12-Day Hidden Gems Tour: Hanoi, Pu Luong Trekking, Bai Tu Long Bay & Hue Heritage

Route: Hanoi City Exploration | Accommodation: Conifer Grand Hotel

Today, we journey through Hanoi's intellectual and historical landmarks. We start at the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu), Vietnam's first national university established in the 11th century. Stroll through the tranquil gardens, admire the symbolic Khue Van Cac, and discover the UNESCO-recognized "stone steles," which memorialize Vietnam's ancient scholars.

Our next stop is the immersive Ethnology Museum (closed Mondays), offering a profound look at the customs, costumes, and traditional houses of the country's 54 ethnic groups. Plan for two hours to fully absorb this cultural richness. In the afternoon, we explore the elegant French Quarter—Hanoi's "little Paris." We visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex (exterior view), enjoying a leisurely walk through the botanical gardens to see the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh's house on stilts, and the iconic One-Pillar Pagoda.

We conclude the day with a captivating Water Puppet Show. This unique art form, dating back to the 11th century, describes Vietnamese daily life and folklore using traditional music and puppets performing on water—a truly magical cultural finale.

Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B), Private Transportation, Entrance Fees, Water Puppet Show, 02 bottles of mineral water, Accommodation.

Route: Hanoi – Mai Hich, Mai Chau (145km - 3.5h) | Accommodation: Mai Hich Homestay (Sharing Homestay)

Your hidden gems adventure begins as we depart Hanoi for the mountains. En route, we stop at a traditional Muong village to observe local life. The journey culminates with a pause at the stunning Thung Khe Pass, offering a magnificent, panoramic view of the valley before we descend into Mai Chau. This valley is a breathtaking tapestry of green mountains, rice terraces, and peaceful White Thai ethnic villages.

Upon arrival in Mai Hich, check into your accommodation and enjoy a delicious, authentic lunch cooked by your host. The afternoon is dedicated to connecting with the culture. You can choose to walk or cycle (optional) along the scenic trails of Mai Hich village. You'll be seduced by the gorgeous landscapes and the perfect harmony of nature. Don't miss the chance to communicate with the friendly local people who embody the warmth of rural Vietnam and often invite you in for a cup of tea.

Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L, D), Private Transportation, Bike Rental (Optional), 02 bottles of mineral water, Accommodation.

Route: Mai Chau – Pu Luong (40km - 1h) | Accommodation: Pu Luong Home (Shared bathroom)

Today is about conquest and discovery as we delve into the pristine Pu Luong Nature Reserve. We drive to Eo Ken, the heartland of the Muong ethnic group. Your day begins with an exhilarating 4-5 km walk down the slopes, rewarding you with spectacular views of the reserve’s famous rice field terraces and mountains. We visit a Muong ethnic family in Eo Ken to discover their authentic, slow-paced life before crossing a stream to reach the idyllic Hang Village.

After a transfer to your beautiful accommodation in Pu Luong, the afternoon is dedicated to the picturesque area of Chieng Lau. We take a scenic walk through lush rice fields and discover the iconic bamboo water wheels—a simple, ingenious technology used for irrigation. This is a moment of deep closeness to nature and a perfect glimpse into the resourcefulness of the local Thai residents.

Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L, D), Bamboo Rafting (Chieng Lau), Private Transportation, 02 bottles of mineral water, Accommodation.

Route: Pu Luong – Ninh Binh (140km - 4h) | Accommodation: Nep House

Start your final morning in Pu Luong with a rewarding 5 km hike down into the valley. You’ll pass through magnificent rice fields and small paths connecting Chom Uoi and Chom Lan villages. This walk provides an incredible opportunity to capture the changing landscapes where terraces intermingle with streams and mountains—a photographer's dream!

After lunch, we embark on a scenic 3-hour drive to Ninh Binh. The journey takes us through the peaceful rural landscapes of the Red River Delta, offering a charming glimpse into the everyday life of the Vietnamese countryside. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation, ready to explore the majesty of the "Ha Long Bay on Land" tomorrow.

Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L, D), Private Transportation, 02 bottles of mineral water, Accommodation.

Route: Ninh Binh Exploration – Transfer to Hanoi (100km - 2h) | Accommodation: Conifer Grand Hotel

Embrace an active morning! Choose an immersive 10 km or 20 km bike ride along the peaceful dyke, offering unparalleled views of rice fields and towering limestone mountains. We cycle to the ancient Thung La Temple (11th century), where you can experience the traditional musical instruments essential to Vietnamese spiritual life. (Non-cyclists can travel by scooter or car).

The highlight of the morning is a sampan boat trip through the breathtaking Van Long Nature Reserve. Your local rower will navigate you through streams and towering karsts. If you're lucky, you may spot white monkeys and egrets on the cliffs—an incredible moment of serenity. In the afternoon, visit a local embroidery village and participate in a fascinating embroidery workshop led by the skillful Mrs. Lam, practicing this beautiful traditional craft yourself. We then return to Hanoi by car for your final night in the capital.

Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Boat Trip (Van Long), Private Transportation, Entrance Fees, Bike Rental, Traditional Music Performance, Embroidery Workshop, 02 bottles of mineral water, Accommodation.

Route: Hanoi – Halong – Bai Tu Long Bay (160km - 3h) | Accommodation: Garden Bay Legend Cruise (Deluxe Cabin)

Today marks your escape to a secluded paradise. We transfer directly from Hanoi to Sunworld International Harbor (approx. 2.5–3 hours), passing through the scenic Red River Delta.

12:30 PM: Board the elegant Garden Bay Cruise. After a warm welcome, safety briefing, and cabin check-in, a delightful set-menu lunch is served as we begin cruising into the tranquil waters of Bai Tu Long Bay. This northern section is far less crowded, ensuring a truly exclusive experience.

3:30 PM: We reach the beautiful Cap La area. This is your chance for exploration and relaxation: kayak through hidden lagoons to explore the bay's geology, enjoy a refreshing swim, or simply relax on the quiet beach. As the sun begins to set, join the Sunset Party during Happy Hour on the sundeck. A special BBQ dinner is served in the evening (weather permitting), followed by free time for evening activities like squid fishing or relaxing at the sky bar.

Included: Shuttle Bus (Hanoi-Halong), English Speaking Guide (on board), Meal (B, L, D), Entrance Fees, Kayaking, Cooking Demonstration, 02 bottles of mineral water, Overnight Cruise Accommodation.

Route: Bai Tu Long Bay – Hanoi – Da Nang – Hoi An | Accommodation: Delicacy Hotel & Spa

Greet the day with a peaceful Tai Chi session on the deck as the sun rises over the limestone karsts. After a light breakfast, the boat cruises towards the Vung Vieng Fishing Village.

7:45 AM: Take a traditional bamboo boat to explore Vung Vieng, gaining firsthand experience of the unique daily life of this local fishing community, whose homes float amidst the serene seascape. Return to the main boat for check-out and enjoy your last views of the bay over a final lunch as we sail back to the shore.

Upon disembarkation, our driver transfers you back to Hanoi and directly to Noi Bai Airport for your domestic flight to Da Nang (DAD). Your local guide will meet you upon arrival and transfer you to the charming, UNESCO-listed town of Hoi An. Check in and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Private Transportation, Entrance Fees, Morning Tai Chi, Domestic Flight, 02 bottles of mineral water, Accommodation.

Route: Hoi An Cycling & Walking Tour | Accommodation: Delicacy Hotel & Spa

Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Hoi An Old Town. We begin with a walking tour, visiting the ancient Cam Pho communal house and the iconic, 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge. We explore the Quan Thang Ancient House, offering a glimpse into a traditional family's life, and the magnificent Phuc Kien Assembly Hall.

Next, we take a ferry across the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong Village, famous for its wood carving. We cycle through the village to meet local artisans, witnessing their talent and admiring their fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese styles. Continue cycling to Tra Nhieu village for deep cultural immersion, meeting local craftspeople like Ms. Duoc (mat weaving) and Mr. Kha (bamboo basket making).

The afternoon culminates in Cam Thanh village. Relax with green tea and a soothing foot massage before participating in a hands-on cooking practice! Using fresh herbs, you’ll learn to make classic Central Vietnamese dishes. Finally, enjoy a peaceful ride in a round bamboo sampan basket boat through the picturesque water palm forest.

Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Boat Trips (Thu Bon River, Basket Boat), Private Transportation, Entrance Fees, Bike Rental, Foot Massage, Cooking Class, 02 bottles of mineral water, Accommodation.

Route: Hoi An – Hue (125km - 3h) | Accommodation: Rosaleen Boutique Hotel

Enjoy one of the most beautiful coastal drives in Southeast Asia as we journey from Hoi An to Hue. We pass through Da Nang, stopping at the Cham Museum to appreciate the ancient Cham culture collections. We pause briefly at My Khe Beach before tackling the spectacular Hai Van Pass ("Ocean Cloud Pass"). We stop at the summit to capture the breathtaking, sweeping view where the mountains meet the sea—a truly unforgettable vista.

Upon arrival in Hue, after lunch, we visit the serene Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the city's oldest spiritual landmarks, famous for its majestic octagon tower. The afternoon is dedicated to the magnificent Hue Citadel, the former imperial capital. Explore the vast Imperial City (Hoang Thanh) and the Forbidden Purple City (Cam Thanh), walking past the Flag Tower and the Palace of Supreme Harmony, filling you with a profound sense of reverence for Vietnam's dynastic history.

Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Private Transportation, Entrance Fees, 02 bottles of mineral water, Accommodation.

Route: Hue Local Life & Tomb Exploration (25km - 1h) | Accommodation: Rosaleen Boutique Hotel

We begin with an enchanting Royal boat trip on the poetic Huong River (Perfume River) to explore the villages on the city's east bank. We disembark at Tien Non village for an immersive bike ride through the countryside, traversing Tien Non, Thanh Tien, and Sinh villages. You’ll be immersed in the peaceful daily rhythm of village life.

In Thanh Tien village (400 years old), you'll visit the home of artisan Mr. Hieu to learn the techniques of making artificial paper flowers—a unique New Year custom. Next, in Sinh village, the cradle of 400-year-old folklore prints, meet Mr. Phuoc to discover the intricate process of traditional print-making.

The afternoon takes us to the extraordinary Khai Dinh King's Tomb. Built between 1920 and 1931, this mausoleum stands out for its unique blend of Oriental and Western styles. Climb the hundred steps to the worship palace and marvel at the breathtaking interior, adorned with vibrant porcelain fragments and an immense ceiling painting.

Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B), Boat Trip (Perfume River), Private Transportation, Entrance Fees, Bike Rental, Paper Flower Workshop, 02 bottles of mineral water, Accommodation.

Route: Hue – Phu Bai Airport (45-60 minutes) | Accommodation: Departure

Enjoy a final Vietnamese breakfast at your hotel in Hue. At the appropriate time, your driver will provide a comfortable transfer to Phu Bai Airport (HUI) for your onward flight.

You depart Vietnam having experienced the ultimate collection of hidden gems and grand heritage—from the warmth of Mai Chau and the tranquility of Bai Tu Long Bay to the imperial majesty of Hue.

Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B), Private Transportation, 02 bottles of mineral water.