Scenic Northern Vietnam 10-day Private Tour

Overview

Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Vietnam's north on our 10-day Scenic Northern Vietnam tour. This private, meticulously crafted itinerary takes you on an unforgettable journey from the vibrant capital of Hanoi to the majestic limestone karsts of Ninh Binh and the awe-inspiring terraced fields of Sapa and Mu Cang Chai. Your adventure culminates with a serene cruise through the legendary Halong Bay. While our program is expertly curated, we specialize in tailor-made travel, so we'll customize any aspect to create your perfect journey.

Trip Map

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Highlight

Hanoi Highlights: Explore the vibrant capital, including the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and cultural landmarks.
Ninh Binh Excursion: Discover the stunning landscapes of Ninh Binh with a boat ride through limestone karsts and rice fields.
Sapa Adventure: Journey to the mountainous region of Sapa, known for its terraced rice fields and ethnic minority villages.
Mu Cang Chai Trek: Trek through breathtaking rice terraces in Mu Cang Chai, a UNESCO-listed site for its natural beauty.
Halong Bay Cruise: Experience the iconic Halong Bay with a scenic cruise among its dramatic limestone islands and crystal-clear waters.
Cultural Immersion: Interact with local communities, learn about their traditions, and enjoy authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

Detailed Itinerary

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DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN HANOI

Welcome to Vietnam! Upon your arrival at Noi Bai Airport, a private driver will pick you up and take you to your hotel in the center of Hanoi. After checking in, you can relax and get familiar with the city. Take a stroll around the neighborhood or enjoy the hotel's facilities. In the evening, explore Hanoi's culinary scene, walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, or simply unwind at the hotel. Get a good night's rest to prepare for your cycling adventures the next day.

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

DAY 2: HIGHLIGHTS OF HANOI

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/ Entrance fees/ Breakfast, Lunch/ Hotel accommodation

DAY 3: NINH BINH EXCURSION

8:00 AM: Get ready for an exciting day as we depart from your hotel in Hanoi and head to the charming province of Ninh Binh.

After 2 hour drive, we arrive in Ninh Binh and prepare for an enchanting experience at Tam Coc. Hop aboard a traditional sampan boat and let the local rowers guide you through the mesmerizing landscape. As you navigate the gentle waterways, you will pass through three tunnel-like caves, immersing yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you.

Noontime: Indulge in a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of authentic Vietnamese cuisine and replenishing your energy for the rest of the day's adventures.

In the afternoon, Get ready for a delightful bicycling adventure along scenic back roads. Pedal your way through the countryside, immersing yourself in the tranquility and beauty of the surroundings. Along the way, we'll make a stop at the captivating Thai Vi Temple, where you can learn about its historical and cultural significance.

Continue your cycling journey to Bich Dong Pagoda, a hidden gem nestled amidst picturesque landscapes. Explore the ancient pagoda and marvel at its intricate architecture, while enjoying the serene ambiance of the surroundings.

About 4:30, bid farewell to Ninh Binh and begin your drive back to Hanoi for the night.

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

DAY 4: HANOI - SAPA

After your breakfast at the hotel, embark on a comfortable drive to the breathtaking hills of Sapa. As you journey through the northern countryside, you'll be treated to picturesque views of lush mountains that rise and fall like waves. The final approach to Sapa offers a spectacular sight of rice terraces cascading down the mountain slopes, providing the main source of livelihood for ethnic villages across the region.

Upon arrival, check into your charming accommodation, which boasts bungalows with stunning views of the countryside.

In the afternoon, embark on a cultural expedition by hiking through the scenic Muong Hoa Valley. Accompanied by your guide, traverse the countryside on trails that wind between the golden rice terraces to reach hill tribe villages. Get a deeper insight into the culture and traditions of the Hmong people by visiting one of their families, an experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for rural Vietnam.

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

DAY 5: SAPA - MU CANG CHAI

Start your day with breakfast at your accommodation in Sapa before transferring to the Fansipan Mountain cable car station for a scenic ride to the top, where you'll enjoy lunch amidst breathtaking views. Following this, drive through the picturesque O Quy Ho Pass towards Mu Cang Chai, with possible photo stops along the way to capture the stunning landscapes. Arrive in Mu Cang Chai in the late afternoon, check into your accommodation, and relax for the night, ready for more adventures tomorrow.

Overnight in Mu Cang Chai
Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Tour guide/ Entrance fees/ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner/ Hotel accommodation

DAY 6: MU CANG CHAI TREK

Today, embark on an unforgettable adventure as we dedicate most of the day to a mesmerizing trek through the picturesque landscapes of Che Cu Nha to La Pan Tan, renowned as the most stunning part of the region for admiring the breathtaking rice terraced paddies. This scenic trek takes you along small paths and back roads, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. With each step, you'll be captivated by the intricate patterns of the terraced fields, sculpted into the hillsides like works of art. Along the way, enjoy a simple yet satisfying picnic lunch amidst the tranquil surroundings, providing a moment of respite to recharge before continuing your journey. As the afternoon unfolds, we'll conclude our trek and get picked up to return the accommodation for the second night. With over 10 kilometers of trekking obout 6 hours, this day promises to be filled with unforgettable moments and stunning vistas at every turn.

Overnight in Mu Cang Chai
Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Tour guide & way leader/ Entrance fees/ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner/ Hotel accommodation

DAY 7: MU CANG CHAI - HANOI

After breakfast, begin your return journey to Hanoi, stopping at Khau Pha Pass to admire rice terraced paddies and H'mong houses. Then, explore Tu Le's rice fields and Thai stilt houses on a short easy trek. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing the drive back to Hanoi, arriving early evening. Check into your hotel for the night and relax after a loop trip of exploration.

Overnight in Hanoi
Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Tour guide/ Entrance fees/ 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: The cruise's shuttle bus/ Cruise's in-house guide/ Cruise package (meals, private cabin, cruise activities)

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: Cruise's shuttle bus/ Cruise's in-house 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.

Until next time!

Overnight in Hanoi
Inclusions: Private a.c. 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.

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

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