Northeast Vietnam 12 Days - Private Tour

Hanoi

Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietna

Day 1

Hanoi

Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietna

Days 8-9

Hanoi City Tour

Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietna

Day 9

Hanoi

Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietna

Days 11-12

Hanoi City Tour

Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietna

Day 12

172 Views

12 Days From

~~$3646~~

$1787

Tour Overview

An ideal Northern Vietnam Expedition 12 Days can satisfy the thirst of explorers. After leisure in a great convenient city, head to the far north of Vietnam, where the off-beat locations are awaiting their real soulmates. Travelers are in with a chance to savor an authentic life of ethnic minorities. Trekking, hiking, spectacular mountains, shark tooth peaks, canyons, waterfalls, rivers, lakes, valleys, and caves are well worth it for adventurers, who are dreaming about an unaccustomed way of exploration. Back to Hanoi, the heart of culture in Vietnam, you will smoothly flow with a boat trip in inland heaven - Ninh Binh, and a cruise journey to one of seven new wonders of the world - Ha Long bay as a move bringing back to your real modern life. ...more ...less

Highlights

Go off the beaten path in the green mountains of Northern Vietnam
Be amazed by limestone ridged mountains rising in pyramidal shapes
Embark on an overnight cruise in the beautiful UNESCO Halong Bay
Weave through the caves on a beautiful boat ride in Ninh Binh

Places You'll See

Bac Ha

Ha Long Bay

Hanoi

Dong Van

Ninh Binh

Ma Pi Leng

Ba Be

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Welcome to Vietnam - Hanoi Arrival

Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam

Tran Quoc pagoda, the oldest temple in Hanoi, Vietnam

Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam

Tran Quoc pagoda, the oldest temple in Hanoi, Vietnam

Turtle Pagoda at Hoan Kiem Lake

Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam

Tran Quoc pagoda, the oldest temple in Hanoi, Vietnam

Location: Hanoi

Accommodation: Hotel

Your Vietnam adventure begins with your arrival in Hanoi. Your private driver will meet you at the airport, holding a signboard with your name. He will escort you to your accommodation right in the heart of the city, with the fascinating Old Quarter at your fingertips. You can easily explore the city at your own pace or relax at the hotel after the flight.
Overnight in Hanoi. ...more ...less

Day 2 : Hanoi - Travel To Bac Ha - Trekking To Ta Van Chu (B/L)

Rice terraces

Location: Tả Van Chư, Bắc Hà District

Accommodation: Homestay

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, travel by private car from Hanoi towards Bac Ha in the Sapa region. The drive will take approximately 5 hours. Press on along the winding road before taking your first glimpse of Bac Ha village, sitting in a valley with cleared hillsides and rustic farmland. Stretch your legs as you walk off the bus, then begin a trek to your homestay in Ta Van Chu (approximately 10 km/6 mi). Arrive at the homestay, which is comfy, quiet, and surrounded by pristine farmland. The rest of the day is a relaxing time.
Overnight in Ta Van Chu.

Day 3 : Bac Ha Village - Explore the Ethnic Market (B/L)

Bac Ha Market

Location: Bắc Hà District

Accommodation: Homestay

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast at your homestay, visit the Bac Ha fairground market. This is a great place to pick up locally dyed fabrics, hemp plants, and handmade textiles. Depending on the availability, you can witness the extraordinary atmosphere of the ethnic markets around this region:
Tuesday: Coc Ly market
Wednesday: Sin Cheng market
Thursday: Cao Son market Lun Khau Nhin market.
Saturday: Can Cau market
Sunday: Bac Ha market
Then trek approximately 5 to 6 hours to the hill tribe village and enjoy a picnic lunch on the way. Push on through terraced farmland and bamboo scrub for excellent views of emerald valleys, superb rice terraces, and spectacular mountains.
In the evening, settle into your homestay in Bac Ha for the night.
Overnight in Bac Ha.

Day 4 : Bac Ha - Travel To Ha Giang (B)

Children in traditional dress

Location: Hà Giang

Accommodation: Homestay

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning, take a long drive to the Ha Giang province. This is a highland region of forests and terraced rice and corn paddies, with the mountains of Heaven’s Gate (Quan Ba pass) soaring in the background. The Ha Giang province also shares a border with southern China and is known as Vietnam's final frontier. After relaxing and getting to know your surroundings, visit the local markets and shop fronts, which are relics of a bygone era. Afterwards, venture to the local museum and explore Cuom Village, witnessing the colorful traditional dress of the local people. The evening is free to spend as you wish.
Overnight in Ha Giang.

Day 5 : Ha Giang - Travel To Dong Van (B)

Dong Van Overview

Location: Đồng Văn District

Accommodation: Homestay

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, leave for the first of many scenic mountain drives throughout Ha Giang province. Stop to browse Minh Tao Market before wandering through the village of Nam Luong. Afterwards, pass through Lung Tam textile village and the Vuong Family Palace in Sa Phin commune, built in the shape of a royal Manchu palace. This is known as the former palace of the Hmongs’ King before continuing to Dong Van where you'll spend the night.
Overnight in Dong Van.

Day 6 : Exploring The Beautiful Ma Pi Leng Pass - Meo Vac - Bao Lac (B/L)

Ma Pi Leng Pass

Location: Mèo Vạc District, Bảo Lạc

Accommodation: Homestay

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning, we take the most spectacular road in all of Vietnam, which winds for 15 km to the top of the Ma Pi Leng Pass, a hulk of desert peaks and unique canyons in the world. We then descend on Meo Vac for lunch. Visit the Meo Vac market before setting off on a trekking loop that starts and finishes in Dong Van. The trek (approximately 4 hours in total) is moderate and suitable for those with an average fitness level. Wind your way through the spectacular landscape, where you can expect to witness glorious views and capture some amazing pictures of lush valleys and rice paddies. After that, drive past terraced rice farms on the road to Bao Lac (approximately 4 hours), a small town in the mountainous region of northern Vietnam. The area is home to the Black Lo Lo ethnic group, who are well known for their colourful attire and finesse in making bronze drums. The bronze drums hold a special place in Lo Lo customs, being used at funerals and important family events. In Lo Lo culture, only the sound of the drums can help the souls of the dead find their way to the birthplace of their ancestors.
Overnight stay in Bao Lac.

Day 7 : Bao Lac - Ba Be Lake (B/L)

Ba Be Lake

Location: Pac Ngoi, Ba Bể District

Accommodation: Homestay

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Today you will travel to Ba Be Lake (approximately 4 hours). Once there, head down the river by boat on an exploration of Ba Be National Park, visiting the largest natural lake in Vietnam. Disembark for some light walks along the way, visit the impressive waterfalls that feed the lake and observe the natural flora and fauna. Return to land in the afternoon, and head to a family-owned guesthouse in Pac Ngoi village where you will spend the night. The family you’re staying with will prepare lunch for you, and the rest of the day is free to explore the surrounding area. In the evening sit down for a delicious dinner with your hosts. This is a great opportunity to gain an insight into their lives and culture.
Overnignt in Pac Ngoi.

Day 8 : Ba Be - Back To Hanoi (B)

Tran Quoc pagoda, the oldest temple in Hanoi, Vietnam

Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam

Tran Quoc pagoda, the oldest temple in Hanoi, Vietnam

Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam

Dau Dang Waterfall

Tran Quoc pagoda, the oldest temple in Hanoi, Vietnam

Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam

Location: Hanoi, Ba Bể District

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, have a boat trip to explore the lake and the Nang river to the Dau Dang waterfalls. Stroll around to admire the waterfall, then embark on the boat to go up the river and cross the lake from north to south. Then head back to your homestay and get ready to transfer to Hanoi.
Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 9 : Immerse Yourself Into The Beauty of Ninh Binh (B/L)

Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam

Tran Quoc pagoda, the oldest temple in Hanoi, Vietnam

Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam

Tran Quoc pagoda, the oldest temple in Hanoi, Vietnam

Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam

Tran Quoc pagoda, the oldest temple in Hanoi, Vietnam

Boat trip in Tam Coc

Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam

Tran Quoc pagoda, the oldest temple in Hanoi, Vietnam

Location: Hanoi, Ninh Bình

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Today you will experience the ancient culture and history of Vietnam together with seeing the stunning landscape and beautiful scenery when we travel to the Ninh Binh Province. Your guide will pick you up from your hotel around 7:30-8:00 am and depart to Ninh Binh.
The first destination to visit is Hoa Lu ancient capital. Here you will explore the outstanding architecture of King Dinh and King Le temples, the first emperors of ancient Vietnam.
Then move to Tam Coc wharf, where you will have lunch with Vietnamese food. And then board the rowing boat and cruise along the river through the limestone caves. After the boat trip, you will take a cycling trip around the idyllic village through the rice fields to explore the surrounding sceneries.
Then come back to the shuttle bus to return to your hotel in Hanoi.
Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 10 : Hanoi - Halong Bay (B/L/D) - Overnight On Cruise

Location: Hạ Long

Accommodation: Cruise

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

In the morning, check out of the hotel, and get picked up by the Cruise team. Take the most scenic route to reach Halong Bay, taking you across the Red River Delta with emerald green rice paddies stretching for as far as the eyes can see.
On arrival at the pier, you will board the cruise and enjoy the fantastic views of limestone rocks and the karst grottoes. Have an utterly delicious seafood lunch and enjoy the time at the sundeck exploring the Bay.
The cruise will stop in a secret place where you will spend time kayaking or swimming, so you can explore the karst grottoes closer. Towards the evening, you will return to the boat for an early dinner, followed by some time at leisure. You can optionally attend the activities taking part on the boat or just relax.
Overnight on cruise.
Note: In case of bad weather (the boat is not allowed to push off or not allowed to overnight in the sea), the Ha Long bay tour could be canceled without notice. We will consider other replacement tours or a refund based on the specific circumstances.

Day 11 : Cruising in Halong Bay - Back To Hanoi (B/L)

Tran Quoc pagoda, the oldest temple in Hanoi, Vietnam

Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam

Tran Quoc pagoda, the oldest temple in Hanoi, Vietnam

Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam

Tran Quoc pagoda, the oldest temple in Hanoi, Vietnam

Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam

Location: Hanoi, Hạ Long

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Rise early today to view the sunrise at the wonder of nature with breakfast served in the dining room. A Tai Chi class on the sun deck will awake your mind and muscles.
Then head off to visit the limestone cave full of stalagmites and stalactites. After your exploration return to the boat to check out and enjoy the brunch while the cruise is sailing back to the harbor. Later you will be transferred to your accommodation in Hanoi.
Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 12 : Time To Say Goodbye - Hanoi Departure (B)

Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam

Tran Quoc pagoda, the oldest temple in Hanoi, Vietnam

Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam

Tran Quoc pagoda, the oldest temple in Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi Old Quarter

Tran Quoc pagoda, the oldest temple in Hanoi, Vietnam

Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam

Tran Quoc pagoda, the oldest temple in Hanoi, Vietnam

Location: Hanoi

Meals Included: Breakfast

Relish a healthy breakfast on the final day of your trip to Vietnam. Complete the hotel check-out formalities, after which you can visit the local markets to buy souvenirs for your loved ones. Later your private driver will transfer you to the airport to take your flight back home.
Trip Ends.

What's Included

Accommodation

Single/Twin/double/triple room with breakfast included
Fully Guided

Experienced English Speaking Guide
Transport

- Door-to-door pick-up & drop-off services by private car - Air-conditioned bus between Hanoi and Halong Bay (2-way) - Private car for the excursions - Boat as per itinerary
Meals

As per the tour program: B = Breakfast L = Lunch D= Dinner
Other included

– All sightseeing tickets according to the itinerary – Tissues and water on coach – Service charges and government tax – 24/7 hotline support guaranteed – Vietnam Visa letter approval

What's Not Included

International flights and departure taxes
Beverage, Personal expenses, tips, and gratuities
Early check-in and late check-out (If not mentioned)
Compulsory Gala Dinner on 24 Dec, 31 Dec and 21 Jan (Tet)
Public holiday surcharge (Christmas and New Year, Tet holiday) if applicable
Surcharge for airport cabs from 12:00 am – 05:00 am
Visa stamping fee on arrival at the airport (Vietnam: $25/person)
Services not mentioned above

Accommodation

3-STARS HOTELS:

Hanoi: Mina Hotel or similar
Halong Bay: Le Journey Cruise or similar
Bac Ha: Homestay
Ha Giang: homestay
Dong Van: Homestay
Bao Lac: Homestay
Ba Be: Homestay

4-STARS HOTELS:

Hanoi: Tirant Hotel or similar
Halong Bay: La Pandora Cruise or similar
Bac Ha: Homestay
Ha Giang: Panhou Retreat or similar
Dong Van: Homestay
Ba Be: Homestay
Bao Lac: Homestay

5-STARS HOTELS:

Hanoi: Apricot Hotel or similar
Halong Bay: Doris Cruise or similar
Bac Ha: Homestay
Ha Giang: Panhou Retreat or similar
Dong Van: Auberge Meo Vac
Bao Lac: Homestay
Ba Be: Homestay ...more ...less

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Check out our Q&As

What is the maximum group size?

The maximum group size is 15 people
What happens if a group doesn’t make its minimum required number of passengers?

This tour does not require minimum number of people
Are vaccinations required for this tour?

No, but it is recommended to have Hepatitis A, B, Typhoid and Tetanus
What documents will I receive before I travel?

After you book the tour you will receive the confirmation voucher with your trip details. 15 days before the trip we will send you the flight/train tickets (if any), visa approval letter (if necessary) and some useful information about the places you visit and your trip.
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

If you are travelling solo, you will need to pay the surcharge. Sometimes we could arrange solo travellers share the room if there will be some people of the same gender looking for a travel partner for your dates and tour.

Can I join the tour once it has departed?

It will depend on the availability of the services and seats in the group (if it is a group tour), you can discuss it with our team, and they will check the possibility.
Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

We contribute part of the profit from some day trips to support the local community. Our main sustainable project is Ba Vi Eco Tour which has been designed by us to give the real insight to the Vietnamese traditional life and to support the people who live there.
Any policies are in place for children?

The rate for children applicable for child sharing a room or cabin with two adults: - For infant (<02 years old): FOC except domestic ticket cost. - 02 – 11 years old: 85% adult rate. - Child from 12 years old and above will pay as adult. All tickets: Based on each airlines' policy, the price for children will be applied at time of booking.
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

You will need to contact our team as soon as possible and they will check the possibility
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

If you take part in a group tour you might travel with
How long has the tour company been trading?

We are operating since 2010
What policies are in place for Covid-19?

If your trip is cancelled by us due to Covid-19 situation and restrictions on entering the country, we will give you the full credit for the next trip
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

Yes, all accommodations in the tour meet local health and safety regulations.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Steven

What an amazing tour!!!

09-Nov-2023

The itinerary is amazing and it’s really hard to say what section of the trip was best given each one stood out. From the strong cultural experience in Hanoi to the crazy times on the Ha Long cruise/island excursion. On top of all of this, I met some great new friends from different backgrounds that I hope to further connect with. Pro tip, try to pack efficiently, use mosquito spray (especially in Ninh Binh), use free time to explore. After this trip, I have already put down a deposit for the next trip. ...more ...less

Janet Canada

A great trip

15-Nov-2023

Wonderful experience!!! We are a group of 4 people from Canada. We booked a 12-day tour to Northern Vietnam. From day one up to the very last day everything was arranged super. We were picked up without any delay for trips and traveling, had great tour guides and had great hotels in great locations during our round-trip through many cities in north Vietnam. All we had to do is enjoy ourselves! ...more ...less

PeterVoss

Excellent visit to Vietnam

05-Dec-2023

Great Job - Realistic Asia !!! My friends and I spent 2 weeks in South Vietnam. It was a wonderful time with each other. Nguyen & Tony were enthusiastic guides. They tried their best to arrange the trip for us. We enjoyed the trip very much! We recommend Realistic Asia to all our friends! Regards ...more ...less

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Mar 24, 2025 - Apr 04, 2025

~~$3646~~ $1787 (USD)