Essentie van Noord-Vietnam: Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong & Sapa (4D3N)

06:30 | Breakfast & Check-out

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, then check out and prepare for the next leg of your journey.

­ 

07:00 – 07:20 | Depart for Ha Long Bay

Our driver and guide will pick you up for a scenic drive to the world-renowned Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

­ 

11:00 – 11:15 | Arrive in Ha Long Bay

Take a short break upon arrival as you get ready to board your cruise.

­ 

12:00 | Welcome Aboard – Begin Your Cruise Adventure

Board the cruise and receive a short safety briefing. Then, embark on a 5-hour journey through the breathtaking bay. Sail past countless limestone islets with unique names like Fighting Cocks, Incense Burner, and Thumb Islet, while enjoying a freshly prepared Vietnamese lunch on board.

­ 

13:45 – 14:00 | Explore the Heart of the Bay

• Surprising Cave (Sung Sot Cave) – Marvel at the incredible formations of stalactites and stalagmites, shaped like sea creatures and mythical beings.
• Luon Cave – Discover a tranquil lagoon by kayak or bamboo boat, surrounded by towering cliffs and emerald waters.
• Titop Island – Relax on the sandy beach or challenge yourself with a hike up Titop Peak for a panoramic view of the bay — a sight not to be missed.

16:30 | Cruise Back to Harbor

Enjoy leisure time sunbathing on the sundeck, taking photos, or simply relaxing to music as the cruise slowly returns. It's a great moment to share stories with fellow travelers while soaking in the stunning seascape.

­ 

17:30 – 18:00 | Disembark & Return to Hanoi

Transfer by bus back to Hanoi. There will be a short rest stop along the way.

­ 

20:30 – 21:00 | Arrive in Hanoi & Dinner

Return to the capital and enjoy a casual dinner before preparing for your overnight journey to the mountains.

­ 

22:00 | Overnight Bus to Sapa

Board a comfortable sleeper bus for your overnight trip to Sapa, the charming highland town in northern Vietnam.

Overnight on Sleeping Bus - optional upgrade to Cabin Bus (pictures in description)

Overnight in Ta Van Village (Bungalow)

06:00 | Arrive in Sapa

Reach Sapa Town, where you’ll be greeted by the vibrant sights of ethnic locals in their colorful traditional attire — including the H’mong, Dzao, and Tay people. Wait briefly at the bus station before being picked up by your guide and driver. Enjoy breakfast at a local restaurant.

08:30 | Begin Your Scenic Trek

Start your adventure with a trek through Y Linh Ho, continuing along the picturesque Muong Hoa Stream and lush rice terraces. Pass through the Black Hmong village of Lao Chai and admire the breathtaking views of the Hoang Lien Son Mountain range.

Your journey continues toward Ta Van Village, home to the Giay ethnic group.

Trekking distance: 9–12 km | Duration: ~3.5 hours

12:30 – 13:00 | Arrive at Homestay & Lunch

Check in at a cozy homestay bungalow hosted by a local Dzay family. Savor a home-cooked lunch featuring local flavors, then take time to relax and immerse yourself in the tranquil rhythm of mountain life.

Afternoon | Free Time to Explore

Wander around Ta Van Village at your own pace — take photos, meet locals, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Evening | Local Dinner & Cultural Vibes

Optional: Join your host family to prepare traditional dishes and enjoy a heartwarming dinner together.

Afterward, unwind at a nearby bar with music and the chance to mingle with fellow travelers.

Overnight in a private bungalow, surrounded by nature.

08:00 | Breakfast & New Day of Adventure

Enjoy a homemade breakfast prepared by your host family before setting off on another exciting trek.

­ 

08:45 | Trek to Rice Paddies & Bamboo Forest

Hike through scenic rice paddies, capturing stunning photos of the surrounding landscapes. Continue your journey through a serene bamboo forest, and take a break to admire the panoramic view of Giang Ta Chai village, home to the Red Dzao people.

­ 

Trekking distance: 4 km |  Duration: ~2 hours

­ 

11:00 | Cross Giang Ta Chai Bridge

Trek across the Giang Ta Chai Bridge and make your way toward the main road to meet the bus.

­ 

12:00 | Return to the Bungalow & Shower

Arrive back at your bungalow for some relaxation, a refreshing shower, and time to prepare for lunch.

­ 

12:30 – 13:30 | Lunch at the Homestay

Enjoy a delicious lunch with your host family, savoring the flavors of the region.

­ 

13:30 | Depart for Sapa Town

The bus will pick you up for the journey back to Sapa Town.

­ 

15:00 – 15:30 | Return Journey to Hanoi

Board the bus to return to Hanoi, with two rest stops along the way to ensure a comfortable journey.

­ 

21:30 – 22:00 | Arrive in Hanoi

Arrive in Hanoi and disembark at 166 Tran Quang Khai. End of the tour.