This 10-day journey takes you through Vietnam’s stunning Tonkin region, offering a perfect blend of cultural immersion, breathtaking landscapes, and historical discoveries. From Hanoi’s bustling charm to the serene rice terraces of Mu Cang Chai and the iconic Halong Bay, this itinerary is packed with unforgettable experiences.
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
Arrive in Hanoi, where your guide and driver will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day relaxing or exploring the city at your leisure. Hotel check-in is available from 2 PM. Overnight in Hanoi.
Day 2: Hanoi to Muong Lo
After breakfast, depart for Muong Lo, the second-largest rice granary in Northwest Vietnam and home to the Thai ethnic group. En route, visit Mr. Tung’s family to learn about traditional green tea production. Take a short walk in Muong Lo to explore its unique irrigation systems and traditional stilt houses. Overnight at a local homestay.
Transfer: 5h / 200 km
Walking time: 1-1.5 hours
Difficulty level: Easy
Day 3: Muong Lo to Mu Cang Chai
Travel through the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, stopping for a scenic trek through the terraced rice fields of Lim Thai village. Visit the Khau Pha Pass, offering breathtaking views at 1,580 meters above sea level. Continue to the village of La Pan Tan, known as the “capital of rice terraces in Vietnam.” Overnight at a homestay in Mu Cang Chai.
Transfer: 2.5h / 100 km
Trekking: 5h / 12 km (+300m/-300m)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Day 4: Mu Cang Chai to Sapa via Sin Chai
Depart for Sapa, crossing Vietnam’s highest pass at 2,047 meters. Stop at the Heaven Gate to enjoy panoramic views of Mount Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina. In the afternoon, trek through Hoang Lien National Park to visit Sin Chai village, home to the Black Hmong people. Overnight at a hotel in Sapa.
Transfer: 4h / 150 km
Trekking: 2h / 8 km
Difficulty level: Easy
Day 5: Sapa – Cat Cat – Y Linh Ho – Lao Chai – Ta Van
Explore the Black Hmong village of Cat Cat, where locals cultivate rice, corn, and flax. Pass through the villages of Y Linh Ho and Lao Chai before reaching Ta Van, home to the Dzay and Red Dao ethnic groups. Overnight at a homestay in Ta Van.
Trekking: 5h / 12 km (+200m/-200m)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Day 6: Ta Van – Giang Ta Chai – Hanoi
Trek through lush bamboo forests and terraced fields to the Red Dao village of Giang Ta Chai. After visiting a waterfall and a suspension bridge, return to Hanoi by car. Overnight in Hanoi.
Trekking: 3h / 8 km
Transfer: 6h / 320 km
Difficulty level: Moderate
Day 7: Hanoi – Tam Coc
Drive to Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital, and explore its historic temples. At Tam Coc, embark on a two-hour sampan boat ride through caves and rice fields, followed by a bike ride to Bich Dong Pagoda. Overnight in Ninh Binh.
Transfer: 2.5h / 100 km
Boating: 2h
Cycling: 1h / 8 km
Day 8: Tam Coc – Halong Bay
Travel to Halong Bay and board a traditional junk boat for an overnight cruise. Explore limestone karsts, hidden caves, and fishing villages. Enjoy freshly prepared seafood on board. Overnight in a private cabin.
Transfer: 3h / 180 km
Day 9: Halong Bay – Hanoi
Continue exploring Halong Bay in the morning with a visit to a stunning cave. After brunch, disembark and return to Hanoi, stopping at But Thap Pagoda along the way. Enjoy a water puppet show in the evening. Overnight in Hanoi.
Transfer: 3.5h / 180 km
Day 10: Hanoi City Tour and Departure
Discover Hanoi’s iconic landmarks, including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (exterior), the One Pillar Pagoda, Tran Quoc Pagoda, and the Temple of Literature. Stroll through the Old Quarter and visit Hoan Kiem Lake. Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
Why Choose This Tour?
Cultural Immersion: Experience local life through homestays and interactions with ethnic communities.
Scenic Landscapes: From terraced rice fields to limestone karsts, this tour showcases Vietnam’s natural beauty.
Historical Discoveries: Visit ancient capitals, iconic temples, and UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Inclusions
- Accommodation in hotels and homestays.
- Daily breakfast and meals as specified in the itinerary.
- Private transportation with air-conditioned vehicles.
- Professional English-speaking guides.
- Entrance fees for listed attractions.
- Trekking and cycling support as specified.
Exclusions
- International flights to and from Vietnam.
- Visa fees for Vietnam.
- Travel insurance (mandatory).
- Personal expenses, including drinks, tips, and optional activities.
