True Beauty & Hidden Charms of Northern Vietnam

Upon arriving in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, you will be warmly welcomed by our Cali Travel guide and transferred to the hotel. After freshening up, visit Hoan Kiem Lake, known as Hanoi’s heart and soul, followed by a visit to Hanoi’s most visited temple – Ngoc Son Temple, which is located authentically on a delightful little island in the northern part of Hoan Kiem Lake, connected to the charming The Huc Bridge.

In the afternoon, take a “xich lo” ride through The Old Quarter to discover the 36 streets of this historic district and experience the real daily atmosphere life of Hanoians. At night, you will have an opportunity to enjoy the famous Water Puppet Show, a unique traditional art form that has existed for more than a thousand years. Overnight in Hanoi.

Leaving Ha Noi to Lao Cai – Sapa, where you will find the beauty of nature in deep valleys, endless mountains, streams, waterfalls, and the simple charm of ethnic minorities. After lunch, take a short trek to the most popular attraction in Sapa district – Cat Cat Village, situated under majestic Hoang Lien mountain range, to explore the Cat Cat Waterfalls and vestige of a hydroelectric power station that was constructed by the French during the colonial time in Vietnam, enjoy the breathtaking landscape of the green forest and the beautiful scenery along the way. Followed by a visit to Sapa Church – the most intact ancient French architecture in Sapa. Overnight in Sapa.

After breakfast, trek down the valley along the stream to Lao Chai Village, the most imposing landmark of Sapa. Lao Chai Village is home of Black H’mong, one of the biggest minority group in Sapa. Upon arrival, witness the terraced fields on the hillside stretching to endless, visit the local house to discover H’mong simple’s lifestyle, traditional customs, and also their unique culture.

Continue trekking through terraced rice fields to Ta Van Village, which is lying peacefully in the valley of Muong Hoa. Their population are mainly Giay and Red Dao…with approximately 1,000 people. The village has a rich cultural history and beautiful houses built of wood and bamboo with clay flooring located on rice paddies. In the afternoon, transfer back to Hanoi. Overnight in Hanoi.

Depart to Ha Long Bay – UNESCO World Heritage Site listed in 1994. Enjoy spectacular views of the Vietnamese countryside on route. Upon arrival, check into your private cabin on a luxury and comforting cruise, have lunch while traveling Ha Long Bay, where you can explore nearly 2,000 limestone islets of different shapes dotting the sea, traditional sampans and junks sailing the glinting waters, grottos, thick forests, and hidden coves. A variety of optional activities like kayaking, swimming, fishing, and diving will definitely add much more fun to your trip. At night, enjoy dinner while watching the beautiful sunset and spending a romantic night on board at one of seven nature wonders of the world. Overnight on board.

Continue exploring Ha Long Bay by sailing across its 2,000 islets and visiting some of its major highlights. On the way back to Hanoi in the afternoon, visit Dong Trieu Ceramic Village, one of the compulsory stops for local and foreign tourists, you can observe the local Vietnamese craftsmen making famous ceramic handicrafts. After lunch, transfer to the airport for your flight back home.