- 4.9/5 499 Latest reviews
- Destination: Vietnam
- Duration: 9 Days
- Tour Type: Private & Bespoke
- Tour Style: Nature
About This Trip
Experience the best of Vietnam’s landscapes and culture on the Vietnam Nature & Adventure Explorer, a 9-day journey designed for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Cycle through Hanoi’s charming streets, trek Sapa’s breathtaking terraced hills and ethnic villages, glide along the tranquil waters of Ninh Binh, and cruise among the iconic limestone karsts of Halong Bay. This private tour combines authentic cultural experiences with the thrill of outdoor adventure.
Summary
DAY
PLACE
HIGHLIGHTS
1 - 2
Hanoi
Countryside cycling, Egg coffee tasting, Old Quarter exploration
3 – 5
Sapa
Trekking through terraced rice fields, visiting ethnic villages
6
Ninh Binh
Hoa Lu temples, Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An grotto boat trip
7 – 8
Halong Bay
Cruise among limestone karsts, cave exploration, optional kayaking
9
Hanoi
Departure, street food tour (optional)
Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
Welcome to Vietnam’s vibrant capital! Upon arrival at Hanoi airport, meet your private guide and transfer to your hotel. Stroll the charming streets of the Old Quarter, admire French-colonial architecture, and visit Hoan Kiem Lake, the heart of the city. In the evening, enjoy an optional water puppet show — a unique Vietnamese cultural experience.
Note: Evening free for leisure or light exploration.
- Hanoi
- Day 2: Hanoi Countryside Cycling
Start your adventure with a scenic cycling tour through Hanoi’s countryside. Cross the historic Long Bien Bridge, ride through peaceful riverside villages, and explore lush vegetable fields. Visit a local family to learn about bonsai cultivation, observe traditional pottery, and wander through lively village markets. Enjoy a home-cooked lunch with a local family and end your day with Hanoi’s famous egg coffee.
Distance: ~15 km cycling with multiple sightseeing stops (approx. 4 hours). Private car option available.
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- Hanoi
- Day 3: Hanoi – Sapa
Drive to Sapa (approx. 5 hours), enjoying breathtaking views of winding mountain roads, terraced fields, and quaint villages. Stop at local markets or scenic viewpoints along the way. After lunch at a local restaurant, explore Ma Tra and Ta Phin villages, interact with ethnic minority communities, and observe traditional crafts and textiles. Arrive in Sapa town, check in to your hotel, and relax.
Note: Scenic stops for photos and light walks; perfect for capturing memorable landscapes.
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- Sapa
- Day 4: Sapa Trekking & Ethnic Villages
Embark on a full-day trek through Sapa’s stunning terraced rice fields. Visit Y Linh Ho, Lao Chai, and Ta Van villages, learning about Black H’mong and Dzay cultural traditions. Meet locals, see traditional clothing and handicrafts, and enjoy panoramic views of the valley. Take breaks to taste local tea and fresh mountain fruits.
Distance: ~12 km trekking, moderate difficulty. Includes cultural immersion with local families.
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- Sapa
- Day 5: Sapa – Hanoi
Morning at leisure for optional activities:
Silver Waterfall & Heaven Gate — scenic viewpoints, free of charge
Fansipan Peak cable car — the “Roof of Indochina” (payable locally)
After optional exploration, return to Hanoi (approx. 5-hour drive). Stop along the way for photos of stunning mountain landscapes and ethnic villages. Arrive in Hanoi in the early evening.
Note: Optional activities can be booked with your guide in advance.
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- Hanoi
- Day 6: Hanoi - Ninh Binh
Discover Ninh Binh, Vietnam’s “Halong Bay on land.” Visit the historic Hoa Lu temples, the first capital of Vietnam, and marvel at ancient architecture. Explore Bai Dinh Pagoda, Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist complex with hundreds of statues. After lunch, enjoy a traditional boat ride through the mystical Trang An Grottoes, passing limestone cliffs, caves, and serene waterways surrounded by lush greenery.
Note: Comfortable shoes recommended; boat ride lasts ~2–3 hours.
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- Ninh Binh
- Day 7: Ninh Binh – Halong Bay
Drive to Halong Bay (approx. 3.5 hours), then board your cruise. Sail among towering limestone karsts, hidden grottoes, and emerald waters. Watch the sunset from the deck and enjoy fresh seafood for dinner. Optional activities include kayaking, swimming, or simply relaxing on deck while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
Note: Bring essentials for the cruise; luggage transfer is handled by staff.
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- Halong Bay
- Day 8: Halong Bay – Hanoi
Begin the day with a Tai Chi session on the deck as the sun rises. Explore Thien Canh Son Cave, filled with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites. Enjoy a brunch onboard before disembarking at 10:45 am. Return to Hanoi (approx. 4 hours) and finish the day with a street food tour in the Old Quarter, tasting local favorites like Banh Mi, Pho, and sticky rice desserts.
Distance: Easy walking 1–2 km on the cruise.
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- Day 9: Hanoi Departure
After breakfast, enjoy free time in Hanoi for last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Perhaps visit Temple of Literature or stroll along Hoan Kiem Lake. Your private guide will transfer you to the airport for your departure flight, bringing your Vietnam Nature & Adventure Explorer to a memorable close.
Note: Check-out time usually 12:00 pm; ensure flight timing aligns with hotel transfer.
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Trip Highlights
Ninh Binh Day Excursion
Explore ancient Hoa Lu, Bai Dinh Pagoda, and Trang An caves by bike and boat.
Hoi An Sunset Lantern Boat
Cruise rivers at twilight, release lanterns, and admire Hoi An’s magical evening glow.
Water Puppetry Experience
Visit a local puppeteer’s home and learn the art of Vietnam’s traditional water puppetry.
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