Amazing North West Loops of Vietnam 10 Days

Tour Detail


Destinations: Hanoi – Mai Chau – Moc Chau – Nghia Lo – Mu Cang Chai – Sapa – Hanoi – Ha Long Bay.

Duration: 10 Days

Overview: This 10-day tour begins with your arrival in Hanoi and includes a scenic drive to Mai Chau, Moc Chau, Nghia Lo, and Mu Cang Chai, showcasing the stunning landscapes and ethnic cultures of Northern Vietnam. You’ll explore Sapa through treks and a homestay with the Red Dao people, then embark on a luxurious cruise in Bai Tu Long Bay, visiting Thien Canh Son Cave and Vung Vieng fishing village. The tour concludes with a return to Hanoi for your departure.

Itinerary


Arriving at Noi Bai airport in Hanoi, you’ll be met and driven to your hotel. You’ll have time to relax after your journey. You’ll spend the night in Hanoi.

After breakfast, you’ll drive to Mai Chau, passing through a region of spectacular limestone mountains, winding your way to Mai Chau for lunch. Shortly after, you will reach Moc Chau and then visit an ethnic Thai village to experience their culture and hospitality. You’ll spend the night in Moc Chau.

Driving Distance: 190 km

After breakfast at the homestay, you’ll be on the road by 07:30. You’ll have a long drive ahead of you today, with Nghia Lo as our destination. Along the way, you’ll pass through the Moc Chau plateau and may make a stop at a local tea plantation. You’ll continue traveling through the tribal lands of the Thai, Hmong, and Dao people. You’ll arrive at Nghia Lo town before dark, dinner at a local restaurant and sleep at a local guesthouse.

Driving Distance: 240 km

After breakfast, you’ll drive into one of the most beautiful parts of Northwest Vietnam. Amidst the terraced landscape, you’ll stop for a short hike of about 1.5 hours to a Hmong village, where you will have lunch. Later, you’ll continue through stunning scenery and take another short afternoon walk to visit a Thai village. You’ll then hit the road one last time until you reach Mu Cang Chai, where you will spend the night.

Driving Distance: 100 km

You’ll depart at 08:30. Our goal is Sapa, and we will drive there through rice paddies, ethnic villages, and over the Tram Ton Pass. We’ll make a short stop for a welcome trek of about 2 hours to visit a local village. You’ll arrive in Sapa around 17:00 and check into your hotel. You’ll sepnd the night in Sapa.

Driving Distance: 170 km

After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll have the morning to explore Sapa on your own. Your guide will meet you at 10:30 to transfer you to the start of our beautiful trek. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet and talk with locals working in the fields. Enjoy a picnic lunch en route, then continue trekking to Ta Phin village, home of the Red Dao people. Your Dao host family will warmly welcome you to their traditional home, where you will share an ethnic-style dinner and spend the night.

Trekking Distance: 14 km (4-5 hours)

Trail Difficulty: 4/5

At the first light of day, you’ll see and hear the sounds of morning village life. You can join your host family in their morning activities, such as feeding the animals, cleaning the house, gardening, or preparing breakfast. After breakfast, you can take a short walk around the village or spend more time enjoying the view and company at the homestay. You will then be transported by car or van back to Sapa (a 30-minute drive). Once back in Sapa, you’ll have the afternoon to shower, relax, and explore the town.

Your time will be your own until you’re picked up by car to return to to Sapa then to Lao Cai for the 21:30 overnight sleeper train back to Hanoi.

You’ll arrive in the early morning at around 05.30, then you’ll be picked up to your hotel for breakfast.

After breakfast, you’ll be picked up from your hotel to Ha Long Bay. After a comfortable drive, you’ll arrive at the Indochina Junk Office, where you can relax in the Waiting Lounge before transferring to the cruise.

A short electric car ride will bring you to the port, where you’ll be warmly welcomed aboard the Dragon Legend Cruise. The adventure begins with a refreshing welcome drink and a safety briefing.

As the cruise sets sail, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch while taking in the breathtaking views of Bai Tu Long Bay, with its fascinating rock formations. Your first stop is the well-hidden Thien Canh Son Cave, a natural marvel waiting to be explored.

Next, you’ll have the opportunity to relax on a white sandy beach at Hon Co Island or embark on a kayaking adventure to explore the limestone formations in the bay. Afterward, return to the junk to refresh and watch the sunset on board.

In the evening, you’ll join a Vietnamese cuisine cooking demonstration, learning how to make Banh Xeo, a traditional dish. As night falls, unwind with a peaceful and romantic dinner on the bay. After dinner, you can enjoy some leisure time, perhaps trying your hand at squid fishing, before retiring for the night on the Dragon Legend Cruise.

Begin your day with a refreshing Tai Chi demonstration on the sundeck, setting a peaceful tone for the morning. Afterward, enjoy a delightful breakfast served on the cruise, fueling you for the day’s activities.

Your first adventure takes you to Vung Vieng fishing village, where you’ll explore by a rustic rowboat. Here, you’ll have the chance to meet the local people, pass through the floating school, and see the fish farms that sustain the community.

After your visit to the village, return to the cruise for some relaxation and leisure time. As the cruise continues its journey, you’ll have the opportunity to check out, take some memorable photos, and admire the stunning limestone island scenery.

A delicious buffet will be served as you sail through the bay, providing a final taste of the culinary delights on board. As the cruise returns to the International Port of Ha Long, you’ll prepare for the drive back to Hanoi. You’ll spend the night in Hanoi.

After breakfast, you’ll be free until your driver arrives to take you to Noi Bai airport for your departure flight home. End of services.

PRICE GUIDE & NOTES


Pricing depends on your group size and requested services, such as hotel type. Please fill out the form below, and we'll respond within 24 hours.

Meals: 12 MEALS
Transportation: Private vehicle, Boat, Plane, Motorbike
Accommodation: Based On Your Request

WHAT'S INCLUDED


  • Accommodation sharing double/twin room and overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay.
  • Pick-ups and transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle as specified in the itinerary above.
  • Boat cruises as specified in the programme.
  • One-way train ticket: Lao Cai – Hanoi (air-conditioned soft four-berth cabin, good local standard in Fanxipan Train carriage)
  • Travel in an appropriate private air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced safe driver.
  • The services of experienced English-speaking guides as indicated in the itinerary (your other preferred languages are available upon request)
  • Entry fees for all visits as mentioned in the programme.
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary (B: Breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner; Br: Brunch)
  • Service charges and government taxes.

WHAT'S EXCLUDED


  • Other international flight tickets and airport tax.
  • Visas
  • Lunches and dinners, except as specified above.
  • Drinks, tippings, and personal expenses.
  • Insurance.

BEST TIME TO & & VISIT


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FAQ


How does Vietnam cater to special dietary requirements?
At Luxury Travel Agency Vietnam, we ensure that your dietary needs are met by communicating your restrictions to hotels and restaurants in advance. We also brief our guides on your specific requirements to ensure you receive the appropriate meals throughout your trip.
What vegetarian options are available in Vietnam?
Although vegetarian options can be somewhat limited, especially outside major cities, you will find some vegetarian restaurants in larger urban areas. Vegetable-based dishes are relatively easy to find, and the selection of fresh fruit is exceptional.
Are there restrictions on photography in Vietnam?
Yes, there are restrictions on photography in Vietnam, particularly near military installations, airports, and other sensitive areas. It’s important to respect these guidelines to avoid issues such as equipment confiscation or legal trouble. Always seek permission before photographing restricted sites.
Can itinerary changes be made after arrival in Vietnam?
Yes, itinerary changes can be accommodated where possible. Once the official payment has been made, any changes to the tour details should be requested via email to info@luxurytravelagencyvietnam.com or directly to the staff handling your booking. Please note that changes may incur surcharges from hotels and restaurants, depending on the specific case. Additionally, the ability to amend reservations is subject to the availability of our suppliers, including hotels, restaurants, and other service providers. Minor changes involving minimal or no additional costs are typically offered as a complimentary service.
Can I enter Vietnam later than my granted arrival date in visa approval letter?
Yes, you can enter later than the granted arrival date in visa approval letter providing that you exit by granted exit date.
Can I purchase antiques in Vietnam?
You can purchase antiques in Vietnam, but keep in mind that only items less than 100 years old are legally permitted for export. The process for exporting recent artifacts can be complex, and there is a risk of high-quality replicas being confiscated at the airport. It’s advisable to buy from reputable dealers and ensure all items have the necessary documentation.
Are internet facilities widely available in Vietnam?
Yes, internet access is widely available in cities and major towns throughout Vietnam. Most large hotels provide Wi-Fi for guests, and internet cafes are plentiful and affordable.
As an American, should I expect hostility in Vietnam due to the war?
You might be pleasantly surprised by the warm reception you'll receive in Vietnam. The focus of the community is on the present and future, and they warmly welcome visitors from all backgrounds without holding onto past grievances. In fact, American tourists consistently rank among the top visitors to Vietnam.