Ultimate Northern Vietnam Experience (New Route Mai Chau)

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Ultimate Northern Vietnam Experience (New Route Mai Chau)

All Photo

Duration

5 Days - 4 Nights

Language

Tour Type

Victoria Exclusive

from

$830 pp

based on 2 people sharing

Explore the highlights of Northern Vietnam by land, sea and air, visiting magical Halong Bay and the cool highlands of Mai Chau, famed for its mesmerising terraced rice fields.

Highlight

Hiking Mai Chau's hills and valleys
Boutique overnight cruise in Halong Bay

Inclusions

Accommodation is based on a shared Double room including breakfast unless otherwise mentioned
Local English-speaking guide (supplements may apply for other languages and group national guides)
Tours and transfers as mentioned by private air-conditioned vehicle unless stated otherwise Transfers as mentioned
Entrance fees for mentioned visits
Service charge and current government VAT/GST tax
Check-in time is usually 2pm and check-out time is 12pm for Asia. This is subject to individual hotel regulations. Early or late service is subject to availability, often with a surcharge.

Exclusions

Peak season surcharge (to be confirmed at the time of booking)
Visa (we can help with visa on arrival in certain destinations upon request)
Services and meals not mentioned in the itinerary
All drinks; including water, soft drinks and alcohol
Early/late check-in/out service at hotels (surcharge if requested)
Optional excursion/tours
International and Domestic Flights unless mentioned
Laundry, telephone calls and expenditure of a personal nature
Tips and gratuities
Travel insurance
Camera/video entrance fees

Travel from the city to the peace of the valley, then take a scenic walk through one of Vietnam’s most culturally rich rural landscapes.

Depart Hanoi in the morning for Mai Chau, a tranquil valley surrounded by rice paddies and limestone hills. After arrival and check-in, set out on a two-hour guided walk through nearby White Thai villages. Stroll past stilt houses, weaving looms, and lush fields, gaining insight into the customs and daily life of the local community. There may also be an opportunity to visit a family home for a deeper cultural exchange.

Please note: The walking tour covers approximately 3-5 km on foot starting around 3:30 PM. Sturdy footwear is recommended.

Meal: Nil
Accommodation: Mai Chau Lodge (Deluxe Mountain View) or similar

Experience the authentic charm of Mai Chau with our trekking tour, beginning with a scenic transfer to Mai Hich Village, where you’ll stroll along train tracks and village roads, immersing yourself in the local Thai minority life.

Explore the Ngoa and Xam Khoe minority villages, gaining insight into their traditional way of life, before visiting a local’s home for a refreshing cup of tea and further cultural exchange. Conclude your enriching journey by returning to your hotel, having discovered the beauty and simplicity of rural Mai Chau.

Please note: The tour starts at 08:00 AM or 01:30 PM, finishing at 12:00 PM or 05:30 PM, covering 6km of hiking. Wear sturdy walking shoes.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Mai Chau Lodge (Deluxe Mountain View) or similar

Journey from the mountains to the lowlands, uncovering ancient citadels, pagodas, and peaceful waterways along the way.

Depart Mai Chau for Ninh Binh, heading first to Bich Dong Pagoda, a serene temple complex nestled against a limestone mountain and reached by a graceful stone bridge. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful boat ride through Thung Nham Bird Valley, drifting past flooded forests and karst cliffs as flocks of birds return to roost in the golden light of dusk.

Please note: Modest dress is required for pagoda visits.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh (Superior) or similar

Discover the beauty of Halong Bay by air and sea on this unforgettable journey through one of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes.

Depart Hanoi in the morning for Halong Bay, where you’ll board the elegant Emeraude Classic Cruise and be greeted with a welcome drink. Sail through the UNESCO-listed bay, enjoying a buffet lunch on board while gliding past towering limestone karsts. In the afternoon, stop at Ti Top Island for a swim or short hike, or simply relax on deck with French-style crêpes. Optional kayaking and squid fishing are available before sunset, canapés and dinner on board. For those seeking an elevated experience, begin your journey with an optional scenic 25-minute seaplane flight from Hanoi to Halong Bay with Hai Au Aviation, offering panoramic views of nearly 2,000 limestone islets scattered across emerald waters, a breathtaking introduction to the bay’s grandeur.

Please note: Cruise pick-up is at 8:00 am. The actual pick-up time may vary. We may need to offer alternative vessels depending on availability.
Seaplane flight is optional and requires advance booking. Weight restrictions apply (7kg luggage limit, surcharge for passengers over 111 kg). Valid passport required for boarding. Minimum of 4 passengers per flight. Flights are subject to weather conditions and may be rescheduled or cancelled accordingly.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Emeraude Classic Cruise (2D1N Superior) or similar

Begin your day with sunrise yoga or Taichi and discover the natural wonders of Halong Bay before continuing your journey to Hanoi.

Start with tea, coffee, and light cakes on deck, followed by a calming yoga session surrounded by limestone peaks. Visit Sung Sot Cave for a guided walk through one of the bay’s most impressive caverns, then return to the ship for a leisurely brunch while soaking in the final views of Halong Bay. Disembark late morning and transfer to the capital.

Please note: The cruise may be cancelled in adverse weather conditions. Kayak hire is available at an additional charge.

Meal: Breakfast, Brunch
Accommodation: Nil