Sapa valley at sunset in Vietnam

North Vietnam Custom Tour: Hanoi, Mai Chau, Sapa & Ha Long Bay

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Customizable Itinerary

This is a sample itinerary to inspire a personalized trip designed with your travel specialist

Countries Visited

Vietnam

Places Visited

Hanoi, Mai Chau, Sapa, Ha Long Bay

Suggested Duration

9 Days

Culture abounds on this custom tailored tour through North Vietnam. The hillsides are textured with unparalleled paddy fields creating terraces up the foothills. Ethnic tribes wear colorful textiles displaying intricate patterns. From the incredible towering karsts that decorate Ha Long Bay to the unique traditions of minority tribes within the mountains near the Chinese border, your time through the capital city and the countryside will show you the traditions of northern Vietnam within this...

Customizable Itinerary

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Trip Highlights

  • Experience the variety of ethnic minority cultures within the northern hills of around Sapa
  • Discover the tremendous tradition situated within the tranquil heart of Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam
  • Cruise through the sensational scenery of Ha Long Bay filled with emerald water and limestone karsts
  • Adventure deep into the spectacular caves within the islands along Ha Long Bay
  • Witness the idyllic valley of Mai Chau surrounded by lush paddy fields
  • Visit traditional stilt houses in the countryside overlain with palm leaf roofs and bamboo-slat floors
  • Enjoy the lively morning market of Sapa where villagers from around the mountains showcase handmade goods and quality ingredients

Detailed Description

Stroll through villages and wander through a unique blend of tradition and modernity on this 11-day tour meant to show you the true culture of North Vietnam. Whether you’re an amateur anthropologist or a traditions enthusiast, an avid explorer or just looking for a rare travel experience, you will spend your days within the unparalleled scenery and sensational cultures that are set throughout the countryside. From marvelous islands to inspiring villages, traditional markets to modest temples, your journey through Vietnam will be sure to show you the depths of the north.

Your journey begins when you step onto your flight that is ready to whisk you away to the wonders of Vietnam. After you cross the International Dateline you will arrive in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam and a fantastic city with its heart in the countryside. A guided tour will take you through the ancient history of the city that continues to thrive today, from the market in the Old Quarter to the oldest university in the country. The following day you will explore Mai Chau, a slice of countryside surrounded by mountains and occupied by many White Thai villages. In the evening you will board a night train that will take you northbound to the mountain city of Sapa, located near the Chinese border.

The next two days will be spent adventuring through the amazing landscape filled with undulating mountains, terraced paddy fields, and the vibrant culture of the ethnic minority tribes of the area. Your night train back to Hanoi will take you from the city to Ha Long Bay for your overnight cruise. The islands and karsts sit along emerald water allowing you to swim, sunbathe, and even venture into the cave systems that burrow deep within the limestone islands. You will have one last evening in Hanoi before you’re private transfer to the airport where you will make your journey home.

To see other tour options, visit the page for Vietnam vacations.  Also, be sure to read the reviews for travel agents for Vietnam.

Starting Price

$2,700 per person (excluding international flights)

Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.

What's Included

  • Accommodations
  • In-country transportation
  • Some or all activities and tours
  • Expert trip planning
  • 24x7 support during your trip

Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

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4.84 stars based on 587 reviews.

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