Overview
We enjoy a range of in-depth exploration of landscapes, people and culture including trekking through hill tribe villages, learning the secrets of hand-made rice noodles and spring rolls in the cozy atmosphere of Vietnamese families.
Combining with the adventure of cruising amongst the striking limestone peaks and cycling through peaceful countryside, offers an unique way to appreciate the warmth of local people and a perfect illustration to show the cultural and hidden charms of Northern Vietnam.
- Duration: 7 days / 6 nights
- Tour Type:
- Departure:
- Theme: Adventure Tours
Tour itinerary
Departing from Hanoi, we head west to the rural Mai Chau – a picturesque valley where White Thai, Dao, H’mong and Tay people all live in harmony. Then we trek along footpath through terraced rice paddies, maize fields, hills. Later, we continue to the Tong Dau village, nestled beneath the valley and home to White Thai people. We spend the night with a local family to experience their daily life.
Accommodation: Homestay
Our adventure will begin with the trek along a small path surrounded by terraced paddies and magnificent hills, till we reach Na Mo – a White Thai minority village. Here, we have lunch in a local home. As we hike along the trail used by local people, the circled view becomes more and more striking.
Following a delightful bicycle ride, we will transfer to the Black river for a relaxing two-hour boat ride on the tranquil river. We then drop off at a Muong village by the river. Tonight our hosts offer us a traditional dinner and a toast, before an overnight stay with them in a traditional wooden stilt-house.
Accommodation: Homestay
After saying goodbye to our friendly host, we appreciate the majestic view along the river bank, through picturesque villages, verdant hills and terraced paddies. Next, it is our journey to Ninh Binh province. From here, we explore the floating village of Kenh Ga and look at the amazing ragged cliff face caused by earth movement some hundred million years ago.
Arriving in Trang An, an area which features rock formations and dotted villages, we spend the night in a local family.
Accommodation: Homestay
A short transfer brings us to Ninh Xuan with its dramatic limestone mountains, our base for a day trip out into the Red River Delta. We take a sampan/bamboo boat through the canal where possesses some amazing limestone outcrops. We cycle past the Inland Ha Long Bay. Beautiful landscapes meet us on arrival in the Bich Dong area – a firm favorite with walkers.
After that, there is plenty of time for our hands-on cooking class with fresh ingredients. We settle in with a local family making fresh rice noodles and other authentic Northern Vietnamese dishes – a superb way to gain a first-hand experience of rural life in the delta. Spend the night in the same lodge.
Accommodation: Homestay
Start our morning by leaving Ninh Binh for Halong City. Then we embark on a boat trip to take in the spectacular limestone peaks and the sublime beauty of the bay. Those are feeling energetic and wish to get a close view of the scenic floating village of Cua Van and towering rock formations can take a kayaking ride before we anchor our boat to overnight on boat.
Accommodation: Halong bay cruise
Rise early to see some of the bay’s truly awesome scenery – vertical and unusual rocks and islets emerge from the sea. Weather permitting, there will be an opportunity to swim in the clear waters. If weather permits, we can take a kayaking ride around these spectacular rock formations and fishing villages nearby. Follow all the activities on board (detailed itinerary will be depended on which cruise you choose)
At our warm and friendly lodge we have the opportunity to learn to make seafood dish and other dishes. Tonight we stay overnight in our comfortable lodge.
Accommodation: Halong bay cruise
Early risers can enjoy a memorable sunrise over the karst formations of Halong Bay. Breakfast will be served shortly thereafter.
Enjoy breakfast (brunch on some boats) while the vessels cruises slowly through the magnificent rock formations back towards port. Follow our local guide continue cruising to explore the most stunning caves in Halong and have the brunch on board. Upon disembarkation, our driver will be waiting to provide transport to Hanoi.
It is the end of our journey and we will return to Hanoi at around 6 p.m
Hotel in Hanoi is on your own arrangement.
Price & Inclusion
| Tour Class | Price | Booking | |
| Deluxe | USD $499 | USD $438 | |
NOTE: PRICE PER PERSON
* Please contact our travel consultants at sales@vietodyssey.com to get discount for big group OR special price for children (under 10 years old).
* Private tour for a solo traveler is also available with a surcharge. Single supplement: applies for those who travelling with others but requires an single room for him/herself.
* The prices above are for the ready-to-book adventure outlined in this detailed program which has been handcrafted by our product experts to include the best of every destination. Our travel consultants are also happy to customize this journey to suit your specific interests and style of travel: longer or shorter stays, offer hotel upgrades, or add an extension to additional places of interes
Accommodation
Homestays (2 nights)
Lodges (3 nights)
Boat (1 night)
Clean and comfortable homestays with mosquito nets provided.
Meals
6 breakfasts
7 lunches
6 dinners
We choose local ingredients, typical of the way people eat in the area, at local restaurants, markets or homes. We also cater for Vegetarians but please request this at time of booking.
Price Includes
Accommodation as mentioned in the Itinerary
Transportation
Meals
Tour Guides
Entrance fees
Permits during guided excursions.
Price Excludes
Hanoi Hotels
Travel insurance
Drinks (soft drinks, alcohol and bottled water)
Personal expenses
Physical Activities
Physical activities:
Easy walking, hiking, cycling and kayaking with:
- a 7-9 km hike on Day 1.
- a 9-12 km hike on Day 2.
- a 1-2 hour bicycle ride on Day 2.
- a 6-8 km hike on Day 3.
- a 9-10 km bicycle ride on Day 4.
- a 1-hour bicycle ride on Day 7.
- a 1-hour kayaking ride on Day 7.
From July to September, the climate is usually humid and hot. From October to June brings cooler and more pleasant weather.
