6-Day North Vietnam Adventure: Da Bac, Pu Luong Trekking, Mai Chau & Ninh Binh Escape

Today is dedicated to physical adventure and majestic scenery, rewarding you with an exhilarating sense of challenge and freedom.

• Morning: Epic Highlands Trek: After an early Included Breakfast (B), we begin an invigorating 8 km trek from Sung to Da Bia Village. The initial 4 km follow a gentle concrete path before transitioning onto a thrilling, narrow forest trail. You will ascend and descend challenging forest terrain (note: trail may be slippery if wet), moving from an altitude of 530m down toward the reservoir.

• The Scenic Reward: The final descent brings you to the boat pier, where the stunning panorama of the Da Reservoir unfolds before you.

• Afternoon: Mountain Halong Bay: We board a local boat to reach Da Bia and then embark on a relaxing kayaking adventure on the immense Da Reservoir. Often nicknamed the "Halong Bay of the mountains," the sight of karst peaks rising dramatically from the turquoise water is utterly breathtaking. Gain a glimpse into the lives of local fishermen as you paddle through the tranquil bays.

• Evening: Settle into your second homestay location in the Da Bac area, sharing another delicious Included Dinner (D) and reflecting on the day’s conquests.

Inclusions: English speaking guide, Meal: B, L, D, Transportation, Kayak (Da Bia), 2 bottles of mineral water.

Accommodation: Da Bac Homestay (Sharing Homestay)

Experience a seamless transition from the rugged peaks of Da Bac to the peaceful, postcard-perfect landscapes of Mai Chau, trading one form of natural beauty for another, filling you with a sense of serenity.

• Morning: Lake Cruise: After Included Breakfast (B), enjoy a leisurely 3 km walk to the boat pier. Board a local boat for a scenic trip across a portion of Hoa Binh Lake (Ngoi Hoa Bay) to Suoi Lon pier. This is a final opportunity to soak in the "Halong Bay of the mountains" views.

• Transfer to Mai Chau: Our driver meets you at Suoi Lon, and we transfer to the lush, green valley of Mai Chau.

• Afternoon: Arrival in Mai Hich: Upon arrival in Mai Hich, you'll be welcomed by the Thai ethnic minority community. Enjoy a delectable Included Lunch (L) of local dishes prepared by your host.

• Village Exploration (Bike or Hike): Get up close and personal with the valley. Choose a relaxing bike ride (approx. 12 km) or a scenic walk (approx. 6 km) along trails and concrete roads. You will be seduced by the gorgeous scenery where traditional stilt houses, vibrant rice fields, mountains, and streams harmonize perfectly. Feel the warm connection as friendly locals wave and welcome you into their homes for a cup of tea.

• Evening: Enjoy a flavorful Included Dinner (D) and the cultural atmosphere of your homestay beneath the towering stilts.

Inclusions: English speaking guide, Meal: B, L, D, Boat (Da Bia - Suoi Lon), Transportation, Bike (Mai Chau), 2 bottles of mineral water.

Accommodation: Mai Hich Homestay (Sharing Homestay)

Today is the pinnacle of your trekking journey: an immersive day in the magnificent Pu Luong Nature Reserve, guaranteed to inspire a sense of awe and achievement.

• Morning: Transfer and Descent: After Included Breakfast (B), a short transfer takes us to Thanh Son. We then begin our descent into the magical valley, heading towards Kho Muong Village, one of the most remote and picturesque villages in Pu Luong, nestled dramatically among terraced fields.

• Terraced Field Glory: Spend the morning admiring the unbelievable beauty of the cascading, terraced rice fields—the signature landscape of Pu Luong. Engage with local Thai ethnic communities working in this stunning environment.

• Afternoon Wilderness Hike: Following an Included Lunch (L), our adventure continues as we follow village trails leading through the forest and expansive cassava fields. This challenging yet rewarding 13-14 km hike takes you deep into the reserve’s heart.

• Arrival in Ui Village: We conclude the hike at the charming Ui Village, where your driver awaits to take you to your luxurious accommodation within the reserve. Settle in and relish the satisfaction of conquering the day’s trail, with panoramic views surrounding you.

Inclusions: English speaking guide, Meal: B, L, D, Transportation, 2 bottles of mineral water.

Accommodation: Pu Luong Homestay (Sharing Homestay)

Transition from the rice terraces to the iconic limestone karst scenery of Ninh Binh, completing your Northern Vietnam landscape immersion, offering a profound sense of wonder.

• Morning: Living Hydraulics: After Included Breakfast (B), enjoy a final, short 3-4 km scenic walk around Chieng Lau. This area is famous for its lush rice fields and the incredible, traditional bamboo water wheels. Observe how these ingenious devices harness river power for irrigation and engage with locals. You will also experience a brief, relaxing bamboo rafting experience.

• Scenic Transfer to Ninh Binh: Following an Included Lunch (L), we embark on a picturesque 3-hour drive to Ninh Binh. The route offers a beautiful contrast of winding mountain roads and the flat, fertile plains of the Red River Delta.

• Afternoon Arrival: Check into your serene accommodation in Ninh Binh. The rest of the afternoon is yours to relax and absorb the quiet atmosphere, surrounded by towering, dramatic limestone karsts that jut straight out of the flat fields.

• Evening: Enjoy a quiet, restful Included Dinner (D), preparing for your final day of exploration.

Inclusions: English speaking guide, Meal: B, L, D, Boat (Chieng Lau bamboo rafting), Transportation, 2 bottles of mineral water.

Accommodation: Nep House (Double Room) or similar

Conclude your adventure with historical sites, a serene river cruise, and a final cultural immersion before returning to Hanoi, leaving you with cherished memories and a sense of completeness.

• Morning Activity (Choose Your Pace): After Included Breakfast (B), you can choose an active or relaxed start:

  • Active: Embark on a rewarding 10-20 km bike ride along the dyke, offering stunning, expansive views of the rice fields, river, and mountains. Stop for photos and local interaction.

  • Relaxed: Opt for a passenger seat on a scooter or travel by car to the same destinations.

• Temple and Tradition: Visit the ancient Thung La Temple, dating back to the 11th century, and experience traditional Vietnamese musical instruments.

• Van Long Serenity: Next, take a beautiful sampan boat trip through the breathtaking Van Long Nature Reserve. Glide silently along the stream among the limestone mountains. Keep your eyes peeled for rare white-trousered langurs or flocks of egrets on the cliffs—a moment of pure nature.

• Cultural Farewell: Visit a local embroidery village and take part in a hands-on embroidery workshop led by a local craftswoman, Mrs. Lam, learning the delicate techniques of this traditional art.

• Afternoon Transfer: Enjoy a final Included Lunch (L), then begin the scenic drive back to Hanoi, where you will be dropped off at your accommodation, concluding your incredible journey.

Inclusions: English speaking guide, Meal: B, L, Boat (Van Long), Transportation, Entrance fees, Bike (Ninh Binh), Leisure (Thung La temple music), 2 bottles of mineral water.

Departure: Drop-off at your Hanoi accommodation.