Northern Vietnam Trail

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi – Handicraft Villages & Train Street

Begin your Vietnamese journey with a warm welcome in Hanoi, the capital city that blends centuries-old charm with vibrant street life. After hotel pick-up, meet your friendly tour guide and head to your first stop: the incense-making village. Wander through aromatic alleys lined with artisans carefully crafting fragrant incense sticks, learning the age-old techniques passed down through generations. Capture memorable photos against this fragrant, culturally rich backdrop.

Next, a short drive takes you to the traditional conical hat-making village, where craftsmanship meets creativity. Here, you don’t just observe—you get hands-on experience painting and shaping your own conical hat, creating a personal keepsake from your journey.

For lunch, enjoy a home-cooked meal at a local artisan’s house or a riverside restaurant, savoring authentic Vietnamese flavors.

Continue to the lacquer art village, a treasure trove of delicate artistry. Witness the meticulous process of lacquer production and even try your hand at painting your own piece. Immerse yourself in the village’s creative energy, and take home memories and souvenirs crafted with care.

Finally, return to Hanoi city center. For those interested, the optional drop-off includes a stroll along the iconic Train Street, a narrow track lined with cafés, where trains rumble past just inches from the sidewalks.

Day 2: Hanoi – Bai Dinh Pagoda – Trang An – Mua Cave – Hanoi

Pick-up: 7:20 – 8:00 AM | Limousine Shuttle Bus

Embark on a day of spiritual and natural wonders as you journey north. Your first destination is Bai Dinh Pagoda, Vietnam’s largest Buddhist complex. Marvel at towering bronze Buddhas, intricate temple architecture, and the serene Arhat corridor—Asia’s longest. Feel the peaceful aura as you stroll through courtyards embraced by limestone mountains.

Savor a Vietnamese buffet lunch with a wide variety of local and vegetarian specialties.

Afterward, cruise the winding rivers of Trang An in a traditional sampan. Glide under mystical limestone arches and through lush caves, a journey that has earned the area the nickname “Ha Long Bay on land” and UNESCO World Heritage recognition.

Next, hike up Mua Cave Peak for breathtaking panoramic views over Tam Coc valley and surrounding limestone mountains. Capture photographs of one of Northern Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes before returning to Hanoi, arriving in the Old Quarter between 7:00 – 7:30 PM.

Day 3: Hanoi – Sapa (by bus)

Enjoy a scenic bus ride north to Sapa, the mountainous town famous for its terraced rice fields and vibrant ethnic culture. Relax and take in the ever-changing landscape as you ascend into the Hoàng Liên Sơn range.

Day 4: Sapa – Mountain View & Ethnic Villages Trek

Start your day at 9:30 AM with hotel pick-up. Begin the trek with a visit to Ham Rong Mountain, passing through peach, plum, and corn orchards as you ascend to 1,850 meters. Admire sweeping views of Sapa town, the Hoàng Liên Sơn range, and distant Fansipan Peak—the highest in Indochina.

Follow a scenic trail to Hmong villages: Sa Seng, Hang Da, and Hau Chu Ngai. Meet local families, learn about daily life, and enjoy cultural storytelling. Lunch is served at a village restaurant, featuring traditional dishes that provide an authentic taste of Sapa.

Return to your accommodation after a day filled with hiking, cultural immersion, and unforgettable vistas.

Day 5: Sapa – Alpine Coaster & Panoramic Views

After pick-up, enjoy a scenic drive to Bản Mòng, a hidden gem offering panoramic mountain views. Experience the thrill of the Alpine Coaster, controlling your own speed as you glide down a winding mountain track while soaking in the valley below.

Next, visit Best View Sapa for postcard-worthy scenery. Relax with a complimentary beverage as you take in the sweeping vistas of the Hoàng Liên Sơn range. Return to Sapa in the afternoon, and spend the evening exploring the local market, a bustling hub of color, crafts, and traditional delicacies.

Day 6: Fansipan Peak & Overnight Train to Hanoi

Rise early to conquer Fansipan Peak, known as the “Roof of Indochina.” Take the cable car or trek to the summit for breathtaking 360° views of the surrounding mountains. In the evening, board your overnight train back to Hanoi, resting in comfort as you journey south.

Day 7: Hanoi – Ban Gioc Waterfall & Angel Mountain (2-Day Trip)

Arrive in Hanoi, drop off your luggage at the hotel, and pack a small bag for the adventure ahead. Depart in a private vehicle for the scenic drive north toward Cao Bang. Pass lush rice terraces and dramatic mountain peaks en route to Angel Mountain and local villages perfect for photography.

Lunch is served at an outdoor homestay restaurant, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Continue to your homestay, unwind, enjoy a locally cooked dinner, and soak in the tranquil northern landscapes.

Day 8: Tiger Cave – Ban Gioc Waterfall – Truc Lam Pagoda

After breakfast, explore the mysterious Tiger Cave, a natural limestone marvel with fascinating rock formations. Then, ascend a hillside temple for panoramic views before arriving at the magnificent Ban Gioc Waterfall. Opt to take a raft into the cascading spray for an unforgettable experience.

Conclude the day with a visit to Truc Lam Pagoda, a peaceful retreat overlooking the waterfalls. Return to Cao Bang city for a local meal before heading back to Hanoi, filled with memories of Northern Vietnam’s hidden treasures.

Day 9: Hanoi – Ha Long Bay – Lan Ha Bay Cruise

Transfer from Hanoi to Tuan Chau Wharf and board your cruise ship at noon. Sip a refreshing welcome drink and enjoy a safety briefing before embarking on your Ha Long Bay adventure.

Lunch on board is accompanied by scenic views of towering limestone islands and sparkling waters. Explore Dark and Bright Cave by kayak or bamboo boat, swim in secluded lagoons, or visit Ba Trai Dao Lagoon in Lan Ha Bay.

At sunset, relax on deck or join a cooking class before a sumptuous dinner. Evening activities include squid fishing, movie time, or live music aboard the cruise.

Day 10: Lan Ha Bay – Morning Tai Chi – Return to Hanoi

Begin with an invigorating Tai Chi session on the deck as the sun rises. After a light breakfast, enjoy optional kayaking in Ao Ech or a visit to Quan Y Cave on Cat Ba Island.

Return to the cruise for brunch before disembarking at Tuan Chau Wharf. Transfer back to Hanoi, concluding your Ha Long Bay experience.

Day 11: Hanoi – Free Day for Shopping & Sightseeing

Spend the day at your leisure exploring Hanoi’s vibrant streets, markets, and historical landmarks. Discover hidden cafés, purchase souvenirs, or take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake.

Day 12: Departure from Hanoi

Your Northern Vietnam adventure concludes with hotel transfer to the airport. Depart Hanoi with a heart full of unforgettable memories, stunning photographs, and a deep appreciation for Vietnam’s cultural richness and natural beauty.

Hotel Details: 3/4/5- Star with a View Room or similar

• Hanoi: Lavender Central or similar
• Sa Pa: Sapa Jade Hill Resort & Spa or similar
• Cao Bang: Homestay
• La Han Bay & Ha Long Bay cruise with balcony or similar

Tourist: Evisa

• Passport Photo Copy with front and back
• Photo with white background, 35mm*45mm, 80% face coverage, and taken in the last 3 months
• Pancard

Processing Time: 

• Visa type: Single entry
• Processing time: 5-7 working days
• Stay duration: 30 days per entry
• Visa validity: Depends on the embassy

NOTE: Visa fees are subject to change. The package cost is based on a minimum of 2 adults travelling together. Rates vary at the time of booking; the given rate is an estimate.