North Vietnam off The Beaten Track Itinerary Tour 17 Days 16 Nights
NVN-17D
17 days 16 nights
Hanoi
Hanoi
Hanoi - Thác Bà Lake - Mù Cang Chải (La Pán Tẩn terraced fields) - Sapa (Y Linh Ho Village - Lao Chai Village - Ta Van Village) - Bắc Hà - Hà Giang (Tha village - Lùng Tám - Palace Of The H'Mong King Vương Chí Sình - Đồng Văn - Mã Pì Lèng Pass - Mèo Vạc) - Hanoi - Halong Bay
Highlights
Discover the captivating landscapes of Northern Vietnam off The Beaten Track on this thrilling hiking adventure. Traverse mountainous roads, immerse yourself in the local culture, and experience the charm of homestays in remote villages. Meet friendly ethnic minority groups, including the Hmongs, Red Daos, and Thais. End your journey with a cruise through the stunning Halong Bay, surrounded by iconic sugarloaf-shaped rocks and turquoise waters.
Key Destinations of North Vietnam off The Beaten Track Itinerary 17 Days:
- Hanoi: Explore the capital's rich history and vibrant culture, visiting landmarks like Hoan Kiem Lake, Long Bien Bridge, and the Old Quarter.
- Thac Ba Lake: Enjoy boat tours, kayaking, and homestays in ethnic minority villages around this lush, island-dotted man-made lake.
- Mù Cang Chải: Marvel at terraced rice fields and experience the traditional lifestyles of Vietnam's ethnic communities.
- Sapa: Trek through breathtaking rice terraces and ethnic minority villages, including a hike to Fansipan, Indochina's highest peak.
- Bac Ha Market: Discover a colorful array of goods and vibrant cultures at this lively market, particularly the Flower Hmong people.
- Hà Giang: Experience stunning scenery and rich cultural heritage in this remote northern province.
- Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark: Explore this UNESCO Global Geopark, known for its spectacular karst landscapes and cultural significance.
- Ma Pi Leng Pass: Admire the breathtaking views of the Nho Que River and surrounding mountains from this stunning mountain pass.
- Halong Bay: Cruise through emerald waters and limestone islands in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, enjoying activities like kayaking and overnight junk boat stays.
Itinerary Expand All
Upon arrival in Hanoi, you will be greeted by your guide and driver and taken directly to a downtown massage salon. Enjoy an oriental oil massage to rejuvenate and eliminate fatigue after your flight. Dinner is at your leisure. Overnight stay at your hotel in Hanoi.
Note: Check-in time is generally at 2:00 PM.
After breakfast, start your day with a visit to the square in front of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Your guide will share the history of Vietnam's independence before you take memorable photos. Next, visit the Defense Pagoda by West Lake and then the Hanoi Ethnology Museum to learn about Vietnam's diverse ethnic cultures.
Enjoy lunch at a local eatery.
In the afternoon, take a fascinating stroll through the Hanoi Old Quarter. Begin at Long Bien Bridge and proceed to Cao Thắng Street, known for its traditional spices. Explore Đồng Xuân Market and the vibrant Hàng Mã Street, famous for its decorative items, toys, and lanterns. Continue to Lương Văn Can, Lãn Ông, and Hang Buồm streets, and visit Bạch Mã Temple, the oldest in Hanoi.
Take a break at a boutique café such as Hanoi Coffee Station for a complimentary coffee. Capture the lively atmosphere around Hoan Kiem Lake before attending a mesmerizing water puppet show in the evening.
Dinner is on your own, followed by an overnight stay at your hotel in Hanoi.
After breakfast, embark on a journey to Thác Bà Lake, arriving around noon. Surrounded by palm trees and ethnic villages, you'll settle into a traditional stilt house in the White Trouser Dao ethnic community, experiencing the village's rustic charm and warm hospitality.
Visit Ngoi Tu Cultural Village to learn about the lives and cultures of the Dao and Tay people. Explore Thác Bà Hydroelectric Plant, one of Vietnam's first hydroelectric plants, and understand its historical significance.
Enjoy a peaceful night in a stilt house, soaking in the tranquil ambiance and authentic cultural experience of Thác Bà Lake.
Dinner and overnight stay at a homestay or bungalow, depending on your budget.
Morning:
Early Breakfast: Start with a hearty breakfast.
Trekking: Explore nearby forested areas, enjoying the rich biodiversity and fresh air.
Thuy Tien Cave: Visit this off-the-beaten-path cave, known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites, adding a sense of adventure.
Afternoon:
Lunch: Return to your accommodation for lunch and a short rest.
Lake Activities: Continue exploring Thác Bà Lake with activities like kayaking or fishing. Visit secluded islands for a peaceful retreat.
Hoang Lien Son Viewpoint: Head to a viewpoint for a panoramic view of Thác Bà Lake and its surroundings.
Evening:
Dinner and Overnight: Stay at a homestay or bungalow, depending on your budget.
Morning:
Departure: Leave around 8:30 AM after breakfast, heading to Mù Cang Chải.
Tea Plantation: Stop briefly at a green tea plantation.
Midday:
Tu Le Valley: Take a one-hour walk amidst the rice fields and Thai villages.
Lunch: Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Khau Pha Pass: Stop for panoramic views of the terraced rice fields, recognized as a national heritage site.
Photo Stops: Several stops along the way to capture the best viewpoints, especially in La Pan Tan valley.
Evening:
Arrival in Mù Cang Chải: Arrive by late afternoon. Spend the night in a traditional stilt house with a local family.
Dinner and Overnight: Stay at a homestay or bungalow, depending on your budget.
Morning:
Breakfast: Start early with a hearty breakfast.
Trek to La Pan Tan: Begin your trek from Mù Cang Chải town towards La Pan Tan terraced fields. Enjoy lush landscapes, local villages, and stunning rice terraces.
Midday:
Photo Break: Capture the breathtaking scenery at the first viewpoint of La Pan Tan.
Continue Trekking: Visit local H’mong villages, learning about their traditional farming methods and daily life.
Lunch Break: Enjoy lunch at a local homestay or designated picnic area. Rest and rehydrate.
Afternoon:
Trek to Mam Xoi Viewpoint: Continue to the Mam Xoi viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the surrounding terraced fields.
Mam Xoi Viewpoint: Spend time taking in the stunning views and capturing photos.
Evening:
Return: Head back to your accommodation to freshen up and rest.
Dinner and Overnight: Stay at a homestay or bungalow, depending on your budget.
Morning:
Departure: After breakfast, head to Sapa.
O Quy Ho Pass: Pass through the O Quy Ho pass, part of the majestic Hoang Lien Son mountain range. Enjoy stunning views of Sapa valleys and reach Heaven's Gate at 1900m altitude.
Afternoon:
Free Time: Enjoy free time in Sapa town to explore on your own.
Meals: Meals are on your own.
Evening:
Overnight: Stay in Sapa.
Morning:
Breakfast: Start with a hearty breakfast.
Trekking: Head towards Lao Chai village via Y Linh Ho village, immersing yourself in the local culture and scenic beauty.
Midday:
Lunch: Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant in Lao Chai village.
Afternoon:
Trek to Ta Van: Continue your trek to Ta Van village. Stroll through the picturesque surroundings, observing the traditional lifestyle of the locals.
Evening:
Dinner: Dinner on your own.
Overnight: Stay at a homestay or bungalow, depending on your budget.
Morning:
Breakfast: Enjoy a hearty breakfast.
Departure: Leave Sapa and head towards Bac Ha, passing through mountainous regions near the Chinese border.
Midday:
H'mong Villages: Walk through Ban Pho 1 and Ban Pho 2 villages, known for their delicious corn alcohol.
Lunch: Lunch on your own.
Afternoon/Evening:
Arrival in Bac Ha: Stay with a Tay family in their traditional stilt house.
Dinner: Enjoy dinner and homemade rice wine in a warm atmosphere.
Overnight: Stay at a homestay or hotel, depending on your budget.
Morning:
Market Visit: Visit a vibrant weekly market. The market location varies: Coc Ly (Tuesday), Sin Cheng (Wednesday), Cao Son or Can Cau (Saturday), and Bac Ha (Sunday). Meet various ethnic groups and explore the market's sections with goods like food, fabrics, and livestock.
Midday:
Lunch: Free lunch at a restaurant in Bac Ha.
Afternoon:
Ngai Phu Cho: Transfer to Ngai Phu Cho, inhabited by the Phu La ethnic group, and enjoy a two-hour walk with views of terraced rice fields.
Return to Bac Ha: Relax and rest for the night.
Evening:
Meals: Dinner on your own.
Overnight: Stay in Bac Ha.
Morning:
Breakfast: Start with breakfast.
Hoang A Tuong Palace: Short visit before leaving Bac Ha.
Midday:
Journey to Ha Giang: Travel through lush landscapes, rice terraces, and charming villages.
Afternoon:
Tha Village: Arrive at Tha village, home to the Tay ethnic group. Discover local farmers' daily life with a short walk.
Evening:
Dinner: Enjoy dinner with a local family.
Overnight: Stay in a homestay with showers and hot water.
Morning:
Gate of Heaven: Ascend a grand pass to Đồng Văn Geological Park for panoramic views of the karst landscapes.
Lùng Tám: Visit the brocade weaving village.
Midday:
Lunch: Lunch on your own.
Afternoon:
Sủng Là: Stop in Sủng Là to visit a traditional house and walk through H’Mong and colorful Lo Lo villages.
H'Mong King's Palace: Visit the unique Palace of the H'Mong King Vương Chí Sình, made of plateau stones.
Evening:
Arrival in Đồng Văn: Several stops to admire karst rocks on the way.
Meals on your own.
Overnight: Stay at a hotel in Đồng Văn.
Morning:
Happiness Road: Journey along the "Happiness Road" from Đồng Văn to Mèo Vạc (25 km). If time allows, enjoy a cruise on the Nho Quế River from Tu Sản alley.
Midday:
Local Villages: Visit Pả Vi village and other local villages, immersing in the rich culture. Have lunch on your own in Mèo Vạc at a traditional restaurant.
Afternoon:
Return to Ha Giang Town: Begin the journey back to Ha Giang Town, cherishing the memories of the northern region.
Evening:
Meals on your own.
Overnight: Stay at a hotel in Ha Giang.
Morning:
Departure: After breakfast, return to Hanoi.
Afternoon:
Arrival in Hanoi: Check into your hotel.
Evening:
Meals on your own.
Overnight: Stay at a hotel in Hanoi.
Morning:
Departure: Pick up from your hotel at 8 AM and transfer to Halong Bay.
Midday:
Boarding: Board the boat at Tuan Chau Port around noon. Enjoy a welcome drink, cruise briefing, and a deluxe Vietnamese set menu lunch.
Afternoon:
Cruising: Explore Halong Bay's serene areas including Incense Burner, Dog Stone Islet, Fighting Cock, and Finger Islet. Visit Surprise Cave (Hang Sửng Sốt).
Evening:
Activities: Attend a fruit and vegetable carving lesson. Enjoy dinner with fresh seafood, followed by activities such as board games or squid fishing.
Overnight: Stay on the boat.
Morning:
Optional Activities: Wake up early for coffee, tea, and pastries. Participate in a Tai Chi lesson on the sundeck at 6:45 AM.
Titov Island: Visit Titov Island, climb to the peak for a panoramic view or relax on the beach.
Midday:
Breakfast: Full breakfast served on the boat. Settle bills and prepare for disembarkation.
Return to Hanoi: Arrive at Tuan Chau port at 11 AM and transfer back to Hanoi.
Evening:
Meals: Dinner on your own.
Overnight: Stay at a hotel in Hanoi.
Leisure Time: Enjoy breakfast and leisure time before your airport transfer.
Departure: Head to the airport for your flight back home. Meals are on your own discretion.
End of the North Vietnam off The Beaten Track Itinerary !
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What’s Inclusion
- Accommodation with daily breakfast in hotel, bungalow or homestay.
- Overnight cruise on board a shared good-quality boat in Halong Bay (private boat upon request).
- Sampan for a small cruise.
- Private air-conditioned vehicle during all tours and transfers.
- English-speaking guide during all tours.
- Entrance fees for all visits as mentioned in the itinerary
- Lunch or dinner as specified in the itinerary
- Water & cool towels
- Government taxes & service charge
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What’s Excluded
- International airfare and departure taxes
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone, drinks, tips… etc.
- Personal travel insurance.
- Vietnam Visa (If you are not exempt from the visa).
- All other services not specified in the itinerary
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Notes
- Surcharged for Public holidays (30/4-1/5, Lunar New Year)
- The timing of check-in and check-out at the hotels: Check-in at 14:00, check-out at 12:00. (Early check-in/late check-out is upon your request).
- A single supplement is required if you are traveling alone.
- The triple room is possible upon your request.
Real Customer Experiences
Customer Reviews
It is a long established fact that a reader will be distracted by the readable
Excellent
106 reviews
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5.0 Excellent
truly connecting with local culture
This 17-day journey across Vietnam off the beaten track was spectacular. From the peaceful cruise on Thác Bà Lake to the stunning terraced fields of Mù Cang Chải, we were captivated every day. The highlight for me was the incredible trekking through Sapa villages, truly connecting with local culture. -
5.0 Excellent
a magical experience
Our trip off the beaten path Vietnam was beyond our expectations! Each destination had its own unique charm. The landscape in Mù Cang Chải was stunning, and the trek through Sapa's villages made us feel deeply connected to the local communities. Hà Giang, with its winding roads through Mã Pì Lèng Pass, was simply breathtaking. Staying overnight on a boat in Halong Bay was a perfect ending, providing a serene and magical experience. Traveling with friends on this route meant laughter and support every step of the way. This tour left us with unforgettable memories. -
5.0 Excellent
Vietnam we had never seen before
The 17-day "off the beaten track north Vietnam" tour was a remarkable experience for our group of friends. We began in Hanoi, but the real magic started at Thác Bà Lake with a peaceful sampan cruise. Mù Cang Chải's La Pán Tẩn terraced fields felt like a dreamscape—they were even more beautiful in person! The trek in Sapa was challenging but incredibly rewarding; Y Linh Ho, Lao Chai, and Ta Van offered glimpses of authentic local life. Hà Giang left us speechless, from the Tha village and the fascinating H'Mong King Palace to the jaw-dropping beauty of the Mã Pì Lèng Pass. ..View More
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