Scenic Northern Vietnam Escape to Hanoi, Mai Chau, Ninh Binh & Bai Tu Long Bay
Overview
Trip Highlights
Overview of 7 Day Northern Vietnam Tour to Hanoi, Mai Chau, Pu Luong, Hoa Lu – Tam Coc & Bai Tu Long Bay
This Northern Vietnam tour package offers a unique journey from majestic mountain landscapes to stunning seascapes. Enjoy a relaxed exploration of the less-traveled northern regions, including the serene Mai Chau Valley and Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Here, you’ll trek along secluded paths to remote villages, immersing yourself in the authentic cultures, lifestyles, and delicious local cuisine of the ethnic communities.
Continue your adventure in Ninh Binh, a peaceful area renowned as a UNESCO Cultural and Natural Heritage site, where a boat tour through Tam Coc caves reveals magnificent limestone pillars, traditional farming practices, and hidden caves.
The tour concludes with a visit to Bai Tu Long Bay, famous for its pristine limestone islands rising from emerald waters, recognized as one of the New7Wonders of Nature.
This Northern Vietnam tour promises a captivating adventure, unveiling the hidden charms of the Northern Vietnam region—a journey of your lifetime experiences
Brief Travel Program : 7 Day Northern Vietnam Tour to Hanoi, Mai Chau, Pu Luong, Ninh Binh & Halong Bay
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Day 1.Hanoi arrival & Hanoi city tour. Overnight in Minasi Premium Hotel ( L)
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Day 2.Hanoi – Mai Chau valley, biking trip to visit local villages. Overnight in Mai Chau Villa (B,L)
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Day 3.Mai Chau hike to visit local villages – Pu Luong, hiking to visit Ban Don, Lan, Co Lung & Hieu villages. Homestay overnight in Ban Hieu village ( B,L, D)
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Day 4.Pu Luong – Ninh Binh, visit Hoa Lu ancient capital & Tam Coc, and biking tour. Overnight in Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel (B,L)
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Day 5.Ninh Binh – Bai Tu Long Bay, kayak to visit Cong Do area. Overnight in Treasure Junk Cruise (B,L,D)
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Day 6. Morning Bai Tu Long bay visit to Vung Vieng Fishing Village – Hanoi. Overnight in Minasi Premium Hotel (B,L)
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Day 7. Hanoi departure ( B)
Why Choose This Northern Vietnam Tour: Key Highlights and Experiences?
- Discover the vibrant attractions of Hanoi, including its bustling streets and delicious local cuisine
- Experience the beauty of less- visited Bai Tu Long Bay with a special overnight cruise on a traditional junk, taking in its majestic landscapes.
- Immerse yourself in local cultures with memorable treks or biking trips to remote villages in Mai Chau and the Pu Luong Nature Reserve.
- Explore the fascinating history of Vietnam’s 10th-11th centuries by visiting the ancient capital of Hoa Lu.
- Take a leisurely boat tour through the Tam Coc caves, rowing with your legs for a unique perspective.
- Savor Vietnamese cuisine at authentic local restaurants throughout the region.
Travel Route Map Northern Vietnam Tour Hanoi- Mai Chau- Pu Luong – Ninh Binh- Halong bay
Itinerary
Upon your arrival at Hanoi airport, our representative will greet you with a sign displaying your name, “Mr/Ms. [Your Name],” along with your flight number ……..and arrival time………
You’ll then be transferred to Hanoi city center & begin a captivating journey through Hanoi’s must-see attractions.
- Ho Chi Minh Complex: Explore the Presidential Palace, a fine example of French architecture, and the Ho Chi Minh House on stilts. This house offers a glimpse into the simple life of Ho Chi Minh, a revered figure in Vietnamese history. Conclude your visit here with the One Pillar Pagoda, renowned for its unique architecture and cultural significance.
- Tran Quoc Pagoda: Visit the oldest pagoda in Hanoi and a key center of Buddhism in the capital.
- Hanoi Old Quarter: Wander through the bustling center of Hanoi, famous for its narrow ancient streets lined with shops selling traditional goods.
- Hanoi Train Street: Wrap up your day with a visit to this iconic location. Relax at a charming café, enjoy a cup of the famous egg coffee or other beverages (at your own expense), and watch the trains pass by. It’s a fantastic spot for memorable photos and soaking up the local ambiance.
After the tour, drive to your hotel, check in, and enjoy some free time at your leisure.
Inclusions : AC car transfer with driver for the airport pick-up & day tour, tourguide of English speaking, entrance sightseeing fees of mentioned visiting places, meals (L- lunch), double/twin shared room in Minasi Premium Hotel or similar
Today, we begin our journey at 8:00 AM, heading towards Mai Chau Valley in Hoa Binh Province. The drive takes approximately 3.5 hours, offering breathtaking views of mountains and valleys along the way. Mai Chau is a picturesque valley home to various ethnic groups, including the White Thai, Black Thai, Muong, Black H’mong, and Tay, who still keep their traditional way of life.
Upon arrival in Mai Chau around noon, check into your homestay or resort and enjoy a local lunch of Vietnamese dishes. After a brief rest, we’ll start a 2-hour biking tour starting at 3:00 PM. This tour will take you through nearby villages where you’ll learn about local life, traditional house styles, and farming activities.
Return to the village for some leisure time before dinner, which is scheduled for around 7:00 PM. After dinner, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in a vibrant cultural show featuring traditional dances and songs performed by the locals (optional). This is a wonderful chance for cultural exchange, where you can join in the dancing, singing, and enjoy local pipe wine (known as “Can” in Vietnamese) with the villagers.
Spend the night in Mai Chau.
Inclusions : AC car transfer with driver Hanoi- Mai Chau, tourguide of English speaking, entrance sightseeing fees of mentioned visiting places, meals (B- breakfast, L- lunch), biking tour, double/twin shared room in Mai Chau valla or similar
Today is our journey to Pu Luong Nature Reserve, where you’ll enjoy a scenic hike through the mountains and valleys of the Pu Luong forest. This trek offers stunning views of mountain landscapes, charming rustic villages, and opportunities to interact with the local Thai ethnic community.
After breakfast, you’ll check out and drive for approximately 1.5 hours to Pu Luong. Your first stop will be Don Village, where you’ll begin a trek down the valley between to Uoi , Lan Trong and Lan Ngoai villages.
The hike continues across Co Lung Village, leading you to Hieu Village, a picturesque spot nestled on a high mountain slope, where the tranquil Hieu Waterfall flows continuously.
You’ll then check into a local homestay with the Black Thai Ethnic community, enjoy a cozy dinner with the family, and spend the night in this welcoming environment.
Inclusions : AC car transfer with driver Mai Chau – Pu Luong, tourguide of English speaking, entrance sightseeing fees of mentioned visiting places, meals (B- breakfast, L- lunch), homestay in Hieu village or similar
Start your day with the serene sounds of roosters crowing, cows grazing, and nearby waterfalls at this tranquil village. It’s the perfect moment to wake up early and enjoy the sunrise.
8:00 A.M. After breakfast, we will say goodbye to our host & take part in a short hike down the main road to meet your driver for a 3.5-hour journey to Ninh Binh.
12:00. Arriving in Hoa Lu ancient capital, you will explore this historical site, which was the seat of power from 968 to 1009. Visit the Dinh Temple, dedicated to Dinh Tien Hoang and his family, and the Le Temple, honoring King Le Dai Hanh and his family. Your guide will provide insights into the history of Vietnam during the 10th and 11th centuries under the Dinh, Le, and Ly dynasties.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing with a rowing boat trip to Tam Coc, also known as “Halong Bay on Land.” Admire the stunning views of mountains and rice paddies along the Ngo River, and glide through the three caves.
After returning to the harbor, take a one-hour bike ride to explore local villages and temples nestled in the scenic landscape, perfect for photography.
17:30. Check into your hotel and enjoy some free time to relax at your leisure.
Inclusions : AC car transfer with driver Pu Luong – Ninh Binh, tourguide of English speaking, entrance sightseeing fees of mentioned visiting places, meals (B- breakfast, L- lunch), boat ride & biking tour, double/twin shared room in Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel or similar
Today is our exploration to Bai Tu Long, the less touristic & untouched bay in Halong bay region.
- 8:00 AM. After breakfast, our driver will pick you up for a scenic 4-hour drive to Halong Bay. The journey will take you through the picturesque Red River Delta, passing by Ninh Binh, Nam Dinh, Thai Binh provinces, Hai Phong city, and finally arriving in Quang Ninh province, where Halong Bay is located.
- 12:00 Arrive at Halong International Harbor.
- 12:30. Get on your cruise via tender. Check in, enjoy welcome drinks, and attend a briefing about the cruise.
- 13:00. Savor a delicious lunch as you sail towards the stunning Bai Tu Long Bay, taking in the breathtaking rock formations along the way.
- 15:00. Kayak in the Cong Do area. Paddle through the tranquil emerald waters, experiencing the serene beauty away from the crowds.
- 17:00 – 18:30. Enjoy the evening from the sundeck, watching the sunset over the dramatic limestone peaks and emerald coves. Sip on drinks and watch a cooking demonstration.
- 19:00. Feast on a sumptuous dinner.
- 21:00. Enjoy free time to relax or try squid fishing.
- 22:30. Overnight stay aboard the cruise in Bai Tu Long Bay.
Inclusions : AC car transfer with driver Ninh Binh- Halong bay, tourguide of English speaking on the cruise, entrance sightseeing fees of mentioned visiting places, meals (B- breakfast, L- lunch, D- dinner), kayay, double/twin shared cabin in Treasure Junk or similar
- 06:15. Marvel at the sunrise over the Bay. Participate in a morning Tai Chi session on the sundeck.
- 07:00. Begin your day with a light breakfast of coffee, tea, and pastries served in the restaurant.
- 07:30. Visit Vung Vieng fishing village. Hop on a bamboo boat to explore the floating village nestled amidst mountains, passing by floating houses and experiencing the tranquil life on the water.
- 09:15. Check-out of cabins and settle bills. Start cruising back to the port.
- 09:30. Enjoy a hearty brunch served at the restaurant.
- 10:45 – 11:00. Return to the port. Bid farewell and disembark.
- 11:15 – 11:30. Get our driver picked up for a journey back to Hanoi. Expected arrival in Hanoi at approximately 14:30-14:45.
Inclusions : AC car transfer with driver Halong bay – Hanoi, tourguide of English speaking on the cruise, entrance sightseeing fees of mentioned visiting places, meals (B- breakfast, L- lunch), rowing boat ride in Vung Vieng villge, double/twin shared room in in Minasi Premium Hotel or similar
After breakfast, you will have free time shopping till our driver pick you up to Hanoi airport for your flight back home or to continue your trip to discover other destinations in Vietnam.
Inclusions : AC car transfer with driver for the airport transfer, meals (B- breakfast)
The Trip’s Inclusions :
- Private car transfer with driver following the travel itinerary.
- Tourguide of English speaking along the travel routes
- Sight seeing entrance fees of mentioned visiting places
- 5 nights in mentioned hotels & homestay
- 1 night on cruise while exploring Bai Tu Long Bay
- Meals as stated in the itinerary ( B- breakfast, L- lunch, D- dinner)
- Biking trip in Mai Chau valley & Ninh Binh
- Rowing boat ride in Tam Coc & Vung Vieng village
The Trip’s Exclusions :
- Personal Expences
- Tips & gratitudes to drivers & guides
- Online payment fees
- 10% VAT (optional)
- Drinks
- Travel services & Places not stated in the program….
Frequently Asked Questions
This comprehensive journey takes you from the historic charm of Hanoi to the emerald rice fields of Mai Chau Valley, Pu Luong Nature Reserve, followed by the dramatic limestone landscapes of Ninh Binh (Halong Bay on land). The tour concludes with an exclusive cruise in Bai Tu Long Bay, a quieter, more pristine alternative to the busier central Halong Bay, offering a perfect blend of culture, trekking, and relaxation.
At Golden Holiday Travel, we prioritize “soul-satisfying” experiences. Bai Tu Long Bay occupies three-quarters of the UNESCO World Heritage area but receives only a fraction of the tourists. By choosing this route, our travelers enjoy cleaner waters, less crowded caves, and more secluded beaches (like Ban Chan or Tra San), providing a more authentic and peaceful connection with nature.
Mai Chau is the ancestral home of the White Thai people. Unlike more commercialized areas, our tour includes an authentic homestay experience in a traditional stilt house. You will have the chance to cycle through the villages of Lac and Pom Coong, witness traditional weaving, and enjoy a local dance performance accompanied by Ruou Can (communal jar wine).
Absolutely. Ninh Binh is a photographer’s paradise. We include visits to Tam Coc or Trang An, where you can capture the iconic “rowing by feet” technique of local boatmen. We also visit Mua Cave, where a climb to the summit rewards you with a breathtaking panoramic view of the Ngo Dong River winding through the karst mountains and rice paddies.
The ideal windows are Spring (March to April) and Autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is pleasantly cool and dry, making it perfect for the trekking in Mai Chau and cycling in Ninh Binh. If you visit in late September or early October, you will also witness the spectacular “Golden Season” when the rice fields turn a brilliant yellow just before harvest.
Good to Know
Before travelling to Vietnam, please ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date and has at least two blank pages for immigration stamps and visa purposes.
Citizens from several countries, including France, Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, and Spain, can currently enter Vietnam visa-free for stays of up to 45 days. Visa policies may change from time to time depending on nationality and travel regulations.
If you intend to stay longer than the visa exemption period, or if your nationality is not included in the visa-free list, you can apply for an e-visa online.You are also welcome to contact our team for updated visa information and travel assistance before your trip to Vietnam.
Travel insurance is not included in our tour package; however, valid travel insurance is mandatory for all participants joining the tour. Your policy should provide adequate coverage for:
- Emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and repatriation
- Trip cancellation, delays, or interruptions
- All activities included in your itinerary, including outdoor and adventure excursions
We also recommend checking whether your credit card offers travel insurance coverage and purchasing additional protection if needed to ensure comprehensive coverage throughout your journey.
The official currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). While some hotels and tourist-oriented businesses may accept US dollars or euros, payments are generally preferred in local currency.
Visa and MasterCard are commonly accepted at most hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, and larger establishments, especially in major cities and tourist destinations. However, cash is still widely used for local markets, small shops, and rural areas.
ATMs are easy to find throughout Vietnam, particularly in cities and popular travel destinations. Currency exchange services are available at international airports, banks, hotels, and licensed exchange counters.
Also, please make sure your banknotes are clean and undamaged, as torn, heavily worn, or marked foreign bills may not be accepted for exchange or payment in Vietnam.
Vietnam is a year-round destination, offering diverse weather patterns across its different regions. In general, spring (February to April) and autumn (September to December) are considered the most comfortable times to visit, thanks to pleasant temperatures, lower humidity, and less rainfall.
As Vietnam stretches over 1,600 km from north to south, the climate can vary greatly depending on where you travel:
- Northern Vietnam: Experiences four distinct seasons, with cool and sometimes chilly winters (December to February) and hot, humid summers (May to August).
- Central Vietnam: Usually enjoys warm weather, though the rainy season typically occurs between September and November.
- Southern Vietnam: Has a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year, alongside occasional tropical showers during the rainy season from May to October.
We recommend packing light, comfortable clothing as well as seasonal items suited to the regions included in your itinerary.
International flights are not included in our tour prices, giving you the flexibility to choose the airline and flight schedule that best suit your travel plans and budget. If needed, our travel consultants are happy to assist you in finding the most convenient and competitive flight options.
For international departures, we highly recommend arriving at the airport at least 3 hours before your flight to allow enough time for check-in, immigration procedures, and any unexpected delays or issues that may arise.
If your itinerary includes domestic flights within Vietnam, all flight schedules, airline information, and booking details will be included in your final travel documents before departure.
For a smooth journey, we recommend arriving at the airport at least 2 hours prior to your flight. Please make sure to carry your passport along with your e-ticket or booking reference.
Baggage Allowance: Checked baggage allowance typically ranges from 20kg to 23kg depending on the airline and ticket class, while cabin baggage is generally limited to 7kg per passenger.
Important Notice: Extra baggage fees may apply for your overweight or oversized luggage. We strongly recommend reviewing the baggage policies of your airline in advance, such as Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, or Bamboo Airways.
Please note that domestic flight schedules may occasionally change due to airline operations or weather conditions. Should there be any updates, our team will inform you as soon as possible.
If your journey includes a connecting domestic flight within Vietnam, please keep the following information in mind upon arrival:
- Collect your checked luggage after landing.
- Complete immigration and customs procedures.
- Proceed to the domestic terminal for your onward flight. At some airports, this may involve a short walk or shuttle transfer between terminals.
- Airport staff are usually available to assist passengers, so feel free to ask for directions or support if needed.
Recommended connection time: at least 2 hours 30 minutes
This allows enough time for immigration clearance, baggage collection, customs procedures, terminal transfers, and possible flight delays.
Practical Tip: At major airports such as Noi Bai International Airport and Tan Son Nhat International Airport, international and domestic terminals may be located in separate buildings. Please follow airport signage carefully and allow sufficient transfer time.
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Scenic Northern Vietnam Escape to Hanoi, Mai Chau, Ninh Binh & Bai Tu Long Bay