North Vietnam Explorer tour

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8 Days From

~~$1730~~

$1648

North Vietnam Explorer tour

8 Days Starting and ending in Hanoi, Vietnam

Visiting: Hanoi, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay

Tour operator:

Encounters Travel

Tour code:

190

Specialist Group:

Singles Solo

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Moderate

Age range:

8-95

Special diets catered:

Please advise request

Tour operated in:

English

From: $1730 $1648 (USD) Travel Club discount: -$82

NB: Prices correct on 22-Feb-2025 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on the North Vietnam Explorer tour, a captivating journey through Vietnam's vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. Begin in the bustling streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, where you'll savor local street food and explore the city's rich history. Venture to Sapa for an unforgettable trekking experience, meeting ethnic minority communities and soaking in the breathtaking mountain vistas. Discover the natural wonders of Ninh Binh, with its majestic limestone peaks and serene boat rides. The adventure culminates with a romantic overnight stay on a traditional junk boat in Halong Bay, where you'll explore limestone caves, enjoy sea kayaking, and relax under the stars. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty, ideal for singles seeking an enriching travel experience.

Highlights

Soaking up the hustle and bustle of Hanoi's Old Quarter
Trekking in Sapa and meeting ethnic minority people
Marvel at the natural beauty of limestone peaks in Ninh Binh
Spending a night on a junk in romantic Halong Bay
Exploring the ancient limestone caves of Halong Bay
Visiting the floating fishing villages in Lan Ha Bay
Taking a traditional boat ride along the Boi River in Ninh Binh

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Arrive Hanoi And Transfer To Hotel

Location: Hanoi

Accommodation Name: Hanoi - 3-star hotel

We meet and greet you at the airport and provide a private transfer to your hotel where you can settle in and explore your new surroundings. In the evening your guide will take you on a tour of Hanoi's street food. We start our adventure into the world of street food with a taste of the local brew called "bai hoi". This very fizzy draft beer originated from eastern Europe. We continue though the streets and stalls, sampling the many wonderful culinary delights on offer, including Vietnamese flame grilled barbecue of meats, tofu and vegetables on skewers and much more. We end the evening with a wander around the lake and take dessert at Hanoi’s most famous ice cream parlour.

Day 2 : Hanoi City Tour & Overnight Train To Lao Cai

Location: Hanoi

Accommodation Name: On board sleeper train

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

This city tour takes in Hanoi's essential sites. In the morning you'll visit Ho Chi Minh Complex including the Mausoleum, his former stilt-house residence, the Presidential Palace and the Ho Chi Minh Museum. You then have time to expore the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long - centre of regional political power for almost 13 centuries. This has recently been recognized as the World Cultural Heritage Site. After lunch you visit The Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university dating back to 1070, and Long Bien bridge, constructed from 1899 - 1902 whilst Vietnam was under French occupancy. Later you'll take a fun one-hour cyclo tour through the narrow, chaotic streets of the Old Quarter - a must for any visitor to Hanoi!, before finishing the day with a Vietnamese coffee in a local cafe overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake. Note: The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is closed all day on Monday and Fridays, as well as from 1st October to 30th November (approx.) for annual conservation. Later in th evening you board an overnight train from Hanoi to the border town of Lao Cai. Catch some sleep along the way in soft sleeper berths on the express train (4 berth shared cabins). The train departs around 21:00pm and arrives into Lao Cai the following day at around 06:00am.

Day 3 : Lao Cai, Drive To Sapa, Start Trekking

Location: Sapa

Accommodation Name: Sin Chai village - Bamboo huts

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Our trekking adventure starts with the drive from Lao Cai Station to the mountain town of Sapa. This drive takes about an hour, but it's worthwhile as the scenery on our northward journey into the highlands is both dramatic and breathtaking. We arrive in Sapa around 8.00 am and start the day proper with a good breakfast. Sapa is a former French hill station set in a high valley near the Vietnam-China border and is surrounded by picturesque mountains. At 1600m, its cool climate inspired the French to build villas here as their summer retreat from Hanoi. Today, Sapa attracts visitors from around the world due to its stunning scenery, crisp climate, colourful markets and ethnic hill tribes living in nearby villages. After breakfast we take a jeep ride to the trekking route. The trek starts by walking through the wonderfully scenic "Ban Ho" valley. En route you'll have a chance to explore the wooden houses, which traditionally belong to the Tay ethnic minority. We continue trekking to Thanh Phu village where we stop for lunch in a local house. After lunch you continue on to Sin Chai village of the Red Dao minority where you'll spend the night in bamboo huts. The wonderful hospitably of the Red Dao will make you feel so at home. Approx: 1 hour driving/ 5 hours trekking/ 1 hour lunch.

Day 4 : Sapa, Trekking Then Train To Hanoi

Location: Sapa

Accommodation Name: On board sleeper train

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

You start the trek today downhill toward the My Son village, which belongs to the Xafo ethnic minority, one of the smallest group's ethnic in Northern Vietnam. After an hour and a half walking you'll reach the Red Dao village of Nam Toong, where we will take lunch. After lunch you'll continue descending back to Ban Ho village, where you'll be able to enjoy a swim at the nearby refreshing waterfall of La Vie. In the afternoon, transfer to Lao Cai for the overnight train journey to Hanoi. Catch some sleep along the way in soft sleeper berths on the express train (4 berth shared cabins). The train departs around 20:00pm and arrives into Hanoi the following day at around 05:00am.

Day 5 : Arrive Hanoi, Drive To Ninh Binh

Location: Ninh Binh

Accommodation Name: Ninh Binh - 4-star hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Hoa Lu, 100 km south of Hanoi, was the Vietnamese capital city under the Dinh and Le Dynasties between 968 and 1009 AD. Some of the structures and tombs have survived the years and can still be seen today. The area is also one of an outstanding natural beauty with limestone peaks whose splendour is said to surpass even that of Halong Bay. This morning, your tour guide will be meeting you at the train station then depart for Ninh Binh province, which will take two hours driving. Upon arrival you'll spend time visiting the Dinh and Le sanctuaries before we head to Tam Coc for lunch at a local restaurant. Next we take a traditional boat ride along the Boi River which is lined by the rice paddies and protected by the limestone cliffs, and en route you'll pass through caves and ancient temples. Following the boat trip head to Cuc Phuong national park for the evening.

Day 6 : Ninh Binh To Halong Bay

Md. Parvej Chowdhury

Savoir Aimer (Admin)

Location: Halong Bay

Accommodation Name: Halong Bay - Junk boat

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After early breakfast, you'll be transferred to Halong Bay. You'll enjoy an overnight boat cruise on Halong bay, which is listed as a World Heritage Area of outstanding natural beauty. The trip of Halong Bay is unforgettable. Visit ancient limestone caves and enjoy sea kayaking and swimming, weather permitting. Back on board the junk boat you can relax on deck with a drink to watch the sunset. In the evening you'll enjoy a freshly prepared seafood dinner under the stars.

Day 7 : Lan Ha Bay

Location: Lan Ha Bay

Accommodation Name: Halong Bay - Junk boat

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we board a smaller boat to explore Lan Ha, a remote corner of the bay. Here we visit the Leaning Tower, a popular rock climbing cliff, then off at some small floating fishing villages to see the farm pens that hold a variety of fish, shrimps and crabs that the locals farm in the bay. Later in the morning there is more time for swimming or to explore the area in a kayak. After lunch the boat cruises to Three Peaches beach, a beautiful white sandy beach, where there is plenty of time top up your tan, weather permitting!

Day 8 : Halong Bay, Return To Hanoi For Flight Home

Location: Halong Bay

Accommodation Name: N/A

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Enjoy an early morning swim followed by breakfast. The tour then visits the "Cave of Surprises" before cruising back to the main harbour for the return drive to Hanoi. In the evening you are transferred to the airport for you flight home. Note: Day use room in Hanoi is not included.

What's Included

Accommodation

All accommodation as stated in the itinerary is included.
Transport and Transfers

All transport and transfers are included.
Airport Transfer Service

24-hour airport arrival and departure transfer service is included.
Local Tour Guide

Services of a local tour guide during sightseeing and activities are included.
Admission Fees

Admission fees, with instruction where necessary, are included.

What's Not Included

International Flights

International flights are not included but are available on request.
Visa Fees

Visa fees are not included. They are currently waived for GB nationals. A pre-registration VISA letter can be arranged for other nationalities, but the visa stamp fee upon arrival is $45 per person.
Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory and not included, but available on request.
Personal Expenses

Drinks, snacks, tips, and other personal expenses such as laundry are not included.
Tips

Tips for tour guides and drivers are not included.
Other Items

Any other items not mentioned above are not included.

More Info

This tour of Vietnam covers much of what is a diverse and interesting about the north of the country. Starting in Hanaoi, the capital, we have included Sapa for its trekking and minority villages, Ninh Binh region for its limestone peaks which rival those of Halong Bay and of course time exploring spectacular Halong Bay itself. Your itinerary begins with a city tour of Hanoi before taking the overnight train to Lao Cai and the trekking area of Sapa. We will spend two days exploring the valleys and peaks of this beautiful region while getting to know the local people and their customs. We then return to Lao Cai for the overnight train back to Hanoi for an early breakfast at the hotel before having the rest of the day free to explore this city. After a night back in Hanoi we travel to Hoa Lu, famous for being the country's capital from 968 and 1009 AD. This area is one of stunning natural beauty which you will see best during your boat ride along the Boi River. Next we travel to stunning Halong Bay and spend 2 days cruising on a traditional junk around the limestone outcrops as well as sea kayaking and swimming - this is bound to be one of your tour highlights. Your tour ends back in Hanoi. This tour combines well with a further exploration of southern Vietnam, a visit to a relaxing beach destination, or an extension into Cambodia to visit Angkor Watt and Tonle Sap. This is a sample private tour itinerary and we can customise the daily itinerary, duration and accommodation levels and styles as much or as little as you wish.

Mode of Transport

Travel seamlessly with all transport and transfers included, featuring a private airport transfer, an overnight train journey in soft sleeper berths, and a traditional boat ride along the Boi River. Enjoy the convenience and comfort of well-organized transportation throughout your adventure.

Accommodation

Experience a variety of accommodations including a 3-star hotel in Hanoi, bamboo huts in Sin Chai village, a 4-star hotel in Ninh Binh, and a memorable night on a junk boat in Halong Bay. Enjoy the unique charm and comfort each location offers throughout your journey.

Check out our Q&As

What kind of accommodation can I expect during the North Vietnam Explorer tour?

The tour includes a variety of accommodations such as a 3-star hotel in Hanoi, bamboo huts in Sin Chai village, and a junk boat in Halong Bay. You will also spend nights on an overnight sleeper train with shared cabins.
Are meals included in the North Vietnam Explorer tour?

Yes, meals are included as indicated in the itinerary. This typically includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner on most days of the tour.
What activities are included in the Halong Bay portion of the tour?

During the Halong Bay portion, you will enjoy an overnight boat cruise, visit ancient limestone caves, and have opportunities for sea kayaking and swimming, weather permitting. You will also have a freshly prepared seafood dinner under the stars.
Will there be opportunities to interact with local ethnic minority groups during the tour?

Yes, the tour includes trekking in Sapa where you will meet ethnic minority people, such as the Xafo and Red Dao communities, and have the opportunity to explore their villages.
What is the transportation arrangement for the North Vietnam Explorer tour?

The tour includes all transport and transfers as stated in the itinerary, including a 24-hour airport arrival and departure transfer service. You will also travel by overnight train and traditional boat rides.

Is there a guide provided during the sightseeing activities?

Yes, the services of a local tour guide are provided during sightseeing and activities throughout the tour.
Is travel insurance compulsory?

Yes! Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event).
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

You are always able to change your travel date. However, some charges may apply depending on how long before your departure you make the change. Our flexible booking conditions and reduced charges will apply if you are changing date because of a Covid-19 reason or because your government is advising against travel to your destination. Please check our detailed booking conditions for full details.
When is my balance payment due?

60 days prior to departure
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

On most of our group tours, solo travellers may choose to form a temporary 'tour bubble' and share a room with another traveller of the same sex in the group. If a room share is not available then a single room supplement may be payable, with the costs for these kept as low as possible. We have also removed compulsory single supplements from many of our tours, and are reducing the cost by 50% on s
Can I transfer my booking to someone else?

Customers may transfer their booking or any Credit on File to another person who satisfies all the relevant conditions to the tour, provided that we are notified not less than 7 days before departure, and the transferee agrees to these booking conditions and all other terms of the contract between us. The Client and new booker are jointly and severally responsible for any outstanding payments and a transfer administration fee of GBP50 / USD75 / CAD100 / AUD100 / NZD100 / EUR75 / ZAR1000 / INR5000 or GBP100 / USD150 / CAD200 / AUD200 / NZD200 / EUR150 / ZAR2000 / INR10,000 if the transfer is made less than 60 days before departure. Important Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended or transferred after they have been confirmed (for example flight tickets, Gorilla Permits) and any alteration could incur a cancellation and rebooking charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Lia Aiello

local Guide

January 2020

Very professional and customer service oriented company. All of the staff I encountered were thoughtful, and accommodating. When there was a bit of a concern I had, I was not brushed off and treated rudely as I've experienced with other companies; my concern was addressed immediately in a fair manner. I highly recommend this tour company; they treat people with respect and honestly seem to want your trip to be the best it can be

Dariela M

Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand

December 2016

This was the second tour I booked with Encounter travel. The first one was in Egypt and we had such a fantastic experience that my family and I went directly to them again for Southeast Asia. Our agent was Anthony... he was organized, attentive and very patient with us for all our questions, concerns and requests. He always responded in an excellent timely manner. Our 3 guides in Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand were AMAZING!! Phong, Santhou, and Pramote made the experience so wonderful. All 3 were very knowledgeable about their own countries and cultures, we learned so much from them, they were attentive and very friendly. Both the guides and drivers gave great service and greeted us with with bottled water and wipes every day. By the time we left each country, they weren't just our guides, they were friends. My family and I loved this experience so much and have nothing but great things to say about Encounter Travel!!

gary h

another brilliant trip

January 2014

I have just returned from vietnam and cambodia for the second year in a row .i had a brilliant time everything went to the way it had been planned out.the hotels .guides.and day trips were great it,s the third year in a row i have used this company with Anthony Horribin sorting out all the fine details of the trips .without any drama,s.I will be using them again very soon.

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~~$1730~~ $1648 (USD)