15 Ng. 100 Đ. Nguyễn Xiển, Thanh Xuân Nam, Thanh Xuân, Hà Nội 100000
Embark on an unforgettable 6-day Northern Vietnam vacation that masterfully blends the tranquil beauty of rural highlands with the breathtaking majesty of a world-renowned natural wonder. This meticulously crafted itinerary is designed for travelers seeking a diverse and immersive experience, moving seamlessly from the serene valleys of Mai Chau and the pristine nature reserve of Pu Luong to the mystical emerald waters of Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This journey offers a unique opportunity to witness the contrasting yet equally captivating facets of Northern Vietnam, promising an adventure filled with cultural discovery, natural splendor, and moments of profound tranquility.
Our "Northern Vietnam Vacation: Mai Chau - Pu Luong - Halong Bay 6 Days" is more than just a tour; it's a sensory expedition. Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of rural life in Mai Chau, cycling through emerald rice paddies, and then later, hiking amidst the terraced fields and cascading waterfalls of Pu Luong. The highlight culminates with cruising amidst thousands of towering limestone karsts rising majestically from the tranquil waters of Halong Bay. This journey promises not only visual feasts but also deep cultural insights. You'll gain a firsthand appreciation for the sustainable agricultural practices that have shaped these landscapes for centuries, turning mountainsides into living works of art.
Throughout this enriching 6-day exploration, you will connect intimately with the diverse ethnic minority groups of the region, particularly the White Thai and Muong people in Mai Chau and Pu Luong. Through authentic homestays in traditional stilt houses, shared, hearty home-cooked meals, and engaging interactions, you’ll gain invaluable insights into their distinct customs, vibrant traditional attire, and resilient way of life. From the peaceful charm of the valleys to the awe-inspiring grandeur of the bay, every day unfolds a new wonder and fosters a deeper connection to this remarkable corner of Vietnam. This tour is an exploration of Northern Vietnam's diverse soul, an opportunity to relax and immerse amidst incredible natural beauty, and a chance to forge unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Prepare to be enchanted by the harmonious blend of nature, culture, and adventure on this extraordinary vacation.
Discover the Tranquil Mai Chau Valley: Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Mai Chau, a picturesque valley known for its charming stilt houses of the White Thai ethnic group. Enjoy leisurely cycling tours through lush rice paddies, observe traditional weaving, and relax amidst the peaceful rural scenery.
Explore Pu Luong Nature Reserve: Venture into the stunning Pu Luong Nature Reserve, a hidden gem offering breathtaking landscapes of terraced rice fields, limestone mountains, and cascading waterfalls. Engage in moderate treks through charming villages, connect with the local Thai and Muong communities, and experience the untouched beauty of this biodiverse area.
Authentic Ethnic Minority Homestays: Experience genuine cultural immersion with overnight stays in traditional homestays within the White Thai villages of Mai Chau and Pu Luong. Share delicious, home-cooked meals with local families, learn about their daily routines, distinct customs, and traditional crafts, offering a unique and personal glimpse into their authentic way of life.
Cruise the Magnificent Halong Bay: Be mesmerized by the iconic Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a luxurious overnight cruise amidst thousands of towering limestone karsts, emerald waters, and hidden grottoes. Participate in activities like kayaking through caves, swimming, and exploring floating villages, creating unforgettable moments on this legendary bay.
Savor Authentic Local Cuisine: Indulge in the rich flavors of Northern Vietnamese cuisine throughout your journey. Enjoy hearty, home-cooked meals prepared by your host families in rural homestays, and delight in fresh seafood during your Halong Bay cruise. Taste local specialties that reflect the unique culinary heritage of each region.
Professional and Knowledgeable Local Guides: Benefit from the expertise of experienced local guides who not only ensure your comfort and safety but also provide invaluable insights into the history, culture, and natural environment of the areas you explore, enriching your understanding of this diverse region.
Hanoi Exploration: Begin and end your adventure in Hanoi, Vietnam's vibrant and historic capital. Explore its ancient quarter, iconic landmarks, and bustling street life, offering a perfect blend of urban charm and natural exploration before and after your main tour.
Breathtaking Photography Opportunities: Capture incredible landscapes, vibrant cultural scenes, and genuine, heartwarming moments throughout your journey. From the golden hues of rice paddies to the dramatic karsts of Halong Bay, Northern Vietnam offers endless opportunities for stunning photography.
Seamless Transitions: Enjoy comfortable and efficient transfers between destinations, allowing you to maximize your time exploring and minimizing travel stress, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable vacation.
HOTELS
Homestay
Economy 2*+ Hotels
Superior 3* Hotels
First Class 4* Hotels
Deluxe 5* Hotels
Luxury 5*++ Hotels
Notes:
*All prices are based on per adult, in Double/Twin sharing
Surcharge will be applied for single traveler or single room request
Important Notes:
HOTELS, PROGRAMS & SCHEDULES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE
GUIDE/LEADER:
English speaking guide. French , Germany , Spanish, Italian, Russian speaking guide can be arranged with on request.
At Golden Trail Travel, we believe every journey should be as unique as the traveler. As Asia's premier trekking tour operator, we specialize in creating bespoke hiking experiences that perfectly match your desires and budget, wherever your wanderlust takes you.
Our dedicated team—comprising experienced trekking guides, knowledgeable local experts, reliable drivers, insightful tour consultants, and passionate mountain specialists—is committed to ensuring your adventure is seamless, safe, and truly unforgettable.
Whether you're exploring solo, enjoying a family getaway, or embarking on a group expedition, we're here to design a trip that's exclusively yours. The itineraries you see are just a starting point; consider them a canvas upon which we'll paint your ideal Asian trekking tour. We invite you to share your ideas, tell us your preferences, and let us know your budget. We'll meticulously customize an existing itinerary or craft a brand-new program from the ground up, adding or excluding elements until it's absolutely perfect for you.
We will leave Hanoi for Hoa Binh province and up then to Mai Chau valley. This scenic drive takes around four hours. Along the way we pass fields of tapioca and sugar cane as well as rice paddies. Upon arriving in Mai Chau valley, we take a short walk around Lac & Poom Coong villages to have the first experience of the White Thai community local life and their culture. Lunch will be served at local home. We will then leave Mai Chau for a short ride along the Ma river (22km) to Sai village. Off the bus, we begin our trek to Duom and Hang villages. We will trek through outstanding mountain scenery and picturesque rice paddies, see hand-crafted bamboo water wheels, and talk with the lovely local people. Spend the night in a local Thai family’s traditional home on stilts.
After having breakfast with our new Thai friends, we will be walking for a approximately 5 to 6 hours. The first section is hard with some steep climbs and stream crossings. The second stage is glorious with beautiful views of the valley, rice terraces, rich rain forests, and meandering streams. Your picnic lunch will be provided on the way at Eo Ken village. Arrival in Kho Muong village is always special as the setting of the village is perhaps the most beautiful in Vietnam, nestled between steep karst mountains with rice terraces in the afternoon sun. Spend our second night nearby in a typical Thai eco – stilt home in Kho Muong village.
After having breakfast, we will trek to Hin village (5 – 6 hours). On this route we will encounter some steep climbs and more stream crossings. Along the way we will visit an incredible cave, only recently discovered, now protected by the Forest Rangers. The trekking will become more and more remote although one is never that far from a villager tending their fields. Pass steep limestone mountains and curiosity conjuring caves, through the dense rain forests all inside the borders of the Pu Luong Nature Reserve and onto Nua village. Our picnic lunch will be served in a local house of the village. Then we continue to Hin village of the Thai people. Overnight at Hin village.
Get up early morning if you would like to observe or take part in daily life of the local people. Then breakfast is served by our Thai host family in preparation for a hard but pleasurable trek (6 – 7 hours) through rich and wild rain forests. This challenging hike wanders through the biodiversity of the Pu Luong Nature Reserve. We will have a picnic lunch inside the Pu Luong Nature Reserve, then continuing our trek to Ton village. Our vehicle will picks us up here for our drive back to Hanoi. Overnight in Hanoi.
After breakfast, we will depart to Halong. Enjoy the journey through the rich farmlands of the Red River Delta and the scenery of rice fields, water buffalo and everyday Vietnamese village life. Arrive in Halong around noon and board the Bai Tho traditional sailing junk (or similar junk). Whilst cruising the exquisite waters sample the regions fresh seafood. Visit the recently discovered Surprise Grotto with its great views, and on the next island see the yawning mouth of Bo Nau Cave. Alternatively journey to Dau Go Cave and nearby see the famous stalagmites and stalactites of Thien Cung Cave. Take a kayaking trip to explore the Bay. Watch the sun set over the bay whilst enjoying a delicious dinner. Overnight on board junk.
Wake up to fresh coffee and a wholesome breakfast before cruising back to Halong City. En route the junk weaves through strange-shaped rock formations that invite comparisons from fighting cocks to dragons. After another wonderful fresh seafood lunch (early) on board disembark at the dock at Halong City. Transfer back to Hanoi. End.
Answer: Golden Trail Travel specializes in offering a wide range of travel packages to Vietnam and other Indochina countries such as Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, China, and Malaysia. We offer themed tours including Classic Highlights, Cycling, Trekking, Beach Holidays, Luxury Honeymoon, Short Trips, Family, Off The Beaten Track, Multi-Country, Motorbiking, Veteran, Food, Students, Luxury, Golf, Photography, Cooking Class, Bird Watching, Indochina Cruises, Kayaking, Muslim-friendly tours, Offroad 4x4WD, Indochina MICE Travel, Cave Expedition, and Helicopter tours.
Answer: You can book a tour by contacting us directly via phone, email, or by filling out the contact form on our website. Our team of travel experts will advise and assist you in designing a suitable itinerary.
Answer: Absolutely! We understand that every traveler has unique preferences. Golden Trail Travel is happy to customize tour packages to fit your specific needs, interests, and budget.
Answer: Depending on your nationality and the destination, we may provide guidance or assistance with the necessary visa procedures. Please contact us for more detailed information.
Answer: We are committed to delivering authentic and unique travel experiences in Vietnam and Indochina. With a team of knowledgeable local experts, meticulously designed tour packages, and dedicated customer care, we ensure every trip is a memorable journey.
Answer: We will provide you with a detailed checklist of what to prepare, including information on luggage, appropriate clothing for the weather and local culture, essential personal items, and health advice.
Answer: Our cancellation policy will be clearly stated in the terms and conditions when you book a tour. Please refer to this information or contact us for specific details.
Answer: We prioritize the safety and health of our travelers. Before your trip, we will provide information and advice regarding health, travel insurance, and safety measures at the destination.
Answer: Yes, we can arrange tour guides who speak Vietnamese or other common languages (such as English, French, German, Spanish, etc.) upon your request and subject to availability. Please inform us of your language preference when booking your tour.
Answer: We highly recommend all travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance before departure. While we do not directly provide insurance, we can advise on suitable insurance types and the importance of having coverage during your trip
Answer: We accept various payment methods, including bank transfers, credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), and some online payment options. Detailed information on payment options and payment schedules will be provided upon confirmation of your tour booking.
Answer: Yes, we have tour options suitable for solo travelers, including group joining tours or specially designed private tours. Please contact us so we can advise on the best package for you.
Answer: We offer many family-friendly tour packages and can adjust itineraries to suit travelers of all ages, including children and seniors. We will advise on the difficulty level, travel time, and activities appropriate for each member of your family.
Answer: You can find customer reviews and testimonials on our website (if a review section is available), social media pages, or reputable travel platforms like TripAdvisor.
Answer: We are committed to practicing responsible and sustainable tourism. We constantly strive to minimize our environmental impact, respect local cultures, and contribute positively to the communities where we operate.
Answer: Your safety is our top priority. Golden Trail Travel has a 24/7 emergency support team. We will provide emergency contact numbers and detailed instructions before your trip. Our guides and local partners are trained to handle emergency situations professionally.
Answer: Absolutely secure. We use highly encrypted online payment gateways and comply with international standards for data security. Your personal and financial information will be strictly protected.
Answer: Yes. Throughout your trip, you will always have the support of your local guide, driver, and Golden Trail Travel's operation team. We will provide a 24/7 support hotline so you can contact us anytime if you have any issues or need assistance.
Answer: Each tour package has clear details on included services (e.g., accommodation, transportation, meals as per itinerary, entrance fees to attractions, tour guide) and exclusions (e.g., international flights, visas, travel insurance, drinks, tips, personal expenses). You will receive a detailed itinerary and an inclusion/exclusion list before confirming your tour booking.
Answer: Our tour group sizes can vary depending on the type of tour. For join-in tours, we try to keep the numbers small to ensure a personalized and comfortable experience. We also offer private tours for families or groups of friends upon request.
Answer: Before departure, you can contact our team of consultants via phone, email, or online chat. We are always ready to answer any questions and help you prepare best for your trip.
Answer: We are strongly committed to sustainable tourism. This is reflected in our collaboration with responsible local partners, supporting local communities, encouraging travelers to respect culture and environment, and minimizing negative impacts on destinations. Our goal is to benefit both travelers and local people.