North Unveiled – 11 Days

Tour Code: SANTMUVZ214G 

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Hanoi - Mai Chau - Son La - Dien Bien Phu - Lai Chau - Sapa
Land tour From: $389
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Duration

11 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Hanoi – Mai Chau – Son La – Dien Bien Phu – Lai Chau – Sapa

Northern Vietnam’s distant reaches boast the nation’s loftiest peaks and some of its most challenging landscapes. It also hosts a mosaic of diverse ethnic groups and breathtaking scenery, providing travelers with an authentic and secluded cultural immersion. However, it’s essential to be aware that the roads can be challenging, and certain accommodations may offer only basic amenities. This excursion is ideal for those who have previously visited and wish to delve deeper into the region or can be seamlessly appended to the concluding leg of the Highlights of Vietnam or Vietnam Discovery tours.

Included/Excluded

  • * All accommodations (with Twin/Double rooms) while on tour
  • * Accommodation based on twin or double sharing room
  • * All transfers and road transport in modern, air-conditioned vehicles if specified in the program
  • * Meals as mentioned in the program. B-Breakfast, Br-Brunch, L-Lunch, D-Dinner
  • * Your tour guide is a professional, fully trained employee of Vietnam Tour Packages
  • * Entrance fees if specified in the program
  • * Airfares, Cruise, Train, Sleeper bus if specified in the program.
  • * Compulsory tips for tour guide and driver
  • * Meals not mentioned in the program
  • * Single Supplement. Early check-in and late check-out. Hotel/Room upgrade
  • * Drinks, personal expenses and any services not clearly mentioned in the program
  • * Surcharge for the festive seasons
  • * Applicable Government Taxes and other service charges.
  • * The tour cost does not include POE charges and passport charges.
  • * Porterage Facility

Itinerary

<span> Day 1</span> Hanoi Arrival

Upon arrival in Hanoi, the capital known for its grace and charm, you will be transferred to your designated hotel. Later in the evening, assemble with your tour leader and fellow travelers for welcome drinks and a comprehensive tour briefing.

<span> Day 2</span> Hanoi

Our journey kicks off with a stroll through the Ho Chi Minh Quarter, encompassing notable attractions such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Our exploration extends to his unassuming house on stilts, the Museum, Presidential Palace, and the One Pillar Pagoda. The tour proceeds with a visit to Hanoi's inaugural university, the Temple of Literature, which traces its origins back to 1070. Following lunch, we delve into the renowned Ethnology Museum. As the day concludes, immerse yourself in the captivating water puppet show, a remarkable highlight of Hanoi's evening entertainment.

<span> Day 3</span> Mai Chau Village

Commencing our journey at the break of dawn, we embark on a full day of travel to the Muong region of Hoa Binh. The day unfolds as we ascend into the mountains, ultimately reaching the charmingly situated village of Mai Chau. In this picturesque locale, we find accommodation in a traditional home among the White Thai people.

<span> Day 4</span> Son La

Our route from Mai Chau to Son La guides us through Yen Chau and Moc Chau, renowned for their lush mango, banana, and longan orchards. This region stands out as one of the rare areas in Vietnam with a thriving dairy industry, supported by initiatives from Australia and the United Nations. En route, we also traverse Vietnam's most extensive tea-growing areas surrounding Moc Chau. Prior to settling into our accommodation in Son La, we explore the remnants of the former French prison.

<span> Day 5</span> Dien Bien Phu

In the morning, our journey takes us along one of Vietnam's most scenic mountain routes to Dien Bien Phu, the historical site of the decisive battle that concluded French occupation in 1954. During the afternoon, we explore the renowned former battlefields that have etched their place in history for this town. Highlights include a visit to the recently constructed museum and Hill A1, the location of the most intense fighting. By late afternoon, we check into our hotel and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

<span> Day 6</span> Lai Chau

Our exploration today guides us through breathtaking landscapes and various hill tribe settlements, encompassing communities such as Black Tay, Muong, and Meo villages. You'll have the opportunity to capture photographs and wander through the villages, immersing yourself in the local culture, before reaching the remote town of Lai Chau later in the afternoon.

<span> Day 7</span> Sapa

On this day, we traverse stunning mountainous landscapes of remarkable beauty. Along the journey, encounter the vibrant communities of Red Dzao and Mien, pausing to engage with the locals. As the day draws to a close, we explore the awe-inspiring Thac Bac waterfalls and catch a glimpse of Mount Fansipan, the loftiest peak in Vietnam at 3,143 meters, before reaching our conveniently situated hotel in Sapa.

<span> Day 8</span> Sapa

A full day is dedicated to exploring both the town of Sapa and its surroundings. In the morning, we navigate the lively market, where traders from the Hmong and Dao minorities showcase and vend their goods. During the afternoon, embark on a walk through the picturesque terraced rice fields to reach one of the nearby Hmong villages, where you can partake in their traditional hospitality. The Hmong people, exceeding one million in Vietnam, are renowned for their vibrant attire and intricate embroidery.

Later in the day, you'll have ample free time to independently explore this former French hill station.

<span> Day 9</span> Sapa

In the morning, we journey to Bac Ha village to witness its exceptionally vibrant and diverse Sunday market. People from various ethnic groups travel for miles to Bac Ha every Sunday, engaging in the activities of buying, selling, bartering, and socializing. Following our time in Bac Ha, we proceed to Lao Cai. As evening falls, we board a (basic) overnight sleeper train for the return trip to Hanoi.

<span> Day 10</span> Hanoi

The present day is at your leisure, providing the opportunity to indulge in additional shopping or further exploration of the charms of this exquisite city.

<span> Day 11</span> Depart Hanoi

Following your morning meal, proceed to the airport, marking the conclusion of your expedition.

Durations

9 - 12 days

Languages

English

Regional Tours

Vietnam

For more information or to book this tour, please click the request button below:



Tour's Location

Hanoi - Mai Chau - Son La - Dien Bien Phu - Lai Chau - Sapa
Where to Eat & Drink in Vinh Long - Where to Eat & Drink in Vinh Long Vinh Long may not be as famous for its culinary scene as larger Vietnamese cities, but it offers authentic, budget-friendly local eats and a few great spots to unwind with a drink. Whether you're craving a steaming bowl of pho, a plate of grilled pork with broken rice, or a refreshing cocktail, here are the best places to try. 🍽️ Best Places to Eat in Vinh Long Com Tam He Pho – Authentic Grilled Pork & Rice📍 14 Phan Thai Buong | ☎️ 091 389 9904 | 💰 Budget ($)👉 A local favorite, this tiny, bustling eatery serves up tender grilled pork with fragrant broken rice (com tam) at incredibly affordable prices. It’s the best spot in town for a simple yet delicious meal. Lai Café – Best Coffee Spot with a River View📍 23 To Thi Huynh | 💰 Budget ($)👉 Among the many cafés along the river road, Lai Café stands out with its modern design and solid coffee brews. A great place to relax and watch the world go by. Pho 91 – Best Noodle Soup in Town📍 91, 2 Thang 9 | 💰 Budget ($)👉 If you’re in the mood for a hot bowl of pho, this place serves some of the best in town. The broth is rich and flavorful, the greens are fresh, and the overall local vibe is unbeatable. 🍹 Best Place to Drink in Vinh Long Avengers Pub – Fun, Laid-Back Bar with Great Cocktails📍 19 Muoi Bon Thang Chin | ☎️ 070 255 5573👉 The only real bar scene in Vinh Long, Avengers Pub offers friendly, English-speaking staff, a relaxed atmosphere, and affordable cocktails. Don’t miss their grilled pork ribs, which pair perfectly with a cold beer or a well-mixed drink. 🌟 Pro Tip: For an authentic Mekong Delta experience, start your evening with grilled pork at Com Tam He Pho, sip a Vietnamese coffee at Lai Café, and then wind down with cocktails at Avengers Pub.Where to Stay in Vinh Long - Where to Stay in Vinh Long: Best Accommodation Options Vinh Long offers a range of accommodation options, mostly concentrated near the boat jetty on the northern edge of town. For those seeking a closer connection to nature and local culture, the local tourism board can arrange stays with fruit orchard owners, allowing visitors to experience authentic rural life. These homestays are now widely available on online booking platforms, making it easier than ever to secure a stay in this tranquil part of the Mekong Delta. Best Hotels & Guesthouses in Vinh Long 🏙️ Town Center Minh Khue Hotel – Budget-Friendly & Centrally Located📍 38 Trung Nu Vuong | ☎️ 0270 382 6688 | 💰 Budget ($)👉 One of the best-value stays in town, offering clean, comfortable rooms at an affordable price. It is conveniently bookable online, and the friendly staff can also help arrange basic tours. Saigon – Vinh Long Hotel – Top Choice with Pool & Great Service📍 2 Trung Nu Vuong | 🌐 saigonvinhlonghotel.com | 💰 Mid-Range ($$)👉 A well-managed hotel in one of Vinh Long’s tallest buildings, providing cosy rooms, professional service, and a refreshing swimming pool. A great choice for those familiar with Saigon chain hotels. 🏝️ An Binh Island Happy Family Guesthouse – Best with Pool & Riverside Dining📍 53/4 Phu My | ☎️ 090 921 0177 | 💰 Budget ($)👉 Located north of An Binh Island, this is the only guesthouse with a swimming pool, making it perfect for hot days. Guests can enjoy meals on a riverfront deck, relax with massages, or use the small on-site gym. Boat tours available. Nam Thanh Guesthouse – Authentic Homestay with Free Bike Rental📍 172/9 Binh Luong | ☎️ 0270 385 8883 | 💰 Budget ($)👉 A simple, family-run guesthouse in a scenic setting near the ferry jetty. Prices include complimentary bicycle rental and two home-cooked meals, making it ideal for independent travelers. 🌊 Cai Be Mekong Riverside Resort & Spa – Luxury Stay in a Secluded Riverside Retreat📍 Hoa Qui, west of Cai Be | 🌐 mekongriversideresort.vn | 💰 Luxury ($$$)👉 The most luxurious accommodation in the Vinh Long region, set in a peaceful riverside compound. Choose a villa with a river view, relax in the swimming pool, or enjoy dining at the on-site restaurant and bar. Perfect for a quiet retreat away from city noise. 🏡 Pro Tip: For a unique experience, stay at a homestay in An Binh or Cai Be, where you can immerse yourself in local culture, enjoy traditional home-cooked meals, and explore the picturesque waterways of the Mekong Delta.
Land tourFrom: $389

Owner

Vietnam

Member Since 2024

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