Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi city tour on foot – Street eats after dark

Upon arrival in Hanoi, take a walking tour around Hoan Kiem Lake ("Lake of the Returned Sword") and the Old Quarter, renowned for its ‘36 streets of 36 wares’ dating back to the 13th century. Wander the maze of narrow backstreets lined with unique “tube houses,” built to evade frontage taxes, offering a fascinating glimpse into Hanoi’s vibrant street life.

In the evening, depart your hotel at 18:00 for a guided food tour. Stroll through the Old Quarter, sampling iconic Hanoian street food like Pillow cakes, fried sweet cakes, Pho Ga (Vietnamese chicken noodle soup), and Banh Mi (baguette with pâté) from renowned local vendors. Visit a coffee shop for a taste of local brews, explore the lively Dong Xuan Night Market, and wrap up your evening at Beer Corner with a refreshing glass of Bia Hoi (fresh draft beer), immersing yourself in the city’s bustling nightlife.

Accommodation: Golden Silk Boutique Hotel or similar 

Meal: Dinner in food tour

Day 2: Hanoi – Mai Chau – Afternoon Trekking in Pu Luong Nature Reserve

Depart Hanoi in the morning for a scenic drive through limestone mountains and rice paddies to Mai Chau. Stop at Cun Mountain for sweeping views of Mai Chau’s lush valleys and stilt-house villages. Upon arrival in Poom Cong village, savor a delicious lunch at a local homestay before heading to Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Embark on a scenic 3-hour trek along a mix of dirt and gravel trails, passing verdant landscapes and small hamlets. Arrive at Hang Village, home to the Thai ethnic minority. After exploring the village, enjoy a hearty dinner and stay overnight in a traditional stilt house, immersing yourself in local culture.

Accommodation: Homestay (shared, basic)

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Trekking Hang Village – Eo Ken – Kho Muong Village

Wake to the sounds of roosters and village life as you prepare for a glorious day of trekking. Traverse through valleys, lush forests, and terraced fields, encountering picturesque rice paddies and charming hamlets of the Muong and Thai communities. A few steep climbs add a touch of challenge, but the spectacular descent into Kho Muong Valley is your ultimate reward. Kho Muong is a hidden gem, surrounded by dramatic scenery and far removed from the bustle of modern life. Stay in one of the eco-homestays built in partnership with the local villagers, offering a unique and sustainable experience.

Accommodation: Homestay (shared, basic)

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Kho Muong – Ninh Binh Biking – Galaxy Grotto

Begin the day with a peaceful walk from Kho Muong to meet your driver, bidding farewell to the charming village. Journey to Ninh Binh, famed for its breathtaking Trang An landscape of limestone peaks and tranquil valleys. Enjoy a hearty lunch at Tho Ha village in Nho Quan before hopping on a bike for a scenic ride (5–15 km) through quiet villages and picturesque countryside. The adventure continues at Nha Le boat pier, where a serene rowing boat takes you into the enchanting Galaxy Grotto, its shimmering stalactites creating a magical underground scene. End the day with a late-afternoon arrival at your Ninh Binh hotel to relax.

Accommodation: Ninh Binh Hidden Gem or similar

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5: Ninh Binh – Halong Bay & Bai Tu Long Bay

Embark on a scenic 4-hour drive to the breathtaking Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its 1,600 limestone islands and rich biodiversity. At Hon Gai Port, step aboard a charming wooden junk and toast your adventure with a welcome drink as you begin cruising through the unspoiled beauty of Bai Tu Long Bay. Savor a delicious lunch onboard while taking in the views before stopping at Cap La Island for an exhilarating kayaking excursion. As evening approaches, enjoy a sunset party on deck. Drift off to sleep surrounded by the bay’s tranquil beauty.

Accommodation: Swan Cruise (shared cruise, private cabin) or similar

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Bai Tu Long Bay – Thien Canh Son cave – Hanoi Departure

Awaken to the serene sounds of the bay and greet the morning with Tai Chi or a quiet moment with tea or coffee on deck. After breakfast, explore the fascinating Thien Canh Son Cave with its stunning stalactites and scenic views. Return to the boat to pack and savor a traditional Vietnamese lunch. Disembark at 11:00 and transfer back to Hanoi airport, arriving in time for your late afternoon or evening departure flight.

Accommodation: N/A

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

   More Information

• Varied Prices Based on Group Size
• There is surcharge for travelling on Lunar New Year, Christmas, regional New Year, Tet and other public holidays throughout the region please check with your consultant for date confirmation.
• Flight times and the daily order of sightseeing are subject to change.
• Transfer times are approximate and subject to local conditions at the time of travel.
• All cycling and trekking/walking distances displayed are approximate and subject to the guests’ ability and availability of the route, the guide will use his discretion to ensure safety and comfort for all participants.
• Singles Joining – If you are joining a trip as a solo traveler please add the single supplement to the trip price. If you are willing to share a room please let us know and we will do our best to find someone for you to share with, we will inform you before finalizing the final payment of the trip.
• Although it is our intention to operate the itinerary as detailed in the proposal, we cannot be held responsible for any last minute changes made as a result of climatic conditions, alterations to flight schedules or other operational factors.