Best of North Viet Nam 7 days

DAY 1: HA NOI ARRIVAL

Upon reaching Hanoi, complete the immigration and visa on arrival process at the airport. Meet our driver at the airport and board your transfers to reach the pre-booked hotel.

 

Complete the check-in procedure at the hotel and get ready to explore this capital city of Vietnam.

 

Free time for leisure to enjoy Old Quarter to enjoy the bustling local life. This bustling area of narrow streets and alleys is home to literally thousands of small businesses and shopkeepers.

 

It's a great place to explore with plenty of photo opportunities all around you. Return back to the hotel for an overnight stay.

 

DAY 2: HOA LU – TAM COC – MUA CAVE DAY TRIP

After getting up and enjoy your tasty breakfast at hotel in Hanoi, be ready to get picked up by our friendly guide then depart for Ninh Binh province. On the way, you will have a short break for 15 – 20 minutes to relax. 

 

Then reach Ninh Binh after approximately 2 hours. You will visit Hoa Lư, ancient capital of Vietnam between 968 and 1010. You have a chance to learn about Vietnamese history in the feudal system under Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasty. 

 

Then in the middle of day, you will have lunch in the restaurant with a lot of local foods such as goat meat, fish, chicken, fried rice…. Vegetarian foods are always available in the buffet lunch.

 

After lunch, you will visit Tam Coc by 1.5-hour bamboo boat. You will be surprised by the charming beauty her with paddy fields, river, water, cloud, sky, and a stunning cave system during the boat trip. All make a masterpiece that the Vietnamese people called “Ha Long Bay on land”. 

 

Continue the tour for 45 mins - cycling around the village to discover the life of the local people.

 

Get back to the bus then leave for Mua Cave (Dancing Cave). Walk up almost 500 steps, you can  reach the top of Lying Dragon Mountain & have an amazing panoramic view of Tam Coc from here. 

 

After the tour ends, you will get on the bus to return to Hanoi and drop you off at hotel at Hanoi Old Quarter.

 

DAY 3: HA NOI – HA LONG BAY

Indulge in a sumptuous breakfast at your hotel and gear up for an exciting excursion to the stunning Halong Bay.

 

Embark on a fascinating journey through the Red River Delta, where you can witness the day-to-day lifestyle of the Vietnamese villagers. Upon arrival at Halong, hop on board a luxurious cruise ship and receive a warm welcome from the friendly crew members.

 

In the afternoon, explore some of the hidden gems scattered across the Bay of the Descending Dragon. Get enchanted by the fascinating caves, pristine beaches, picturesque floating villages, and incredible rock formations emerging from the emerald waters.

 

Relish a delectable lunch on board and enjoy some leisure time. You can learn the art of making spring rolls by attending the chef's cooking demonstration or simply relax and soak in the breathtaking views.

 

As the sun sets, marvel at the stunning colors painting the sky while lounging on the sundeck of your cruise. In the evening, treat your taste buds to a delicious dinner accompanied by a wide selection of wines and beverages (additional cost for drinks). You can also choose to unwind by watching a movie, go squid fishing or enjoy a drink surrounded by the majestic limestone rocks rising out of the calm waters.

 

Stay overnight on the luxurious cruise amidst the tranquil and captivating Halong Bay.

 

DAY 4: HA LONG BAY – HA NOI - SAPA

Experience the enchantment of a new day in Halong Bay as you rise early and behold the mesmerizing sunrise casting its golden hues over the vast bay. Engage in a revitalizing Tai Chi session on the Sundeck, allowing the gentle movements to invigorate your body and rejuvenate your spirit. Begin your day with a light and nourishing breakfast, preparing you for the adventures that lie ahead. Indulge in a delightful brunch adorned with vibrant colors as you continue your cruise through this picturesque haven.

 

Embark on a captivating exploration of Halong Bay, navigating through over 2000 islets that dot the azure waters. Discover the awe-inspiring caves, each adorned with natural wonders that will leave you breathless. Unwind on stunning beaches, basking in the warmth of the sun's rays while reveling in the serenity that surrounds you. Immerse yourself in the charm of the floating villages, capturing the essence of traditional life amidst this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take your time to savor the beauty that unfolds before your eyes, capturing timeless moments through your lens and allowing the tranquility of nature to wash over you.

 

As the day draws to a close, return to the vibrant city of Hanoi. Around 4.00 pm, get back to our office in Hanoi. Here, you can safely store your belongings, freshen up with a refreshing shower, and indulge in a delectable dinner of your own before embarking on an extraordinary overnight train journey to Sapa.

 

At 10.00 pm, the night train departs from Hanoi, carrying you towards the captivating destination of Lao Cai. Allow the rhythmic motion of the train to lull you into a restful sleep, as anticipation for the wonders that await in Sapa fills your dreams.

 

DAY 5: SAPA – LAO CHAI - TAVAN

*Optional: Trekking by the less busy way and stay in the homestay with local people!

 

6.00: Meet our driver at Lao Cai Train Station then wait to be whisked away to the enchanting town of Sapa, nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes. Relax and take in the mesmerizing views during the scenic uphill drive, which grants you an initial glimpse of the awe-inspiring vistas and the magnificent rice terraces that grace this region.

 

Upon reaching your destination, be warmly received at the hotel. If your room is available, an early check-in will be arranged for your comfort. Alternatively, during the interim, you will be provided access to a basic room where you can refresh yourself before indulging in a delightful breakfast.

 

At 09:30, let the adventure unfold as you embark on a 6-kilometer trek downhill towards the Southeast of Sapa, traversing the captivating Muong Hoa Valley towards Y Linh Ho village, the ancestral abode of the Black H'mong people. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of this community as you stroll through their village, taking in the sights, sounds, and traditions that define their way of life. Continuing onwards, an additional 3-kilometer trek leads you to the picturesque Lao Chai village, where a delectable lunch awaits. Delight in the flavors of the region, nourishing both your body and soul.

 

Resume your trek, meandering through the terraced rice fields that stretch as far as the eye can see, ultimately arriving at the charming Ta Van village, home to the Tay minority. This portion of the trek, while relatively easy, may present some challenges if rain has rendered the trails slippery. It is advisable to wear appropriate footwear, ensuring your safety and comfort.

 

As the clock nears 15:00, embark on a shared bus journey back to Sapa, where you will check back into the hotel. With the remainder of the day at your leisure, seize the opportunity to explore the vibrant Sapa town, with its bustling market brimming with an array of vibrant handicrafts. Immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance, discovering treasures that serve as delightful mementos of your Sapa sojourn.

 

Overnight in Sapa town (homestay available upon request).

 

DAY 6: SAPA – CAT CAT VILLAGE- HANOI

Commence the second day of your remarkable journey after a delightful breakfast at 8:00 AM. Prepare to venture into the captivating villages situated in the southwest region of Sapa, approximately 4 kilometers away. Your first destination is Cat Cat village, a charming enclave that serves as the ancestral home of the Black H'mong community.

 

As you embark on this trek, be prepared to feast your eyes upon breathtaking vistas that unfold before you. Admire the enchanting beauty of a picturesque waterfall, cascading gracefully amidst the lush surroundings. Witness the vestiges of a hydro-electric power station, a testament to the region's history, dating back to the early 20th century.

 

Immerse yourself in the local way of life as you observe villagers diligently tending to the fertile paddy rice fields. Capture heartwarming moments of children joyfully playing, while water buffaloes, pot-bellied pigs, and chickens add to the bucolic ambiance. Take advantage of the opportunity to capture up-close photographs, preserving these precious memories.

 

At noon, satiate your hunger with a delectable lunch served in the town, savoring the flavors of the region while immersed in the cultural tapestry that surrounds you.

 

*Optional: Overnight train back to Hanoi (ask for the prices)

 

At 2:00 PM, embark on a comfortable VIP sleeper cabin bus, transporting you back to the bustling city of Hanoi. Relax and enjoy the journey as you traverse the scenic landscapes, reflecting upon the captivating experiences of your Sapa adventure. Anticipate arriving in Hanoi in the evening, around 8:00 PM, where you will spend the night in this vibrant city.

 

Allow yourself to unwind and reflect upon the wonders you have encountered, relishing in the memories of the past days while preparing for future adventures that lie ahead.

 

DAY 7: DEPARTURE

Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at the hotel and bid farewell to the friendly hotel staff. Check out from the hotel and board your comfortable transfer to the airport, where you will embark on your journey back home with a heart full of unforgettable memories and experiences from your amazing Vietnam Tour.