Ha Long Bay & Northern Vietnam Discovery – 6 Days 5 Nights

  • 6 Days
  • Maximum Capacity: 15
  • Adult

From $ 525.00 Per Adult

Description

Embark on a breathtaking journey through Northern Vietnam, where history, nature, and culture converge. From the bustling charm of Hanoi to the peaceful countryside of Ninh Binh, the ethnic beauty of Mai Chau, and the majestic waters of Halong Bay — this 6-day adventure offers a perfect balance of exploration and relaxation.

You’ll uncover ancient capitals, glide through limestone karsts on traditional boats, visit ethnic minority villages, and spend a night aboard a luxury cruise in one of the world’s most stunning bays. Ideal for those seeking authentic cultural experiences and natural wonders, this tour promises memories that last a lifetime.

Duration

6 Days

Tour Type

Adventure & Kayaking Tours, Budget Cruises, Family-Friendly Cruises, Honeymoon Cruises, Mid-range Cruises, Overnight Cruises

Group Size

7

Language

English, French

Popular Features

  • Air Conditioning
  • Eco-Friendly Cruise
  • Expressway Transfer
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Full-board Meals
  • Hotel Pickup & Drop-off
  • International Dishes
  • Meals Included
  • Morning Tai Chi
  • Private Car Transfer
  • Round-trip Transfer Included
  • Safety Guarantee
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Vietnamese Cuisine
Highlights Icon

Highlights

  • Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum & Temple of Literature
  • Discover Hoa Lu – the ancient capital of Vietnam
  • Enjoy a sampan boat ride through Tam Coc’s limestone landscape
  • Immerse in ethnic Thai culture in Mai Chau and join a local dance performance
  • Cycle through peaceful rice paddies and village paths
  • Overnight on a luxury cruise in Halong Bay with onboard activities
  • Visit limestone caves and enjoy kayaking or swimming in the bay

Included

  • Accommodation in twin/double room with daily breakfast at the below-indicated room types (see hotel category list below) (check-in and check-out around noontime)
  • 2Days/1Night cruise on board a cruise in Ha Long Bay (double/twin cabin on shared boat).
  • Services of a driver and private air-conditioned vehicle during all tours and transfers.
  • Experienced English-speaking guide during the day tour.
  • Entrance fees for all visits as mentioned in the itinerary
  • 04 Lunches
  • 1 Dinner
  • 01 bottles of mineral water per person per day on days of sightseeing.

Excluded

  • Early check-in or late check-out
  • Domestic/ International flight tickets
  • Meals (other than mentioned in the program)
  • Additional transfer required due to any emergency situation
  • Visa - as per country requirements
  • Offering tips and expressing gratitude for guides and drivers
  • Travel insurance (we highly recommend that you purchase adequate insurance)
  • Optional excursions and activities

Travel Itinerary

DAY 1 - ARRIVAL IN HANOI - HALF DAY CITY TOUR

Welcome to Hanoi, the vibrant capital city of Vietnam! Upon your arrival at the airport, you will be warmly greeted by our friendly tour guide, who will assist you with luggage and transfer you comfortably to the hotel for check-in and a short rest after your flight.
Your journey of discovery begins with a visit to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum — an iconic landmark and a symbol of Vietnam’s deep respect for its national hero, President Ho Chi Minh. From Ba Dinh Square, you can admire the solemn and majestic exterior of the Mausoleum while learning about its historical significance.
Next, continue to the Temple of Literature, the country’s first university, founded in 1070, dedicated to Confucius and scholars. This beautiful complex is a peaceful haven in the heart of the city, showcasing traditional Vietnamese architecture and the nation’s long-standing reverence for education and culture.
Afterward, enjoy a leisurely drive around Hoan Kiem Lake, one of Hanoi’s most picturesque spots, known for its tranquil waters and the legendary Turtle Tower at its center. Conclude your day with an exploration of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where narrow winding streets, lively markets, and traditional shop-houses paint a vivid picture of the city’s past and present. Stroll through this bustling maze to experience the authentic rhythm of local life.
Overnight in Hanoi.

DAY 2 - HANOI – HOA LU TAM COC – NINH BINH [B/L]

After breakfast at the hotel, depart from Hanoi for a scenic drive to Ninh Binh, a charming province in northern Vietnam often called “Halong Bay on land” for its breathtaking limestone landscapes and tranquil waterways.
Your first destination is Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam during the 10th century, when the Dinh and Le dynasties ruled the country. Explore the temples dedicated to Kings Dinh and Le, which reflect the rich history, culture, and architectural craftsmanship of the era.
Continue your journey to Tam Coc Wharf, where you will embark on a peaceful sampan boat ride lasting about 90 minutes. Glide gently along the Ngo Dong River, surrounded by towering limestone mountains, lush rice fields, and enchanting caves that create a picture-perfect natural setting.
Take time to relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the countryside, listening to the gentle sounds of nature and observing local life along the riverbanks.
Overnight in Ninh Binh.

DAY 3 - NINH BINH – MAI CHAU HIDEAWAY [B/L]

After breakfast, depart from Ninh Binh and journey toward Mai Chau, a picturesque valley nestled amidst rolling green mountains and home to the friendly White Thai ethnic community. Along the way, make a stop for a light hike through a serene bamboo forest, where you can breathe in the fresh mountain air and take in the rustic charm of northern Vietnam’s countryside.
Upon arrival, check in at the Mai Chau Hideaway Resort, beautifully set on the shores of the Da River. This tranquil retreat offers stunning views of limestone peaks rising from emerald waters — often called the “mountain version of Halong Bay.”
In the afternoon, enjoy a peaceful boat trip on the Da River to Ngoi Hoa Bay, a hidden gem surrounded by pristine landscapes and calm waters. Visit nearby Muong and Dao ethnic villages, where you’ll have the chance to observe traditional stilt houses, colorful handmade textiles, and daily life that reflects centuries-old customs and hospitality.
End the day with a delicious dinner featuring local specialties and unwind in the peaceful ambiance of the valley.
Overnight at Mai Chau Hideaway.

DAY 4 - MAI CHAU – HANOI [B/L]

After breakfast, set out to explore the nearby Go Lao Waterfall, a secluded natural treasure nestled amid verdant hills and tropical vegetation. The gentle sound of cascading water and the surrounding greenery create a refreshing retreat, perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility.
Return to the resort to relax and enjoy the peaceful ambiance by the Da River before having lunch. In the afternoon, continue your cultural exploration with a visit to Van Village, an authentic settlement of the Thai ethnic group. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about their daily life, farming practices, and traditional weaving techniques, which have been passed down through generations. Observe how locals craft beautiful textiles by hand, reflecting both their creativity and connection to nature.
Later in the day, bid farewell to the serene mountains of Mai Chau as you transfer back to Hanoi, enjoying the scenic drive through the lush countryside.
Overnight in Hanoi.

DAY 5 - HANOI – HALONG BAY - NIGHT ON CRUISE IN HALONG BAY [B/L/D]

After breakfast, depart from Hanoi for the scenic drive to Ha Long Bay, one of Vietnam’s most magnificent natural wonders and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the way, admire the peaceful countryside landscapes of the Red River Delta, dotted with green rice fields and small villages.
Upon arrival at the pier, board your luxury cruise and receive a warm welcome from the friendly crew with a refreshing drink as you settle into your comfortable cabin. Soon after, the cruise begins its journey through the breathtaking bay, gliding past thousands of towering limestone karsts and emerald waters that create one of the most iconic seascapes in the world.
During the day, explore beautiful caves formed over millions of years, or join optional activities such as kayaking through hidden lagoons or swimming in crystal-clear waters. A sumptuous lunch and dinner featuring freshly caught local seafood will be served on board while you enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the bay.
As evening falls, unwind with a series of fun onboard activities, including:
● A sunset party on the sundeck with breathtaking views
● A Vietnamese cooking demonstration led by the ship’s chef
● An optional squid fishing experience under the starlit sky
End your memorable day by relaxing in your cozy ocean-view cabin, lulled to sleep by the gentle rhythm of the waves.
Overnight on cruise.

DAY 6 - HALONG BAY – HANOI – DEPARTURE [B]

Begin your morning with a peaceful Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the sun rises over the limestone peaks — a serene way to awaken your mind and body while taking in the magical beauty of Ha Long Bay. Afterward, enjoy a light breakfast with coffee or tea as the cruise gently sails through more stunning corners of the bay.
Continue your exploration with a visit to another scenic area or hidden cave, or opt for a bamboo boat ride rowed by local villagers — a perfect opportunity to experience the quiet charm of the bay up close and capture your final photos of this breathtaking landscape.
As the cruise slowly returns to the harbor, savor a final brunch or refreshment before disembarking. Your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to Hanoi, where you’ll proceed to the airport for your evening departure flight.
End of services. Thank you for traveling with us — we hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back to Vietnam again soon!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is included in the tour price?

The package includes accommodation, daily breakfast, transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, entrance fees, English-speaking guide, and meals as mentioned in the itinerary. The Ha Long Bay cruise with full board and activities is also included.

2. What is not included in the tour price?

The price excludes international and domestic flights, travel insurance, beverages, personal expenses, tips for guide and driver, and any services not clearly mentioned in the itinerary.

3. What kind of accommodation is provided?

You will stay in comfortable 3-star hotels in Hanoi, Ninh Binh, and Mai Chau, and enjoy an overnight stay on a 3-star Ha Long Bay cruise. Upgrades to 4-5-star options are available upon request.

4. Is this tour suitable for families or elderly travelers?

Yes, this is a leisurely-paced tour suitable for families, couples, and senior travelers. Activities like light hiking, bamboo boat rides, and short walks are optional and flexible according to your preference.

5. Can I request vegetarian or special meals?

Absolutely. Please inform us in advance of any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free meals. The cruise and hotels can cater to your needs with prior notice.

6. What should I bring for the trip?

Light, comfortable clothing; walking shoes; sunscreen; insect repellent; a hat; swimwear for Ha Long Bay; and a light jacket for cooler evenings in the mountains.

7. When is the best time to join this tour?

The best months are from October to April, when the weather in northern Vietnam is cool, dry, and pleasant. However, the tour operates year-round, with each season offering its own charm.

8. How long is the drive from Hanoi to each destination?

  • Hanoi → Ninh Binh: about 2 hours

  • Ninh Binh → Mai Chau: about 3.5 hours

  • Mai Chau → Ha Long Bay: about 5–6 hours

9. Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?

Free Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and on the Ha Long Bay cruise, though signal strength in remote areas may be limited.

10. Can I extend or shorten the tour?

Yes, the itinerary is flexible. We can customize the tour based on your travel dates, budget, or interests—just let us know your preferences when booking.

From $ 525.00

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