Day 02 - Hanoi > Halong Bay Cruise (B)

• Complimentary breakfast at your hotel.

Morning - (08:30am > 12:00pm)

• Transfer IC - private chartered vehicle - from (Hanoi) to (Halong Bay) - 150km / 93mi / 2hr15'

• Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. Known for its emerald-green waters and over 1,600 towering limestone islands and islets, Halong Bay offers a stunning backdrop for exploration and relaxation. On this tour, you’ll embark on a scenic cruise through this majestic seascape, marveling at the sheer beauty of the karst formations as they rise dramatically from the water. Explore hidden caves, serene lagoons, and isolated fishing villages, and perhaps even take a kayak ride to get up close to the bay's awe-inspiring natural beauty. Whether you're relaxing on a luxury cruise, enjoying a seafood feast, or taking in the panoramic views from a mountain top, Halong Bay promises a serene and unforgettable adventure that will leave you in awe of nature's splendor. 

• Optional activity:  2 Days / 1 Night Halong Bay Cruise 

• Immerse yourself in the majestic allure of a 2-days, 1-night cruise to Halong Bay, designed specifically for the discerning traveler seeking an unparalleled experience. Marvel at the grandeur of Sung Sot cave, the largest of its kind in Halong Bay, as you navigate its awe-inspiring Luon cave either via kayak or on a traditional bamboo boat. This cruise itinerary also includes a visit to the picturesque Titop Island, here, you can indulge in a refreshing beach side retreat and an invigorating hike to the mountain’s summit for a panoramic view that will leave you breathless. As you sail through tranquil waters onboard a Vietnamese traditional boat, you’ll truly appreciate Halong Bay’s stunning beauty from an authentic perspective.

Sample cruise itinerary: 

• 08:00 – 08:30 A driver will pick you up from your hotel in the Old Quarter (A short break on route for refreshments about 20 minutes)

• 11:30 – 11:45 Arrive at Halong International Habor

• 12:15 Embark on the cruise by tender. Check-in, enjoy welcome drinks and cruise briefing

• 13:00 Enjoy lunch while cruising to magnificent Ha Long Bay, and admire the fascinating formations on the way

• 14:45 Luon cave – kayaking or bamboo boat. Luon cave excursion on bamboo rowing boat by locals or kayaking. This is one of the must-do activities in the bay.

• 16:00 Titop Island – Climbing, Beach & Swimming. Your next stop is Titop Island with its famous crescent moon-shaped beach and tranquil beautiful blue waters. Viewing Halong Bay from the peak of Titop Island is another not-to-be-missed activity.

• 17:00 – 18:30 Enjoy the best moments of the day at sundeck as the sun hits the water between the dramatic limestone peaks and emerald-green coves, enjoying drinks and a cooking demonstration.

• 19:15 Savour a delicious dinner

• 21:00 Night-time squid fishing

• 22:30 Free of mind with sweet dreams

• Overnight - 1 Nt / Shared Double or Twin Cabin / Halong Bay Cruise Chinese Junk - ( Boat category of choice )

Day 03 - Halong Bay > Ninh Binh (B)

Cruise continues...

Morning - (08:30am > 12:00pm)

• 06:15 Enjoy the sunrise on the Bay. Morning Tai Chi session on sundeck.

• 06:30 Light breakfast. Coffee, tea, and pastries served in the restaurant

• 07:20 Sung Sot cave excursion: Explore Sung Sot Cave – the biggest and most stunning cave in Halong Bay

• 09:15 Check-out of cabins & bill settlement. Start cruising back to the port

• 09:30 Buffet brunch served at the restaurant

• 10:45 – 11:00 Back to the port. Farewell and disembark.

Afternoon - (12:00pm > 18:00pm)

• Transfer IC - private chartered vehicle - from (Halong Bay) to (Ninh Binh) - 205km / 127mi / 3hrs30'

• Sightseeing continues at Ninh Binh  ... 

• Optional Activity: discover the enchanting beauty of Ninh Binh and Tam Coc, often referred to as "Halong Bay on land," where majestic limestone karsts rise from lush rice paddies and tranquil rivers. This hidden gem of Vietnam offers a serene escape into nature, with stunning landscapes that are both awe-inspiring and peaceful. On this tour, you can take a boat ride through the calm waters of Tam Coc, passing through caves and under towering cliffs, while enjoying the verdant beauty of the surrounding countryside. Explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, home to centuries-old temples dedicated to the early dynasties, and hike up to the breathtaking Mua Cave for panoramic views of the region. Whether you're exploring historic sites, cruising through stunning landscapes, or simply soaking in the tranquility, Ninh Binh and Tam Coc offer an unforgettable experience full of natural wonders and rich cultural heritage. 

Dinner break - (18:00pm > 20:00pm)

• Venture out on your own - you can consult your virtual assistant for local restaurant recommendations. Dinner & transfers to/from the restaurant are at own expense.

Evening - (20:00pm > 22:00pm) 

• Overnight - 1 Nt / Shared Double or Twin Room / Ninh Binh - ( Hotel category of choice )

Day 04 - Ninh Binh > Pu Luong Nature Reserve (B)

• Complimentary breakfast at your hotel.

Morning - (08:30am > 12:00pm)

• Transfer IC - private chartered vehicle - from (Ninh Binh) to (Pu Luong Nature Reserve) - 130km / 81mi / 3hrs

• Escape to the untouched beauty of Pu Luong Nature Reserve, a hidden paradise in northern Vietnam that offers a tranquil retreat into lush landscapes and vibrant culture. Known for its rolling hills, terraced rice paddies, and pristine rivers, Pu Luong is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. On this tour, you'll get an opportunity to trek through scenic trails, explore remote ethnic minority villages, and immerse yourself in the serene environment of this protected reserve. Visit breathtaking viewpoints, swim in crystal-clear streams, and enjoy the peaceful rhythms of rural life, all while discovering the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this extraordinary landscape. 

• Optional Activity: Uncover an array of natural treasures on a stroll through Pu Luong Nature Reserve: 1) Giant Bamboo Water Wheels - 2) Bamboo Rafting on the Cham River - 3) visit Doan market to encounter Thai & Muong ethnic minorities - 4) Hieu Waterfall - 5) Hike up to the cloud hunting spot - ...

Lunch break - (12:00pm > 14:00pm)

• Venture out on your own - you can consult your virtual assistant for local restaurant recommendations. Lunch & transfers to/from the restaurant are at own expense.

Afternoon - (14:00pm > 18:00pm) 

• Continue your discovery of Pu Luong Nature Reserve: 6)  Explore Kho Muong Bat Cave - 7) Walk along the terraced rice fields - 8) Hike to viewpoint 1 for a magnificent panoramic vista  - 9) Hike to viewpoint 2 for another birds' eye view over Pu Luong beautiful surroundings - 10) Meet the friendly local people at your Pu Luong Homestay. 

Dinner break - (18:00pm > 20:00pm)

• Venture out on your own - you can consult your virtual assistant for local restaurant recommendations. Dinner & transfers to/from the restaurant are at own expense.

Evening - (20:00pm > 22:00pm) 

• Relax, unwind and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings of your homestay in Pu Luong Nature Reserve.

• Overnight - 1 Nt / Shared Double or Twin Room / Pu Luong Nature Reserve - ( Homestay category of choice )

Day 05 - Pu Luong Nature Reserve > Mai Chau (B)

• Complimentary breakfast at your hotel.

Morning - (08:30am > 12:00pm)

• Transfer IC - private chartered car - (Pu Luong)~(Mai Chau) - 69km / 43mi / 2hrs

• Step into the serene beauty of Mai Chau, a picturesque valley nestled in the heart of Vietnam’s northwestern mountains. Surrounded by lush green hills and dotted with traditional stilt houses, Mai Chau offers a peaceful escape into rural life, where stunning landscapes and vibrant local culture come together. On this tour, you’ll explore the charming villages of the White Thai ethnic group, hike through scenic rice fields, and cycle along winding paths that offer panoramic views of the valley. Experience the warm hospitality of the locals, taste delicious regional dishes, and discover the traditions that have shaped this idyllic corner of Vietnam. 

• Optional Activity: Uncover an array of natural treasures on a stroll through Mai Chau: 1) Viewpoint 1 - Đèo Đá Trắng - 2) Viewpoint 2 - Thung Khe Pass - 3) Viewpoint 3 - Mai Chau Valley - 4) Gò Lào Waterfall - 5) Văn Village Rice Terraces -  

Lunch break - (12:00pm > 14:00pm)

• Venture out on your own - you can consult your virtual assistant for local restaurant recommendations. Lunch & transfers to/from the restaurant are at own expense.

Afternoon - (14:00pm > 18:00pm) 

• Continue your discovery of Mai Chau Valley: 6) Chiều Cave - 7) Mỏ Luông Cave - 8) Hoa Ban Plus Traditional Weaving Atelier - 9) Poom Coong Village - 

Dinner break - (18:00pm > 20:00pm)

• Venture out on your own - you can consult your virtual assistant for local restaurant recommendations. We recommend a pre-booked dinner arrangement at Ban Lac Village.

Evening - (20:00pm > 22:00pm) 

• Attending an evening dinner dance show in Ban Lac Stilt Village, Mai Chau, is a truly enchanting experience that immerses you in the heart of Vietnam’s cultural richness. As the sun sets over the lush green rice paddies, you are welcomed into a traditional stilt house, where the warmth of local hospitality fills the air. The evening begins with a feast of authentic, home-cooked delicacies, showcasing the vibrant flavors of the region. As you dine, the rhythmic beats of traditional music accompany an extraordinary dance performance, where the villagers, dressed in colorful ethnic attire, share their captivating stories through movement. The experience is a harmonious blend of stunning landscapes, delectable cuisine, and an intimate glimpse into the cultural heritage of the White Thai people, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime. 

• Relax, unwind and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings of your homestay in Mai Chau.

• Overnight - 1 Nt / Shared Double or Twin Room / Mai Chau -  ( Homestay category of choice )

Day 06 - Mai Chau > Hoa Binh > Hanoi (B)

• Complimentary breakfast at your hotel.

Morning - (08:30am > 12:00pm)

• Transfer IC - private chartered car - (Mai Chau)~(Hoa Binh) - 66km / 41mi / 1hr30'

• Welcome to Hoa Binh, a captivating destination where lush landscapes, rich culture, and peaceful rural life come together in perfect harmony. Located in northern Vietnam, Hoa Binh is home to rolling hills, tranquil lakes, and vibrant ethnic minority communities, offering a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of Vietnam’s natural beauty and heritage. On today's tour, you’ll have an opportunity to explore the serene Hoa Binh Lake; take a boat ride through stunning limestone caves; and visit traditional villages where local customs and lifestyles have remained unchanged for centuries. Wander through lush valleys, learn about the diverse cultures of the region’s ethnic groups, and enjoy authentic Vietnamese cuisine made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Hoa Binh is a place of both adventure and tranquility, offering an unforgettable journey through Vietnam’s rural charm and natural splendor. 

• Optional Activity: uncover an array of natural and cultural treasures on a discovery of Hoa Binh: 1) Hang Kia Sea of Clouds Viewpoint  - 2) Kayak @ Mai Châu Floating House - 3) Mỏ Luông Cave - 4) Phong Phú Cave - 5) Thung Nai Lake Boat Tour - 6) Thác Bờ temple - 7) Hoa Binh Lake Boat Tour - Bich Ha Cruise Terminal - 8) Hoa Binh Reservoir & Dam - 9) Ethnographic museum - 10) Kim Bôi Hot Spring - 

Lunch break - (12:00pm > 14:00pm)

• Venture out on your own - you can consult your virtual assistant for local restaurant recommendations. Lunch & transfers to/from the restaurant are at own expense.

Afternoon - (14:00pm > 18:00pm) 

• Transfer IC - private chartered car - (Hoa Binh)~(Hanoi) - 72km / 45mi / 1hr30'

Dinner break - (18:00pm > 20:00pm)

• Venture out on your own - you can consult your virtual assistant for local restaurant recommendations. Dinner & transfers to/from the restaurant are at own expense.

Evening - (20:00pm > 22:00pm) 

• Overnight - 1 Nt / Shared Double or Twin Room / Hanoi - ( Hotel category of choice

Day 07 - Hanoi > Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport (B) 

Morning - (08:30am > 12:00pm)

• Complimentary breakfast at your hotel.

• Transfer OUT - private chartered car - from (Hanoi HTL)~(Hanoi Noi Bai Airport) - 30km / 19mi / 0hr45'

• We bid farewell at Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport and hope to see you again in Southeast Asia for another adventure.