Senses of Northern Vietnam 6 Days: Hanoi, Mai Chau & Bai Tu Long Bay

Trip Details:

• Activity: 4.5-Hour Motorbike/Motor-taxi Adventure

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Authentic Local Lunch (L)

• Included: Motorbike/Motor-taxi, English Speaking Guide, Entrance Fees, Water

Prepare for the day that defines authentic Hanoi! After a safety briefing, you will hop onto a motorbike (or motor-taxi, your choice!) and plunge into the city's hidden depths.

Part I: The Hidden Hanoi. Your local guide navigates the maze of backstreets and tiny alleyways, revealing the unknown parts of the city rarely seen by tourists. This is a genuine "day in the life" experience, featuring local homes, bustling random markets, and the fascinating slices of life that define how Hanoians truly live, work, and play.

Part II: Historical Icons. We then transition to the city's glorious landmarks. We'll pass by the reverence of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, stop to admire the 1000-year-old Tran Quoc Pagoda on West Lake, and visit the serene Temple of Literature. We’ll cruise past the enchanting French Quarter and along the romantic shores of Hoan Kiem and West Lakes, crossing the legendary, historical Long Bien Bridge.

Part III: Culinary Immersion. This is where Hanoi truly shines! En route, we stop at carefully selected, authentic local eateries and food stalls. You will savor the tastiest of the tasty dishes of the city, including family heirloom & secret recipe dishes, local delicacies, and specialties that will leave your taste buds singing. This gastronomic adventure is the perfect way to cap off your deep dive into Hanoi’s soul.

Trip Details:

• Route: Hanoi to Mai Chau (approx. 3.5 hours)

• Accommodation: Mai Hich Homestay (Authentic Shared Stilt House)

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Dinner (D)

Leave the bustle of Hanoi behind as we journey west toward the Mai Chau Valley, a landscape famous for its harmonious natural beauty.

Our drive includes an exclusive stop at a traditional Muong village, offering a fascinating insight into the culture of this ethnic group before we reach the main valley. Next, prepare your camera for the spectacular views at Thung Khe Pass, providing magnificent panoramic views over the lush green valley and the dramatic mountain ranges.

Upon arrival at the tranquil Mai Hich village, you will check into your traditional stilt house homestay, receiving a genuinely warm White Thai welcome. After a delicious local lunch, the afternoon is dedicated to exploring. Choose to cycle (approx. 12 km) or walk (approx. 6 km) the trails, gliding past picturesque rice fields and meandering streams. This is your chance to connect with the friendly local people—they are eager to invite you into their homes for a shared cup of tea and a moment of cultural exchange.

(Option: For a truly special evening, ask your guide to arrange a private traditional music and dancing show by local villagers (+$35/group).)

Trip Details:

• Activity: Authentic 7-8 km Trekking

• Route: Mai Chau to Hanoi (approx. 3.5 hours)

• Accommodation: Conifer Grand Hotel (Deluxe Room) or similar hotel

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before driving to Xam Khoe. We begin with a visit to the local town market—a vibrant spectacle where Kinh and Thai people gather to trade handicrafts, livestock, and agricultural goods. This is a phenomenal opportunity for photography and interaction.

The highlight of the morning is a rewarding 7-8 km gentle trek. You will walk along the beautiful Ma River, passing through serene rice fields and small communities until you reach Buoc village. Buoc is treasured for being a Thai village that is still not touristy, offering an untouched and authentic glimpse into rural life. Feel the harmony of nature and rich human culture as you interact with the friendly locals.

After a delicious local lunch, our driver will meet us at Cun Pheo and we begin the relaxing drive back to Hanoi. Check back into your central Hanoi hotel, refreshed and ready for the next spectacular leg of your journey.

Trip Details:

• Route: Hanoi to Sunworld Harbor (approx. 3 hours)

• Accommodation: Garden Bay Legend Cruise (Deluxe Cabin)

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Dinner (D)

Today, we trade the city buzz for the majestic tranquility of the sea! After an early pickup, we transfer seamlessly from Hanoi to Sunworld Harbor, passing through the beautiful Red River Delta rice fields.

Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed aboard the Garden Bay Classic Cruise. After a safety briefing and check-in, a delicious Vietnamese Set Menu lunch is served as we begin our spectacular journey into the heart of Bai Tu Long Bay—a less-traveled and more pristine section of the legendary Halong Bay.

Afternoon Adventure: The afternoon features an exhilarating kayaking adventure into the bay's hidden corners. Paddle through serene waters, discovering secret coves and limestone islets. You'll also have time for swimming and sunbathing at a quiet spot.

Evening Indulgence: As the sun begins its spectacular descent, join the Sunset Party on the sundeck. Later, participate in a cooking class to learn the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine, followed by a sumptuous BBQ dinner under the stars (weather permitting). Conclude your magical day by relaxing on the sundeck or trying your hand at squid fishing—a perfect end to your first night on the water.

Trip Details:

• Route: Bai Tu Long Bay to Hanoi (approx. 3 hours) / Noi Bai Airport

• Meals: Light Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Included: Guide (onboard), Transportation, Tai Chi Session, Entrance Fees

Greet the dawn with an optional Tai Chi exercise on the sundeck, breathing in the fresh sea air as the bay awakens around you.

After a light Western-style breakfast, we transfer to a tender for a visit to Vung Vieng Fishing Village. Here, you will step into a rowing boat guided by a local fisherman, offering a unique, intimate look at the daily life and traditions of this floating community.

Next, you will explore the beautiful Thien Canh Son Cave, admiring the intricate stalactite formations. We then return to the main boat and begin our cruise back to the harbor along a unique cruising route, offering final, dramatic views of the limestone karsts.

Enjoy a final Fusion-style lunch onboard before checking out. Upon disembarking at Sunworld Harbor, your driver will be waiting to ensure a smooth, comfortable transfer back to Hanoi, arriving around 3:00 PM. From there, you will be seamlessly transferred to Noi Bai Airport for your departing flight, concluding your unforgettable Senses of Northern Vietnam journey.

Ready to book your blend of authentic culture, thrilling backstreet adventures, and serene bay cruising? Let's secure your dates today!