A journey through the diverse landscapes of Northern Vietnam, combining the cultural charm of Hanoi, the peaceful valleys of Mai Chau and Pu Luong, the limestone scenery of Ninh Binh and an overnight cruise among the spectacular karst islands of Ha Long Bay.
Meals: Lunch / Dinner
Your journey begins with a discovery of Hanoi, Vietnam's elegant and historic capital.
In the morning, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex, an important historical site and one of the most significant landmarks in Hanoi. Continue to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university, surrounded by beautiful traditional courtyards, gardens and ancient architecture.
Continue to Ngoc Son Temple, located on a small island in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake. The peaceful lake and surrounding streets offer a pleasant introduction to the atmosphere of central Hanoi.
In the afternoon, explore Hanoi's atmospheric Old Quarter on foot. Walk through its narrow streets, traditional houses and lively local markets, discovering the famous "36 streets" and the everyday life of Hanoi's residents.
In the evening, enjoy a Hanoi Street Food Experience. Accompanied by a local guide, discover the flavours of the capital and taste some of Vietnam's most famous dishes, such as Pho, Bun Cha, Banh Cuon, Nem and local snacks.
Overnight in Hanoi.
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch
After breakfast, depart Hanoi and travel towards the beautiful mountains of Hoa Binh Province.
The road gradually leaves the busy city behind and enters a landscape of green mountains, valleys and traditional villages.
Along the way, stop at Da Trang Pass (White Stone Pass), a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the surrounding mountains and valleys. This is a great opportunity to take photographs and enjoy the changing scenery.
Continue to Mai Chau, a peaceful valley surrounded by mountains and home to several ethnic communities, particularly the Thai people.
After arrival, enjoy a traditional lunch served in a local stilt house, where you can discover some of the region's specialities in a friendly and authentic setting.
In the afternoon, explore Mai Chau by electric cart, travelling through villages, rice fields and small local roads. This allows you to discover the countryside comfortably while observing traditional houses and local daily life.
The rest of the afternoon is free to relax or explore the village independently.
Dinner is at leisure.
Overnight in Mai Chau.
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch
After breakfast, leave Mai Chau and continue towards Pu Luong Nature Reserve, one of Northern Vietnam's most beautiful rural destinations.
Pu Luong is known for its spectacular limestone mountains, terraced rice fields, bamboo water wheels and traditional villages. The area offers a peaceful atmosphere and a wonderful opportunity to experience rural Vietnam away from the main tourist routes.
Trekking to Kho Muong Village
Today, enjoy a 2–3 hour walk through the countryside towards Kho Muong Village.
The trail passes through green valleys, rice terraces, forests and traditional villages. Depending on the season, you may see farmers working in the rice fields or buffalo grazing along the paths.
Arrive at Kho Muong, a remote village surrounded by dramatic limestone mountains. The village is home mainly to the Black Thai ethnic community, who continue to maintain their traditional way of life.
Enjoy lunch at a local village restaurant/homestay, with simple and authentic local dishes.
In the afternoon, continue exploring Pu Luong, including Hieu Village and its surrounding countryside. Depending on the season and local conditions, there may be an opportunity to visit the famous Hieu Waterfall and enjoy the peaceful natural environment.
Return to your accommodation in Pu Luong.
Dinner is at leisure.
Overnight in Pu Luong.
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch
After breakfast, depart Pu Luong and travel towards Ninh Binh, one of Northern Vietnam's most spectacular destinations.
Upon arrival, discover the famous Tam Coc landscape, often described as "Ha Long Bay on land".
The area is characterised by towering limestone karsts, peaceful waterways, green rice fields and small rural villages.
Continue to Bich Dong Pagoda, a beautiful traditional Buddhist site built into the limestone mountains. Surrounded by lush vegetation and peaceful countryside, the pagoda provides a fascinating insight into Vietnam's spiritual and architectural heritage.
Later, enjoy a bicycle ride through the countryside. Cycle along small paths between rice fields and limestone mountains, passing local villages and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of rural Ninh Binh.
Return to the hotel and enjoy some free time to relax.
Dinner is at leisure.
Overnight in Ninh Binh.
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
After breakfast, depart Ninh Binh for Ha Long Bay, one of Vietnam's most iconic natural landscapes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Upon arrival at the cruise harbour, board your overnight cruise and receive a warm welcome from the crew.
After check-in, settle into your private cabin and enjoy a welcome drink while the cruise begins sailing through the spectacular limestone islands and emerald waters of the bay.
Life on board
Your private cabin is designed for comfort and relaxation and generally features modern facilities, air conditioning and large windows or a private balcony, allowing you to admire the scenery from the privacy of your room.
During the afternoon, depending on the cruise itinerary and weather conditions, take part in activities such as:
As the sun begins to set, return to the cruise and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Ha Long Bay.
Dinner is served on board, featuring Vietnamese and international dishes, often including fresh seafood and local specialities.
After dinner, enjoy some free time on the sundeck, relax in the lounge or take part in evening activities organised by the cruise, such as squid fishing.
Overnight on board the cruise.
Meals: Breakfast / Brunch
Wake up early to enjoy the peaceful beauty of Ha Long Bay at sunrise. The limestone islands emerging from the morning mist create a spectacular and unforgettable atmosphere.
Enjoy breakfast on board while the cruise continues sailing through the bay.
Depending on the cruise programme, take part in a final activity or simply relax on the sundeck and admire the scenery.
The cruise continues its journey through the bay while a brunch is served on board.
After disembarkation at the harbour, meet your driver and begin the journey back to Hanoi.
Arrival in Hanoi in the afternoon.
End of the tour.
Accommodation in TWN/ DBL sharing accommodation at hotel, except sharing cabin on train and overnight at local homestay
All transport within Vietnam (including airport pick up and see off), as per itinerary
All in-tour stationed local English speaking guide.
Entrance fees for Vietnam attractions, as per itinerary
Meals as indicated in the program
Incoming and out coming flight
French/German/Spanish/Chinese/Russia speaking guides are available upon request. The surcharge will be applied
Beverage, Personal expenses, tips and gratuities
Travel insurance
Single Supplement
Early check-in and Late check-out
Hotel/room upgrade (If not mentioned)
Wire fees or bank transfer charges of all kinds
Others not mentioned or specified above