Discover an authentic and unspoiled side of northwest Vietnam on this 10-day journey through mountains, hidden valleys and turquoise waters. Starting from Hanoi, explore the charm of northwest Vietnam, where secret valleys, shimmering terraced rice fields, traditional ethnic villages and stilt houses offer a rare glimpse into local life and age-old traditions.
After the mountain scenery of northwest Vietnam, the journey continues toward the serene beauty of Lan Ha bay, a lesser-known yet equally enchanting alternative to Halong Bay. Here, limestone karsts, floating villages and calm emerald waters create a magical setting for a memorable cruise, perfectly complementing this Vietnam mountain journey.
An experience to remember
Cultural immersion: Meet Thai, Hmong and Dao communities and discover their ancestral traditions during an In-depth regional discovery.
Breathtaking landscapes: From terraced rice fields and secluded valleys of northwest Vietnam to hidden coves and karst formations in Lan Ha bay.
Soft adventure: Enjoy cycling, easy hikes, boat trips and kayaking, accessible to most travelers.
Authentic experiences: Stay overnight with local families and cruise aboard a private junk, far from mass tourism.
Perfect balance: A harmonious blend of nature, culture and relaxation, offering new discoveries every day.
Day 1: Hanoi – Arrival and Free Exploration
Day 2: Hanoi – Temples and Culture
Day 3: Hanoi – Mai Chau
Day 4: Mai Chau – Pu Luong
Day 5: Pu Luong – Tam Coc
Day 6: Tam Coc – Boat Ride and Cycling
Day 7: Tam Coc – Lan Ha bay
Day 8: Lan Ha bay – Island Exploration
Day 9: Lan Ha bay – Return to Hanoi
Day 10: Hanoi – Departure
Upon arrival in Hanoi, you are warmly welcomed by your guide and driver and transferred to your hotel in the heart of the city. Formerly known as Thang Long, Hanoi blends centuries-old traditions with modern life in a unique harmony.
The afternoon is free to stroll through the Old Quarter, observe daily life and enjoy a Vietnamese coffee. Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple offer a picturesque introduction to the capital and serve as the perfect gateway before heading toward northwest Vietnam.
Overnight: Hotel
Today is dedicated to discovering Hanoi’s cultural heritage. Visit the Ethnology Museum, showcasing costumes, musical instruments and traditional houses of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. Continue to the Temple of Literature and Tran Quoc Pagoda, iconic symbols of spirituality and learning.
Enjoy a walk through the Old Quarter, including a stop at the famous Train Street. End the day with a traditional water puppet show, a unique art form rooted in rural life. This cultural immersion sets the tone for your upcoming Vietnam mountain journey into northwest Vietnam.
Overnight: Hotel
Depart for Mai Chau, a peaceful valley nestled in northwest Vietnam. Along the way, travel through rice fields, rolling hills and traditional villages, with lunch at a local restaurant.
Upon arrival, you are welcomed by a Thai family at a homestay and take part in preparing dinner. Stilt houses and surrounding rice paddies create an idyllic setting for an authentic and relaxing introduction to life in northwest Vietnam.
Overnight: Homestay
Journey deeper into northwest Vietnam toward Pu Luong Nature Reserve, a true hidden gem. The route winds through mountains, rivers and traditional villages. Enjoy an easy walk along scenic trails overlooking terraced rice fields and meet Thai and Black Hmong communities.
The afternoon is free to explore nearby villages or simply relax amid untouched landscapes. Overnight at a homestay, fully immersed in the natural beauty of northwest Vietnam.
Overnight: Homestay
Depart for Tam Coc, famous for its limestone karsts rising above emerald rice fields. Lunch at a local restaurant en route.
After check-in, enjoy free time to explore the surroundings, admire the sunset and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. This day marks a gentle transition from the mountains of northwest Vietnam to the river landscapes of the Red River Delta.
Overnight: Hotel
Take a traditional sampan boat ride along the Ngo Dong river, drifting through caves and lush rice fields. Continue with a cycling excursion to Bich Dong Pagodas, then visit Hoa Lu, the former capital of Vietnam, with its royal temples and landscaped gardens.
This day beautifully blends nature and culture, echoing the spirit of northwest Vietnam through its harmony between people and landscape.
Overnight: Hotel
Early departure to Cat Ba island, followed by boarding a traditional junk to explore Lan Ha bay, one of Vietnam’s most unspoiled coastal areas.
Enjoy lunch on board featuring fresh seafood, with opportunities for kayaking or swimming. Limestone formations rising from turquoise waters create a dreamlike setting. Overnight on board in a comfortable cabin, gently rocked by the sea.
Overnight: Junk
A full day cruising through Lan Ha bay, discovering floating villages, impressive caves and hidden coves. Optional light hiking on Cat Ba Island offers panoramic views over the bay.
This day provides an In-depth regional discovery, far from crowds, within a pristine natural environment.
Overnight: Junk
Enjoy a final swim or kayaking session in the morning before returning to Hanoi by road, with lunch along the way.
Arrive in the afternoon and enjoy free time for shopping, walking or tasting local specialties. A perfect moment to reflect on the highlights of northwest Vietnam and the serenity of Lan Ha bay.
Overnight: Hotel
Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy your last moments in Hanoi at leisure before transfer to the airport.
End of services, carrying unforgettable memories of northwest Vietnam, its mountains, cultures and landscapes, blended with a serene coastal escape.
From USD 720 per person
Private airport-hotel-airport transfers and all transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle throughout the tour.
Accommodation as specified in the itinerary: hotels, local homestays, and a private cabin on the cruise.
Meals as mentioned in the program (daily breakfast, selected lunches and dinners).
Experienced English-speaking guide throughout the journey.
All activities and excursions listed in the itinerary, including:
Sampan boat trip in Tam Coc
Hiking through ethnic minority villages in Northwest Vietnam
Cruise and kayaking experience in Lan Ha bay
Entrance fees to all sightseeing attractions and national parks included in the program.
International flights.
Beverages, meals not mentioned in the itinerary, and personal expenses.
Tips and optional services.
Comprehensive travel insurance (cancellation, luggage, medical coverage).
Optional activities or additional excursions not included in the program.
Ideal season: October to April for visiting Northern and Central Vietnam.
November – December: Clear skies and bright landscapes.
February – March: Green rice fields and spring flowers.
Not recommended: May to September due to heavy rainfall and high humidity.
We offer flexible payment options for your convenience:
Contact QASIA TRAVEL for further details, a personalized quotation, or to book your 6-day Northern Vietnam tour.
🌐 Website: QAsia Travel
📧 Email: voyagevietnam.qag@gmail.com
📘 Facebook: Travel in Vietnam
💬 WhatsApp: (+84) 988 555 034
0988555034
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