13 Days Vietnam Mountainous Adventure – Off-The-Beaten-Track

Overview

  • Duration:13 days 12 nights
  • Tour Type:Adventure & Nature
  • Language:English, French, German, Italian
This itinerary showcases the highlights of northern Vietnam, starting with arrival and cultural sightseeing in Hanoi. It continues with a scenic day trip to Ninh Binh, including Hoa Lu, Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, and Mua Cave. The journey then moves to Sapa for trekking through ethnic villages, followed by exploration of the dramatic landscapes in Ha Giang Province and Cao Bang Province, including Ban Gioc Waterfall. It concludes with an overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay before returning to Hanoi for departure.

Highlights

  • Hanoi culture day: Ho Chi Minh complex, Temple of Literature, water puppet show
  • Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu, UNESCO Trang An boat ride, Mua Cave summit views
  • Sapa treks through Ma Tra–Ta Phin and Muong Hoa Valley ethnic villages
  • Ha Giang Loop: Heaven’s Gate, Quan Ba Twin Mountains, Ma Pi Leng, Lung Cu Flag Tower
  • Ban Gioc Waterfall and Nguom Ngao Cave with optional waterfall boat ride
  • Overnight Ha Long or Lan Ha Bay cruise with kayaking, cave, and cooking demo
  • Pac Bo historical site: Le Nin Spring, Karl Marx Mountain, Coc Bo Cave

Itinerary

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Day 01: Hanoi Arrival - Free time

Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, complete all arrival procedures including immigration and customs. After exiting the arrival hall, look for your driver waiting in the lobby holding a signboard with your name for a smooth transfer to your hotel in Hanoi city.

The rest of the day is free to relax or explore the lively Hanoi Old Quarter at your own pace. In the evening, you can enjoy local street food and try the famous Vietnamese egg coffee.
Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 02: One Day Hanoi Exploration - Culture & History (B/L)

Start your day with breakfast before meeting your guide for a full-day exploration of Hanoi. Begin at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you’ll also visit his stilt house and the Presidential grounds, followed by the nearby One Pillar Pagoda.
Continue to Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, then head to the scenic Tran Quoc Pagoda by the lake. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit Hoa Lo Prison to learn about its historical significance.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional water puppet show, a unique art form rooted in Vietnamese folklore, before returning to your hotel. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 03: Ninh Binh Excursion - Hoa Lu - Trang An - Mua Cave (B/L)

After breakfast, depart at around 08:00 with your guide for a scenic drive to Ninh Binh Province, located about 120 km from Hanoi.
Your first stop is Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the former capital of Vietnam. Explore the historic temples dedicated to King Dinh and King Le, showcasing traditional Vietnamese architecture from the 17th century.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, featuring specialties such as goat meat and fried rice.
In the afternoon, visit Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a peaceful boat ride through a network of rivers, limestone mountains, and caves including Sang Cave, Toi Cave, and Nau Ruou Cave.
Continue to Mua Cave, where you can climb nearly 500 steps to the top of Lying Dragon Mountain for panoramic views over Tam Coc and the surrounding countryside.
Return to the hotel in the evening. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 04: Hanoi – Sapa – Trekking in Ma Tra – Ta Phin Villages (B/L)

Early wake up and check out hotel.
6.30 – 7.00: our driver will pick you up at hotel in Hanoi and transfer you to Sapa by a sharing limousine bus 9-seat (the journey takes about 5-6 hours)
Bus on the mountain road approaching Sapa Town. On the way you can see a beautiful view, the valley with a terraced field.
12.30 – 13.00: Upon arrival in Sapa town with colorful traditional costumes of H’mong, Dzao, Tay ethnic People. Check in to your hotel and have lunch at a local home.
In the afternoon, within a few minutes of transferring, we bypass through the town of Sapa, and head on out to the spectacular countryside that Sapa has to offer. We start trekking in Ma Tra – Ta Phin Villages.
Throughout this trek, we walk alongside stunning rice terraces, with plenty of picturesque opportunities. As we make our way through this countryside, we meet both the Hmong and Red Dao minorities. This is a good opportunity to chat with your guide to learn about local life for minority groups in this area. Overnight in Sapa.

Day 05: Trekking & Sightseeing in Lao Chai – Ta Van Villages (B/L)

After breakfast, begin a scenic trek southeast of Sa Pa along the Muong Hoa Valley. Walk about 6 km to Y Linh Ho Village, home to the Black H’mong people, then continue 2 km to Lao Chai Village to observe daily life, traditional crafts, and indigo dyeing.

Proceed to Ta Van Village, where the Giay community lives among picturesque rice terraces. Enjoy panoramic views of the valley, interact with local families, and learn about their culture. Lunch will be at a local home before returning to Sa Pa for an overnight stay.

Day 06: Sapa – Transfer to Ha Giang – Yen Minh (B/L/D)

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, then check out.
Around 07:00, a limousine bus will pick you up in Sa Pa for the journey to Ha Giang, offering scenic views of the mountainous landscape along the way.
Around 11:00, take a short break in Tuyen Quang City. By 13:00, arrive in Ha Giang City and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before beginning the famous Ha Giang Loop. Highlights of the afternoon include Km 0 Square, Heaven’s Gate, Quan Ba Twin Mountains, and Can Ty Pass.
By 17:00, arrive in Yen Minh Town for hotel check-in and some rest. The journey reveals dramatic limestone landscapes, valleys, and unique scenes of local life, with homes and farms built among rocky terrain. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and take a relaxing stroll around town.

Note: Jeep Tour/ Motorbike Tour are available based on your request.

Day 07: Yen Minh – Lung Cu – Dong Van – Meo Vac (B/L/D)

After breakfast and check-out at 07:00, continue exploring Ha Giang Province with stops at Tham Ma Pass, Lung Cam Cultural Village (Pao’s House), and Hmong King’s Palace. Visit Lung Cu Flag Tower and Lo Lo Chai Village to experience local culture and scenery.

Arrive at Dong Van Old Town around 12:30 for lunch and a short break. In the afternoon, enjoy panoramic views from Ma Pi Leng Pass and see the Nho Que River.

Reach Meo Vac Town by 17:00 for check-in at a homestay in Pa Vi Cultural Village, followed by dinner and a relaxing evening.

Day 08: Meo Vac – Me Pia Pass – Pac Bo – Cao Bang (B/L/D)

Begin your day at 07:00 with breakfast and check-out from your homestay, then continue the journey through Ha Giang Province. Travel through Meo Vac Town—where you can visit the vibrant highland ethnic market on Sunday mornings - and pass through Bao Lac Town. Conquer the scenic Me Pia Pass, also known as the 14-storey pass.

After lunch at a local restaurant around 12:30, continue to Pac Bo Historical Site. Here, explore notable landmarks including Le Nin Spring, Karl Marx Mountain, and Coc Bo Cave.

Arrive in Cao Bang City around 17:00 for check-in at a homestay. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, then spend the evening at leisure - on weekends, you can visit Kim Dong Walking Street. Overnight in Cao Bang.

Day 09: Cao Bang – Ban Gioc Waterfall (B/L/D)

After breakfast at 07:00, depart for Ban Gioc Waterfall, stopping at scenic viewpoints along the way. Enjoy time at the waterfall—one of Vietnam’s most impressive natural sights—with the option to take a boat ride and capture photos. Visit nearby Phat Tich Pagoda.
At 12:30, have lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Nguom Ngao Cave, known for its striking stalactites and stalagmites.
By 16:00, check in and relax at Ban Gioc. Dinner is served at 18:30, followed by a free evening to unwind or interact with the local community.

Day 10: Ban Gioc – Cao Bang City – Transfer to Hanoi (B/L)

7:00: Enjoy breakfast and check out. They will then board the vehicle to return to Cao Bang City. En route, the group will visit:
Explore the ancient rock village of Khuoi Ky. Take a leisurely stroll through the village, observing the unique architecture and immersing yourself in the local culture.
Thung Lung Nui Thung (Thung Mountain Valley or Eye of God Mountain).
Phuc Sen Blacksmith Village in Quang Uyen.
Stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Depart from Cao Bang City to rest and wait for the return journey to Hanoi.
In the afternoon, arrive at the Cao Bang city office and wait for the sharing Limousine bus to pick you up in Hanoi.
20:30: Arrive in Hanoi. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 11: Hanoi – Ha Long Bay/ Lan Ha Bay – Overnight Cruise (B/L/D)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and check out.
The journey begins with a transfer from Hanoi to either Ha Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay, where you board the cruise around midday. After a welcome drink and safety briefing, lunch is served while the boat sails through stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters.

In the afternoon, you will take part in signature activities such as visiting a cave, exploring hidden lagoons by kayak or bamboo boat, and possibly swimming in calm, scenic areas. Depending on the route, the cruise may also pass floating villages or quieter, less crowded spots. As the boat anchors for the night, you can relax on the sundeck and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

In the evening, a sunset party sets a relaxing tone, followed by a Vietnamese cooking demonstration and dinner onboard. You can then unwind with optional activities like squid fishing, socializing at the bar, or simply enjoying the tranquil night views over the bay.

Day 12: Ha Long Bay/Lan Ha Bay – Hanoi (B/L)

Start your morning early with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck or simply relax while watching the sunrise over the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay. Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee before heading out on a rowboat excursion to explore the bay’s hidden corners.
Brunch is served on board before disembarking at the pier.
Transfer back to Hanoi.
Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 13: Hanoi – Departure (B)

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. The rest of the day is free at your leisure until your scheduled transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
Tour ends!

Tour maps

Includes/Excludes

  • All transfers and quality air-conditioned vehicles
  • Accommodation at 3/4/5 star hotel or homestay as selected, including daily breakfast
  • Tours with local English-speaking guide
  • Meals as in the program (B/L/D as marked)
  • Entrance fees for destinations per itinerary
  • Kayaking and squid fishing (on cruise)
  • Boat in Ninh Binh
  • Two bottles of water per person per day on coach
  • International airfares
  • Drinks and meals not listed in the program
  • Vietnam visa
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses (telephone, shopping, etc.)
  • Tipping and gratuities
  • Single supplement
  • Early check-in and late check-out
  • Additional costs from events beyond operator control (natural disasters, flight changes, accidents, etc.)

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a visa to enter Vietnam?

- Most travelers need a visa to enter Vietnam. However, citizens of some countries can enjoy visa exemptions for short stays. You can apply for an e-Visa online, which is valid for up to 90 days for single or multiple entries. For more information, please visit https://evisa.gov.vn/
- To avoid last-minute issues, we strongly recommend applying for your visa as early as possible, especially during peak travel periods or public holidays.
- For urgent cases, we can assist with urgent visa processing and fast-track airport services upon request.

What are food options?

- We cater to diverse dietary needs, such as Halal, Indian, Western, vegan, and gluten-free, provided we are notified in advance.
- Special meal requests at select restaurants may involve additional fees based on local availability. Any extra costs will be communicated to you clearly for your approval.

What should I know before travelling? (Clothing, Power Outlets, Transport, Safety, Tips)

- Bring light, breathable clothing like cotton or linen for warm climates, and pack extra layers if visiting cooler or rainy regions. Comfortable shoes and a raincoat or umbrella are recommended.
- Vietnam uses Type A, C, and D plugs, with a standard voltage of 220V. It is advisable to carry a universal adapter to ensure the safe charging of your electronic devices.
- Vietnam is safe for tourists, including solo women, but watch out for pickpockets in crowds. Use taxi apps like Grab for affordable and safer city transport.
- The currency is Vietnamese Dong (VND). We recommend you carry some cash for small purchases such as street food or souvenirs.
- Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. If you do Private Tour, tipping fee should be 3 USD/pax/day.

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