Duration
7 days / 6 nights
Price Per Person
Interests
Destinations

Experience the commotion and calm of life in Northern Vietnam. Explore the ancient streets of Hanoi, Vietnam’s millennium-old capital, where modernity and history meet in an eruption of intensity, color, culture and the beauty and bustle of urban chaos. From the heights of cityscape to valley low, observe the calm of rural life. Travel through lush valleys spotted with stilt homes and rice paddies. Interact with the locals in their fishing and farming communities. From ancient architecture, to majestic limestone-faced mountains, to turquoise bays and luminous grottos, this seven-day voyage has something for everyone. 

This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.

Highlights

  • Cyclo Tour: Hanoi is an eclectic mix of ancient temples, maze-like streets, and remnants of colonial-era architecture. Join the rush of traffic on a rickshaw-style tour of the country's capital.
  • Ha Long Bay: A cruise through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay takes travelers past dramatic karst formations, floating villages, and into the caverns of the Sung Sot caves.
  • Wildlife Watching: Cuc Phuong National Park is Vietnam's largest nature reserve and the jungle's protected population includes endangered animals such as pangolins, pond turtles, and rare species of primate.

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Hanoi

Touch down in Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi, where your private car will be waiting for you. After hotel check-in, rest and refresh before embarking on your first adventure: a cyclo (Vietnamese rickshaw) tour through the ancient streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Embrace the frenzied juxtaposition of old and new, urban bustle and nature’s beauty with a tour around Hoan Kiem Lake and the ancient temple it surrounds. The city’s historic center hosts several galleries, museums, temples and gardens for your exploration. Round-off your first day with some relaxation and divine dining.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel
  • Theatrical Splendor: This glamorous hotel turns a stay into an experience. Over a thousand pieces of operatic memorabilia and thematic interiors ensconce guests in Bill Bensley’s vision of opera’s golden days passed.
  • Location: Just a mere steps away from the iconic Hanoi Opera House, the Capella Hanoi sits in the prestigious Hoan Kiem quarter, offering guests convenient access to cultural highlights, shopping, and restaurants.
  • Curated Culture: Capella Hotel Group’s focus on cultural experiences is a cornerstone at each of its properties. From intertwining local culture in the property design to bringing local cuisine to its house restaurant and bar menus, Capella’s Culturists further enhance guests’ stays with complimentary Rituals and Programming curated to furture explore the local culture.
See Hotel
Capella Hanoi Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

History: The hotel has its own bomb shelter used in the American War (1964-1975) with a complimentary path of history tour offered daily for in-house guests.

Relaxation: Enjoy complimentary tai chi and yoga classes.

Food: A wide range of dining choices from seafood buffets to French fine dining, European rustic menu and Vietnamese modern cuisine.

See Hotel
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Preferred Hotel

Day 2

Mai Chau

Traverse 4 hours westward to the province of Hoa Binh. In perfect contrast to yesterday’s experience, today, you will observe a calmer side of Vietnam. Your destination, the Pom Coong village, is nestled in the valley of Mai Chau. Here you will stay at the Mai Chau Lodge, where you can relax before you continue your journey tomorrow.

Hotel Options
About

Nestled amongst the tribal villages in the rolling, green valley of Mai Chau you will find the remote Mai Chau Lodge. This entirely unique approach to cultural exploration and relaxation combined will satiate every one of your senses and adventurous expectations.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Mai Chau
Mai Chau

Day 3

Hanoi

After a good breakfast, hop on a cycle and explore the villages of Northern Vietnam’s highlands. Immerse yourself in the simplistic purity of the vibrant local culture. Relish the serenity of the countryside before returning to the rush of Hanoi. Enjoy an enchanting evening of entertainment as you take in a water puppetry performance, a unique Vietnamese tradition that dates back to the 11th century.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel
  • Theatrical Splendor: This glamorous hotel turns a stay into an experience. Over a thousand pieces of operatic memorabilia and thematic interiors ensconce guests in Bill Bensley’s vision of opera’s golden days passed.
  • Location: Just a mere steps away from the iconic Hanoi Opera House, the Capella Hanoi sits in the prestigious Hoan Kiem quarter, offering guests convenient access to cultural highlights, shopping, and restaurants.
  • Curated Culture: Capella Hotel Group’s focus on cultural experiences is a cornerstone at each of its properties. From intertwining local culture in the property design to bringing local cuisine to its house restaurant and bar menus, Capella’s Culturists further enhance guests’ stays with complimentary Rituals and Programming curated to furture explore the local culture.
See Hotel
Capella Hanoi Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

History: The hotel has its own bomb shelter used in the American War (1964-1975) with a complimentary path of history tour offered daily for in-house guests.

Relaxation: Enjoy complimentary tai chi and yoga classes.

Food: A wide range of dining choices from seafood buffets to French fine dining, European rustic menu and Vietnamese modern cuisine.

See Hotel
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Preferred Hotel

Day 4

Halong Bay

Today you will visit UNESCO World Heritage site, Halong Bay - a 3-hour drive from Hanoi. The impressive limestone bay and its crystal-blue waters are nothing short of breathtaking. Take in the site while enjoying a lunch buffet aboard a cruise. Following this, you will have the opportunity to visit an authentic fishing village. Take time to appreciate the unique beauty and ingenuity of the floating homes and way of life in small water-based communities. Then it’s back to the cruise for a sunset mocktail, cooking class, dinner and a movie.

Hotel Options
About

The best way to explore the vast karst-strewn waters of Halong Bay is aboard a private junk cruise, which allows you to spend two or three days discovering the area from the comfort of your own luxury cabin, with a crew at your service and superb onboard dining. You'll spend your nights moored in a quiet area of the bay and your days cruising the waters observing the spectacular scenery, as well as visiting local fishing villages, kayaking and swimming.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Halong Bay
Halong Bay

Day 5

Hanoi

Do as the locals do and greet the sun with a morning Tai Chi class on a rooftop deck. After an early breakfast take a boat-ride to the enchanting Sung Sot cave. Living up to its alternative names “Amazing” cave and “Cave of Surprises” this ancient system of grottos and their chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites reaching up to 100 feet are simply spectacular. Enjoy your last evening in Hanoi and relax for the day ahead.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel
  • Theatrical Splendor: This glamorous hotel turns a stay into an experience. Over a thousand pieces of operatic memorabilia and thematic interiors ensconce guests in Bill Bensley’s vision of opera’s golden days passed.
  • Location: Just a mere steps away from the iconic Hanoi Opera House, the Capella Hanoi sits in the prestigious Hoan Kiem quarter, offering guests convenient access to cultural highlights, shopping, and restaurants.
  • Curated Culture: Capella Hotel Group’s focus on cultural experiences is a cornerstone at each of its properties. From intertwining local culture in the property design to bringing local cuisine to its house restaurant and bar menus, Capella’s Culturists further enhance guests’ stays with complimentary Rituals and Programming curated to furture explore the local culture.
See Hotel
Capella Hanoi Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

History: The hotel has its own bomb shelter used in the American War (1964-1975) with a complimentary path of history tour offered daily for in-house guests.

Relaxation: Enjoy complimentary tai chi and yoga classes.

Food: A wide range of dining choices from seafood buffets to French fine dining, European rustic menu and Vietnamese modern cuisine.

See Hotel
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Preferred Hotel

Day 6

Ninh Binh

A scenic 2-hour southbound drive will bring you to the province of Ninh Binh where you will enjoy lunch and prepare for a boat trip through the village of Kenh Ga. Set amongst an impressive, mountainous landscape of limestone cliffs, winding rivers and tranquil lakes the Kenh Ga village-tour offers a glimpse into the peaceful patterns of these rural communities. A short drive to where the mountains meet the sea will bring you to Truong An, home to the 17th century temples of Dinh and Le, built in honor of monarchs long-past. Check in to your hotel and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Hotel Options
About

In the beautiful and mysterious province of Ninh Binh, just two hours south of Hanoi, the sleek, contemporary Cuc Phuong Resort meets the wilds of nature and ancient Vietnam. With Cuc Phuong National Park less than two miles away, this ecological resort is surrounded by stunning scenery and sites of natural interest including ancient caves and a 1,000-year-old Chò tree.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

About

Located in the beautiful surroundings of historic Ninh Binh, Vietnam’s ancient capital, the Emeralda is truly a jewel set amidst natural beauty. Just a short 90 minute drive from Hanoi, the hotel is situated on the brink of Van Long Nature Reserve, home to countless species of flora and fauna, making it an unforgettably tranquil retreat.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh

Day 7

Departure

For the final day of your guided tour enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel and travel by car to Cuc Phuong National Park. Vietnam’s first National park, Cuc Phuong is a pristine window into Vietnam’s rich biodiversity. A unique opportunity to observe hundreds of mammal, bird, reptile, and fish species, keep an eye out for everything from primates to porcupines. Alas, all good things must come to an end, it is time to return you to Hanoi.

Suggested Hotels For Day 1

Capella Hanoi
Preferred Hotel

Capella Hanoi

Designed by "staritect" du jour Bill Bensley and inspired by the Hanoi Opera House, the new Capella Hanoi will incorporate the capital's historic and opulent colonial-era architecture. Located within Hanoi's Hoan Kiem district, the property is comprised of 47 palatial-style guest rooms, lavishly decorated in contrasting dark and light tones with lashings of color, signature of Bensley's aesthetic.
See Hotel
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
Preferred Hotel

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

This richly historic 358-room French colonial masterpiece opened in 1901 and is one of Vietnam's finest hotels, with luxuriously appointed rooms, attentive staff and gracious service. It is ideally located in central Hanoi and houses a beautiful interior garden. Excellent French cuisine is served at Le Beaulieu, and Hanoi specialties are offered at Spice Garden. The hotel has a well-equipped fitness center with cardio machines and weights, as well as a swimming pool and spa offering massage treatments. All of the guest rooms have broadband Internet access and are decorated in an opulent, neo-classical style.

See Hotel

Suggested Hotel For Day 2

Mai Chau Lodge

Mai Chau Lodge


Nestled amongst the tribal villages in the rolling, green valley of Mai Chau you will find the remote Mai Chau Lodge. This entirely unique approach to cultural exploration and relaxation combined will satiate every one of your senses and adventurous expectations. A fantastic blend of modern comfort, breathtaking natural beauty, rich history and culture, will leave you with lasting memories of your stay in Vietnam. Your Mai Chau experience is sure to be memorable and action packed, with a full range of activities - from swimming to kayaking, to cycling and rock climbing - you will not have a dull moment during your stay. The Mai Chau Lodge offers guests comfortable accommodation with a choice of mountain or valley views, along with access to all of the hotel’s impressive facilities. Rooms are tastefully designed with a focus on textiles and traditional furnishings and are equipped with Western style bedding. High ceilings and large windows enhance your space giving the room a peaceful and uplifting feel. 


Suggested Hotels For Day 3

Capella Hanoi
Preferred Hotel

Capella Hanoi

Designed by "staritect" du jour Bill Bensley and inspired by the Hanoi Opera House, the new Capella Hanoi will incorporate the capital's historic and opulent colonial-era architecture. Located within Hanoi's Hoan Kiem district, the property is comprised of 47 palatial-style guest rooms, lavishly decorated in contrasting dark and light tones with lashings of color, signature of Bensley's aesthetic.
See Hotel
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
Preferred Hotel

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

This richly historic 358-room French colonial masterpiece opened in 1901 and is one of Vietnam's finest hotels, with luxuriously appointed rooms, attentive staff and gracious service. It is ideally located in central Hanoi and houses a beautiful interior garden. Excellent French cuisine is served at Le Beaulieu, and Hanoi specialties are offered at Spice Garden. The hotel has a well-equipped fitness center with cardio machines and weights, as well as a swimming pool and spa offering massage treatments. All of the guest rooms have broadband Internet access and are decorated in an opulent, neo-classical style.

See Hotel

Suggested Hotel For Day 4

Private Junk Cruise

Private Junk Cruise

The best way to explore the vast karst-strewn waters of Halong Bay is aboard a private junk cruise, which allows you to spend two or three days discovering the area from the comfort of your own luxury cabin, with a crew at your service and superb onboard dining. You'll spend your nights moored in a quiet area of the bay and your days cruising the waters observing the spectacular scenery, as well as visiting local fishing villages, kayaking and swimming. What better way to enjoy Halong Bay than sipping a cold drink on the deck of your own private junk as the sun goes down?

Suggested Hotels For Day 5

Capella Hanoi
Preferred Hotel

Capella Hanoi

Designed by "staritect" du jour Bill Bensley and inspired by the Hanoi Opera House, the new Capella Hanoi will incorporate the capital's historic and opulent colonial-era architecture. Located within Hanoi's Hoan Kiem district, the property is comprised of 47 palatial-style guest rooms, lavishly decorated in contrasting dark and light tones with lashings of color, signature of Bensley's aesthetic.
See Hotel
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
Preferred Hotel

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

This richly historic 358-room French colonial masterpiece opened in 1901 and is one of Vietnam's finest hotels, with luxuriously appointed rooms, attentive staff and gracious service. It is ideally located in central Hanoi and houses a beautiful interior garden. Excellent French cuisine is served at Le Beaulieu, and Hanoi specialties are offered at Spice Garden. The hotel has a well-equipped fitness center with cardio machines and weights, as well as a swimming pool and spa offering massage treatments. All of the guest rooms have broadband Internet access and are decorated in an opulent, neo-classical style.

See Hotel

Suggested Hotels For Day 6

Emeralda

Emeralda

Located in the beautiful surroundings of historic Ninh Binh, Vietnam’s ancient capital, the Emeralda is truly a jewel set amidst natural beauty. Just a short 90 minute drive from Hanoi, the hotel is situated on the brink of Van Long Nature Reserve, home to countless species of flora and fauna, making it an unforgettably tranquil retreat. Beautifully designed to capture traditional Vietnamese architecture, the emphasis is on celebrating nature and the environment, from the building itself, to the cuisine served across its four restaurants. Indoor and al fresco dining options are available with dishes that nod to Vietnam’s rich heritage - from authentic, traditional favourites, to French-inspired, colonial fare. Guests can choose from the extensive list in the wine bar or relax poolside with a refreshing cocktail before dinner. Superior and deluxe suites offer comfort as well as style, not to mention stunning views of the beautiful scenery. Finally, guests in search of relaxation will find it in the fully-equipped spa.

Cuc Phuong Resort

Cuc Phuong Resort


In the beautiful and mysterious province of Ninh Binh, just two hours south of Hanoi, the sleek, contemporary Cuc Phuong Resort meets the wilds of nature and ancient Vietnam. With Cuc Phuong National Park less than two miles away, this ecological resort is surrounded by stunning scenery and sites of natural interest including ancient caves and a 1,000-year-old Chò tree. The hotel’s luxury suites and bungalows are spacious yet cozy, decorated with natural materials and equipped with WiFi and LCD televisions. The resort’s position atop a natural mineral spring allows for hot mineral water to be piped into each room’s private wooden tub, for a relaxing bath with healing properties. The same water flows in the resort’s indoor and outdoor swimming pools and further health-giving properties can be enjoyed in the mineral mud baths. With mountain views and eye-catching dishes, dining at the Dabiru restaurant is as beautiful as it is tasty, not to mention healthy with the use of organic, local ingredients. 


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Why Remote Lands?

Exclusively Asia

With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.

Travelogues

An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.

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Peter & Maria, London

Peter & Maria, London

We are very seasoned travellers and Remote Lands certainly delivered on our recent trip to Indochina.

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Couple from New York

The pre-planning by the Remote Lands team made sure our specific areas of interest were also covered...We are looking forward to our next journey!

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Ralph & Orn - New York, NY

Sixteen days, four countries, eight flights, and six hotels without a hitch.

Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand

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