Explore Northeast Vietnam: Ha Giang to Ba Be Lake

08 Days   View Prices  
    
Ha Giang - Ban Me Village
Ha Giang - Tha Village
Dong Van - Karst Plateau Geopark
Dong Van - Dong Van Market
Dong Van - Hmong King's palace
Dong Van - Twin fairy mountain
Dong Van - Lung Cu Flag tower
Dong Van - Nho Que River
Bao Lac
Ba Be - Dau Dang
Ba Be - Phuong cave
Ba Be Lake
Ba Be - Hua Ma Cave
Overview
north-east-vietnam-adventure.webp
  • Start/End: Hanoi/Hanoi
  • Route: Ha Giang - Dong Van - Bao Lac - Ba Be
  • Duration: 08 Days
  • Theme: Authentic, Active, Mountain & Minority, Nature & Discover
  • Tour type: Private tour
  • Tour schedule: Daily departure
  • Tour guide in: English, Français, Español, Italiano
Highlight

This trip to the Northeast gives you an unprecedented opportunity to discover the hidden landscapes of Vietnam. This journey combines stunning scenery and remote trekking with plenty of encounters with the local people making it a favourite among adventurers and photographers.

  • Encounter with minority groups: Dzao, Bo Y, H'mong, Black Lo Lo, San Chi, Tay
  • Uncharted trekking route in Ha Giang, Dong Van
  • Hiking, biking and boating
  • Stunning mountain landscapes and nature discover: Quan Ba Twin Mountains, Dong Van karst plateau heritage, Ma Pi Leng pass, Ba Be Lake national park & Hua Ma Cave.
  • Excursion to historical land:  "The Windy capital" - Tan Trao
  • Homestay experience
Notes
  • Itinerary for travellers who love trekking and adventure.
  • Winter time (December to January) may be cold and foggy on some days.
  • Bring trekking shoes
  • For more interactions with local people and a more authentic experience, we invite you to stay at a homestay with only basic equipment: clean mattress, pillow, mosquito net, blankets, outside WC and hot water shower. Hotel service is also available, please contact us for more info
Itinerary
Day by day itinerary Expand All
  • Scenic driving route, trekking via Me – Lup – Tha villages

    8:00 AM: Depart from your hotel in Hanoi to Ha Giang via the highway to Phu Tho. Stop to visit the Dao village in Ham Yen, Tuyen Quang. First, discover the houses on stilts, a typical style of ethnic groups in this undulating region.

    Arrive in Ha Giang in the middle of the afternoon, beginning a trek to the Me – Lup – Tha villages. Featuring serene beauty, these villages are made up of hundreds of houses on wooden stilts covered by palm leaves. In front of the houses, there are small ponds for raising fish and water hyacinth cultivations for pigs. You will be welcomed by big smiles from the villagers testifying to their legendary hospitality. Visit a typical house and discover the local daily life. Arrive in Tha Village, a village on the palm hills with rice fields where you can rest in the serenity.

    Finally, check in your accommodation and free to stroll around to catch the rhythm of daily life in the mountain before sunset.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: L, D
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Ha Giang Homestay (Mr Toi) (Sharing homestay)
    Ha Thanh village. Ha Giang city, Ha Giang , Vietnam
    Video:
  • Grandiose mountain range, visiting mountainous villages: Tha, Na Thac, Khuoi My, Lung Vai, Ha Thanh

    8:00 AM: Our adventure begins in Ha Thanh village, where we’ll explore part of the Tay Con Linh Mountain range. This region is renowned for its rice terraces, palm forests, limestone mountains, and numerous hill tribe villages.

    The first part of our journey is mostly uphill and can be a bit challenging, but the effort is well worth it for the stunning natural landscapes along the way. You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of lush valleys and mountain peaks.

    After a few hours, we’ll arrive at Lung Vai village, home to the Dao ethnic group. Here, you'll have time to explore the village and enjoy lunch in a local home.

    After lunch, we’ll take a short break to soak in the views of the rice terraces before following an asphalt road for about 3-4 km to reach Khuoi My village, inhabited by both Dao and Tay ethnic groups. Here, villagers live in simple wooden stilt houses with palm-thatched roofs.

    From Khuoi My, we’ll take a narrow trail winding through rice terraces, tea plantations, and bamboo forests. The path mostly descends, offering splendid views of the terraces and glimpses of daily village life.

    Finally, we’ll reach Thon Tha village, where our adventure concludes.

    Walking distance: approximately 16-18 km

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L, D
    Transportation
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Ha Giang Homestay (Mr Toi) (Sharing homestay)
    Ha Thanh village. Ha Giang city, Ha Giang , Vietnam
    Video:
  • Visiting Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, Twin Fairy mountain, traditional house of Hmong & Bo Y ethnic people, H'mong King’s Palace

    8:00 AM: Travel to Dong Van with the magical landscapes of this region present along the route. Before arrival at the Quan Ba pass, we will stop to visit a village of Bo Y people in the Quyet Tien Commune. Their origin is from China. The Bo Yis a small community of 2000 people who populate in the mountainous parts of the north. Stop at the Quan Ba pass and take a short break to admire Quan Ba town with the famous Twin Fairy Mountain (Nui Co Tien).

    Continue drive to the Limestone rock plateau zone, considered as mountainous Halong Bay. This majestic natural treasure has been listed in the World Geological Park book. On the way, you will discover “Nha Trinh Tuong” (a special type of house) by a walking to the Lung Hoa Village. This is the typical house of Hmong people in the village which is built on sticky ground. Next, visit the Palace of the H'mong King(Dinh Vua Meo). Dating back 100 years ago, far from the plain, the regions of Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Dong Van, Meo Vac created an autonomous zone with their own king. They cultivated poppies and their economy was based on the opium business with China. Arrive in Dong Van, check in accommodation and relax.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L, D
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Hoa Cuong Hotel(Double Room) *or similar hotel
    Dong Van town, Dong Van district, Ha Giang , Vietnam
    Video:
  • Lung Cu flag pole, scenic views, Lo Lo village, trekking in Dong Van, along Nho Que river

    Depart to Lung Cu, located 1470m above sea level. This is well known as a Northern Vietnam landmark. Lung Cu flag pole highlights our nation's sovereignty. Walking up 900 steps will give you the magnificent view of the mountains, valleys and villages in the vicinity then discover the Lo Lo Chai village where the Lo Lo ethnic group lives.

    Return to Dong Van town at noon and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, trek to the villages in Dong Van through Hau De – Ma Pia – Ma Pang Village along the Nho Que river that separates Vietnam and China. Travel back to Dong Van at the end of the day.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L, D
    Transportation
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Hoa Cuong Hotel(Double Room) *or similar hotel
    Dong Van town, Dong Van district, Ha Giang , Vietnam
    Video:
  • Crossing spectacular Ma Pi Leng pass to Bao Lac, visit to villages of Lo Lo & H’mong people

    After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll set off from Dong Van toward Meo Vac, crossing the stunning Ma Pi Leng Pass. Here, you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking views of limestone mountains, the winding Nho Que River, and traditional H'mong village nestled along the slopes.

    From there, we’ll continue to Bao Lac, a region renowned for the Black Lo Lo ethnic community. The area gained prominence through the French documentary, "The Journey into Unknown Land", filmed in Khuoi Khon village—just 9 km from Bao Lac town—by rugby player Frédéric Michalak.

    We’ll enjoy lunch in Bao Lac town before heading to Coc Xa village in Na Van commune. This Lo Lo village retains a more authentic charm compared to Khuoi Khon, which has become a popular tourist spot since the documentary’s release. Here, you’ll stroll through rice fields and scenic trails, visit local homes, and have meaningful exchanges with the residents, giving you a deeper understanding of their way of life and traditions.

    Later, we’ll return to town, where you’ll stay overnight in a local hotel.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L, D
    Transportation
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Duc Tai Hotel(Twin Room) *or similar hotel
    Bao Lac town, Cao Bang , Vietnam
    Video:
  • Encountering San Chi ethnic people in hill villages, transfer to Ba Be, exploring Hua Ma cave

    Depart to Ba Be via Tinh Tuc, 30km from Bao Lac, in Hung Dao commune, there is a beautiful village of San Chi ethnic. Of course, we will stop to visit and discover the beauty of the village. You are one of a small number of travelers who get to visit this area because of its hidden location behind the hill. The village has hundreds of houses on stilts nested on the side of mountains and views of the beautiful valley. To reach to the village, you will have to walk up a 2km steep incline. The higher you walk, the better view you get. Visit a family to understand the authentic life of this ethnic group.

    Continue to Ba Be, where you will be surprised by the magnificent nature where the mountains gently meet the valleys of rice terraces. Stop to film or take photos whenever possible. Upon arrival in Ba Be, check in your accommodation in Pac Ngoi Village and go cycling through several villages of Tay ethnic groups to Hua Ma Cave (5km from the village). This is an attractive place with amazing formations of stalactites and stalagmites. Finally, come back to your accommodation.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L, D
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Ba Be Homestay (Sharing homestay)
    Ba Be lake, Pac Ngoi village, Ba Be district, Bac Kan , Vietnam
    Video:
  • Relaxing boat trip to explore Puong Cave, Dau Dang waterfall

    In the morning, transfer from the village to Buoc Lom Pier to take a boat trip along the Nang river and enjoy the beautiful scenery of forests along the river. The boat will pass through Puong cave, home to thousands of bats, toward Dau Dang waterfall.

    Lunch will be served at a local restaurant by the waterfall. In the afternoon, take the boat back to the lake, stopping at the Fairy pond located in the middle of the primitive forest. Here, you will gently cruise around the lake and it's possible to swim if the weather permits. Disembark at around 04:00 PM. Rest of the day on your own free and easy, enjoy sunset over mountain ranges.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L, D
    Boat: Ba Be
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Ba Be Homestay (Sharing homestay)
    Ba Be lake, Pac Ngoi village, Ba Be district, Bac Kan , Vietnam
    Video:
  • Visiting Tan Trao historical relic, Tay community, meeting local people, transfer to Hanoi

    Enjoy breakfast and pure air in morning at the national park, then travel to Tan Trao, a former Viet Minh resistance base during the first Indochina war. Visit the historic banyan tree, Na Lua shack house and Tan Trao communal house where President Ho Chi Minh and his team lived and worked before August, 1945 Revolution.

    Continue on the less touristic journey which is distinguished by the Tay ethnic villages whose houses stand on stilts, with a backdrop of tea plantation hills, palm plantations and rice valleys. Visit the villages to meet the locals along the way and obviously do not miss some stops to take the photos of the scenery whenever possible.

    Arrive in Hanoi in the late afternoon. Check in at your hotel and enjoy some free time after the mountain getaway.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Video:
Prices
Group size
Sharing Twin/Double Room
Private Single Room

Traveling with more than 8 people? You can select a different group size in the next step.

Group Size 9+
Inclusions
  • English speaking tour guide following itinerary
  • All entrance fees and tickets mention on itinerary
  • Selected Accommodations with daily breakfast
  • Boat: Ba Be
  • Transportation
  • Meal: Breakfast: 07, Lunch: 07, Dinner: 07
  • Service charges and Taxes
Exclusions
  • International flight from/to your country
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Tipping and Gratuities
  • Other not mentioned in the program
Extensions
Why not treat yourself to a relaxing beach break or a cultural discovery?
  • tour
    No results were found
  • tour
    No results were found
  • tour
    No results were found
5.0
00 Reviews
Good to know
  • Passeport & Visa

    Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of arrival in Vietnam and contain a minimum of two blank pages.

    French citizens, as well as nationals of 12 other countries (including Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, and Spain), may enter Vietnam without a visa for stays of up to 45 days. If you plan to stay longer, or if your nationality is not eligible for this exemption, please check with the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate, or feel free to contact us for further information.

  • International flights

    International flights are not included in the price of our tours. You are free to choose and book the flights that best suit your needs and schedule. If you wish, our travel consultants can assist you in finding the best available options.

  • Travel insurance

    Valid travel insurance is mandatory to participate in the tour. It must cover the following:

    • Emergency medical expenses (including hospitalization and repatriation)
    • Trip cancellations or interruptions
    • Activities included in your itinerary, including outdoor excursions

    Before departure, please provide us with the following information:

    • The name of your insurance company
    • Your policy number
    • A 24/7 emergency assistance contact number

    Please check whether your credit card already provides coverage and consider purchasing additional insurance if necessary.

  • Weather & best time to visit Vietnam

    Spring (February to April) and autumn (September to December) are the most pleasant seasons to visit Vietnam, with mild weather and limited rainfall. However, the country stretches over more than 1,600 km, and weather conditions vary significantly. Vietnam can be visited year-round:

    • North: Cool winters (December to February), hot and humid summers.
    • Central: Rainy season from September to November.
    • South: Tropical climate, warm year-round, with frequent showers from May to October.

    Please pack clothing suitable for each region according to your itinerary.

  • Time zone

    Vietnam operates on GMT+7 year-round. There is no seasonal time change.

  • Currency and Payments

    The local currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). US dollars and euros are sometimes accepted in hotels, but this is not guaranteed.

    • Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are accepted in most mid-range to high-end hotels, restaurants, and shops.
    • ATMs are widely available in major cities.
    • Currency exchange is possible at the airport, banks, or authorized exchange offices.

    Tip: Avoid using old, damaged, or torn banknotes, as they are often refused for payment.

  • Domestic flights

    If your tour includes domestic flights, the exact schedules, flight numbers, and relevant details will be provided in your travel documents.

    Please arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure, bringing your passport and electronic ticket (or booking reference).

    Baggage: Checked baggage allowance generally ranges between 20 kg and 23 kg, depending on the airline. Cabin baggage is usually limited to 7 kg.

    Attention: Additional fees may apply if you exceed the permitted limits. We recommend checking the specific conditions of each airline (Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, Bamboo Airways, etc.) before your flight.

    Flight schedules are subject to change by the airline. We will keep you informed in case of any updates.

  • Flight Connections

    If you have a connecting domestic flight in Vietnam, please follow these steps upon arrival:

    • Collect your checked luggage.
    • Proceed through immigration and customs.
    • Make your way to the domestic terminal (at some airports, this may require a walk or a shuttle transfer).

    Airport staff are generally available to assist you if needed. Do not hesitate to ask for help.

    Recommended connection time: minimum 2 hours 30 minutes
    This allows sufficient time for possible flight delays, queues at immigration and customs, and transfers between terminals.

    Practical tip: At major airports such as Hanoi (Noi Bai) or Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat), domestic and international terminals are not always located in the same building. Please allow ample time and follow the signs upon arrival.

  • Vaccinations & Personal Medication

    No mandatory vaccinations are required to enter Vietnam.

    However, health authorities recommend the following vaccinations, especially for long stays or travel in rural areas:

    • Hepatitis A and B
    • Typhoid fever
    • Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (booster shots recommended)
    • Rabies (in case of prolonged stays in rural areas or possible contact with animals)

    If you are undergoing regular medical treatment, please ensure you bring a sufficient supply of medication for the entire duration of your stay.
    Do not forget to carry your prescription, preferably in English, to facilitate any checks or medical consultations on site.

  • Malaria & Mosquitoes

    The risk of malaria is very low in Vietnam’s main tourist areas, including Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, Mai Chau, Pu Luong, Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, and the tourist areas of the Mekong Delta. No malaria prophylaxis is generally recommended for these regions.

    However, if you plan to travel to remote rural, forested, or mountainous areas (for example, Muong Te in Lai Chau, certain border or isolated areas of the northern highlands, or deep areas of the Mekong), you should consult a doctor or a travel medicine clinic to assess the need for preventive treatment.

    Tips to protect yourself from mosquito bites

    • Apply insect repellent to exposed skin containing DEET (30–50%), icaridin, or PMD (citriodiol).
    • Wear long, covering clothing, especially in the early evening and at night.
    • Sleep under a mosquito net, particularly in simple accommodations, natural settings, or places without air conditioning.
    • Use electric diffusers or mosquito coils in the evening in non-air-conditioned areas.
    • Avoid stagnant water near your accommodation, as it is a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
  • Airport Pick-up

    Upon your arrival in Vietnam, our driver will be waiting for you at the airport exit, holding a sign displaying: “IZITOUR – [Your name]”.

    Please take a moment to carefully check the signs at the arrival exit. If you have any difficulty locating our driver, do not hesitate to contact our French-speaking assistance team, available 24/7, at the following number:
    +84 382 536 266 (direct call or WhatsApp available).

    Practical tip: Make sure your phone is activated for international calls or internet access upon arrival to facilitate communication if needed.

    Note: At some airports, several drivers may be waiting at the exit. If you do not immediately find our representative, please remain in the meeting area and contact us — we will assist you promptly.

  • Small Group Tour

    Our small-group tours generally bring together between 4 and 7 participants. You will travel alongside people from diverse backgrounds, with different nationalities, cultures, and ages. This is a great opportunity to share experiences, exchange perspectives, and build meaningful connections throughout the journey.

    To ensure that all planned activities run smoothly, punctuality is essential. Please respect the schedules communicated by your local guide to guarantee an enjoyable and seamless experience for the entire group.

  • Shared and private room

    For group tours, room allocation is based on the gender indicated on your passport. By default, you will share a twin room with a traveler of the same gender.
    You will be accommodated in a single room in the following cases:

    • You prefer to have a single room.
    • No other traveler wishes to share a room.

    In both cases, a single supplement applies. Please contact your travel consultant to check availability and the exact supplement amount.
    Note: This supplement does not apply to train cabins, which include four berths per compartment.

Select Date and Travelers

Price per pax in USD
  • Adult in sharing Twin/double room$1,023
  • Adult in single room $1,084

Write your review

Captcha
Click on the verify code to change to another one. You must type the characters of the image in the text box

    Not the tour you had in mind?



    bg-footer
    Legal license Izitour