Arrival in Hanoi

Hanoi - Welcome to Hanoi! Upon landing at Noi Bai International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle to your hotel in the city center (standard check-in time is after 14:00, and any early check-in surcharge is not included).

The remainder of the day is set aside for relaxation after your long journey.

Feel free to explore the nearby area independently to gain your first impressions of Vietnam’s capital. If you require assistance or wish to start exploring the city, your tour guide is available upon request.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Hanoi – Full Day City Tour – Water Puppet Show

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum - After breakfast, meet your guide for a full-day tour of Hanoi, the elegant and historic capital of Vietnam.

The tour begins at the Ho Chi Minh Complex, starting with the Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh, located at Ba Dinh Square – the final resting place of Vietnam’s beloved leader. (Note: The mausoleum is open Tuesday to Thursday and weekends from 08:00 to 11:00.)

Next, visit the Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house, a modest wooden residence built as a birthday gift in 1958, symbolizing his simple lifestyle and dedication to the nation.

Nearby is the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, built in 1049 by King Ly Thai Tong after a vision of the Goddess of Mercy seated on a lotus flower. Though destroyed by the French in 1954, it was faithfully reconstructed in 1955.

Temple of Literature & National University - Continue with a visit to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university, dating back to 1070. This beautiful and historic site offers insights into Vietnam’s scholarly past.

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology - In the afternoon, discover the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups through both indoor exhibitions and a fascinating outdoor display of traditional houses. (Note: The museum is closed on Mondays.)

Thang Long Water Puppet - In the evening, sit back and experience the magic of a Water Puppet Show at the renowned Thang Long Theatre, where folklore and legends come to life through masterful puppetry performed over water — a true cultural gem of northern Vietnam.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Hoa Lu – Tam Coc

Ninh Binh - After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion to Ninh Binh, the former capital of Vietnam before Hanoi rose to prominence in the 11th century. This region is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and historical significance, including Tam Coc Caves and the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, home to the age-old temples honoring King Dinh and King Le, rulers from the 10th century.

Tam Coc - Begin your visit with a peaceful boat ride along the Ngo Dong River in Tam Coc, where dramatic limestone karsts rise sharply from lush rice paddies, evoking comparisons to both Guilin in China and Halong Bay — hence the nickname “Halong Bay on land.”

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital - Continue your journey through history with a visit to Hoa Lu, the site of the royal palaces during the Dinh and Le dynasties. Here, you’ll explore ancient temples nestled under shady canopies, notable for their intricate wooden carvings and rich historical atmosphere.

Return to Hanoi in the late afternoon.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Hanoi – Ha Long Bay

Halong Bay - After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a scenic 3-hour drive through the fertile landscapes of the Red River Delta en route to Ha Long City. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994, Ha Long Bay is renowned for its surreal seascape dotted with over 1,600 limestone karsts and islets rising dramatically from emerald waters.

Upon arrival, board a wooden cruise boat and begin an unforgettable journey through this breathtaking bay. As you cruise past towering cliffs and floating villages, enjoy a freshly prepared seafood lunch on board. In the afternoon, take time to swim in the crystal-clear water and explore some of the bay’s fascinating limestone caves.

As the sun sets, the boat will anchor near a remote island, offering a serene atmosphere for relaxation. A delicious dinner will be served on board, followed by free time to stargaze or try your hand at night fishing.

Overnight on board in Ha Long Bay.

Ha Long Bay – Hanoi

Halong Bay - Wake up to the tranquil beauty of the bay and enjoy the peaceful moments of sunrise over the water, followed by breakfast on board. The morning is reserved for further cruising to lesser-known corners of the bay, with opportunities for more swimming or simply soaking in the scenery.

Around midday, return to the main harbor where your driver awaits to transfer you back to Hanoi for overnight.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Hanoi – Flight to Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang - After breakfast, you will be transferred by the driver to the airport for your flight to Luang Prabang.

Upon arrival at Luang Prabang international airport, you will be welcomed by a local guide and driver, then transferred to your hotel. Check-in at the hotel (~13:30-14:00) and enjoy leisure time.

Meals on your own. Overnight in hotel.

Luang Prabang – City Tour

Luang Prabang - Start your day early with an optional opportunity to witness or participate in the serene almsgiving ritual, where saffron-robed monks collect offerings from locals. This deeply spiritual tradition is unique to Laos, the only Buddhist country where this sacred procession remains widely practiced.

Luang Prabang - Afterward, visit the bustling morning market before returning to your hotel for breakfast.

Your cultural journey continues with a visit to Wat Visoun, home to the impressive That Makmo Stupa, whose rounded dome reflects Sinhalese architectural influence. Proceed to Wat Aham, and then on to Wat Xieng Thong, the city’s most iconic temple, beautifully situated at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers.

Next, explore Wat Sene Souk Haram, known as the “Temple of 100,000 Treasures.” This temple stands out for its brilliant ochre facade adorned with glittering gold.

Luang Prabang - In the afternoon, visit the former Royal Palace, now the National Museum, followed by Wat Mai, renowned for its exquisite golden bas-reliefs. During the Lao New Year (Pimai), this temple becomes especially significant as it temporarily houses the sacred Prabang Buddha image.

The evening is yours to explore the vibrant Luang Prabang night market, where you can shop for handicrafts and sample local street food.

Meals on your own. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Luang Prabang – Pak Ou Cave – Kuang Si Waterfalls

Pak Ou Caves - After breakfast, transfer to the pier and board a traditional long-tail boat for a scenic upstream cruise along the mighty Mekong River. Marvel at the tranquil mountain scenery and glimpse into the peaceful rhythms of rural life along the banks.

Your destination is the Pak Ou Caves, located at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Ou Rivers. These two sacred grottoes are filled with hundreds of ancient Buddha statues, making them an important pilgrimage site, particularly during the Lao New Year in mid-April.

Cruise back to Luang Prabang, stopping en route at Ban Xangkhong, a traditional weaving village. Here, you’ll have a hands-on opportunity to try weaving on wooden looms under the guidance of local artisans.

Kuang Si Falls - In the afternoon, enjoy a picturesque drive through lush rice paddies and farmland to reach the breathtaking Kuang Si Waterfall. Stroll along nature trails to explore the Bear Rescue Center and admire the vibrant orchids scattered throughout the park. The waterfalls descend dramatically over limestone formations, creating a series of turquoise pools ideal for photography or a refreshing dip.

Return to Luang Prabang in the late afternoon.

Meals on your own. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Luang Prabang – Departure

Luang Prabang - Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy free time until your transfer to the airport for your international flight.

End of services.

Note: The check-out time is at noon, and any surcharge for late check-out is not included.

• Accommodation in twin/double room with daily breakfast
• Entrance fees
• 02 bottles of mineral water per person per day on bus - on days of transfer and sightseeing only
• Lunch
• Dinner
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Breakfast
• 2 Days/1 Night cruise on board a cruise in Ha Long Bay (double/twin cabin on shared boat)

• Early check-in or late check-out
• International & Domestic flight tickets
• Meals (other than mentioned in the program)
• Additional transfer required due to any emergency situation
• Visa - as per country requirements
• Tips
• Travel insurance (we highly recommend that you purchase adequate insurance)
• Airport transfer surcharge for guide between 10:00 pm to 6:30 am is 15 USD/way.

Embark on an enchanting 9-day adventure through Vietnam and Laos, where cultural gems meet natural splendors. Start in Hanoi with a city tour and a traditional water puppet performance, followed by a cruise on the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay. Discover Ninh Binh’s ancient temples and tranquil rice fields before flying to Luang Prabang, the spiritual center of Laos. Explore sacred temples, observe the peaceful almsgiving ceremony, cruise the Mekong to Pak Ou Caves, and relax at the breathtaking Kuang Si Waterfalls. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking genuine experiences, historical richness, and scenic beauty across two distinct countries.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.