Hanoi, Halong Bay, Mai Chau 4 Days

Morning

Around 08:00 - 08:30, our driver will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi and then go on a 2.5-hour shuttle bus ride to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This natural wonder boasts over 1,600 limestone islands and islets emerging from emerald waters. 

After arriving at the cruise port, meet the captain and the crew briefing about the safety instructions and refresh with a welcome drink.

Your boarding time is at around 12:00, and lunch with fresh seafood will be served as the boat cruises toward the bay. You can savor your dishes while enjoying the spectacular view of the charming islets with their distinctive formations that are only found in Halong Bay.

Afternoon

It's time to unwind and rest after lunch to prepare for the afternoon excursion in Halong Bay.

The excursion begins with a visit to a cave/ beach of Halong, depending on each cruise itinerary, such as swimming and sunbathing in the pristine Trinh Nu beach, exploring Halong Bay caves, etc.

Return to the boat at 17:00 - 17:30 to relax before having dinner. 

After dinner, take part in various onboard activities such as squid fishing, board games, relaxing by the bar, movie night, and so on.

Return to your cabin and have an overnight stay on the cruise.

NOTE: Our tour guide will not accompany you on the cruises and will be substituted by English-fluent crew members. Each cruise will have a different itinerary.

Morning

This morning you can join a refreshing Tai Chi session to energize you for the day ahead (some cruises may offer yoga or Vovinam classes - please check with our consultants), or just simply wake up early and witness the stunning sunrise over the bay. 

Around 07:00, enjoy a light breakfast before the cruise continues its journey across the tranquil green waters to the last destination. Along the way, take in the stunning vistas of the Bay with dramatic limestone.

We will return to the cruise and check out the cabin at 10:00. Brunch is served on the 90-minute transfer back to the harbor.

Upon arrival at the port, the boat crew will bid you farewell. Our shuttle bus will then be ready to transport you back to your hotel in Hanoi. 

Afternoon

After arriving in Hanoi between 15:00 and 15:30, spend your free time resting or exploring the city on your own. If you need any suggestions on what to do in Hanoi, feel free to contact our consultant.

NOTE: Depending on the cruise itinerary, some activities may occur before brunch is served.

Morning

Kindly note that this entire morning is for a 4-hour car transfer. 

07:30 - 08:00: Our driver will pick you up at your hotel in Hanoi by shuttle bus and transfer you to Mai Chau - a beautiful valley home to several hill tribes of the North, like the Dzao, Muong, and Thai. There will be a short break along the way.

You will arrive in Mai Chau around noon. Check in to your room, take a short rest, and enjoy lunch to gain energy for the exciting afternoon. 

Afternoon 

We'll go on a gentle bicycle tour around 13:00-14:00 with a local guide through Mai Chau's picturesque ethnic villages and witness the local life here, including Na Thia, Chieng Sai, Cha Long, Tong Dau, and Ta Van.

After the cycling, all guests return to the ecolodge and have a tasty dinner. While tasting the famous cuisine in Mai Chau, you can also enjoy a traditional dance show and taste Ruou Can, a popular local rice liquor in this area.

NOTE: The dance show is only applicable to traveler groups of more than 5.

Morning

Have breakfast at the Ecolodge before having a journey to the most well-known villages in Mai Chau.

08:00: Take a walking trip (about 2.5 - 3 hours) with a local ethnic tour guide to more isolated rural villages like Na Meo, Na Mo, and Xam Pa to learn more about their culture and customs.

Afternoon

Return to the homestay and enjoy your lunch around noon. You will have some free time relaxing and shopping before checking out. 

After that, get on the van/ bus to drive back to Hanoi and arrive at your hotel around 18:30 - 19:15. 

End the North Vietnam adventure with full of unforgettable memories. We hope to see you on the next journey!