Bungalos in Rices terraces , Hoang Su Phi, Ha Giang

SOUL OF THE NORTH:

An Authentic Vietnam Journey

| EVT12A | 12 DAYS |

OPEN TO BE CUSTOMIZED FOR PRIVATE TOUR OR JOINNING SMALL GROUP

Discover the wonders of Vietnam with our carefully crafted 14-day tour program, specially designed to provide you with an unforgettable experience. Our travel experts have meticulously planned every detail to ensure a journey of a lifetime. However, we understand that your preferences may vary, and that's why we offer the option to personalize the program according to your desires. Our dedicated team will work closely with you to create a tailor-made solution that perfectly aligns with your needs. If you find this tour intriguing, please reach out to us with a request. Additionally, feel free to share any additional information or specific requirements you have, enabling us to further customize the program to your satisfaction.

BRIEF ITINERARY

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN HANOI

DAY 2: HANOI CITY TOUR

DAY 3: HANOI - NINH BINH - HANOI

DAY 4: HANOI - HOANG SU PHI

DAY 5: HOANG SU PHI TREKKING

DAY 6: HOANG SU PHI - DONG VAN

DAY 7: DONG VAN KARST GEOPARK TREKKING - MEO VAC

DAY 8: MEO VAC - BAN GIOC WATERFALL

DAY 9: BAN GIOC - LANG SON

DAY 10: LANG SON - HALONG BAY

DAY 11: HALONG BAY - HANOI

DAY 12: HANOI DEPARTURE

DETAILED ITINERARY

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN HANOI

Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam!

Upon your arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by your Epic Vietnam Tours guide and escorted to your hotel via private transfer. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or begin your own exploration of the city.

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, sits along the banks of the Red River and is one of the world’s oldest cities. Here, you’ll discover a blend of well-preserved colonial architecture, ancient Buddhist pagodas, and unique museums. The best way to experience the charm of its Old Quarter is by foot, wandering through narrow streets filled with history. This French-colonial city is also famous for its delectable cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and plenty of opportunities for souvenir shopping.

DAY 2: HANOI CITY TOUR

Immerse Yourself in the Rich History and Culture of Hanoi

Today, you’ll explore Hanoi’s iconic landmarks on a full-day tour, diving deep into the heart of Vietnam's capital city.

Start your journey at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you’ll learn about the revered leader and his significant role in Vietnam's history.

Continue to Uncle Ho’s traditional house-on-stilts, a serene spot surrounded by lush gardens, followed by a visit to the One Pillar Pagoda, a symbol of Hanoi known for its unique architecture.

Next, explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, renowned for its beautiful courtyards and historical significance.

For lunch, savor authentic local cuisine at a charming restaurant in town.

After lunch, you'll have the option to visit one of the following fascinating museums based on your interest:

The Ethnology Museum, showcasing Vietnam's diverse ethnic groups.

The Army Museum, exploring the military history of Vietnam.

The National Fine Arts Museum, featuring traditional and contemporary Vietnamese art.

The Hanoi Hilton (Hoa Lo Prison), a historic prison from the French colonial era.

The Vietnam Women’s Museum, dedicated to the history and achievements of Vietnamese women.

Afterward, take a leisurely stroll or enjoy a cyclo ride through Hanoi's bustling Old Quarter, where you can soak in the atmosphere of this vibrant part of the city.

End your day with a traditional Water Puppet Show, a captivating cultural performance that brings Vietnamese folklore to life on stage.

Prepare for a day filled with discovery, culture, and unforgettable experiences!

DAY 3: HANOI - NINH BINH - HANOI

Explore Ninh Binh: A Day of Natural Wonders and Scenic Views

7:30 AM: Depart from your hotel in Hanoi and head south toward Ninh Binh province via National Highway No. 1. Enjoy the scenic drive through the lush countryside, passing vibrant rice fields and traditional villages.

Tam Coc Sampan Ride

10:00 AM: Arrive at Tam Coc and embark on a 2-hour sampan boat ride along a serene river. Marvel at the breathtaking limestone mountains and mysterious caves adorned with spectacular stalactites. Often called the "Inland Halong Bay," this landscape is famed for its dramatic natural beauty.

After the boat ride, savor a meal of local specialties at a nearby restaurant, immersing yourself in the regional cuisine.

Hang Mua Hike

After lunch, transfer to Hang Mua for a 500-step hike to the summit of Ngoa Long Mountain. At the top, enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the karst landscape, providing a perfect spot for photos and relaxation.

Return to Hanoi

After descending from the summit, make your way back to Hanoi, arriving at your hotel in the afternoon to conclude your day.

DAY 4 : HANOI - HOANG SU PHI

Hanoi to Hoang Su Phi – Journey to the Red Yao Village

8:00 AM: Your private tour guide and driver will meet you at your hotel in Hanoi to begin your journey to Hoang Su Phi.

Drive Duration: The scenic drive to Thong Nguyen commune in Hoang Su Phi takes approximately 7 hours. Along the way, you’ll have opportunities for photo stops to capture the beautiful landscapes and enjoy a lunch break.

Arrival in Thong Nguyen

Upon arrival in Thong Nguyen, you'll check into a homestay in a Red Yao ethnic village. Here, you'll experience the warmth and hospitality of the local community.

Refresh and Relax: Take some time to settle in and refresh after your long journey.

Enjoy a delicious homemade dinner prepared by your host family, giving you a taste of the local cuisine and culture.

DAY 5: HOANG SU PHI TREKKING

Trekking from Thong Nguyen to Nam Son Commune

Itinerary

Full-Day Trek:

Today, you'll embark on a full-day trek from Thong Nguyen Commune to Nam Son Commune. This journey offers breathtaking views of stunning terraced rice fields and picturesque landscapes, providing an immersive experience in nature.

Duration: Expect to spend about 5 to 6 hours on foot. The trek is moderate, with a few small challenges along the way, making it an adventurous and rewarding experience.

A picnic lunch will be prepared for you at a local house along the trek, allowing you to relax, enjoy the surroundings, and taste some local delicacies.

In the evening, you'll arrive at another local house, where a hearty dinner awaits. Enjoy a traditional meal, savoring the flavors of the region.

Spend the night in this peaceful setting, soaking in the tranquility and charm of rural life.

DAY 6: HOANG SU PHI - DONG VAN

Journey to Ha Giang – Karst Geo-Park Exploration

After breakfast, check out of your homestay and begin your scenic drive to the Karst Geo-Park. As you ascend into the highlands of Ha Giang, you'll be treated to incredible photo opportunities along the way, capturing the beauty of Vietnam's rugged northern landscapes.

Stop for lunch at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy regional specialties that reflect the flavors of the area.

Continue your journey through the stunning landscapes. The scenery becomes even more dramatic, featuring towering mountain passes and majestic peaks.

Highlights:Quan Ba Pass: Stop here for a short hike to a viewpoint where you can admire the striking Quan Ba Fairy Mountains.
Village Visits: Take leisurely walks through Pho Cao village, home to the Hmong ethnic group, and Pho Bang village, where the Han (Chinese) people reside. These villages offer a glimpse into the traditional ways of life in this region, providing a rich cultural experience.

Arrive in the peaceful Dong Van town in Ha Giang, where you’ll check in to your hotel for the night.

DAY 7: DONG VAN KARST GEOPARK TREKKING - MEO VAC

Trek Through Karst Geopark – H'mong King Palace and Lung Cu Flag Tower

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or homestay.

Trek Through Karst Geopark:Set off on a scenic 13 km trek that lasts over three hours through magnificent gray limestone mountains. As you trek, immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and observe the daily life of the H'mong people, gaining insight into their rich cultural heritage.

H'mong King Palace:At the end of your trek, arrive at the H'mong King Palace, a captivating historical and cultural site. Take your time exploring this remarkable structure and learning about its significance in the region’s history.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, savoring regional dishes that reflect the local flavors.

Lung Cu Flag Tower:After lunch, visit the Lung Cu Flag Tower, a monument marking the northernmost point of Vietnam. The walk to the tower offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area, perfect for capturing unforgettable photographs.
Transfer to Meo Vac:After your visit, your private vehicle will transfer you to Meo Vac town, where you'll check in to your hotel and relax for a peaceful night.

DAY 8: MEO VAC - BAN GIOC WATERFALL

Morning Departure to Ban Gioc Waterfall

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before boarding your private car for an unforgettable journey to Ban Gioc Waterfall, celebrated as one of the most stunning waterfalls in the world.

Enjoy a picturesque drive that showcases the rugged mountains, expansive rice paddies, and tranquil villages of northern Vietnam. The stunning landscapes along the way will leave you captivated by the region's natural beauty.

Take a break for lunch at a local restaurant, where you can indulge in delicious regional specialties. Relax and recharge before continuing your exploration.

On your route, stop at Phuc Sen Village, a traditional blacksmith village known for its exquisite craftsmanship. Here, you can watch skilled artisans at work, creating high-quality tools using time-honored techniques. This visit offers a unique opportunity to delve into the village’s rich cultural heritage and support local artisans by purchasing one-of-a-kind handmade products.

Arrival at Ban Gioc Waterfall

After your enriching stop at Phuc Sen, continue on to Ban Gioc Waterfall. Arriving in the late afternoon, prepare to be mesmerized by the breathtaking sight of the falls cascading across the Vietnam-China border, a true natural wonder.
Conclude your day by settling into your accommodation near the waterfall, where you can unwind and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings of this stunning destination.

DAY 9 : BAN GIOC - LANG SON

7:00 AM - Breakfast and Check-Out: Begin the day with breakfast and check out from your accommodation.

Ban Gioc Waterfall & Boat Ride:

Visit Ban Gioc Waterfall in Trung Khanh District, on the Vietnam-China border. One of Southeast Asia’s three most beautiful waterfalls.

Take a boat ride to get up close to the waterfall, experiencing the grandeur of cascading waters and lush surroundings.

Phat Tich Pagoda:

Visit Phat Tich Pagoda, a peaceful Buddhist temple offering panoramic views of the waterfall and surrounding landscape. Ideal for reflection and taking in the serene atmosphere.

Nguom Ngao Cave:

After lunch, visit Nguom Ngao Cave, a limestone cave formed around 300 million years ago. Marvel at the impressive stalactites and stalagmites, creating a mystical and awe-inspiring atmosphere.

Lunch: Enjoy a local Vietnamese lunch at a nearby restaurant.

Afternoon Departure to Lang Son:

After the cave visit, depart for Lang Son. The scenic drive through the mountainous terrain offers beautiful landscapes.

Arrive in Lang Son for an overnight stay. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before settling in for the night.

DAY 10 : LANG SON - HALONG BAY

7:30 AM - Departure from Hanoi to Hạ Long Bay

After a delicious breakfast, board your private car for a scenic drive from Hanoi to Hạ Long Bay. Enjoy the picturesque views as you pass through the charming countryside of northern Vietnam, setting the stage for an unforgettable day ahead.
Upon arriving at the pier in Hạ Long City, step aboard your cruise ship and embark on an extraordinary journey through Hạ Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters.

While cruising through the bay, indulge in a delicious lunch on board. Take in the mesmerizing scenery of towering islands and crystal-clear waters as you enjoy your meal amidst the breathtaking surroundings.
After lunch, visit a captivating cave where your guide will lead you through stunning stalactites and stalagmites, unveiling the natural beauty hidden within.

For those seeking adventure, the afternoon offers opportunities to swim, kayak, or simply relax on the sun deck, all while surrounded by the tranquil waters of the bay.
As the day winds down, witness the sunset painting the sky with vibrant colors. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner on board, celebrating the day's experiences amidst the enchanting ambiance of Hạ Long Bay.

DAY 11: HALONG BAY - HANOI

Early Morning: Sunrise & Tai Chi:

Wake up early to witness the captivating sunrise over Halong Bay.

Join a Tai Chi session on the sundeck, designed to rejuvenate your body and mind as you take in the breathtaking views of the bay at dawn.

Breakfast & Continued Exploration:

Enjoy a hearty breakfast on board after your Tai Chi session.

The cruise will continue to explore different areas of Halong Bay, uncovering more hidden treasures and awe-inspiring landscapes.

Brunch & Return to Pier:

A delicious brunch will be served as the boat gradually makes its way back to the pier.

Disembark & Transfer Back to Hanoi:

Arriving at the pier, disembark and transfer back to Hanoi.

In the afternoon, you will arrive in Hanoi and be dropped off at your hotel, concluding your unforgettable Halong Bay experience.

DAY 12 :HANOI DEPARTURE

Final Day in Hanoi: Today marks the end of our incredible journey together. Depending on your departure flight time, you may either have a busy morning preparing for your departure or some leisure time to relax and perhaps do some last-minute shopping.

Explore Hanoi: If your schedule permits, seize this opportunity to explore the vibrant streets and markets of Hanoi one last time. Pick up souvenirs and mementos to remember your time in Vietnam. Indulge in the local cuisine, soak up the lively atmosphere, and enjoy the final moments of your adventure.

Airport Transfer: When the time comes, our team will ensure a smooth transfer to the airport, helping you reach your departure gate in a timely manner.

This sample itinerary is customizable to fit your travel preferences. For the latest pricing, please submit an inquiry with your travel dates, group size, and accommodation preferences, as pricing varies by season and accommodation choice.

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