Upon arrival to Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport you will be welcomed by your guide holding a sign with your name on it. He will escort you to your hotel (approx. 1-hour drive). Check in time is after 2 PM.

Hop on a vintage Vespa and dive into the heart of Hanoi on an adventurous ride through hidden alleyways, historic landmarks, lakeside roads, and lesser-known corners that reveal the city’s vibrant past and present. You will be picked up from your hotel and ride through Hanoi’s narrow streets. The journey begins in the French Quarter with a stop at the elegant Hanoi Opera House, where your guide introduces French colonial architecture and shares stories of Vietnam’s 20th-century history. Next, you’ll pass by the famous railway tracks to observe daily life unfolding just centimeters from the passing trains, offering a fascinating glimpse into how locals live and work in this unique setting.

After a short ride toward the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, pause at a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the Presidential Palace, Parliament House, and other government buildings, while your guide explains how Hanoi has evolved over time. Ride past the Botanical Garden and through quiet alleyways lined with narrow houses before reaching Huu Tiep Lake, home to the remains of a B-52 bomber shot down during the 1972 bombing raids—an evocative reminder of the city’s wartime past.

The Vespa ride continues to West Lake, Hanoi’s largest lake, where you’ll enjoy scenic views, lakeside villas, and a look at the city’s more affluent residential areas. Travel along Thanh Nien Street and stop at Truc Bach Lake to visit the John McCain Monument, learning about the historical event connected to this site. Ride around West Lake with several stops for panoramic views before visiting Phu Tay Ho Temple, one of Hanoi’s most important spiritual landmarks.

Continue along the lakeside past seasonal flower farms—lotus fields in summer and colorful blossoms in winter—before stopping to see the Twin Dragon sculptures, built in 2010 as a modern symbol of Hanoi. Next, visit Van Nien Pagoda, one of the city’s oldest pagodas, founded in 1010 by King Ly Cong Uan, where your guide shares its history and legends. After an active morning, relax with a cup of Vietnamese coffee, including the chance to try Hanoi’s famous egg coffee.

For the final highlight, ride out to the historic Long Bien Bridge, a century-old structure spanning the Red River and connecting Hoan Kiem and Long Bien districts, with views of the floating communities below. The tour concludes with a delicious Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant, after which your Vespa team will take you back to your hotel.

Note: If you take this tour in the PM, you will have lunch before starting the sightseeing

Hanoi has a vibrant local nightlife scene. As daytime temperatures drop, locals and travelers alike take to the shores of Hoan Kiem Lake for a relaxing evening. Travel through the heart of Hanoi with a 30 minute cyclo ride around the lake. A cyclo is a bicycle cab with a roof, pedaled by a driver who sits behind you, allowing you to immerse yourself in an old atmosphere of an area that perfectly captures the timelessness and nostalgia of Vietnam. Leaving the lakeside area, the cyclo continued to weave through the crowded streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter. We will finish at the well known Bia Hoi Ta Hien where you will taste local beer and some local snack (peanut, frit chips, Vietnamese pork sausage) while our guide introduces you about Vietnamese cuisine and enjoy the dynamic nightlife of Hanoi, ending the day as a local Hanoian before getting back to hotel.

Meal: Lunch, light dinner with beer and local snacks/ finger foods

Overnight at hotel

After breakfast at hotel, we depart to Binh Lieu, a remote mountain district in Quang Ninh Province, a truly hidden gem known for its rolling hills, misty peaks, and winding border trails along the Vietnam–China frontier. Home to diverse ethnic communities, the area offers a raw and authentic highland experience, with scenic rice terraces, traditional villages, and unspoiled natural beauty ideal for adventure and cultural discovery.

Arrive at Song Mooc village in Binh Lieu around 2:00 PM.

Start your adventure with a hike through the breathtaking terraced rice fields of Song Mooc village (1.5km – 1 hour – physical level: 2/5). As you hike along winding village paths and trails through terraced fields, enjoy panoramic views of majestic mountain peaks rising near and far, and the valley below, where terraced fields, scattered houses, and patches of jungle create a mesmerizing patchwork of colors. 

Along the way, you’ll have the chance to meet local villagers and catch a glimpse of daily life. Stop for a friendly chat or watch as they go about their daily routines from farming and weaving to tending livestock. These warm encounters and friendly moments offer meaningful insight into the community’s rich traditions and way of life, passed down through generations.

Continue your adventure with a scenic trek into the enchanting cinnamon and star anise forests (approx. 3 km – 2 hours – physical level: 2.5/5). Hike along peaceful forest trails, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature and the refreshing scent of cinnamon and star anise leaves. Enjoy sweeping views of mountains and villages nestled among spectacular terraced fields on the hillsides.

Arrive in Khe Tien village in the late afternoon where you'll check in to your stay at a special rammed earth house, a cozy and unique home made from natural materials and take a well-earned break. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner featuring the authentic flavors of Bình Liêu, accompanied by some special homemade rice whiskey.

Then, spend some time chatting with the locals by the fire and, if you wish, enjoy an optional traditional singing performance. 

Overnight in your comfort room in a unique rammed earth house.  

Notes: The second part of the trek from Song Mooc to Khe Tien (approx. 3 km, moderate difficulty: 2.5–3/5) can be adjusted or skipped based on your physical comfort, timing, or personal preference. In this case, you may choose to add more trek and spend extra time exploring around Song Mooc village, which is easier and suitable for all fitness levels.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Local homestay

After breakfast, lace up your trekking shoes for the next leg of your adventure – an adventurous trek through the ancient forest to Khe Tien Waterfalls (approx. 3 km – 2.5 hours – physical level: 3/5). 

This part of the trek is a true nature immersion experience, taking you along narrow trails that wind through vibrant ancient trees and dense bamboo forests where sunlight filters softly through the thick canopy.

Along the way you'll discover a rich variety of native flora and encounter the hidden gems of the jungle - Khe Tien Waterfalls 1, 2, and 3 - nestled deep within the mountains. Each cascade flows in a white torrent down mossy rocks, blending beautifully with the lush greenery of the forest. The sound of rushing water echoes through the valley, creating a magical and unforgettable atmosphere. You’ll also have the chance to take a refreshing dip in the cool, clear pools at the base of each waterfall - a perfect way to relax and reconnect with nature.

Enjoy a picnic lunch by the waterfall before continuing your hike to the mountain summit, where sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and valleys await. From the top, trek along buffalo trails through lush jungle and brush, making your way back to your accommodation.

(Approx. 4 km – 2.5 hours – Physical level: 3/5)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Local homestay

Get a true taste of village life by joining locals in their daily farming activities. Depending on the season, you might take part in tending lush vegetable gardens, helping with rice planting, weeding, or harvesting in the terraced fields. In the right season, you can also join in collecting fragrant star anise and cinnamon, or assist with caring for these aromatic trees in surrounding plantations.

Year-round, you can enjoy foraging for wild herbs, bamboo shoots, mushrooms, or medicinal plants alongside villagers who know the forest paths like the back of their hand. This hands-on experience offers not only a deeper connection to nature, but also a unique window into the traditional knowledge and rhythms of rural life passed down through generations. 

After lunch, continue your journey to Ha Long bay. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and free at leisure.

Meal: Breakfast, lunch

Overnight at hotel

In the morning transfer to the pier, board a non-private cruise for a 7-hour cruise to explore of the legendary Halong Bay/ Lan Ha Bay/ Bai Tu Long Bay (depends on the available boat), admiring the unique and spectacular beauty of this enchanting world of thousands of islets. These stunning limestone karst formations rise impressively from the sea. Have lunch on boat. In the afternoon, depending on the boat, you may visit a cave and explore the bay by kayak.

Disembark the boat in the late afternoon, meet your driver at the pier and get a road transfer to Hanoi.

Information: Approximately 200km / ~3 hours drive

Meals: Breakfast, lunch

Overnight at hotel

Depart Hanoi in the morning with your guide for a scenic drive south to Ninh Binh, often called “Ha Long Bay on land” for its dramatic limestone landscapes and peaceful rural setting. Upon arrival, begin your exploration at Van Long Nature Reserve, the largest wetland reserve in northern Vietnam.

Board a traditional sampan for a tranquil boat trip through Van Long, gliding across mirror-like waters surrounded by towering karst cliffs. As you drift through the reserve, keep an eye out for rare wildlife such as the endangered Delacour’s langur and various bird species, while enjoying the serene beauty of this unspoiled landscape.

After the boat trip, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant featuring Ninh Binh specialties before setting off on a cycling adventure through the countryside. Pedal along quiet village roads, passing rice paddies, lotus ponds, limestone formations, and traditional homes. Stop along the way to interact with locals, gain insight into daily rural life and soak in the region’s peaceful atmosphere.

In the afternoon, return to your vehicle and drive back to Hanoi.

Meal: Breakfast, lunch

Overnight at hotel

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Dong Hoi. 

Upon arrival, meet your guide at your hotel and transfer to Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park, home to one of the world’s most spectacular cave systems. Upon arrival at the river pier, board a traditional dragon boat for a scenic cruise along the Son River, surrounded by lush jungle and limestone mountains.

Enter Phong Nha Cave by boat and glide into its vast underground river, where impressive stalactites and stalagmites shimmer under soft lighting. The calm boat journey and cool cave atmosphere create a relaxing yet fascinating experience.

After emerging from the cave, return by boat to the pier and transfer back to your hotel. The tour concludes with free time to relax or continue exploring Phong Nha at your own pace.

Meal: Breakfast 

Overnight at hotel 

Info: Approximately 50km / 2-hour drive

The journey begins at 8:00 AM when our guide picks you up from your accommodation in Phong Nha. The guide will take you to the meeting point, provide necessary equipment, go over the itinerary, and have you sign the Release Form. Afterward, the van will take you to the trekking starting point.

Here, you will begin trekking and climbing to reach the entrance of Elephant Cave, where you'll feel the cool air and see the lush vegetation inside the cave. Winding through collapsed rock layers and sparkling stalactites of various shapes, you'll also hear fascinating insights from the guide, from the cave's formation process to historical stories about Elephant Cave serving as a base for Vietnamese soldiers during the American War. After exploring Elephant Cave and taking photos, you will exit through the front entrance and have lunch there.

After lunch, you will continue trekking to Ma Da Lake, which is also the overnight camping spot for this journey. Ma Da Lake is a crystal-clear lake with a stunning emerald-green color. Here you can swim freely, take photos, or take on the challenge of jumping into the lake from 5-meter and 10-meter high cliffs beside the lake. After enjoying the cool water, a hot and delicious dinner will immediately "warm up" your body with Quang Binh specialties. The evening is also a time for the group to sit together, chat, play cards, or Jenga for entertainment and rest after a long day.

Meal: Breakfast, lunch, dinner 

Overnight at the camp

Note: This is a join-in tour, minimum 2 participants are required 

Hiking distance: Approximately 8km, level: Easy to moderate 

You will enjoy breakfast amidst the fresh air and the sounds of the majestic Ke Bang forest, then trek to Tra Ang water cave.

Upon arrival at the campsite, the safety assistant will help you put on life jackets, helmets with headlamps to start exploring the cave. This is also a very unique experience and the highlight of the end of the tour. The team of guides and safety assistants will closely follow, guide, and support the group throughout this time.

After exploring the 600 meters of Tra Ang Cave, you will swim back out, continue trekking on the trail to Road 20 Quyet Thang. Here you will enjoy cold drinks ordered in advance, then board the vehicle and return to your hotel in Phong Nha.

Check in your hotel and relax.

Meal: Breakfast, lunch 

Overnight at hotel

Morning, leave Phong Nha and get a scenic drive to Hue. 

Arrive in Hue around noon. Check in hotel (if room is available. The official check-in time is after 14h).

In the afternoon, board a dragon boat and cruise along the Perfume River to the countryside east of Hue, enjoying peaceful views of Hen Island, Bai Dau Market, Bao Vinh Ancient Town, Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village, and Sinh Village. Once an important seaport in the 17th century, Bao Vinh today features restored heritage houses supported by international conservation efforts.

Continue by bicycle to Sinh Village, located about 9 km from Hue and renowned for its centuries-old folk painting tradition. Visit the home of local artisan Nguyen Huu Phuoc, who introduces this unique art form and guides you in creating your own folk painting. Cycling through the village, observe daily rural life, vegetable gardens, rice fields, and traditional Hue architecture.

Next, visit Thanh Tien Village to explore its famous paper flower craft. Learn about traditional designs and try your hand at making a lotus flower under the guidance of a local artisan. Continue to Tien Non Village, a central flower-growing area, where you can join locals in tending flowers and vegetables.

Conclude the experience with dinner on the dragon boat or at a local home, before returning to your hotel in the evening.

Meal: Breakfast, dinner 

Overnight at hotel

In the morning, hop on a bike and cycle to the Imperial Citadel - Vietnam’s former imperial capital and recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site. Afterward, enjoy a bike ride along the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda and the community of garden-houses in Phu Mong. Continue cycling to Thuy Xuan incense-making village. The craft of making incense in Thuy Xuan dates back to 200 years ago during the Nguyen Dynasty. In the past, the village supplied incense to the royal court. You can explore every step of the incense making process, from selecting materials for incense powder and bamboo sticks, to processing the materials and rolling the incense paste around sticks. Next, we continue to ride to Tu Duc Imperial tomb, a tranquil royal retreat of lakes, pavilions, and pine forests, reflecting the poetic and contemplative spirit of the Nguyen emperor. On the way back to your hotel, stop by the mysterious, forgotten cemetery dedicated to the eunuchs of Nguyen Dynasty, also the only one in Vietnam. This special place is located on a secluded pine hill in the 19th century Tu Hieu pagoda where Thich Nhat Hanh – the father of mindfulness and one of the most influential spiritual leaders of our times, just after Dalai Lama, spent his remaining days at his "root temple”, awaiting the end of this life. 

Meal: Breakfast 

Overnight at hotel

After breakfast, leave Hue and begin the scenic 3-hour drive through the scenic Hải Vân Pass to Hoi An. Arrive in Hoi An around noon. 

While waiting for hotel check-in, enjoy a local lunch featuring some of the most popular street foods: Hoi An noodles (Cao Lau), white rose dumplings and the most well-known sandwich (Banh Mi Hoi An) all around the world. Don’t forget to taste the selected Nước Mót (Mot Drink), a famous, refreshing herbal tea made from traditional ingredients like lemongrass, ginger, chrysanthemum, and honey, known for its sweet, cooling flavor and cultural significance as a must-try local specialty. 

After lunch, set off on a half-day adventure through the hidden corners of the ancient town with your local guide. Wander beyond the main streets into a maze of narrow lanes, historic merchant houses, colorful communal halls, and timeworn traditional homes, pausing at the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge before venturing into charming backstreets where lesser-known gems await discovery.

Slip down a quiet alley to reach a traditional family home where a unique form of martial arts healing has been passed down through generations. This rare practice blends Qigong, Tai Chi, and traditional Vietnamese Kungfu, creating a powerful mind–body discipline. Under the guidance of the master, try a few basic movements and experience this living heritage firsthand.

Wrap up the journey at a cozy local home, sampling a traditional dessert and reflecting on the day’s discoveries before returning to your hotel.

Check in hotel and free at leisure.

Meal: Breakfast, lunch (with street food)

Overnight at hotel

Today, experience a kayak and cycling tour to explore less visited areas of Hoi An and its villages.

Kayaking in Hoi An offers a unique glimpse into the city’s soul, allowing you to navigate the serene Thu Bon River just as its locals have for centuries. By paddling along the river, you can immerse yourself in stunning views of the riverbanks and the charming architecture that reflects Hoian’s rich heritage.

At 8:30 am, pick up from your address in Hoi An. We’ll embark on a journey to Cam Kim Island, where you will cycle as a scenic route unfolds, with lush rice fields, local gardens and markets. Feel free to pause whenever you like to capture photos or engage with locals, our guide will be your translator. During this segment of the trip, we will visit a local family to learn about their daily life and traditional crafting techniques. We’ll then gear up for our water adventure and kayak toward the Cam Thanh coco palm forest. This area features a unique mangrove ecosystem, offering spectacular scenery. Our paddle concludes at the kayak station in Cam Thanh. Our very active morning concludes with a delicious lunch at a family-run riverside eatery.

After lunch, transfer to Da Nang international airport and take your flight back to Hanoi. Free time at the airport to wait for your international flight home. End tour.

Meal: Breakfast, lunch