Upon your arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you’ll be greeted by our driver at the exit of 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.

8:00 AM: 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 Tày villages such as Ha Thanh, Tan Tien, and Cuong Thinh. We follow a small concrete path that winds its way along the base of lush green mountains, passing through scenic rice paddies and peaceful rural landscapes.

After a leisurely 2 km walk over mostly flat terrain, we’ll reach Ha Thanh village, home to the Tay ethnic group. This charming village features about 100 traditional stilt houses scattered across a serene valley adorned with vibrant rice fields and surrounded by verdant mountains. Here, we’ll take a short break and may have the opportunity to visit a local home. Accompanied by your guide, you’ll delve into the daily lives, rich traditions, and unique culture of the Tay people in Ha Giang.

Next, we’ll ascend for about 1-2 km, passing through a serene palm forest. At higher elevations, we’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of rice fields and stilt houses topped with palm leaf roofs. From here, the trail gently descends into Tan Tien village, another Tay community surrounded by rice fields and vegetable gardens.

Depending on the time, we can either take a shortcut to end the hike here or, if time allows, continue along a small road for an additional 2 km to reach Cuong Thinh village. This extended route offers even more opportunities to soak in the serene rural landscapes before our car picks us up and takes us back to Thon Tha village.

Walking distance: approximately 4-6 km

8:00 AM: 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.

8:00 AM: 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.

Upon arriving in Bao Lac, we'll have lunch at a local restaurant.

For the rest of the day, we'll visit either Khuoi Khon or Coc Xa village - both home to the Black Lo Lo people. Khuoi Khon gained recognition through the French documentary "The Journey into Unknown Land", featuring rugby player Frédéric Michalak. Coc Xa, by contrast, remains off the tourist trail and offers a more authentic, untouched atmosphere.

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.

8:00 AM: We’ll set off for Cao Bang, taking the scenic route via Khau Coc Cha Pass. Though only 2.5 kilometers long, this steep mountain pass is made up of 15 levels and 14 sharp bends, offering an unforgettable ride through dramatic and rugged landscapes.

Descending from the pass, we arrive in the peaceful Xuan Truong Valley, a stunning area filled with vast rice fields and traditional stilt houses. Here, you’ll have the chance to visit a local family - an authentic encounter that offers a unique window 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 tranquil valleys unfold before your eyes.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Our next stop is the historic Pac Bo Cave, a deeply meaningful site tucked away in the wilderness. It was here that President Ho Chi Minh returned in early 1941 after 30 years in exile, spending seven weeks in this secluded area to lay the foundations for Vietnam’s revolutionary path.

Finally, we arrive in Cao Bang city, where you'll check in and relax for the night.

8:00 AM: We’ll begin our journey to Ban Gioc Waterfall, a breathtaking natural wonder located on the border between Vietnam and China. Standing 30 meters tall and stretching 208 meters across, it’s widely considered the most beautiful waterfall in the country.

After a scenic two-hour drive through a captivating limestone landscape, we arrive at this majestic site, where cascading waters plunge into jade-colored pools - an awe-inspiring and unforgettable scene.

Next, we’ll visit Nguom Ngao Cave, peacefully nestled in the quiet Maize Valley. Stretching for over two kilometers, this extraordinary cave is adorned with glittering stalactites and stalagmites, shaped by nature over millions of years. Beyond its beauty, the cave holds deep historical significance - it sheltered thousands of villagers during the Vietnam-China border conflict in 1979.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

On the return journey, we’ll stop in Phuc Sen village, a community famed for its centuries-old blacksmithing tradition. Here, local artisans still forge 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 fascinating glimpse into this living heritage and the vital role it plays in daily rural life.

As the day winds down, we continue to Phia Thap incense village, a quiet Tay ethnic community known for its traditional hand-rolled incense made from natural forest ingredients. Settle in at a local homestay and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere - a perfect place to relax, connect with your hosts.

8:00 AM: We begin the day with a scenic hike from our homestay in Phia Thap village, surrounded by breathtaking mountain landscapes. Along the way, we pass through lush rice paddies, cornfields, and quiet villages inhabited by the Nùng people.

Our first stop is Lan village, well known for its beautiful handmade bamboo and rattan crafts. From there, we continue on to Lung Ri, a charming village perched on the mountainside, famous for its traditional yin-yang roof tiles - a unique craft passed down through generations of the Nùng An community. This centuries-old technique is still lovingly preserved today.

Walking distance: approx. 7-8 km

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.

8:00 AM: In the morning, enjoy a leisurely walk from your homestay in Pac Ngoi village to the nearby pier. From there, we’ll board a boat to begin our exploration of the serene Ba Be Lakes.

Our first stop will be a short walk into the heart of the ancient forest to discover the Fairy Pond, a peaceful, hidden gem nestled among the trees.

Back on the boat, we’ll continue along the Nang River, making another stop for a relaxing walk along the riverbank. Take a moment to fully immerse yourself in the wild, untouched beauty of the landscape.

We then return to the boat for a downstream journey to the Dau Dang Waterfall, where the water cascades over large rock formations in a powerful display of nature.

The final leg of our boat trip takes us upstream along the Nang River to the impressive Puong Cave, home to thousands of bats and dramatic limestone formations. We’ll cruise directly through the cave and continue to another pier, where we’ll disembark and conclude this scenic river journey.

8:30: Start your day at the Temple of Literature, 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, enjoy the water puppet shows that is the unique performances, first appeared in the 11th century. In these shows, the daily life, culture and belief of Vietnamese people are described by puppets on water. The show usually integrates a traditional music performance as well.

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: To begin the day’s activities, you may choose to enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the dyke, offering beautiful views of rice paddies and dramatic limestone mountains. Along the way, feel free to stop for photos or brief encounters with local villagers, providing an authentic glimpse into daily rural life.

The ride leads to Thung La Temple, a peaceful and little-visited temple dating back to the 11th century. Nestled at the foot of limestone cliffs and surrounded by farmland, the temple reflects early Vietnamese spiritual architecture and local religious traditions. Here, you'll listen to a traditional musical performance, offering insight into the region’s cultural heritage.

Afterwards, return to Van Long Nature Reserve for a tranquil sampan boat ride through a vast landscape of limestone karsts and wetlands. As one of Vietnam’s largest nature reserves and a Ramsar-listed wetland of international importance, Van Long is known for its rich biodiversity. With a bit of luck, you may spot Delacour’s langurs (white monkeys), egrets, or other water birds resting on the cliffs and along the marshes.

Cycling distance: approximately 10 km (one way) or 20 km (round trip)Note: Travelers who prefer not to cycle may ride as a passenger on a scooter or travel comfortably to the temple by car.

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.

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 an early light lunch/brunch 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.

In the evening, our driver picks you up at your hotel or address in Hanoi’s Old Quarter and transfers you to Hanoi Train Station for your onward train to Hue.

Arrive at Hue railway station in the morning, where our tour guide and driver will warmly welcome you. Then, set off to explore the mystical city of Hue.

Then, transfer to the Huong River (or Perfume River) to embark a Royal boat trip to the villages in the East of the city. This is an opportunity to discover the local life on the both sides of this poetic river. Upon arrival in Tien Non village, disembark for a bike ride in the countryside through three villages: Tien Non, Thanh Tien and Sinh village. During the trip, you will be immersed into the daily rhythm of life in the villages.

In Tien Non village, meet the villagers working on the fields and vegetable gardens. Then, visit a family worship house in the village. Next, reach Thanh Tien village, an artificial paper flower village dating back 400 years. Besides the rural works, they make paper flowers for the New Year festival to offer their ancestors the best wishes. Visit Mr. Hieu’s family, one of the well-known artisans in the village to learn how to make paper flowers under his instruction. Keep going to Sinh village, a cradle of 400 year folklore prints in Hue. Meet Mr. Phuoc who will explain the techniques of traditional prints. You will find beautiful souvenirs on this trip. 

Continue with Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest pagodas in Hue, dating back to 1601. This is the spiritual highlight of the city and well known for its majestic octagon tower and beautiful view of the Perfume River.  

To end the day, we will visit Hue Citadel, the only vestige symbol for what was once the imperial city of Vietnam. It is inspired by the fortification of Vauban. The city is composed of three parts: Kinh Thanh (the Capital city), Hoang Thanh (the Imperial city) and Cam Thanh (the Forbidden City). The most beautiful sites in Hue are concentrated in this area including the flag tower, the South gate, the palace of supreme Harmony, the Dynasty temple area and the settlement area.

8:00: We continue exploring Hue with a visit to Khai Dinh King's tomb, built in 11 years (1920 – 1931) on Chau Tru hill. Khai Dinh King's tomb is distinguished from other emperor's tombs by the mixture of oriental and western styles. A hundred-step climb will take you to the worship palace at the top. You will discover the amazing decoration with delightful porcelain fragments, a giant painting on the ceiling and a small royal objects museum next door. Finally, the descent offers a panoramic view to the tomb and surrounding area.

After that, transfer to Hoi An via Mandarin Road and Sea Cloud pass (Hai Van Pass). Stop on top of the pass to enjoy the breathtaking view of the ocean and Da Nang city. Once you arrive in Da Nang, stop to visit the Cham Museum which preserves the most important Cham culture collections in the world. Then, walk on My Khe beach where you can enjoy the view of giant Goodness of Mercy statues in the Linh Ung Pagoda. Take photos of fishermen by the beach then continue driving along the coastline to Hoi An ancient town. 

Hoi An used to be one of the most typical South-East Asian trading ports dating from the 15th to the 19th century and the Old Town is still well-preserved. The exchanged cultures is displayed on many historic buildings, religion, daily business and enriched by the authentic lifestyle of local inhabitants.

Upon arrival, we'll explore Hoi An. Our first stop is Cam Pho - one of the oldest communal houses in Hoi An. It was built in the shape of Chinese character means the country for worshipping and trading business and cultural exchange between locality and Chinese, Japanese traders.

Our next visit is the Hoi An city’s symbol - the Chua Cau or the Japanese Covered Bridge, built in the 17th century to allow the Japanese quarter to be accessible from the Chinese neighborhoods. The bridge’s original style has been carefully preserved for the last 400 years.

We continue on to Quan Thang ancient house - one of the most authentic old houses in Hoi An with the lively and fine architecture and sculptures were made by craftsmen of famous Kim Bong carpentry village in the oriental style. The house offers a good look of Hoi An family's daily life. 

We conclude the day with a visit to Phuc Kien or Fujian Assembly Hall, built since 17th century, is the gathering place for residents, traders and visitors from a specific area in China called Fujian. It is also a religious site to honor the deity Thien Hau. Spend a visit, you will admire the colorful fountains in the courtyard, the ornate gates surrounding the property and the beautiful carved dragons in the main room.

Today, you have the entire day free to relax or explore the surrounding area at your own pace. Optional activities are available, such as snorkeling, cooking, cycling, sightseeing, or enjoying a boat trip. Feel free to contact us for more details and availability!

Our driver will pick you up from the lobby of your hotel in Hoi An and transfer you to Da Nang Airport.

Upon your arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, our local driver will greet you at the pickup area and transfer you to your hotel in the city.

In the afternoon, we start exploring the city with the Independence Palace, once used as the home - office of the Presidents of South Vietnam. Our visit includes the North Vietnamese tank which effectively attacked the palace in 1975 to bring the controversial Vietnam War to an end and the five-story palace with its rooms have been preserved in their late 1960s, 1970s style and a bunker basement.

Following that, we'll discover the top visited site in Ho Chi Minh city – the War Remnant museum. The exhibits offer you all-sided views of the Vietnam War that might bring a big surprise than you are probably used to hearing and seeing.

We end the day with a stroll to Binh Tay Market, located in Saigon’s Chinatown area with hundreds of stalls, the biggest market in city actually contributes a hub for many of Saigon’s demands including clothing, souvenir and food items. There is also a food court where visitors can sample local delicacies and street food.

8:30: Our local driver and guide will pick you up from your hotel in central Ho Chi Minh City. From there, we’ll head to Ben Tre, in the heart of the Mekong Delta.

Upon arrival, board a boat at Phong Nam pier (near Phong Nam Bridge) and begin cruising along the Chet Say River, a scenic branch of the Mekong. Along the way, enjoy views of daily life on the river—fishing, cargo transport, and local activity. Stop at a traditional brick factory where bricks are still handmade using age-old techniques. Refresh with a glass of fresh coconut juice.

Visit a local workshop that produces coconut shell charcoal and learn how coconut shells are transformed into eco-friendly charcoal.

Continue the boat trip to a coconut processing workshop where you’ll discover how coconut candy is made. Taste the delicious coconut treats, enjoy tropical fruits, and sip honey tea.

Take a short walk to visit a family-run mat weaving workshop. Then, hop on a motor cart or bicycle for a peaceful ride through quiet village lanes, giving you a closer look at local farmers’ daily lives.

Enjoy lunch at a local riverside restaurant.

After lunch, transfer by motor cart back to the pier. Then take a traditional rowing boat ride to return to Nha Viec Bridge.

14:50: Our driver will be waiting to pick you up for the return journey to Ho Chi Minh City.

Our driver will pick you up from your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City and take you to Tan Son Nhat Airport.