North Vietnam Tour 4 days: Ninh Binh & Sapa

7:30 AM: Start with a 2.5-hour drive from Hanoi through the fertile Red River Delta. Upon arrival at Tam Coc boat operation place in Ninh Binh, board a traditional sampan boat for a 2-hour journey on a small river, weaving through 3 tunnel-like caves. This place is often referred to as “Inland Ha Long Bay” for its dramatic karst formations.

As you glide through this captivating landscape, soak in the beauty of the towering limestone mountains. Afterward, take a leisurely walk amidst the limestone formations to reach Thai Vi Temple, dedicated to a revered Vietnamese dynasty, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history. Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant.

The afternoon unfolds with a 1.5-hour bicycle ride along quiet backroads with the picturesque landscapes of towering karst formations rising from tranquil ponds, emerald rice paddies, and charming rural villages. Take as many photo breaks as you wish to capture these postcard-perfect moments.

Your journey concludes with a visit to Bich Dong Pagoda, a significant religious site for local residents. By 4:00 PM, check in to your hotel and unwind before having dinner.

Accommodation: At a hotel in Ninh Binh

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Have breakfast at your accommodation.

At 8:00 AM, we will transfer you to Hang Mua, where you will conquer a challenging hike (approximately 500 steps) to the mountain summit. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views overlooking the dramatic rocky mountains and fertile valleys.

Your journey continues with a trek along rural paths, weaving through lush rice fields and skirting the edges of sheer cliffs. After all this exploration, have lunch at a local restaurant. 

In the afternoon, take a short final trek to meet your private vehicle. Then, drive back to Hanoi and arrive at your Hanoi hotel between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM, where you can check in and enjoy the rest of your evening. 

Accommodation: At a hotel in Hanoi

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

On your third day, meet your driver and guide at 7:00 AM for a morning drive (approximately 5 hours) to the enchanting mountain town of Sapa. Upon arrival around noon, savor a delicious Vietnamese set menu lunch at a local restaurant. 

The afternoon kicks off with a short transfer to a designated trekking point situated on the slopes leading down to Y Linh Ho village, nestled within Muong Hoa Valley - renowned as Sapa's most beautiful valley. Here, embark on a picturesque downhill trek, surrounded by stunning mountain views and cascading rice terraces cultivated by the H'mong ethnic minority. 

The trek itself offers a mix of paved and unpaved sections, with occasional ups and downs along the path. After crossing a suspension bridge, the terrain narrows slightly and becomes steeper for a short while before descending again.  

In the late afternoon, you will be picked up at Lao Chai village to return to Sapa town hotel. Overnight in Sapa.

Accommodation: At a hotel in Sapa

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Breakfast is served at your hotel. After that, around 9:00 AM, transfer to the Fansipan Cable Car station, where your journey conquering majestic Fansipan Mountain begins. The Sapa cable car holds the title of both the world's longest and highest.

You can reach the summit in just 25 minutes via this incredible cable car system. Cruise in a cabin holding up to 35 passengers, enjoying breathtaking views of Sapa, the Muong Hoa Valley, and Hoang Lien National Park as you ascend. The 6.5km cable car boasts a maximum capacity of 2,000 passengers per hour, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey. 

Once reached the peak and soaked in the panoramic vistas, the cable car will return you to the starting station. In the afternoon, drive back to Hanoi. The tour concludes upon arrival at your Hanoi hotel.

Accommodation: N/A

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch