Northern Vietnam 7 Days: Bac Son Valley Trekking, Ninh Binh & Secluded Bai Tu Long Bay Cruise

Emotion & Experience: Reflecting on Vietnam's scholarly past and cultural richness.

9:00 AM: Our day begins at the Temple of Literature (Văn Miếu), the site of Vietnam’s first national university, built in the 11th century. Stroll through the tranquil courtyards, admire the revered "stone steles" carried by stone turtles, and absorb the deep history of Vietnamese education.

Next, we gain a valuable perspective on Vietnam's diverse communities at the Ethnology Museum. Spend two hours exploring the traditional costumes, artifacts, and life-size replicas of the houses of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups.

The afternoon takes us through the elegant French Quarter, often nicknamed "Little Paris," with its tree-lined boulevards and impressive colonial architecture. We'll visit (outside) Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum before walking through the peaceful botanical gardens to see the Presidential Palace and the simple House on Stilts where the leader lived. We’ll also visit the unique One-Pillar Pagoda.

We conclude with the magical and uniquely Vietnamese art form: the Water Puppet Show. Watch daily life and folklore come alive as puppets dance across a water stage, accompanied by traditional music.

• Included: English-speaking Guide, Breakfast, Private Transportation, Entrance Fees, Water Puppet Show.

• Accommodation: Palago Boutique Hotel (Executive Room) or similar.

Emotion & Experience: Profound discovery and the peaceful embrace of the mountains.

8:00 AM: Today is the day we leave the city behind and head for the legendary, yet little-known, Bac Son Valley. Our scenic drive takes us through the lush northern countryside, famous for its tea plantations—a perfect spot for a delightful tea break.

We'll stop at Dang Mo Waterfall for a refreshing view and a delicious local lunch.

Next, we arrive at Quynh Son Village, nestled deep within the stunning Bac Son Valley. You'll receive a warm welcome at your traditional Tay family homestay. After settling in, we’ll take a leisurely stroll or an optional bike ride through the picturesque rice fields and villages. This valley is famous for its unique circular fields surrounded by towering limestone peaks—a true spectacle.

Enjoy a hearty dinner prepared by your host and feel the genuine ấm áp (warmth) of the Tay culture as you spend the night in a traditional stilt house.

• Included: English-speaking Guide, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Private Transportation, Homestay Accommodation (Sharing).

Emotion & Experience: Achieving conquest and capturing awe-inspiring views.

We start the day with a traditional breakfast before embarking on the highlight of Bac Son: the ascent of Na Lay Mountain. This is a moderate hike (approximately 1,200 steps), but every step is worth it. As you climb, the view transforms, culminating in a spectacular panorama of the entire valley. You’ll see the famous patchwork of green and yellow rice fields spread out below, framed by the karst mountains—an unforgettable photography moment.

After descending, we spend more time exploring the Tay minority village, where the locals are always happy to share a traditional cup of tea and a friendly interaction.

We enjoy a final authentic lunch in the valley before transferring back to Hanoi in the mid-afternoon. Check back into your comfortable hotel for a well-deserved rest.

• Included: English-speaking Guide, Breakfast, Lunch, Private Transportation.

• Accommodation: Palago Boutique Hotel (Executive Room) or similar.

Emotion & Experience: Peaceful gliding through the "Halong Bay on Land" and cultural immersion.

8:00 AM: We depart Hanoi for a day trip to the magnificent Ninh Binh province. Our drive is scenic, offering views of the picturesque Red River Delta.

Upon arrival, you can choose an active start with an optional 15km bike ride along the dike, providing stunning views of the river and mountains, or opt for a relaxing walk. We'll discover Thung La Temple, a structure dating back to the 11th century. Here, you'll meet the temple guardian, Mr. Tuong, and enjoy a fascinating 20-minute traditional drum show—a rare cultural treat!

The core experience of the day is the sampan boat trip through Van Long Nature Reserve. Gliding silently along the stream, surrounded by towering limestone mountains, creates a profound sense of tĩnh tại (tranquility). Keep an eye out for white monkeys and egrets—this area is a crucial conservation spot.

We conclude with a visit to an embroidery village, where craftswoman Mrs. Lam will host an embroidery course. This is your chance to practice this delicate traditional craft and create a small, memorable souvenir.

• Included: English-speaking Guide, Breakfast, Lunch, Private Transportation, Boat Trip (Van Long), Bike Use, Drum Show, Embroidery Course.

• Accommodation: Palago Boutique Hotel (Executive Room) or similar.

Emotion & Experience: Secluded awe and romantic luxury on the water.

This morning, we head to the coast! Your driver will pick you up for the comfortable 3-hour drive to Ha Long City, the gateway to the magnificent Bai Tu Long Bay.

12:00 PM: Transfer to the luxurious Swan Cruise, where you’ll receive a warm welcome and a refreshing drink. After a safety briefing and check-in, a delicious Vietnamese set menu lunch will be served as we leisurely cruise deeper into the more secluded areas of Bai Tu Long Bay.

The Afternoon's Seclusion:

1. Cap La Island: We arrive at the kayaking and swimming area near Cap La Island.

2. Kayaking & Swimming: Feel the freedom as you kayak through the pristine karst formations and swim in the emerald waters. This is the nguyên sơ (pristine) coastal experience you’ve been looking for.

3. Sunset & Culinary: Return to the boat for a delightful Sunset Party and a Vietnamese cooking demonstration (learning to make spring rolls or carving fruits).

4. Evening: Enjoy a sumptuous set dinner onboard, followed by free time for puzzles, board games, or trying your luck at squid fishing under the starlit sky.

• Included: Shuttle Bus (Hanoi - Ha Long), English-speaking Guide (on board), Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Entrance Fees, Kayaking, Cooking Demonstration, Squid Fishing.

• Accommodation: Swan Cruise (Deluxe Cabin).

Emotion & Experience: A final moment of tranquility before departure.

6:30 AM: Start the final day with a peaceful Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the sun rises over the limestone karsts. A Western-style breakfast is served shortly after.

7:45 AM: We embark on our last excursion to explore Thien Canh Son Cave, a magnificent, well-hidden cave showcasing thousands of spectacular stalactites.

9:30 AM: Return to the boat for check-out and a final traditional Vietnamese lunch as we sail back to the harbor.

11:30 AM: Disembark at Ha Long Cruise Port. Your private driver will meet you for the smooth return transfer to Hanoi. You will be dropped off at your hotel or directly transferred to Noi Bai Airport (HAN) for your international flight, taking with you the cherished memories of Vietnam’s hidden valleys and coastal wonders.

• Included: English-speaking Guide (on board), Breakfast, Lunch, Private Transportation, Entrance Fees, Tai Chi Session.