy the cool temperature, due to the water mist in the air. The fall is located right on the border between China and Vietnam.
Enjoy your Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant nearby. Continue on visiting Nguom Ngao limestone Cave, which is about 2 km from Ban Gioc Fall. Thousands of colorful stalactites and stalagmites will amaze you. Back to the car and make your way to a homestay in this rural region.

Overnight in Cao Bang:
Inclusions: Private a.c vehicle/ Tour guide/ Entrance fees/ Breakfast, lunch, dinner/ Bottled water in vehicle/ Homestay (Hotel) accommodation

Check out of the hotel after your breakfast and get ready for the morning drive to Bac Son Valley in Lang Son province. The drive includes some stops on the way for you to take photographs whenever you want. Arrive at Quynh Son village of the ethnic Tay people and have lunch on a stilt house. This afternoon you will walk to visit the village and hike up to the top of the telephone-station mountain for stunning scenery over the valley. This is a great point for those who love photographing. Dinner and chat chit with the host of our homestay tonight.

Overnight in Bac Son:
Inclusions: Private a.c vehicle/ Tour guide/ Entrance fees/ Breakfast, lunch, dinner/ Bottled water in vehicle/ Homestay (Hotel) accommodation

bac-son-valley bac-son-village

After the traditional breakfast, this morning we will embark on a 3,5-hour hike on a rural back road. Along the hike, you can have a close look at the local farming, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere in a good harmony of mountains, forests and local life. At the end of the hike, get picked up by our private transport back to the family. After lunch, spend the afternoon drive back to Hanoi. On arrival, check into your accommodation and take it easy for the remainder of the day.

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

bac-son-trekking visiting-a-local-village

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: Cruise's shuttle bus/ Cruise' in-house tour guide/ Entrance fees/ Cruise package/ Breakfast, lunch, dinner/ Private en-suite cabin on boat

stellar-cuise halong-bay-panorama

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: Cruise's shuttle bus/ Cruise's in-house tour guide/ Cruise package/ Breakfast, lunch/ Hotel accommodation

taichi-on-board-cruise sun-deck-halong-bay

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/ Tour guide/ Breakfast/ Hotel accommodation

 

ha-noi-green-street departure

Want to read it late?

Download this tour's PDF brochure and start tour planning offline

FAQS

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.

This suggested itinerary does not specify exact accommodations as we aim to remain flexible and cater to your preferences. However, in our initial proposal, we will include suggested types of accommodations for each day, carefully chosen to enhance your experience. If you have specific preferences or would like alternative options, we’re happy to adjust accordingly and provide professional recommendations to ensure your stay is exactly as you envision.

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.

The itinerary you see above is a suggested program, designed as a starting point for your travel planning. This is not a fixed departure tour but a fully personalized and private experience tailored to your preferences. As a result, prices, services, and details may vary to suit your unique needs.

To process, simply fill out the request form on the right side of the page with your basic information and travel preferences. Once we receive your request, one of our travel experts will contact you directly to discuss your ideas and finalize the details. This ensures everything is clear and customized to your satisfaction before you make your final decision to book with us.

At Custom Asia Travel, we strive to make the payment process smooth and transparent. Once you confirm your travel itinerary with us, we require a deposit to secure your booking. The deposit amount typically from 30% of the total trip cost, depending on the complexity and services involved in your itinerary.

The remaining balance is usually due 60 days before your trip's start date. If your booking is made close to the departure date (within 60 days), full payment may be required at the time of confirmation.

Payments can be made by cash, credit card (MasterCard, Visa), or wire transfer, unless otherwise agreed by your travel agent. Please note that international transfer fees or credit card processing fees may apply and are the responsibility of the traveler.

We will provide detailed payment instructions and ensure clear communication throughout the process. Should you have any specific concerns or requests, our team will be happy to assist.

More detail please view our booking terms & condition

  • Traveler Cancellation:

30% non-refundable deposit upon confirmation.
60-46 days before arrival: 50% penalty.
45-31 days before arrival: 75% penalty.
30 days or less before arrival: 100% penalty.
Note: Cancellation fees may vary for certain custom itineraries. Please consult your travel advisor.

  • Custom Asia Travel Cancellation:

In case of cancellations due to unforeseen factors (e.g., terrorism, natural disasters), you may transfer payments to a later date or receive a refund (minus bank transfer fees or third-party charges). Refunds will exclude any unrecoverable costs.
Important: We are not responsible for incidental expenses—travel insurance is strongly recommended for such situations.

Absolutely! Our tours are fully customizable, and we are happy to help you extend your trip or add extra days to your itinerary. Whether you want to explore additional destinations, include more activities, or simply enjoy some leisure time, we can tailor the itinerary to suit your preferences.

Simply let us know your ideas or travel goals, and our travel experts will work with you to create a seamless and enjoyable extension to your journey.

Absolutely! At Custom Asia Travel, we specialize in private tours, and solo travelers are always welcome. Your journey will be tailored entirely to your interests, preferences, and pace, ensuring a personalized and enriching experience.

As a solo traveler, a single supplement fee may apply for accommodations, but we’ll work with you to find the best options that match your needs and budget. Let us know your travel goals, and we’ll craft a private itinerary for an unforgettable solo adventure!

Pricing idea:
$2,700

Request a quote for this trip

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Travel Date

Pricing Notes

The above price is based on a private tour (Group of 2). It's more reasonable with bigger group size

Want to read it late?

Download this tour's PDF brochure and start tour planning offline

FAQS

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.

This suggested itinerary does not specify exact accommodations as we aim to remain flexible and cater to your preferences. However, in our initial proposal, we will include suggested types of accommodations for each day, carefully chosen to enhance your experience. If you have specific preferences or would like alternative options, we’re happy to adjust accordingly and provide professional recommendations to ensure your stay is exactly as you envision.

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.

The itinerary you see above is a suggested program, designed as a starting point for your travel planning. This is not a fixed departure tour but a fully personalized and private experience tailored to your preferences. As a result, prices, services, and details may vary to suit your unique needs.

To process, simply fill out the request form on the right side of the page with your basic information and travel preferences. Once we receive your request, one of our travel experts will contact you directly to discuss your ideas and finalize the details. This ensures everything is clear and customized to your satisfaction before you make your final decision to book with us.

At Custom Asia Travel, we strive to make the payment process smooth and transparent. Once you confirm your travel itinerary with us, we require a deposit to secure your booking. The deposit amount typically from 30% of the total trip cost, depending on the complexity and services involved in your itinerary.

The remaining balance is usually due 60 days before your trip's start date. If your booking is made close to the departure date (within 60 days), full payment may be required at the time of confirmation.

Payments can be made by cash, credit card (MasterCard, Visa), or wire transfer, unless otherwise agreed by your travel agent. Please note that international transfer fees or credit card processing fees may apply and are the responsibility of the traveler.

We will provide detailed payment instructions and ensure clear communication throughout the process. Should you have any specific concerns or requests, our team will be happy to assist.

More detail please view our booking terms & condition

  • Traveler Cancellation:

30% non-refundable deposit upon confirmation.
60-46 days before arrival: 50% penalty.
45-31 days before arrival: 75% penalty.
30 days or less before arrival: 100% penalty.
Note: Cancellation fees may vary for certain custom itineraries. Please consult your travel advisor.

  • Custom Asia Travel Cancellation:

In case of cancellations due to unforeseen factors (e.g., terrorism, natural disasters), you may transfer payments to a later date or receive a refund (minus bank transfer fees or third-party charges). Refunds will exclude any unrecoverable costs.
Important: We are not responsible for incidental expenses—travel insurance is strongly recommended for such situations.

Absolutely! Our tours are fully customizable, and we are happy to help you extend your trip or add extra days to your itinerary. Whether you want to explore additional destinations, include more activities, or simply enjoy some leisure time, we can tailor the itinerary to suit your preferences.

Simply let us know your ideas or travel goals, and our travel experts will work with you to create a seamless and enjoyable extension to your journey.

Absolutely! At Custom Asia Travel, we specialize in private tours, and solo travelers are always welcome. Your journey will be tailored entirely to your interests, preferences, and pace, ensuring a personalized and enriching experience.

As a solo traveler, a single supplement fee may apply for accommodations, but we’ll work with you to find the best options that match your needs and budget. Let us know your travel goals, and we’ll craft a private itinerary for an unforgettable solo adventure!

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