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Personalized tours in Vietnam, Thailand, Laos & Cambodia, crafted for unforgettable, immersive experiences.

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    15 Ng. 100 Đ. Nguyễn Xiển, Thanh Xuân Nam, Thanh Xuân, Hà Nội 100000

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    +84(832) - 126 - 699

Uncover Northern Vietnam's Secret Charm Photography 9 Days

  • CODE: GDT1955
  • Private Tour
  • Duration: 8 - 12 days
  • Price from: Contact
  • Route: Vietnam - Hai Phong - Moc Chau - Son La - Yen Bai - Ha Noi - Cat Ba - Dien Bien

Overview

Embark on an extraordinary "Uncover Northern Vietnam's Secret Charm: Photography 9 Days" tour with Golden Trail Travel, a meticulously crafted expedition designed for passionate photographers and cultural adventurers yearning to capture the authentic, diverse beauty of Vietnam's enchanting northern regions. This comprehensive 9-day photography journey delves deep into an incredible tapestry of landscapes, from majestic terraced rice fields and historical battlefields to serene karst formations and vibrant ethnic communities.

This Vietnam photography adventure is expertly designed to maximize your photographic opportunities, ensuring you're at the right place at the right time for optimal light and unique perspectives. Our experienced photography guides, intimately familiar with these varied terrains, will lead you through breathtaking mountain passes, remote ethnic villages, and stunning natural wonders. You'll traverse the legendary terraced rice fields of Nghia Lo and Mu Cang Chai, a UNESCO-recognized site, capturing their intricate patterns and the hardworking local farmers. This region, particularly during the "golden season" or lush green months, offers unparalleled visual narratives. The journey continues through the historically significant landscapes of Dien Bien Phu and Son La, providing unique opportunities to document both natural beauty and compelling history.

Beyond the grandeur of the mountains, this tour takes you to the tranquil Mai Chau Valley, where you'll immerse yourself in the serene life of the White Thai ethnic group. Experience the "Halong Bay on land" with a visit to Ninh Binh, exploring the ethereal Trang An Grottoes and the serene Van Long Nature Reserve, perfect for capturing dramatic limestone formations reflected in calm waters. The expedition culminates with a spectacular cruise through Lan Ha Bay (an extension of Halong Bay), offering unparalleled chances for sunrise and sunset photography over mystical karsts and the unique life of local fishermen. You'll engage with diverse ethnic minority communities like the Thai, H'mong, and Muong, documenting their traditional lifestyles, vibrant costumes, and warm hospitality. From ancient villages to dramatic bays, this Northern Vietnam photography expedition promises an expansive and rewarding experience, allowing you to build an extraordinary portfolio of truly authentic Vietnamese moments. Prepare your lenses for an unforgettable visual narrative of Vietnam's captivating charm

Trip Map

Highlight

  • Iconic Terraced Rice Fields Photography: Immerse yourself in the "golden season" (seasonal, typically late September/early October) or lush green splendor of Vietnam's most famous terraced rice fields in Nghia Lo, Tu Le, and Mu Cang Chai. Spend ample time capturing the intricate patterns, the reflections of the sky, and the hardworking farmers. This is a prime focus for landscape and agricultural photography, offering endless compositional possibilities.

  • Deep Cultural Immersion with Hill Tribes: Engage authentically with numerous ethnic minority communities, particularly the Thai people, through homestays in Nghia Lo and Mai Chau. You'll have unparalleled opportunities for portraiture, documentary, and cultural photography, capturing their unique lifestyles, vibrant traditional costumes, and daily activities.

  • Ancient Duong Lam Village: Begin your photographic journey by exploring Duong Lam Ancient Village, a unique opportunity to photograph traditional Vietnamese architecture, ancient communal houses, and the quiet life of a historic village. Perfect for architectural and cultural photography.

  • Historical Landscapes of Dien Bien Phu: Explore the historically significant sites of Dien Bien Phu, providing a unique context for your photography. Capture the landscapes and remnants of this pivotal battle, blending history with scenic views.

  • Tranquil Mai Chau Valley: Discover the peaceful Mai Chau Valley, home to the White Thai ethnic group. Photograph their traditional stilt houses, lush rice paddies, and daily life in a serene rural setting.

  • "Halong Bay on Land" - Ninh Binh: Explore the stunning karst landscapes of Ninh Binh. Take a traditional sampan boat ride through the ethereal Trang An Grottoes (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and the serene Van Long Nature Reserve. Capture dramatic limestone formations, reflections on calm waters, and the unique local environment.

  • Lan Ha Bay & Halong Bay Cruise Photography: Conclude your tour with a breathtaking overnight cruise in Lan Ha Bay (an extension of Halong Bay). Capture the ethereal beauty of thousands of towering limestone karsts emerging from the emerald waters. Focus on stunning sunrise and sunset photography over the iconic karsts, explore Dark & Bright Cave, and document the unique life of local fishermen on their traditional boats.

  • Scenic Drives and Mountain Passes: Enjoy breathtaking scenic drives through diverse landscapes, including mountain passes and winding roads, providing numerous opportunities to capture the ever-changing vistas, rural scenes, and local life along the way.

  • Diverse Photographic Subjects: From the intricate patterns of rice terraces and the dramatic karst formations of the bay to ancient villages and bustling local scenes, this tour offers an incredible range of photographic subjects and lighting conditions for a comprehensive portfolio

Service

HOTELS
Economy 2*+ Hotels
Superior 3* Hotels
First Class 4* Hotels
Deluxe 5* Hotels
Luxury 5*++ Hotels

Notes:
*All prices are based on per adult, in Double/Twin sharing
Surcharge will be applied for single traveler or single room request

Important Notes:
HOTELS, PROGRAMS & SCHEDULES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE

GUIDE/LEADER:
English speaking guide. French , Germany , Spanish, Italian, Russian  speaking guide can be arranged with on request.

Your Dream Photography Tours, Crafted Just for You Across Asia

At Golden Trail Travel, we believe every getaway should be as unique as the traveler. As Asia's premier Photography Tours, we specialize in creating bespoke coastal experiences that perfectly match your desires and budget, wherever your wanderlust takes you.

Our dedicated team—comprising experienced local experts, reliable drivers, insightful tour consultants, and passionate travel specialists—is committed to ensuring your escape is seamless, relaxing, and truly unforgettable.

Whether you're exploring solo, enjoying a family getaway, or embarking on a group expedition, we're here to design a trip that's exclusively yours. The itineraries you see are just a starting point; consider them a canvas upon which we'll paint your ideal Asian Photography Tours. We invite you to share your ideas, tell us your preferences, and let us know your budget. We'll meticulously customize an existing itinerary or craft a brand-new program from the ground up, adding or excluding elements until it's absolutely perfect for you.

Ready to start planning your dream Photography Tours across Asia? Share your requirements with us today, and let's create memories that will last a lifetime.

Inclusion

Exclusion

Itinerary

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Day 1: Hanoi - Duong Lam Village - Nghia Lo. Homestay Nghia Lo (L/D)
Morning Activities:You will leave Hanoi Capital city at 8:00 am with our guide and driver and travel for about 2 hours to Duong Lam ancient village which has been under UNESCO protection since 2006. The ancient houses here date back 100-400 years. Around the village are temples and gardens where offers you the opportunity to discover ancient values from the past.Then go ahead to Yen Bai to reach Nghia Lo. You will have chance to pass through beautiful mountain landscapes have lunch en route. Afternoon & Evening Activities:
This afternoon you continue to drive to Nghia Lo with through the rural countryside, paddy fields. You also have chance to see tea plantations corn or maize dotted amongst the karst limestone outcrops. You will stay overnight with a delightful White Thai family in a traditional stilt house in Nghia Lo. Have dinner at the family and interact with friendly people. Homestay at stilt house.
Day 2: Nghia Lo - Tu Le - Mu Cang Chai. Homestay In Mu Cang Chai (B/L/D)
Morning Activities:Wake up early and enjoy morning sound at mountainous area. Have breakfast at the family. This morning you will make a walking, trekking around paddy terrace fields in the peaceful village to take beautiful photos. This is also a chance you can see the villagers working in the fields surrounded by ducks, chickens, pigs and buffalos.You will pass over the dramatic Khau Pha Mountain Pass to get the panorama of mountain view spectacularly. You have more chance to discover and admire beautiful of rice terrace fields in Tu Le. Have lunch at local restaurant. Afternoon & Evening Activities:
You continue to drive to Nam Co Village where you will see the flower H’mong ethnic minority in their colourful traditional costume. If your trip falls on the correct day, you will also be able to visit the fascinating local market.
More chance to discover the beauties at many villages and take photograph Che Cu Nha Rice Terrace Field of Hmong people. And then visit as well as take photograph at Che Xu Phinh, La Phan Tan – it was recognized the national landscape of Vietnam in 2007 where have famous and nicest terraced fields in Mu Cang Chai District and Mam Xoi terraced rice fields and take a short walk up the hill to a viewpoint to take in the incredible views.
Arrive in Mu Cang Chai, check in homestay. Have dinner at stilt house and O/N at stilt house in Mu Cang Chai.
Note: Trekking distance 5-7 km.
Day 3: Mu Cang Chai - Dien Bien Phu. O/N In Dien Bien (B/L/D)
Morning Activities:Have breakfast at stilt house. Get up early and enjoy the mountain life and atmosphere at local family. Say goodbye everyone and travel ahead to Dien Bien Phu. Passing through mountain landscapes and spend more than 6 hours on road to reach Dien Bien. Have lunch en route Afternoon & Evening Activities:
This afternoon you discover Dien Bien Phu for visiting old battle field between Vietnam and French. You will visit A1 hill, Dien Bien Phu French head quarter of General De Castries. Have dinner and O/N in Dien Bien Phu.
Day 4: Dien Bien Phu - Son La. O/N In Son La (B/L/D)
Morning Activities:Have breakfast at hotel. This morning you leave Dien Bien to Son La and spend around 4 hours on car to reach Son La. On the way you will stop to visit Muong Phang the head quarter of Vietnam during the war. Next you visit General Giap tunnels. Check in hotel on arrival and have lunch at local restaurant. Afternoon & Evening Activities:
You will continue to visit Son La Prison built by French since 1908 with hundreds of objects which show the difficult and hard life in the prison of prisoners. Visit To Hieu peach tree and learn more of Vietnam history. Have dinner at restaurant and O/N in Son La.
Day 5: Son La - Mai Chau. Homestay In Mai Chau (B/L/D)
Morning Activities:Have breakfast at hotel. This moring your leave Son La at 8:00 am with our guide and driver to Mai Chau. It takes you about 5 hours on transport and pass through beauriful mountain scapes and peaceful villages of local people. You arrive in Mai Chau at noon. Have lunch at local food stall Afternoon & Evening Activities:
You arrive in Van village inhabited by White Thai ethnic group. Check in the homestay and be warmly welcomed by our host. You will have some rest and enjoy the fresh air at the village. Then you enjoy a walk around the village to get more experience of local life. Here you can also learn how to weave silk with an old loom in the family courtyard as well as more daily life of local people activities such as land preparation with a buffalo, rice planting, harvesting corn or vegetables,etc. Have dinner at the family. Accommodate at stilt house of Thai minority village with basic condition and clean. O/N in Mai Chau
Day 6: Mai Chau - Ninh Binh. O/N In Ninh Binh
Morning Activities:Have breakfast with the family. This early morning you can wake up early to hear the sound of mountain life and fresh air to enjoy as your own way.Then you visit Na Meo and Na Mo villages, typical traditional Vietnamese village, to learn about their culture and custom as well as the beauties in Mai Chau.You return the mountain village for have lunch and check out. Afternoon Activities:
This afternoon you leave Mai Chau for Ninh Binh. You spend about 4 hours to reach Ninh Binh and have more chance to pass through beautiful mountain scapes.
Reach Ninh Binh, check in hotel. Free to have your own dinner. Evening Activities:
Evening is your free time to experience around Ninh Binh peaceful life and get more enjoyment of its beauties. O/N at hotel in Ninh Binh
Day 7: Visit Trang An Grottoes - Van Long Nature Reserve. O/N In Ninh Binh (B/L)
Morning Activities:After breakfast at hotel, At 8.00 am our guide and driver welcome you at Hotel and transfer you to discover Ninh Binh Province. At first you will make a boat trip to rowing around and discover the spectacular scenery of the wetland Van Long Nature Reserve – the largest and beautiful natural area and enjoy rice paddies and limestone mountain peaks. If you are enough lucky you can see bird, langur on cliff mountain. Have lunch at restaurant. Afternoon & Evening Activities:
This afternoon you continue to visit Trang An Grottoes – the famous attraction in Ninh Binh that is in the list to get World Heritage Site from UNESCO. Take a boat trip to visit one of the most beautiful cave in the complex of Trang An Grottoes with the amazing scenery.
More free in the evening to get your own the peaceful life in this province and O/N in Ninh Binh.
Special remark: You can alternative Van Long Natural Reserve by Mua Cave climb nearly 500 steps to reach summit of Ngoa Long Mountain and get the view of Tam Coc cave and Ngo Dong River as pictureque from here.
Day 8: Ninh Binh - Hai Phong - Lan Ha Bay. O/N On Era Luxury Cruise (B/L/D)
Morning Activities:Travel out Ninh Binh province to reach Hai Phong. It takes you around 3 hours to reach Hai Phong city. Arrive in the wharf at noon time and make the way to get on board luxurious Era Cruise.Afternoon Activities:Welcome aboard and greeted with a complimentary drink. Our Crew will conduct a compulsory safety procedures session and then you are free to check into your cabin and freshen up. Take some time to have a look around the vessel or watch the magical landscape go by.Next you have a special lunch of fresh seafood and an assortment of appetizing favorites on board. The cruise set sails to Lan Ha Bay and pass through Da Chong where you can see a lighthouse built by the French over 100 years ago.After that when the cruise entries through Cua Van area to Lan Ha Bay (as part of Halong Bay), this area is surrounding of a lot extraordinary limestone karst landscapes. Here you start the journey to explore Ba Trai Dao beach, kayaking to immersed in the crystal clear waters of the bay and/or enjoy swimming.You return the main boat at 17:00 pm, and cruising to a place for staying overnightHappy hour with special drink menu (Buy one get another one for free) Evening Activities:
Join cooking demonstration is a great way to learn how to prepare Vietnamese delicious cuisines. Enjoy special Signature Dinner in restaurant on board.
The rest is your free time to relax with an exotic cocktail or whatever takes your fancy. The bar has a wide range or wines, beers and liquors for choice to enjoy the bay in the evening.
You can order a Spa service or take any activities on boat cruise such as watching documentary movies, squid fishing or simply relax on sundeck under the cover of a star filled sky. O/N on board.
Day 9: Dark & Bright Cave - Halong Bay - Hai Phong - Hanoi (B/L)
Morning Activities:Enjoy a sunrise on Lan Ha Bay. Have a Tai Chi lesson on the top deck. Have a morning cup of tea, coffee or juice on board for morning and watch the never ending miraculous scenery unfold before you.Light breakfast will be served in our restaurant (pastries, tea, coffee)Then you will visit Dark & Bright cave and islets by local rowing boats which is a wild and mysterious beauty in the middle of the World Heritage. Back to our main board afterwards.Check out of your cabin as we draw closer to the mainland. After a final early brunch and a last goodbye from our crew at 11:30. Get on the tender and head back to the wharf at noon time Afternoon Activities:
Our driver welcomes you at the wharf and transfers you return Hanoi city. Drop off you at Hanoi Old Quarter and around Hoan Kiem Lake. Say goodbye you after a wonderful journey to discover beauties of northern Vietnam!

FAQS

1. What types of tours does Golden Trail Travel offer?

Answer: Golden Trail Travel specializes in offering a wide range of travel packages to Vietnam and other Indochina countries such as Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, China, and Malaysia. We offer themed tours including Classic Highlights, Cycling, Trekking, Beach Holidays, Luxury Honeymoon, Short Trips, Family, Off The Beaten Track, Multi-Country, Motorbiking, Veteran, Food, Students, Luxury, Golf, Photography, Cooking Class, Bird Watching, Indochina Cruises, Kayaking, Muslim-friendly tours, Offroad 4x4WD, Indochina MICE Travel, Cave Expedition, and Helicopter tours.

2. How can I book a tour with Golden Trail Travel?

Answer: You can book a tour by contacting us directly via phone, email, or by filling out the contact form on our website. Our team of travel experts will advise and assist you in designing a suitable itinerary.

3. Can tours be customized?

Answer: Absolutely! We understand that every traveler has unique preferences. Golden Trail Travel is happy to customize tour packages to fit your specific needs, interests, and budget.

4. Does Golden Trail Travel provide visa support services?

Answer: Depending on your nationality and the destination, we may provide guidance or assistance with the necessary visa procedures. Please contact us for more detailed information.

5. What makes Golden Trail Travel different from other travel agencies?

Answer: We are committed to delivering authentic and unique travel experiences in Vietnam and Indochina. With a team of knowledgeable local experts, meticulously designed tour packages, and dedicated customer care, we ensure every trip is a memorable journey.

6. What should I prepare before the trip?

Answer: We will provide you with a detailed checklist of what to prepare, including information on luggage, appropriate clothing for the weather and local culture, essential personal items, and health advice.

7. What is Golden Trail Travel's cancellation policy?

Answer: Our cancellation policy will be clearly stated in the terms and conditions when you book a tour. Please refer to this information or contact us for specific details.

8. Where can I find information about travel safety and health?

Answer: We prioritize the safety and health of our travelers. Before your trip, we will provide information and advice regarding health, travel insurance, and safety measures at the destination.

9. Can I request a tour guide who speaks Vietnamese or a specific language?

Answer: Yes, we can arrange tour guides who speak Vietnamese or other common languages (such as English, French, German, Spanish, etc.) upon your request and subject to availability. Please inform us of your language preference when booking your tour.

10. Does Golden Trail Travel offer travel insurance?

Answer: We highly recommend all travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance before departure. While we do not directly provide insurance, we can advise on suitable insurance types and the importance of having coverage during your trip

11. How can I pay for my tour?

Answer: We accept various payment methods, including bank transfers, credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), and some online payment options. Detailed information on payment options and payment schedules will be provided upon confirmation of your tour booking.

12. Does Golden Trail Travel offer tours for solo travelers?

Answer: Yes, we have tour options suitable for solo travelers, including group joining tours or specially designed private tours. Please contact us so we can advise on the best package for you.

13. Are the tours child-friendly or suitable for seniors?

Answer: We offer many family-friendly tour packages and can adjust itineraries to suit travelers of all ages, including children and seniors. We will advise on the difficulty level, travel time, and activities appropriate for each member of your family.

14. Where can I read reviews from previous customers?

Answer: You can find customer reviews and testimonials on our website (if a review section is available), social media pages, or reputable travel platforms like TripAdvisor.

15. What are Golden Trail Travel's sustainability or responsible tourism policies?

Answer: We are committed to practicing responsible and sustainable tourism. We constantly strive to minimize our environmental impact, respect local cultures, and contribute positively to the communities where we operate.

16. What happens if there's an emergency during the trip?

Answer: Your safety is our top priority. Golden Trail Travel has a 24/7 emergency support team. We will provide emergency contact numbers and detailed instructions before your trip. Our guides and local partners are trained to handle emergency situations professionally.

17. Are my payment methods secure?

Answer: Absolutely secure. We use highly encrypted online payment gateways and comply with international standards for data security. Your personal and financial information will be strictly protected.

18. What support will I receive during the trip?

Answer: Yes. Throughout your trip, you will always have the support of your local guide, driver, and Golden Trail Travel's operation team. We will provide a 24/7 support hotline so you can contact us anytime if you have any issues or need assistance.

19. What is included and not included in the tour price?

Answer: Each tour package has clear details on included services (e.g., accommodation, transportation, meals as per itinerary, entrance fees to attractions, tour guide) and exclusions (e.g., international flights, visas, travel insurance, drinks, tips, personal expenses). You will receive a detailed itinerary and an inclusion/exclusion list before confirming your tour booking.

20. What is the typical group size for Golden Trail Travel tours?

Answer: Our tour group sizes can vary depending on the type of tour. For join-in tours, we try to keep the numbers small to ensure a personalized and comfortable experience. We also offer private tours for families or groups of friends upon request.

21. Whom can I contact if I have questions or need assistance before departure?

Answer: Before departure, you can contact our team of consultants via phone, email, or online chat. We are always ready to answer any questions and help you prepare best for your trip.

22. How is Golden Trail Travel committed to sustainable and responsible tourism?

Answer: We are strongly committed to sustainable tourism. This is reflected in our collaboration with responsible local partners, supporting local communities, encouraging travelers to respect culture and environment, and minimizing negative impacts on destinations. Our goal is to benefit both travelers and local people.

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The above price is based on a private tour (Group of 2). It's more reasonable withbigger group size

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