13 Days Northern Vietnam Adventure

Arrive in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam.

Transfer to the hotel for check-in.

Shopping at traditional shop.

Evening at leisure.

• Optional: Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dinner and a water puppet show.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Begin your day with a scenic drive to Mai Chau, a serene valley nestled in the mountains and home to the warm and welcoming Thai ethnic minority community. Upon arrival, check in to your unique accommodation—a traditional stilt house homestay or an eco-lodge surrounded by lush landscapes, providing an authentic glimpse into local life.

Spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding villages and scenic rice fields on a leisurely bike    ride. Pedal through winding paths lined with green paddy fields and traditional stilt houses and immerse yourself in the tranquil pace of village life while meeting friendly locals along the way.

In the evening, enjoy a delicious traditional Thai dinner featuring local specialties. After dinner, experience a lively cultural performance with music and dance, showcasing the vibrant customs and heritage of the Thai people.

Overnight in Mai Chau.

Start your day with a scenic drive to the Moc Chau Plateau, renowned for its vast tea plantations, lush green landscapes, and thriving dairy farms. The plateau offers a peaceful escape, surrounded by rolling hills and vibrant fields. Upon arrival, visit a local tea farm, where you’ll gain insight into the intricate process of tea production. Learn about the cultivation, harvesting, and processing of tea, and enjoy a tasting of fresh, aromatic tea directly from the farm.

Afterward, continue your drive to Son La, making stops at scenic viewpoints along the way to take in the breathtaking landscapes. The journey offers stunning views of terraced fields, rivers, and mountains, perfect for photos and moments of reflection.

Overnight in Son La.

Start your day with a visit to Son La Prison, a somber yet significant historical site from the French colonial era. Built by the French in 1908, this prison once held Vietnamese revolutionaries in harsh conditions as they fought for independence. Today, it stands as a museum, offering insight into the resilience and bravery of those who endured imprisonment for the cause of freedom.

Afterward, drive to Dien Bien Phu, a landmark of Vietnamese history known for the decisive 1954 battle that ended French colonial rule in Vietnam. On arrival, we visit:

• Dien Bien Phu Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of military artifacts, photographs, and documents that recount the strategic and cultural impact of the battle.
• A1 Hill, one of the most crucial battlegrounds in the fight for Dien Bien Phu. From the top, you can appreciate both the strategic importance of this site and its panoramic views of the valley below.
• Victory Monument, a towering symbol commemorating the courage and determination that led to Vietnam’s independence.

Overnight in Dien Bien Phu.

Begin your day with a morning departure to Lai Chau, a remote and less-traveled region that offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s untouched natural beauty and cultural diversity. As you travel through winding mountain roads, take in the stunning landscapes of towering mountains, deep valleys, and winding rivers—a scenic route that showcases the rugged charm of northern Vietnam.

Along the way, stop to visit traditional villages inhabited by local ethnic minority groups, including the Black Thai and Red H’mong communities.

• Learn about their unique customs, traditional clothing, and ways of life that have been preserved over generations. The warm hospitality of the villagers offers an authentic experience of the diverse cultures within Vietnam.

In the late afternoon, continue your journey to Sapa, where you’ll check in and relax after a day of travel and exploration.

Overnight in Sapa.

After breakfast prepare for a full-day trekking adventure through Sapa’s stunning landscapes. Set out on foot and wind through picturesque rice terraces and lush valleys, experiencing the serene beauty of northern Vietnam’s countryside up close.

Your trek will take you to Lao Chai Village, where the Black H’mong ethnic group resides. Here, you’ll learn about their daily life, traditional clothing, and intricate handicrafts. Continue your journey to Ta Van Village, home to the Dzay ethnic group, known for their unique customs and welcoming spirit.

Midway through the trek, enjoy a traditional lunch with a local family, where you’ll have the chance to taste authentic regional dishes and experience local hospitality firsthand.

In the late afternoon, return to Sapa town for a well-earned rest after an unforgettable day immersed in the cultural and natural beauty of the region.

Overnight in Sapa.

Start the day with breakfast and check out of your accommodation, then depart for Bac Ha, a region known for its vibrant markets and diverse ethnic communities. As you journey through the winding roads, soak in the breathtaking landscapes of towering mountains, lush valleys, and meandering rivers—a beautiful showcase of northern Vietnam’s natural charm.

Upon arrival in Bac Ha, visit nearby villages inhabited by local ethnic minority groups, particularly the H’mong community. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to witness their colorful traditional clothing, unique customs, and time-honored ways of life. Engage with the villagers to learn about their daily routines, farming techniques, and artisan crafts, gaining a deeper understanding of the cultural richness that defines this region.

Overnight in Bac Ha.

Begin your day with an early departure for Ha Giang, one of Vietnam’s most breathtakingly rugged provinces, celebrated for its towering mountains, dramatic landscapes, and rich ethnic diversity. We will visit:

• Dong Van Karst Plateau, a UNESCO Global Geopark known for its striking limestone formations, deep valleys, and ancient geological features that tell a story millions of years in the making.
• local marketsbustling with activity, where members of various ethnic minority groups gather to trade goods, dressed in vibrant traditional attire. This is a wonderful chance to witness daily life, interact with locals, and perhaps pick up unique, handcrafted souvenirs.

• Ethnic minority villages, where you can gain insight into the traditional customs, crafts, and architecture unique to each community. The hospitality and cultural richness of these villages offer an unforgettable experience and a true highlight of your journey through northern Vietnam.

Overnight in Ha Giang.

Start your day by visiting the Dong Van Old Quarter, a charming area with ancient stone houses and narrow lanes, where the unique cultural heritage of the H’mong people is still very much alive. Take a walk through this historical quarter to explore traditional architecture, local markets, and the peaceful atmosphere of this highland town.

Next, head to the H’mong King’s Palace, an impressive architectural relic that dates back to the early 20th century. Built for the local H’mong king, Vuong Chinh Duc, this mansion showcases distinctive stone and wood craftsmanship and offers a glimpse into the history and influence of the H’mong community in this region.

Afterward, continue your journey through dramatic mountain scenery to reach Meo Vac, a small, picturesque town nestled amidst breathtaking limestone peaks and lush valleys. The surrounding landscapes of Meo Vac are some of the most striking in Vietnam, providing endless opportunities for stunning photos and moments of reflection.

Overnight in Meo Vac.

Depart in the morning for Cao Bang, a province renowned for its spectacular natural beauty and rich history. This remote region is filled with lush landscapes, towering mountains, and serene rivers, making it an unforgettable destination for nature lovers and explorers alike. Upon arrival, visit the breathtaking

• Ban Gioc Waterfall, one of Vietnam’s largest and most impressive waterfalls, located right on the border with China. With its multi-tiered cascades and emerald green pools, Ban Gioc is a stunning sight, where you can relax and take in the powerful, serene beauty of this natural wonder.
• Nguom Ngao Cave, an expansive limestone cave with remarkable stalactites and stalagmites formed over thousands of years. The cave’s winding passages and illuminated rock formations create an otherworldly experience, giving you a glimpse into the region’s ancient geological history.

Overnight in Cao Bang.

Depart for Ba Be National Park, a pristine natural area known for its rich biodiversity and home to Ba Be Lake, Vietnam’s largest natural freshwater lake. This scenic journey through northern Vietnam’s rugged landscapes will take you to one of the country’s most tranquil and ecologically diverse destinations.

Upon arrival, set out on a boat ride across Ba Be Lake, where you’ll be surrounded by lush forests, towering limestone cliffs, and serene waters. As you glide along the lake, stop to explore Puong Cave, a large limestone cave with stunning stalactites and home to thousands of bats. Continue to Dau Dang Waterfall, where cascading waters flow dramatically over large rocks, creating a picturesque and peaceful spot ideal for photos.

In the afternoon, visit nearby Tay ethnic minority villages nestled within the park. Here, you’ll have the chance to learn about the Tay people’s traditional lifestyle, architecture, and unique culture. Gain insights into their farming practices, handicrafts, and the close connection they maintain with nature.

Overnight in Ba Be.

Spend a leisurely morning exploring the serene beauty of Ba Be National Park. Take this time to stroll along forest trails, enjoy the peaceful lake views, or revisit a favorite spot from the previous day’s excursion. The tranquil atmosphere of Ba Be offers a perfect moment for relaxation and reflection amidst lush natural surroundings.

Afterward, embark on your journey back to Hanoi, taking in the scenic landscapes along the way. Arrive in the capital by late afternoon, where you’ll have two options: either transfer directly to the airport for your departure flight or check in at a local hotel if you plan to extend your stay in Hanoi and explore more of this vibrant city.

Overnight in Hanoi.

After breakfast, free time until transfer to Noi Bai International Airport and flight home.