Vietnam Timeless Charm – 11 Days

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel and be ready for the day's activities. Between 7:45 and 8:30, our tour guide will pick you up from your hotel. Begin the day by visiting the Ho Chi Minh complex, where you will have the opportunity to view the preserved body of Ho Chi Minh himself. Take a leisurely stroll through the Ho Chi Minh garden, where you can explore the two houses he lived and worked in from 1954 to 1969. At around 9:30 or 9:45, visit the unique One Pillar Pagoda, dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy and considered one of the most distinctive pagodas in the world. Next, proceed to the Lacquer Paintings workshop, the largest center of its kind in Hanoi, where you can witness the art of lacquer painting. At 10:45, choose one of the following options: Option 1: Visit the Bat Trang ceramics and pottery village (available on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays). Option 2: Explore the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (available on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays). Recharge with a delightful lunch at our restaurant, featuring eight delicious Vietnamese dishes. After lunch, continue your exploration with a visit to the Temple of Literature, the first university in Vietnam during the feudal era. At 3:00, make your way to Tran Quoc Pagoda, originally built in the 6th century. Here, you will find the oldest Bodhi tree in Vietnam, planted by Ho Chi Minh. Proceed to Hoan Kiem Lake at 3:45 to visit Ngoc Son Temple, which pays tribute to General Tran Hung Dao, a heroic figure who defeated Mongolian invaders in the 13th century. By 4:15, the tour concludes, giving you the evening to enjoy dinner at your leisure before returning to your hotel. Overnight stay at your hotel in Hanoi.

Between 7:30 and 8:00, our tourist bus will pick you up from your hotel lobby in Hanoi Old Quarter to begin your journey to Hoa Lu. Around 10:30 to 10:40, arrive at Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam. Explore the Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple, both dating back to the 10th century, and discover the heroic histories of these two kings during the Chinese Wars. From 11:50 to 12:00, indulge in a buffet lunch featuring delicious Vietnamese cuisine. Between 13:10 and 13:15, hop back on the tourist bus and head to Tam Coc Wharf, where you will embark on a sampan boat ride along the Ngo Dong River to explore the enchanting Tam Coc, famously known as the "Three Caves." At 15:25 to 15:30, get on your bicycle and enjoy a leisurely bike ride around the picturesque Tam Coc area, immersing yourself in the serene surroundings. Take a break and savor some traditional Vietnamese tea. Around 16:30 to 16:35, return to our tourist bus for the journey back to Hanoi. Between 19:00 and 19:30, arrive in Hanoi and be dropped off at your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter, concluding your day's adventures.

Between 08:15 and 08:45, our shuttle bus will pick you up from your hotel or private address. Enjoy a short break halfway. Arrive at Tuan Chau Marina around 11:45 to 12:00 and transfer to the cruise by tender. Welcome aboard the cruise! Refresh with a welcome drink and meet the captain and crew during the cruise briefing and safety instruction. Indulge in a special Vietnamese cuisine lunch featuring fresh seafood and a variety of appetizing favorites as we sail through the mesmerizing Islets of Con Vit. Around 16:00, the cruise navigates through Lan Ha Bay, an area renowned for its extraordinary limestone karst landscapes. Explore the Ong Cam Area of Lan Ha Bay, a tranquil paradise in Vietnam. Engage in kayaking or enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters. Return to the cruise at 17:30 and drop anchor for an overnight stay. Experience a cooking demonstration where we teach you how to make our specialty, Spring rolls. Unwind and indulge in the complimentary Sunset Party on the sundeck, accompanied by local wine and fresh fruit. At 19:00, savor a delightful dinner in the restaurant, featuring delicious local cuisine prepared and served by our exceptional onboard catering staff. After dinner, you can retire to your cabin or join the fishing excursion, watch a movie, have a drink at the bar, access the Wi-Fi, or engage in exciting games. Overnight on board.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the bay as you wake up to the sunrise at 06:00. Engage in an invigorating Tai Chi session on the sundeck, immersing yourself in the serenity of the surroundings. Enjoy a light breakfast, accompanied by a selection of coffee and tea, at 06:30. Embark on an exploration of the captivating Dark & Bright Cave and its mesmerizing islets. Traverse the mystical beauty of this natural wonder with local rowing boats, discovering its untamed allure in the heart of this World Heritage site. Return to our Cruise at 09:15 and take some time to relax before checking out. Indulge in a delectable lunch served on board at 10:00, savoring the flavors of the region. Disembark at Tuan Chau Marina by tender at 12:00. Board our shuttle bus for the return journey to Hanoi. Arrive back at your hotel or home between 15:00 and 15:30, where you can unwind and prepare for the next leg of your adventure. At 20:00, we will escort you to Hanoi Railway Station, where you will check in to your train cabin for the night journey to Sapa.

5:30 AM: Upon arrival in Lao Cai, we embark on a scenic one-hour van ride uphill to the enchanting town of Sapa. This journey treats you to breathtaking vistas and awe-inspiring rice terraces, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience. 7:00 AM: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel. Take this opportunity to relax and rejuvenate, perhaps indulging in a refreshing shower. 9:00 - 9:30 AM: Embark on a 5-kilometer trek along a picturesque mountain trail to Y Linh Ho village. This secluded village is home to the black Hmong tribe, offering a rare glimpse into their rich culture and way of life. Immerse yourself in the authenticity of Sapa as you visit native houses, witness traditional handicraft-making using natural materials like hemp and indigo, and learn about their customs. Continue the trek down to Muong Hoa River, where you can rest and even take a refreshing swim. Then, ascend to Lao Chai village, where a delicious picnic lunch awaits. 1:00 PM: After lunch, explore the vibrant Day and Red Dzao tribes in Tavan village. Located in the heart of Muong Hoa valley, this picturesque village showcases stunning rice terraced fields, offering captivating panoramic views. 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM: Indulge in a sumptuous dinner and spend the night at a local homestay, immersing yourself in the warm hospitality of the local people. Accommodation: Homestay in Sapa with the local community.

8:00 AM: Begin your day with a satisfying breakfast at the homestay. Prepare yourself for an adventurous trek of approximately 8 kilometers to the captivating Red Dzao village of Giang Ta Chai. Along the way, you'll navigate diverse terrain, traversing both uphill and downhill sections, and passing through enchanting bamboo forests. Take in the beauty of the surroundings as you reach the scenic waterfall, cross the Rattan Bridge, and encounter the serene stream. Pause for a refreshing swim and enjoy a delightful picnic lunch. 2:30 PM: Resume your trek with a moderate uphill walk of about 2 kilometers, leading you to Hau Thao village. Here, a vehicle awaits to transport you back to Sapa. Once in Sapa, take some time to explore the town and visit the vibrant local market. As evening approaches, savor a delicious dinner before being transferred to Lao Cai train station, where you'll board the night train to Hanoi. Overnight on the train as you make your way back to Hanoi.

5:00 AM: Upon your arrival at Hanoi Railway Station, take a taxi to the cozy small hotel in the heart of the Old Quarter that we have arranged for your comfort and relaxation. 8:00 AM: Our knowledgeable tour guide will greet you at your hotel and accompany you on a scenic car journey to Lang Son. The drive will take approximately 3 hours, leading us towards the border with China. Along the way, we will make a captivating stop at Chi Lang Pass, a majestic 20-kilometer gorge nestled between two mountains. Chi Lang Pass holds great historical significance, as it has witnessed numerous victorious battles against Chinese invasions throughout Vietnam's rich history. Known as Vietnam's strongest citadel and bastion, the pass boasts the Quy Mon Quan Gate, also known as "The Gate of Monsters." This gate earned its name from the countless invading forces that once attempted to penetrate its defenses, only to be repelled by the brave Vietnamese defenders. You will have about an hour to explore this historic site, soaking in its stories and admiring the surroundings. After indulging in a delightful lunch at a local restaurant in Dong Dang, our journey continues through the pass. We will visit the Mother's Temple and Dong Khe, a significant historical site where the First Indochina War's Battle of Dong Khe took place. This battle marked the initiation of the Indochina Wars, and the courageous Viet Minh emerged victorious after intense fighting from September to October 1950. In the evening, you will be treated to a delectable dinner and enjoy a comfortable overnight stay at a local homestay run by a welcoming Nung family. Immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the locals and embrace the authentic cultural experience. Highlights and activities: Chi Lang Pass, Quy Mon Quan Gate, Dong Khe Battle Site, Ethnic Villages, and a scenic 3-5-kilometer walk. Overnight at a homestay with the local community.

After savoring a delightful breakfast at the homestay, we embark on a captivating journey to Trung Khanh, a region situated right on the border with China. Here, we have the wonderful opportunity to engage with the local Nung community residing in the village of Phuoc Sen. This mountainous village is renowned for its traditional blacksmithing, where skilled craftsmen forge essential farming tools. These tools play a vital role in the local way of life, as evidenced by the surrounding rice paddies and fields that thrive with their assistance. Amidst these breathtaking landscapes lies the awe-inspiring Ban Gioc Waterfall. Stretching over 300 meters, this majestic waterfall cascades between Vietnam and China, dividing its grandeur equally. Take a moment to absorb the enchanting ambiance enveloping the falls, and seize this perfect opportunity for capturing stunning photographs. After immersing ourselves in the beauty of Ban Gioc Waterfall, we proceed to explore the remarkable Nguom Ngao Cave—a natural wonder of a different kind. Extending a remarkable 2,144 meters underground, the cave boasts an abundance of mesmerizing stalactites and stalagmites, forming a mesmerizing underground spectacle. We then make our way back to Cao Bang town, traversing the renowned "snake pass" en route to Ba Be Lake. Here, nestled amidst captivating surroundings, you will find a homestay built in traditional Tay style, lovingly owned and operated by a local Tay family. Unwind and relax from the day's adventures while relishing a delectable home-cooked meal that truly captures the essence of authenticity. Highlights and activities: Ban Gioc Waterfall, Nguom Ngao Cave, Immersion in Ethnic Villages. Overnight at a homestay with the local community.

After a satisfying breakfast, we commence the final day of our tour by boarding a boat and embarking on a tranquil journey across the captivating Ba Be Lake. As we glide through the calm waters, you have the freedom to choose how to spend your time on the boat. You may opt to simply relax and revel in the breathtaking views that surround you, or take a refreshing swim in the cool waters of the lake. Marvel at the magnificent karst formations enveloping you, adorned with patches of untamed greenery and teeming with diverse wildlife. Continuing along the Nang River, our boat meanders through the enchanting Puong Grotto. Here, you will be awe-struck by the intricate stalactites and stalagmites formed by the ebb and flow of the river over time. Witness the mesmerizing spectacle created by river erosion. Furthermore, keep an eye out for the thriving bat colony that calls this grotto home, adding an extra touch of wonder to the experience. As our tour draws to a close, we embark on a scenic drive back to Hanoi, covering approximately 230 kilometers. Along the way, we make a stop at a charming tea plantation nestled amidst rolling hills. Take in the serene beauty of the surroundings and indulge in the flavors of freshly brewed tea, immersing yourself in the tranquil ambiance. Upon our arrival in Hanoi, it is time to bid farewell, carrying with you the cherished memories and connections forged during this remarkable journey. Highlights and activities: Ba Be Lake Exploration, Puong Cave Discovery, Encounter with Tay Ethnic Villages. Overnight at a hotel in Hanoi.

Indulge in leisurely moments in Hanoi, savoring the freedom to explore at your own pace, until it is time for your departure. Delight in the vibrant atmosphere and cultural treasures that Hanoi has to offer, creating lasting memories of your time in this captivating city. To ensure your smooth transition, we have arranged a private car to transport you to the International Airport. As you bid farewell to Hanoi, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for choosing our services. It has been our pleasure to serve you, and we hope your journey has been filled with joy and unforgettable experiences. Safe travels and until we meet again, farewell!