Hanoi (Welcome to Hanoi, walking tour in the Old Quarter)

Old Quarter - Upon arriving at Noi Bai Airport, a guide and driver will warmly welcome you at the pickup lobby. Enjoy a scenic 45-minute drive to the heart of Hanoi, crossing the Red River, where you can admire the city’s unique architecture and its famously lively traffic.

Continue the day with a walking tour. Begin at a small pagoda named Ba Da, quietly nestled in a small alley just steps from the Hanoi Great Cathedral, built during the French colonial era in the 19th century. The tour guide will also lead you through typical Hanoi streets such as Lan Ong Street, known for traditional medicine, and Lo Ren Street, famous for metalwork. Stop to visit the Dong Xuan central market, the largest in Hanoi. Continue walking to the vibrant area known for nightlife and street food, Ta Hien Street, where you can experience the lively streets filled with amazing local foods and drinks. Sampling some will provide an unforgettable experience. Conclude the tour at your hotel.

Hanoi (Exploring culture & education at Van Mieu, museum of ethnology, visiting French Quarter and discovering Old town)

Temple of Literature & National University - 9:00 AM: The tour guide will pick you up for a visit to The Temple of Literature, built under the Ly dynasty in the 11th century to honor Confucius and educate Royal children. Enjoy a stroll in the garden to the city’s symbol, Khue Van Cac. Then, visit the World Heritage “stone steles,” which display the names of outstanding students. Continue exploring Quoc Tu Giam, considered Vietnam’s first national university.

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology - The next stop is the Ethnology Museum (closed every Monday), offering deep insights into Vietnamese culture through traditional costumes, tools, musical instruments, and traditional houses of various ethnic groups. It takes about two hours to fully explore this fascinating museum.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum - In the afternoon, visit The French Quarter, a “little Paris” in Hanoi with tree-lined boulevards, government offices, and a large square. Visit (outside) Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum before enjoying a leisurely walk in the botanical gardens to see the Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts, where he lived and worked.

One Pillar Pagoda - Head to the unique One-Pillar Pagoda, one of the city’s symbols. Exploring this complex takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on the number of travelers.

Hanoi - Ha Giang (Scenic driving route, trekking via Me – Lup – Tha villages)

Hàm Yên District - 8:00 AM: Depart from your hotel in Hanoi to Ha Giang via the highway to Phu Tho. Stop to visit the Dao village in Ham Yen, Tuyen Quang. Discover the houses on stilts, a typical style of ethnic groups in this hilly region.

Thon Tha Village - Arrive in Ha Giang in the mid-afternoon and begin a trek to the Me – Lup – Tha villages. These villages, known for their serene beauty, consist of hundreds of houses on wooden stilts covered by palm leaves. In front of the houses, small ponds are used for raising fish and cultivating water hyacinths for pigs. The villagers’ warm smiles reflect their legendary hospitality. Visit a typical house to discover the local daily life. Arrive in Tha Village, a village on palm hills with rice fields, where you can rest in tranquility.

Finally, check into your accommodation and enjoy free time to explore the mountain’s daily life rhythm before sunset.

Ha Giang - Dong Van (Visiting Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, Twin Fairy mountain, ethnic houses, H’mong King’s Palace)

Quan Ba Heaven Gate - 8:00 AM: Travel to Dong Van, enjoying the magical landscapes along the route. Before reaching the Quan Ba pass, stop to visit a village of Bo Y people in Quyet Tien Commune. Originating from China, the Bo Y is a small community of 2000 people living in the mountainous north. Stop at the Quan Ba pass for a short break to admire Quan Ba town with the famous Twin Fairy Mountain (Nui Co Tien).

Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark - Continue driving to the Limestone rock plateau zone, often compared to a mountainous Halong Bay. This majestic natural treasure is listed in the World Geological Park book. On the way, discover “Nha Trinh Tuong” (a special type of house) by walking to Lung Hoa Village. This is a typical house of the Hmong people, built on sticky ground.

Dinh Vua Meo - Next, visit the Palace of the H’mong King (Dinh Vua Meo). Dating back 100 years, the regions of Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Dong Van, and Meo Vac formed an autonomous zone with their own king. They cultivated poppies, and their economy was based on the opium trade with China. Arrive in Dong Van, check into accommodation, and relax.

Dong Van - Bao Lac (Crossing spectacular Ma Pi Leng pass to Bao Lac, visit to villages of Lo Lo & H’mong people)

Ma Pi Leng Pass - After breakfast at the hotel, set off from Dong Van toward Meo Vac, crossing the stunning Ma Pi Leng Pass. Here, you’ll be captivated by breathtaking views of limestone mountains, the winding Nho Que River, and traditional H’mong villages nestled along the slopes.

Bao Lac - Continue to Bao Lac, a region renowned for the Black Lo Lo ethnic community. The area gained prominence through the French documentary “The Journey into Unknown Land,” filmed in Khuoi Khon village—just 9 km from Bao Lac town—by rugby player Frédéric Michalak. Enjoy lunch in Bao Lac town before heading to Coc Xa village in Na Van commune. This Lo Lo village retains a more authentic charm compared to Khuoi Khon, which has become a popular tourist spot since the documentary’s release. Here, stroll through rice fields and scenic trails, visit local homes, and engage in meaningful exchanges with the residents, gaining a deeper understanding of their way of life and traditions.

Later, return to town, where you’ll stay overnight in a local hotel.

Bao Lac - Cao Bang (Visiting the hill village of San Chi ethnic people, transfer to Cao Bang)

Khau Coc Cha Mountain Pass - Set off for Cao Bang, traveling along National Road 4A. Along the way, enjoy stunning landscapes featuring limestone mountains, blue rivers, and beautiful rice fields sprawled across picturesque valleys.

The journey will take you through the Khau Coc Cha Pass. Although it stretches just 2.5 kilometers, this pass boasts a remarkable steep slope with 15 levels and 14 sharp bends.

Pac Bo Cave - The final destination for the day will be Pac Bo Cave, a significant historical site set in a captivating location. This is where President Ho Chi Minh lived for seven weeks in February and March of 1941 after returning to Vietnam from 30 years of exile.

Finally, arrive in Cao Bang city and check into a cozy local hotel.

Cao Bang (Travel to Vietnam’s most beautiful waterfall - Ban Gioc, explore Nguom Ngao cave, visiting Nung group village)

Ban Gioc Waterfall - Detian Falls - Depart from your hotel to Ban Gioc waterfall located on the border between Vietnam and China. It is 30m in height and 208m in width and is the most beautiful waterfall in Vietnam. After 2 hours of driving through the magical limestone region, you will arrive at Ban Gioc waterfall and be amazed by this beautiful natural masterpiece.

Nguom Ngao Cave - In the afternoon, transfer to Nguom Ngao cave, reached by walking a hundred steps. The cave is located in the maize valley and is 2km in length. It is filled with incredible stalactites and stalagmites. It was a shelter for thousands of local people during the Vietnam/China border war.

Phuc Sen Forging Village - On the way to Cao Bang, visit Phuc Sen, a blacksmith village, where you will have an opportunity to burn your name into your souvenir knife. You will be one of just a few travelers who spend a night in the village. The comfort is limited; however, you will enjoy the friendly atmosphere and the legendary hospitality of the Nung ethnic group and their authentic lifestyle. Have dinner and stay overnight in a homestay.

Cao Bang - Ba Be (Journey with stunning views, trekking to Nung village, transfer to Ba Be)

Phia Thap Village homestay - In the morning, depart from your homestay for a 2-hour trek to Nung village. Discover the craft villages specializing in the manufacture of paper and incense sticks. The landscape of rice paddies, limestone peaks, and the Nung ethnic group’s delightful hospitality will astonish you. According to clients, this is one of the itineraries that provided the most wonder.

Pac Ngoi - In the Canh Phung Tren village, meet the driver for a transfer to Ba Be. On the way, enjoy the magnificent landscape of villages nestled in the mountain’s flank. Stop to meet the natives and take photos wherever possible. Arrive in Ba Be in the afternoon. Visit Pac Ngoi village, a typical village of Tay people.

Ba Be (Relaxing boat trip to explore Puong Cave, Dau Dang waterfall)

Ba Be - Hanoi (Cycling in Ba Be National Park, visiting Hua Ma cave, transfer to Hanoi)

Ba Be National Park - In the morning, cycle through several ethnic Tay villages. Follow the path along the river to Hua Ma cave (5km from the village), an attractive place with amazing formations of stalactites and stalagmites. Return to Pac Ngoi village at 11:00 am and meet the driver for a transfer to Hanoi.

Optional: If time permits and you are active, extend to Silver waterfall (4km more from Hua Ma cave).

Arrive in Hanoi in the late afternoon. Check in at your hotel and enjoy some free time after the mountain getaway.

Hanoi - Bai Tu Long Bay (Cruising in Bai Tu Long bay, swimming & sunbathing at beautiful beaches)

Bai Tu Long Bay - 8:00 AM: Pick up at your hotel (in the Hanoi Old Quarter). Enjoy a three-hour drive from Hanoi to Bai Tu Long Bay. The journey will pass through a series of villages and rice fields in the Red River Delta. Stop for a drink and restroom break. Continue driving, arriving at the harbor around noon, and receive a warm welcome at the cruise reception.

07:30 – 8:30: The driver will pick you up at your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter (for private transfer) or at the Shuttle Bus stop (for shared transfer). Head to Halong city.

12:15: Arrive at Sunworld Harbor, where you’ll have a short time to relax before boarding the Garden Bay Classic Cruise.

12:30: Transfer to Garden Bay Classic Cruise Boat by tender (5-10 minutes). Enjoy a warm welcome drink, listen to a safety briefing, then check into your cabin.

13:00: Savor a delicious Vietnamese Set Menu while the boat cruises leisurely to the heart of Bai Tu Long Bay, Cap La area.

Bai Tu Long Bay - 15:30: Embark on a kayaking adventure to discover the breathtaking natural scenery of limestone islands and islets. You can also indulge in swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.

17:30: Join the Sunset Party on the Sundeck while the boat cruises to the Cong Do area to anchor for the night (Happy Hour offer from 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm).

18:30: Participate in a cooking class where you can learn how to cook traditional Vietnamese cuisines.

19:30: Indulge in a sumptuous BBQ dinner on the Sundeck (not available until October).

21:00: Free time to relax on the Sundeck or try your luck with squid fishing. Board games are also available.

Bai Tu Long Bay - Hanoi (Discovering the charming Vung Vieng fishing village, unique cruising route, getting back Hanoi)

Vung Vieng Fishing Village - 06:30: Wake up early in the morning for Tai Chi exercise.

07:00: Enjoy a light breakfast with Western styles while the boat cruises toward the most beautiful fishing village in Ha Long Bay.

07:30: Transfer to Vung Vieng Fishing Village by tender.

08:00: Ride on the rowing boat (rowed by the local fisherman) to explore the Vung Vieng fishing village and learn about the local fishing life.

09:00: Return to the main boat for the cruise back to the harbor by a different route.

09:30: Check out.

Noi Bai International Airport - 10:00: Enjoy lunch onboard (Fusion style).

11:00: Disembark at Sunworld Harbor. The driver will pick you up at the port and bring you back to Hanoi. Expected arrival time in Hanoi is about 3:00 PM.

Welcome by the driver at the harbor, then enjoy the journey back to Hanoi. Take a rest midway. Drop off at your hotel (in the Hanoi Old Quarter).

The driver will pick you up from the lobby of your hotel in Hanoi and take you to Noi Bai Airport. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes.

• Bike: Ba Be
• Selected Accommodations with daily breakfast
• Local experienced tour guide following itinerary
• Lunch
• All Fees and Taxes
• Dinner
• Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Halong
• Leisure: Water puppet, Swimming, Morning Tai Chi
• Breakfast
• Cruise: Garden Bay Cruise - 2D1N

• International flight from/to your country
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses
• Tipping and Gratuities
• Other not mentioned in the program

Embark on an extraordinary adventure through Northeast Vietnam and awaken your inner explorer! Begin in the enchanting city of Hanoi and journey into a realm of rich cultures, where you’ll meet the friendly Dzao, Bo Y, H’mong, Black Lo Lo, San Chi, Tay, and Nung communities. Hike through awe-inspiring mountain landscapes, cycle past breathtaking views, and sail on peaceful waters. Explore the striking Ha Giang karst plateau, witness the magnificent Ban Gioc waterfall that straddles borders, and enjoy the serene beauty of Ba Be National Park. Experience local life with genuine homestay accommodations, and conclude your journey with a luxurious overnight cruise among the iconic limestone karsts of Halong Bay. This is not just a tour; it’s an opportunity to leave your mark on the heart of Vietnam.

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.