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North Vietnam Explorer

7 days

PRIVATE TOUR: Embark on a private journey through Northern Vietnam, where the vibrant charm of Hanoi's bustling streets meets the serene beauty of Mai Chau, Ninh Binh, and Halong Bay. Explore the picturesque Mai Chau Valley, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Ninh Binh, and cruise Halong Bay on an overnight junk boat cruise.

For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes

Free cancellation
Free amends
Available on all departures booked at least 40 days in advance. Cancel or change your booking for FREE for up to 7 days after booking

Accommodation Standard

3 Star

Tour Overview

Duration

7 days

Starts

Hanoi

Ends

Hanoi

Range

Private

Tour Guide

Yes, for all included sightseeing

Group Size

Min 2 / Max Private Tour

Minimum age

5 yrs, accompanied by an adult

Departs

Daily

Hotel Rating

3 star

Countries

Vietnam

Arrival Transfer

Yes

Departure Transfer

No - can be booked on request

Meals included

Breakfast: 6, Lunch: 4, Dinner: 1
Per person from
R 20,955.00
Total From
R 41,910.00
Deposit From
Final payment
R 13,198.00
R 35,311.00

Accommodation Standard

3 Star

Tour Highlights

Hanoi - Explore the bustling streets of Hanoi, visiting significant landmarks such as Ba Dinh Square, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the Temple of Literature
Mai Chau Valley – Enjoy the serene beauty of Mai Chau Valley, home to the White Thai ethnic minority group
Hang Kia - Venture into the H’mong ethnic lands in the mountainous province of Hoa Binh & enjoy a traditional lunch in a wooden home
Hoa Lu - Explore the remnants of Hoa Lu, Vietnam's ancient imperial capital
Trang An - Embark on a serene sampan ride through the picturesque landscape of Trang An
Ninh Binh - Marvel at the stunning scenery of Ninh Binh, from the clear river waters to the mystical caves and dramatic peaks
Halong Bay - Marvel at this UNESCO Listed region with thousands of stunning limestone peaks and islets
Junk boat cruising - Spend a night on board with time to relax on the sundeck

Included

5 breakfasts, 1 brunch, 4 lunches & 1 dinner
5 nights 3 star hotel (4 and 5 star hotel options available - please enquire) and 1 night on board a traditional junk boat in Halong Bay (private en suite cabin)
Activities on days 5 & 6 on shared basis on a shared junk boat
Local English-speaking guides for all included sightseeing
Guided sightseeing - Mai Chau, Hang Kia, Ninh Binh & Hanoi
Trekking in Mai Chau
Airport arrival transfer day 1
All relevant transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned vehicles

Not Included

International flights and visa
Tipping - An entirely personal gesture
Departure airport transfer

Accommodation Standard

3 Star

Itinerary

Day 1 - Welcome

Welcome to Vietnam and the beginning of your adventure in the captivating city of Hanoi!

Upon arrival at the airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in. With the rest of the day at your leisure, take the opportunity to relax and explore Hanoi at your own pace.

Overnight: Hanoi

Day 2 - Marvelous Mai Chau

Hanoi - Mai Chau. Today, leave bustling Hanoi and journey to the picturesque Mai Chau Valley, home to the White Thai ethnic minority group. Enjoy lunch at a traditional family-run guesthouse in the charming village of Mai Hich. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk through the back roads and rice fields of the valley, encountering the Thai people as they go about their daily lives. The rest of the day is yours to relax by the lodge's swimming pool or explore the countryside with available bike rentals.

Overnight: Mai Chau
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3 - Hoa Binh & Hang Kia

Mai Chau - Hang Kia - Mai Chau. Venture to the H’mong ethnic lands in the mountainous province of Hoa Binh and the rocky plateau of Hang Kia. Meet the colourfully dressed locals and enjoy lunch in a traditional wooden home.

In the afternoon, embark on an easy-paced trek downhill to Mai Chau Valley, enjoying the picturesque scenery along the way. Alternatively, if you prefer not to trek, you can be transferred by road back to the lodge, where you can enjoy the afternoon at leisure.

Overnight: Mai Chau
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4 - Ninh Binh

Mai Chau - Ninh Binh. Depart bright and early today for an exploration of Ninh Binh, a hidden gem to the south of Hanoi. After a scenic two-hour drive, arrive at the remnants of Hoa Lu, once Vietnam's imperial capital during the 10th and 11th centuries. Here, admire ancient palaces, pagodas, tombs, and pavilions.

Next, venture to Trang An, where a sampan ride awaits, guiding you along winding rivers framed by towering mountains and lush forests. Along the way, pause to admire the area's historic temples. Make sure to take in Trang An's breathtaking natural beauty, from the clear river waters to the mystical caves and dramatic peaks.

Overnight: Ninh Binh
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5 - Beautiful Halong Bay

Ninh Binh - Halong Bay. After breakfast at the hotel, bid farewell to Ninh Binh and embark on a journey to the spectacular Halong Bay. Marvel at the karst island peaks rising from the emerald-colored waters, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Board a traditional junk boat, blending oriental style with modern luxury, as you explore the bay on an overnight cruise. Take in panoramic views from the sundeck as the boat gently navigates the waters.

In the afternoon, visit Trinh Nu Cave, known for its stunning array of stalactites and stalagmites, and enjoy activities like kayaking and swimming. Back on board, witness a Vietnamese cooking demonstration on the sundeck before indulging in a seafood dinner.

Overnight: Halong Bay
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 - Halong to Hanoi

Halong Bay - Hanoi. Wake up to witness a spectacular sunrise over the bay, casting a golden glow on the stunning rocky islands emerging from the crystal-clear waters. Cruise through the picturesque landscape before enjoying brunch on board. As the cruise concludes, disembark and begin the journey back to Hanoi.

Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour through Ba Dinh Square and visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university built in the 11th century. Then, embark on a 1-hour cyclo tour around the Old Quarter.

Overnight: Hanoi
Meals: Breakfast

Day 7 - Goodbye

Today, your journey comes to an end. After breakfast and hotel check out, make your way to the airport for onward travel, or contact us to pre-book a departure transfer. Safe travels!

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation Standard

3 Star

Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
The Flower Boutique Hotel
Hanoi

The Flower Boutique Hotel & Travel offers an ideal base for exploring the city, with Quan Thanh Temple, Hanoi Old City Gate, and West Lake just a stone's throw away. This hotel boasts a tour desk, luggage storage, and a range of services. Guests can enjoy air-conditioned rooms equipped with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and private bathrooms. Some rooms even feature kitchenettes. Start your day with a delicious breakfast before venturing out to nearby attractions With free WiFi and attentive staff, The Flower Boutique Hotel ensures a comfortable stay for all guests.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Mai Chau Villas
Mai Chau

A collection of comfortable villas located in the spectacular countryside of Mai Chau, with a backdrop of forest and mountains. The property offers free Wi-Fi, a gym, and a swimming pool, as well as a restaurant, coffee shop, and bar. Bungalows are cozy, boasting ensuite bathrooms, TV, air-conditioning and blackout curtains. There is a minibar and refrigerator, and complimentary water is provided. Optional activities such as fishing can also be booked at the front desk.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
Standard Lodge
Le Clos Du Fil
Ninh Binh

This quaint boutique hotel is found in the village of Van Lam, a 700-year old village known for its crafting and embroidery. Classic Vietnamese architecture, rural charm, locally handmade decor and a traditional way of life combine to make Le Clos Du Fil a both comfortable and informative place to stay. Rooms feature large windows (some also include balconies) from which to enjoy the rustic views, as well as air-conditioning, safe, Wi-Fi and ensuite bathroom. The onsite restaurant serves fresh, local food and guests can even join a cooking class to learn how to produce local cuisine. There is also an outdoor swimming pool and spa for guests to enjoy.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
Standard Boutique Hotel
Syrena Junk Boat
Halong Bay

A tradition hand crafted boat, the Syrena Junk Boat offers superb en suite air conditioned cabins with comfortable interiors and balconies. The on board Lotus Restaurant serves up a delicious array of Vietnamese and International cuisine. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the public areas. Swimming, kayaking and tai chi are all offered on board and movie nights are also very popular.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
Mid Range Junk

Accommodation Standard

3 Star

Prices & Dates

'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room, based on a travelling party of at least 2 adults. If travelling solo, an additional ‘1-person’ supplement will apply, contact us for details.

2024
Twin/Double
Single
25 Nov - 1 Dec
R 20,955
R 27,385
26 Nov - 2 Dec
R 20,955
R 27,385
27 Nov - 3 Dec
R 20,955
R 27,385
28 Nov - 4 Dec
R 20,955
R 27,385
29 Nov - 5 Dec
R 20,955
R 27,385
30 Nov - 6 Dec
R 20,955
R 27,385
1 Dec - 7 Dec
R 20,955
R 27,385
2 Dec - 8 Dec
R 20,955
R 27,385
2025
Twin/Double
Single
2 Jan - 8 Jan
R 21,995
R 28,745
3 Jan - 9 Jan
R 21,995
R 28,745
4 Jan - 10 Jan
R 21,995
R 28,745
5 Jan - 11 Jan
R 21,995
R 28,745
6 Jan - 12 Jan
R 21,995
R 28,745
7 Jan - 13 Jan
R 21,995
R 28,745
8 Jan - 14 Jan
R 21,995
R 28,745
9 Jan - 15 Jan
R 21,995
R 28,745

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