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In ten days, set off to uncover the treasures of Northern Vietnam, balancing iconic sites with immersion in unspoiled nature. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and outdoor adventure.
Your journey begins with a deep dive into the vibrant atmosphere of Hanoi before heading toward the breathtaking landscapes of Ninh Binh, often called the “terrestrial Halong Bay.” The escape continues in Pu Luong and Hua Tat, where you’ll enjoy an authentic experience in minority villages, far from the usual tourist paths.
Finally, you’ll embark on an unforgettable cruise through Lan Ha Bay, the pristine little sister of Halong Bay, before wrapping up this adventure back in Hanoi.
A complete and immersive itinerary, ideal for discovering the essence of Northern Vietnam through its iconic landmarks and timeless getaways.
Arrival at Hanoi airport at 06:35. Meet your guide and driver, then transfer to your hotel to drop off your luggage. You will start the day gently with a cyclo ride through the Old Quarter of Hanoi, followed by a walking tour to explore some of its main streets and the Ngoc Son Temple on the shores of Hoan Kiem Lake.
Lunch will be served in a local specialty restaurant where you will taste Bun Cha Nem (a noodle soup with grilled pork and spring rolls). In the early afternoon, you will check into your rooms and enjoy some time to rest.
In the afternoon, you can choose between two visits:
The Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, now a temple dedicated to Confucius,
or
The Museum of Ethnology, which offers a fascinating insight into the cultural diversity of Vietnam’s ethnic groups.
Overnight at the hotel.
Departure after breakfast for a visit to Chua Thay Pagoda (Master’s Pagoda), officially named Thien Phuc(“Heavenly Blessing”). Nestled in a serene setting between mountains and a small pond, this pagoda is a true haven of peace. Its water pavilion, where the famous water puppet shows take place, makes it a unique site dedicated to the Buddhas and the master of puppetry.
Continue to the ancient village of Mong Phu (Duong Lam), a living testimony of rural Vietnam of yesteryear. Lunch with a local family in a traditional house over 300 years old, offering an authentic immersion into local culture.
Afternoon: Stroll through the village and rice fields (about 1 hour), followed by a visit to the temples of kings Ngo Quyen and Phung Hung, two major historical figures of Vietnam. Discover Mia Pagoda, famous for its numerous Buddhist statues, then take a walking tour to admire traditional houses and the 18th-century communal house, the heart of village life.
Return to Hanoi at the end of the day.
After breakfast, you will head to Hoa Binh province, home to the Muong ethnic group, covering a mountain range that separates the Red River delta from the Ma River basin. From Hoa Binh city, the road climbs in altitude, crossing the Muong Khen Pass and then winding along a mountainside toward the Thung Nhuôi Pass. Stop for a spectacular panoramic view of the Mai Chau valley from the pass.
You will then continue through stunning high-mountain landscapes toward Moc Chau district. Arrive late morning in the village of Hua Tat, mainly inhabited by the colorful Hmong ethnic group, who have settled on the mountain slopes.
Check in at a rural guesthouse, part of a community-based tourism development project managed by a lovely Hmong couple. After lunch, enjoy a leisurely hike at your own pace through the valley, passing through various villages, cornfields, pine forests, and mountains.
Return to the A Chu homestay, help prepare dinner with the hosts, and enjoy a warm, authentic meal. Overnight at the homestay.
After breakfast, departure for the Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Along the way, several stops will be made to admire the stunning landscapes. Upon arrival in the reserve, you will set off on a hike through picturesque villages, offering a unique glimpse into local life. Lunch will be served in one of these villages, providing an authentic culinary experience.
In the afternoon, the hike continues through lush scenery before transferring to your eco-lodge. Dinner at your leisure and overnight stay at the lodge.
Breakfast at the lodge. In the morning, set off for an exceptional day of hiking through traditional villages and across stunning terraced rice fields. Along the way, admire the iconic wooden water wheels, a symbol of local ingenuity.
You will then reach Hieu village, where lunch will be served in an authentic and charming setting. Afterward, take time to explore the surroundings, including its beautiful waterfall, perfect for a refreshing break.
Return to the eco-lodge in the afternoon. Dinner at your leisure and overnight at the lodge.
Breakfast at the lodge, then depart for Ninh Binh province, often called the “Halong Bay on land.” Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy lunch in Tam Coc.
In the afternoon, visit Bich Dong Pagoda and climb to the top of Mua Mountain for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Tam Coc valley. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon to relax by the pool.
Dinner at your leisure and overnight at the hotel.
Breakfast at your hotel, then depart by car for the Trang An site. Enjoy a morning sampan boat ride to avoid the crowds. Afterwards, visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam.
Lunch in the Trang An area. In the afternoon, visit the Phat Diem Cathedral, renowned for its impressive blend of Western and Eastern architectural styles. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon.
Dinner at your leisure and overnight at the hotel.
Depart at 07:30 for Haiphong province. After crossing the Tan Vu Bridge—the longest bridge in Southeast Asia spanning the sea—you will take a ferry to the Phu Long pier on Cat Ba Island. Upon arrival, transportation will take you to the small port of Ben Beo, where your junk boat is docked.
Around 12:30, embark on a 23-hour cruise through Lan Ha Bay. Enjoy lunch on board as the junk sails past the fishing village of Hang Vem. Activities include swimming, kayaking, or relaxing on the upper deck while admiring the bay’s stunning scenery. Dinner and overnight on board the junk.
Breakfast will be served at 07:00. This day is dedicated to relaxing and enjoying the scenery. The crew will inform you when kayaking and swimming sessions are scheduled. Lunch and dinner are served on board. Overnight on the junk.
Breakfast on the junk. The boat then sails toward the Viet Hai village. Upon arrival, enjoy a bicycle or electric car touracross a small pass to discover the village and local life. You may also relax on the deck if you prefer not to visit Viet Hai. Return to the junk to check out by 10:00 while the boat heads to Ben Beo pier. Lunch is served around 11:00. Disembarkation is scheduled for 11:30. Your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to Hanoi.
All our tours are private. You will travel with your own vehicle, driver, and guide, ensuring maximum comfort and flexibility throughout your journey.
Private tours for solo travelers are significantly more expensive, and most guides are unwilling to lead one-person tours. Therefore, this itinerary is available starting from 2 travelers.
If you’re traveling alone, we can offer day trips or short excursions instead.
No, our tours begin upon your arrival in Vietnam.
However, we’re happy to assist you in booking your international flights if needed.
You’ll find the ideal travel period in the “Practical Info” section, based on the climate in the regions visited.
That said, this tour is available year-round, with a few adjustments depending on the season.
This itinerary is perfect for travelers seeking cultural discovery and immersion in nature.
It can be adapted for couples, families, or groups of friends of all ages.
Absolutely! All our tours are fully customizable.
You can modify the duration, change accommodations, add activities, or adjust the pace according to your preferences.
Simply send us a request using the contact form on this page.
One of our travel advisors will get back to you quickly to finalize your itinerary and provide a personalized quote.
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Let’s talk and tailor it to your wishes.
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