Tour Code: OOD5A4N6X8CT
8 days
Specific Tour
1 person
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Embark on a captivating journey through northern Vietnam’s cultural and natural wonders. Discover Ninh Binh and Tam Coc’s serene beauty with limestone formations and vibrant rice fields. Explore the historic capital, cycle through charming villages, and navigate enchanting waterways.
Next, venture to Sapa, where time stands still amidst hill tribe communities and breathtaking mountains. Immerse yourself in their traditions and marvel at the lush surroundings.
The climax awaits at Halong Bay, where a luxurious overnight stay on a 4-star boat awaits. Enjoy island excursions, exquisite cuisine, swimming, sunbathing, and kayaking. It’s the perfect finale to our exploration of northern Vietnam’s rich culture and stunning landscapes.
And to top it off, join us for a delightful Hanoi street tour, immersing in the vibrant local food scene and savoring the tantalizing flavors of Vietnamese cuisine.
Join us for an unforgettable journey, showcasing the best of northern Vietnam’s cultural treasures and natural beauty!
Upon your arrival in Hanoi, you will be warmly greeted by your driver at the airport. Sit back and relax as you are transferred to your centrally located hotel for check-in. Take some time to unwind and enjoy the surroundings at your leisure. Distance: Hanoi Old Quarter center: 40km (~45 minutes drive) Embark on a delightful culinary walking tour through the vibrant streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter. Accompanied by an expert English-speaking local guide, you'll discover the rich intricacies and traditions of Vietnamese food culture. Gain fascinating insights into the historical background and ingredients of beloved northern dishes. As we wander through the bustling maze of the Old Quarter, our taste buds will be tantalized by the iconic Hanoi delicacy, Banh Cuon, at a local eatery. Marvel at the skilled chefs as they demonstrate the art of creating this delicious dish. Venturing further into the heart of the Old Quarter, we'll explore charming street stalls and peaceful residential lanes that have preserved the essence of Hanoi for over a millennium. Along the way, we'll stop at outdoor barbeque stalls to savor delectable grilled meats, vegetables, and bread cooked over hot coals, infusing them with a tantalizing smoky flavor. We'll then indulge in a traditional dessert, fresh fruit served in a cup with crushed ice and condensed milk, in a small alley where locals gather to enjoy this sweet treat. Next, your knowledgeable guide will lead you to a hidden gem, a secret street food restaurant, to experience Hanoi's top ten street foods, including Banh My Hanoi, Vietnamese Rice Wine, and the renowned Egg Coffee. This tucked-away café, nestled in the narrow streets of the Old Quarter, is a rare find. If coffee isn't your preference, a refreshing cold beer awaits you. After the tour, you are free to continue exploring the area or your guide will gladly assist you in returning to your hotel. Meals: Dinner or Lunch Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
Embark on an early morning adventure as we pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter at 7:40 AM. Our journey begins as we head towards the picturesque Tam Coc. Arriving at around 9:30 AM, we board a sampan boat to explore the enchanting three caves of Tam Coc. Afterward, we return to Tam Coc wharf and continue our exploration by bicycle, immersing ourselves in the charm of traditional villages and Tam Coc town. Indulge in a delightful buffet lunch featuring authentic Vietnamese cuisine at a local restaurant. Following our meal, we hop back into our luxury van and proceed to Hoa Lu, an ancient capital of Vietnam. Here, we visit the Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple, both dating back to the 10th century. Learn about the heroic histories of these two kings during the Chinese Wars. We also make a stop at Mua Cave, renowned for its captivating stories. Prepare to climb 500 stone steps and be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the countryside and Ngo Dong river. As the day winds down, we make our way back to Hanoi, with an estimated arrival between 6:30 PM and 7:00 PM. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
Embark on an exciting day as we pick you up from your hotel between 08:00 AM and 8:30 AM. Our journey to Mai Chau begins with a comfortable van ride, with a short break along the way to stretch your legs. Around midday, we arrive in Mai Chau and are welcomed with a refreshing drink. Indulge in a traditional lunch in the village, where vegetarian options are also available. In the afternoon, join a bicycle ride led by your knowledgeable tour guide. Witness farmers diligently working in the fields, observe locals skillfully weaving scarves, and explore the peaceful surrounding villages. Afterward, you'll have free time for leisure activities such as bicycling, walking, or shopping. As the late afternoon approaches, we make our way back to the accommodation. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: Communal stilt house or Valley View Bungalow
After a satisfying breakfast, join our local tour guide to explore the remote rural villages of Na Meo and Na Mo, immersing yourself in their unique culture and customs. Return to the homestay for a delicious lunch and check-out. Enjoy some free time for shopping and relaxation. At 15:00 – 15:30, bid farewell to the welcoming family as we board the bus for our return journey to Hanoi, which takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. Upon arrival in Hanoi, you will be dropped off at your hotel. Take advantage of the free time until you are picked up from your hotel and transferred to the train station for the night train to Lao Cai. Around 20:00 hrs, meet at your hotel in Hanoi and proceed to Hanoi train station. You will spend the night on the train in shared sleeping compartments, with 2 lower berths and 2 upper berths per compartment, sharing with other passengers. The train departs at approximately 21:15 hrs. Notes: Please note that our tour guide will not accompany you during the train journey. Train schedules are subject to change. Private compartments are available upon request for an additional fee. Train journeys offer an authentic local experience, with shared cabins and restroom facilities at either end of the carriages. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: Overnight on the train
Upon your early arrival at Lao Cai Station, we will pick you up and embark on a scenic uphill drive to Sapa in a shared mini van. After freshening up and enjoying breakfast at a local restaurant, take a leisurely walk around the charming town of Sapa. Visit the bustling Sapa market and the historic cathedral, where you can interact with the local ethnic minority groups, such as the Black H'mong and Red Zao, who proudly display their traditional colorful attire and sell their agricultural produce, handmade crafts, and souvenirs. Around 10:30 AM, return to our Sapa office and begin your exploration of the picturesque Muong Hoa Valley. Follow the main road south for approximately one hour before turning onto a footpath that leads downhill to Muong Hoa Valley. This section offers breathtaking views of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, and on clear days, you may catch a glimpse of Fansipan Peak. Cross the river via a suspension bridge and challenge yourself with an uphill trek to Y Linh Ho village, where you can observe the daily activities of the H'mong people. After a picnic lunch, continue your trek through hills and valleys for about two hours until you reach Lao Chai, a vibrant village inhabited by the H'mong people. Follow the riverbank to Ta Van village, home to the Zay people. Explore local homes, village schools, and immerse yourself in the cultural discoveries of the ethnic communities while enjoying the breathtaking scenery of the Muong Hoa Valley. Spend the night in a comfortable homestay in Ta Van village. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Homestay in Ta Van Village
After breakfast, leave Ta Van village and begin your trek uphill, passing captivating terraced rice fields and small H'mong hamlets. Traverse through a bamboo forest to reach a picturesque waterfall, where you can take a break and admire the magnificent scenery. Continue walking for another half an hour to reach Giang Ta Chai village, inhabited by the Red Zao people, situated atop a hill overlooking the Muong Hoa River. Immerse yourself in the village, make new friends with the Zao people, and experience their warm hospitality. Cross the river using another suspension bridge and trek uphill to Hau Thao village, where you can visit a local handicraft center. Here, H'mong and Zao women come together to exchange experiences and showcase their handicraft skills. Enjoy a late lunch near the handicraft center and take the opportunity to relax and interact with local schoolchildren and teachers. Later, a short drive will bring you back to Sapa Town. At around 15:00 - 15:30, our driver will pick you up for a 5-hour transfer back to Hanoi. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: Hotels in Hanoi
7:45 - 8:00 AM: Pick-up from your hotel and depart for Halong Bay. Upon arrival at Tuan Chau, transfer to the Aclass Opera Cruise via tender boat and enjoy a welcome drink. Explore the stunning beauty of Halong Bay and settle into your cabins. Indulge in a delicious Vietnamese Set Menu for lunch. Dragon Heart Cruise will take you to the most picturesque spots in the bay, including the famous islets. Visit the awe-inspiring Surprising Cave. Engage in kayaking and swimming at Titop Beach or simply relax on the cruise. Join a cooking class on the sundeck and savor a delectable Vietnamese dinner. In the evening, partake in karaoke or try your hand at squid fishing with the crew. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Cruise in Halong Bay Activities: Escape the city and immerse yourself in the captivating countryside as you head to the dock for an unforgettable Halong Bay adventure. Step aboard a traditional junk boat with its exquisite woodwork and friendly crew, and set sail into the emerald waters of the bay.
6:30 AM: Early risers can participate in a rejuvenating Tai Chi Le session on the sundeck. Savor the serene morning scenery of the bay while enjoying a cup of tea or coffee and a delicious breakfast. Around 8:00 AM, visit the magnificent Sung Sot Cave. Return to the cruise, check out of your room, and settle any outstanding bills at the reception. Enjoy a satisfying lunch before disembarking at the harbor by 11:30 AM. Arrive in Hanoi at approximately 4:30 PM, concluding your remarkable journey.
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