...

11 Days Journey to Ripe Rice Season in Mai Chau – Pu Luong – Ninh Binh

Ha Noi - Vong Village - Mai Chau - Pu Luong - Ninh Binh - Ha Long Bay

Lenght

11 Days - 10 Nights

TYPE

Culture, Culinary, Classic

WHEN

All Month

TRANS

Car

Embark on an enchanting 11-day journey through the breathtaking landscapes of northern Vietnam during the vibrant ripe rice season. This meticulously crafted tour will take you to the heart of the country’s most picturesque regions: Mai Chau, Pu Luong, and Ninh Binh. Experience the harmony of nature and culture as you explore terraced rice fields, lush valleys, and serene waterways, all bathed in the golden hues of the harvest season.

Day 01: Welcome to Hanoi (D)

Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, our guide and vehicle will be waiting to warmly welcome you. You’ll then be transferred to your hotel for a smooth check-in process.

After some time to relax and refresh, immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Hanoi’s Old Quarter with a delightful cyclo tour. Explore iconic landmarks including Hoan Kiem Lake, Dong Xuan Market, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, and the Hanoi Opera House, soaking in the rich history and vibrant energy of the area.

Following your exploration, treat yourself to a rejuvenating 45-minute foot massage at a renowned spa in Hanoi, offering a perfect way to unwind after your journey.

Later in the evening, experience the traditional art of water puppetry with a captivating show. Afterward, delight in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, savoring authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

Conclude the day by returning to your hotel, where you can relax at your leisure and take in the lively night scene of Hanoi.

Day 02: Hanoi City Tour – Making “Cốm” (B/L)

Embark on your cultural journey in Hanoi with a visit to the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you’ll explore archaeological wonders including relics and artifacts dating back over 1000 years. Next, delve into Vietnam’s educational history at the Temple of Literature, the country’s first university. Gain insight into Vietnam’s wartime past at Hoa Lo Prison.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit Vong Village, renowned for its traditional craft of making Cốm, a delicacy made from young sticky rice that you cannot miss while in Hanoi. Join a Cốm-making class to learn the process from selecting the ingredients to achieving the finest results. Afterwards, indulge in the Cốm dish you’ve created.

Return to your hotel by vehicle. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure to unwind and relax.

Day 3: Hanoi to Mai Chau (B/L)

After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll depart for Mai Chau. 

Arrive at Ban Lac and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Embark on a trekking adventure through Ban Lac, traversing charming golden rice fields, and experiencing the delightful atmosphere of the ripe rice season. Immerse yourself in the local way of life, customs, and traditional crafts of the Thai ethnic minority here. Later, return to the hotel by car. 

You’ll have free time to relax and unwind.

Day 4: Mai Chau – Cycling Adventure (B/L)

Witness the stunning sunrise over village as you embark on an early morning cycling excursion through the charming Thai ethnic minority villages. Pedal through quaint Thai stilt houses adorned with simple yet elegant architecture, passing by lush green rice paddies exuding the fragrance of fresh crops.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, savoring authentic flavors of the region.

In the afternoon, your guide will lead you on a cycling tour to explore the Mai Chau valley. Visit small, picturesque Thai stilt houses to learn about their unique cultural traditions. Browse through local handicraft stalls, and even try your hand at traditional Thai weaving, purchasing souvenirs to commemorate your visit.

In the evening, immerse yourself in the captivating performances of Thai dancers and indulge in the sweet aroma of homemade rice wine, experiencing the warm hospitality of Mai Chau.

Day 5: Mai Chau – Pu Luong (B/L)

As the sun rises over Mai Chau, we embark on a journey to Ban Hang, a charming village nestled in the lush landscapes of Pu Luong. 

Along the way, soak in the beauty of the countryside, with emerald rice paddies stretching into the distance and colorful stilt houses dotting the landscape. Upon reaching Ban Hang, immerse yourself in local life, connecting with the friendly villagers who call this place home. Experience the simple joys of village living, from tending to crops to learning traditional crafts. 

After a delicious lunch of local specialties, our adventure continues to Pu Luong. As the sun sets, we arrive in this tranquil haven, embraced by majestic mountains and surrounded by untouched nature. Take a moment to unwind and soak in the serenity of this pristine wilderness.

Day 6: Pu Luong Discovery (B/L)

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before setting off on an exciting exploration to Hiêu Waterfall, a true hidden paradise in Pu Luong. Take your time to soak up the natural beauty and maybe even dip your toes in the refreshing waters.

After a delightful lunch by the waterfall, continue your trekking adventure to Ban Hiêu, a charming village surrounded by lush greenery. Get ready to be enchanted by the warm hospitality of the locals and the stunning scenery.

Wrap up the day with a leisurely return to the hotel, where you can unwind and recharge for more adventures ahead.

Day 7: Pu Luong – Ninh Binh (B/L)

Rise and shine to the gentle glow of sunrise over the village. After checking out, it’s time to continue our adventure.

We journey onward to Ninh Binh, where a delightful lunch awaits you at a local restaurant. Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking scenery of the ripe rice fields as you venture into the renowned Tam Coc Bich Dong area. Often likened to the “Halong Bay on Land,” this picturesque landscape features stunning limestone formations rising majestically from the emerald-green rice paddies.

Hop aboard a bamboo boat and meander along the serene Ngo Dong River, surrounded by the mesmerizing beauty of the rice fields and limestone karsts. Feel the tranquility wash over you as you glide past lush vegetation and towering cliffs, creating an enchanting backdrop for your journey.

After your exploration, retire to your hotel in Ninh Binh, where you’ll have the evening free to further immerse yourself in the charm of this unique region.

Day 8: Ninh Binh Bicycle Adventure (B/L)

Set off on an exhilarating bicycle excursion directly from your hotel to Hang Mua, a renowned vantage point offering sweeping vistas of the picturesque rice fields in Tam Coc. Ascend to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see, immersing yourself in the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Continue your cycling journey to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, where you’ll delve into its rich history and marvel at its distinctive architecture and ornate temples. Explore the fascinating remnants of this historical site, soaking in the ambiance of ancient Vietnam.

In the afternoon, pedal back to your hotel and unwind with some leisure time at your disposal. As the evening approaches, savor a delectable dinner at a venue of your choice before retiring to the comfort of your hotel for a restful night’s sleep.

Day 9: Ninh Binh  – Halong Bay (One of the New Seven Wonders of Nature) (B/L/D)

After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival, board a cruise and enjoy lunch as you sail through the mesmerizing limestone karsts of Halong Bay, passing iconic landmarks such as Fighting-Cock Islet and Titop Islet. Explore Trinh Nu Cave or kayak around the area. 

Participate in a cooking or fruit carving demonstration on the sundeck and witness the breathtaking sunset over Halong Bay. 

Enjoy a delectable dinner onboard, followed by leisure activities such as stargazing or squid fishing. Retire to your cabin for a restful sleep.

Day 10: Halong Bay – Hanoi (B/L)

Start your day with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck at sunrise, followed by a light breakfast. Explore Sung Sot Cave, the largest cave in Halong Bay, before enjoying brunch onboard as the boat cruises back to the port. 

Disembark and return to Hanoi. En route, make a stop at Tho Ha Village, a charming enclave renowned for its dedication to preserving Vietnam’s ancient customs and cultural heritage. Immerse yourself in the traditional way of life of the villagers as you explore the narrow alleys lined with ancient houses and communal spaces.

Upon arrival in Hanoi, enjoy free time and dinner on your own.

Day 11: Hanoi – Departure (B)

If time permits, you have the option to explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter at your leisure, indulging in your favorite dishes and enjoying some shopping. 

Later, our vehicle and guide will transfer you to the airport for your departure flight back home. End of the program.

  • Accommodation at specified 4-star hotels and resorts, including all taxes and breakfast.
  • Carefully selected meals as mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Domestic flights.
  • Private transportation in air-conditioned and luxury vehicles.
  • English-speaking guide.
  • All services and entrance fees mentioned in the program.
  • 01 balance massage upon arrival day.
  • Cyclo tour and cooking class if mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Luxury cruise on Ha Long Bay.
  • Mineral water during excursions: 2 bottles per person per day.
  • Personal expenses and beverages.
  • Visa stamp fees.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Airfares and airport taxes.
  • Any services not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Tipping.

Send booking request

*Please fill in the information below

Your Retreats

Experiences Relates

Find your experiences

Start Planning

Get notified about new articles

Your request has been sent.

*For any questions, you can contact us via our consulting email.

1

Contact Us