Hanoi - Halong - Sapa - Ninh Binh Tour (8D7N)
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Trip length: 8 days | Trip code: HLVNT04
Trip Style: Comfort | Physical Rating: 3/5 | Trip Price: Upon request
Places visited: Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ninh Binh
BRIEF ITINERARY
Day 01: Hanoi – Free day at leisure
Day 02: Hanoi – Ha Long Bay – Night on board (joined tour)
Day 03: Halong Bay – Hanoi (joined tour)
Day 04: Hanoi highlights sightseeing – Night train to Sapa
Day 05: Lao Cai arrival – Transfer to Sapa – Villages walking (Cat Cat – Sin Chai)
Day 06: Sapa – Muong Hoa River Valley trekking
Day 07: Sapa – Free day at leisure – Joined limousine VIP van to Hanoi
Day 08: Hanoi – Ninh Binh Kasrts Landscapes – Departure
TRIP MAP
TRIP DETAILS
Oct 2023
We spent 3 weeks in 3 different countries and our guides were knowledgeable and had expert knowledgeof our surroundings
Oct 2023
Mya, Anne and all the staff of Travel Authentic Asia exceeded our expectations in our family trip to Thailand and Vietnam.
Dec 2022
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Nov 2023
Trang and her team at Travel Authentic Asia helped us make our dream a reality. Our group of 6adults contacted Travel Authentic Asia in March with a rough idea of what we wanted to do and see and thanks to their expertise and local knowledge
Halong Bay Travel Guides
Day 01: Hanoi – Free day at leisure
This day at your own pace, whether you choose to relax or explore the vibrant city of Hanoi independently.
Stay overnight at your hotel in Hanoi.
Inclusions: Hotel in Hanoi
Day 02: Hanoi – Ha Long Bay – Night on board (joined tour)
After breakfast at the hotel, at 8:00 AM, travel to Bai Tu Long Bay in Halong City. Upon reaching the Swan office around 12:00, take a brief moment to relax before boarding the Swan cruise.
At 12: 00 PM, get on board and enjoy the welcoming drink while listening to the safety brief and check-in cabin. Delight in a scrumptious Vietnamese lunch as the cruise leisurely navigates towards the heart of Bai Tu Long Bay.
At 15:00, explore the enchanting Cap La Island, a picturesque area in Bai Tu Long Bay. Take part in kayaking amidst the karst formations, take a refreshing swim, and simply unwind in the breathtaking natural surroundings.
Return to the boat at 17:30 to enjoy the Sunset Time, featuring complimentary tea and fresh fruits during this "Happy Hour" as the cruise sails towards the overnight anchorage. A sumptuous set dinner is served onboard at 19:00.
Take advantage of free time at 20:30 to relax on the sundeck, listen to music, or try your hand at squid fishing. If you're inclined to join the karaoke activity, please approach our tour guide for assistance.
Overnight on board, surrounded by the captivating beauty of Bai Tu Long Bay.
Note that the cruise itinerary may vary based on tide conditions, the specific boat, and the assigned route.
Inclusions: Shared van, Shared cruise (guide on board only), Cruising, kayaking, Breakfast at the hotel, Lunch & Dinner on board, Shared cruise - Private en suit room on board
Day 03: Ha Long Bay – Hanoi (joined tour)
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At 06:30, join a refreshing Tai Chi session.
By 07:00, have a breakfast spread featuring both Western and traditional Vietnamese delights, accompanied by tea and coffee.
At 08:00, visit Thien Canh Son cave, and learn the historical tales of Ha Long Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay, and this naturally crafted cave.
Return to your boat at 09:30 via tender, initiating the packing process. Ensure all personal belongings are cleared from your cabin, leaving heavier luggage outside (staff will directly transfer it to the pier). Engage in a delightful cooking demonstration at 10:30 offering you a hands-on experience in creating Vietnamese cuisine. A traditional Vietnamese lunch is served at 11:00.
At 12:00, disembark at Hon Gai pier, bidding farewell to the mesmerizing Halong Bay, and commence your return journey to Hanoi.
Spend the night in a hotel in Hanoi.
Inclusions: Shared van, Shared cruise (guide on board only), Cruising, cave visiting, cooking demonstration, Breakfast and Lunch/Brunch on board, Hotel in Hanoi
Day 04: Hanoi sightseeing highlights – Night train to Sapa
Breakfast at the hotel. At 8:30 AM, embark on a day tour exploring the notable sights of Hanoi. Highlights include the memorial complex dedicated to Ho Chi Minh, the Presidential Palace, Uncle Ho's house on stilts, the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, and the Temple of Literature - Vietnam's first university established in 1076.
In the afternoon, visit the captivating Ethnology Museum showcasing unique Vietnamese art depicting rural life. Explore the Hoan Kiem Lake, home to Ngoc Son Temple and a legendary turtle reserve. Wander through Hanoi's Old Quarter, renowned as the '36 streets,' offering abundant photo opportunities.
After dinner (at your own expense), be ready for pick-up at 8:30 PM to transfer to the train station for your night train journey to Sapa.
Overnight on the train, as you anticipate the next leg of your adventure in Sapa.
Inclusions: Private van & driver, Overnight train, Hanoi city tour, Breakfast
Day 05: Lao Cai arrival – Transfer to Sapa – Villages walking (Cat Cat – Sin Chai)
Arrive at Lao Cai at 6:00 AM and get on a one-hour bus journey uphill to the charming Sa Pa town nestled in the midst of the Hoang Lien Mountain Range. This former French hill station is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, terraced fields, and the rich culture of the hill tribes.
Savor breakfast at a local restaurant before heading to the hillsides of Sapa to explore Cat Cat Village in a nearby valley. Take the opportunity to visit a local home, marvel at the Cat Cat waterfall, enjoy a traditional music performance by local youth, and hike around for a village sightseeing experience. Continue your exploration with a visit to Sin Chai village, another Hmong village situated at the base of Fansipan Mountain.
Return to Sapa town, check into your hotel, and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, exploring the enchanting town of Sapa. Overnight at your hotel in Sapa.
As an optional activity, you may consider a cable car ride to Fansipan Mountain (entrance fee at your own cost) for a truly panoramic experience.
Inclusions: Private car & driver in Sapa, Sapa trekking and sightseeing, Breakfast, Hotel in Sapa
Day 06: Sapa – Muong Hoa River Valley trekking
Breakfast at your hotel, at 8:30 AM, and gather at the trekking starting point. Begin your trek through the picturesque Muong Hoa River valley, exploring Lao Chai village and Ta Van village, home to the Dzay people. Traverse the dirt trail from Ta Van village to Giang Ta Chai village of the Dzao community, passing bamboo forests and jungle, and enjoy stunning landscapes. Visit the Rattan bridge and a Red Dzao family, and then get picked up by car for the transfer back to Sapa town.
(You have the option to choose an easy or challenging trek based on your fitness level)
Spend the night at your hotel in Sapa, reflecting on the day's trekking adventures.
Inclusions: Private car & driver in Sapa, Sapa trekking, Breakfast, Hotel in Sapa
Day 07: Sapa – Free day at leisure – Joined limousine VIP van to Hanoi
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel. Take advantage of your free time to explore the charming town of Sapa, indulge in a relaxing foot massage, or engage in some shopping.
Between 3:00 PM and 3:30 PM, prepare for pick-up at your hotel, as you embark on a transfer via a joined limousine VIP van back to Hanoi.
By 9:00 PM to 9:30 PM, you'll reach Hanoi and proceed with hotel check-in.
Enjoy a restful overnight stay at your hotel in Hanoi.
Inclusions: Joined limousine VIP van from Sapa to Hanoi, Breakfast, Hotel in Hanoi
Day 08: Hanoi – Ninh Binh Karst Landscapes - Departure
At 8:30 AM, start a 2.5-hour journey from your Hanoi hotel, this route through the picturesque Red River Delta countryside to Ninh Binh province, renowned for its diverse tourist attractions.
Upon reaching Hoa Lu, explore two temples dedicated to Vietnamese Kings who ruled in the 10th century.
Subsequently, traverse scenic landscapes and traditional villages to Tam Coc. At 2:00 PM, board the sampan boats (shared by two people) at Tam Coc dock for a leisurely river journey amidst villages, mountains, and verdant rice fields. Glide through three caves - Hang Ca (First cave), Hang Hai (Second cave), and Hang Ba (Third cave) and admire the limestone mountains, revealing why this area is often dubbed "Halong Bay on land."
Return to Hanoi and prepare for a transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
Wishing you a safe and pleasant flight. Stay connected, and until we meet again!
Inclusions: Private van & driver, Private boat, Private airport transfer, Ninh Binh Karst Landscapes, Breakfast
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Halong Bay Travel FAQs
Are Halong Bay cruises worth it?
Absolutely, a Halong Bay cruise is a must for its stunning scenery, cultural immersion in floating villages, tranquil ambiance, diverse activities like kayaking, luxurious accommodations with sunrise views, magical sunsets, delectable local cuisine, and endless photographic opportunities. It's a perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation, making it a truly worthwhile experience.
What is special about Halong Bay?
Halong Bay is special for its: - Limestone Karsts: Thousands of towering formations create a picturesque seascape. - Emerald Waters: The bay's waters boast a mesmerizing emerald-green color. - Cave Systems: Numerous caves with stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations. Floating Villages: Explore traditional fishing villages on the water. - UNESCO World Heritage Site: Recognized for its global cultural and natural significance. - Unique Flora and Fauna: Diverse marine life and ecosystems contribute to its ecological importance. Scenic Sunrises and Sunsets: Spectacular views during both sunrise and sunset. - Cruise Experiences: Unique boat journeys offer diverse activities and exploration. - Cultural Experiences: Interact with local communities and witness traditional performances. In essence, Halong Bay's beauty, cultural richness, and diverse activities make it a truly special destination.
How long does it take to see Halong Bay?
Typically, individuals often find it necessary to spend around 2 to 3 days in Halong Bay, either aboard a cruise or in a land-based hotel.
What is the best month to visit Halong Bay?
If your primary consideration is weather, then the time frames of September to November and March to May stand out as optimal for a Halong Bay excursion. During these periods, the dry climate and agreeable temperatures create an ideal environment, allowing you to fully partake in on-board activities and ensuring that sightseeing is as flawless as possible.
How long is the journey from Hanoi to Halong Bay?
The journey from Hanoi to Halong Bay typically takes about 3 to 4 hours by road, depending on the mode of transportation and traffic conditions. Many tours and transportation services offer comfortable buses or private cars for the journey, making it a convenient and scenic route. The distance between Hanoi and Halong Bay is approximately 170 kilometers (105 miles), and the travel time may vary based on the specific starting and ending points within the two locations.
