Meal: not included | Accommodation: in Hanoi

Arriving at Noi Bai airport in Hanoi, you’ll find our driver waiting to take you to your hotel in the city center. Time for relaxing after the journey. You’ll spend the night in Hanoi.

Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is a captivating destination that offers travelers a rich blend of history, culture, and vibrant urban life. Located in the northern part of the country, the city is known for its seamless blending of tradition with modernity, making it a must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience the heart and soul of Vietnam. Whether you're interested in history, cuisine, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, Hanoi has something for all.

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hanoi

8:00 AM - pick up from your hotel, our first stop unveils Vietnam's storied educational heritage as we venture to the venerable Temple of Literature. Here, you'll be entranced by the splendid architecture and serene gardens of this ancient university. Our journey through the tapestry of Vietnamese culture continues at the Museum of Ethnology, where you'll immerse yourself in captivating exhibits that illuminate the rich tapestry of the country's ethnic groups, showcasing their traditional customs and vibrant heritage.

Following a delightful lunch featuring authentic Hanoi cuisine, the afternoon beckons with a visit to the iconic Ho Chi Minh Complex. Gain profound insights into the life of Vietnam's revered leader as we explore the Presidential Palace, Stilt House, and the graceful One Pillar Pagoda. Finally, we'll plunge into the vibrant heart of Hanoi: the Old Quarter. Navigate its charming labyrinthine alleys, engaging with the bustling local life and indulging in a tantalizing street food-tasting adventure that will introduce your taste buds to the city's culinary treasures.

Meal: breakfast, lunch, dinner | Accommodation: Ecolodge in Bao Yen, Lao Cai province

7:30 AM with an early departure from Hanoi towards Bao Yen district, Lao Cai province. Upon arrival at a charming eco-lodge around noon, indulge in a delectable lunch that revitalizes your senses. The afternoon unveils a captivating trekking adventure, leading you through a symphony of experiences within the verdant embrace of the valley. Traverse serene trails that wind past terraced rice fields, and whispering cinnamon forests. Your exploration extends to the heart of the mountain villages, offering an authentic encounter with local communities who call this land home. Back to the lodge before sunset and relish a home dinner before retiring for the night, cocooned within the comfort of the lodge.

Meal: breakfast, lunch, dinner | Accommodation: Ecolodge in Hoang Su Phi, Ha Giang province

Begin the day with a leisurely morning at the lodge, allowing you to relish the tranquil ambiance before savoring a delightful breakfast. At around 9 a.m., 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. 

After a flavorful lunch, 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. 

Meal: breakfast, lunch, dinner | Accommodation: Farmstay in Bac Ha, Lao Cai province

Today our journey takes you to Bac Ha district, the homeland of the Flower H’Mong group in Lao Cai. Your journey unfolds along a spectacular drive that traces the meandering path of the Chay River, offering glimpses of nature's grandeur. As you arrive at the farm stay around noon, and indulge in a delightful lunch that celebrates local flavors. 

The afternoon beckons with an exhilarating trek 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.

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Sapa

After 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. 

Meal: breakfast | Accommodation: not included

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. 

Meal: breakfast, lunch, dinner | Accommodation: in Tam Coc

8:30 - You will be picked up from your hotel in Hanoi by our guide and driver and head to Green Ninh Binh (the drive should take us less than 2 hours on the highway). 

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 in Tam Coc

If you prefer not to cycle, please inform your Handspan travel consultant. A very interesting and more relaxed tour program can be customized to meet your preferences.

Meal: breakfast, lunch, dinner | Accommodation: Onboard the Treasure Junk 

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 in our cozy air-conditioned cabin with en-suite bathroom.

Meal: brunch | Accommodation: not included

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. End of our service.