Discover a corner of Vietnam where ancient history and stunning landscapes collide. Travel from the modern capital to the first capital city, Hoa Lu and admire ancient relics. Explore Van Long - the largest natural reserve of wetlands. It is also home to 32 stunning grottos named after their different shapes and get experience Vietnam’s local culture on this 3-day tour which goes through Mai Chau’s villages.
Upon arrival in Hanoi, be met by our car driver and be transferred to the hotel for check-in. Spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight in Hanoi.
Notes: The itinerary can be flexible base on the arrival flight schedule; some sites can be visited today to have more time at sites or adding some other sites in the next day (with small surcharge).
Enjoy a 2 hour drive to Ninh Binh province. It is a spectacular landscape of limestone karts peaks permeated with valleys, some of which are submerged, and surrounded by vertical cliffs. On arrival, hop on your bike for a leisurely 4-km cycling around the winding paved road to enjoy the peaceful Northern countryside. Along the way you might see cows or buffalos working on rice fields with farmers or relaxing under the shade. Stop at a farm where you can join in some agriculture activities such as gardening, collecting eggs, picking up grass and helping the family prepare food for their guests. Enjoy lunch in rustic yet cozy setting and in the afternoon, transfer to Van Long - the largest natural reserve of wetlands. It is also home to 32 stunning grottos named after their different shapes. In the dry season, Van Long is the wintering place of migratory birds from the North. Later sit on a small row boat and float through the picturesque scenery with spectacular mountain ranges.
Overnight in Ninh Binh (Lunch)
NOTES
Suggested time: 08:30
Duration: 6 hours
Biking distance: 4km
Grade: Medium
Take a 4.5-hour drive from Van Long to Mai Chau which offers a splendid view of valleys covered in lush vegetation and stilt houses inhabited mainly by the H’mong and White Thai ethnic groups. On arrival, get lunch at local restaurant. Then continue cycling on a 2hr tour on local bicycles through the beautiful valley of Mai Chau. Your guide will facilitate chats with local hill tribe people to learn about their daily lives including planting rice, herding buffalos and building traditional houses.
Overnight in Mai Chau (Lunch)
NOTES
Suggested time: 08:30
Duration: 4.5 hours
Biking/ trekking distance: 6km
Grade: Medium
Enjoy a free morning to unwind and take in the beautiful surroundings. There is an optional 2-hour cycle to Sam Khoe – where Thai ethnic people live. There’s a good chance to say hi or talk with local villagers along the way. Later, drive back to Hanoi for your onward flight
NOTES
Suggested time: 09:00
Duration: 2 hours
Biking/ trekking distance: 6 km
Grade: Medium
Estimated arrival time at Hanoi: 17:00
