In the morning, take a long drive to the Ha Giang province. This is a highland region of forests and terraced rice and corn paddies, with the mountains of Heaven’s Gate (Quan Ba pass) soaring in the background. The Ha Giang province also shares a border with southern China and is known as Vietnam's final frontier. After relaxing and getting to know your surroundings, visit the local markets and shop fronts, which are relics of a bygone era. Afterwards, venture to the local museum and explore Cuom Village, witnessing the colorful traditional dress of the local people. The evening is free to spend as you wish.

Overnight in Ha Giang. 

Today, leave for the first of many scenic mountain drives throughout Ha Giang province. Stop to browse Minh Tao Market before wandering through the village of Nam Luong. Afterwards, pass through Lung Tam textile village and the Vuong Family Palace in Sa Phin commune, built in the shape of a royal Manchu palace. This is known as the former palace of the Hmongs’ King before continuing to Dong Van where you'll spend the night.

Overnight in Dong Van.

This morning, we take the most spectacular road in all of Vietnam, which winds for 15 km to the top of the Ma Pi Leng Pass, a hulk of desert peaks and unique canyons in the world. We then descend on Meo Vac for lunch. Visit the Meo Vac market before setting off on a trekking loop that starts and finishes in Dong Van. The trek (approximately 4 hours in total) is moderate and suitable for those with an average fitness level. Wind your way through the spectacular landscape, where you can expect to witness glorious views and capture some amazing pictures of lush valleys and rice paddies. After that, drive past terraced rice farms on the road to Bao Lac (approximately 4 hours), a small town in the mountainous region of northern Vietnam. The area is home to the Black Lo Lo ethnic group, who are well known for their colourful attire and finesse in making bronze drums. The bronze drums hold a special place in Lo Lo customs, being used at funerals and important family events. In Lo Lo culture, only the sound of the drums can help the souls of the dead find their way to the birthplace of their ancestors. 

Today you will travel to Ba Be Lake (approximately 4 hours). Once there, head down the river by boat on an exploration of Ba Be National Park, visiting the largest natural lake in Vietnam. Disembark for some light walks along the way, visit the impressive waterfalls that feed the lake and observe the natural flora and fauna. Return to land in the afternoon, and head to a family-owned guesthouse in Pac Ngoi village where you will spend the night. The family you’re staying with will prepare lunch for you, and the rest of the day is free to explore the surrounding area. In the evening sit down for a delicious dinner with your hosts. This is a great opportunity to gain an insight into their lives and culture.

Overnignt in Pac Ngoi.

Today you will experience the ancient culture and history of Vietnam together with seeing the stunning landscape and beautiful scenery when we travel to the Ninh Binh Province. Your guide will pick you up from your hotel around 7:30-8:00 am and depart to Ninh Binh.

The first destination to visit is Hoa Lu ancient capital. Here you will explore the outstanding architecture of King Dinh and King Le temples, the first emperors of ancient Vietnam. 

Then move to Tam Coc wharf, where you will have lunch with Vietnamese food. And then board the rowing boat and cruise along the river through the limestone caves. After the boat trip, you will take a cycling trip around the idyllic village through the rice fields to explore the surrounding sceneries. 

Then come back to the shuttle bus to return to your hotel in Hanoi.

Overnight in Hanoi.

In the morning, check out of the hotel, and get picked up by the Cruise team. Take the most scenic route to reach Halong Bay, taking you across the Red River Delta with emerald green rice paddies stretching for as far as the eyes can see. 

On arrival at the pier, you will board the cruise and enjoy the fantastic views of limestone rocks and the karst grottoes. Have an utterly delicious seafood lunch and enjoy the time at the sundeck exploring the Bay. 

The cruise will stop in a secret place where you will spend time kayaking or swimming, so you can explore the karst grottoes closer. Towards the evening, you will return to the boat for an early dinner, followed by some time at leisure. You can optionally attend the activities taking part on the boat or just relax.

Overnight on cruise.

Note: In case of bad weather (the boat is not allowed to push off or not allowed to overnight in the sea), the Ha Long bay tour could be canceled without notice. We will consider other replacement tours or a refund based on the specific circumstances.