North Vietnam Explorer

Welcome to Vietnam and the beginning of your adventure in the captivating city of Hanoi!

Upon arrival at the airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in. With the rest of the day at your leisure, take the opportunity to relax and explore Hanoi at your own pace.

Hanoi - Mai Chau. Today, leave bustling Hanoi and journey to the picturesque Mai Chau Valley, home to the White Thai ethnic minority group. Enjoy lunch at a traditional family-run guesthouse in the charming village of Mai Hich. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk through the back roads and rice fields of the valley, encountering the Thai people as they go about their daily lives. The rest of the day is yours to relax by the lodge's swimming pool or explore the countryside with available bike rentals.

Mai Chau - Hang Kia - Mai Chau. Venture to the H’mong ethnic lands in the mountainous province of Hoa Binh and the rocky plateau of Hang Kia. Meet the colourfully dressed locals and enjoy lunch in a traditional wooden home.

In the afternoon, embark on an easy-paced trek downhill to Mai Chau Valley, enjoying the picturesque scenery along the way. Alternatively, if you prefer not to trek, you can be transferred by road back to the lodge, where you can enjoy the afternoon at leisure.

Mai Chau - Hanoi. This morning we travel from Mai Chau back to Hanoi and immerse ourselves in the capital’s vibrant street life. We begin with a delicious street food lunch, sampling a variety of local specialties in an authentic setting. We then explore Hanoi’s hidden alleyways and backstreets, including a visit to the famous Train Street, before stopping to try a traditional egg coffee (at our own expense).

Continuing on, we visit the historic Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, and pass by the impressive Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Afterwards, we hop on motorbike taxis for an exciting ride through the city and along the shores of West Lake, offering a fascinating glimpse into daily local life. We pass through the districts of Vinh Phuc and Hoang Hoa Tham before ending at Buoi Market, a bustling local market popular with Hanoi residents.

Hanoi - Halong Bay. After breakfast travel to spectacular Halong Bay. Marvel at the karst island peaks rising from the emerald-coloured waters, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Board a traditional junk boat, blending oriental style with modern luxury, as you explore the bay on an overnight cruise. Take in panoramic views from the sundeck as the boat gently navigates the waters.

In the afternoon, visit Trinh Nu Cave, known for its stunning array of stalactites and stalagmites, and enjoy activities like kayaking and swimming. Back on board, witness a Vietnamese cooking demonstration on the sundeck before indulging in a seafood dinner.

Halong Bay - Hanoi. Wake up to witness a spectacular sunrise over the bay, casting a golden glow on the stunning rocky islands emerging from the crystal-clear waters. Cruise through the picturesque landscape before enjoying brunch on board. As the cruise concludes, disembark and travel back to Hanoi.

This afternoon, we visit the historic Hoa Lo Prison, offering a fascinating insight into Vietnam’s turbulent past. We then enjoy a one-hour cyclo ride through the Old Quarter, the bustling heart of Hanoi since King Ly Thai To established his palace here in the 11th century. Over time, skilled craftsmen gathered in the area, forming the renowned artisan guilds of the famous “36 Streets”. Return to the hotel and enjoy your final evening in Hanoi.

Today, your journey comes to an end. After breakfast and hotel check out, make your way to the airport for onward travel, or contact us to pre-book a departure transfer. Safe travels!