12-Day North & Central Vietnam Journey: Mai Chau, Pu Luong & UNESCO Heritage

Route: Hanoi City Exploration | Accommodation: Conifer Grand Hotel (Deluxe Room)

Today, we dive into the intellectual and historical heart of the capital. We begin at the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu), Vietnam's first national university, built in the 11th century. Walk through its serene courtyards, admire the symbol Khue Van Cac, and discover the UNESCO-recognized "stone steles" bearing the names of ancient scholars.

Next, gain a deep insight into Vietnam's diversity at the Ethnology Museum (closed Mondays). Spend two hours exploring the traditional costumes, tools, and housing of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups. The afternoon is dedicated to the French Quarter, a "little Paris" with stately boulevards and government buildings. We visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex (exterior view), strolling through the tranquil botanical gardens, past the Presidential Palace, to Ho Chi Minh’s simple house on stilts, and the unique One-Pillar Pagoda.

We conclude the day with a captivating Water Puppet Show. This unique performance, dating back to the 11th century, brings Vietnamese daily life, culture, and folklore to life on the water—a truly unique art form.

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 escape to the tranquility of the mountains begins! We depart Hanoi, stopping first at a small Muong village to witness their distinct local life. We continue over the breathtaking Thung Khe Pass, offering a magnificent, panoramic view of the valley before descending into the lush green landscapes of Mai Chau.

We arrive in Mai Hich village, nestled amidst green mountain ranges and rice terraces—the heartland of the White Thai ethnic group. After a warm welcome and a delicious lunch cooked by your host family, the afternoon is spent in pure discovery. Walk or cycle along the peaceful trails, passing rice fields and streams in perfect harmony. You’ll be seduced by the gorgeous scenery and have the chance to communicate with the friendly local people, who will happily welcome you into their homes for a cup of tea. We continue trekking to Xam Khoe, an untouched Thai village, before transferring back for a traditional dinner and a memorable overnight stay in your stilt house homestay.

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

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

We depart Mai Hich for the nearby Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Our focus today is on the authentic life of the Muong ethnic community. We drive to Eo Ken, a stunning spot where you'll begin a gentle 4-5 km walk down the slope, revealing the spectacular views of the Pu Luong reserve, its cascading rice terraces, and dramatic mountains.

We visit a Muong ethnic family in Eo Ken to discover their genuine, slow-paced daily life, before crossing a stream to reach the idyllic Hang Village. After this rewarding cultural trek, we transfer back to Mai Chau for lunch. Post-lunch, we depart for Ninh Binh, the ancient capital, enjoying the scenic views along the way. Upon arrival, check into your charming accommodation, preparing for 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 (Deluxe Room)

Prepare for an active day of exploration! We start with an optional 10-20 km bike ride along the peaceful dyke, offering stunning views of rice fields, rivers, and towering limestone mountains. Alternatively, you can ride a scooter or car. Our destination is the historic Thung La Temple, dating back to the 11th century, where you may experience traditional musical instruments integral to local spiritual life.

Next, enjoy a tranquil sampan boat trip through the Van Long Nature Reserve. As your local rower gently navigates the stream, you'll glide amongst dramatic karsts. Keep an eye out for white monkeys and egrets on the cliffs—a moment of pure nature. Afterwards, we visit a local embroidery village and participate in an embroidery workshop led by the skillful Mrs. Lam, a true insight into traditional craftsmanship.

In the afternoon, we transfer back to Hanoi, arriving in the late afternoon to check into your familiar hotel in the Old Quarter.

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 – Hai Phong – Lan Ha Bay (140km - 2.5h) | Accommodation: Peony Cruise - 2D1N (Deluxe Balcony Cabin)

Today, we transition to the coast! After pickup in the Old Quarter, we enjoy a comfortable 2.5-hour drive via the new highway to Tuan Chau Port.

12:30 PM: Board the support vessel to reach the luxurious Peony Cruises. After a warm welcome drink and safety briefing, you'll be treated to a special lunch featuring fresh seafood as we set sail for Lan Ha Bay—a quieter, more beautiful extension of Ha Long Bay.

3:30 PM: We visit the pristine Tra Bau area. This is your perfect moment to discover the true beauty of the limestone islands through kayaking or a refreshing swim in the emerald waters. Alternatively, enjoy the onboard Jacuzzi. As evening approaches, join the Cooking Demonstration to learn how to make traditional Vietnamese spring rolls, followed by the Sunset Happy Hour on the top deck. Indulge in a delicious, intimate dinner and relax under the stars, perhaps trying a bit of squid fishing!

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

Route: Lan Ha Bay – Hanoi – Da Nang – Hoi An | Accommodation: Delicacy Hotel & Spa (Deluxe City View Room)

Start your final bay morning with an invigorating Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the sun rises. After a light breakfast, we head to Cat Ba World Biosphere Reserve.

7:30 AM: We transfer to Trung Trang Cave, one of the most impressive caves on Cat Ba Island, exploring its thousand of stalactites and unique cave ecosystem. We return to the main boat, check out of your cabin, and enjoy an early lunch before disembarking at Tuan Chau Port.

Our driver welcomes you back to the mainland for the transfer back to Hanoi. We then transfer directly to Noi Bai Airport for your domestic flight to Da Nang (DAD). Upon arrival in Da Nang, your local guide meets you and transfers you to the UNESCO-recognized charm of Hoi An. Check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day 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 (Deluxe City View Room)

Today is dedicated to the magic of Hoi An Old Town. We begin with a leisurely walking tour, visiting the oldest communal houses like Cam Pho and the iconic, 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge. Immerse yourself in the town's life as we visit the Quan Thang Ancient House and the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall.

Next, we take a ferry across the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong Village, famed for its wood carving. We bike through the peaceful village, admiring the artisans' talent, which fuses ancient Vietnamese techniques with Chinese and Japanese styles. Continue cycling to Tra Nhieu village, where you'll meet locals like Ms. Duoc (mat weaving) and Mr. Kha (bamboo basket making), gaining a deep authentic experience of Central Vietnam's countryside life.

The afternoon takes you to Cam Thanh village for a unique experience. Enjoy green tea and a relaxing foot massage before participating in a hands-on cooking practice using herbs from Tra Que village (learning dishes like crispy pancakes and spring rolls). Finally, embark on a fun 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 – My Son – Hoi An (40km - 1h) | Accommodation: Delicacy Hotel & Spa (Deluxe City View Room)

This morning, we delve into the rich history of the Champa Kingdom with an excursion to the sacred valley of My Son Sanctuary (40km from Hoi An). Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, My Son was the intellectual and religious heart of the Cham people from the 7th to 13th centuries.

Your guide will lead you through the 70 ruined brick and stone architectural works, explaining the cultural, historical, and unique architecture of this Hindu civilization. Feel the reverence for this ancient past. The tour concludes with an elegant traditional Champa dancing show before we return to Hoi An, leaving the afternoon free for you to explore the town's charming streets or relax by the beach.

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

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

We begin the beautiful scenic drive from Hoi An to Hue, the former imperial capital. Along the sea road, we stop in Da Nang to visit the Cham Museum, which preserves the most important collections of Cham sculpture in the world. We also make a quick stop at My Khe Beach.

The drive continues with a highlight: stopping at the summit of the Hai Van Pass ("Ocean Cloud Pass") to enjoy a breathtaking, sweeping view of the coastline and the ocean below.

Upon arrival in Hue, after lunch, we visit the magnificent Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the city's oldest and most spiritual sites, known for its majestic octagon tower. We then immerse ourselves in the Hue Citadel, the majestic symbol of the Nguyen Dynasty. Inspired by Vauban fortifications, you will explore the vast Imperial City (Hoang Thanh) and the Forbidden City (Cam Thanh), walking past the Flag Tower, the South Gate, and the Palace of Supreme Harmony.

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

Route: Hue Local Life & Tomb Exploration | Accommodation: Rosaleen Boutique Hotel (Deluxe Double Room)

We start the day with an enchanting Royal boat trip on the poetic Huong River (Perfume River), traveling eastward to discover the local life along its banks. We disembark at Tien Non village for a leisurely bike ride through three distinct villages: Tien Non, Thanh Tien, and Sinh.

You'll be fully immersed in the daily rhythm of life, meeting villagers working in the rice fields and vegetable gardens. In Thanh Tien village (400 years old), we visit the family of artisan Mr. Hieu to learn the techniques of making artificial paper flowers—a unique New Year tradition. Next, in Sinh village, the cradle of 400-year-old folklore prints, you'll meet Mr. Phuoc to discover the traditional print-making techniques. This cycling and crafting day offers truly unforgettable, handcrafted souvenirs!

In the afternoon, we visit the extraordinary Khai Dinh King's Tomb. Built between 1920 and 1931, this tomb is distinguished by its unique fusion of oriental and western styles. Climb the hundred steps to the worship palace and marvel at the breathtaking decoration, including intricate porcelain fragments and a giant painting on the ceiling.

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 pick you up and transfer you to Phu Bai Airport (HUI) for your onward flight.

You depart Vietnam carrying memories of Hanoi's hustle, Mai Chau's peace, Lan Ha Bay's serenity, and the imperial grandeur of Hue and Hoi An—a comprehensive cultural and heritage journey.

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