14 Days - Backroads Of North Vietnam

Welcome to Vietnam! Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, complete the necessary visa procedures before collecting your luggage. Please note that the visa letter and stamping fees are not included. Once you have exited the terminal, you will be greeted by your local guide and driver, who will accompany you on the transfer to your hotel in Hanoi.

Hotel check-in is available from 2:00pm. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to relax and settle in, or take a short walk around the surrounding streets to get your bearings.

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, offers a fascinating mix of old and new. Tree-lined avenues and colonial buildings sit alongside buzzing markets, pagodas, and modern cafés. The city is full of character, with each district offering something unique to discover. If time allows, consider a gentle wander through the Old Quarter or along the edge of Hoan Kiem Lake.

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and meet your guide for the journey south to Ninh Binh, a province known for its striking natural beauty and deep cultural heritage. The drive takes approximately 2.5 hours and passes through the Red River Delta, offering a chance to observe scenes of rural life along the way. As you leave behind the bustle of Hanoi, the landscape opens into fields of rice, small towns, and rivers lined with banana trees and fishing boats.

Your first stop is Tam Coc, one of the most scenic areas in Vietnam, often compared to Ha Long Bay thanks to its limestone karsts that rise sharply from emerald rice paddies and meandering waterways. The name Tam Coc means "three caves," and you'll explore them by traditional sampan, rowed by local boatwomen who often use their feet to navigate the oars. As you glide along the Ngo Dong River, pass beneath low-hanging grottoes and through tunnels of rock, with cliffs towering above and birds nesting in the cracks. During the rice season, the vivid green or golden hues of the paddies create an unforgettable scene.

Following the boat trip, visit the Thai Vi Temple, dedicated to the Tran dynasty kings. Tucked among rice fields and framed by karst formations, this peaceful temple complex is built from stone and wood, and surrounded by a tranquil garden. Continue with a leisurely cycling tour through the surrounding countryside. The ride is flat and relaxed, taking you through quiet villages, between soaring limestone peaks, and past farmers tending to ducks and water buffalo. It's a window into everyday life in rural northern Vietnam.

Stop for a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant, featuring fresh regional dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients. In the afternoon, head to nearby Hoa Lu, the capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. Though little remains of the original citadel, the site is rich in historical significance and includes temples honouring the former emperors Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh. Your guide will share stories about this brief but important period in Vietnamese history, when the country first gained independence after centuries of Chinese rule.

If weather and time allow, conclude your day with a hike up Ma Yen Mountain, also known as Hang Mua. The climb is steep, with over 200 stone steps, but from the top you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over the Sao Khe River, rice fields, and the ancient capital site below.

From here, return to Tam Coc and check in to your accommodation with the remainder of the afternoon at leisure. You may wish to relax at your hotel or take a quiet stroll through the surrounding village lanes. As the sun sets behind the karsts and the sounds of the countryside settle in, it is a peaceful place to unwind after a full day of discovery.

Begin your day with breakfast surrounded by the calm, rural landscape of Ninh Binh. As the morning mist lifts from the rice paddies and limestone peaks, your guide and driver will collect you from your hotel for a full-day journey into the rich natural world of Cuc Phuong National Park. Located around 120 kilometres southwest of Hanoi, the drive takes approximately two and a half hours each way, passing through a patchwork of farmland, rivers, and small rural communities.

Cuc Phuong holds the title of Vietnam's first national park and remains one of the most important sites for biodiversity in the country. Established in 1960, it stretches across more than 200 square kilometres of lowland tropical forest and limestone mountain ranges. Its ancient trees, rare wildlife, and archaeological sites have made it a centre for both conservation and scientific research. Upon arrival, begin your visit at the Endangered Primate Rescue Centre, which is managed by a team of local and international conservationists. The centre is home to over 150 primates from around 15 species, many of which are critically endangered. You will have a chance to observe gibbons, langurs, and lorises in spacious enclosures and learn about the threats facing these animals in the wild.

Afterwards, continue deeper into the forest, where a short walking trail introduces you to some of the park's diverse flora and fauna. Along the way, your guide will highlight notable plant species, towering centuries-old trees, and signs of animal activity such as nesting sites or butterfly clusters. The pace is gentle and suitable for all levels of fitness, with opportunities to pause for photos and questions. The forest canopy provides shade, and the air is noticeably cooler than in the cities, making it a refreshing change of environment.

A traditional Vietnamese lunch is served at a simple park restaurant, using fresh local ingredients. The setting is quiet and surrounded by trees, a perfect spot to rest and enjoy a relaxed meal before continuing your visit. In the early afternoon, make your way to the Cave of Early Man, a remarkable site where archaeological remains of ancient humans were found. The cave contains evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years and offers a glimpse into Vietnam's distant past. Walk through its wide entrance, explore its chambers, and learn how early communities once lived in this very area.

In the late afternoon, return by car to Ninh Binh, arriving back at your accommodation in Tam Coc with time to unwind. The rest of the day is free to relax, reflect on the day's discoveries, or take a gentle walk through the nearby village lanes as the sun sets behind the limestone cliffs.

This morning, depart from Ninh Binh and travel by private car to Pu Luong Nature Reserve. The drive takes approximately four to five hours, passing through scenic countryside and winding mountain roads. As you begin to climb, the landscape transforms from lowland rice fields into forested hills and limestone valleys. A highlight of the journey is the mountain pass that offers panoramic views across the lush valley below, a preview of the natural beauty that awaits in Pu Luong.

Arrive at your accommodation in time for a freshly prepared lunch, served with views over the terraced hillsides. Nestled in a remote part of Thanh Hoa Province, Pu Luong is known for its rich biodiversity, traditional stilt-house villages, and peaceful atmosphere. The afternoon is free for you to relax and enjoy your retreat. You might choose to rest in a hammock, walk through nearby rice terraces, or simply soak in the peaceful rhythms of village life. The views from your lodge stretch across a wide green valley, often with clouds drifting low over the mountains.

Later in the day, set out by car from the valley to the starting point of your walk to Cham village. The drive takes around twenty minutes and covers a distance of about fifteen kilometres. From here, begin your guided walk along a trail that passes through rural hamlets and quiet village roads. The path is a combination of gravel tracks and cement lanes, making for an easy and comfortable walk suitable for most fitness levels.

The first stop is a traditional waterwheel site, where bamboo wheels still operate using techniques passed down through generations. These waterwheels play an essential role in the daily life of local farmers, used to transport water from the river to irrigate nearby rice fields. Take time to explore the area, ask questions, and hear stories from your guide about the community and its connection to the land.

The walk continues across open rice paddies and past traditional stilt houses, surrounded by hills and forests. This is a chance to observe rural life at a slow and gentle pace, with scenes of farmers at work, children playing, and buffalo grazing in the fields. The walk finishes along a paved road with sweeping views of the valley below, a peaceful conclusion to your afternoon. At the endpoint of the trail, your driver will be waiting to take you back to your accommodation in Pu Luong. The evening is at leisure to relax, dine, and take in the quiet beauty of your surroundings.

Start your day with breakfast at your accommodation in Pu Luong, surrounded by misty mountains and the gentle stir of rural life. Today’s journey takes you on a rewarding exploration of Lan Village and Hieu Waterfall, combining natural beauty with meaningful cultural encounters.

Depart on foot directly from your lodge, beginning with a walk along a paved road that gradually descends into a lush valley of rice fields and forested slopes. As you make your way down, the landscape begins to open, offering sweeping views of terraced fields and distant hills. The path continues along quiet cement roads through the countryside, where you will likely pass farmers tending their crops and water buffalo grazing among the paddies. These peaceful scenes provide an intimate glimpse into daily life in this remote corner of Vietnam.

Soon, you will reach Lan Village, a small community known for its traditional weaving techniques. Stop at a local family home to rest and enjoy a warm welcome from your hosts. Learn about the village’s weaving heritage, which has been passed down through generations, and take time to explore the surrounding homes and laneways. As you wander, you may see women working at handlooms, children playing nearby, and colourful fabrics drying in the sun.

Leaving the village, continue along narrow trails that cut between rice paddies and open fields. The views on both sides are stunning, with layers of mountains, valleys, and green expanses stretching into the distance. As you walk, the terrain begins to change. The trail leads into more shaded areas, moving through sections of forest and jungle where the air is cool and fresh. You may spot butterflies, birds, and tropical plants as your guide shares insights about the local ecology.

Eventually, the path brings you back through a local village with flat, even roads. Here, you will pass by more stilt houses, home gardens, and scenes of everyday life. From there, follow a quiet off-road trail through a final stretch of rice fields before joining a paved road with wide views of the surrounding mountains and forest.

Your walk ends at Hieu Waterfall, a peaceful and scenic spot nestled in the trees. After a short climb to the base of the falls, enjoy time to rest, take photos, or simply sit and listen to the steady sound of water flowing over the rocks. A traditional Vietnamese lunch will be served at a nearby restaurant, offering a chance to relax and refuel in a serene setting.

In the early afternoon, return to your accommodation in Pu Luong by car. The drive takes about 30 minutes and covers a distance of around 20 kilometres. The rest of the day is free to relax at your lodge, enjoy the surrounding views, or take a gentle walk through the nearby village as the sun sets over the hills.

After breakfast, begin your day with a short drive from your accommodation in Pu Luong to the starting point of your morning walk. The drive takes around ten minutes, covering just under five kilometres. From here, set out on foot toward Kho Muong Village, one of the most scenic and culturally rich communities in the Pu Luong Nature Reserve.

The walk begins along village paths and open fields, offering a peaceful introduction to the landscape. The trail is a mix of gravel tracks and off-road paths that pass through gently rolling terrain. As you walk, take in views of cultivated rice paddies, grazing livestock, and the daily rhythm of village life. Local children may wave as you pass, and you’ll likely spot water buffalo cooling off in streams or farmers tending their fields.

Approaching Kho Muong, the trail becomes paved, winding gently into the heart of the village. Nestled in a quiet valley, Kho Muong is home to Thai ethnic minority families who live in traditional stilt houses surrounded by terraced fields and forested hills. Your guide will explain the customs and traditions of the community, offering insight into the lives of people who have farmed and lived in this region for generations.

From the village, continue walking toward the entrance of Bat Cave, one of the lesser-known but intriguing natural sites in Pu Luong. The cave is hidden within a limestone mountain and home to several bat species. Its large entrance opens into a cool, cavernous space where you can explore the rock formations and learn about the cave’s ecology. The surrounding area offers excellent views of the valley, with dramatic limestone peaks and dense forest in every direction.

After your visit to the cave, retrace your steps along a cement road and gentle ramp leading back to the village outskirts. Your driver will be waiting at the pick-up point to return you to your lodge. The return journey takes about twenty minutes. Once back at the accommodation, enjoy some time to freshen up and relax before lunch is served.

Following lunch, check out of your room and begin the journey to Mai Chau, located around two hours away by road. The drive winds through quiet mountain passes and rural landscapes, with opportunities to stop along the way for photos or short walks. This part of northern Vietnam is known for its beauty, with valleys, stilt-house villages, and terraced farms stretching across the hills. You will arrive in Mai Chau in the afternoon and check in to your accommodation, surrounded by rice paddies and forested peaks. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Begin your day with a scenic drive from your accommodation in Mai Chau to Na Cut Village, located approximately twenty minutes away. This small village marks the starting point of a rewarding hike through the hidden corners of Mai Chau Valley, offering both natural beauty and cultural insight.

From Na Cut, set out on foot along quiet village paths that lead into the heart of the region’s lush bamboo forests. As you walk, the landscape reveals a patchwork of tropical vegetation, dense greenery, and traditional stilt houses nestled among the trees. The trail meanders through a series of small settlements inhabited by the Thai ethnic minority, who have lived in this area for generations. Their homes are made of wood and palm leaves, elevated on stilts and surrounded by gardens, rice paddies, and forest edges.

The route continues into the lower slopes of Pu Poe Mountain, known for its pristine tropical forest and limestone peaks. Along the way, enjoy views of towering cliffs, unusual rock formations, and gently curving terraces that trace the shape of the hillsides. Stop at intervals to chat with local villagers or simply pause for photographs of the sweeping valley views. The walk is not overly strenuous, but it offers an immersive experience of the region’s quiet beauty.

The path eventually leads to Cha Long Village, a small and authentic settlement surrounded by fields of cassava, corn, and other crops. The village remains largely untouched by mass tourism, offering a glimpse into daily rural life where traditional farming methods are still practised. Here, you may meet residents working in the fields or see children helping with household tasks, all set against a backdrop of forested slopes and open sky.

Continue your walk along shaded trails, passing through more open farmland and patches of native forest. The fresh mountain air and gentle pace of the trek make it an ideal way to absorb the rhythm of village life and the rich biodiversity of the area. By late morning or early afternoon, return to your vehicle and transfer back to your accommodation in Mai Chau. The remainder of the day is free to relax or explore at your own pace.

Wake up to the peaceful sounds of nature and the soft light filtering through the valley. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your lodge, with views of rice paddies, distant hills, or quiet village life depending on your surroundings. The morning is yours to take in the calm atmosphere of Mai Chau one last time.

You may wish to take a gentle walk through the nearby fields, sip coffee on the terrace, or simply rest and enjoy the setting. It is a quiet and reflective end to your time in the mountains, where the pace of life moves slowly and the landscape invites you to pause.

In the late morning, check out of your accommodation and begin the drive back to Hanoi. The journey takes approximately three to four hours, passing through rural towns, farmland, and small roadside markets. Arrive in Hanoi in the afternoon.

Explore Hanoi through a local perspective on a full day experience that combines cultural landmarks with the daily rituals of the people who live here. This is not a standard sightseeing tour. It is a chance to walk through quiet streets, sample traditional food and drink, and connect with the rhythm of everyday life in Vietnam’s capital.

Begin your morning at Hoan Kiem Lake, where local residents gather at first light to practise tai chi, dance, walk, and greet the day. The atmosphere is both calm and communal, offering a unique introduction to the pace of life in Hanoi. Cross the red wooden bridge to visit Ngoc Son Temple, a small shrine dedicated to a national hero that sits on a tranquil island in the centre of the lake.

Afterwards, enjoy a classic Vietnamese coffee. Choose between a strong iced coffee with condensed milk or Hanoi’s famous egg coffee, made with whipped egg yolk. These drinks are best enjoyed seated on a small plastic stool outside a quiet café, watching the city wake up around you.

Walk through the Old Quarter, where narrow streets are named after traditional trades. These busy lanes are filled with small family shops, old French architecture, market stalls, and locals going about their morning routines. Your guide will point out hidden details and share stories about the history and culture of the area.

Next, visit Hoa Lo Prison, which once held Vietnamese political prisoners under French rule and later became known for housing American pilots during the war. The site is now a museum, offering a powerful insight into Vietnam’s struggle for independence and the more recent past. Then continue to B Fifty Two Lake, a quiet pond where the wreckage of a downed American aircraft remains in the water - a striking reminder of the city’s history within a peaceful neighbourhood setting.

Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university. Built in the eleventh century, this complex is dedicated to Confucius and scholars, and its peaceful courtyards and tiled walkways offer a quiet break from the energy of the streets.

Stop for lunch and enjoy a serving of bun cha, one of Hanoi’s most beloved dishes. Grilled pork is served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a light dipping sauce, often accompanied by crispy spring rolls and a glass of iced green tea.

In the afternoon, walk along the tracks of the train street, where a working railway line passes directly through a narrow residential area. Homes, cafés, and daily life carry on just steps from the rails. Depending on the train schedule, you may even have a chance to watch the train pass through. This is a chance to see how urban life adapts in unexpected and creative ways.

End your day with a visit to a bia hoi corner, where fresh local beer is poured and shared at small roadside stalls. Pull up a seat, sip a cold drink, and enjoy the lively, casual atmosphere. It is a fitting end to a day spent experiencing Hanoi not only through its monuments, but through its streets, flavours, and people. Return to your hotel in the early evening.

Spend the day discovering a different side of Hanoi as you cycle through its peaceful outskirts and surrounding countryside. This full day experience takes you away from the city centre into quiet farming villages, lush gardens, and one of Vietnam’s most important historical landmarks. It is a gentle and rewarding journey that offers insight into daily life beyond the capital’s busy streets.

Begin with a short transfer to the starting point, where your bikes and guide will be waiting. From here, set off on a relaxed ride that passes by the edge of Quang An flower market, one of the largest wholesale flower markets in Hanoi. Though you will not enter the market itself, you will glimpse the colourful activity from the road as vendors and traders move fresh blooms destined for shops across the city. The route then continues into a quieter world of gardens and small agricultural plots, where local families grow vegetables, herbs, strawberries, and kumquats. Ride through a mix of narrow village lanes and paths lined with banana trees and bamboo, with time to stop and take in the scenery or chat with friendly locals.

As you ride further from the city, the roads become even quieter, winding through farmland and rural hamlets. The pace is relaxed, with frequent pauses to photograph the landscape, taste seasonal fruits, or observe daily farming activities. Eventually, you will reach the Red River and cross the historic Long Bien Bridge, a landmark designed over a century ago during the French colonial period. Its narrow pedestrian and bicycle lanes offer sweeping views over the river and surrounding countryside.

On the far side of the bridge, continue cycling along quiet village roads that trace the riverbanks. At one point, you and your bikes will board a small ferry to cross to the opposite shore. The ride is brief but scenic, giving you a chance to enjoy the landscape from the water. Once across, follow a trail through farmlands and local communities until you stop for lunch at a family-run restaurant. Enjoy a meal prepared with fresh local produce in a relaxed garden setting.

In the afternoon, ride to the site of Co Loa Citadel. This ancient fortified settlement dates back to the third century before the common era and was the capital of the Au Lac Kingdom. The spiral layout of the citadel, along with its defensive walls and moats, remains clearly visible. Explore the central temple and surrounding grounds on foot while your guide shares the legend of King An Duong and the magical crossbow said to have defended the kingdom.

After your visit, return to Hanoi by private vehicle. You will arrive in the late afternoon with a deeper appreciation of the rural life, natural beauty, and ancient history that exists just beyond the edge of the city.

After breakfast, depart Hanoi by private vehicle for the journey to Halong Bay. The drive takes approximately two and a half to three hours, passing through rural villages, rice fields, and quiet towns of the Red River Delta. Upon arrival at Ha Long International Cruise Port, you will be welcomed at the waiting lounge, where there is time to relax while the cruise team completes registration and prepares for boarding.

At around 12:30pm, you will be transferred by tender to your boat. Once on board, enjoy a welcome drink and a short safety briefing before checking in to your private cabin. Settle in as the boat begins cruising through the tranquil waters of Bai Tu Long Bay, a less visited part of the larger Halong Bay region known for its unspoiled scenery.

Lunch is served at 1:30pm, featuring a set menu of Vietnamese dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients. As you dine, the boat sails past limestone karsts, hidden coves, and floating fishing villages. The views are ever-changing and create a peaceful backdrop for your meal.

By 3:00pm, the boat arrives at Cap La Island. This is your chance to explore the bay by kayak, paddling between limestone formations and through calm lagoons. There is also time to swim in the clear water or simply relax on the beach or deck, taking in the quiet beauty of the bay.

Return to the boat by 5:30pm and enjoy a sunset party on the sundeck with light refreshments. As the sun dips behind the limestone peaks, the boat anchors in a sheltered area for the night. It is a peaceful and atmospheric setting, ideal for unwinding after a full afternoon outdoors.

Dinner is served at 7:00pm, with a multi-course Vietnamese menu served in the dining room. After dinner, the evening is yours to enjoy. Try your hand at squid fishing with the crew, play a board game, or have a quiet drink under the stars. The night on the bay is still and calm, offering a memorable close to your first day aboard.

Wake early to begin your day on the water with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck at 6:00am. This gentle morning routine, set against the dramatic limestone backdrop of Bai Tu Long Bay, is a calming way to stretch and wake the body. Alternatively, simply enjoy the early light and morning air with a cup of tea or coffee as the bay slowly comes to life around you.

Breakfast is served at 7:30am in the dining room. The meal is a Western-style buffet with a variety of familiar favourites, providing the energy you need for a full day of discovery. As you dine, the boat continues to cruise slowly through the bay.

At 9:00am, transfer to a smaller day boat for continued exploration. This part of the journey takes you further into the heart of Bai Tu Long Bay, passing quiet floating villages such as Cap La and Cong Dam. These areas are part of the Bai Tu Long Geology Park, known for their unspoiled beauty and unique formations. Visit Vung Vieng fishing village, one of the few traditional floating communities still remaining in the bay. Here, meet local residents and learn about their way of life on the water - a lifestyle that has been preserved for generations.

Return to the boat at around 12:00pm for a hot lunch freshly prepared and served on board. Relax and take in the views while enjoying a meal of Vietnamese dishes made with seasonal ingredients.

In the early afternoon, spend more time kayaking and swimming around Cong Dam. The area is quiet and scenic, with crystal clear water and towering karst cliffs that provide a stunning setting for your paddle. If conditions are suitable, your guide may also take you for a short visit to Thay Cave, a small hidden grotto tucked into the cliffs. Alternatively, stay on board and relax on the deck, enjoying the stillness and beauty of the bay.

By 4:30pm, return to the main boat and settle in for another sunset on the water. Drinks and snacks are served on the sundeck as the light changes over the limestone peaks and the boat anchors for the night.

Dinner is served at 7:00pm, with another full menu of Vietnamese cuisine. The evening is free to spend as you choose. Join others for group games or quiz-style challenges, try your luck with squid fishing off the side of the boat, or simply find a quiet spot to enjoy the calm of the bay under the stars.

Begin your final day in Bai Tu Long Bay with an early start. At 6:00am, join a gentle Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the sun rises over the limestone peaks. The calm morning air, quiet waters, and slowly brightening sky create the perfect atmosphere to stretch and awaken your body. If you prefer, simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings with a cup of tea or coffee as the bay stirs to life.

At 7:00am, a Western-style breakfast is served in the dining room. Enjoy a light and familiar meal while the boat begins to cruise toward your next destination. This morning’s excursion offers one final opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the bay.

At 8:00am, disembark for a guided visit to Thien Canh Son Cave. Tucked away on a small island, this cave is accessible by a short climb and reveals a dramatic interior filled with stalactites and rock formations. From the entrance, enjoy sweeping views across the bay - a memorable farewell to the landscape you have been exploring.

Return to the boat by 9:00am. You will have about thirty minutes to freshen up and complete your packing. Take a final few moments to relax on deck or in your cabin as the boat makes its way back toward the harbour.

At 10:00am, join a short Vietnamese cooking demonstration on board. Learn how to prepare a simple traditional dish such as fresh spring rolls, once guided by chef Gordon Ramsay himself. You may also have the chance to try fruit and vegetable carving, a popular decorative skill in Vietnamese cuisine.

Lunch is served at 11:00am. Enjoy a final traditional Vietnamese meal as the boat cruises gently through the bay on its way back to the port.

At 12:00pm, arrive at Ha Long International Cruise Port and disembark. Your private driver will be waiting for the return transfer to Hanoi, with arrival in the late afternoon. The journey back is a relaxing time to reflect on your cruise through one of Vietnam’s most iconic natural landscapes.

Enjoy the morning at leisure. Depending on your flight schedule, you may wish to take a final walk near your hotel, relax with a coffee, or simply rest before your journey.

Hotel check-out time is at 12:00pm. Your driver will collect you approximately two and a half to three hours before your departing flight, allowing ample time for the transfer to the airport and any necessary check-in procedures.

This marks the end of your journey, with time to reflect on the experiences, flavours, and moments that made your time in Vietnam memorable.