HA NOI, VIETNAM
An eclectic mix of East and West, Hanoi is a city of surprising charm. The cultural heart of Vietnam, the city still twinkles with traces of centuries past and changing cultures and dynasties. Its French heritage is clearly visible in its many colonial buildings and tree-lined boulevards, while Chinese influence is evident in the cityâs temples and gardens, and a modern café culture also flourishes
ULTIMATE NORTHWEST AND NORTHEAST
Day 1: Ha Noi – Ha Giang
From 7:00 am – 10:30 am
Set off the day with an early morning drive to the final frontier in Northern Vietnam. The area around Ha Giang is stunning and is still untouched by tourism. Not far out of Hanoi, you will stop in Duong Lam Ancient Village, a site rich in history and culture. A short walk brings you to the village communal house, a place where locals worship the gods. Then visit one of the ancient houses renowned for its unique houses built with wooden frames and fortified with laterites.
From 13:00 pm – 17:30 pm
Continue the drive up to the hills and beautiful villages until you reach Ha Giang around sunset. Overnight in Ha Giang.
Day 2 : Ha Giang – Dong Van
From 7:00 am – 11:30 am
Transfer around 6 hours for 140km to Dong Van via Quan Ba Valley, passing clouds add to the already scenic view of the valley which is dotted with fields and rock formations below. En route, stop for light trekking to visit a few small and beautiful mountain villages. Head to the majestic old palace of HâMong King – a fortress built by a local chief, Vuong Chin Duc. Built-in the 1900s, the palace was designed in the style of an ancient Chinese architect. It was made from materials such as solid stone blocks, wood and terracotta tiles.
From 13:00 pm – 17:30 pm
Then continue to transfer to Dong Van. Take a short rest and walk around the ancient town of Dong Van. Overnight in Dong Van.
Day 3: Dong Van – Bac Can – Ba Be National Park
From 7:00 am – 8:00 am
If your trip falls on Sunday, take this chance to visit the Dong Van ethnic market, where all kinds of goods and multi-colored clothes can be purchased.
From 8:00 am – 17:00 pm
Leaving Dong Van travel along the Nho Que River and go through the Ma Li Peng Pass which is considered the most beautiful pass in Vietnam. Drive about 7 hours for 220 km through very zigzag roads onward to Ba Be National Park, a reserve in Bac Kan Province. Its role is to protect the freshwater lake running along surrounding limestone and lowland evergreen forests.
Day 4: Ba Be Lake
From 8:00 am – 10:30 am
Taking a boat trip to Ba Be stands for Three Lakes. It is the largest natural freshwater lake, stretching about 8 kilometers in the north-south direction. Flora and fauna here are the variety of species of birds, reptiles or butterflies that create a stunning landscape in stalactites here. Then discover Puong Cave, a large tunnel cave digging under the mountain. With its 30m high and 300m length, here is a fascinating destination to explore.
From 10:30 am – 12:00 am
Cruise further to visit Dau Dang waterfall, a series of spectacular cascades between sheer walls of rock in harmony with the original forest landscape. Late lunch is served in a local restaurant after one hour of exploration.
Day 5: Ba Be Lake – Ha Noi
From 8:00 am – 12:30 am
Free at leisure before embarking on a 5-hour drive back to Hanoi.
NOTES:
* OPERATES: 5 days/ 4 nights
* INCLUSIONS: Transportation, Mineral water on car, English speaking guide, Tours & Activities as mentioned, Boat trip, Local standard bike, Meal at local restaurant
* EXCLUSIONS: Accommodation, Drinks at mentioned Meals, Tips and Gratuities