Explore the Northeast: From Hidden Villages to Pristine Waterfalls
Leave your footprints on the most famous destinations in the Northeast, from hidden hillside villages to pristine waterfalls. Hike trails, encounter the diverse culture of mountain tribes, and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Travel from Hanoi to the Quan Ba Twin Mountains, Lung Cu, Dong Van Karst Plateau Heritage, the renowned Ban Gioc Waterfall, and Ba Be Lake National Park.
Advice:
- Active Itinerary: Perfect for travelers who love trekking and exploring nature.
- Seasonal Tips: Winter (December to January) can be cold and foggy.
- What to Bring: Trekking shoes, insect repellent, and a camera are essential.
- Homestay Experience: For more interaction with locals and an authentic experience, consider staying at a homestay with basic amenities: clean mattress, pillow, mosquito net, blankets, outside WC, and hot water shower. Hotel services are also available; please contact us for more info.
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Tour guide in: English, Français, Japanese and Korean
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Travel style: Authentic, Active, Mountain & Minority, Nature & Discover
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Group and Private
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All meals during the tour
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Easy
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May to October
Overview
- Start/End: Hanoi/Hanoi
- Visit: Ha Giang – Dong Van – Bao Lac – Cao Bang – Ba Be
- Duration: 10 Days
- Travel style: Authentic, Active, Mountain & Minority, Nature & Discover
- Category: Private tour
- Tour guide in: English, Français, Japanese and Korean
Enjoy:
- Cultural Encounters: Meet minority groups such as the Dzao, Bo Y, H'mong, Black Lo Lo, San Chi, Nung, and Tay.
- Uncharted Trekking: Explore off-the-beaten-path routes in Ha Giang and Dong Van.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy hiking, biking, and boating.
- Natural Beauty: Marvel at stunning landscapes including the Quan Ba Twin Mountains, Dong Van Karst Plateau, Ma Pi Leng Pass, the famous Ban Gioc Waterfall, Ba Be Lake National Park, and the Nguom Ngao & Hua Ma caves.
- Historical Excursion: Visit "The Windy Capital" - Tan Trao.
- Authentic Experience: Stay in a homestay for a genuine local experience.
Itinerary
Morning:
◾ Depart from your hotel in Hanoi and head towards Ha Giang via the highway to Phu Tho.
◾ Along the way, stop to visit the Dao village in Ham Yen, Tuyen Quang.
◾ Here, you'll discover the traditional houses on stilts, a typical architectural style of ethnic groups in this region.
Afternoon:
◾ Arrive in Ha Giang and begin your trek to the Me, Lup, and Tha villages.
◾ These villages are renowned for their serene beauty, with hundreds of houses on wooden stilts covered by palm leaves. In front of the houses, you'll find small ponds for raising fish and water hyacinth cultivations for pigs.
◾ The villagers, known for their legendary hospitality, will greet you with big smiles. Visit a typical house to get a glimpse of the local daily life.
Evening:
◾ Arrive in Tha Village, located on palm-covered hills surrounded by rice fields, where you can rest and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
◾ Check into your accommodation and feel free to stroll around to experience the rhythm of daily life in the mountains before sunset.
Included:
◾ English, Français, Japanese and Korean speaking guide
◾ Meal: Lunch and Dinner
◾ Private transportation
◾ Entrance fees
◾ 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Morning:
◾ Depart from your accommodation and head towards the Tay Con Linh Mountain range, following the route: Ha Thanh - Lung Vai - Khuoi My - Na Thac - Tha villages.
◾ Begin with a car transfer to Ha Thanh Village, where your trek up the hill starts. The initial climb might be a bit challenging, but the stunning natural landscapes make it all worthwhile.
◾ As you ascend, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the valley, the mountain peak, and Ha Giang city.
Midday:
◾ After a few hours of trekking, you'll reach Lung Vai Village, home to the Dao ethnic group.
◾ Take some time to explore the village and enjoy lunch amidst the serene surroundings.
Afternoon:
◾ Continue on the uneven path from the top of the hill to Khuoi My Village and then to Na Thac.
◾ Along the trek, you'll be accompanied by splendid views of rice terraces and have the chance to meet local inhabitants, offering a glimpse into their daily lives.
Evening:
◾ The trek concludes with a return to Tha Village in the afternoon, where you can relax and reflect on the day's adventures amidst the tranquil village setting.
Included:
◾ English, Français, Japanese and Korean speaking guide
◾ Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
◾ Private transportation
◾ 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Morning:
◾ Begin your journey to Dong Van, where magical landscapes unfold along the route. Before reaching Quan Ba Pass, stop to visit a village of Bo Y people in Quyet Tien Commune.
◾ Originally from China, the Bo Y is a small community of about 2,000 people living in the mountainous parts of the north. Take a short break at Quan Ba Pass to admire Quan Ba town and the famous Twin Fairy Mountain (Nui Co Tien).
Midday:
◾ Continue driving to the limestone rock plateau zone, often referred to as the mountainous Halong Bay.
◾ This majestic natural wonder is listed in the World Geological Park book.
◾ Along the way, enjoy a walking tour to Lung Hoa Village to discover “Nha Trinh Tuong,” a special type of house typical of the Hmong people, built on sticky ground.
Afternoon:
◾ Next, visit the Palace of the H'mong King (Dinh Vua Meo).
◾ Dating back 100 years, this palace tells the story of an autonomous zone in Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Dong Van, and Meo Vac, where the Hmong King ruled.
◾ Their economy was once based on poppy cultivation and opium trade with China.
Evening:
◾ Arrive in Dong Van, check into your accommodation, and relax after a day of cultural exploration and scenic wonders.
Included:
◾ English, Français, Japanese and Korean speaking guide
◾ Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
◾ Private transportation
◾ Entrance fees
◾ 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Morning:
◾ Depart for Lung Cu, a landmark located 1,470 meters above sea level and known for its significance in Northern Vietnam.
◾ The Lung Cu flag pole stands as a symbol of national sovereignty. Climb 900 steps to reach the top, where you'll be rewarded with magnificent views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and villages.
◾ Afterwards, explore the Lo Lo Chai village, home to the Lo Lo ethnic group.
Midday:
◾ Return to Dong Van town and enjoy a delicious lunch.
Afternoon:
◾ Embark on a trek through the villages in Dong Van, passing through Hau De, Ma Pia, and Ma Pang Villages along the scenic Nho Que river, which serves as a natural border between Vietnam and China.
◾ The trek offers stunning views and an opportunity to experience local culture and landscapes.
Evening:
◾ Travel back to Dong Van at the end of the day, reflecting on the scenic beauty and cultural richness experienced throughout your journey.
Included:
◾ English, Français, Japanese and Korean speaking guide
◾ Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
◾ Private transportation
◾ Entrance fees
◾ 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Morning:
◾ After breakfast at the hotel, depart from Dong Van to Meo Vac, crossing the spectacular Ma Pi Leng Pass.
◾ This pass offers breathtaking views of limestone mountains, the Nho Que River, and H'mong villages nestled in the mountains.
◾ Continue your journey to Bao Lac, known for the Black Lo Lo ethnic group.
◾ This region was highlighted by the French media in the documentary "The Journey into Unknown Land," filmed in Khuoi Khon village by rugby player Frederik Michalak.
◾ Enjoy lunch in Bao Lac town and check into your hotel.
Afternoon:
◾ Transfer to Coc Xa village in the Na Van commune.
◾ This village of the Lo Lo ethnic group remains more authentic than Khuoi Khon village, which became more touristic after the famous documentary.
◾ Walk through the rice fields and trails in the village, visit the local houses, and engage with the hosts to understand more about their traditional customs and daily life.
Evening:
◾ Return to Bao Lac town and spend the night in your hotel, reflecting on the rich cultural experiences and stunning landscapes of the day.
Included:
◾ English, Français, Japanese and Korean speaking guide
◾ Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
◾ Private transportation
◾ 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Morning:
◾ Depart for Cao Bang via Tinh Tuc.
◾ About 30km from Bao Lac, in Hung Dao commune, lies a beautiful village of the San Chi ethnic group.
◾ This hidden gem is seldom visited by travelers due to its secluded location behind the hills.
◾ The village, with its hundreds of stilt houses, is nestled on the side of a mountain and offers stunning views of the valley below.
◾ To reach the village, you'll need to walk up a 2km steep incline.
◾ The higher you climb, the more breathtaking the view becomes.
◾ During your visit, you can meet a local family to gain insight into the authentic life of the San Chi people.
Midday:
◾ Continue your journey to Cao Bang, where the landscape will leave you in awe.
◾ The mountains gently meet the valleys of rice terraces, creating a picturesque scene perfect for filming or taking photos.
◾ Take your time to stop and capture the beauty of the area whenever possible.
Afternoon:
◾ Arrive in Cao Bang and check into your hotel.
◾ Spend the evening exploring the central market in the city, immersing yourself in the local culture and atmosphere. Stay overnight in your hotel, reflecting on the day's adventures and the rich cultural experiences.
Included:
◾ English, Français, Japanese and Korean speaking guide
◾ Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
◾ Private transportation
◾ 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Morning:
◾ Depart from your hotel and head to Ban Gioc Waterfall, located on the border between Vietnam and China.
◾ Standing 30 meters tall and 208 meters wide, Ban Gioc is considered the most beautiful waterfall in Vietnam.
◾ After a scenic 2-hour drive through the magical limestone region, you'll arrive at this stunning natural masterpiece and be amazed by its beauty.
Afternoon:
◾ Transfer to Nguom Ngao Cave, which you can reach by walking a hundred steps.
◾ Located in a maize valley, the cave is 2 kilometers long and filled with incredible stalactites and stalagmites.
◾ During the Vietnam/China border war, it served as a shelter for thousands of local people.
◾ On your way back to Cao Bang, visit Phuc Sen, a blacksmith village.
◾ Here, you'll have the unique opportunity to burn your name into a souvenir knife. This experience is one that few travelers get to enjoy.
Evening:
◾ Spend the night in the village, where comfort is limited but the friendly atmosphere and legendary hospitality of the Nung ethnic group will make your stay memorable.
◾ Enjoy dinner and stay overnight in a homestay, experiencing the authentic lifestyle of the Nung people.
Included:
◾ English, Français, Japanese and Korean speaking guide
◾ Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
◾ Private transportation
◾ Entrance fees
◾ 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Morning:
◾ Depart from your homestay for a 2-hour trek to a charming Nung village.
◾ Along the way, you'll discover traditional craft villages specializing in the manufacture of paper and incense sticks.
◾ The landscape is breathtaking, with rice paddies and limestone peaks, and you'll be warmly welcomed by the ◾ Nung people known for their delightful hospitality.
◾ Many travelers consider this itinerary one of the most enchanting and memorable.
Midday:
◾ In Canh Phung Tren village, meet our driver for a transfer to Ba Be.
◾ During the journey, you'll be captivated by the magnificent landscape of villages nestled against the mountainside.
◾ There will be plenty of opportunities to stop, meet the locals, and take photos of the stunning scenery.
Afternoon:
◾ Arrive in Ba Be and visit Pac Ngoi village, a typical Tay village.
◾ Here, you can experience the serene beauty of the area and learn about the unique culture and lifestyle of the Tay people.
◾ This journey, much like exploring the vibrant Helio Night Market with its diverse food and lively atmosphere, offers a blend of discovery and local interaction that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Included:
◾ English, Français, Japanese and Korean speaking guide
◾ Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
◾ Private transportation
◾ 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Morning:
◾ Start your day with a transfer from the village to Buoc Lom Pier.
◾ From there, embark on a serene boat trip along the Nang River, soaking in the beautiful scenery of the forests lining the riverbanks.
◾ The boat will take you through Puong Cave, home to thousands of bats, and continue towards Dau Dang Waterfall.
Midday:
◾ Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant by the waterfall, where you can relax and take in the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Afternoon:
◾ After lunch, take the boat back to the lake, stopping at the Fairy Pond located in the middle of the primitive forest.
◾ Here, you can gently cruise around the lake, and if the weather permits, enjoy a refreshing swim. Disembark around 4:00 PM.
Evening:
◾ The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Relax and watch the sunset over the mountain ranges, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Included:
◾ English, Français, Japanese and Korean speaking guide
◾ Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
◾ Boat: Ba Be
◾ Private transportation
◾ Entrance fees
◾ 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Morning:
◾ Begin your day by cycling through several ethnic Tay villages.
◾ Follow the path along the river into Ba Be National Park and head towards Hua Ma Cave, located 5km from the village.
◾ This cave is known for its stunning formations of stalactites and stalagmites.
Midday:
◾ Return to Pac Ngoi village by 11:00 AM and meet our driver for your transfer back to Hanoi.
Optional:
◾ If time permits and you are feeling adventurous, you can extend your trip to Silver Waterfall, an additional 4km from Hua Ma Cave.
Afternoon:
◾ Arrived in Hanoi in the late afternoon. Check in at your hotel and enjoy some free time to relax and unwind after your mountain getaway.
Included:
◾ English, Français, Japanese and Korean speaking guide
◾ Meal: Breakfast
◾ Private transportation
◾ Entrance fees
◾ Bike: Ba Be
◾ 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
What's Included
- English, Français, Japanese and Korean Speaking tour guide following the itinerary
- All entrance fees and tickets mentioned in the itinerary
- Selected accommodations with daily breakfast
- Boat trip in Ba Be
- Private car as per the itinerary
- Meals: 9 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 9 dinners
- Bike rental in Ba Be
- Service charges and taxes
Not Included:
- International flights to/from your country
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
- Any other services not mentioned in the program
FAQs
This tour includes accommodation, meals as per the itinerary, transportation, guided trekking, entrance fees to attractions, and English-speaking tour guides. Specific details about the type of accommodation, meals, and transportation can be found in the itinerary section of the tour description.
Essential items to pack include comfortable trekking shoes, lightweight clothing, a waterproof jacket, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a first-aid kit, and a reusable water bottle. Additionally, packing a camera, personal toiletries, and any necessary medications is recommended. A detailed packing list will be provided upon booking.
Accommodation varies throughout the tour and includes hotels, guesthouses, and homestays. The tour aims to provide a mix of comfortable and authentic local experiences. Specific details about each accommodation type are available in the itinerary.
The tour typically starts in Hanoi. Participants can fly into Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, and from there, arrangements will be made to transport them to the starting point of the tour. Detailed instructions will be provided upon booking
The tour maintains a small group size to ensure a more personalized and immersive experience. The maximum group size is typically around 12-15 participants. This allows for better interaction with the guide and fellow travelers and minimizes the impact on the environment.
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended for all participants. The insurance should cover medical expenses, emergency evacuations, trip cancellations, and personal belongings. Participants will need to provide proof of insurance before the tour commences.