About this trip
This 13-day trip takes you through the mountainous north of Vietnam, starting and ending in Hanoi, with the bulk of the journey spent moving through remote highland areas rather than sticking to the well-worn tourist trail.
You begin with time in Hanoi's old quarter, exploring its craft streets and food, before heading out to Ba Vi, Mai Hich, Pu Luong, Nghia Lo, Mu Cang Chai, Sapa and Bac Ha in turn. These are places built around terraced valleys, ethnic minority villages and long views over the hills.
The trip closes with a boat or cruise excursion before returning to Hanoi, where the group disbands.
What you'll do
- Explore Hanoi's old quarter and try local food and drink
- Take in mountain and valley views across Ba Vi and Mai Hich
- Walk through the terraced landscapes of Pu Luong and Mu Cang Chai
- Visit highland towns including Nghia Lo, Sapa and Bac Ha
- Join a boat or cruise excursion before returning to Hanoi
- Covers a lot of ground across the northern highlands, so expect regular travel days between stops
- Suited to those who want hiking and rural scenery alongside city time in Hanoi
- Can be run as a family or custom group trip, and is offered around Christmas and New Year
Worth it if you want authentic northern Vietnam with minimal tourist crowds and reliable logistics. Think twice if you expect private rooms as standard or prefer fully independent itinerary changes.
- Halong Bay overnight cruise and Mu Cang Chai rice terraces genuinely deliver stunning scenery and memorable moments.
- Remote villages and indigenous communities offer real cultural immersion away from typical tourist trail areas.
- Homestays include dormitory sleeping; private rooms cost extra and aren't always clear upfront in booking.
- Guide quality varies but responsive company support via WhatsApp helps resolve issues quickly during the trip.
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Getting there
Opens Trip.com, pre-filled — one-way so you can book your return whenever. Prices & booking shown there.
Where to stay
A night before your tour in Hanoi · 20 Jul – 21 Jul
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