Hanoi, Mai Chau, Ninh Binh & Halong Bay

On arrival, we are met at the airport and transferred to our hotel by private vehicle - no guide is included for this transfer. The driver will be waiting outside the arrivals hall. If needed, an emergency WhatsApp number is provided, and free airport Wi-Fi is available.

Hotel rooms are available from 14:00. If arriving earlier, an early check-in can be arranged in advance at an additional cost.

The rest of the day is free to relax or begin exploring at your own pace. You may wish to wander through the narrow streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, known for its historic trading lanes and vibrant atmosphere.

Today is free to explore Hanoi independently. You can discover its tree-lined boulevards, lakes, and historic sites, or simply enjoy the city’s café culture. Optional guided experiences and walking tours can be arranged if you prefer a more structured visit.

Hanoi - Mai Chau. At 08:00, we depart Hanoi and travel west towards Mai Chau. The journey takes us through peri-urban landscapes before opening into rural countryside. After crossing a mountain pass, we enjoy sweeping views over the Mai Chau valley - home to the White Thai ethnic community, known for their stilt houses and traditional weaving.

We arrive around midday. Rooms are available from 14:00.

The rest of the day is at leisure. You can explore the surrounding villages on foot or by bicycle, with quiet lanes connecting nearby hamlets and rice fields.

A full day at leisure to explore the valley.

In the morning, you may wish to visit the local market, where residents from surrounding villages gather to trade fresh produce and handmade goods.

Alternatively, you can join an optional half-day Jeep experience.

Optional activity - Mai Chau Highlands Explorer by Vintage JeepThis private 4-hour tour takes you into the backcountry with a local English-speaking guide. We travel along scenic routes, visit local communities, and learn about traditional crafts before returning to Mai Chau town for a tasting of regional specialities.

Mai Chau - Ninh Binh. At 09:00, we depart for Ninh Binh, located in the Red River Delta region.

We arrive around midday in Tam Coc. Rooms are available from 14:00.

The area is compact and easy to explore. You can walk, cycle, or rent a scooter locally. Key sites nearby include Thai Vi Temple, the Tam Coc boat pier, and Bich Dong Pagoda - a hillside pagoda complex partly built into the rock.

A full day at leisure to explore Ninh Binh, often referred to as “Halong Bay on land” for its limestone karst scenery rising from rice paddies.

You can arrange local excursions through nearby agencies or enjoy independent exploration.

Optional activity - Tam Coc Wonders Plus by e-bikeThis private 4-hour experience combines gentle cycling with cultural encounters. We visit Hang Mua - climbing around 500 steps for panoramic views - as well as Bich Dong Pagoda, Coi Khe village, and Voi Temple for a traditional tea ceremony. The experience concludes with a home-cooked meal and a short cooking session with a local family.

Ninh Binh - Halong Bay. At 08:00, we depart for Halong Bay.

Around 12:30, we board a traditional junk boat and begin our cruise through the bay’s limestone karsts - a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic seascape.

Lunch is served on board as we cruise. During the afternoon, we take part in one excursion - this may include visiting a cave, kayaking, or a sampan ride, depending on conditions and cruise routing. Some itineraries also include time on a secluded beach.

Later, we join a cooking demonstration on board and enjoy sunset over the bay before dinner.

Please note: Cruise routes vary between Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay, and Lan Ha Bay. While scenery and activities are similar, Lan Ha and Halong routes tend to be slightly busier.

Early risers can join a Tai Chi session on deck at sunrise, or enjoy a slower start to the day.

After a light breakfast, we explore another area of the bay before returning to the harbour.

At around 09:30, we check out of our cabin. Brunch is served as we cruise back.

We disembark at approximately 10:00 and transfer directly to Hanoi Airport for our onward flight.