HANOI’S WARM WELCOME
From the moment you step into Hanoi, the capital greets you with its warm embrace—chaotic, charming, and endlessly alive.
BA BỂ LAKE – MYSTICAL WATERS AND VILLAGE WONDERS
After settling in, the journey unfolds toward the mystical waters of Ba Bể Lake, where legends linger in the Fairy Pond and An Ma Temple, and village life offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s cultural soul. Hidden in the surrounding landscapes, Hua Ma Cave and the Silver Waterfall set the stage for nature’s quiet wonders before the road carries you into the heart of Cao Bang.
CAO BANG’S NATURAL MARVELS & HISTORIC ECHOES
Here, the thundering majesty of Ban Gioc Waterfall steals the spotlight, its mist rising against dramatic limestone cliffs. Nearby, the surreal beauty of Ngườm Ngao Cave, golden tobacco fields, and the mysterious Holy Eye Mountain unfold like scenes from a living postcard.
History whispers at Pac Bo Cave and in Nà Mạ Paper Village, where revolution and tradition still echo through the mountains of Cao Bang. The adventure continues to the jade-green waters of the Nho Que River, guarded by towering karst mountains that define the gateway to Ha Giang.
THE NORTHERN HEIGHTS OF HA GIANG & SAPA
The northern heights of Vietnam await with the iconic Lung Cu Flagpole and the spectacular Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, where stone landscapes tell stories as old as time. In Thon Tha Village, you’ll find simple charm, warm smiles, and the rare treat of a herbal bath crafted by locals.
From here, the road winds into Sapa, a place where mountains and rice terraces cradle villages rich in culture and hospitality. Time in Sapa Town, the dizzying curves of Ô Quy Hồ Pass, and the cascading beauty of the Silver Waterfall lead you deeper toward Mu Cang Chai, where endless rice terraces paint the hillsides.
TIMELESS VALLEYS & COUNTRYSIDE TREASURES
Every turn southward opens new chapters: the tranquil Tu Le Valley and Muong Lo, with hot springs and the graceful Xòe Thai dance heritage; the rustic heart of Mai Chau, where rice paddies stretch into the horizon; and the hidden world of Pu Luong, where the Nature Reserve invites you to trek, discover waterfalls, and share in village life.
Finally, the journey slows in Ninh Binh, drifting through Trang An, climbing to the lookout of Mua Cave, and pausing at the serene Bich Dong Pagoda, before circling back to Hanoi.
DAILY ITINERARY INTRODUCTION
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Day 1: Welcome to Hanoi’s Old Quarter
Upon arrival at Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport, you’ll be greeted by the Truly Voyage team at Pillar 9 for a comfortable transfer to your hotel in the heart of the bustling Old Quarter. Take time to relax and recover from your journey, or—if you’re feeling curious—head out for a gentle stroll through the lively streets. The Old Quarter is a sensory feast, filled with the aroma of sizzling street food, the charm of colonial-era facades, and the hum of scooters weaving through narrow lanes.
✨ Travel Tip: Head to bed early tonight—an exciting adventure awaits tomorrow!
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Day 2: Ba Bể Lake – Mystical Waters & Village Life
Start: 8:00 AM | Travel Time: 6–7 hours
Leave Hanoi behind as you journey through winding roads, lush countryside, and dramatic mountain scenery en route to Ba Bể Lake. Stop for a hearty lunch at a local restaurant before diving into the region’s highlights: the peaceful Fairy Pond, the sacred An Ma Temple, and a tranquil bamboo raft ride across the emerald waters of Ba Bể. Later, wander through Coc Toc Village, home to the Tay ethnic community, where traditional life unfolds against a backdrop of rice fields and stilt houses.
🏨 Overnight at Lake View Hotel, with stunning views over Ba Bể’s mystical waters.
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Day 3: Hua Ma Cave & Silver Waterfall – Into the Highlands
Start: 8:00 AM | Travel Time: 3–4 hours
This morning, step into the depths of Hua Ma Cave, where striking stalactites and stalagmites create a dazzling underground world. Continue to the refreshing Silver Waterfall, a picture-perfect stop surrounded by lush greenery. After an early lunch at 11:00 AM, journey onward through scenic mountain passes to Cao Bang. Upon arrival, settle into a cozy homestay along the tranquil Bang Giang River, where peaceful waters and quiet village life set the tone for the evening.
🏡 Overnight in Cao Bang.
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Day 4: Ban Gioc Marvels – Waterfalls, Caves & Mountain Mysteries
Start: 8:00 AM | Travel Time: 2–3 hours (round trip)
Today’s journey reveals the natural and cultural gems of Cao Bang. Begin with a walk through lush tobacco fields and a stop at the traditional Incense Village, where fragrant craft traditions still thrive. Continue through the mysterious Mountain Tunnel before reaching the crown jewel of the region—Ban Gioc Waterfall—one of Vietnam’s largest and most spectacular cascades. After soaking in its thundering beauty, step into the glittering chambers of Nguom Ngao Cave, unwind by the peaceful waters of Ban Viet Lake, and admire the striking cliffs of Holy Eye Mountain.
🏡 Return to Ban Gioc and spend the evening at a welcoming local homestay.
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Day 5: Pac Bo Cave & Na Mạ Village – Echoes of History
Start: 8:00 AM | Travel Time: 2–3 hours
Begin the day at the ancient Fig Tree, a silent witness to centuries of local history, before continuing to the storied Pac Bo Cave, where Ho Chi Minh lived and worked during the revolutionary years. From history to tradition, your journey then leads to Na Mạ Paper Village, where families craft handmade paper using age-old techniques, and the Embroidery Village, famed for its intricate textiles. By late afternoon, return to Cao Bang City, where you can relax and sample regional specialties.
🏨 Overnight in Cao Bang.
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Day 6: Nho Que River – Gateway to Ha Giang’s Karst Beauty
Start: 8:00 AM | Travel Time: 6–7 hours
Leave Cao Bang behind as you journey deeper into Vietnam’s northern frontier. The road winds through breathtaking mountain passes before leading you to the emerald waters of the Nho Que River, one of the highlights of the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark. Pause here to take in the spectacular scenery—or opt for a short boat ride to truly appreciate the towering limestone cliffs that rise dramatically on either side. By late afternoon, continue onward to Meo Vac, where you’ll settle into a charming Meo Vac Clay House, a traditional Hmong-style homestay.
🏡 Overnight in Meo Vac, surrounded by the peace of nature.
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Day 7: Lung Cu Flagpole & Dong Van Karst Plateau – Vietnam’s Northern Heights
Start: 8:00 AM | Travel Time: 4–5 hours
This morning, depart Meo Vac and journey to Lung Cu Flagpole, the proud northernmost point of Vietnam, where sweeping views stretch across the borderlands. Continue through the UNESCO-recognized Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, pausing at scenic viewpoints to take in its dramatic limestone landscapes shaped over millions of years. By afternoon, arrive at Thon Tha Village, home to the Tay ethnic community, with its charming stilt houses and peaceful rural atmosphere. Here, you can unwind with a soothing traditional herbal bath and learn about local craft-making.
🏨 Overnight in Ha Giang Town.
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Day 8: Sapa – Rice Terraces & Highland Culture
Start: 6:00 AM | Travel Time: 6 hours
Rise early for a scenic drive from Ha Giang to Sapa, passing through winding mountain roads and breathtaking valleys (6:00 AM – 12:00 PM). Upon arrival, enjoy a delicious lunch at Phạm’s House, where sweeping views of the Mường Hoa Valley set the perfect backdrop.
In the afternoon, explore Lao Chai Village, where traditional homes sit among cascading rice terraces, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the Black Hmong people (1:00 – 2:00 PM). Continue on to Tả Van Village (2:00 – 4:00 PM), a serene community surrounded by lush hillsides, where you’ll meet locals and soak in the quiet beauty of the valley.
From 4:00 PM onwards, return to your homestay for an evening of rest, cultural interaction, or optional village activities.
🏡 Overnight in Sapa.
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Day 9: Sapa Town, Ô Quy Hồ Pass & Silver Waterfall
Start: 8:00 AM | Travel Time: 3–4 hours
08:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Begin the day exploring Sapa Town, where bustling local markets showcase colorful textiles, fresh produce, and the vibrant spirit of ethnic communities. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant before heading into the mountains.
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Journey across the spectacular Ô Quy Hồ Pass, one of Vietnam’s most scenic mountain roads, offering panoramic views of the Hoàng Liên Son range.
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Continue to the Silver Waterfall, a majestic cascade plunging down the green slopes—a refreshing highlight of Sapa’s natural wonders.
4:00 PM onwards: Travel to Mu Cang Chai, famous for its endless rice terraces. Settle in for a peaceful overnight stay and enjoy the rustic charm of the countryside.
🌙 Overnight in Mu Cang Chai.
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Day 10: Mu Cang Chai – Terraced Wonders & Valley Life
Start: 8:30 AM | Travel Time: Local exploration
08:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Begin your morning amid the breathtaking rice terraces of Mu Cang Chai. Visit the famous Rice Tray and Horse Feet Rice Field, where the artistry of generations has carved cascading green steps into the mountainsides. Immerse yourself in the local culture as you take in these iconic landscapes.
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM: Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant, savoring regional specialties that reflect the flavors of the highlands.
12:30 PM – 4:00 PM: Spend the afternoon continuing your exploration of Mu Cang Chai’s terraced valleys, soaking in the serene atmosphere and admiring views that shift with every turn.
4:00 PM: Travel to Nghĩa Lộ and settle into a cozy homestay. Experience warm hospitality, rural charm, and perhaps an introduction to the Xòe Thai dance, a cultural treasure of the region.
🏡 Overnight in Nghĩa Lộ.
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Day 11: Mai Chau – Heart of Countryside Charm
Start: 8:00 AM | Travel Time: 5–6 hours
Travel south to the peaceful valley of Mai Chau, a picturesque haven surrounded by emerald mountains and endless rice paddies. Upon arrival, explore the charming Pom Coong Village and Lac Village, where traditional Thai stilt houses and vibrant handicrafts reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region.
In the afternoon, take a scenic bike ride or short trek through the rice fields, winding paths, and quiet lanes—an ideal way to soak in the beauty and tranquility of rural life. As the sun sets, gather for a traditional dinner featuring regional specialties such as grilled fish, bamboo sticky rice, and local herbs, all served with warm hospitality.
🏡 Overnight in a Mai Chau homestay.
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Day 12: Pu Luong – Threads of Tradition & Nature’s Beauty
Start: 8:00 AM | Travel Time: 2–3 hours
Depart Mai Chau for the serene landscapes of Pu Luong Nature Reserve, a hidden gem where terraced fields meet forested mountains.
Along the way, stop at Lang Det Tho Cam Village, renowned for its handwoven blankets and vibrant textiles, a craft passed down through generations. Continue through Lac Village and Pom Coong Village to observe daily life and traditional craft-making at a gentle pace.
As the day winds down, settle into a cozy homestay in Pu Luong, surrounded by the sounds of nature and the tranquil rhythm of rural life. This is the perfect place to pause, breathe deeply, and let the beauty of the mountains embrace you.
🏡 Overnight in Pu Luong.
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Day 13: Pu Luong – A Journey Into the Wild
Start: 8:30 AM | Full Day Trekking
Set off on a full-day trek through the pristine landscapes of Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Follow hidden trails that wind across terraced rice fields, bamboo forests, and crystal-clear streams, each turn revealing new layers of beauty.
Along the way, pass through remote villages dotted with traditional stilt houses and meet the warm ethnic communities who call this peaceful mountain region home.
Pause to take in sweeping views of rolling hills and valleys—a photographer’s dream—and immerse yourself in the tranquil rhythm of nature. By late afternoon, return to your Pu Luong homestay, where a well-earned rest awaits after a day of adventure.
🏡 Overnight in Pu Luong.
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Day 14: Ninh Binh – Wonders of Trang An, Mua Cave & Bich Dong Pagoda
Start: 8:00 AM | Travel Time: 4–5 hours
Depart Pu Luong for Ninh Binh, a region often called “Ha Long Bay on Land” for its striking limestone karsts rising from emerald-green waters.
Upon arrival, enjoy a serene boat ride through Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage site of caves, rivers, and towering cliffs. Next, explore the ancient Bich Dong Pagoda, a peaceful temple nestled into the mountainside.
End the afternoon with a climb up Mua Cave, where panoramic views of Tam Coc’s rice fields and river valleys reward your effort.
By evening, return to Hanoi to settle back into the lively capital.
🏨 Overnight in Hanoi.
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Day 15: Farewell Hanoi – A Journey Through Coffee
Round off your Vietnam adventure with a sensory experience at the Hanoi Coffee Workshop, where the rich aroma of freshly brewed beans fills the air. Here, you’ll discover four distinct and beloved Vietnamese coffee styles, each prepared with the traditional Phin filter:
- Bold, robust, and aromatic, this pure brew captures the essence of Vietnamese coffee culture.
- A creamy, dessert-like indulgence made from whipped egg yolks and sweetened coffee.
- A smooth and balanced blend of strong coffee with condensed milk.
- A delicate variation, lightened with fresh milk for a gentler flavor.
As you sip and savor, let the stories, flavors, and traditions of Hanoi’s coffee culture transport you to the city’s bustling streets one last time.
🕒 Workshop sessions: 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM | Duration: 2 hours
- Bold, robust, and aromatic, this pure brew captures the essence of Vietnamese coffee culture.
