(12 Days / 11 Nights)
Day 1: VIETNAM ADVENTURE PACKAGE IN THE NORTH: Arrival - Ha Noi (-/-/-)
On arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you are met by our guide and transferred to hotel. The capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is a stylish and gracious city that retains an unique old world charm and some Asia's most striking colonial architecture. The many lakes and parks make for relaxing atmosphere. If time permits we enjoy on a short cyclo ride through the bustling old quarter streets named after the specific goods once offered for sale at these places.O/N in Ha Noi.
Day 2: VIETNAM ADVENTURE PACKAGE IN THE NORTH: Ha Noi Sightseeing Vacation(B/-/-)
Today we spend a full day exploring the charming Hanoi City. The first stop is Ho Chi Minh Complex containing the mausoleum of the nation's founder Ho Chi Minh, the Presidential Palace and the Ho Chi Minh's house on stilts. Close to this complex is the One Pillar Pagoda, whose origins date back to the foundation of city. We follow it with a visit to the Temple of Literature, which is well known as the first university of Vietnam and the History Museum with an excellent collection of artifacts illustrating the Vietnamese history. The sightseeing also includes the outlaying Ethnologic Museum, dedicated to Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups. Afterwards we drive back to the town center, stopping at the Tran Quoc Pagoda and Quan Thanh Temple. They are some major highlights set by the beautiful West Lake. We see these sights before continuing to the peaceful lake of Hoan Kiem with its sacred temple. In front of this lake is the famous water puppet theatre where we will see a fantastic performance.O/N in Ha Noi. (B)
Day 3: VIETNAM ADVENTURE PACKAGE IN THE NORTH: HANOI — DUONG LAM VILLAGE SIGHTSEEING TRIP TO MAI CHAU (B/L/D)
In the morning, we start from Hanoi to Duong Lam village, a purely agricultural village of the DUONG
Northern Red River delta where still preserve many hundred-year-old houses. It will be your unique experience as you walk along tiny ancient alleys; visit Mong Phu Communal House in Mong Phu hamlet - the only hamlet whose original village entrance gate remains intact, dedicated to national heroes. Have the opportunity to bike in the village and have some talks with the locals in their ancient houses by visiting the ancient houses of Mr Lam, Mr Ha and Mr Huyen. After that, we continue walking to visit Mia Pagoda (other hamlet in Duong Lam village), is built in 15 th century and admire 287 statues of all sizes, among with are famous sculpture such as the statue of Buddha in the Himalayas and the statues of the Eight Vajra Deities. Then visit Ngo Quyen temple and Phung Hung temple, places dedicated to two national heroes Ngo Quyen and Phung Hung.Lastly, we will go back a local family to enjoy your special lunch with Vietnamese foods in an ancient house.
At around 14:00, we will keep heading to Mai Chau valley & view sunset behind the hills. After dinner in a family, we have the opportunity to take part to a traditional dance show.
O/N at house on stilts in Pom Coong remote village.
Day 4: VIETNAM ADVENTURE PACKAGE IN THE NORTH: Hanoi - Son La Biking Tours (B/-/-)
This morning we are going to have a short trekking journey (or bike tour) to some of remote
villages of Thai People inhabiting in Mai Chau valley The journey northwest begins as we depart from Mai Chau and pass through the undulating terrains of tea plantations, terraced rice fields and sleepy villages linked to the road which is the main artery of trade between the northwestern region and the capital city. This is our first glimpse of rural Vietnam and sets the tone for the days ahead. En route we have several stops to stretch our legs and visit some roadside villages. The thrilling drive will deliver us in Son La by mid or late afternoon depending on road and traffic conditions. We check in hotel and enjoy a short walk around this mountain town. There is a little traffic on roads and many Black Thai in traditional costume scurry in all directions.
O/N in Son La.
Day 5: VIETNAM ADVENTURE PACKAGE IN THE NORTH: Son La Adventure Trekking Trips to Dien Bien Phu (B/-/-)
The provincial museum and the top hill old prison are some of major sights in Son La Town. We include these in a short morning tour before we wind our way past the stunning mountain scenery. The road conditions are very poor therefore we need to bring along our spirit of adventure until Dien Bien Phu, the site of the decisive battle in Vietnam's struggle for
independence in 1954. Once reaching Dien Dien we drive around to see this fast growing town and make stop at Dien Bien Phu museum which details the event in place. We follow it with a visit to the strategic hill A1 and the old battle field where the lush vegetation grows behind many war relics including old French tanks and artillery pieces. O/N in Dien Bien Phu
Day 6: VIETNAM ADVENTURE PACKAGE IN THE NORTH: Dien Bien Phu - Tam Duong (B/-/-)
Heading out of Dien Phu Phu Town, we spend a full day travelling into Vietnam's most mountainous region. The roads are difficult at times, but the spectacular landscape with a mixture of terraced fields and colourful local population makes the hardship all worthwhile. Along the way we encounter the mountaineers going about their daily business. These local villagers are almost the Red Hmong, Kho Mu, Mang, Dao people who still retain their age old cultural traditions and wear distinctive costumes. We arrive in Tam Duong by late afternoon and may have time strolling around. This small hill town is surrounded by the breathtaking mountain backdrop and frequently visited by the ethnic minority people. O/N in Tam Duong.Day 7: VIETNAM ADVENTURE PACKAGE IN THE NORTH: Tam Duong - Sapa (B/-/-)
The breathtaking north scenery is unequalled although the conditions are very basic. Today we continue driving along a zigzag route to Sapa. The road conditions is very poor in some places
but it is still a wonderful trip for photograph hunters as we pass though the various scenic water falls, charming villages and rolling mountains. The hill station of Sa Pa was founded in early last century and rapidly became an ideal place for anyone seeking an enjoyable escape from the unbearable heat in plains. At an elevation of 1,500 meters, it has some warm days and cool evenings. Today we can soak up the fresh climate as much as you want by spending the time to wander around and catch the first look of Sa Pa. The ethnic minority people are frequently seen in this hill town and small vendors along the street sell local textiles and handicraft. O/N in Sa Pa.
Day 8: VIETNAM ADVENTURE PACKAGE IN THE NORTH: SAPA ADVENTURE TRAVEL PACKAGES (B/L/-)
Time to visit Sa Pa Market where the Red Dao, Black Hmong, Tay , Xa Pho ethnic minority people converge from the surrounding mountainsides or valley to trade their goods and enjoy a walk to some nearby hill tribe villages such as Cat Cat, Lao Chai and Ta Van villages.O/N in Sa Pa.
Day 9: VIETNAM ADVENTURE PACKAGE IN THE NORTH: SAPA - BAC HA MARKET - BACK TO HANOI BY TRAIN (B/L/-)
We continue venturing into northern Vietnam with the next stop being Bac Ha Market, which also attracts a wide variety of ethnic minority groups including the Variegated Hmong, Dao, Phu La, La Chi, Tay. The experience of this congregation is colorful and unique.Afternoon, enjoy a boat trip down stream Chay River and take visit to villages along the river, discover the local people life.
Transfer to Lao Cai Railways Station for overnight train back to Hanoi.
O/N on board.
Option 1: Bac Ha & Muong Khuong Market on Sunday
Option 2: Coc Ly Market on Tuesday
Option 3: Lung Khau Nhin Market on Friday
Option 4: Can Cau Market on Saturday
Day 10: VIETNAM ADVENTURE PACKAGE IN THE NORTH: HANOI RAILWAY STATION - HALONG BAY (B/L/D)
05h00: Arrive at Hanoi Railways Station, transfer to hotel for leisure and breakfast.08h00: We are picked up at your hotel and then keep going to Halong Bay. On the way, we will stop by a Humanity Center where almost disable children known as Agent Orange affected
victims in the Vietnam war are living & working and contributing to the social development. You will have chance to see how much the war did damage Vietnam & how hard Vietnamese people are surviving.12.30 We are welcome on the traditional junk and have welcome drink. Start the boat trip to visit Halong Bay, listed as a World Heritage Area of outstanding natural beauty. This picturesque “Dragon descending to the sea” Bay has 1,969 limestone islets rising from the sea, many of them containing beautiful grottoes. Visit of a grotto then seafood lunch on board.
The excursion includes the visit to Con Cho Island, Dinh Huong Island, Canh Buom Island, Ga Choi Island. Swimming on Titop or Hoa Cuong beach. Watching sunset. Fishing with seine and owing bamboo boat (on request). If you are unable to do or not interested in joining those kinds of activities, you can stay on the sundeck to relax on your own.
Dinner and overnight on Cruise
Day 11: VIETNAM ADVENTURE PACKAGE IN THE NORTH: HALONG CRUISES – HANOi (B/L/-)
In this morning, we will keep on our journey by junk-boat to to explore more islands & natural beauties of Halong Bay.At around 10:30: you will have a brunch served on cruise before reaching to Halong Harbour at around 12:00. Right here our car will be at disposal to pick you up then drive back to Hanoi.
At around 15:30: You will get to Hanoi & the rest of time you will be free on your own
O/N in Ha Noi.Day 12: VIETNAM ADVENTURE PACKAGE IN THE NORTH: HANOI - Departure (B/-/-)
At leisure until transfer to Noi Bai Airport for departure flight (check out hotel before 12h00)---End of services---
INCLUDING:
• Transportation in vehicle with driver for four travelers in mountain as under specified
• Transportation in vehicle with driver for four travelers in mountain as under specified
• New model WD Japanese car on Superior Class Tour• Medium model WD Japanese car on Standard and First Class Tour
• Transportation in private air-conditioned vehicle with driver in delta
• Accommodation in hotels, guesthouses (twin shared room)
• Meal as mentioned: B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner
• English or French speaking guide
• Entrance fee to indicated sights
• Water puppet show, traditional dance show in Mai Chau
• Boat trip
• Pure bottled water & wipes
EXCLUDING:
Other meals, tip, drinks, airport tax, single room, personal expenses, insurance,...
• Transportation in private air-conditioned vehicle with driver in delta
• Accommodation in hotels, guesthouses (twin shared room)
• Meal as mentioned: B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner
• English or French speaking guide
• Entrance fee to indicated sights
• Water puppet show, traditional dance show in Mai Chau
• Boat trip
• Pure bottled water & wipes
EXCLUDING:
Other meals, tip, drinks, airport tax, single room, personal expenses, insurance,...
TRIP NOTE
- Viet Nam is a developing country whose infrastructure may differ from what you expect in your homeland. Road conditions are poor and accommodation may be basic in mountain region.
- Good weather for trek from September until June. We recommend you to bring rain jacket, inner sleeping sheets, walking boots, warm clothes, lamp torch, and toilet papers.
- Occasionally, this itinerary may be amended for reasons beyond our control such as weather and roads conditions.To get more information about the tour, pls take a look into the link http://vietlongtravel.com/viet-nam-tours/vietnam-adventure-tours/vietnam-adventure-package-in-the-north.html
Or pls contact to
HOA. PHUNG THI THU
Sales Executives
Cellphone: +84985403904
YM: thuhoa_6787
======================================
VIETLONG TRAVEL – HEAD OFFICE IN HANOI
32 / Le Ngoc Han Str, Hai Ba Trung Dis; Hanoi - VIETNAM
Tel: (84 4) 04 39766534 & Fax: 04 39766533
Email: sales@vietlongtravel.com / thuhoa@vietlongtravel.com
Website: http://www.vietlongtravel.com
On arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you are met by our guide and transferred to hotel. The capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is a stylish and gracious city that retains an unique old world charm and some Asia's most striking colonial architecture. The many lakes and parks make for relaxing atmosphere. If time permits we enjoy a short cyclo ride through the bustling old quarter streets named after the specific goods once offered for sale at these places. 
Afterwards we drive back to the town center, stopping at the Tran Quoc Pagoda and Quan Thanh Temple. They are some major highlights set by the beautiful West Lake. We see these sights before continuing to the peaceful lake of Hoan Kiem with its sacred temple. In front of this lake is the famous water puppet theatre where we will see a fantastic performance. 
By mid afternoon we reach Van village which is home to the White Thai people. Tonight we are toasted as honored guests of a Thai family and sample some of their homemade foods! The accommodation is very simple and dormitory style, no western facilities but the experience is definitely unique. 
Today we spend our time for a short walk on valley floor surrounded by rice fields and stunning mountain backdrop. Along the way we see many mountaineers doing their daily works such as logging, herding buffalo, tilling the field or weaving brocade. Here is a chance for the shoppers to try their hands at bargaining. Upon leaving Mai Chau we embark on a drive along the winding roads towards Man Duc. There are some possibilities to do a short trekking into the homeland of the Muang ethnic minorities. They have settled there long time ago and make for the main local population. We continue our overland trip to Cuc Phuong National Park and pass through the breathtaking countryside. 
This ancient capital has left its legacy in form of two temples, the first one dedicated to Dinh Tien Hoang Emperor and the second one to the rulers of the Le Dynasty. We visit these sites and drive a short distance to Ninh Binh Town. The remainder of day is free for your own exploration. 
Views of sailing junks navigating past over 3,000 limestone islands and out crops jutting out of the clear and emerald water of the bay are nothing short of spectacular. These limestone karst formations are littered with beaches, grottoes and beautiful caves. Along the way we will anchor for a leisurely swim in a secluded cove and an interesting visit to one of the many hidden grottoes beneath towering cliffs. The extra enjoyment is a wonderful seafood lunch served on board. You spend the rest of time after lunch for your own pleasure; admiring the landscape, lazing around the deck or simply soaking up the sunshine. On arrival in Cat Ba pier we catch a short drive to the town center. 
The ideal way to spend your last evening in Vietnam is a dinner at one of the town famous eating spots. 
In this afternoon, we will have a sightseeing tour of major sights in Ho Chi Minh City. We drive past many lively streets on our way to the Reunification Palace. This mansion was the former residence of the President of South Vietnam until end of April 1975. Close to the palace are some striking French colonial structures including the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Old Sai Gon Post Office. We see these before going to the Jade Emperor Pagoda and the War remnant exhibit. The final stop is Ben Thanh Market where anything and everything is for sale!. 
and see farmers at work. We navigate some narrower canals using small rowing boats to Ben Tre Province for an interesting visit to some local industries. The extra enjoyment is a lunch at one of the famous local eating spots. We drive back to Ho Chi Minh, stopping off en route to see the beautiful Ving Trang Pagoda and the Saigon's Chinatown, locally named Cho Lon. This bustling area is crammed with sacred temples and mysterious, narrow lanes. 
whole length of Nha Trang City make it one of Vietnam's premier beach resorts. We board a boat to explore the coastal islands. The aquarium lake is our first stop before we head out to Hon Mun Island. Today we have plenty of time to enjoy swimming and snorkeling on the blue and clear water or simply lazing on a beach. The thrilling boat trip continues towards Hon Tam Island, giving us a choice of various water sports and good restaurant for lunch. By mid afternoon we cruise back to Nha Trang Pier and complete our day with a short city tour. The impressive Ponagar Cham Towers overlooking the colourful fishing port, and the famous Long Son Pagoda are a major part of our sightseeing. 
are very basic, but it gives us a chance to see the simple lifestyle of the M’nong ethnic minorities and live as many local villagers usually do. 
of seeing the rice fields and the smiling faces of the people. On arrival in Hoi An we start our sightseeing tour. This delightful town was originally a Cham seaport but has been influenced down the centuries by a myriad of traders from various cultures. There are plenty to see in Hoi An Town, some of which are the famous Japanese Covered Bridges, the Pottery Museum, the 200 years old Tamky House, the Chua Ong Pagoda and the vibrant market. We include these sites in an enchanting walking tour past many low tiled houses scattered along the small streets and assembly halls which reflect the town's multi-cultural past. 
Tet Offensive, however it is still fascinating to walk among the ruins. 
some Asia ‘s most striking colonial architecture. The many lakes and parks make for relaxing atmosphere
dedicated to national heroes. Have the opportunity to bike in the village and have some talks with the locals in their ancient houses by visiting the ancient houses of Mr Lam, Mr Ha and Mr Huyen. After that, we continue walking to visit Mia Pagoda (other hamlet in Duong Lam village), is built in 15 th century and admire 287 statues of all sizes, among with are famous sculpture such as the statue of Buddha in the Himalayas and the statues of the Eight Vajra Deities. Then visit Ngo Quyen temple and Phung Hung temple, places dedicated to two national heroes Ngo Quyen and Phung Hung.
terrains of tea plantations, terraced rice fields and sleepy villages linked to the road which is the main artery of trade between the northwestern region and the capital city. This is our first glimpse of rural Vietnam and sets the tone for the days ahead. En route we have several stops to stretch our legs and visit some roadside villages. The thrilling drive will deliver us in Son La by mid or late afternoon depending on road and traffic conditions. We check in hotel and enjoy a short walk around this mountain town. There is a little traffic on roads and many Black Thai in traditional costume scurry in all directions. 
O/N in Dien Bien Phu 
unbearable heat in plains. At an elevation of 1,500 meters, it has some warm days and cool evenings. Today we can soak up the fresh climate as much as you want by spending the time to wander around and catch the first look of Sa Pa. The ethnic minority people are frequently seen in this hill town and small vendors along the street sell local textiles and handicraft. 
discover the local people life.
Choi Island. Swimming on Titop or Hoa Cuong beach. Watching sunset. Fishing with seine and owing bamboo boat (on request). If you are unable to do or not interested in joining those kinds of activities, you can stay on the sundeck to relax on your own.
* Trekking distance: 15 km
Pho tribe the smalest group in Sapa who have very little contact with modern Vietnam. Overnight in Muong Bo Village of Tay people. 
After dinner in a family, we have the opportunity to take part to a traditional dance show.
The provincial museum and the top hill old prison are some of major sights in Son La Town. We include these in a short morning tour before we make our way past the beautiful mountain scenery. The road conditions are very poor therefore we need to bring along our spirit of adventure until Dien Bien Phu, the site of the decisive battle in Vietnam's struggle for independence in 1954. On arrival in Dien Dien we drive around to see this fast growing town and the Dien Bien Phu Museum which details the event in place. We follow it with a visit to the strategic hill A1 and the old battle field where the lush vegetation grows behind many war relics including old French tanks and artillery pieces.
surrounding areas. Along the way we encounter the mountaineers going about their daily business. These local villagers are mainly the Red Hmong, Kho Mu, Mang, Dao people who still retain their old age traditions and wear distinctive costumes. Today we have plenty of time to visit the roadside villages and catch the fantastic photographs on our way to Lai Chau. The major activity in this afternoon is a boat trip along the mighty Da River, passing through the stunning mountain landscapes. The pace is very relaxing, a perfect way to observe the local lifestyle close up. 
we venture into the upstream of the Da River with the next stop being Muang Te. The road conditions are very poor; however the verdant and rugged mountain scenery combined with the colorful local population makes the hardship all worthwhile. En route we stop at some seldom visited villages of Ha Nhi, Cong and Si La people and are sure to attract their attention as this part of the country receive very few visitors. 
visited by the ethnic minority people. 
the area surrounding this hill station. Today we visit the bustling Sa Pa Market where the Red Dao, Black Hmong, Tay and Xa Pho ethnic minorities converge from the nearby mountainsides and valleys to trade their goods and buy provisions. Upon leaving Sa Pa Town we embark on a walk, using the local tracks to Lao Chai village, home of the Black H'Mong people. The footpath traverses some terraced rice fields, giving us a chance to see the local villagers doing their daily works such as logging, herding buffalo and tilling the field. We arrive at Ta Van hamlet and visit the Zay ethnic minorities who are very friendly and welcoming. 
history. Today we have plenty of time to explore these rarely seen areas before travelling to Lao Cai. This fast growing border town has not much to see but it is still a necessary stop for next day activities. 
plateau. The former royal house of Hmong King at Sa Phin is a main attraction in place. This stone mansion reflects an interesting history of the Hmong people. We visit the royal house before we set forth to conquer the northernmost tip of Vietnam. On arrival in Luang Cu we stroll around the charming villages of Lo Lo and Hmong minority people. The blend of stunning scenery and colourful local population makes this day an unforgettable experience. 
high mountainsides therefore it may involve a hard walk to see their villages. Once arriving in Meo Vac we walk around to see the town center and travel by roads via Yen Minh to Ha Giang, using the short cut. 
The wonderful relaxing time begins as we board a boat in Cho Ra and cruise along the tranquil Nang River down to the scenic Ba Be lakes. This legendary lake is just one continuous water body although the name means "three lakes". Along the way we make some stops to visit the Poung Cave, the Tay hill tribe villages, the primitive jungle and the scenic Dau Dang Waterfall. Upon leaving this sight we cross the main lake towards the boat pier. Here we meet up with our vehicle and travel along a winding road to Cao Bang past the spectacular mountain backdrops. 
historical vestiges of the war time. The thrilling drive will deliver us to Lang Son by late afternoon. This border town had been all destroyed during the recent Sino - Vietnamese war, but was rebuilt to become an important trade center in north eastern region. 
Noi Bai Airport for departure.