Pu Luong & Halong Bay

fter 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 fees/ Breakfast, Lunch/ Hotel accommodation

Your tour departs from Hanoi at 8:00 a.m., where a scenic drive through the countryside will gradually transition you from the bustling cityscape to the serene rural landscapes of Hoa Binh province. Along the way, you’ll enjoy plenty of picturesque photo opportunities before reaching Lac Village in Mai Chau Valley around noon.

Upon arrival, savor a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local stilt house, immersing yourself in the flavors and culture of the region. After lunch, continue your journey deeper into Mai Chau Valley, heading toward the stunning Pu Luong Nature Reserve.

As the road narrows, leave the car behind and set off on foot along a charming country backroad that winds down into the valley. Crossing a shallow river brings you to Ban Hang, a tranquil village and the destination for your first homestay of the trek. Here, you’ll be welcomed by a local Thai family, where you can refresh and relax before enjoying a traditional dinner, sharing stories and learning more about the culture of this warm and hospitable ethnic minority community.

Overnight in Pu Luong
Inclusions: Private a.c transfer/ Tour guide/ Entrance fees/ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner/ Hotel accommodation

Awaken to the gentle sounds of village life as roosters crow and livestock stir. After a hearty breakfast, bid farewell to your host family and prepare for a memorable day of trekking. Leaving the village’s rice paddies behind, you’ll cross a shallow river, entering a lush valley that narrows into a jungle-lined ravine. Emerging from the forest, the landscape opens up to reveal expansive terraced rice fields in the neighboring community, creating stunning views at every turn.

Lunch break at a local restaurant. Energized, continue trekking along a wider path that leads to Kho Muong Village. Tucked between towering karst limestone mountains, this village is among the most beautiful settings on the journey. Here, you’ll experience another warm homestay in a traditional White Thai stilt house. In the evening, take an optional visit to a nearby limestone cave before settling in for the night in this peaceful village home.

(Tonight accommodation alternative could be at a boutique resort)

Overnight in Pu Luong
Inclusions: Private a.c transfer/ Tour guide/ Entrance fees/ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner/ Hotel accommodation

After breakfast at the house, say goodbye to your host family and set off on your final trek of the journey. Today’s walk is a gentle descent through the lush landscapes of the nature reserve, leading you down a wide-open valley. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains, dense forests, and scenic farms.

By midday, you'll arrive at the quaint town of Pho Doan, where your private transport will be waiting for you. After a delicious lunch, continue your journey back to Hanoi, but not before making a stop to visit the traditional bamboo water wheel systems along the way. This unique and fascinating sight offers insight into local farming practices and the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Continue the drive to Hanoi, where you will arrive in the evening. Your driver will drop you off at your hotel. Overnight in Hanoi

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

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 Hanoi
Inclusions: Cruise's shuttle bus/ Cruise's in-house tour guide/ Cruise package/ Breakfast, lunch, dinner/ En-suite cabin on the boat.

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. After disembarking from the cruise, you will be transferred back to Hanoi. Check back into your hotel. Spend the remainder of the day in Hanoi doing your own things.

Overnight in Hanoi
Inclusions: Cruise's shuttle bus & Private airport transfers/ Cruise's in-house tour guide/ Breakfast, brunch/ 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.

Until next time!
Inclusions: Private airport transfers/ Breakfast