North Vietnam Snapshot - 7 Days

Welcome to Vietnam! Touch down in Hanoi where a friendly face will greet you at the airport and whisk you off to your city centre accommodation. As night falls, you'll meet your group for a stroll through the lively streets before diving into a feast of local flavours on a mouthwatering Hanoi food tour. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds!

As our Snapshot tours are modular, please note that you will be joining guests who have been travelling on our Vietnam Classic Tour together for the past week.

Today, you're trading city buzz for bay views. You'll hop aboard a traditional boat and sail into the famous Ha Long Bay. Your Ha Long Bay cruise takes you north to the less crowded Bai Tu Long area, where untouched wonders await. Grab a paddle and kayak around the stunning scenery of Cap La Island. Fancy a dip? There's an optional visit to a secret beach on Cong Do Island. As the day winds down, you'll toast to new friends with sunset drinks and a delicious dinner on deck.

Rise and shine with a peaceful Tai Chi session on the sundeck, or simply soak in the morning views of the bay. Next up, you're set to explore Thien Canh Son, the most famous cave system in Ha Long Bay, known for its stunning stalactites and stalagmites. On the journey back, you'll have the unique opportunity to try your hand at Vietnamese fruit carving and spring roll making, learning about the intricate techniques and culinary traditions of the region.

Once back in Hanoi, you can stretch your legs on an optional walking tour, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture and history of the city. Tonight we have a night of celebration with some of your travel crew who finish up their Vietnam Classic tour tomorrow.

Your adventure continues today as you board a comfortable limousine at 7 AM for a scenic 6-hour journey to Sa Pa. Upon arrival, you'll meet your local guide and head straight to Ta Van Trek Point. Get ready to explore the lush rice fields of Muong Hoa Valley, where Ta Van village offers a glimpse into the authentic rural life of local tribes. You'll experience the slow pace, savour delicious food, and interact with curious, friendly locals. As night falls, you'll enjoy dinner with your local host and spend the night in an authentic homestay, soaking in the atmosphere of Sa Pa.

Wake up to a delicious breakfast at your homestay. Around 9:00 AM, you'll set out on a trek to Giang Ta Chai Village. Hike uphill to discover a beautiful waterfall and soak in breathtaking views. Giang Ta Chai is home to the Red Dao people, known for their distinctive black attire with embroidered details. You'll enjoy lunch in the village before a steep descent. Back in Sa Pa town, you'll check into tonights accommodation. The afternoon is yours to explore Sa Pa Town and browse the local market, immersing yourself in the local culture.

Please note, that we advise guests to wear hiking shoes rather than trainers on this walk.

Today's your final day in Sa Pa. After breakfast at your hotel, you'll head out with your guide and car to an altitude of 1700m to visit the mesmerizing Silver Waterfall, where the Muong Hoa stream begins. Snap some stunning photos before continuing your journey through a wild forest road for about 3 km, reaching a red dirt path that winds through lush green bamboo forests. At the end of the bamboo forest, you'll follow the stream to the breathtaking Love Waterfall. The waterfall resembles a hat from a distance, creating a picturesque scene in the vast space of mountains and forests. After soaking in the beauty of Love Waterfall, you'll return to your car and head back to Sa Pa town to enjoy your final lunch in town. We've arranged a late check-out of your accommodation today, so after lunch, you'll have time to return to your room, freshen up and get your belongings together before your overnight train.

As the evening approaches, transfer to Lao Cai Train Station for your overnight journey to Hanoi. Grab some snacks for the night train and enjoy sharing a cabin with your travel mates.

Your Vietnamese adventure comes to an end as you arrive in Hanoi around 5-5:30 AM. As you say goodbye at Hanoi Train Station, you'll be filled with unforgettable memories of your journey. If you're not ready for the adventure to end, don't hesitate to ask about extending your stay – we're always happy to help you explore more of Vietnam! Tam biet va Hen Gap Lai! (Goodbye and See You Again!)