OVERVIEW

Begin your journey in the capital city Hanoi, where you'll have the opportunity to explore its charming Old Quarter and visit the city's historic landmarks. Next, visit Ninh Binh, known for its stunning Trang An karst landscapes. Take a boat tour along crystal streams surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation. Continue on to Binh Lieu, a remote and beautiful mountian district home of the high-hat Dzao hill tribe where you will embark on a wonderful trek through the mountain trails, anise and cinamon forest and jungle and discover natural watefalls. End your journey with a relaxing cruise in Halong Bay, where you'll be mesmerized by the stunning scenery of the thousands of islands and islets that dot the emerald waters. Book your trip today and discover the magic of Northern Vietnam!

Is this trip for you?

Trip Length: 8 days | Trip Style: Off the beaten tracks| Trip Theme: Local life & culture, Nature, Heritages | Physical Rating:  | Start/End city: Hanoi/Hanoi
Places visited: Hanoi - Trang An Ninh Binh - Binh Lieu Mountains - Halong Bay

Brief Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Hanoi - Hotel in Hanoi
Day 02: Hanoi sightseeing tour - Hotel in Hanoi
Day 03: Trang An Ninh Binh Karst landscapes explore - Hotel in Hanoi
Day 04: Binh Lieu mountain villages & trek - Farmstay in Binh Lieu
Day 05: Binh Lieu jungle trek & waterfalls - Farmstay in Binh Lieu
Day 06: Halong Bay cruise, kayaking & swimming - O/N on board cruiser
Day 07: Halong Bay cruise - Boat rowing & cave explore - Hotel in Hanoi
Day 08: Hanoi free & easy - Departure - See you again!

Highlights

  • Hanoi Old quarter walking tour and local street food adventure
  • Boat tour through the Trang An karst landscapes surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation.
  • Trek along terraced fields, through the anise, cinnamon, and original rain forests in Binh Lieu and discover untouched waterfalls.
  • Visit the local home of the high-hat Dzao hill tribe living in traditional rammed earth houses.
  • Enjoy a home-cooked dinner with the hill tribe
  • Participating in farm work with the locals, pick your own herbal medicine from the jungle, learning about the traditional medicinal practices of the hill tribe.
  • Relaxing cruise in Halong Bay surrounded by the stunning scenery of its thousands of islands and islets
trip advisor traveler choiceCertificate of excellenceLemetayel recomendation
booking   BEST VALUE GUARANTEE     booking   24/7 CUSTOMER CARE
 

Enquire Now Add to short list

TOUR MAP

This trip map is to help you to imagine how your trip goes. Please click on destination marks to view travel guides for each place.

Itinerary Details

Hanoi flower market - Vietnam
Hanoi Old Quarter - Hanoi tour and sightseeing

Xin chao! Welcome to Hanoi.
Upon arrival at the Noi Bai airport, you will be met and greeted by your representative man and transferred to your hotel in the city center (Check-in time is from 14,00).
Remainder of the day is free at your leisure.

Being the capital of the country, Hanoi is a city that has a great blend of old and the new, East and West, with a rich history dating back over a thousand years and a thriving modern-day culture. The city is know for its historic landmarks as well as its vibrant street scene, tree-lined boulevards, colonial-style architecture, bustling markets and there are always something for everyone to enjoy.

Take some time to rest and recover from any jet lag then, if time permits, why not step out to experience the bustling atmosphere, enjoy some local food, from traditional dishes like pho noodle soup to street-side snacks like banh mi sandwiches and enjoy a cup of traditional Vietnamese coffee at one of the many street-side cafes. Overnight in your hotel in Hanoi.

 

Summary of inclusions

transportation icon
Private airport transfer
accommodation icon
Hotel in Hanoi
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum - Hanoi- Vietnam
Hanoi cyclo tour

Breakfast at the hotel then get ready for your exploration day of Hanoi at 8.30.

Your first stop will be at the Ho Chi Minh President's Mausoleum complex that dedicated to father of modern Vietnam who affectionately called Uncle Ho by his people. Wander thru the luxuriant garden under the share of mango trees and visit his humble house on stilts, the Uncle Ho's fish pond. Nearby is the iconic One-Pillar Pagoda which stands as a symbol of Vietnamese heritage and culture.
Next, you will visit the Temple of Literature, considered to be Vietnam's first university, and admire its beautifully ornate architecture and peaceful gardens. Here you will see the remaining 82 huge stone stele those stand on stone turtle back bearing the names of those who received Doctor Laureates thru Royal examinations from 1442 to 1789.
Afterward, head to the West Lake where you'll visit Tran Quoc Pagoda that dates back from 544 BC and the Quan Thanh Temple where houses a huge bronze statue of a Taoist God, both are offering breathtaking views and serene atmosphere.

Lunch in one of finest local restaurant.

In the afternoon, hop on a leisurely cyclo ride through the maze of colorful streets and guilds in Hanoi, each traditionally devoted to a different product or industry. Witness local daily life and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this charming city.
Later on, take a walking tour around thru small streets and alleys where you'll have the chance to venture into the heart of Hanoi's street food scene. Savor some of the best street foods Hanoi has to offer.
End your day with a cup of special egg coffee in a hundred-year-old family coffee shop, where you can relax and reflect on the day's experiences.

Accommodation in hotel.

Summary of inclusions

transportation icon
Private vehicle
cyclo icon
Hanoi city sightseing
meal icon
Breakfast, lunch
accommodation
Hotel in Hanoi
Boat rowing in Trang An, Ninh Binh
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital - Ninh Binh - Vietnam

After breakfast, leave Hanoi on a short one and a haft hourscenic drive along the highway to Ninh Binh, the land known for its spectacular karst landscapes, rustic country scenery and historical vestiges.
At arrival, embark on a litle boat cruise along the Trang An river surrounded by towering mountains and lush vegetation. Soak in the tranquil beauty of this breathtaking landscape as you glide through the calm waters.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant

This afternoon you will visit the Hoa Lu ancient capital, a fascinating historical site with a rich cultural heritage. This site used to be the capital of ancient Vietnam for more than 40 years from 968 until 1010 when the capial was moved to Thang Long, present day Hanoi. Here there are temples dedicated to Kings of the Early Le and Dinh Dynasty who opened up the independece era for Vietnam and protect it from foreign threat. Explore the temples and vestiges of the once mighty capital and learn about the country's rich history. Later, if you like, make a climb up the Ma Yen Mountain to visit the King's tomb and admire the stunning views of the surrounding area. Take in the breathtaking vista of the rolling hills and pristine waters, rice padies, and charming villages.

Drive back Hanoi and take the remainder of the day at your leisure.
Accommodation in hotel in Hanoi.

Summary of inclusions

transportation icon
Private transfer
rowing icon
Trang An - Ninh binh discovery
meal icon
Breakfast, lunch
accommodation icon
Hotel in Hanoi
Binh Lieu mountain and terraces - Quang Ninh _ Vietnam
High-hat Dzao people in Binh Lieu - Quang Ninh _ Vietnam

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before departing for a scenic drive along the highway to Binh Lieu, the hidden gem of the country, a stunning mountainous landscapes located nearly 4 hours drive from Hanoi, 2 hours from Halong Bay. Nestled among lush rolling hills and fragrant forests, Binh Lieu offers a tranquil escape from the fast-paced city life. This district is home of sevral minority group including Tay, San Chi, Hoa, and the one of sub-group o Dzao ethnic with their typical, colorful costume and unique high hat.

Upon arrival, check into a charming farmstay surrounded by the natural beauties and flowers gardens.
Take a break for a delicious lunch before setting out on an afternoon trek that will take you through the picturesque setting. Explore little trails that wind through aromatic anise and cinnamon forests, terraced rice fields and hill tribe village of the high-hat Dzao. Visit local home and chat with friendly locals to learn about their daily lives, rich culture, and traditions. Enjoy a home-cooked dinner at one of the local homes with traditional food and some home brew rice whiskey.
Back to the farmstay and spend the night in a cozy tent surrounded by the peaceful nature.

Summary of inclusions

transportation icon
Private transfer
country icon
Binh Lieu hill tribe villages & trek
meal icon
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
ecolodge icon
farmstay in Binh Lieu
Trekking in Boinh Lieu - Quang Ninh - Vietnam
Traditionall singing in Binh Lieu - Quang Ninh - Vietnam

After breakfast, get transferred to the stunning village of Song Mooc. Escape to the wild beauty of Binh Lieu as youi embark on a journey of discovery and adventure with this unforgettable trekking tour today. Immerse yourself in the lush natural beauty as you visit the nearby waterfalls before making your way along little trail through aromatic anise farms and original jungle with scenery of stunning valleys and terraced fields beneath. Get up close with the nature while discovering the spectcular landscapes of Binh Lieu.

Take a break at a local home where you'll enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal. Then, continue your trekking adventure, conquering little trails that take you through the dense bamboo forests and lush tropical jungle. Reach an untouched waterfall and bask in its natural beauty, surrounded by the lush greenery.
Return to the farmstay for dinner and a well-deserved peaceful rest and sleep for second night.

Summary of inclusions

transportation icon
Private transfer
countryside icon
Binh Lieu trek & nature discovery
meal icon
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
ecolodge icon
Farmstay in Binh Lieu
Halong Bay cruise - Tours in Viettnam
Halong bay kayaking - Vietnam tours

Wake up to the sounds of nature then enjoy breakfast and take some time to wander around before embark on your drive to Halong City where you will board a luxurious boat and set sail on a breathtaking cruise through the stunning Halong Bay.
Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of the towering limestone cliffs, emerald waters, and lush vegetation that make this region so unique.
Twice recognized by UNESCO for its exceptional geographical, natual and landscaping values, Halong Bay is the huge body of water that covers an area of over one and a half thousand square kilometers, with thousands of small islands and dramatic cliffs, dotted with caves and grottoes, rise from the calm waters, creating a breathtaking landscape that truly is a masterpice of nature beauty.

Enjoy a delicious lunch on board while taking in the stunning scenery that surrounds you.
In the early afternoon, spend time to visit a breathtaking natural cave, where you'll be amazed by the wonderful rock formations and intricate stalactites and stalagmites.
Later, take a refreshing swim or paddle a kayak to get close up with the islands, and enjoy some free time to relax on one of the pristine beaches.
In the late afternoon, join in a cooking demonstration and learn about the local cuisine. Then, watch the sunset from the top deck with a cocktail in hand, and enjoy a happy hour with your fellow travelers.
Savor an enormous dinner and spend the night on board, surrounded by the beauty of Halong Bay and the star-filled sky.

Summary of inclusions

transportation icon
Private transfer
halong cruise icon
Halong Bay cruise
meal icon
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
ecolodge icon
Farmstay in Binh Lieu
The scenic Halong Bay landscapes
Boat rowing in Halong Bay

Early risers will have a chance to witness the finest beauty of Halong Bay when the sun spectacularly rises over the bay, with the first rays of sunlight illuminate the water and the towering cliffs.
Join in on a Tai Chi class on the top deck and enjoy the morning sea breeze as you practice this traditional form of exercise.
Enjoy a light breakfast and coffee then embark on a bamboo boat ride to visit a floating village where you'll have the opportunity to see the local way of life, learn about the culture and traditions of the people who live in floating homes.
Return to the boat and prepare for check-out.
Enjoy your brunch as the boat cruise back and you will reach the harbor around 11.30 AM. Say goodbye to the Halong Bay and take a bus drive back to Hanoi.
Check in hotel and remainder of the day is free at your leisure. Take the opportunity to explore further of this vibrant city, sample some special the local food you have not had tried, or join with local at a street side shop for a glass of "Bia Hoi".

Accommodation in hotel.

Summary of inclusions

transportation icon
Private transfer
halong cruise icon
Halong Bay cruise
meal icon
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
ecolodge icon
Farmstay in Binh Lieu
Foods in Hanoi - Vietnam tours
The old Long Bien Bridge - Hanoi - Vietnam

Today is the last day of your tour. Free to take this morning to enjoy the sights and sounds of Hanoi. Wander the streets, do some last-minute shopping, and soak up the atmosphere of this vibrant city.
Check out of the hotel at 12.00 PM and get transferred to the airport for your flight home or to your next destinations. Safe travel and see you again!

Summary of inclusions

meal icon
Breakfast
car icon
private airport transfers
 

Enquire Now Add to short list

IMPORTANT NOTES

Tour itinerary: This tour itinerary is designed based on local travel conditions, logistics and availabilitis of transportation between visited destinations. It is for you to see how the trip should go, what you can do, see and enjoy during the trip. The itinerary can be tailored by adding more of desired visitng destinations, activities or removing any you do not like to meet your travel time frame, style, budget and expectation the best.

Tour price: Travel Authentic Asia focus on quality and affordable package prices with the best value. The price is based on number of traveler taking the trip, the accommodation category you wish to stay, the mode of transportation, meals provided….

To book for this pre-arranged tour If you wish to take this pre-arranged itinerary with all the terms of services that clearly stated in the program, you just need click the booking button to send us an enquiry form with some necessary information. Our travel consultant will get back to you within a working day for confirmation.

Tailor your itinerary base on this trip If you wish to tailor your own itinerary with your favorite destinations, activities, accommodations and so on, you can do it right away by clicking the button "Tailor this trip" and send us an enquiry with as much as detail possible. Our travel consultants with their extensive knowledge and experience will answer all of your questions, offer suggestions and give knowledgeable advice, helping you to make a pleasant-enjoyable-worry free trip of best possible value that perfectly suits your travel needs. Please keep in mind this is your private tour so feel free to ask your travel consultant to make any changes you wish to make, at any time!

Requirement for information and help Either before or during the trip, if you wish to contact us for any query or info, you can use one of the following methods:
- Call or chat Whatsapp our 24/24 hotline: +84 912 221 442, +84 903 432 999 - Or email us at: [email protected] - Contact us via our live chat window that available on our website

Payment: A deposit of 30% of total price is needed to initiate the tour booking after the itinerary is finalized. The balance for the trip is due 15 days prior to your arrival.

Arrival and departure flights: You are advised to make your own booking for international flights from/back your home country. This allows you to determine better the travel time frame, budget and to deal with insurance claim when needed. Travel Authentic Asia team will base on your flight schedule to work out the best itinerary for you or/and to modify the itinerary to get it matches.

Travel documents: You must carry a valid passport and have obtained all of the appropriate visas, permits and certificates for the countries in which you will visit during your trip. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the duration of the trip. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of the correct visas, permits and certificates for your trip. Travel Authentic Asia accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever for the failure of clients to obtain appropriate documentation.

Travel insurance: It is your responsibility to get your own international travel insurance and read the insurance policy before you travel and ensure that the insurance scheme provides with the requisite level of cover. Insurance should cover personal accident and medical expenses, evacuation and repatriation, baggage loss, and cancellation or curtailment of vacation. In some cases, travelers may have pre-existing medical conditions which their travel insurance company will not cover.
Other than local travel insurance(s) included in sightseeing tickets at sites, Travel Authentic Asia does not provide any kind of travel insurance on the trip except required and paid separately from the tour price.

Weather The weather in this part of Southeast Asia is varied depening on the region and season. In the winter time from Nov to Feb, the temperature in some area such as North Vietnam, especially mountainous areas can be as low as 2-4 Degree Celsius (35 Degree Fahrenheit) and pretty cold. Other parts can be warm with temperature up to 36 Degree Celsius or more (96 Degree Fahrenheit). So, to know the weather condition of destination you visit, please consult our travel consultant or you can check it here on our website

What to take What you need to bring will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. Generally speaking you should pack as lightly as possible. It is advisable to have your backpack or suitcase with wheels. An overnight bag with a shoulder strap or little backpacks is convenient to carry water and a camera etc for day trips. Warm clothes and light jacket are needed for the North Vietnam and northern Lao during the winter time from November to March. Sunblock, swimsuits and a light raincoat is advised all year round

 
Enquire Now Add to short list

GET ON WITH US

Stay in touch and get interesting updates about travel inspiration, trending destinations and amazing offers

Travel Guide
Find info about your travel place

Newsletter