Northern Vietnam Highlights - 6 Days

Your Vietnamese adventure starts with your arrival in Hanoi. A private driver will welcome you at the airport, holding a signboard with your name for easy recognition. They will then take you to your accommodation, conveniently located in the heart of the city, just steps away from the captivating Old Quarter. Here, you can choose to explore the vibrant streets at your own pace or unwind at the hotel after your flight.

Begin your day with a 7:00 AM collection from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The drive to Pu Luong will take approximately four hours, traffic permitting. Along the way, enjoy the tranquil views of rural villages and everyday countryside life. At around 10:00 AM, we will pause for a brief 15-minute rest before resuming our journey, arriving at Pu Luong Nature Reserve by noon.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, after which you’ll check in to your accommodation (standard check-in time is 2:00 PM) and enjoy some time at leisure.

This afternoon, we will embark on a relaxed walk starting from Ban Cong village. Crossing a suspension bridge, we reach one of Pu Luong’s most picturesque areas, featuring the largest stream moving through rice fields and villages. Here, observe the remarkable giant water wheels, crafted by local ethnic communities. The walk spans approximately 2.5 km and is considered easy (difficulty level 2/5).

Next, we head to Chieu Lau dam for a bamboo rafting experience. Paddle gently upstream alongside locals, taking in the serene river landscape. Upon reaching the opposite riverbank, a 2 km walk through rice fields and village paths will complete the circuit. We will meet your driver on the main road for a return to the hotel by 5:00 PM.

The evening is yours to explore. You may choose to participate in an optional cooking class, followed by a delightful dinner at 7:00 PM. Conclude your day by relaxing at your accommodation as your adventure in Pu Luong begins.

After breakfast, we set off to explore the natural beauty and cultural tapestry of Pu Luong. Our journey starts with a leisurely walk down through the scenic valley towards Don Village, renowned as the region’s vibrant heart. Strolling through expansive terraced fields, we enjoy ever-changing and increasingly stunning views.

As we proceed, we arrive at Uoi Hamlet, nestled peacefully at the base of a majestic mountain. The picturesque landscape, as seen from above, captures the quintessential charm of Pu Luong's countryside, offering ample photography opportunities.

Our walk continues to Lan Village, affectionately known as the “Kingdom of the Thai People in Pu Luong.” Nearly 100 Thai families reside here, providing a window into authentic rural life. You may choose to explore this area on foot or by bicycle (optional), meandering past cool streams, lush fields, and duck-dotted ponds. Experience the tranquil rhythm of life and learn about the traditional art of brocade weaving as the locals engage in their daily activities.

After visiting, we return for check-out by 11:30, followed by a final lunch in Pu Luong. Early in the afternoon, we depart by bus for Hanoi, anticipating arrival at your hotel by 6:30 PM - thus concluding your memorable journey in Pu Luong.

In the morning, we check out of the hotel and are collected by the Cruise team. Our journey takes us along the picturesque route to Halong Bay, passing through the lush Red River Delta with its expansive emerald rice fields.

Upon reaching the pier, we board the cruise ship to enjoy stunning views of the bay's limestone formations and karst grottoes. A delectable seafood lunch is served as we relax on the sundeck and take in the sights of the bay.

The cruise will pause at a secluded spot, where we'll have the opportunity to kayak or swim, giving us a closer look at the remarkable karst formations. As evening approaches, we return to the boat for an early dinner, after which you can choose to join optional on-board activities or simply unwind at your leisure.

We overnight on the cruise. Please note, in the event of adverse weather preventing the boat from departing or anchoring overnight, the Ha Long Bay tour may be cancelled without prior notice. Alternative arrangements or refunds will be considered based on the situation.

Start your day with an early rise to witness a breathtaking sunrise. Enjoy breakfast in the dining room, then rejuvenate your mind and body with a Tai Chi class on the sun deck.

Afterwards, we will visit a stunning limestone cave, adorned with fascinating stalagmites and stalactites. Following our exploration, we'll return to the boat to check out and savour a leisurely brunch as we sail back to the harbour.

You will then be transferred back to Hanoi, where you will spend the night.

Enjoy a nutritious breakfast on your final day in Vietnam. After checking out of the hotel, why not explore the local markets, perfect for picking up souvenirs for your loved ones?

Later, we’ll ensure a smooth transfer to the airport with your private driver, ready to catch your flight home.