Ultimate Northern Vietnam Experience

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Ultimate Northern Vietnam Experience

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Duration

5 Days - 4 Nights

Language

Tour Type

Victoria Exclusive

from

$750 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 Sapa, famed for its mesmerising terraced rice fields.

Highlight

Vintage train journey to Lao Cai (Sapa)
Hiking Sapa’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
Activities as outlined in the itinerary
Return overnight train Hanoi - Lao Cai
Hanoi (4 shared cabin)
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 insuranc
Camera/video entrance fees

Experience the romance of rail travel as you journey overnight from Vietnam’s capital to the northern highlands.

Board the evening train from Hanoi bound for Lao Cai, the gateway to Sapa. Settle into your private sleeper cabin and relax as the train glides past quiet villages, rice paddies, and misty foothills. Let the rhythmic motion lull you to sleep, arriving early the next morning ready to explore Sapa’s dramatic mountain landscapes and diverse hill tribe cultures.

Meal: Nil
Accommodation: Overnight train is on a 4-berth cabin basis. An optional upgrade to a private cabin may be available upon request

Awaken at dawn, refreshed and ready to begin your first day in Sapa, a former French hill station known for its cool climate, sweeping terraced rice fields, and vibrant ethnic cultures.

After a one-hour transfer from Lao Cai Train Station, enjoy a relaxed morning before heading out in the afternoon for a half-day walk to Suoi Ho – Ma Tra Village. Wander along quiet paths through rice fields and local hamlets, gaining a glimpse into the daily life of ethnic minority communities. Your driver will collect you around 17:30 to bring you back to Sapa Town. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful dinner at a local restaurant.

Please note: The walking distance is around 4-6 KM on mildly undulating terrain. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are advised. Early check-in is dependent on room availability at the Hotel

Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Aliana Boutique Sapa (Deluxe Window) or similar

Enjoy a full day at leisure to soak in the charm of Sapa.

Stroll through the town’s quaint streets, browse the local market, or take the cable car ride up to Mount Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina, for panoramic mountain views. For a more active experience, you may also book our optional hiking excursion for truly incredible views of Sapa’s iconic rice terraces. Then tongiht we catch the overnight train back to Hanoi.

OPTIONAL: Venture through Sapa’s less-trodden paths, from Ta Van to Lao Chai, on a trek that showcases the region’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural tapestry.

Begin with a picturesque walk through emerald paddy fields, descending gently towards a river gorge where moments of tranquillity by the mountain streams offer a glimpse into local life. The journey unfolds with stunning vistas at every turn, culminating in a village luncheon. In Lao Chai, immerse yourself in the heritage of the H’mong through a Batik painting masterclass, a venerable tradition preserved by the community.

Please note: The tour today starts at 8:00 a.m. and finishes at 4:00 PM. Walking distance is 6 KM – 8 KM. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are advised.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Overnight train is on a 4-berth cabin basis. An optional upgrade to a private cabin may be available upon request

Sail through the UNESCO-listed waters of Halong Bay aboard the elegant Emeraude Classic Cruise, combining natural beauty with nostalgic charm.

After waking up on your overnight train in the capital, begin with a morning transfer to Halong Bay, where you’ll board the Emeraude and be welcomed with a refreshing drink. Cruise past towering limestone karsts as you enjoy a buffet lunch on board, then stop at Ti Top Island for a swim or a short hike. Spend the afternoon kayaking or relaxing with French-style crêpes on the sundeck before indulging in a sunset canapé service and evening dinner. Optional squid fishing offers a fun end to a scenic day on the water.

Please note: Pick-up is at 08:30 am. Activities and timings may vary based on weather and cruise schedule. Drinks are not included with meals. We may need to offer alternative vessels depending on availability.

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