Vietnam Highland Explorer 7 Days

Tour Code: WHF3ZB9S0AS9 

5 (115 Reviews)
Hanoi, Lao Cai, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Cuc Phuong National Park
From: $672 4-star hotels
5
(115 reviews)
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Duration

7 days

Tour Type

Specific Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

___

About this tour

Embark on an unforgettable 7-day journey, the Vietnam Highland Explorer tour, commencing and concluding in Hanoi. This immersive cultural experience will take you through Hanoi and four other captivating destinations in Vietnam. Your tour package encompasses accommodation in well-appointed hotels, the expertise of a knowledgeable guide, sumptuous meals, seamless transportation, and much more, ensuring a truly enriching adventure.

Highlights

  • * Sapa: A mountainous region in the northwest of Vietnam, known for its beautiful rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and trekking opportunities.
  • * Ninh Binh: An area of natural beauty, with stunning karst landscapes, rice fields, and ancient temples.
  • * Hanoi: The capital of Vietnam, with a mix of old and new architecture, street food, and cultural sites such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature.

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 VTP Travel
  • * All sightseeing as specified including entrance fees
  • * Airfares if specified in the program. ( E-Economy class, B-Business calss)
  • * Visa Approval Letter if specified in the program
  • • Compulsory tips for tour guide and driver
  • • Meals not mentioned in the program
  • • Any flights (Domestic and International) and airport tax
  • • 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

Itinerary

<span> Day 1</span>Hanoi Arrival

Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, our attentive guide and driver will be awaiting your arrival to warmly welcome you. They will promptly transfer you to your hotel for a seamless check-in process. Please note that your room will be available from 2:00 PM. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Relax and settle in at the hotel, soaking in the atmosphere of this vibrant city. Overnight stay at the comfortable hotel in Hanoi.

<span> Day 2 </span>Hanoi - Afternoon Motorbike Tour - Night Train to Lao Cai

Spend the morning leisurely exploring the enchanting Old Quarter area and the serene Hoan Kiem Lake. Around noon, savor a delectable lunch that awaits you. Afterward, embark on a captivating motorbike tour of Hanoi's famous landmarks, such as the Opera House, the historic Long Bien Bridge, and the mesmerizing Ceramic Road. Venture to a Red River island to immerse in the authentic local life, meandering through lush banana and vegetable farms. The journey continues to the picturesque West Lake, where you'll visit the revered Phu Tay Ho Temple, an homage to the Mother Goddess. Capture the beauty of the West Lake at the Dragon Tail, and explore the insightful Tao Sach Pagoda, which bears witness to 1000 years of Vietnam's history. Uncover the heart of Hanoi as you ride through its narrow alleys, offering glimpses into the vibrant life near the railroad. Return to your hotel to unwind and enjoy dinner at your preferred location. Take pleasure in your remaining time in Hanoi before being transferred to the railway station for an overnight train to Lao Cai, in a shared 4-berth cabin.

<span> Day 3 </span>Lao Cai - Local Market - Sapa Town

Upon arrival at Lao Cai station, you'll be greeted and taken to the Hoang Lien Son mountains, where nature's marvels and rich ethnic culture await. Relish the scenic beauty of magnificent valleys and vast rice paddies along the way. Embark on a leisurely walk to the vibrant local market, where ethnic communities don their colorful traditional costumes and sell an array of local produce, from fresh vegetables to medicinal herbs and beautiful brocade textiles. Capture the vibrant atmosphere and consider purchasing delightful gifts for your loved ones back home, always seeking permission before taking photographs with the sellers. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant. Return to the hotel to unwind. The rest of the day is yours to relish at your leisure. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant of your choice. Overnight stay at the hotel. Please note that each market operates on specific days: Monday – Phiet Village Market; Tuesday – Coc Ly Market; Wednesday – Cao Son Market; Thursday – Lung Khau Nhin Market; Friday – Chau Market; Saturday – Can Cau Market; Sunday – Bac Ha Market.

<span> Day 4 </span>Lao Chai - Tavan Trekking - Bus to Hanoi

Fuel up with a delightful breakfast at the hotel before embarking on an exploration of the picturesque Muong Hoa Valley. The journey takes you through Northern Vietnam's scenic roads, surrounded by majestic mountains and breathtaking valleys. Immerse in the tranquil landscape and the melodious songs of birds along the way, and if luck is on your side, you may catch a charming moment of a local boy guiding a group of buffaloes with a stick. After about a 7 km drive on the main road, we reach Lao Chai village and traverse a small trail that winds through the lush rice paddies. Here, you'll have the unique opportunity to delve into the local way of life, gaining insight into their culture and cherished traditions. Next, we head to Ta Van village, home to the Giay ethnic group, where we engage with local families, experiencing their customs and discovering the fascinating distinctions between hill tribes. Savor a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, our car awaits at the main road to transport us back to Sapa. After refreshing, we board a bus bound for Hanoi. Arrival in Hanoi is in the evening. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant of your choice, followed by an overnight stay in Hanoi.

<span> Day 5 </span>Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Van Long

The morning brings us to Ninh Binh, a scenic 110 km drive that takes approximately 2 hours. We arrive at Van Long Nature Reserve, famed as the breathtaking setting for the blockbuster movie, Kong: Skull Island. Embark on a delightful rowboat journey (around 1.5 hours) through the enchanting wetland, feasting your eyes upon magnificent limestone peaks and lush paddy fields. Our next adventure leads us to Gia Hung village, where we embark on an 8 km bike tour along the Boi River dike, immersing in the local community and its enchanting surroundings. Following this, we make our way to Nho Quan village for a delightful lunch shared with friendly locals. Later, visit the Hoa Lu ancient capital, exploring the remnants of the Dinh and Le dynasties from the 10th century and relishing in the nation's glorious history. Transfer to your hotel in Ninh Binh. Enjoy dinner at your leisure and spend a restful night at the hotel.

<span> Day 6 </span>Cuc Phuong National Park - Hanoi

After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, we embark on a captivating journey to Cuc Phuong National Park, one of Vietnam's oldest and most cherished national parks. Enjoy a scenic drive through the picturesque countryside of Ninh Binh before arriving at the park. Upon reaching our destination, we visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Centre, a vital organization dedicated to preserving endangered primate species. Savor a delicious lunch within the park. In the afternoon, immerse in a refreshing trek through the enchanting forest, marveling at the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this sanctuary. Afterwards, take a brief break before returning to Hanoi. Enjoy dinner at your preferred location, followed by a relaxing overnight stay at the hotel.

<span> Day 7 </span>Hanoi - Departure - No Guide

Savor your remaining time in Hanoi as you select wonderful souvenirs for your friends and family, creating cherished memories of your journey. At the designated time, you will be transferred without a guide to the airport for your onward flight. Meals are at your expense. This marks the end of our services, and we bid you farewell!

Durations

5 - 8 days

Regional Tours

Vietnam

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



Tour's Location

Hanoi, Lao Cai, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Cuc Phuong National Park
The Legend of Hanoi’s West Lake - 🐉 The Legend of Hanoi’s West Lake – Between Myth, History, and Timeless Beauty📍 Location: Northwest Hanoi | Free Entry | Open 24/7 🌅 Introduction: Where Myth Meets Modern Hanoi Few places in Hanoi capture the city’s poetic soul quite like West Lake (Hồ Tây). The vast, shimmering expanse of water — stretching over 500 hectares — has been a silent witness to Hanoi’s long and layered history. It’s a place where ancient legends blend effortlessly with modern life, where monks, kings, and mythical creatures once roamed, and where today’s travelers can enjoy lakeside cafés, sunsets, and the calm rhythm of local life. But before the luxury hotels, the trendy restaurants, and the scenic cycling routes, there was a story — a legend that explains how this lake came to be. And it’s one of Vietnam’s most enchanting folktales: The Legend of the Golden Buffalo and the Birth of West Lake. 🛕 The Ancient Tale: How the Golden Buffalo Created West Lake Long ago, when the world was still wrapped in mist and myth, a virtuous monk journeyed to China to heal the emperor’s mysterious illness. Out of gratitude, the emperor rewarded him with a generous gift of bronze. The monk, humble and devoted, donated most of the bronze to the state upon returning to Vietnam. Yet with the small portion he kept, he crafted a magnificent bronze bell — a bell so pure and resonant that its sound rolled across mountains and rivers, echoing far beyond human lands. 🐮 Far away in the imperial treasury of China, there lived a golden buffalo calf. Hearing the divine sound of the bell, the calf mistook it for its mother’s call and began charging south toward the origin of the sound. It ran tirelessly across valleys and plains until it reached Hanoi. But when the bell stopped ringing, the confused calf spun in circles, digging deep into the earth in its frantic search. The ground caved in, forming a massive hollow — which soon filled with water and became West Lake (Hồ Tây). According to legend, the golden buffalo still lies deep beneath the lake’s waters. It’s said that only a man aided by his ten natural sons can one day retrieve it — a symbol of purity, family unity, and divine destiny. 🌊 Between Myth and Reality: The Geographical Story While the legend paints a magical picture, geologists and historians offer a more down-to-earth explanation. West Lake was likely formed thousands of years ago as a lagoon left behind by the shifting Red River (Sông Hồng). Over time, the river’s course changed, creating a narrow land strip between the lake and the river, reinforced later by human-made embankments. But even the scientific truth doesn’t erase the poetry of the place. The lake’s still waters continue to hold the whisper of myth — and perhaps, the quiet pulse of that golden buffalo deep beneath. 👑 A Royal Playground Through the Centuries In Vietnam’s feudal era, West Lake wasn’t just a natural wonder — it was a royal retreat. Monarchs from the Ly, Tran, and Le dynasties built summer palaces and spiritual sanctuaries along its banks, seeking tranquility and inspiration. One of the most notable constructions was Trấn Quốc Pagoda, originally founded in the 6th century and known as Vietnam’s oldest pagoda. Sitting gracefully on a small islet connected by a red bridge, it became a sacred center for meditation and royal ceremonies. Even today, monks in saffron robes can be seen tending to the pagoda’s gardens, and visitors come from around the world to light incense, admire the intricate statues, and enjoy panoramic views of the lake at sunset. 🌅 West Lake Today (2025): The Beating Heart of Modern Hanoi Fast-forward to 2025, and West Lake has transformed into Hanoi’s most desirable neighborhood — a mix of traditional charm and cosmopolitan sophistication. Expats, artists, and young professionals call this area home. You’ll find luxury hotels, rooftop bars, craft cafés, yoga studios, and peaceful walking paths circling the water. Despite the modern vibe, the air of legend still lingers — especially at dawn, when mist hangs low and the sound of temple bells drifts across the lake. ✨ What to Experience Around West Lake (2025): 🚴‍♀️ Cycle or walk the 17km perimeter for incredible sunrise and sunset views. 🛕 Visit Trấn Quốc Pagoda, the city’s oldest religious site. 🍵 Enjoy lakeside dining at chic spots like Maison de Tet Décor, El Gaucho Steakhouse, or The Sunset Bar at InterContinental Hanoi Westlake. 🚤 Take a paddle boat ride on the nearby Trúc Bạch Lake, especially at sunset. 📸 Capture iconic Hanoi views from Thanh Niên Street — the narrow causeway separating West Lake and Trúc Bạch Lake. 💬 The Legend Lives On: West Lake in Local Culture The legend of the golden buffalo isn’t just an old folktale — it continues to live in Hanoi’s identity. Local artists, poets, and musicians still reference the mythical creature as a symbol of power, endurance, and prosperity. During the Lunar New Year (Tết), families visit West Lake to release carp into the water — a symbolic act of letting go of misfortune and inviting blessings. Lovers stroll under the flame trees, while elders practice tai chi by the lakeshore, connecting spiritual calm with physical harmony. In every season, the lake changes character:🌸 Spring brings soft blossoms around the temples.☀️ Summer fills the air with lotus fragrance.🍂 Autumn paints the waters gold.❄️ Winter wraps the lake in silver mist. Each phase reflects the rhythm of Hanoi’s heart — gentle, reflective, and eternal. 🌿 Practical Tips for Visiting West Lake in 2025 ✅ Best Time to Visit: Early morning (5–7 am) for sunrise tranquility, or late afternoon (4–6 pm) for magical golden light.✅ Getting There: Only a 10-minute drive from Hanoi’s Old Quarter by motorbike or taxi.✅ Local Eats: Try Bánh tôm Hồ Tây (crispy shrimp pancakes) — a Hanoi specialty born right here by the lakeside.✅ Don’t Miss: Watching the sunset from The Summit Bar at Pan Pacific...Gunners’ Memorial Hanoi - 🇻🇳 Gunners’ Memorial Hanoi – A Silent Witness of Courage and History📍 Location: North of Quan Thanh Temple, along Thanh Nien Street, Hanoi🕒 Open 24/7 • Free Entry 💫 Introduction: Where History Meets the Lakeside Peace of Hanoi As you stroll along Thanh Nien Street, the tree-lined causeway separating West Lake (Ho Tay) and Truc Bach Lake, you’ll come across a modest yet profoundly symbolic monument — the Gunners’ Memorial. Though small in size, this landmark holds immense historical and emotional weight. It honors the Vietnamese anti-aircraft units who defended Hanoi during the American War (Vietnam War), and it marks the very site where U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander John McCain’s plane was shot down in October 1967. Today, the Gunners’ Memorial is more than just a war relic — it’s a poignant reminder of resilience, reconciliation, and how far Vietnam has come since those turbulent years. In 2025, with Hanoi’s lakeside neighborhoods thriving with life and culture, this quiet memorial stands as a powerful symbol of peace and remembrance. ⚔️ A Glimpse Back in Time: The Story Behind the Memorial During the intense bombing campaigns of the late 1960s, anti-aircraft defense teams were stationed around Hanoi to protect key government buildings and cultural landmarks. The Gunners’ Memorial pays tribute to those brave soldiers who operated anti-aircraft cannons in the area — a crucial part of Hanoi’s defense network. On October 26, 1967, during an airstrike over Hanoi, Lieutenant Commander John McCain’s A-4 Skyhawk was struck by a missile launched from this very position. His plane crashed into Truc Bach Lake, just a few meters away from where the memorial now stands. Locals rushed to rescue McCain from the lake before he was taken prisoner — an event that would shape his life for years to come. McCain spent over five years as a prisoner of war in Hoa Lo Prison (nicknamed the “Hanoi Hilton”) before being released in 1973. 🕊️ From Conflict to Connection: The Story’s Human Side What makes this site truly remarkable is not just its wartime legacy, but the spirit of reconciliation it embodies today. When John McCain returned to Hanoi decades later as a U.S. Senator, he stood beside the very lake where he had fallen — not as an enemy, but as a guest and a symbol of friendship between two former foes. Vietnam and the United States have since developed strong diplomatic and economic ties, and sites like the Gunners’ Memorial remind visitors how history, though painful, can evolve into mutual respect and understanding. Standing at the memorial in 2025, you’ll see local couples taking photos, children riding bicycles, and vendors selling coconut ice cream by the lake — everyday life flowing peacefully where once war raged. 🏛️ What to See at the Gunners’ Memorial The memorial itself is small but evocative — a stone monument engraved in Vietnamese, surrounded by flowering shrubs and shaded by tamarind and flame trees. It’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it, but the simplicity adds to its charm and solemnity. 🔹 Inscription: The plaque honors the anti-aircraft gunners who “bravely fought and shot down enemy planes over Truc Bach Lake.”🔹 Scenic Backdrop: The site offers a serene view of Truc Bach Lake, with reflections of surrounding trees and small cafés — perfect for quiet contemplation.🔹 Nearby Attractions: Within walking distance are Quan Thanh Temple, Tran Quoc Pagoda, and several lakeside coffee shops where you can sit and soak in Hanoi’s tranquil beauty. 📷 Travel Tips for 2025 Visitors ⏰ Best Time to Visit: Early morning or just before sunset, when the light over Truc Bach Lake is golden and soft — ideal for photography. 🚶 Getting There: It’s about a 10-minute taxi or motorbike ride from Hanoi Old Quarter. You can also walk along Thanh Nien Street if you’re exploring nearby West Lake. ☕ Where to Rest: After visiting, grab a seat at one of Truc Bach’s cozy lakeside cafés such as Maison de Tet Décor or The Coffee House. Both offer great views and relaxing vibes. 🎧 Combine It With: Visiting Quan Thanh Temple (Guardian of the North) and Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist pagoda in Hanoi — both just a short stroll away. 🧭 Why You Should Visit For travelers interested in Vietnam’s layered history, the Gunners’ Memorial is a must-visit stop. It’s not a grand or heavily visited landmark, but its quiet dignity captures something deeply human — the endurance of memory, the cost of peace, and the beauty of moving forward. Here, history doesn’t shout; it whispers across the calm waters of Truc Bach Lake. You’ll feel the stillness, the reflection — both literal and emotional — that makes Hanoi so captivating. ❤️ Final Thoughts: A Small Monument with a Big Message In a city where ancient temples, colonial architecture, and modern cafés coexist harmoniously, the Gunners’ Memorial serves as a gentle yet powerful bridge between Hanoi’s past and present. It reminds visitors that while the city continues to grow and modernize — with electric scooters, tech startups, and vibrant nightlife — the soul of Hanoi remains grounded in remembrance, gratitude, and humanity. If you ever find yourself wandering between West Lake and Truc Bach Lake, pause here for a few quiet minutes. Listen to the breeze rustling through the trees, watch the ripples on the lake’s surface, and reflect on how far the world has come since 1967. ✨ Travel Tip Recap✅ Location: Thanh Nien Street, between West Lake & Truc Bach Lake✅ Entry: Free, open 24 hours✅ Nearby: Quan Thanh Temple, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Truc Bach cafés✅ Best time: Sunrise or sunset for the most peaceful atmosphere 🌿 Hanoi’s Gunners’ Memorial isn’t just about history — it’s about hope.A story of courage, survival, and the quiet strength that defines Vietnam’s capital.

Reviews

5/5
Excellent
(115 Reviews)
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115 reviews on this Tour - Showing 1 to 15
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Bailey
19/05/2025

Excellent!

With VTP Travel, our Laos experience was a smooth blend of adventure and cultural exploration. We loved how well-paced the itinerary was. Each hotel provided great comfort and local flavor. What stood out most were the knowledgeable guides who gave historical background with passion and perfect English, making the entire journey memorable.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Sandy
18/05/2025

Excellent!

Traveling Myanmar with VTP Travel was a unique and rewarding experience. The company’s attention to detail was impressive, and the accommodations reflected the country’s charm while providing modern comfort. The guides were fluent in English and shared fascinating stories, making the cultural sites much more meaningful and engaging.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Eleanor
17/05/2025

Excellent!

The Myanmar tour with VTP Travel was fantastic. The hotels reflected the country’s charm while providing modern comforts. The itinerary was thoughtfully crafted to showcase must-see sights and hidden gems. Our English-speaking guides were friendly and knowledgeable, ensuring every moment was informative and engaging, making the journey unforgettable.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Maya
16/05/2025

Excellent!

Myanmar tours by VTP Travel were nothing short of spectacular. The cultural immersion and well-organized schedule made it a truly memorable experience.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Sawyer
15/05/2025

Excellent!

Vietnam tours by VTP Travel are always excellent. The hotels were comfortable and conveniently located. The meals included were delicious and showcased authentic Vietnamese flavors. The English-speaking guides were professional and engaging, making the cultural and historical tours truly enriching.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Sondra
14/05/2025

Excellent!

I was impressed by how professional the team was in planning our Cambodia trip. They answered all my questions promptly and tailored the itinerary perfectly. The experience exceeded my expectations!
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Maribel
12/05/2025

Excellent!

Vietnam tours by VTP Travel are second to none. The company carefully chooses excellent hotels and plans itineraries that showcase the country’s best highlights. The English-speaking guides were professional, knowledgeable, and friendly, providing engaging narratives that made the history and culture come alive. The delicious food added a wonderful culinary dimension to the trip.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Camila
11/05/2025

Excellent!

I was impressed by the level of care VTP Travel put into organizing my Laos tour. The accommodations were lovely, and the itinerary was balanced to include both sightseeing and downtime. The English-speaking guides were informative and patient, making every part of the trip enjoyable and culturally immersive.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Eleanor
11/05/2025

Excellent!

VTP Travel provided a fantastic Vietnam travel experience. They selected great hotels with excellent amenities and locations. The food was outstanding, highlighting the best local flavors. The English-speaking guides were experts in their fields and made the history and culture come alive with their engaging stories. Customer service was top-notch.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
David
10/05/2025

Excellent!

VTP Travel delivered an amazing Cambodia experience with flawless organization. Their team was quick to answer my questions and flexible in adjusting the itinerary to my preferences. The hotels were well-located and comfortable, and the guides spoke excellent English, making cultural sites come alive with engaging explanations.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Ellen
10/05/2025

Excellent!

We had an unforgettable time in Cambodia thanks to VTP Travel’s outstanding service. The tour was well-paced and filled with local experiences. Our guide was engaging and very fluent in English, which helped us understand everything from temple symbolism to market customs. The entire experience was smooth and highly enjoyable.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Alexia
09/05/2025

Excellent!

My Myanmar tour with VTP Travel was a deeply enriching experience. The itinerary was perfectly balanced between sightseeing and cultural immersion. The hotels were comfortable, reflecting local culture, and the English-speaking guides were engaging storytellers who brought Myanmar’s history to life.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Chandler
09/05/2025

Excellent!

VTP Travel’s Cambodia itinerary was a dream. We explored Angkor Wat at sunrise and enjoyed a boat ride through floating villages. The guide’s English was excellent, and his passion for the country’s history was inspiring. Every hotel was clean and centrally located. We felt completely taken care of from start to finish.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Julia
08/05/2025

Excellent!

I highly recommend VTP Travel for those wanting to explore Laos. The accommodations were authentic and comfortable, enhancing the cultural immersion. The English-speaking guides were knowledgeable, approachable, and patient, sharing fascinating stories that made the trip enjoyable and educational.
Ninh Binh Vietnam
Tammie
08/05/2025

Excellent!

VTP Travel’s Myanmar tour was an enriching and smooth experience. The itinerary was perfectly balanced between exploration and relaxation, the hotels were comfortable, and the English-speaking guides were enthusiastic and informative. Their professionalism and attention to customer needs made the trip both comfortable and unforgettable.

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From: $672
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5 (115 Reviews)

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