Fantastic Northern Vietnam Discovery

Day 1: Hanoi - Arrival

Welcome to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. Vibrant, inviting, and delightful – the city reveals itself with your first glimpse of scooters whizzing through the streets. Yet in contrast to the city’s modern tempo, the echoes of history still resonate in many architectural sites, reflecting the eras of dynasties and French influence.

No matter your flight schedule, our friendly guide and driver will warmly welcome you upon arrival and take you to your hotel in the city center. Once settling in, you will have a chance to explore Hanoi at your leisure. While no meals have been planned for today, why not fill your stomach with some local dishes? Did you know that Hanoi is the birthplace of ‘Pho’, the world’s favorite noodle soup? If your taste buds need direction, our guide can introduce to you the best Pho eateries in town.

Overnight in Hanoi

Day 2: Mai Chau & Pu Luong

Morning:
Get away from the crowded streets in Hanoi, we’ll have 3.5-hour car ride to the idyllic Mai Chau Valley. Surrounded by rolling forested hills rising from the valley floor, Mai Chau is a separate world where the sounds of nature replace the buzz of traffic and the fresh air fills our lungs. Upon arrival, the breathtaking panoramic views of verdant rice paddies will help you forget your travel fatigue.

Afternoon:
Mai Chau is a melting pot of diverse minority cultures. We can choose to have a cycling or walking tour along paved roads to the villages of Thai ethnic people. Engage with the locals at their long stilt houses to learn about their rural but peaceful lives, and discover their vibrant traditions and customs. Continue to Chieu Cave in which the climb up may be steep, but it’s worth it for the breathtaking view of Mai Chau that awaits you at the top. And the cave itself is a natural wonder, with striking stalactites and stalagmites that will leave you in awe. Along your way back, if you’re lucky, you might even encounter a peaceful herd of water buffalo returning from a day’s work in the fields. Afterwards, we will head to Pu Luong Nature Reserve and spend our night there.

Overnight in Pu Luong

Day 3: Pu Luong - Village encounter

Morning:
Surrounded by dirt but beautiful country roads, hiking is your ticket to discovering the stunning nature and culture of Pu Luong. Our first stop of today’s adventure is a far-flung ethnic village named Kho Muong, nestled between towering limestone cliffs and endless expanses of rice paddies. It’s a wonderful chance to witness rural life in action while soaking in the breathtaking countryside scenery.

Afternoon:
After getting some rest, we’ll continue on a downhill journey through lush valleys, offering a magnificent bird’s-eye view you won’t want to miss capturing on camera. Once you reach the bottom, you’ll visit Lan Village, renowned for its traditional art of brocade weaving. Afterwards, we’ll get on our car and return to Hanoi.

Overnight in Hanoi

Day 4: Ha Long Bay - Luxury cruise trip

Morning:
After breakfast, we’ll head to the airport for a seaplane to Ha Long Bay. In just half an hour, the UNESCO natural wonder unfolds its beauty right before your eyes. Upon arrival, a speedboat tender will be waiting to transfer you to your luxurious cruise. Once the captain sets sail, it’s time to savor a delicious lunch and feast your eyes with odd-shaped limestone pillars and hidden coves along the way.

Afternoon:
Reaching Cat Ba Island in Lan Ha Bay by our boat transfer, we will go through Cat Ba National Park to explore Trung Trang Cave and marvel at its magnificent stalactites and stalagmites. Get back on the boat and head to Tra Bau, where the cruise drops its anchor. Tra Bau is a tranquil area with emerald waters where you can enjoy a refreshing swim. When the sun sets, head back to the cruise for a breathtaking view from the top deck, followed by a traditional Vietnamese cooking class. Conclude the day with a delightful dinner and an overnight stay amidst the exotic landscape of Ha Long Bay. And for those craving even more fun, how about joining the cruise staff for midnight squid fishing? Who knows, we might just reel in some squid for a late-night party!

Overnight on cruise

Day 5: Lan Ha Bay - Ao Ech

Morning:
Waking up to the sunlight streaming through your windows, your day begins with a Tai-Chi session on deck and a warm breakfast after. Then, the cruise will transfer you to Ao Ech for some sightseeing thrills, including swimming and kayaking. Fun fact: this is the very spot where the Hollywood blockbuster movie ‘Kong: Skull Island’ was filmed! Afterwards, take a moment to unwind on deck and soak in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Lan Ha Bay as we cruise back to the shore.

Afternoon:
After settling in your city centre hotel, it’s time to explore Hanoi at your leisure! You can freely spend your afternoon visiting some highlights of the city, like the Temple of Literature, Ngoc Son Temple or Hoa Lo Prison.

Overnight in Hanoi

Day 6: Hanoi - Departure

Your journey across fantastic destinations in the north of Vietnam comes to its end. You’ll get the morning to yourself – no scheduled activities. Whenever you’re ready to go, our attentive driver will be ready to take you to the airport, ensuring a seamless transition for your departing flight. Until our paths cross again on your next adventure, safe travels!