If you are looking for a unique adventure in Vietnam, join Incredible Asia Journeys on our Private Gateways to North Vietnam tour. This 14-day private tour will take you and your partner from the historic city of Hanoi to the stunning landscapes of Ha Giang province, the northernmost point of Vietnam, and many other mountainous lands such as Sapa, Ha Giang, and Cao Bang. Then, finish your tour at a heritage destination by cruising in Halong Bay.
So, you can discover the rich cultural diversity of the country and explore the hidden gems along the way. Moreover, you will also enjoy delicious local cuisine and create priceless memories together. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the best of Northern Vietnam with us!
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Hanoi Overview
Morning/ Afternoon
Our tour guide will meet you at the Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi) and welcome you to your first day in Vietnam. You will be driven to your hotel in the center of Hanoi. Check-in, unpack, and enjoy some free time to relax.
Evening
You can explore the area on your own by jogging or join a short night tour as below to see the city in a different light with our friendly local guide.
You can also opt for the Hanoi Food Tour by Motorbike at night to experience the lively nightlife of Hanoi locals and sample the best street foods in hidden alleys on motorbikes, the most common way of transportation in Vietnam.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
Visit The First University Of Vietnam Temple Of Literature
Morning
You will enjoy breakfast at your hotel before your tour guide picks you up for a day of sightseeing in Hanoi. You will begin with a visit to the Temple of Literature, the first university of Vietnam and a significant place of learning for many royal dynasties.
Next, you will stop at the One Pillar Pagoda, a unique wooden structure on a single stone pillar. Your guide will explain the history and significance of this pagoda, which resembles a lotus flower, symbolizing purity in Buddhism.
Then, you will head to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you can pay your respects to "Uncle Ho", the beloved leader of Vietnam. You can see his preserved body displayed in a glass case while learning about his remarkable life.
You will have lunch at a traditional Vietnamese restaurant.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, you will visit the Museum of Ethnology, where you can explore the rich diversity and culture of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups.
Afterward, you will return to Hanoi Old Quarter, a charming area known for its historic buildings, antique shops, and traditional restaurants.
Evening
In the evening, you will have the option to spend the rest of the day at your leisure. Alternatively, you can choose from optional activities such as a one-hour cyclo tour or a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
Notes: The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is viewed from the outside. It is closed on Mondays, Fridays, and from June to August.
Duong Lam Village
Morning
You will enjoy breakfast at your hotel before our driver and guide pick you up for the journey to Duong Lam Ancient Village. This village is renowned for being the birthplace of two Vietnamese kings: Phung Hung (761-802) and Ngo Quyen (896-944).
You will join a biking tour through the small ancient alleys, starting with a visit to Mong Phu Temple. You will ride around the village, taking in the peaceful scenery of the rice fields and observing the daily life of Vietnamese farmers.
You will stop at two ancient houses in the village, where you will meet and interact with the local families living there.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant for the taste of a variety of traditional Vietnamese foods.
Afternoon
After lunch, you will pay a visit to the Ngo Quyen and Phung Hung Temples, which are dedicated to 2 of Vietnam's national heroes.
Next, you will move on to Mia Pagoda, a beautiful and serene place of worship.
In the late afternoon, you will be driven back to Hanoi and dropped off at your hotel.
Evening
The rest of the evening is free for you to explore at your own pace. If you need suggestions for evening activities, feel free to reach out to Incredible Asia Journeys for personalized recommendations.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
Have Fun With Locals At Cat Cat Village
Morning
You will start your day with breakfast at your hotel. After breakfast, you will pack your bags and prepare for a transfer to Sapa. Be ready for a lengthy drive, which typically lasts 5.5-6 hours.
Upon arrival in Sapa, you will be greeted by awe-inspiring landscapes filled with mountainous rice terraces, steep valleys, and towering peaks. These breathtaking views are complemented by the presence of ancient ethnic communities living in the region.
After arriving, you will check in to your hotel and take some time to relax.
Lunch will be served at a nearby restaurant.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, you will visit Cat Cat Village, located in the picturesque Muong Hoa Valley. As you walk through the village, you will encounter local vendors selling H'mong handicrafts, homemade corn wine, and naturally colored garments.
You will continue your stroll down a scenic path that leads to a few beautiful waterfalls.
After your exploration, you will return to your hotel to rest and unwind for the remainder of the day.
Evening
The evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure. You can choose to wander around town or explore the vibrant Sapa Night Market, where you can find local goods and street food.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Sapa
Sapa Trekking
Morning
You will start your day with breakfast at your hotel. Afterward, a local tour guide will pick you up to begin your trekking adventure. Your journey will take you through the stunning landscapes of Y Linh Ho and Lao Chai Villages, two of the most famous villages in Sapa.
As you hike, you will discover remnants of a bygone era, including cave dwellings and ancient stone walls surrounding traditional homes.
You will then visit Ta Van Village, home to the Zay people, where you will spend time learning about and experiencing their vibrant culture.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
Afternoon/Evening
After your trek, you will return to Sapa Town where you can spend the rest of the day at your leisure, exploring the town or relaxing.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Sapa
Ma Tra Village
Morning
Start your day with breakfast at your hotel.
At 8:00 AM, your guide will pick you up for a short 5-kilometer car ride to Suoi Thau and Ma Tra Villages. During your visit, you will meet and interact with the Hmong people, a small but deeply rooted local community.
Your adventure continues with a 9-kilometer hike through surrounding towns, villages, and fields of rice and maize.
Be sure to pack a picnic meal, as you will stop to eat on route.
Afternoon
Your hike will bring you to Ta Phin Village, where you can learn about the lifestyles, traditions, and customs of the Red Dzao minority. You can enjoy the serene natural landscapes before heading back to Sapa.
At 4:30 PM, you will return to your hotel for some relaxation, with the rest of the day free for you.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Sapa
Lung Cu Flag Tower - Ha Giang Province
Morning
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, then prepare to check out.
You will join a journey to Ha Giang with our guide, traveling by shuttle bus. Located on the border with China, Ha Giang is home to 17 distinct ethnic minority groups.
The distance from Sapa to Ha Giang is approximately 235 kilometers, and the drive will take about 7 hours.
Afternoon
pon arrival in Ha Giang, your guide will assist with checking you into your hotel. After that, you are free to enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, whether relaxing or exploring your surroundings.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Ha Giang
Ha Giang - Dong Van
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Dong Van
Cao Bang Province
Morning
After you enjoy breakfast, you will join the Dong Van Kermess, a lively weekly festival in the town center. This festival is an excellent opportunity to observe different ethnic groups meeting for trade, fun, and communication.
You will then drive towards Meo Vac via the Ma Pi Leng Pass, one of the highest and most scenic mountain passes along the Vietnam border. The view from the pass will show you a breathtaking sight of the Nho Que River below.
Upon arriving at Meo Vac Village, you will have the chance to explore and immerse yourself in the local culture. You will then have lunch at a restaurant recommended by the community.
Afternoon
After lunch, you will take a peaceful rowing boat trip on the Nho Que River.
In the late afternoon, you will head towards Cao Bang, where you will check in at your hotel. You will have the rest of the day to relax.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Cao Bang
Ba Be Lake
Morning
You will enjoy breakfast at your hotel before departing for the Ban Gioc Waterfall, a stunning natural wonder located on the border between China and Vietnam. This waterfall is one of the four largest transnational waterfalls in the world, drawing many visitors with its beauty and charm.
Afterward, you will visit the Nguom Ngao Cave, a nearby attraction known for its incredible stalactites and rock formations. The cave features a wild, majestic beauty, untouched by human intervention.
You will then head towards Ba Be Lake, where you can relax and rejuvenate in a fresh and peaceful atmosphere.
Afternoon
Once you arrive at Ba Be Lake, you will check into your hotel and unwind after a full day of exploration.
The rest of the day will be free for you to enjoy as you wish.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Homestay in Ba Be
Enjoy The Magnificent View Of Hua Ma Cave
Morning
You will have a hearty breakfast before beginning your day.
You can also visit Hua Ma Cave, another remarkable cave in the area. This cave not only offers stunning natural beauty, but it also carries interesting stories tied to mysterious legends. Hua Ma Cave impresses visitors with its beauty and the artistic features formed by nature.
Afterward, you will take a shuttle bus back to Hanoi.
Afternoon
Upon arrival in Hanoi, you will check in at your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
Notes: Check-in time is available at 14:00. If you wish to secure an early check-in, an additional charge will apply. The rest of the day is free for leisure, allowing you to rest and recharge for the next journey.
Ha Long Bay Overview
Morning
You will enjoy your breakfast at your hotel.
Around 8:30 AM, the shuttle bus or limousine car will pick you up from the Old Quarter and take you to the Hanoi - Halong highway.
From 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM, you will arrive at the departure harbor and complete the check-in procedures.
Afterward, you will board a tender or shuttle boat to reach the main cruise and begin your relaxing journey on Halong Bay.
Halong Bay is a world-famous tourist destination known for its unique limestone islands, beautiful beaches, and amazing cave system. In the central area, you will also find entertainment venues, such as arcades and bowling alleys, where you can have fun or wander around.
Afternoon
You will enjoy a delicious lunch prepared on board.
Evening
You will have a nice dinner on board and spend the night while the cruise anchors.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Halong Bay overnight cruise
Notes: The deliberated activities are subject to the cruise's itinerary and may differ from cruise to cruise. So, if you want to read more details, please contact Incredible Asia Journeys to get the itinerary accordingly.
Kayaking in Halong Bay
Morning
You will start your day with some Tai Chi on the calm waters of Halong Bay, a wonderful way to energize yourself.
You will continue cruising to different areas, where you can swim, kayak, and explore caves along the way.
After your cruise, you will get off at the harbor and take a shuttle bus or limousine to return to Hanoi city.
Afternoon
You will enjoy some free time to do whatever you like. If you prefer, you can follow the suggestions of our guide.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
Notes: These activities will vary across different cruise lines, so they may not be standardized. Contact us to choose your expected Halong Bay overnight cruise to read the detailed information.
You will have the entire morning on day 14 free to pack your suitcase and enjoy breakfast.
Our guide will take you to the airport according to your flight time.
This marks the end of your journey in Vietnam with Incredible Asia Journeys. As a Vietnam Tour Operator, we are pleased to have assisted you throughout your trip and are honored by the trust you have placed in us! We hope you had a memorable experience, and we look forward to welcoming you again in the future.
Meals: Breakfast
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline
What makes you choose a hotel when you travel to other countries? In Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, we have an excellent International 4 Star hotel, Sunway Hotel Hanoi, owned and managed by Sunway International Hotels & Resorts which operates 14 hotels in Asean. This luxury hotel has 145 high-quality rooms and is located in Pham Dinh Ho Street, Hai Ba Trung District, one of the most famous historic districts in Hanoi. It is near many Hanoi’s tourist attractions such as: Hoan Kiem Lake, Old Quarter,... Especially, it only takes you 45 minutes to go there from the Noi Bai International Airport. Going there, you will find it easy to access to Hanoi’s commercial, business and entertainment spots. Moreover, you can not only enjoy wonderful sense of traditional appeal & modern pleasures but also have great Vietnamese fare at Allante Restaurant, one of the best restaurants in Hanoi. After the trip with this hotel, we are sure that you will never regret about your choice.
Movenpick Hotel lies in the heart of Hanoi’s central business district, 40-minute drive away from Noi Bai International Airport. Movenpick Hotel possesses a distinctive French architecture style with 154 well-appointed rooms and suites offering cable channels. Deluxe Mangosteen restaurant serves buffet of international dishes. A continental breakfast is offered at Lounge 83 along with pastries, light refreshments and a selection of wine. For well-being, head to Kinetic Gym and Wellness Studio. Free parking, currency exchanges and car rental are also available to meet the demand of both business and leisure travelers. The hotel is the base from which to explore nearby attractions in the timeless city of Hanoi.
Less than 45 minutes from Noi Bai (HAN) International Airport, Hilton Hanoi Opera hotel is at the center of the upmarket Hoan Kiem district. The hotel is built along the backdrop of the Opera Theatre in Hanoi. Wandering through the wide, tree-lined boulevards and sample the sidewalk cafés and fine-dining restaurants of the Old French Quarter enables guests escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of Hoan Kiem Lake. The Hilton Opera House hotel also offers car rental facilities, florist, gift shop and newsstand. The hotel has the latest Health Club facilities including a fitness center, sauna, whirlpool and massage center, a swimming pool with its own snacks and bar service. Visitors also have chances to relaxing in the comfort of a traditionally furnished Vietnamese room with high-speed internet access, cable TV and separate work areas. Voted “Vietnam's Leading Hotel” for five consecutive years by the prestigious World Travel Awards, the Hilton Hanoi Opera is a landmark in the city.
Located 5,415 ft above sea level and offering a view of Hoang Lien Mountain Range, the 3-star Bamboo Sapa Hotel is a retreat with modern rooms, free Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service and a large bar. The rooms at the Bamboo Sapa feature air conditioning, satellite TV, minibar and private bathroom with a bathtub or shower. Most rooms have a balcony. Bamboo Sapa Hotel includes tour arrangements, foreign currency exchange and laundry. Train station pick-up service from Laocai is available. Bamboo Bar is the largest bar in Sapa and features a variety of beverages, local music and traditional performances.
Enjoying beautiful views of Violet Valley and Fansipan Mountain, Sunny Mountain Hotel in Sapa offers an indoor swimming pool and pampering spa treatments. Fitted with free Wi-Fi, its well-decorated guestrooms are modern yet reflect elements of the tribal hill people. Facing the city, gardens or mountains, the spacious air-conditioned rooms come with a satellite TV, minibar and personal safe. Some rooms include a private balcony. En suite bathrooms are equipped with either a bathtub or shower, as well as free toiletries. Sunny Mountain Hotel is a 30-minute drive from Lao Cai City and a 6-hour train ride from Hanoi. Airport transfers are available at an extra charge. There is also free on-site parking. At the spa, guests can relax with a massage or soak in the hot tub. Staff at the tour desk can also help to arrange mountain guides, village homestays, adventure climbing and trekking. A business centre and laundry services are also available. The on-site restaurant serves both Vietnamese and international dishes. Marvel at the sunset at the open terrace bar while jazz or local tribal music plays in the background. In-room dining is possible with room service.
Topas Ecolodge is a quaint and charming mountain property where guests can freely mingle with the ethnic villagers. A free shuttle bus operates daily to and from Sa Pa Town. Besides admiring the beautiful scenery, other activities include cycling or simply enjoying the free Wi-Fi in the public areas. Stone walls and wooden furnishings add to the rustic feel of the guestrooms. Guests have a choice of heated or air-conditioned rooms, all equipped with a minibar and a private bathroom. Topas Ecolodge is located within Ban Lach Village overlooking Hoang Lien Mountain Range. It is 18 km from Sa Pa Town and 38 km from Hoang Lien National Park Visitor Centre. Lao Cai Train Station is 53 km away. A daily breakfast buffet is served at the lodge's restaurant. Asian dishes are also available throughout the day. Day trips and packed lunches can be arranged at the tour desk. Valuables can be stored at the front desk's safety deposit boxes.
Sunny Hotel belongs to Song Bang Mechanical Cooperative. The hotel is located in the heart of Cao Bang city, including 75 3-star standard rooms, equipped with modern facilities. The location of Sunny Cao Bang Hotel is really convenient for visitors to visit, relax or come to work. Coming to Sunny Cao Bang hotel, you will enjoy the friendly atmosphere, professional service style of experienced staff. We will provide our guests with excellent services.
Minh Quang Homestay: Located in Ba Be, Minh Quang homestay features free WiFi, a shared lounge, garden and terrace. This homestay serves an Asian breakfast every morning. Bicycles are available to explore the surroundings and Minh Quang homestay can arrange bicycle rental. Couples especially like this place.
Pac Ngoi Village Homestay has a garden, terrace, a restaurant and bar in Ba Be. This 3-star hotel offers room service and a 24-hour front desk. Guests can enjoy mountain views. The hotel will provide guests with air-conditioned rooms offering a desk, a kettle, a fridge, an oven, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, a balcony and a private bathroom with a bidet. The rooms have a wardrobe. A buffet, continental or Asian breakfast is available each morning at the property.
V'Spirit Cruise is one of the most luxury cruise in Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay. V'Spirit Cruise with 18 cabins and all cruises with balcony will offer travellers with the best experience when you visit Halong Bay.The concept of V'Spirit Cruise is combined between classic style of a junk cruise and a modern cruise with luxury facility. The V'Spirit Cruise looks like a junk boat but it is a steel cruise with luxury facility to offer a good experience but safety and travellers can experience a luxury trip to Halong Bay.With unique itinerary, V'Spirit Halong Bay will bring the best trip for travellers who wish to experience the best of Halong Bay from cave visiting, kayaking, swimming, sampan boat, beach swimming to cycling on island.There are 2 day and 3 day itinerary for travellers to choose when you visit Halong Bay. Enjoy your trip in Halong Bay with V'Spirit Cruise and you will not regret of choosing this cruise.
As the name suggests, a Halong Bay tour on the Paradise Luxury Cruise is exactly that; a luxurious cruise through paradise. The Paradise Luxury Cruise has a unique blend of contemporary chic with ancient Vietnamese artisanship. Classical dark wood and its fine detailing create an air of affluence with the modern amenities throughout the ship; a marriage of pure romance. Our dining room is one of the utmost sophistication, offering an astounding unlimited a la carte menu and free flow on certain beverages. You can find the best views upstairs on the open sundeck where nothing will block your panoramic views of the dramatic limestone mountains. The tranquil onboard day spa promises a soothing experience and is one of the many reasons why Paradise Luxury Cruise is leading the way in high-end cruising around Halong Bay. Now it's easier to choose one of the best Halong Bay cruises for a family, friends, and couples.
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Incredible Asia Journeys - Vietnam Tour Operator and Cruise Packages
