The North-East of Vietnam is still relatively untouched by the outside world. This package tour invites you to conquer the unspoiled hidden trails through colorful ethnic minority villages and witness the majestic scenery of the towering mountains. Then relax on a cruise amongst thousands of limestone islands on Ha Long Bay before travelling to the coastal heritage sites of Central Vietnam….
- Hanoi - Ha Giang - Dong Van - Bao Lac - Ba Be - Bai Tu Long bay - Hoi An - My Son - Hue
- Hanoi
Overview
Overview
Start/End: Hanoi/Hanoi
Visit: Hanoi – Ha Giang – Dong Van – Bao Lac – Ba Be – Bai Tu Long bay – Hoi An – My Son – Hue
Duration: 15 Days
Travel style: Authentic, Mountain & Minority, Nature & Discover
Category: Private tour
Tour schedule: Daily departure
Tour guide in: English, Français, Español, Deutsch, Italiano
Highlights
- Encounters with minority groups: Dao, Bo Y, H'mong, Black Lo Lo, San Chi, Tay
- Trekking, Biking and boating trip
- Stunning mountainous landscapes and nature discovery: Limestone rock plateau zone, Ma Pi Leng pass, Ba Be national park, Halong Bay
- Homestay experience
- Overnight on Ha Long Bay Cruise
- Charming Hoi An and Hue former ancient capital
Itinerary
Welcome to Hanoi, enjoy a walking tour in the old quarter
Landing at the Noi Bai airport, you are welcomed by professional tour guide and driver at the pickup lobby. Enjoy 45-minute driving to the city center (Hanoi Old Quarter) with city's briefing information about the most visited spots, culture, traffic and cuisine....Arrive in your hotel, check in and have a rest.
Note: Hotel check in time at 14.00
Continue the day with a walking tour. Start with a small pagoda named Ba Da quietly located in a small alley - only few steps from the Hanoi Great Cathedral, built by French colonialism since the 19th century. Your tour guide also takes you to typical streets of Hanoi such as Lan Ong Street selling traditional medicine, Lo Ren Street where metal items are produced ... Stop to visit the Dong Xuan central market - the largest in Hanoi. Continue walking to the famous area for night activities and street food - Ta Hien street, where you can see the vibrant streets with a lot of the amazing local foods and drinks. Trying to taste some for an unforgettable experience.
End at your hotel.
Note: If your flight arrives late or you are jet leg after long flight, the walking tour will be moved to the city tour day.
Included:
English speaking guide
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Conifer Grand Hotel(ROH Room)
42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
Exploring the center of culture & education Van Mieu, outstanding museum of ethnology, visiting French Quarter and discovering Old town
9:00 AM: Embark on a journey to the Sanctuary of Writing, an ancient site from the 11th century dedicated to honoring Confucius and educating royal scholars under the Ly dynasty. Take a leisurely stroll through the garden to admire Khue Van Cac, the iconic symbol of the city. Then, delve into the historic Stone Steles, which commemorate the names of distinguished scholars. Continue your exploration at the Quoc Tu Giam, Vietnam's first national university, renowned for its rich heritage.
Next, head to the Ethnology Museum, which offers an in-depth look at Vietnamese culture through its traditional houses, tools, and costumes from various ethnic groups. Spend about two hours immersing yourself in the fascinating exhibits.
Wander through Hanoi's charming French Quarter, with its grand squares, historic government buildings, and tree-lined streets, often referred to as the city's "Little Paris." Stop by the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum for a brief visit before taking a peaceful walk through the nearby botanical gardens. Discover the Presidential Palace, where Ho Chi Minh once lived and worked, and explore the iconic One-Pillar Pagoda, a symbol of the city.
Depending on your pace, you can explore this area for one to two hours. Finally, return to the city center to unwind before enjoying a traditional water puppet show. Originating in the 11th century, these performances feature puppets dancing on water, vividly depicting Vietnamese culture, beliefs, and daily life, often accompanied by traditional music.
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
Travelling to Ha Giang, enjoying scenic drive, trek route: Me - Lup - Tha villages
8:00 AM: Depart from your Hanoi hotel and head towards Ha Giang via the Phu Tho highway. En route, make a stop at the Dao village in Ham Yen, Tuyen Quang. Here, you'll observe traditional stilt houses, a distinctive feature of the region’s ethnic communities.
Arrive in Ha Giang by mid-afternoon and begin your exploration of the nearby villages of Me, Lup, and Tha. These picturesque villages are known for their tranquil beauty and stilt houses made of wood and palm leaves. You’ll notice water hyacinth ponds used for raising pigs and small fish, and the friendly locals will greet you warmly, showcasing their renowned hospitality.
Experience the local lifestyle by visiting a traditional home and interacting with the villagers. As you reach Tha Village, enjoy its peaceful setting amid rice fields and palm trees. End your day by checking into your accommodation and taking a leisurely walk around the village, allowing yourself to absorb the calm and charm of mountain life as evening approaches.
Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Ha Giang Homestay (Mr Toi) (Sharing homestay) Ha Thanh village. Ha Giang city, Ha Giang , Vietnam
A great driving to Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, Twin Fairy mountain, home to Hmong & Bo Y ethnic people, H'mong King palace
8:00 AM: Begin your journey to Dong Van, where you’ll encounter the mystical landscapes that define this region. Along the way, make a stop at a Bo Y village in the Quyet Tien commune. This small community, with a population of around 2,000, traces its origins to China and is nestled in the rugged northern mountains.
Continue your drive to the Quan Ba pass, where you can take a moment to admire the stunning views of Quan Ba town, highlighted by the iconic Twin Fairy Mountains (Nui Co Tien). From there, proceed to the Limestone Plateau, often compared to the rugged Halong Bay due to its striking natural formations. This area is recognized in the UNESCO Global Geoparks listing for its remarkable geological features.
As you travel, stop by "Nha Trinh Tuong," a unique type of house in Lung Hoa Town. These Hmong homes, built on sticky soil, showcase traditional architectural styles specific to the region.
Next, visit the Dinh Vua Meo, the palace of the H'mong King. A century ago, the regions of Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Dong Van, and Meo Vac were an independent zone with their own monarch. Their economy thrived on opium trade with China and poppy cultivation.
Arrive in Dong Van, check into your accommodation, and take some time to relax and absorb the local atmosphere.
Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Hoa Cuong Hotel(Double Room)
Dong Van town, Dong Van district, Ha Giang , Vietnam
From Dong Van to Bao Lac, crossing Ma Pi Leng Pass, visiting Lo Lo & H'mong minority
After breakfast at your hotel, depart Dong Van and head towards Meo Vac, traversing the breathtaking Ma Pi Leng Pass. This route offers stunning views of limestone mountains, the Nho Que River, and picturesque H'mong villages nestled in the mountains.
Continue your journey to Bao Lac, renowned for its Black Lo ethnic community. The area gained prominence through the French documentary "Voyage into the Unknown," filmed by rugby player Frederik Michalak in the Lo Lo village of Khuoi Khon, located 9 km from Bao Lac town.
Enjoy lunch in Bao Lac before checking into your hotel. In the afternoon, travel to Coc Xa village in the Na Van commune. Unlike Khuoi Khon, Coc Xa remains more traditional and less influenced by tourism. Explore the local homes, wander through rice fields and village trails, and engage with the residents to gain insight into their daily lives and customs.
Return to Bao Lac in the evening and relax at your hotel for the night.
Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Duc Tai Hotel(Twin Room)
Bao Lac town, Cao Bang , Vietnam
Encounter San Chi at hidden hill village. Keep going on to Ba Be
Take the Tinh Tuc route to Ba Be, with a fascinating detour to a beautiful San Chi ethnic village, situated 30 kilometers from Bao Lac in the Hung Dao commune. This village, tucked away in a secluded area behind the hills, offers a rare glimpse into a hidden part of the region. The village features traditional stilt houses set against the backdrop of stunning valley views.
To reach the village, you’ll hike up a steep 2 km trail. The climb rewards you with increasingly spectacular views of the valley below. Spend time visiting a local family to gain insight into the authentic life of the San Chi people.
Continue your journey to Ba Be, where you’ll be mesmerized by the striking landscape where mountains gently blend with verdant rice terraces. Stop frequently to capture the picturesque scenery with your camera.
Upon arriving in Ba Be, check into your accommodation in Pac Ngoi Village. In the afternoon, explore nearby Tay ethnic communities and venture to the Hua Ma Cave, located 5 km from the village. The cave is renowned for its impressive formations of stalactites and stalagmites.
Return to Pac Ngoi for a relaxing evening at your hotel.
Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Bike: Ba Be
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Ba Be Homestay (Sharing homestay)
Ba Be lake, Pac Ngoi village, Ba Be district, Bac Kan , Vietnam
Relaxing boat trip, explore Puong cave and Dau Dang waterfall - Transferring back to Hanoi
Enjoy a relaxing boat trip as you explore Ba Be's natural wonders. In the morning, stroll from the village to the dock and embark on a scenic boat ride across the serene lake, where swimming is an option. Your first stop will be Fairy Lake, nestled in the pristine forest.
Next, head towards the Nang River. Walk along the riverbank and immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of the surrounding wilderness, eventually reaching the stunning Dau Dang Waterfall. Continue your boat journey upstream along the Nang River to the remarkable Puong Cave, home to thousands of bats. The boat will navigate through the cave and proceed to Buoc Lom dock.
Meet your driver at the dock for your transfer back to Hanoi. You will arrive in Hanoi by late afternoon. After your mountain retreat, check into your hotel and enjoy some leisure time to unwind and explore the city.
Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B
Boat: Ba Be
Private transportation
Entrance fees
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: Begin with a pick-up from your Hanoi Old Quarter hotel and enjoy a scenic three-hour drive to Bai Tu Long Bay. You'll pass through villages and rice fields in the Red River Delta. A short stop will be made for refreshments and restroom facilities. Arrive at the harbor around noon and receive a warm welcome at the cruise reception.
07:30 – 8:30: Our driver will pick you up from your hotel in the Old Quarter (for private transfers) or from our Shuttle Bus stop (for shared transfers). We will travel towards Halong City.
12:15: Upon arrival at Sunworld Harbor, you’ll have a brief period to relax before boarding the Garden Bay Classic Cruise.
12:30: Transfer to the Garden Bay Classic Cruise Boat via tender (5-10 minutes). Enjoy a warm welcome, a safety briefing, and settle into your cabin.
13:00: Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese Set Menu while cruising to the Cap La area in Bai Tu Long Bay.
15:30: Take a kayaking trip to discover the stunning limestone islands and islets. You can also swim, sunbathe, and relax.
17:30: Join the Sunset Party on the sundeck as the boat heads to the Cong Do area for the night (Happy Hour from 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm).
18:30: Participate in a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes.
19:30: Enjoy a BBQ dinner on the sundeck (note: this is not available until October).
21:00: Spend your evening relaxing on the sundeck or try squid fishing. Board games are also available for fun.
Included:
Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Halong
English speaking guide (on board)
Meal: B, L, D
Boat: Halong bamboo boat
Entrance fees
Leisure: Swimming
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Garden Bay Cruise - 2D1N(Deluxe Cabin)
73 Ly Nam De street, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
Visiting the charm of Thien Canh Son cave, stunning cruising and back to Hanoi for flight to Danang, Hoi An
06:30: Start your day early with a Tai Chi session.
07:00: Enjoy a light Western-style breakfast as the boat sails towards Ha Long Bay’s most picturesque fishing village.
07:30: Transfer to Vung Vieng Fishing Village by tender.
08:00: Experience a rowing boat ride, guided by a local fisherman, to explore Vung Vieng and learn about the traditional fishing lifestyle.
09:00: Return to the main boat for a scenic cruise back to the harbor via a different route.
09:30: Check out of your cabin.
10:00: Enjoy a Fusion-style lunch onboard.
11:00: Disembark at Sunworld Harbor. Your driver will be waiting to take you back to Hanoi, with an expected arrival time of around 3:00 PM.
You’ll be welcomed by your driver at the harbor and have a rest stop en route to Hanoi. Upon arrival, you'll be dropped off at your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter.
A private driver will then pick you up from your hotel lobby and transport you to Noi Bai Airport, taking about 45 minutes, based on your request for either the international or domestic terminal. Thank you for visiting our city.
Note: For international flights, arrive at the airport 3 hours before departure; for domestic flights, 2 hours.
Upon landing at Da Nang Airport, a professional tour guide and driver will greet you at the arrival lobby.
During the 30-45 minute drive to your accommodation, your tour guide will provide insights into the city's highlights, dining options, traffic, and culture.
Enjoy the drive along the scenic coastline to your hotel, where you can check in and unwind.
Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Leisure: Morning Tai Chi
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Flight :VN181 (HAN - DAD) - (Direct) / 16:10 - 17:40 - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 06 tickets
La Charm Hoi An Hotel & Spa(Superior Room)
64 Dao Duy Tu, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam
Discovering Hoi An rural by cycling and city walking tour
8:00 AM: Begin your day with a journey from your hotel to Hoi An. Start by visiting Cam Pho, an ancient communal house renowned for its unique Chinese character-shaped design. This historic building has long served as a center for worship, trade, and cultural interaction among locals and foreign traders from China and Japan.
Take a leisurely walk to Chua Cau, the famous Japanese Covered Bridge. Built in the 17th century, this bridge was originally constructed to connect the Chinese and Japanese quarters of the town and has been meticulously preserved over the centuries.
Next, head to the Quan Thang Ancient House, one of the most well-preserved traditional homes in Hoi An. Its intricate architecture and detailed carvings, created by skilled artisans from the Kim Bong carpentry village, provide a fascinating insight into local history and family life.
Before crossing the Thu Bon River, visit the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall. Afterward, board a ferry to Kim Bong village. Enjoy the scenic boat ride and the fresh air as you pass through the tranquil countryside.
In Kim Bong, known for its wood carving expertise, you can observe artisans at work and learn about their craft. This village has a rich history of incorporating techniques from northern Vietnam, China, and Japan into their unique style. Take a bike ride through the village to see daily life and visit a workshop to view the skilled craftsmanship. You might also pick up some wooden souvenirs.
Continue your bike ride to Tra Nhieu village, where you’ll experience the rural charm of Vietnam’s heartland. Meet local artisans like Ms. Duoc, who creates traditional woven mats; Mr. Kha, who makes bamboo boats; and Mr. Huynh Ri, a master shipbuilder. Enjoy the scenic countryside with its palm trees, rice fields, and buffaloes.
From Tra Nhieu, board a boat on the Thu Bon River to Cam Thanh village. As you travel, take in views of fishing farms and water palm trees. Upon arrival in Cam Thanh, visit Mr. Phong’s house, a local fisherman, where you can enjoy a relaxing foot massage and herbal green tea from the family garden.
Then, head to Tra Que village for a cooking class. Collect fresh vegetables and herbs and prepare traditional dishes like hotcakes with meat and shrimp, Hoi An spring rolls, Hat Huu, and grilled fish wrapped in banana leaves. Enjoy a delicious meal made from your own cooking.
In the afternoon, unwind with a ride in a round bamboo basket boat through the water palm forest, a tranquil experience that completes your day’s adventures. Return to your hotel in the evening to relax after a full and rewarding day.
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
La Charm Hoi An Hotel & Spa(Superior Room)
64 Dao Duy Tu, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam
Exploring My Son Sanctuary, Champa culture, unique architecture.
8:00 AM: Start your day with a pickup from your hotel by a tour guide and driver for a half-day adventure to the historic My Son Sanctuary, located 40 kilometers from Hoi An. This sacred site was once a pivotal center of the Champa Kingdom, revered for its spiritual and cultural significance, and is believed to be where Cham rulers were laid to rest.
My Son, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases approximately 70 ancient temples and structures, constructed from the 7th to the 13th centuries. Your knowledgeable guide will provide in-depth insights into the history, culture, and architectural marvels of the site as you explore its impressive ruins.
The tour also includes a captivating traditional Cham dance performance, offering a glimpse into the vibrant heritage of the Cham people.
After your visit, return to Hoi An. You’ll have the remainder of the day free to either delve deeper into the town’s charming streets or relax on the picturesque beaches.
Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
La Charm Hoi An Hotel & Spa(Superior Room)
64 Dao Duy Tu, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam
Hoian free & easy
Set a free & easy day. You can be lazy on the beach with family and friends or leisurely walk around the old town, find yourself a gift from this beautiful town or create your own journey ...
Included:
Meal: B
La Charm Hoi An Hotel & Spa(Superior Room)
64 Dao Duy Tu, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam
Travelling to Hue, visiting Cham sculpture museum, Hai Van Pass, Thien Mu Pagoda and Hue citadel
8:00 AM: Move from your hotel, traveling towards Hue via the scenic coastal route through Da Nang.
Your first stop is the Cham Museum in Da Nang, renowned for its remarkable collection of Cham artifacts that provide insights into the rich heritage of the Cham civilization.
Continue to My Khe Beach, where you can enjoy the view of the Linh Ung Pagoda and its impressive statue of the Goddess of Mercy. Take a moment to photograph the local fishermen and the picturesque coastline.
Resume your drive to Hue, making a noteworthy stop at the Hai Van Pass. From this vantage point, you'll experience stunning panoramic views of the coastline and the surrounding natural beauty.
Arrive in Hue and enjoy a delicious local lunch before heading to Thien Mu Pagoda. This historic pagoda, founded in 1601, is celebrated for its iconic seven-story tower and its serene location along the Perfume River.
In the afternoon, delve into the grandeur of the Imperial City of Hue, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former seat of Vietnamese emperors. Explore key sites such as the Flag Tower, South Gate, Palace of Supreme Harmony, the Dynasty Temple area, and the Forbidden City. The design of the Imperial City reflects the influence of Vauban’s fortifications and is divided into three main sections: Kinh Thanh (Capital City), Hoang Thanh (Imperial City), and Cam Thanh (Forbidden City).
Conclude your visit with a deeper appreciation for Hue's historical significance and architectural marvels.
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
An amazing day tour to explore Perfurme River by boat trip, excursion to Tien Non, Thanh Tien, Sinh village, Khai Dinh King's Tomb.
8:00 AM: Begin your day with a boat trip on the Huong River (Perfume River), setting off on a scenic Imperial boat tour to explore the villages located to the east of Hue. This leisurely ride offers a unique perspective of local life along the riverbanks.
Arriving in Tien Non village, disembark for a bicycle tour through the picturesque countryside, covering three villages: Tien Non, Thanh Tien, and Sinh. As you pedal through Tien Non, observe the daily activities of villagers working in their fields and gardens. Visit a traditional home to learn about local farming practices and community life.
Next, proceed to Thanh Tien village, known for its 400-year-old tradition of crafting paper flowers. Here, you'll visit Mr. Hieu, a renowned artisan, who will guide you through the process of creating these intricate paper flowers, which are used during festivals to honor ancestors.
Continue your journey to Sinh village, famous for its traditional woodblock prints. Meet Mr. Phuoc, who will explain the process of making these vibrant prints and share the village's artistic heritage. You'll have the chance to purchase unique prints as souvenirs.
Return to Hue by boat and in the afternoon, visit the tomb of King Khai Dinh on Chau Tru Hill. Completed over 11 years (1920-1931), the tomb is notable for its fusion of Eastern and Western architectural styles. Climb the one hundred steps to the top, where you’ll find the lavishly decorated worship palace, adorned with beautiful porcelain mosaics and a grand ceiling painting. Adjacent to the palace is a small museum showcasing royal artifacts.
The tour wraps up around 4:00 p.m. You can either spend an additional night in Hue or continue your travels to another destination by flight or overnight train.
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
Rosaleen Boutique Hotel(Deluxe Double Room)
36 Chu Van An street, Hue city, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam
From Hue, flying to other destinations
Private driver will pick you up at the hotel lobby (in Hue city center) for about 30 minutes to Phu Bai airport for your flight. Thanks for the visit to our city.
Note: Domestic flight requires you to be at the airport 1.5 hours before departure time.
Included:
Meal: B
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Flight :VN1540 (HUI - HAN) - (Direct) / 10:00 - 11:20 - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 06 tickets
Cost Includes
- English speaking tour guide following itinerary
- All entrance fees and tickets mention on itinerary
- Selected Accommodations with daily breakfast
- Cruise: Garden Bay Cruise - 2D1N
- Boat: Ba Be, Halong bamboo boat, Cam Thanh, Tra Nhieu - Cam Thanh, Sinh - Tien Non
- Private car following itinerary
- Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Halong
- Flight Tickets: VN181 HAN - DAD (Vietnam Airlines - Economy) , VN1540 HUI - HAN (Vietnam Airlines - Economy)
- Meal: Breakfast: 14, Lunch: 09, Dinner: 05
- Bike: Ba Be, Hoi An, Hue
- Leisure: Water puppet, Swimming, Morning Tai Chi, Foot massage
- Cooking class: Cam Thanh
- 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
The itinerary includes breathtaking mountain hikes, visits to picturesque coastal towns, cultural heritage sites, and opportunities for outdoor activities like kayaking and snorkeling.
Pack layered clothing for varying weather, sturdy hiking boots, swimwear, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and a light rain jacket. Don’t forget your camera!
Meals are typically included during guided tours. However, there will also be free time for you to explore local dining options and cuisines.
Yes, transportation is included between destinations via comfortable coaches or vans. Local transport options for excursions will also be provided.
The ideal time is during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall), when weather is mild and crowds are fewer, enhancing the overall experience.
You can book through our website or by contacting our customer service team. Early booking is recommended to secure your spot.