Today’s full day discovery of Hanoi starts at 08:30.  Begin with a visit to the sixth-century Tran Quoc Buddhist Pagoda, on the shores of serene West Lake.

Next, take a short drive to visit the famed Temple of Literature. In 1076 Quoc Tu Giam - Vietnam's first university, also referred to as Van Mieu, was established within a temple to educate Vietnam's royalty, mandarins and members of the elite, for an incredible 800-years. 

Following, chose a museum option (to be discussed on the actual day of the tour): 

Option 1: Vietnam Women’s Museum.  Highly acclaimed, the museum displays highlights of Vietnam’s vast cultural diversity and the significant role women play in Vietnamese society. 

Option 2: The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (closed Mondays) is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the rich cultural diversity of Vietnam. The museum houses a vast collection of interactive exhibits that showcase the 54 ethnic groups of Vietnam.

Continuing on foot past the Mausoleum (viewed from outside) to learn about the life and legacy of the nation’s founder. Continue to the ‘house on stilts’ where ‘Bac Ho’ resided from 1958 to 1969 (closed on Monday and Friday). Stroll around the tranquil grounds before completing the circuit at the One Pillar pagoda; built in 1049, the symbol of Hanoi is a unique representation of the city.

Mid-late afternoon, continue the exploration with a stroll through Hanoi’s Old Quarter. A maze of alleyways and hidden treasures, learn about local life in the ‘36-guilds’ as you weave through the frenetic streets on foot.

Overnight        : Hanoi

Meal               : Breakfast

Hanoi – Hoang Su Phi : 6 hour drive

After breakfsat, we set forth on an inspiring journey to Thong Nguyen, a place where timeless traditions intertwine with breathtaking landscapes. As you arrive, immerse yourself in the heart of Hoang Su Phi, a hidden gem known for its captivating terraced rice fields and cultural tapestry.

The afternoon beckons you to partake in an exhilarating trek that unveils the secrets of local villages. Traverse winding paths lead to authentic encounters, allowing you to forge connections with the vibrant communities that thrive amidst this natural wonderland.

In the evening, enjoy a sumptuous dinner, followed by a restful overnight stay at the lodge.

Overnight        : Hoang Su Phi  

Meal               : Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Hoang Su Phi – Bac Ha: 3 hour drive

Your hike is going to start at 9 am after a delicious breakfast. At the beginning of the walk, you will have the chance to pass through a village of Yao people. These lovely people wear long tunics and have settled their houses on pillars on the mountainside. You will also have the opportunity to walk through breathtaking rice fields in terraces and bamboo forests.

During the hike, the group will take a break at a Red Dao House. The family there is eager to welcome you with a cup of local tea. You can either rest while waiting for lunch or join your local guide in preparing the meal.

The afternoon beckons with an exhilarating drive through the picturesque Lung Phinh Valley, where every step unveils breathtaking panoramas and an immersion into the rhythms of rural life. Bac Ha's legacy and the allure of the Flower H'Mong await, promising an experience that resonates with the heart and soul. Dinner and overnight at a farm stay in Lao Cai.

Overnight        : Bac Ha

Meal               : Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Bac Ha – Sapa: 2 hour 30 min drive

fter breakfast, a short drive takes us to the town center with a visit to Bac Ha market. Depending on the day, you might chance upon a lively weekly market, immersing you in the colorful traditions of the local people. Your journey continues with a scenic boat trip along the tranquil Chay River, a voyage that whispers of natural serenity. A mouthwatering lunch at the welcoming house on the stilts of a Tay family offers a taste of their warm hospitality and traditional flavors.

In the afternoon a comfortable transfer brings you to the iconic town of Sapa. Upon checking in to your hotel, the town becomes your canvas for exploration, inviting you to uncover its charming center at your own pace.

Overnight        : Sapa  

Meal               : Breakfast

Set off from the Sapa town center, we trace the path along the mesmerizing Golden Stream valley that winds through the rugged terrain. Along the way, be prepared to be mesmerized by breathtaking vistas that showcase the intricate tapestry of rice terraces, vibrant gardens, and the majestic Fan Si Pan mountain range looming in the distance. Immerse yourself in the local culture as we visit the welcoming homes of the Black H'Mong and Dzay people in Lao Chai and Ta Van villages, absorbing their way of life and traditions. A home-cooked lunch fuels us for an afternoon stroll, leading us to the main road where our driver awaits, ready to take us back to Sapa town.

The remainder is free at leisure.

Overnight        : Sapa  

Meal               : Breakfast

Sapa – Hanoi: 5 hour drive

A leisurely day that begins with a tranquil morning at your own pace in the captivating enclave of Sapa town. Whether you choose to explore the town's charming streets, indulge in local flavors, or simply soak in the breathtaking views, the morning is yours to savor.

Early afternoon, embark on a private transfer that winds its way back to the bustling rhythm of Hanoi. Anticipate a picturesque journey that paints the landscapes with fleeting hues of sunset. Your estimated arrival in Hanoi is around 7:00 PM.

Overnight        : Hanoi  

Meal               : Breakfast

Hanoi – Ninh  Binh: 2 hour drive

You will be picked up from your hotel in Hanoi by our guide and driver and head to Green Ninh Binh.

Upon arrival, you will visit Hoa Lu, the ancient imperial capital of Vietnam back in the 10th century. Your guide will take you through the history of Vietnam a thousand years back by visiting some temples dedicated to the Kings. After that, you will drive through the scenic landscape and countryside villages to Tam Coc village and enjoy a home lunch at one of the village’s houses.

In the afternoon, you will hop on your bicycles for an easy-paced ride to a local pier to board a rowing sampan for about one hour, sailing through the less-traveled canals of the region, whose beauty has nothing to envy the busiest ones. You will sail through caves and along the Thung Nham wetland, a part of the spectacular natural site of the Trang An landscape complex. After the boat trip, let's continue the cycling route through the scenic rural landscapes in Tam Coc to get a closer look at the villages’ rural life.

As the sun goes down, we’ll head to Hang Mua (Mua Cave) for an adventurous 500 steps to a spectacular view. Once on top, enjoy the spectacular view of the rivers, rice fields, and villages in the surrounding area.

Overnight        : Ninh Binh

Meal               : Breakfast

Ninh Binh – Halong : 3 hour drive

We depart early for an approximate 4-hour drive to Halong City through the Red River Delta region. Upon arrival, we will give farewell to our guide and driver, since they will bring us to join our little group cruise.

Upon arrival, we will board the Treasure Junk and start to cruise towards the boundaries of Halong Bay while a delicious lunch with fresh seafood is served (vegetarian and kid’s menus available).

Make yourself at ease and just relax after lunch. Hundreds of emerging limestone rock formations will parade all around us for about 2 hours before our first stop. We will then reach the perfect spot, where the waters of Halong and Bai Tu Long hit and wave together. Let's get ready for a closer look at the water and explore the bay in depth paddling on our own kayak.

We’ll get back on the Treasure before sunset when we will be able to enjoy a cocktail on board while we will sail to the anchorage area where we will spend the night offshore. The dinner will be served either inside or outside on the deck, depending on weather conditions.

Overnight        : on board   

Meal               : Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Halong – Hanoi : 3 hour drive

Awaken to the serene misty bay at 6:30 a.m., where coffee, tea, and cakes await. You can choose to energize your body, mind, and soul with a 30-minute Tai Chi session led by our onboard master or simply bask in the sun with coffee. Later, embark on a bamboo boat to explore a secluded floating village, meandering through floating houses and rowing boats serving various purposes. Returning to the Treasure before 9:00 a.m., we'll cruise back to the pier, followed by a brunch at 9:30.

As we bid farewell to the majestic rocks guarding the kingdom, we'll head to the pier and get a private transfer to Hanoi airport, in good time to board your departure flight

Meal               : Breakfast | Brunch