From Hanoi: Highlights North Vietnam 5 Days Tour

This North Vietnam tour provides an immersive glimpse into the region’s enthralling landscapes, vibrant culture, and historic sites. Travelers will venture beyond Hanoi to explore picturesque Sapa, serene Halong Bay, and the verdant Ninh Binh province. With a balanced blend of activity, comfort, and cultural discovery, the itinerary promises an excellent value for those seeking to experience the area’s top attractions. From scenic village hikes to traditional cooking classes, this 5-day journey offers a compelling introduction to the allure of northern Vietnam. What awaits those who set out on this adventure?

Key Points

• This 5-day tour explores the diverse landscapes, rich culture, and historic sites of North Vietnam, starting and ending in Hanoi.
• The tour includes visits to Sapa, Halong Bay, and Ninh Binh, offering a balance of activity, comfort, and culture.
• Highlights include trekking through the Sapa countryside, kayaking in Halong Bay, and experiencing Vietnamese cooking and tai chi.
• The tour provides 4 nights of accommodation, including a homestay, cruise, and hotel stays, with most meals included.
• The tour is an excellent way to experience the highlights of North Vietnam at a reasonable price point.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This five-day North Vietnam tour offers travelers a thorough glimpse into the region’s diverse landscapes, rich culture, and historic sites. It’s the perfect balance of activity, comfort, and culture.

The tour kicks off in Hanoi, exploring nearby Sapa before setting out on a luxury cruise through the breathtaking Halong Bay. Travelers will also venture to Ninh Binh to uncover ancient kingdoms and picturesque river landscapes.

Throughout the journey, they’ll enjoy locally-sourced meals, stay in a mix of hotels and a cozy homestay, and engage in activities like kayaking, tai chi, and Vietnamese cooking. With extensive inclusions and a reasonable price point, this tour is an excellent way to experience the highlights of North Vietnam.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes a detailed list of activities and services, such as hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by shared bus, English-speaking guide, and a 2-day cruise in Halong Bay.

Travelers will enjoy 4 nights of accommodation, including a homestay, cruise, and hotel stays. Plus, the package includes 4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 2 dinners, as well as the following experiences:

• Kayaking in Halong Bay
• Tai Chi class
• Vietnamese cooking class
• Boat trip in Ninh Binh

While the tour covers many inclusions, it excludes alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, personal expenses, tips, and any surcharges for single cabins/rooms, holidays, or Lunar New Year.

Itinerary Day 1

The tour begins with a journey from Hanoi to the picturesque town of Sapa, located in the heart of the northern Vietnamese highlands. Upon arrival, the group will explore the Lao Chai and Ta Van villages, seeing the rich culture and traditions of the local ethnic minority groups.

Activity	Duration
Drive from Hanoi to Sapa	4-5 hours
Explore Lao Chai Village	1-2 hours
Explore Ta Van Village	1-2 hours
Return to Sapa	1 hour

The day’s journey allows travelers to witness the stunning landscapes and gain a deeper understanding of the vibrant communities that call this region home.

Itinerary Day 2

On the second day, travelers continue their exploration of Sapa’s natural wonders with a trek through the villages, where they’ll visit a bamboo forest and a picturesque waterfall before returning to Hanoi.

A guided trek through the lush Sapa countryside, passing by traditional villages and learning about the local culture.

A visit to a serene bamboo forest, offering a peaceful respite from the outside world.

A stop at a stunning waterfall, where travelers can admire the rushing waters and take in the scenic beauty.

The return journey to Hanoi, providing an opportunity to reflect on the day’s adventures and prepare for the next leg of the tour.

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Itinerary Day 3

After exploring the Sapa region, travelers commence the third day of the tour, journeying from Hanoi to the renowned Halong Bay.

They’ll board a luxury cruise ship and set sail through the stunning limestone karsts that dot the emerald waters.

The day’s activities include a kayaking excursion, allowing guests to paddle through the serene coves and caves.

Later, they’ll participate in a tai chi class on the top deck, before enjoying a cooking demonstration where they’ll learn to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes.

As the sun sets, travelers will savor a delicious dinner aboard the cruise ship, taking in the breathtaking scenery of Halong Bay.

Itinerary Day 4

Passengers wake up early and enjoy breakfast aboard the luxury cruise ship as it continues its journey through the mesmerizing landscapes of Halong Bay.

The day is filled with exciting activities:

• Guests have the opportunity to kayak through the tranquil emerald waters, exploring the hidden coves and caves that dot the bay.
• They can participate in a Tai Chi class on the sun deck, taking in the breathtaking views as they practice the graceful movements.
• A visit to a small floating village allows travelers to witness the unique way of life of the local fishermen.

Before disembarking, passengers have one last chance to savor the beauty of Halong Bay as the cruise ship makes its way back to the mainland.

Itinerary Day 5

From Halong Bay, the tour journeys to Ninh Binh, where travelers explore the ancient kingdom of Hoa Lu and the scenic Tam Coc region.

At Hoa Lu, they’ll discover the remains of the 10th-century capital, learning about Vietnam’s rich history.

Next, they’ll commence a tranquil boat trip through the Tam Coc waterways, surrounded by striking limestone cliffs and verdant rice fields.

The tour then returns to Hanoi, marking the end of this all-encompassing exploration of northern Vietnam’s highlights.

With a perfect blend of culture, natural wonders, and comfortable accommodations, this 5-day tour provides an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking to discover the mesmerizing beauty and heritage of this vibrant region.

Tour Restrictions

The tour’s restrictions exclude pregnant women, wheelchair users, and individuals over 95 years of age from participation. This is due to the physical demands of the itinerary, which includes:

• Trekking through Sapa’s villages and bamboo forests
• Kayaking in the stunning Halong Bay
• Exploring the ancient kingdom of Hoa Lu in Ninh Binh
• Maneuvering boat trips and other activities that may pose challenges for those with mobility limitations.

The tour operator prioritizes the safety and comfort of all travelers, ensuring the experience is accessible to as many people as possible while acknowledging certain physical constraints. Prospective participants are advised to carefully consider these restrictions before booking the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

The tour policy generally does not allow guests to bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. All meals and beverages are included in the tour package and provided by the cruise operator.

Is There a Dress Code for the Vietnamese Cooking Class?

There is no specific dress code for the Vietnamese cooking class. Participants should wear comfortable clothing they don’t mind getting dirty. Casual attire that allows easy movement is recommended, as the class involves hands-on cooking activities.

Can I Extend My Stay in Halong Bay for an Additional Night?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Halong Bay for an additional night. This can be arranged directly with the cruise operator, though additional fees may apply. The tour’s itinerary can be adjusted to accommodate the extended stay.

How Much Should I Budget for Tips During the Tour?

The tour includes an estimated budget of $5-$10 per person per day for tips to be distributed among the local guides, drivers, and service staff. Exact tip amounts may vary based on individual preferences and quality of service.

Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Transfer Instead of Shared Bus?

Yes, there is an option to upgrade to a private transfer instead of the shared bus. This can be arranged at an additional cost and should be requested when booking the tour.

Recap

This 5-day tour through North Vietnam offers an exceptional value for exploring the region’s mesmerizing landscapes, vibrant culture, and historic sites.

Travelers will experience a balanced mix of activities, comfort, and culture, with highlights including hiking, kayaking, and learning traditional Vietnamese cooking.

The tour provides locally-sourced meals, a mix of hotels and a homestay, and the convenience of visiting the top attractions in the area.

You can check if your dates are available here: