Upon your arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you’ll be greeted by our driver waiting outside the arrival hall. You’ll then enjoy a 45-minute drive to the heart of Hanoi, passing over the Red River, where you can catch a glimpse of the city’s unique architecture and its famously bustling traffic.

Once you arrive in the Old Quarter, the driver will drop you off at your hotel.

The rest of the day is free for you to explore Hanoi at your own pace. You may choose to enjoy a relaxing spa massage, browse local shops for souvenirs, or join an exciting Jeep adventure around the city. 

Notes: Please note that these activities are provided as suggestions only and are not included in the tour price.

8:00: Depart from your hotel in Hanoi and head towards Ha Giang, traveling via the highway through Phu Tho. Along the way, take a break to visit a Dao village in Ham Yen, Tuyen Quang. Here, you'll get a chance to explore the stilt houses, a distinctive architectural style of the ethnic groups in this mountainous region. 

Upon arrival in Ha Giang, we'll check into our homestay, then enjoy a leisurely walk through rice fields and peaceful Tay villages along small concrete paths nestled beneath lush green mountains. Along the route, admire picturesque rural scenery dotted with palm forests, traditional stilt houses, and expansive valley views.

Discover the daily life and culture of the Tay ethnic community as you pass through Ha Thanh, Tan Tien, and Cuong Thinh villages. There may also be opportunities to visit local homes and interact with welcoming villagers, offering a genuine insight into life in the highlands.

Walking distance: approximately 4-6 km

8:30: Depart for Dong Van through the magical landscapes of northern Vietnam, where stunning scenery unfolds along the route.

Before reaching the Quan Ba Pass, stop to visit a Bo Y ethnic village in Quyet Tien Commune. Originally from China, the Bo Y are a small community of around 2,000 people who inhabit the remote mountainous areas of the north.

Pause at the Quan Ba viewpoint for a short break and take in the panoramic views over Quan Ba town and the iconic Twin Fairy Mountains (Núi Cô Tiên).

Continue the drive toward the Limestone Plateau, often called the “mountainous Halong Bay.” This extraordinary karst region is recognized in the World Geological Park listings for its geological and cultural significance. Make a stop at Lung Tam weaving cooperative, a community initiative run by Hmong women. Here, you’ll get a closer look at the traditional techniques of hemp weaving and indigo dyeing - a beautiful cultural craft that has been passed down through generations.

Following lunch at a local restaurant along the way, enjoy a short walk to Lung Hoa Village, where you’ll see Nhà Trình Tường – traditional rammed-earth houses built by the Hmong people. These homes are known for their durability and harmony with the environment.

Next, visit the Palace of the Hmong King (Dinh Vua Mèo). Built over a century ago, this historic residence reflects a time when the regions of Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Dong Van, and Meo Vac were part of an autonomous zone ruled by the Hmong. During this period, poppy cultivation was widespread, and the local economy thrived on the opium trade with China.

Arrive in Dong Van, check in to your accommodation, and enjoy some time to relax.

8:30: Depart from Dong Van and head toward Bao Lac, with a stop along the way at the Happy Road Museum. This small yet moving museum pays tribute to the monumental efforts of tens of thousands of young volunteers who carved the "Happy Road" through the mountains in the 1950s - a symbol of unity and resilience in post-war Vietnam.

From there, take a scenic Skypath walk starting with a gentle climb to God’s Cliff, offering panoramic views of the Nho Que River and limestone peaks. Descend into a peaceful valley, passing Hmong farmers and learning about their unique stone niche farming before ending near a local kindergarten, where you’ll rejoin your vehicle, and continue to Bao Lac.

Lunch at a local restaurant.

The afternoon is dedicated to exploring the rich cultural heritage of the Black Lo Lo people, with a visit to either Khuoi Khon or Coc Xa village. Both destinations are nestled high in the mountains, offering a peaceful escape well-detached from the bustle of modern city life. Khuoi Khon village provides a look into the community that once welcomed French rugby player Frédéric Michalak during the filming of the television documentary "The Journey into Unknown Land". Meanwhile, Coc Xa village offers an equally wonderful setting to observe the community's time-honored character and traditional mountain lifestyle. Depending on the route and timing, a visit to either village ensures an authentic encounter with the unique architecture and enduring customs of the Black Lo Lo community.

Once in the village, take a stroll through the narrow paths, visit a traditional Lo Lo home, and enjoy meaningful exchanges with your host. This intimate encounter offers valuable insight into the community’s daily life, cultural heritage, and enduring traditions.

Afterward, return to Bao Lac town and check in at a local hotel.

8:30: We set off for Ban Gioc, following a scenic route via Khau Coc Cha Pass. Though only 2.5 kilometers long, this steep mountain pass features 15 tiers and 14 sharp bends, offering an unforgettable ride through dramatic, rugged landscapes.

Descending from the pass, we reach the peaceful Xuan Truong Valley, a beautiful area of wide rice fields and traditional stilt houses. Here, you have the opportunity to visit a local family—an authentic experience that offers insight into daily life and cultural traditions in this remote region.

The journey continues over Na Tenh Pass, where panoramic views of rolling green mountains and quiet valleys unfold.

Lunch is served at a local restaurant.

Upon arrival in Ban Gioc, check in at a local hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

8:30: We begin the day with a short transfer to Nguom Ngao Cave, peacefully set in the quiet Maize Valley. Stretching over two kilometers, this remarkable cave is filled with glittering stalactites and stalagmites shaped over millions of years. Beyond its natural beauty, it also holds historical significance, having sheltered thousands of villagers during the Vietnam–China border conflict in 1979.

Next, we continue to Ban Gioc Waterfall, a striking natural wonder located on the border between Vietnam and China. Rising 30 meters high and spanning 208 meters wide, it is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country.

Lunch is served at a local restaurant.

After lunch, we depart for Cao Bang city. On the way back, we stop at Phuc Sen village, known for its long-standing blacksmithing tradition. Local artisans still craft knives, farming tools, and household items by hand, using techniques passed down through generations. A visit to one of the family-run forges offers a closer look at this enduring craft and its role in daily rural life.

Later in the afternoon, we visit Phia Thap incense village, a peaceful Nung ethnic community renowned for its traditional incense-making craft. Made from natural forest ingredients, the incense reflects generations of local knowledge and craftsmanship. Here, you will gain insight into the meticulous production process, from selecting and preparing raw materials to hand-rolling each incense stick.

Upon arrival in Cao Bang, check in at a local hotel for an overnight stay.

8:30: We’ll drive to Ba Be Lakes, a stunning destination tucked away in the heart of Ba Be National Park. As one of Vietnam’s largest natural freshwater lakes, Ba Be is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and growing reputation as an ecotourism haven. The journey takes around four hours, offering glimpses of rural life and scenic countryside along the way.

Upon arrival, we embark on a scenic boat trip from Cao Thuong Pier. Cruising downstream along the Nang River, we pass through Puong Cave, an impressive limestone tunnel carved by the river and home to thousands of bats. Disembarking briefly, we explore the cave on foot before continuing our journey.

The cruise then brings us to Dau Dang Waterfall, a dramatic series of cascades where the Nang River squeezes between towering limestone cliffs. We enjoy a leisurely walk to discover this powerful and atmospheric site, surrounded by dense forest and striking rock formations.

Next, the boat glides onto the tranquil waters of Ba Be Lakes, Vietnam’s largest natural freshwater lake system and the heart of Ba Be National Park. Comprising three interconnected lakes - Pe Leng, Pe Lu, and Pe Lam - the area is renowned for its calm emerald waters, limestone mountains, and rich biodiversity.

As we cruise across the lake, we pass the iconic Widow Islet (An Ma Islet), a small limestone outcrop steeped in local legend. We then disembark and take a short walk to our homestay in Pac Ngoi Village, where the Tay ethnic community lives along the lakeshore, offering a warm welcome and a peaceful setting for the night.

8:30: After breakfast, you can choose to travel by car or cycle from your homestay in Pac Ngoi, passing through peaceful Tay ethnic villages along the lakeshore and surrounding countryside, to reach Hua Ma Cave, located about 5 km from the village.

Hidden within a limestone mountain, Hua Ma Cave is known for its impressive chambers and remarkable formations of stalactites and stalagmites, illuminated to highlight the cave’s dramatic natural shapes. We take time to explore this fascinating site before returning to Pac Ngoi and your homestay.

Transfer back to Hanoi. The journey takes approximately five hours, ending with drop-off at your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

8:30: Start your day at the Temple of Litterature, founded in the 11th century under the Ly dynasty to honor Confucius and educate royal scholars. Stroll through its peaceful courtyards and gardens until you reach Khue Van Cac, the iconic pavilion that symbolizes Hanoi. Continue to the UNESCO-recognized stone steles, which record the names of Vietnam’s most outstanding graduates, before exploring Quoc Tu Giam, regarded as the country’s first national university.

Next, visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (closed on Mondays), an engaging institution that offers deep insight into the cultures of Vietnam’s many ethnic groups. Its rich collection includes traditional costumes, agricultural tools, musical instruments, and life-size replicas of ethnic minority houses. A full visit typically takes about two hours.

For lunch, enjoy one of Hanoi’s most beloved dishes: cha ca, fragrant turmeric-marinated grilled fish served with fresh herbs, rice noodles, and a tangy dipping sauce — a true staple of the capital’s culinary heritage.

In the afternoon, continue with an exterior visit of Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, then enjoy a relaxing walk through the nearby botanical gardens to see the simple House on Stilts, where Ho Chi Minh once lived and worked. Conclude this section of the tour at the unique One-Pillar Pagoda, one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks.

For a delightful gourmet pause, settle onto a small stool inside a traditional tube house and savor a cup of egg coffee - a creamy specialty born during the French colonial era. Made from whipped egg yolk and rich Vietnamese coffee, this iconic drink remains a local favorite.

End your day with a stroll through the atmospheric Old Quarter. Originating in the 15th century as a busy trading hub, its famed “36 streets” each once specialized in a particular craft or product. Today, the Old Quarter is a vibrant open-air museum of living history, with narrow alleyways, tube houses, small temples, bustling markets, and irresistible street food creating an unforgettable sensory experience.

In the evening, Afterward, enjoy a unique water puppet show, a traditional art form that first appeared in the 11th century. In these performances, the daily life, culture, and beliefs of the Vietnamese people are beautifully depicted by puppets on water, accompanied by a traditional live music performance.

8:30: Meet your tour guide and driver at hotel then transfer to Ninh Binh, the awesome site is enriched with historical, cultural, religion and geographic wonders. On the journey passing the Red River delta, stop as you wish for pictures.

Upon arrival, we make our first stop in Tam Coc, often referred to as “Halong Bay on land” for its spectacular karst scenery rising from emerald rice fields. This picturesque landscape also appeared in the famous French movie Indochina. Enjoy a private sampan boat ride along the peaceful Ngo Dong River, drifting through three natural caves while taking in a harmonious blend of limestone formations, rice paddies, and rural village life.

After the boat ride, we visit Thai Vy Temple, a serene and lesser-known sanctuary nestled among rice fields and limestone mountains. Dedicated to the Tran Dynasty kings, the temple honors Emperor Tran Thai Tong and his successors, who led Vietnam during a golden age in the 13th century. Built entirely of stone, the temple stands out for its simple yet elegant architecture and its tranquil atmosphere, offering a deeper insight into Vietnam’s royal and spiritual heritage away from the crowds.

Following lunch, we transfer to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam in the 10th century. Here, we visit two historic temples dedicated to Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang (r. 968–980) and Emperor Le Dai Hanh (r. 980–1009), the founders of the first independent Vietnamese dynasties after nearly a thousand years of Chinese domination. Although the temples were rebuilt in the 17th century, they continue to symbolize deep national respect for these emperors and feature traditional Vietnamese architecture set against a dramatic limestone backdrop.

Later in the day, we meet our driver and continue the journey to Van Long Nature Reserve.

8:30: The cycling experience begins as you set off by bicycle towards Thung La Temple. Following quiet country paths, you cycle through rice fields, ponds filled with lotus and water lilies (depending on the season), and traditional villages typical of the Red River Delta. Depending on the season and time of day, you may also see local farmers working in the fields.

The route takes you through several characteristic villages in northern Vietnam, including Trung Chinh, Bich Thuong and Loc Luong. In Trung Chinh, stop to explore the village’s cultural centre, including its communal house and pagoda, and gain an insight into traditional rural community life.

The ride then continues to Thung La Temple, the furthest point of the route. Here, you will meet local folk artisans and discover a selection of traditional Vietnamese musical instruments. You will have the opportunity to see and hear the instruments while learning more about the area’s cultural heritage.

After this cultural encounter, cycle back along the dyke beside Van Long Wetland, enjoying the surrounding scenery as you make your way back to the starting point.

Afterwards, discover Van Long Nature Reserve on a tranquil sampan ride through a vast landscape of limestone karsts and wetlands. As one of Vietnam’s largest nature reserves and a Ramsar-designated wetland of international importance, Van Long is renowned for its rich biodiversity. With a little luck, you may spot Delacour’s langurs, as well as egrets and other waterbirds resting on the limestone cliffs or foraging along the wetlands.

Notes
- The total cycling distance is approximately 20 km.
- Guests can also choose to cycle one way only, either from Lang Van Village to Thung La Temple or in the opposite direction, for approximately 10 km.

After lunch, we continue to Lang Van Church, one of the most striking contemporary religious landmarks in Ninh Binh. Designed in an impressive Gothic style, the church is characterized by pointed arches, soaring vaulted ceilings, and an imposing bell tower rising over 100 meters, making it one of the tallest church towers in Vietnam.

We then take part in an embroidery workshop led by Mrs. Lam, a local master craftswoman. With great pride, she introduces the traditional embroidery techniques passed down through generations. Under her guidance, you have the chance to work with needle and fabric, gaining hands-on experience and a deeper appreciation of this delicate craft, just like a local artisan.

In the evening, immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture and cuisine with a fun hands-on cooking class. Learn how to prepare authentic yet simple Vietnamese dishes with step-by-step guidance from your local host. After cooking, sit down to enjoy the delicious meal you’ve created together. It’s a warm, personal experience that connects you to local life through food.

8:00: Depart for Halong. The journey takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, with an optional stop for a restroom break along the way. Upon arrival, you'll be dropped off at Tuan Chau / Bai Chay pier, where you will board your cruise.

11:30 – 12:15: Arrive at the harbor, check in at the cruise lounge. Board a tender for a short transfer to your cruise. Receive a warm welcome drink, safety briefing, and check into your comfortable cabin.

13:00: Savor a freshly prepared lunch while cruising past iconic limestone formations such as Fighting Cocks Islet, Finger Islet, and Candle Islet. Depending on the route, your cruise will sail toward the pristine Bai Tu Long Bay or the serene Lan Ha Bay, both renowned for their tranquil beauty and fewer crowds.

15:00 – 15:30: Afternoon activities may include: Kayaking through hidden lagoons or around karst cliffs or Swimming in emerald waters or Riding a bamboo boat to visit a floating fishing village or explore a scenic cave (e.g., Vung Vieng, Dark & Bright, or Thien Canh Son).

17:00 – 18:00: Return to the boat and enjoy a Sunset Party with Happy Hour specials. Join an interactive Vietnamese cooking class or fruit/vegetable carving/cooking demonstration.

19:00: Relish a gourmet dinner featuring local specialties.

20:30 onwards: Free time for night activities such as squid fishing, board games, karaoke, spa treatments (extra charge), or simply stargazing from the sundeck.

Overnight onboard.

Notes: The route and activities may vary depending on the vessel and availability. Experiences may differ slightly between Bai Tu Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay, but both offer breathtaking scenery and memorable moments. The itinerary is subject to change due to weather, tides, or cruise operator arrangements.

06:00 – 06:30: Start your day with Tai Chi on the sundeck or enjoy the sunrise over the bay with tea and coffee.

07:00 – 08:15: Light breakfast served. Continue cruising and explore another highlight: Cave visit (e.g., Thien Canh Son, Hospital Cave) with historical or natural significance; Or kayaking/swimming at a picturesque spot such as Tra Bau or Ba Trai Dao.

09:30: Check out of your cabin and relax on the deck as the boat cruises back toward the harbor.

10:00 – 10:30: Enjoy a brunch (early light lunch) on board.

11:30: Arrive back at the port, bid farewell to the cruise team, and disembark.

You will be met at the cruise waiting lounge, then transferred to Hanoi. The journey takes approximately 2.5–3 hours, with an optional restroom stop along the way.

Our driver will pick you up from the lobby of your hotel in Hanoi and take you to Noi Bai Airport. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes.