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From Saigon to Hanoi: Vietnam Off the beaten Track | Authentic Tour – 21 Days

21 Days
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The adventure starts from the dynamic Saigon city and the bustling Mekong Delta. Journey to the well-known coastal World Heritages sites of: Hoi An ancient town, My Son holy land & Hue’s ancient Citadel. Escape the busy cities to the rugged trekking paths in the North West. Access a variety of terrains, amazing landscapes and authentic cultures of the colourful minority tribes……Conclude the trip with a relaxing cruise on Bay.

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Overview

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Overview

Start/End: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)/Hanoi

Visit: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Ben Tre – Long Xuyen – Tay Ninh – Hoi An – My Son – Hue – Hanoi – Nghia Lo – Mu Cang Chai – Lai Chau – Sapa – Bac Ha – Bai Tu Long bay

Duration: 21 Days

Travel style: Authentic, Mountain & Minority, Culture and Heritage, Nature & Discover

Category: Private tour

Tour schedule: Daily Departure

Tour guide in: English, Français, Español, Deutsch, Italiano

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Highlights

  • Hanoi charming & bustling Ho Chi Minh City
  • Cu Chi Tunnels, Battle of Dien Bien Phu
  • Hoi An old town
  • My Son Sanctuary
  • Hue ancient capital under the Nguyen dynasty
  • Indochina train journey
  • Meet mountainous tribal groups: Muong, Thai, H'mong, Dao, Dzay, Laotian, Lu
  • Off-the-beaten-trek in Mu Cang Chai, Sapa
  • Beautiful mountain scenery, wonderful terraced fields in Mu Cang Chai and Sapa
  • Typical mountain market in Bac Ha
  • Homestay experience
  • Overnight on Bay cruise
  • Cultural & historical tours

Itinerary

Ho Chi Minh City arrival, welcome and transfer to hotel

Landing at the Tan Son Nhat airport, you are welcomed by professional tour guide and driver at the pickup lobby. On the 30-minute driving from the airport to the city center, your tour guide will introduce you about the highlights of the city, and share the experiences of eating and drinking, traffic, culture....

On arrival, transfer to your hotel.

Note: Hotel check in time at 14.00

Included:
English speaking guide
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Elios Hotel(Senior Superior Room)
233 Pham Ngu Lao street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Discovering Saigon city with the best highlights: Independence palace, Binh Tay market, China town, Quan Am pagoda and Fito Museum of traditional medicine

9:00 AM: Your day starts with a pickup from your hotel for a visit to the Independence Palace,the previous South Vietnamese Presidents' office and home. This is where you can see the North Vietnamese tank that memorably assaulted the palace in 1975, striking a spectacular end to the Vietnam War. The palace's five stories are still intact, and its original 1960s and 1970s style rooms are still present, along with an interesting bunker below.

After that, take a leisurely stroll around the city. See the Notre Dame Cathedral in Saigon, which was constructed between 1863 and 1880 and is a magnificent example of French colonial architecture. It is one of the most stunning sites in Ho Chi Minh City due to its Gothic style and twin towers.

Next, head to Nguyen Hue Walking Street, a bustling neighborhood renowned for its important landmarks and energetic environment. Walk a short distance to see the magnificent Saigon Central Post Office, created by renowned architect Gustave Eiffel. This exquisitely maintained structure still serves as a post office and has elaborate interior design.

You will then be taken a short distance to Binh Tay Market, which is located in the center of Chinatown in Saigon. The biggest and busiest market in the city, it sells everything from fresh vegetables and regional specialties to apparel and mementos. A fantastic place to try authentic street cuisine is the market's food court.

Visit Quan Am Pagoda, one of the city's oldest temples devoted to Guan Yin, the Buddhist goddess of mercy, as you continue your research. In addition to providing insight into Taoist customs and folk devotion, the pagoda is a magnificent example of traditional Chinese architecture.
The Traditional Medicine Museum (FITO), where you may explore the realm of traditional Vietnamese medicine, is the last destination of the day. The museum features an amazing array of traditional recipes, mystical concoctions, therapeutic plants, and vintage medical equipment.
You will be taken back to your hotel at the end of your trip, capping up an exciting day full of learning about history and culture.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Elios Hotel(Senior Superior Room)
233 Pham Ngu Lao street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

From Saigon to Mekong discovery: Boat trip & biking in Ben Tre, visiting typical craft village, interact local people, garden tour, overnight in a homestay

8:00 AM: Your adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel for a transfer to Ben Tre, a charming Mekong Delta region famous for its coconut candy production.

At Hung Vuong pier, you'll embark on a boat tour of the Ben Tre River to witness everyday local life. Continue your journey along a canal to Nhon Thanh Village, where you'll have the chance to taste fresh fruits. You can then choose to bike or take a tuk-tuk ride along narrow village paths, enjoying views of coconut trees, rice paddies, and vegetable gardens.

Lunch will feature elephant ear fish in the village, followed by a short walk to delve deeper into local life. Enjoy a boat ride through a small canal surrounded by wild palm trees. Afterward, you'll transfer to Cai Lay for approximately an hour. There, you'll be warmly welcomed by your homestay host and have the opportunity to help prepare Banh Xeo Nam Bo, a traditional dish from the area.

You’ll have dinner and spend the night at your homestay in Cai Lay.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Boat: Ben Tre
Private transportation
Tuk Tuk: Ben Tre
Cooking class: Ben Tre homestay
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Hai My's Homestay(Standard Room)
864 Provincial street, Dong Hoa hamlet, Tam Binh village, Cai Lay district, Tien Giang , Vietnam

Mekong discovery: Enjoying fruit garden tour, Kien An Cung pagoda, Huynh Thuy Le's house

After breakfast at your homestay, take a bike ride (1-1.5 hours) from Dong Hoa to Tam Binh, where you'll ride through lush gardens of durians, sapotas, and longans, and meet local villagers. Visit a local market before returning to the homestay for refreshments.

(Optional Extension: Consider a one-hour walk along a trail with a local and then cycle to Ngu Hiep Island, renowned for its fertile gardens created by the Mekong River's alluvium. These special excursions provide an authentic and lush experience.)
If cycling isn't your preference, you can ask our tour guide for a motorbike and ride as a passenger.

Next, you'll travel to Long Xuyen, with a stop in Sa Dec to visit the Kien An Cung Pagoda and Huynh Thuy Le's house, which is featured in Marguerite Duras' novel "L’Amant – The Lover." Explore Sa Dec's bustling market, full of fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish. Continue to Long Xuyen, where you’ll see the Cao Dai temple and a crocodile farm. Overnight accommodation will be at a hotel in Long Xuyen.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Bike: Ben Tre
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Hoa Binh 1 Hotel(Standard Room)
130 Tran Hung Dao street, Long Xuyen city, An Giang , Vietnam

Mekong discovery: Long Xuyen floating village, Cu Lao Ong Ho island. Back to Ho Chi Minh City

In the morning, you’ll head to the floating market and floating village in Long Xuyen, where you can experience the lively and authentic atmosphere on a small Mekong River tributary. Observe the daily lives of the riverine communities.

Enjoy a boat trip to Cu Lao Ong Ho, home to a small museum dedicated to the renowned President Ton Duc Thang. Take a bike ride around the island to soak in the serene landscapes.

In the afternoon, you’ll travel back to Saigon and check into your hotel by late afternoon.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Boat: Long Xuyen
Private transportation
Bike: Long Xuyen
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Elios Hotel(Senior Superior Room)
233 Pham Ngu Lao street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Special excursion to Cu Chi tunnels and then visiting Cao Dai temple, flying to Danang, Hoi An

8:00 AM: Depart from your hotel to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, a notable historical site from the Vietnam War. Explore the intriguing Cu Chi Tunnels, a 250-kilometer subterranean network that served as a crucial stronghold for the Viet Cong in their resistance against American forces. These tunnels, painstakingly dug with simple pickaxes and shovels over two decades, are now partially open to visitors. For a more serene experience, consider a visit to the Ben Duoc Memorial Temple, established in 1993 to honor the Vietnamese lives lost at Cu Chi.

Next on your journey is the Cao Dai Temple, a unique religious site where you can witness a blend of Taoism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Roman Catholicism. Try to arrive in time for the noon mass to fully experience the vibrant and eclectic ceremonies of Caodaism.

After a delightful lunch at a local eatery, head to the airport for your flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival, a knowledgeable tour guide and driver will greet you. During the scenic 30-45-minute drive to your hotel, your guide will share insights about Da Nang’s landmarks, dining spots, traffic, and cultural highlights.

Settle into your accommodation along the stunning coastline, and take some time to relax and soak in the beauty of your surroundings.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Flight :VN138 (SGN - DAD) - (Direct) / 16:00 - 17:35 - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 06 tickets
Delicacy Hotel & Spa(Deluxe City View Room)
116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam

Day 7 :
Hoi An

Discovering Hoi An rural by cycling and city walking tour

8:00 AM: Move from your hotel and head to the center of Hoi An. Our first destination is Cam Pho, one of Hoi An's oldest communal houses, designed in a shape resembling the Chinese character for a community dedicated to religion, commerce, and cultural exchange with Chinese and Japanese traders.

Enjoy a leisurely walk to Chua Cau, famously known as the Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An. Constructed in the 17th century, this bridge once connected the Chinese and Japanese quarters and has been meticulously preserved over the centuries.

As you wander through Hoi An, immerse yourself in the local culture. Visit the Quan Thang Ancient House, a beautifully preserved example of traditional architecture with intricate wood carvings by skilled artisans from the Kim Bong carpentry village, offering a glimpse into the daily life of a Hoi An family.

Next, head to the Phuc Kien (Fujian) Assembly Hall before boarding a boat to cross the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong village. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the riverbanks and the refreshing breeze during your boat ride.

Kim Bong is renowned for its wood carving, a craft that has evolved through the integration of northern Vietnamese techniques with those of Chinese and Japanese origin. Explore the village by bike, visit a carpenter’s workshop, and see their craftsmanship up close. You can even purchase some of their exquisite wooden pieces as souvenirs.

Cycle through picturesque trails until you reach Tra Nhieu village, where you can experience the charm of central Vietnam. Interact with local artisans, such as Mr. Kha, who crafts bamboo baskets, Ms. Duoc, who weaves mats, and Mr. Huynh Ri, a shipbuilder. Enjoy the rural landscape of rice fields, palm groves, and farmers at work.

From Tra Nhieu, take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River to Cam Thanh village. As you travel, admire the water palm trees and fishing farms.

Upon reaching Cam Thanh, relax in fisherman Mr. Phong's home with a cup of green tea and a soothing herbal foot massage. Next, learn to prepare traditional dishes using herbs and vegetables from Tra Que village. Practice making grilled fish wrapped in banana leaves, Hoi An spring rolls, shrimp spring rolls, and crispy pancakes, and savor the dishes you’ve cooked.

In the afternoon, enjoy a tranquil ride in a small circular bamboo basket boat through the water palm grove, a peaceful conclusion to your day of exploration.

Return to your hotel to unwind after a full day of cultural immersion.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Boat: Cam Thanh,Tra Nhieu - Cam Thanh
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Bike: Hoi An
Leisure: Foot massage
Cooking class: Cam Thanh
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Delicacy Hotel & Spa(Deluxe City View Room)
116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam

Exploring My Son Sanctuary, Champa culture, unique architecture

8:00 AM: Enjoy your half-day excursion with a pickup from your hotel by your tour guide and driver. Head to My Son, located 40 km from Hoi An, the sacred valley of the Champa Kingdom. This site was a major intellectual and religious center and potentially served as a burial site for Cham rulers.

My Son is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, preserving 70 ruined brick and stone temples built between the 7th and 13th centuries. Your guide will share detailed information about the site's cultural, historical, and architectural significance as you explore each relic. Enjoy a traditional Champa dance performance before concluding your visit.

Return to the city after the excursion.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Delicacy Hotel & Spa(Deluxe City View Room)
116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam

Travelling to Hue, visiting Cham sculpture museum, Hai Van Pass, Thien Mu Pagoda and Hue citadel

8:00 AM: Depart from the hotel and take the coastline route past Da Nang to Hue. When you get to Da Nang, make time to see the Cham Museum, which is home to the world's most significant collections of Cham artifacts. After that, stroll down to My Khe Beach to see the enormous Goodness of Mercy sculptures within the Linh Ung Pagoda. After taking pictures of the fisherman near the shore, drive down the coast to the old capital of Hue. Stop at the summit of Hai Van Pass to take in the amazing ocean vista.

When you arrive in Hue, have lunch and then travel to Thien Mu Pagoda, which is among the city's oldest pagodas and dates back to 1601. This is the city's spiritual high point and is well-known for its imposing octagon tower and breathtaking Perfume River outlook.

Continue your tour See the most significant locations in the city, including the Hue Citadel, the only remaining reminder of Vietnam's former imperial capital. It draws inspiration from Vauban's fortifications. The city is divided into three sections: the Forbidden City (Cam Thanh), the Imperial City (Hoang Thanh), and the Capital City (Kinh Thanh). The flag tower, the South gate, the palace of supreme harmony, the Dynasty temple area, and the settlement area are among the most picturesque locations in Hue and are grouped together in this region.

Finally, enjoy your time in the historic capital by checking into your hotel.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Rosaleen Boutique Hotel(Deluxe Double Room)
36 Chu Van An street, Hue city, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam

Day 10 :
Hue - Hanoi

An amazing day tour to explore Perfume River by boat trip, excursion to Tien Non, Thanh Tien, Sinh village, Khai Dinh King's Tomb. Night train to Hanoi

8:00 AM: Head to the Huong River (Perfume River) to embark on a Royal boat trip exploring the villages to the east of Hue. This tranquil boat ride offers insight into the local life along the river. Upon arrival in Tien Non village, disembark for a bike ride through the countryside, visiting Tien Non, Thanh Tien, and Sinh villages. This excursion immerses you in the rural pace of life.

In Tien Non village, interact with villagers in their fields and vegetable gardens, and visit a local family worship house. Next, head to Thanh Tien village, renowned for its 400-year-old tradition of crafting paper flowers. Visit Mr. Hieu’s family, where you’ll learn the art of paper flower making from a skilled artisan. Continue to Sinh village, celebrated for its folklore prints dating back 400 years. Meet Mr. Phuoc, who will explain the traditional printmaking techniques. You’ll find beautiful souvenirs before returning by boat to the city.

In the afternoon, drive to Khai Dinh King's tomb, built over 11 years (1920-1931) on Chau Tru hill. This tomb is unique for its fusion of Eastern and Western architectural elements. Climb the hundred steps to the worship palace at the top, where you’ll see elaborate decorations featuring porcelain fragments, a large ceiling painting, and a small museum of royal artifacts. The descent offers stunning views of the tomb and the surrounding area.

Wrap up your day with a night train to Hanoi, the capital city.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B
Boat: Sinh - Tien Non
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Bike: Hue
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Train:SE2 (Hue - Hanoi) / 16:22 - 05:55 - Deluxe( 4 berths / cabin) / 06 tickets

Day 11 :
Hanoi

Exploring the center of culture & education Van Mieu, outstanding museum of ethnology, visiting French Quarter and discovering Old town

Upon your arrival at Hanoi railway station, your tour guide and driver will pick you up. Enjoy a local breakfast and some rest before visiting the Temple of Literature. Established in the 11th century under the Ly dynasty, this temple was dedicated to Confucius and was an educational center for royal children. Wander through the gardens to see the Khue Van Cac, and view the "stone steles" commemorating outstanding students. Explore Quoc Tu Giam, the first national university of Vietnam.

Your next stop is the Ethnology Museum (closed on Mondays), which provides an in-depth look at Vietnamese culture through exhibits on traditional costumes, tools, musical instruments, and ethnic group houses. Spend approximately two hours discovering the museum.

In the afternoon, visit the French Quarter, Hanoi’s “little Paris,” known for its tree-lined streets, significant government buildings, and a grand square. View Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum from the outside, then take a relaxing walk through the botanical gardens to the Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts. Continue to the One Pillar Pagoda, a prominent symbol of the city. Depending on the number of travelers, exploring this area may take one to two hours.

Explore Ba Da Pagoda, located in a quiet alley near the Hanoi Great Cathedral, built during French colonial times. Your guide will also take you to Lan Ong Street, known for traditional medicine, and Lo Ren Street, famous for metalwork. Visit Dong Xuan Central Market, Hanoi’s largest market. End your walk at Ta Hien Street, a vibrant area popular for street food and nightlife.

Finish your day with a water puppet show, a traditional performance that began in the 11th century. The show features puppets performing on water, depicting Vietnamese culture and beliefs, often accompanied by traditional music.

Return to your hotel to end the day.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Leisure: Water puppet
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Conifer Grand Hotel(ROH Room)
42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Enjoying a day to tea plantation, Muong & Thai culture regions

8:00 AM: Meet your tour guide and driver at your Hanoi hotel for a transfer to Muong Lo via Thanh Son. Muong Lo is one of the prominent fertile valleys in the Northwest region, alongside Muong Thanh, Muong Tac, and Muong Than. The area is predominantly inhabited by the Thai ethnic group, known for their distinctive stilt houses and rice farming.

Drive along National Road 32, tracing the Black River (Da River), a major river in the Northwest. In Thanh Son, stop to visit a lush green tea plantation and explore the stilt-house villages of the Muong ethnic group, who have preserved their traditional lifestyle with minimal Chinese influence.

Arriving in Nghia Lo, you’ll have the opportunity to walk or bike through the Thai village. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the rice field valleys, traditional stilt houses, and the warm hospitality of the local people.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Private transportation
Bike: Nghia Lo
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Nghia Lo Homestay (Ms Loan) (Sharing homestay)
Nghia Lo town, Yen Bai , Vietnam

The best of terrace in La Pan Tan, Tu Le, immersing into Thai, Dao, Dzay culture

Having breakfast, then visit a local market in Nghia Lo before heading to Mu Cang Chai via Tu Le. Mu Cang Chai is celebrated for its breathtaking rice terraces, often regarded as the most beautiful globally. In 2007, the terraces in Che Cu Nha, De Su Phinh, and La Pan Tan were officially recognized as national heritage sites.

As you depart Nghia Lo, you will drive through a mountainous region inhabited by the Dao ethnic group. Take a break to capture photos and meet the local residents.

In Tu Le, you might choose to trek into the valley where the Thai people live in traditional stilt houses. This experience provides an immersive look into their authentic lifestyle. In the afternoon, travel to Khau Pha Pass for a spectacular panoramic view of the rice terrace valleys.

Continue to La Pan Tan, a renowned route for photographers where you can admire the stunning rice terraces sculpted by Hmong farmers. Enjoy the majestic scenery and travel from La Pan Tan to Mam Xoi. End your day by checking into your accommodation.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Mu Cang Chai Homestay (Sharing homestay)
Mu Cang Chai district, Yen Bai , Vietnam

Exploring the best of terrace in Che Cu Nha, Kim Noi, De Xu Phinh, immersing into Thai, Dao, Dzay culture

Set out for a trekking day through the villages of Che Cu Nha, Kim Noi, and De Xu Phinh. This journey provides a fantastic chance to admire the spectacular rice terraces in Mu Cang Chai, particularly in the Che Cu Nha and De Xu Phinh areas, which were designated as national natural heritage in 2007. These terraces are renowned among photographers for their stunning beauty.

On your trek, you will visit H'mong villages perched between 800 and 1500 meters above sea level. The hard work of generations has resulted in expansive rice terraces that make Mu Cang Chai one of the most alluring destinations in the world. Beyond rice cultivation, the local H'mong people are skilled in various crafts such as blacksmithing and weaving. The day promises enriching interactions with the locals and unforgettable views of the famous Mu Cang Chai rice terraces.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Mu Cang Chai Homestay (Sharing homestay)
Mu Cang Chai district, Yen Bai , Vietnam

Easy trekking in Na Tam, visiting Laotian & Lu people

After breakfast, travel to Than Uyen, renowned for its striking Thai rice valleys. The beautiful rice terraces of Mu Cang Chai will be a scenic backdrop throughout your journey. Before heading to Sapa, stop at Na Tam Village to visit the Laotian and Lu communities. This tranquil village is known for its traditional customs, including the black teeth and indigo attire with silver adornments worn by local women. Enjoy a relaxed walk around the village and meet the local inhabitants.

Next, transfer to Sapa, crossing the Hoang Lien Son Pass (O Quy Ho Pass). This pass, the longest and highest in Vietnam, spans 54 kilometers and reaches a height of 2,047 meters. Take a break at the pass to enjoy the magnificent views and take some memorable photos. Arrive in Sapa in the afternoon. Founded by the French in 1903, Sapa is known for its cool climate, scenic rice terraces, stunning mountain landscapes, and the diverse ethnic communities, including the Black Hmong, Red Dao, and Dzay.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Sapa Elegance Hotel(Deluxe Room)
3 Hoang Dieu street, Sapa town, Lao Cai , Vietnam

Day 16 :
Sapa

A amazing day for off the beaten track trekking from Sau Chua to Hau Thao, best views of Muong Hoa valley, less touristic

At 8:00 AM, set out for Sau Chua Hamlet to embark on a challenging 15 km trek featuring both uphill and downhill sections. The trek leads you to Sa Seng village, where you’ll get a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the Black H’Mong people, who have been in Vietnam since the 11th century after migrating from China.

After your trek, enjoy either a picnic lunch or a meal at a local restaurant. Continue your hike up the mountainside to enjoy panoramic views of Muong Hoa Valley from an elevation of 1,800 meters. Descend to Hau Thao village, a small settlement with a few houses and a church located on a rocky outcrop. The area offers some of the best scenery, including rice terraces, small villages nestled in the Hoang Lien mountain range, and, weather permitting, the towering Fansipan peak. Conclude your trek by walking down to Muong Hoa Valley.

Return to Sapa and have free time to explore the town on your own.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Sapa Elegance Hotel(Deluxe Room)
3 Hoang Dieu street, Sapa town, Lao Cai , Vietnam

Trekking to Red Dao village Ta Phin, travelling to Bac Ha

Journey along a scenic and less-traveled path to the remote Ban Khoang village, perched on the hillside. Today’s 12 km trek takes you on an off-the-beaten-path route through hilly terrain, where you’ll explore the rich culture of the Red Dao people, known for their striking traditional clothing.

Following a picnic lunch or an early meal at a local eatery in the village, trek along a small hill path, passing through cornfields and entering a lush rainforest with breathtaking views of rice terraces. Depending on the season, you may witness local farmers and buffaloes working in the fields. Visit orchid gardens that cater to even the largest city’s demand for New Year’s decorations. As you make your way to Ta Phin village, you’ll be greeted as a family member by the villagers. Immerse yourself in the Red Dao’s unique culture and daily routines, and enjoy a traditional herb bath.

You will then be transported back to Bac Ha, located at 1,000 meters above sea level. Bac Ha is home to several ethnic groups, including the colorful Hmong, Phu La, and Tay. The area is renowned for its vibrant weekly markets, set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty. These markets are not only venues for trading goods but also centers for cultural exchange among the local ethnic groups.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Huy Trung's Homestay(Double Room)
Na Quang 3, Bac Ha town, Bac Ha district, Lao Cai , Vietnam

Exploring a typical mountain Bac Ha Market, back to Hanoi

7:00 AM: Start your day with a visit to Bac Ha’s bustling ethnic market. If it's Sunday, the Bac Ha market is the highlight. On other days, you can explore Coc Ly market on Tuesday or Can Cau market on Saturday. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as you see a range of goods, including vegetables, poultry, horses, and buffaloes, all while taking in the colorful traditional clothing of the local minority groups.

Following the market visit, take a scenic walk through some of Bac Ha’s picturesque ethnic villages. The landscape is characterized by corn fields, cassava hills, and traditional clay houses, with H'Mong women in their bright attire adding a splash of color to the surroundings.

Return to Bac Ha for lunch before transferring back to Hanoi. You’ll check into your hotel around 6:00 PM.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Conifer Grand Hotel(ROH Room)
42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Cruising in Bai Tu Long bay, exploring Cap La Island, cooking class and overnight on boat

8:00 AM: Depart from your Hanoi Old Quarter hotel and embark on a scenic three-hour drive to Bai Tu Long Bay. Admire the passing villages and rice fields of the Red River Delta. There will be a short stop for refreshments and restroom use before continuing to the harbor, arriving around noon for a warm welcome at the cruise reception.

11:30 - 11:45 AM: Arrive at the waiting lounge of Ha Long International Cruise Port. Relax as you await the completion of the captain's registration process, then transfer to the boat by tender.

12:00 - 12:15 PM: Board the boat, where you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink and receive a safety briefing. Check into your cabin and prepare for a relaxing afternoon.

1:00 PM: Enjoy a tasty Vietnamese set menu lunch while cruising through the beautiful Bai Tu Long Bay.

3:00 PM: Reach the kayaking area at Cap La Island. Kayak among the stunning karst formations, swim, or simply unwind in this picturesque location.

5:40 PM: Return to the boat and take part in the Sunset Party as the cruise sails to its overnight anchorage. Attend a Vietnamese cooking demonstration to learn how to make a dish like Nem Cuon, or try fruit and vegetable carving.

7:00 PM: Delight in a delicious set dinner on board.

8:30 - 10:00 PM: Spend your evening engaging in Vietnamese puzzle games, board games, squid fishing, or relaxing with a cocktail while enjoying the tranquil night views of the bay.

Included:
Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Halong
English speaking guide (on board)
Meal: B, L, D
Entrance fees
Kayak: Halong
Leisure: Swimming
Cooking class: Halong (on board) - cooking demonstration
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Swan Cruise - 2D1N(Deluxe Cabin)
3 Dang Thai Than street, Hoan Kien district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Visiting the charm of Thien Canh Son cave, stunning cruising and back to Hanoi

06:30 AM: Start your day with a sunrise Tai Chi session on the sundeck or take in the breathtaking views of the bay while sipping on your favorite tea or coffee.

07:00 AM: Enjoy a hearty Western-style breakfast to fuel up for a day of adventures.

07:45 AM: Discover the hidden wonders of Thien Canh Son Cave.

09:00 AM: Return to the boat for about 30 minutes to freshen up and complete your packing.

09:30 AM: Check out from your cabin.

10:00 AM: Relish a traditional Vietnamese lunch on the boat.

10:30 AM: Head back to the harbor.

11:15 - 11:30 AM: Disembark at Ha Long Cruise Port.

Transfer: Meet your driver at the harbor for the journey back to Hanoi, including a rest stop midway. You'll be dropped off at your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter.

Included:
English speaking guide (on board)
Meal: B, L
Entrance fees
Leisure: Morning Tai Chi
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Conifer Grand Hotel(ROH Room)
42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Transferring to airport for flights to next destinations

Private driver will pick you up at the hotel lobby (Hanoi Old Quarter) for about 45 minutes to Noi Bai airport (international or domestic hall according to your request). Thanks for the visit to our city.

Note: International flights require you to be at the airport 3 hours and domestic is 2 hours before departure time.

Included:
Meal: B
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day

Cost Includes

  • English speaking tour guide following itinerary
  • All entrance fees and tickets mention on itinerary
  • Selected Accommodations with daily breakfast
  • Cruise: Swan Cruise - 2D1N
  • Boat: Ben Tre, Long Xuyen, Cam Thanh, Tra Nhieu - Cam Thanh, Sinh - Tien Non
  • Private car following itinerary
  • Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Halong
  • Train: SE2 (Hue - Hanoi)
  • Flight Ticket: VN138 SGN - DAD (Vietnam Airlines - Economy)
  • Meal: Breakfast: 20, Lunch: 16, Dinner: 06
  • Bike: Ben Tre, Long Xuyen, Hoi An, Hue, Nghia Lo
  • Kayak: Halong
  • Leisure: Foot massage, Water puppet, Swimming, Morning Tai Chi
  • Tuk Tuk: Ben Tre
  • Cooking class: Ben Tre homestay, Cam Thanh, Halong (on board) - cooking demonstration
  • Service charges and Taxes

Cost Excludes

  • International flight from/to your country
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Tipping and Gratuities
  • Other not mentioned in the program
What does the tour include?

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The tour includes accommodations, daily breakfast, transportation, guided tours in various languages, entrance fees to attractions, and some meals. Specific inclusions can vary by itinerary.

 

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How many people can join the tour?

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This is a private tour, so the number of participants can vary based on your group size. We can accommodate solo travelers to larger groups.

 

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Is this tour suitable for families?

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Yes! The tour is family-friendly and can be tailored to accommodate different age groups and interests.

 

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What is the best time of year to take this tour?

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The best time to visit Vietnam varies by region, but generally, late autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) are ideal for pleasant weather.

 

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What should I pack for the trip?

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We recommend packing light, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket for cooler regions, and essential items like sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.

 

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How do I book the tour?

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You can book the tour through our website or by contacting our customer service team directly. A deposit is typically required to secure your reservation.

 

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You can send your enquiry via the form below.

From Saigon to Hanoi: Vietnam Off the beaten Track | Authentic Tour – 21 Days
From $1,542
/ Adult
  • Best Price Guaranteed
  • No Booking Fees
  • Professional Local Guide