Best of Northern Vietnam 6 days

Embark on a captivating journey just a few hours' drive from Hanoi, venturing deep into the scenic countryside of Vietnam. Explore Hoa Lu, the ancient capital during the Dinh and Le dynasties, before embarking on a tranquil sampan trip along the Tam Coc River. Often referred to as the 'Halong Bay on Land,' this area is renowned for its enchanting grottoes and limestone karst mountains.

Commence your day by departing from the hotel around 08:00 for a scenic 2-hour drive through the rural landscapes of northern Vietnam. Pause at Hoa Lu, where temples pay homage to Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang of the Dinh Dynasty (968-80) and Emperor Le Dai Hanh of the Le Dynasty (980-1009).

If time permits after exploring Hoa Lu, consider a half-hour walk up one of the neighboring limestone karst hills—an invigorating climb offering spectacular views. (Please note that a moderate level of physical fitness is required.)

Continue to Tam Coc Town, where a delightful Vietnamese-style lunch awaits. Along the journey, there will be ample opportunities to capture photographs of charming villages and picturesque landscapes.

For the adventurous souls, ascend to the 15th-century Bich Dong Pagoda on the nearby Ngu Nhac Mountain, consisting of three structures: Ha, Trung, and Thuong Pagodas (in ascending order).

Subsequently, board the bus as our driver escorts you back to Hanoi.

Gather at your Hanoi hotel around 20:00 hrs for a transfer to Hanoi train station. Prepare for an overnight train journey to Lao Cai, sharing sleeping compartments with fellow passengers (2 lower & 2 upper berths per compartment). The train departs at approximately 21:15 hrs.

Notes:

Our tour guide will not accompany you during the train trip.
Train schedules are subject to change.
Private compartments are available upon request with a surcharge.
Train journeys offer an authentic local experience, sharing cabins with other passengers (unless a private cabin is requested and fully paid for, with a supplement). Restrooms at either end of the carriages complete the local experience.

Accommodation: Overnight train to Lao Cai

Between 05:30 and 06:00, the arrival at Lao Cai Train Station marks the beginning of your day. A warm reception awaits you at the station, followed by a seamless transfer to Sapa. Early check-in is available upon arrival, subject to room availability (with an applicable surcharge). Take a moment to unwind and prepare for a full day of exploration.

At 9:30 am, meet your knowledgeable local guide to kick off the trekking adventure. The initial stretch follows the road before veering right onto a small path that leads down the valley to Y Linh Ho village, nestled by the Muong Hoa River. From here, proceed to the Black H’mong village of Lao Chai. The Black H’mong people, constituting one of the prominent minority groups in the Sapa region, boast their own language and distinctive indigo blue attire. Witness the transition in their way of life from nomadic to sedentary, evident in remnants such as rudimentary houses and stone walls around homes. The journey continues to Ta Van village (1,200 m), where you'll encounter the Zay people. The Zay community, numbering around 38,000 individuals, predominantly resides in the mountainous regions of Northwest Vietnam.

Following the visit to Ta Van village, the car will transport you back to Sapa. Enjoy leisure time for the remainder of the day, culminating in an overnight stay at a Sapa hotel.

Accommodation: Overnight in Sapa

Embark on a leisurely stroll towards the South-west of Sapa, covering a distance of approximately 3 km, to explore Cat Cat Village, home to the Black H’mong people—a well-known ethnic community in Sapa. Unwind amidst the captivating scenery at the base of a splendid waterfall and the remnants of a hydroelectric power station, a relic from the French colonial era in Vietnam.

Indulge in a picnic lunch by the river, and then extend your trekking journey by 3 km to reach Sin Chai Village, situated at the foothills of Fansipan Mountain, often referred to as the "Roof of Indochina." Revel in the breathtaking landscapes of the majestic mountain.

Return to the main road for a jeep transfer covering 3 km to reach Sapa town.

Between 15:00 and 15:30, the driver will be at your service to transport you on a 5-hour journey back to Hanoi.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

Halong Bay has earned its prestigious recognition as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site and has been acclaimed as one of the New7Wonders of Nature by the New7Wonders Foundation. Your overnight stay in this globally renowned bay is a truly exceptional experience.

Commencing the day with breakfast in Hanoi, you'll embark on a captivating 3-hour and 30-minute journey to Halong Bay. Upon reaching the jetty in Halong City around noon, proceed with the check-in procedures. Following a warm welcome aboard, savor a delectable lunch while the cruise sets sail through the mesmerizing bay. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in sightseeing, partake in on-board activities (depending on the boat's itinerary), or simply unwind and enjoy the serene ambiance on the vessel. As the day unfolds, the boat anchors among the breathtaking karst formations for the night. A delightful dinner is served on board.

Accommodation: Cruise in Halong Bay

For those who appreciate an early start, relish the opportunity to witness a remarkable sunrise casting its glow over the enchanting karst formations of Halong Bay. Following this awe-inspiring spectacle, a delightful breakfast will be promptly served.

Savor your breakfast (or brunch on select boats) as the vessel gracefully navigates through the captivating rock formations, making its way back to the port. Upon arrival at the harbor, a convenient transfer will be arranged to return you to Hanoi.

Conclude your journey with a drop-off at your hotel (please note that the hotel in Hanoi is not included).

Accommodation: NA