Off the beaten tracks in North Vietnam 8 days 7 nights

Tour Code: S7EJNZVKPJC3

4.9 (124 Reviews)

Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Giang, Dong Van, Meo Vac, Cao Bang, Ba Be National Park

From: $477 4-star hotels

4.9

(124 reviews)

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Duration

8 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Giang, Dong Van, Meo Vac, Cao Bang, Ba Be National Park

Embark on an exciting adventure that both starts and concludes in Hanoi! Immerse yourself in the Active tour “Off the Beaten Tracks in North Vietnam, spanning 8 days and 7 nights.” This immersive journey takes you through Hanoi and six other enchanting destinations in Vietnam. The comprehensive tour package includes comfortable accommodation in hotels, the guidance of an experienced and informative guide, delectable meals, seamless transportation, and more.

Included/Excluded

* Throughout the tour, guests will be accommodated exclusively in 4- and 5-star hotels.
* 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 Indochina Royal Travel
* 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

Hotel List:
To view the list and detailed information about the hotels used in the tour

Please click here: View Hotel List

Itinerary

Around 7:30 am, our knowledgeable guide and skilled driver will collect you from your hotel, marking the beginning of a picturesque 5-hour journey to Sapa. During this time, sit back, relax, and witness the captivating shift from a bustling metropolis to expansive rolling hills and endless rice paddies.

Upon reaching Sapa around midday, indulge in a delightful local lunch. Embark on your inaugural trek, navigating through the scenic rice terraces from Lao Chai to the H’mong-inhabited Ta Van village. Immerse yourself in the local community, fostering cultural exchanges, before a comfortable return to Sapa Town by car. Your overnight sanctuary awaits at a well-appointed hotel.

We embark on our trek, heading to the Red Dzao village of Ma Tra and then proceeding to the village of Ta Phin. Along the way, you'll be captivated by the stunning scenery of rice paddies and charming villages, creating a picturesque setting. The day culminates in an immersive experience as we settle in for the night at a local homestay in Ta Phin, providing an authentic encounter with the local culture and traditions.

Today marks our departure from Sapa as we venture towards Ha Giang, often hailed as Vietnam's final frontier. En route, we'll take a moment to explore Hoang A Tuong, also known as the "Cat King's House," nestled in Bac Ha Town. Following this, we'll indulge in a delightful lunch in Chang Village, inhabited by Tay communities.

Our journey deeper into the heart of Ha Giang unfolds, treating us to mesmerizing landscapes. By around 6 pm, we'll reach the Tay village, where the evening invites you to savor a home-cooked dinner. Immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the Tay people as you spend the night in a quaint Tay stilt house.

After obtaining the necessary permit from the Immigration Office, our journey unfolds towards Dong Van, navigating through a captivating series of mountain passes that wind through the valleys. Along this route, immerse yourself in extraordinary vistas of the undulating landscapes and discover the unique flora and fauna.

Our lunch awaits in the charming mountain town of Tam Son, providing an opportunity to explore H'mong villages like Pho Bang and Pho Cao. Uncover the history of the H'mong people with a visit to the former palace of H'mong King Vuong Chinh Duc, a historical figure allied with the French. Around 18:00, we'll arrive in Dong Van, where a local restaurant invites you for dinner, and a comfortable hotel offers an overnight stay.

<span> Day 5</span> Dong Van - Meo Vac - Cao Bang

Begin your day with an exploration of Dong Van Market, a vibrant center where locals from neighboring villages converge for essential trading and transactions.

Following this, set out on a trek to Pu Lo Fortress, erected in 1890 and later evacuated in 1945. Admire the breathtaking panoramic views unfolding from this elevated position. Next, embark on a 15 km ascent to the summit of Ma Pi Leng Pass, navigating through a vast maze of limestone peaks, stone forests, and canyons, concluding with a descent into the scenic Meo Vac Valley.

Traversing the valley's landscape, our journey takes us to Bao Lac village, offering a brief interlude and a delightful lunch. Subsequently, a picturesque drive to Cao Bang unfolds, and you'll settle in for the night at a comfortable hotel.

<span> Day 6</span> Cao Bang - Ban Gioc Waterfall

Anticipate a day filled with extraordinary experiences as we guide you to one of Northern Vietnam's most captivating natural wonders - Ban Gioc Waterfall. The approximately two-hour drive from Cao Bang unfolds into a mesmerizing 300-meter wide cascade nestled on the border between China and Vietnam, amidst the picturesque mountainous terrain.

Immerse yourself in the embrace of nature's grandeur, capturing breathtaking photos and embarking on a bamboo boat that brings you so close to the falls that you'll feel the invigorating spray on your face. Positioned at the very edge of Vietnam, the proximity to China is palpable, an experience heightened by the chance to touch the border.

Following the enchantment of the waterfall, delve into the depths of the enchanting Nguom Ngao Cave, revealing rock formations sculpted by erosion over millennia.

Post-exploration, traverse a hidden scenic route winding through the mountains, leading to the Nung village of Quang Uyen. Extend a warm welcome to Mr. Hung Dao, a remarkably amicable blacksmith, who will host you for a delightful dinner at his residence. The night unfolds in the comfort of a traditional Nung house, creating a cozy and authentic retreat.

<span> Day 7</span> Cao Bang - Ba Be Lake

On this day, say goodbye to Ha Giang as we journey through the Ma Phuc Pass on our way to Ba Be National Park. As we enter the park, a realm of natural wonders reveals itself for exploration. Immerse yourself in the captivating surroundings, from the expansive lake and the mesmerizing Puong Grotto caves to the lively rapids of Dau Dang Waterfall. To conclude the day, we visit the quaint Widow Island nestled on the lake.

Your overnight stay will be in a traditional Tay stilt house, providing an authentic and immersive experience as you reside with a local host family.

Laying the groundwork for a leisurely riverside stroll to explore the neighboring villages. Embark on a picturesque trek to elevated viewpoints around the lake, treating yourself to awe-inspiring panoramas framed by limestone formations and majestic mountain peaks.

Our expedition proceeds to the renowned Hua Ma Cave, a natural marvel adorned with thousands of stalactites and stalagmites, proudly holding the distinction of being the largest dry cave in Northeastern Vietnam. Following a satisfying midday meal at a local establishment, it is unfortunately time to initiate our return journey to Hanoi, signaling the conclusion of our escapade. Anticipate arriving at your hotel around 5 pm as we bid you farewell.

Durations

5 - 8 days

Languages

English

Regional Tours

Vietnam

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

BOOKING REQUEST

PRIVATE CUSTOMISED TRIP

Tour's Location

Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Giang, Dong Van, Meo Vac, Cao Bang, Ba Be National Park

Vietnam’s Revolutionary Spirit - Exploring Vietnam’s Revolutionary Spirit When you travel through Hanoi, you’ll notice that the city’s history isn’t just preserved in its temples and French villas — it also lives on in its museums. One of the most fascinating places to experience this is at 216 Tran Quang Khai Street, home to what was once the Museum of the Vietnamese Revolution. Today, it forms part of the National Museum of History, focusing on Vietnam’s revolutionary journey — from the earliest anti-colonial movements in the 19th century to the nation’s dramatic transformation after reunification in 1975. This museum is more than a collection of artifacts; it’s a powerful narrative of resilience, patriotism, and hope, told through rare documents, photographs, and stories of the people who shaped modern Vietnam. 🏛️ A Museum with Revolutionary Roots Originally established as the Museum of the Vietnamese Revolution, the site was dedicated to chronicling the struggles of the Vietnamese people against colonial powers and foreign domination. In recent years, the collection was integrated into the larger National Museum of History, giving visitors a complete picture of the nation’s past in one cohesive institution. Walking through its halls in 2025, you’ll find that the displays are thoughtfully curated to guide you through the country’s turning points — from underground resistance newspapers to iconic photographs of revolutionary leaders. 📜 The Story Told Through Documents and Words Unlike other museums that rely heavily on artifacts, this one leans on the power of documents and writing to bring history to life. Clandestine Newspapers 📰 – The earliest whispers of resistance often came through underground publications, secretly printed and distributed despite colonial surveillance. These fragile papers now rest in glass cases, a reminder of the courage it took to spread ideas of freedom. Revolutionary Tracts ✍️ – Many of these were penned by Ho Chi Minh, whose words inspired generations to resist oppression and fight for independence. His essays, pamphlets, and letters remain a central feature of the museum’s collection. Rare Photographs 📸 – The museum proudly displays portraits of Vietnam’s revolutionary heroes. Some of these images cannot be found elsewhere, making the exhibit especially valuable for history enthusiasts. ⚔️ War and Resistance: Key Exhibitions The museum also shines a spotlight on some of the defining battles and wars of Vietnam’s modern history. 🌄 Dien Bien Phu – The Decisive Victory No exhibit about Vietnam’s revolutionary struggle would be complete without a tribute to the Battle of Dien Bien Phu in 1954. This historic victory against French forces marked the end of colonial rule in Indochina and paved the way for the Geneva Accords. The museum presents documents, maps, and photographs that capture the determination of the Vietnamese fighters. 🇻🇳 The War of Independence The displays offer an in-depth look at Vietnam’s long fight for sovereignty, from grassroots resistance groups to organized national movements. Visitors can see how everyday people became part of a collective force determined to reclaim their homeland. 🪖 The American War (Vietnam War) Though the Military History Museum provides more extensive coverage of the Vietnam War, this site still offers a compelling collection. Visitors can explore carefully presented exhibits about the conflict, highlighting both the struggles and the resilience of the Vietnamese people. From propaganda posters to personal items of soldiers, these stories personalize a war that changed the world. 🌟 Why Visit 216 Tran Quang Khai in 2025? Authenticity: Many of the documents and photos are one-of-a-kind, offering perspectives not found in other museums. Emotional Impact: The focus on writings, faces, and personal stories creates a human connection with history. Contextual Learning: When combined with the main History Museum at Trang Tien and the Military History Museum, you gain a well-rounded understanding of Vietnam’s journey. 🕘 Visitor Information (Updated 2025) 📍 Address: 216 Tran Quang Khai Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi🕗 Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM (Closed on the first Monday of each month)🎟️ Tickets: Entrance fee required; combined tickets with the National Museum of History are available for convenience.🌐 Official Website: baotanglichsu.vn🚶 Getting There: Just a short walk from the Opera House and Hoan Kiem Lake, making it easy to include in your Hanoi itinerary. 💡 Travel Tips for Visitors Pair Your Visit: Plan to see both 216 Tran Quang Khai and the main History Museum at 1 Trang Tien on the same day. Together, they tell the full story of Vietnam. Allow Enough Time: While smaller than the main site, the depth of the documents and exhibits deserves at least 1–2 hours. Photography: Limited photography may be allowed; check current rules upon entry. Guides & Audio Tours: Hiring a guide or using an audio tour app can provide richer insights, especially if you’re not familiar with Vietnam’s revolutionary figures. Respect the Space: For many locals, these exhibits are not just history but part of their family’s lived experiences. 🌏 Connecting Past and Present Visiting 216 Tran Quang Khai is not simply about studying old documents. It’s about standing in the presence of a nation’s collective memory — of battles fought, sacrifices made, and dreams of independence realized. For travelers in 2025, when Vietnam is thriving as one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies and cultural destinations, the museum is a poignant reminder of how far the country has come. From clandestine newspapers to post-war reconstruction, the exhibits encapsulate the resilience and determination that continue to define Vietnam today. ✨ Final Thoughts If you’re exploring Hanoi and want to go beyond the surface, make time for 216 Tran Quang Khai. It’s not as flashy as the Old Quarter or as glamorous as the Opera House, but it holds something deeper — the soul of Vietnam’s revolutionary journey. Walking through its halls, you’ll encounter not just names and dates but real voices from the past, still echoing with a call for freedom and unity. And that makes this museum one of Hanoi’s most powerful and unforgettable cultural experiences.Hanoi’s National Museum of History - 🏛️ Hanoi’s National Museum of History: A Journey Through Vietnam’s Past If you want to truly understand Vietnam — its struggles, triumphs, and cultural depth — there’s no better place to start than the National Museum of History in Hanoi. Nestled just one block east of the Hanoi Opera House, this museum is not only a treasure trove of artifacts but also a masterpiece of architecture, blending French colonial charm with traditional Vietnamese motifs. In 2025, the museum continues to be one of Hanoi’s must-visit cultural landmarks, offering travelers a chance to step back thousands of years into Vietnam’s past. From prehistoric tools to imperial treasures and wartime relics, every corner tells a story of resilience and creativity. 🏯 Architecture: A Blend of French Elegance and Vietnamese Tradition Before even stepping inside, the building itself demands admiration. Designed in the 1930s by the École Française d’Extrême-Orient, the structure combines the grandeur of a French villa with the curves and rooflines of Vietnamese palatial design — a style often referred to as Neo-Vietnamese architecture. With its ochre-yellow walls, graceful balconies, and tiled roofs, the museum feels like a harmonious fusion of East and West. Even today, photographers and architecture enthusiasts are drawn here, not just for the exhibits but also for the artistry of the building itself. ⏳ A Walk Through Time: The Museum’s Layout The National Museum of History is divided into two main sections: The main building at 1 Trang Tien Street — covering Vietnam’s history up to 1945. The annex across the street at 216 Tran Quang Khai Street — focusing on the post-1945 era, including Vietnam’s struggle for independence and reunification. This division allows visitors to follow Vietnam’s journey step by step, from prehistoric times to the modern nation it has become. 🥁 Ground Floor Highlights: The Bronze Age and Beyond Stepping into the ground floor is like traveling back over 2,000 years to the era of the Dong Son culture (1200–200 BC). This sophisticated Bronze Age civilization thrived in the Red River Delta and left behind remarkable artifacts that continue to astonish historians. 🌟 Must-See Exhibits on the Ground Floor The Ngoc Lu Drum 🥁 – Considered the crown jewel of the collection, this ceremonial bronze drum is adorned with delicate carvings of deer, birds, and musicians. Its craftsmanship demonstrates advanced casting techniques far ahead of its time. Bronze Tools and Utensils ⚒️ – From arrowheads to cooking implements, these everyday objects reveal the ingenuity of early Vietnamese societies. Artifacts from Hanoi’s Imperial Citadel 🏯 – Excavations in recent decades have uncovered treasures from Hanoi’s historic citadel, shedding light on its role as a political and cultural center. 11th-Century Amitabha Buddha 🧘 – A graceful wooden statue reflecting the influence of Buddhism in Vietnam’s medieval era. Celadon Ceramics 🍵 – Exquisite pale-green pottery from the Ly dynasty, admired for its elegance and durability. Bach Dang River Stakes ⚓ – Wooden stakes used in the legendary 13th-century battle, when Vietnamese forces under General Tran Hung Dao defeated Mongol invaders by luring their fleet into a deadly trap. Standing before these relics, you don’t just see artifacts — you feel the spirit of Vietnam’s ancestors who shaped the nation’s identity. 📜 Second Floor Treasures: Dynasties, Art, and Colonial Influences Moving upstairs, the second floor offers a vivid journey through Vietnam’s dynastic golden ages and its encounters with foreign powers. 🌟 Highlights of the Second Floor Le Loi Stele (3 meters tall) 🗿 – This monumental stone slab recounts the life of Le Loi, the national hero who led the resistance against Ming Chinese rule and established the Later Le dynasty (1428–1788). Ceramics Collection 🍶 – An extensive display of intricately painted ceramics, showcasing how Vietnamese artisans perfected techniques over centuries. Nguyen Dynasty Exhibits 👑 – Furniture inlaid with ivory, embroidered silk garments, and ceremonial items once used by emperors inside Hue’s Imperial Citadel. 19th-Century Ink Wash Paintings 🎨 – Evocative depictions of Hue’s imperial court life in the 1890s, capturing the elegance and rituals of Vietnam’s last dynasty. French Colonial Era Relics 🏛️ – Artifacts reflecting Vietnam’s transition during the late 19th and early 20th centuries under French rule, offering insight into cultural exchanges and struggles for identity. This section bridges the past with the dawn of modern Vietnam, revealing how the country endured centuries of outside influence while preserving its cultural soul. 📍 The Annex: Vietnam After 1945 Across the street, the second museum building covers the modern chapter of Vietnam’s history. Here, visitors encounter exhibits from the August Revolution, the First Indochina War, and the Vietnam War (known in Vietnam as the American War). You’ll see military uniforms, personal belongings of revolutionary leaders, propaganda posters, and photographs documenting the nation’s struggle for independence and reunification. It’s a powerful and emotional experience, particularly for visitors seeking to understand Vietnam’s resilience in the 20th century. 🕘 Visitor Information (Updated 2025) 📍 Address: 1 Trang Tien Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi🕗 Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM (Closed the first Monday of each month)🎟️ Tickets: Entry fee applies (with additional small fee if bringing a camera). Tickets can now be purchased online via the museum’s official website to skip queues.🌐 Official Website: baotanglichsu.vn 💡 Travel Tips for Visiting in 2025 Best Time to Visit: Mornings are quieter, especially on weekdays. Arrive early to avoid tour groups. Combine With Nearby Attractions: The Opera House, Trang Tien Plaza, and Hoan Kiem Lake are all within walking distance. Bring a Guidebook or Audio Guide: While many exhibits now have English and French explanations, a guidebook or hired guide adds context to the vast collection. Photography: A small fee is required for cameras, but the photos are worth it, especially for the architectural details. Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be on your feet for at least 2–3 hours exploring the two buildings. 📸 Why the Museum is a Must-See in Hanoi Unlike many museums that feel static, the National Museum of History in Hanoi is alive...

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