5-day Journey of Discovery: Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Ha Long Bay
Overview
Discover ethnic minorities and terraced rice valleys through easy hikes in charming locations. This journey allows you to explore the beauty of both maritime and terrestrial Ha Long Bay. You'll have the opportunity to discover the local life of residents in the Red River Delta.
- Boutique Overnight Cruise: Experience a premium 1-night stay on the bay with breathtaking sunrise views.
- Active Nature Discovery: Explore the stunning landscapes up close through scenic biking and kayaking.
- Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Journey through time at the majestic temples of Vietnam’s first royal capital.
- Trang An Rowing Excursion: Glide through the UNESCO-listed "Ha Long Bay on Land" and mystical caves.
- Authentic Cultural Immersion: Connect with local life and traditions in the heart of the Red River Delta.
Itinerary Expand All
Day 1Hanoi Arrival
Upon arrival at the airport, a private vehicle will be waiting to transfer you directly to your hotel for a smooth check-in. To maximize your first day, we will tailor your activities based on your flight's arrival time, ensuring a perfect introduction to Hanoi’s charm without the rush.
Day 2 Hanoi – Ninh Binh Landscapes – Hanoi
07:00 – 07:30: Our guide will meet you at your hotel to begin a 110km journey by modern bus through the verdant northern countryside.
10:00: Arrive at the Bai Dinh Pagoda complex, the largest Buddhist complex in Southeast Asia. Nestled at the foot of Dinh Mountain, the pagoda offers exquisite views of the river valley and limestone karsts below. Highlights include the 500 Arhat statues, two massive bronze bells (weighing 27 and 36 tons), the Thousand-Arm Quan Yin statue, and the majestic Gautama Buddha statue.
12:00: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant featuring regional specialties.
13:30: Depart for Trang An Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its majestic limestone massifs. Board a traditional sampan for a gentle row down the river through mystical caves and visit sacred temples.
15:30: Visit Mua Cave and trek to the summit of Ngoa Long Mountain for a spectacular panoramic view of the Tam Coc rice valley.
17:15: Board the bus for the return journey to Hanoi.
19:30: Arrive at your hotel. Free in evening
Day 3Hanoi – Halong Bay
You will be picked up from your hotel in Hanoi and start your trip to explore the most amazing bay in the North of Vietnam. On the way, we will have a quick stop in the middle of the way to rest. departure for Halong Bay passing through the sites of Dinh Lap and Tien Yen.
Arrival in Halong around noon, then embarkation on board a splendid junk.
Lunch on board while cruising through Halong Bay toward Luon Cave and Titop Island. Enjoy authentic Vietnamese dishes with views of emerald waters and towering karst peaks.
2:30 PM – Get ready for a swim at Titop Beach. Climb to the island’s summit for panoramic views or relax on the beach, surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs.
4:00 PM – Cruise to Tunnel Cave Lagoon. Explore the hidden lagoon by traditional rowing boat (shared) or by kayak (2 people per kayak).
5:30–6:00 PM – Return to the boat. Enjoy a sunset party and take part in a floating sticky rice cake cooking demo while soaking in the stunning landscape.
7:30 PM – Dinner on board. Afterward, try night squid fishing.
Overnight stay on board in a quiet anchorage.
Day 4Halong Bay - Free For Shopping In Hanoi
Start your day with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck at sunrise.
After a light breakfast, visit a Pearl Farm or a secluded lagoon for a kayaking excursion to get up close to the emerald waters.
Return to the boat to pack and check out. While the cruise heads back to the harbor, enjoy a well-deserved brunch (or early lunch).
Disembark at the marina and board your luxury transfer back to Hanoi.
Arriving at your hotel, check in and free at the rest of the day.
Day 5Hanoi Departure
Breakfast at hotel then you are free on relax until time driver pick up and send to airport for flight departure.
End of services. Wishing you a pleasant journey and happy memories from your trip.
Prices and Accommodation
How to book?
-
Enter your travel date, the number of adults, and the language
-
Click "Book this tour" for price, then "Book now" to reserve.
-
"Pricing is for up to 6 adults. For larger groups, please request a customized offer in your 'special requests'
Included
- Transport: Choice of shared shuttle or Private vehicle (Your group ONLY).
- Guide: Professional English-speaking guide.
- Meals: Daily Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (B, L, D) as per program.
- Activities: Biking, kayaking, and Trang An rowing boat (4 persons/sampan).
- All Fees: All entrance tickets, sightseeing fees, and administrative costs.
- Daily Water: 1 liter of bottled water per person.
Excluded
- Personal travel insurance
- Bank fees
- Drinks, phone, personal expenses, and anything not clearly mentioned in the "This price includes" section
- Tips
Useful Information
What to Pack: Light clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and a light jacket for winter (Dec–Feb).
Dress Code: Modest attire (shoulders and knees covered) is required for temples and pagodas.
Dietary Needs: Please notify us in advance of any food allergies or special diets (e.g., Vegan).
Connectivity: Wi-Fi is available in hotels and cruises (signal may vary while at sea).
Currency: VND is official; carry some cash for small local purchases and tips.
Your passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date.
Similar Tours
Unmissable Highlights of Hanoi in One Day
Hanoi
Day Tours
Price
$100/pax
- Traditional Architecture at the Temple of Literature and Pagodas
- Cultural Values at the Museum of Ethnology/Women's Museum
- Local Life
Street Food Tour in Hanoi, a Unique Culinary Experience
Hanoi
Day Tours
Price
$100/pax
- Discover authentic Vietnamese street cuisine and savor various well-known dishes in Hanoi.
- Explore the Old Quarter of Hanoi and its bustling and mysterious atmosphere—unique tube houses, a visit through the narrow alleys of Hanoi hiding many secrets, temples, open-air markets, street food.
- An authentic experience close to the lifestyle of the Old Quarter residents.
- Temple of the Mother Goddess, the ancient O Quan Chuong Gate, local markets of Dong Xuan and Thanh Ha.