Vietnam Adventure 17 Days

Today, your private guide and driver will take you on a tour of Hanoi’s top attractions, and then explore authentic local cuisine away from the usual tourist spots. Begin your day at the Ho Chi Minh Memorial Complex, exploring the Mausoleum and his House on Stilts. Then, stroll through quaint lanes to Huu Tiep Lake and visit a centuries-old temple and the B52 crash site, a historical relic. Explore the Museum of Ethnology before enjoying a traditional Pho noodle soup for lunch and learn about local meal traditions.

In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Literature and Hoa Lo prison, and enjoy a captivating cyclo ride through the French colonial precinct, passing historic landmarks. Pause at Pho Co Café for Egg coffee with stunning views. Conclude the day with a walking tour of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, immersing yourself in the vibrant street food scene. Sample delights like green papaya salad, Banh Mi Pa Te, and the iconic Bun Cha, all while seated on tiny plastic stools in charming back alleys.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight in Hanoi.

After breakfast, start your journey to the historic village of Duong Lam, a rare example of a fully preserved traditional town. Here, you will explore by bicycle, visiting key landmarks, with a particular highlight being the beautiful communal house in the Mong Phu district. Then continue the journey to Nghia Lo, situated in a vast rice bowl surrounded by mountains. Lunch will be enjoyed at a local restaurant along the way.

Afterward, embark on a trip to a Thai village near Van Chan, followed by Nghia Lo, where you can explore French remnants like old military barracks and a cathedral. Your day concludes with accommodation at Mrs. Loan’s home in the Sa Ren village, where you’ll have dinner and spend the night.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Overnight in Nghia Lo.

After breakfast, travel along the picturesque mountain road to Mu Cang Chai, where you’ll arrive just in time for lunch. On the way, you’ll make stops in the Black Hmong villages. In the afternoon, there’s an approximately 1.5-hour hike to explore the Thai villages.

The mesmerizing landscape, characterized by geometric, shimmering terraced rice fields, is a testament to the incredible work and time invested in blending agriculture and aesthetic beauty. You’ll be accommodated in a stilt house at Mrs. Chon’s place. Enjoy dinner and spend the night with a local host in Mu Cang Chai.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Overnight in Mu Cang Chai.

After breakfast, embark on a remarkable journey from Mu Cang Chai to Sapa, two picturesque destinations in the Northern Vietnam region. This scenic route promises a mesmerizing blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. En route, stop at Binh Lu for a visit to the local market (depending on the market day). Continuing your journey, you’ll venture towards Sapa. Established as a hill station by the French in 1922, Sapa today is a must-visit destination in the Northwest.

Upon arriving in Sapa, you’ll find yourself surrounded by stunning mountain vistas and a climate that invites relaxation and exploration. From here, a range of exciting activities and cultural encounters await, including trekking through the villages and connecting with ethnic minority tribes. Enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure. Check in at your hotel and settle in for a restful night in Sapa.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch,
Overnight in Sapa.

After breakfast, embark on an exhilarating journey through Sapa’s natural wonders, beginning with the iconic Fansipan. Known as the “Roof of Indochina,” Fansipan beckons with its towering presence. Ascend to its summit and revel in the rewarding panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscapes, making this trek a true adventure seeker’s delight.

Next, venture to the Silver Waterfall, a marvel of nature’s beauty. As the waters cascade gracefully down the mountainside, you’ll find yourself enchanted by the shimmering spectacle and the tranquil atmosphere.

Finally, the road leads to the majestic Heaven’s Gate, or “O Quy Ho Pass.” Here, you’ll be greeted by sweeping views of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, dominated by the mighty Fansipan. As you ascend, be sure to keep your camera ready to capture the mesmerizing scenery unfolding before your eyes. This route offers a remarkable blend of adventure, natural splendor, and breathtaking views, making it an unforgettable exploration of Sapa’s most iconic attractions.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch.
Overnight in Sapa.

This morning, you will visit either the vibrant Can Cau Market (on Saturday) or the lively Bac Ha Market (on Sunday). These markets serve as a gathering point for ethnic minorities in the region, with the majority being the colorful Flower Hmong. Held once a week, these markets are not just about shopping, they’re a celebration of culture and tradition.

After your enriching market experience, your journey continues towards Hoang Su Phi. Nestled in the northernmost reaches of Vietnam, Hoang Su Phi is a land of lush terraced rice fields and rich cultural diversity. Savor a delicious lunch at a local restaurant before embarking on an afternoon stroll around the picturesque Nam Hong village. Here, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the local culture and embrace the breathtaking natural scenery.

As the day winds down, you’ll enjoy dinner and spend the night with a local host, offering you a unique opportunity to connect with the community and gain a deeper understanding of life in Hoang Su Phi.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Overnight in Hoang Su Phi.

This morning, your day begins with an invigorating hike from Nam Hong village to the bustling Thong Nguyen Market. Along the way, you’ll pass through Dzao ethnic villages and traverse through stunning terraced rice fields, immersing yourself in the rich local culture and breathtaking landscapes. After your morning adventure, recharge with a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, your journey continues to Ha Giang, where you’ll be treated to even more awe-inspiring scenery, including the captivating terraced rice fields that this region is known for. Arriving in the late afternoon, you’ll find yourself in the charming village of Tha, nestled in a vast valley primarily inhabited by the Tay ethnic group. Take a stroll through the village, admiring the beautiful houses, gardens, and lush rice fields surrounding it.

You’ll have an overnight stay in a cozy family-run guesthouse that offers modern amenities, including hot water showers, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Enjoy a delightful dinner and spend the night in the welcoming village of Tha, hosted by the residents of Ha Giang.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Overnight in Ha Giang.

After breakfast, embark on a 150 km mountainous journey to Dong Van Karst Plateau, near the Chinese border, passing through scenic mountain passes and valleys with occasional stops based on traveler requests or guide recommendations. Upon reaching Yen Minh town, explore two significant sites: the border village of Pho Bang, inhabited by the Hoa people, and the historic Vuong family’s fortified palace, known as the Hmong King’s Palace, showcasing local affluence during French colonial rule.

Arrive in Dong Van town by late afternoon, a well-preserved historic district. Located in Vietnam’s far north, the Dong Van Karst Plateau is a UNESCO-listed GEOPARK known for its stunning limestone peaks This region is characterized by a series of barren and rugged limestone peaks. It is predominantly inhabited by the Hmong people, a mountainous population facing challenging living conditions due to limited water and arable land.

Spend the night in a Dong Van hotel, immersing yourself in this unique culture and remarkable landscape.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch,
Overnight in Dong Van.

After breakfast, immerse yourself in the vibrant Dong Van Market (every Sunday), where people from the entire region gather to exchange their goods. Following this, embark on a one-hour journey to Meo Vac via the Ma Pi Leng Pass, with stops at breathtaking viewpoints along the way. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Meo Vac.

In the afternoon, continue your journey to Bao Lac and visit the Khuoi Khon village, home to the Black Lolo people. The Lolo people are known for their slash-and-burn rice cultivation and terraced rice farming. Engaging in their daily activities is the best way to immerse yourself in their culture and connect with the local population. Explore one of the country’s smallest ethnic minorities, often referred to as a “minority within the minority.” The chosen village is nestled in a valley, beneath a small mountain range, comprising about seventy families, or roughly three hundred people.

Your night will be spent in Bao Lac, offering you the chance to experience the culture and traditions of this unique community.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch,
Overnight in Bao Lac.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast in Bao Lac before setting out towards Cao Bang. Embark on a captivating journey from Bao Lac to Cao Bang, a scenic route filled with natural wonders and cultural discoveries. As you make your way through picturesque landscapes, winding roads, and charming villages, you’ll enjoy the beauty of the Vietnamese countryside. Along the way, take time to visit the local village. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.

Finally, arrive in Cao Bang in the late afternoon, where you can check into your chosen accommodation. Spend the evening at your leisure, perhaps exploring the local cuisine or relaxing after a day of adventure.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch.
Overnight in Cao Bang.

After breakfast, get ready to embark on the journey to visit Ban Gioc Waterfall where you will have an up-close encounter with one of Vietnam’s most exquisite natural wonders as you board a bamboo raft. This unique experience allows you to get intimately acquainted with the sheer beauty of the waterfall.

Following this awe-inspiring adventure, your journey continues with a visit to the Nguom Ngao limestone Cave, located just 2 km away from Ban Gioc Waterfall. Explore the cave’s intriguing formations and immerse yourself in the fascinating underground world, adding depth to your exploration of this remarkable natural area.

Spend dinner and night in a local homestay in Ban Gioc, immersing yourself in this unique culture and remarkable landscape.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Overnight in Ban Gioc.

Embark on a smooth journey from Ban Gioc to Ba Be, savoring the scenic beauty and tranquility of the Vietnamese countryside along the way. As you travel through picturesque landscapes and winding roads, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the changing scenery outside your window, be sure to keep your camera ready to capture the mesmerizing scenery unfolding before your eyes. Take in the sights and sounds of rural Vietnam as you make your way to the serene Ba Be Lake.

Upon arrival, check into your chosen accommodation and take the evening to unwind and relax in this tranquil natural setting.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Ba Be.

After breakfast, board a boat on the Nang River, heading towards Ba Be Lake, the largest natural lake in Vietnam. You will enjoy the dramatic landscapes of chalky cliffs, not bare, but with small wild gardens clinging to the flanks and lianas with their long roots seeking the earth. During the cruise, make stops at Puong Cave and the Cam Ha village, inhabited by the Tay ethnic minority.

Afterward, return to homestay for some downtime before leaving the serene natural setting behind and heading to Hanoi.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch,
Overnight in Hanoi.

After breakfast at your hotel, you leave Hanoi for Halong Bay. The journey is through the rich farmlands where you can observe everyday life of Vietnamese villagers. Arriving in Halong Bay in the late morning and you will board a traditional “junk” boat. You will begin a relaxing and unforgettable cruise around the breathtaking and unique limestone karsts and islets. A delicious fresh seafood lunch will be served as you cruise this spectacular bay, a UNESCO listed site.

Towards the end of the day the boat sets anchor for the night. As the sun sets over the bay, dinner is served with fresh seafood, salad, and fruit. You will spend the night in your private cabin aboard the junk in Halong Bay.

Notes: The program may differ slightly based on the junk cruise’s itinerary.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Overnight on cruise.

Begin your day with the serene practice of Tai Chi, a local custom that eases you into the morning. Join a ‘Local Specialist’ on the deck of the Junk boat amidst the exquisite natural surroundings. There’s time for an early morning swim at one of Halong Bay’s peaceful beaches, and for the more adventurous, take a kayak and paddle through the Dark and Bright Caves, admiring the glistening stone walls.

Return to the junk boat, check out of your cabin, and savor a sumptuous brunch buffet as you cruise back to port. Disembark around midday for your return journey to Hanoi. Upon arrival in Hanoi, relax at the hotel or start exploring the nightlife city at your own pace.

Meals included: Breakfast, Brunch.
Overnight in Hanoi.

Your remaining time is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Depending on the departure time of your flight, our private driver will be ready to pick you up from your hotel and transport you to the airport for your outbound journey.

As we bid you farewell, we extend our best wishes for a safe and pleasant flight departure. This marks the end of your tour, and we hope you carry the memories of your journey with you for years to come.