Best of North Vietnam – 7 days

Today, we will dedicate a full day to exploring the city. Our journey begins with a visit to President Ho Chi Minh's mausoleum and residence. Adjacent to it is the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, renowned for its unique architecture. After exploring the President's complex, our next stop is the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu). Although there are several Van Mieu sites across Vietnam, the most notable and prestigious one is located in Hanoi. It served as Vietnam's first university.

Following lunch at a local restaurant, we proceed to the Museum of Ethnology. This outstanding museum showcases ethnic costumes from various minorities in Vietnam. It houses relics, tools, and even life-size replicas of their homes and structures.

Return to the hotel and enjoy free time until the transfer to the train station for the overnight journey to Lao Cai (for Sapa). A driver will pick you up at your hotel in Hanoi around 21:00 hrs, transferring you to Hanoi train station. The overnight train departs at approximately 22:00 hrs, and you will share sleeping compartments (2 lower and 2 upper berths per compartment) with other passengers.

Note*:

Late checkout at the hotel is not included.

Our tour guide will not accompany you during the train journey.

Train schedule is subject to change depending on availability.

Private compartments are available upon request at an additional cost.

Train journeys offer a unique local experience, and cabins are shared with other passengers unless a private cabin is requested and paid for (with a supplement). Restrooms are located at either end of the carriages.

Accommodation: Overnight train to Sapa

Sa Pa stands as a serene mountain town, boasting a rich tapestry of ethnic minority communities. The majority of these communities engage in farming on the terraced slopes, as much of the land is characterized by its mountainous terrain. Rice and corn serve as their primary sustenance. The labor-intensive nature of rice cultivation underscores the daily struggle for survival. The distinctive climate in Sapa significantly influences the residents, with subtropical summers, temperate winters, and 160 misty days annually impacting agricultural yields and health.

05:30 ~ 06:00: Arrival at Lao Cai Train Station. You will be greeted at the train station and transferred to Sapa. Early check-in is possible upon room availability (additional charges may apply). Enjoy breakfast and take some time to relax before embarking on our full-day tour.

9:30 am: Meet your local guide and commence a 6 km trek, descending to the southeast of Sapa along the Muong Hoa valley to reach Y Linh Ho village of the Black H'mong. Continue with a 2 km trek to Lao Chai village, passing through terraced rice fields, and then proceed to Ta Van village of the Dzay minority. Along the way, gain insights into local agriculture practices and daily lifestyles. Lunch will be hosted by a local family, providing a valuable opportunity to learn about their unique house architecture, reflecting their daily routines and distinct customs. Return to Sapa by jeep or motorbike.

Accommodation: Hotel in Sapa

08:30: Hotel pickup marks the beginning of our journey. Embark on a scenic walk towards the southwest of Sapa, covering approximately 4 km, to reach Cat Cat village, home to the Black H'mong ethnic group. Take in the beauty of a mesmerizing waterfall and explore the remnants of a hydroelectric power station dating back to the French colonial era in Vietnam. Enjoy a delightful picnic lunch along the riverbank, followed by a 6 km trek to Sin Chai village nestled at the base of Fansipan Mountain, often referred to as the "Roof of Vietnam and Indochina." Marvel at the vast and breathtaking landscapes before ascending on the return journey to Sapa.

Afterward, you have free time to explore the town until the bus transfer to Hanoi, departing at 3:00 pm. Anticipate arrival in Hanoi around 9:00 pm.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

08:00: Your hotel in Hanoi is the starting point for your adventure. Embark on a scenic journey to Halong City, weaving through picturesque paddy fields in the Red River Delta.

10:00: Take a refreshing break during the journey.

12:00: Arrive at Tuan Chau wharf, a perfect opportunity for a break and photography session.

12:30: Board the cruise, where a welcome drink awaits.

13:00: Relish lunch while cruising through the captivating bay.

15:30: Explore the fascinating Cua Van fishing village. This village is a peaceful enclave devoid of busy roads, electric lights, and towering buildings. Immerse yourself in the traditional culture and customs of the fishermen.

16:30: Enjoy kayaking or swimming, weather permitting.

17:00: Return to the cruise and continue the journey.

19:00: Savor a delightful dinner on board.

21:00: Utilize some leisure time for conversations at the bar or partake in night fishing.

Note: The specific itinerary and onboard activities may vary based on your chosen boat. Please refer to the boat options in the Hotel Inclusions.

Accommodation: Overnight on board

07:00: Indulge in a serving of coffee and tea.

08:00: Resume the enchanting cruise.

08:15: Explore the magnificent Sung Sot Cave.

09:00: Check out and relish a breathtaking cruise through Halong Bay, passing notable landmarks such as Dinh Huong Island, fishing villages, Ga Choi Island, Dog Island, and Sail Island.

09:30: Delight in a buffet brunch (a combination of breakfast and lunch) while cruising back to the pier.

11:30: Reach the pier, bidding farewell to the crew.

12:00: Depart from Halong and return to Hanoi. Anticipate arrival in Hanoi at around 17:00.

Note: The specific itinerary and onboard activities may vary based on your chosen boat. Please refer to the boat options in the Hotel Inclusions.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

Enjoy some leisure time until our transfer service arrives at your hotel to take you to Noi Bai International Airport for your departure flight. This marks the conclusion of your journey.

Note: Depending on your flight schedule, our airport transfer will be arranged accordingly, allowing for 2.5 hours for domestic flights and 3.5 hours for international flights.

Accommodation: Not Applicable