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12 Days Journey to Northern Vietnam from Ripe Rice Fields to Culture and Culinary Adventure

Ha Noi - Mu Cang Chai - Sa Pa - Lao Chai - Ninh Binh - Ha Long Bay

Lenght

12 Days – 11 Nights

TYPE

Culture, Culinary, Classic

WHEN

All Month

TRANS

Car

Experience the essence of Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and rich culture on this immersive journey. From the tranquil rice fields of Tu Le to the historic villages of Sa Pa and the vibrant streets of Hanoi, delve into the country’s fascinating history and traditions. Enjoy adventurous activities, cultural experiences, and relaxation, all complemented by carefully selected accommodations in central locations, ensuring an unforgettable and hassle-free exploration of Vietnam.

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 – Tu Le (B/L)

After breakfast, the group will depart for Tu Le, a destination promising delightful surprises for travelers. Tu Le is renowned for its abundant harvest seasons and famous rice grains in Vietnam.

You will stop for lunch in Nghia Lo.

In the afternoon, continue the journey to Tu Le, the land of terraced fields. If you visit Tu Le during the ripe rice season, you will be mesmerized by the golden hue of the fully ripe rice paddies, with the faint silhouette of girls working in the fields.

Upon arrival, check in to your accommodation. Enjoy free time to rest and immerse yourself in the wonderful atmosphere and rich scent of the ripe rice season.

Day 4: Tu Le Trekking (B/L)

In the early morning, travelers may choose to wake up early to admire the sunrise. As the sun rises from the hillside, casting its golden rays over the valley, mingling with the misty clouds gradually dissipating to make way for the fresh morning light. During the flood season or the ripe rice season, the sunrise will embellish the landscape of Tu Le.

Travelers can also visit the Lim Thai and Lim Mong villages, located 3 km from Tu Le, to learn more about the life and culture of the highland people.

Explore the Tien Nu Cave, and take a refreshing dip in the Nam Lung and Nam Hon streams amidst the fields of Tu Le.

In the evening, you are free to relax or enjoy a hot mineral bath to unwind and relieve stress.

Day 5: Tu Le – Mu Cang Chai – Sa Pa (B/L)

After breakfast at the hotel, the journey continues as the group travels through Khau Pha Pass – one of the most beautiful routes in Northwest Vietnam. Here, you can capture panoramic views of the majestic and breathtaking landscapes.

Continue the journey to admire the stunning terraced rice fields and enchanting scenery.

Lunch will be served in Mu Cang Chai.

Afterwards, the journey proceeds to Sa Pa.

Day 6: Fansipan Peak and Cat Cat Village Trekking (B/L)

Get ready for an amazing day in Sa Pa! Start with a delicious breakfast to fuel up. Then, it’s time for the highlight: conquering Fansipan Peak, the “Roof of Indochina,” via an exciting cable car ride. Take in breathtaking views as you ascend to new heights. 

Afterward, enjoy an international buffet amidst the stunning mountain landscape. Next, wander through downtown Sa Pa, soaking up the lively atmosphere and uncovering hidden treasures. 

Continue your adventure with a visit to Cat Cat Village, where you’ll experience local culture and craftsmanship in a picturesque setting. 

Wrap up the day with a leisurely dinner, whether you’re trying local dishes or exploring culinary delights on your own. Sa Pa offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and cultural charm.

Day 7 : Sa Pa – Lao Chai – Ta Van Village –  Hanoi (B/L)

07:30: Your vehicle and guide will transport you to the starting point, located 9-12 km from Sapa town. Embark on your trekking journey to immerse yourself in the life and customs of the local ethnic minority groups. Surrounding the villages are vast terraced rice fields, some dating back decades, cultivated tirelessly by the H’mong and Red Dao people, making them significant communities in Sapa’s tourism area. Nestled amidst the majestic Hoang Lien Son mountain range, these villages benefit from the protection of the Ham Rong mountain, attracting more residents to settle here over time.

After exploring, return to Sa Pa town for lunch before departing for Hanoi. 

Upon arrival in Hanoi, check into your hotel and enjoy some well-deserved rest and relaxation.

Day 8: Hanoi – Ninh Binh (B/L)

Embark on a culinary adventure in Hanoi, immersing yourself in the flavors of the city’s renowned “pho” and indulging in the unique experience of sipping special egg coffee at one of its oldest cafes.

Continue your journey 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 9: 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 10: 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 11: 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 12: 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.

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