Northern Vietnam Odyssey

Departing from Hanoi at 7:30 a.m., our journey southward leads to Ninh Binh province. Following National Highway No1, the scenic drive unveils the picturesque countryside with its lush rice fields and quaint villages. Arriving around 10:00 a.m. at Tam Coc boat operation area, embark on a 2-hour sampan ride along a tranquil river, navigating through towering limestone mountains and cavernous caves adorned with stunning stalactites. Referred to as the "Inland Halong Bay," the landscape captivates with its dramatic beauty.

Afterward, indulge in local specialties for lunch at a nearby restaurant before transfering to Hang Mua for a hike of 500 steps to the summit of Ngoa Long Mountain, boasting a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the karst landscape. After enjoying the view and taking photographs, get downhill and make your way back to Hanoi to finish the day!

Overnight in Hanoi
Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Tour guide/ Entrance fees/ Boat ride/ Breakfast, Lunch/ Hotel accommodation

Early in the morning (around 7:30 a.m.), you'll be picked up from your hotel in Hanoi. Embark on a scenic journey to Sapa via the HW Noi Bai – Lao Cai, the longest highway in Vietnam. As you travel from the Red River Delta through the midland to Lao Cai province, soak in the picturesque landscapes. Upon reaching Sapa around noon, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Afterward, transfer to the trekking point in Sa Xeng Village, pausing along the way to capture photos of the stunning Muong Hoa Valley. Begin your afternoon trek from Hau Thao, winding along a small back road through the picturesque valley. The mostly downhill trek offers views of rice terraced fields and passes through several villages.

Conclude the trek and return to Sapa town, where you'll check into your hotel for the night. Dinner is not included, giving you the freedom to explore dining options on your own.

Overnight in Sapa
Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Tour guide/ Entrance fees/ Breakfast, Lunch/ Hotel accommodation

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, at 8:30 a.m., you'll be picked up and driven by car to the trekking point at Y Ling Ho Village, located in the picturesque Muong Hoa Valley. Muong Hoa is renowned as the largest valley in the Sapa region, adorned with lush rice terraces and a rocky riverbed. The trek begins with a gentle slope into the valley, offering stunning views of the terraced fields, a highlight of the day. After crossing the river via a small suspension bridge, the trek continues uphill, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience with breathtaking views over the valley.

Conclude the trek at Lao Chai Village, where your private vehicle awaits. As you journey back, marvel at the beauty of Muong Hoa Valley. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant along the way. In the afternoon, return to Hanoi, arriving between 5:30 a.m. and 6:30 a.m.

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

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/ Hotel accommodation

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 Vietnam Highlights journey on a high note.

Overnight in Halong Bay
Inclusions: shuttle bus/ Cruise's in-house guide/ Cruise package/ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner/ Private cabin on boat

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 make your way onward to the airport for your international flight home.
Inclusions: Cruise's shuttle bus & Private airport transfers/ Cruise's in-house tour guide/Brunch