Journey to the Land of the Blue Dragon

Welcome! Please be prepared to meet in the lobby at 5:30 P.M. to depart for your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying into Hanoi International/Noi Bai Airport (HAN).

After breakfast, start your day in Hanoi with a quick private transfer from your hotel, diving straight into the heart of the city's vibrant life. Begin with a morning coffee experience at a traditional café, tasting local favorites like ca phe sua da, or the intriguing 'egg coffee.' Next, enjoy a delicious banh mi at a street food stall, then head to the serene Ngoc Son Temple at Hoan Kiem Lake, surrounded by centuries of history. Explore the Old Quarter, where the streets are a testament to the city's rich heritage, transitioning from ancient trades to modern day hustle. Sample the essence of Vietnamese cuisine with northern specialties and wander through markets and food alleys for a deeper insight into local food practices. The adventure continues to West Lake for an interactive Pho Cuon experience, ending with a stunning sunset at Long Bien Bridge. Cap off the experience with a local draught beer in a lively bia hoi, before returning to your hotel in the evening where you will have the rest of the night to rest or explore at leisure.

• Explore Hanoi Like a Local

  This morning, you'll be picked up from the hotel for a 10-minute private to the start of a full day of exploring Hanoi. Embark on a culinary and cultural adventure in Hanoi, starting with a visit to a traditional café to sample local coffee variations such as ca phe sua da or the unique 'egg coffee.' Continue to savor a delicious banh mi from a street food stall before exploring the Ngoc Son Temple at Hoan Kiem Lake, a historical area where artisans and traders have thrived for nearly two millennia. Wander through the Old Quarter's streets, named after the goods once sold there, from silk to silver, experiencing how some have evolved while others preserve their heritage. Dive into Vietnamese food culture by sampling northern delicacies and seasonal fruits, exploring the bustling streets and quiet lanes that showcase Hanoi's ancient lifestyle. Visit Dong Xuan market for a taste of local snacks, learn about Vietnamese meal routines, and stroll up 'food alley'. Venture out to West Lake for Pho Cuon and a lesson in Vietnamese wrap 'n' roll, capture sunset views from Long Bien Bridge, and finally, immerse yourself in the local scene with a draught beer at a bia hoi spot, blending exploration and taste in a day filled with Hanoi's timeless charm and vibrant street life. In the early evening, you'll be transferred back to the hotel for the remainder of the evening free at leisure.

  07:00· 360 min· Hanoi

After starting the day with breakfast, you will be picked up for a scenic 2.5-hour transfer to Ninh Binh for a comprehensive full-day tour. Your adventure begins at the ancient capital of Hoa Lư, where you delve into the history of Vietnam's early dynasties before embarking on a leisurely 45-minute bicycle ride. This journey takes you through local villages and past Thai Vi Temple, nestled amidst breathtaking natural scenery. Following the bike tour, a short transfer takes you to a local restaurant for a traditional Vietnamese lunch. The day continues with a mesmerizing sampan boat tour through the UNESCO-listed Trang An, revealing spectacular cave systems and serene landscapes. The final highlight is a visit to Mua Cave, where climbing nearly 500 steps to the top of Lying Dragon Mountain offers unparalleled views of the surrounding countryside. Your day of exploration concludes with a transfer back to your hotel in Ninh Binh, marking the end of an unforgettable journey through some of Vietnam's most cherished natural and historical sites.

• Hoa Lu Exploration & Village Cycling

  You'll start your adventure at the Hoa Lư ancient capital in Vietnam, exploring the fascinating history of the Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasties. You'll then hop on a 45-minute bike ride through the local village, offering a glimpse into everyday life and a visit to Thai Vi Temple, known for its stunning location surrounded by majestic mountains and the flowing Ngo Dong River. The bike journey, covering 9 miles on mostly flat terrain, goes beyond the mountains to pass through villages, allowing travelers to experience the local culture up close.

  10:00· 150 min· Hao Lu
• Trang An / Tam Coc Sampan Boat Tour

  After enjoying lunch at the restaurant, you'll embark on a brief 10-minute private transfer to Tam Coc Pier. Upon arrival, a two-person sampan boat awaits to whisk you away on an enchanting journey through Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site acclaimed since 2014. This boat excursion promises an immersive exploration of the area's breathtaking tunnel cave system, leading you through the serene beauty of Tam Coc grottoes. As you glide along the river, nestled amidst vibrant rice paddies and towering karst limestone mountains, the tranquil and picturesque landscape of Trang An unfolds before you, offering a unique opportunity to experience the natural and peaceful scenery that has captivated visitors from around the globe.

  14:00· 120 min· Trang An
• Mua Cave Visit

  Following your exploration of Trang An, you'll continue your adventure with a 30-minute private transfer leading you to Mua Cave, a standout attraction not so much for the cave itself but for the stunning viewpoint atop Mua Mountain. Known locally as "dragon mountain," this peak offers panoramic views of the Ngo Dong river winding through towering mountains and the lush landscapes of Tam Coc. Here, an exhilarating challenge awaits as you embark on a climb of nearly 500 steps to reach the summit of Lying Dragon Mountain. Once you descend you’ll take a 30-minute transfer to your hotel in Ninh Binh.

  16:00· 60 min· Tom Coc
• Transfer · Hanoi → Ninh Binh

  You'll be picked up from the hotel this morning for a private transfer to Ninh Binh. Restroom breaks will be made as necessary.

  private · 150 min

After breakfast, you'll start the morning with a private transfer to a local family farm within the Van Long Nature Reserve, marking the start of a deeply immersive cultural and natural experience. Here, amidst the rhythm of rural life, you engage in traditional activities such as fishing and rice harvesting, gaining a hands-on appreciation for the local way of life. The morning's activities culminate in a communal lunch at the family's home, where a simple yet traditional Vietnamese meal bridges cultures, celebrating the day's shared experiences. The afternoon brings a tranquil exploration of the reserve's waterways aboard a two-person sampan boat. As you glide through the Bong Cave and Kem Trong, and into the Van Long flooded area, you're enveloped by the area's serene beauty and natural resilience. This leg of the journey not only draws you closer to the region's geological splendor but also offers a moment of reflection on the day's intimate connection with nature and local life before returning to your hotel.

• Ninh Binh Farm Life Experience

  After a 45-minute transfer, a local family invites you into their world. This immersive experience allows you to delve into the heart of rural life, engaging in traditional activities such as fishing and rice harvesting, offering a hands-on understanding of the local culture and daily routines. As the morning's activities wind down, you'll gather in the family home for a communal lunch, where the meal serves not just as nourishment but as a bridge between cultures, celebrating the shared efforts and the intimate glimpse into a way of life that sustains and enriches the community. This visit is more than an excursion; it's a deep dive into the essence of living closely with nature and the meaningful connections that come from truly experiencing life alongside local inhabitants.

  08:30· 180 min· Ninh Binh
• Van Long Nature Reserve Sampan Boat Ride

  Following your lunch, the next leg of your adventure begins with a unique water-bound exploration. You'll board a two-person sampan, a traditional flat-bottomed boat, perfectly designed for navigating the serene waters and narrow passageways of the region. Your journey takes you through the captivating Bong Cave and Kem Trong, each offering its own natural wonders and echoing silence that speaks volumes of the area's natural history. The journey extends into the Van Long flooded area, a waterlogged landscape where nature's resilience and adaptability are on full display. This portion of your tour not only brings you closer to the area's geological marvels but also immerses you in the tranquil beauty that defines the region's waterways. You'll be provided with life jackets, and the sampan weight limit is 396 lbs. total between 2 people. Afterwards, you will take a 45-minute transfer back to your hotel.

  14:00· 90 min· Ninh Binh

Today, you will be transferred from the hotel to the Tuan Chau International Marina to board the 2 day, 1 night HaLong Bay Cruise. As you sail towards the pristine landscapes of Lan Ha Bay and the Cat Ba Archipelago, the untouched beauty of limestone formations and secluded beaches unfolds. Aboard the cruise, you're treated to a delightful lunch, setting the tone for an afternoon of exploration and relaxation with options for kayaking or swimming in the bay's inviting waters. The evening brings a serene sunset, complemented by a Vietnamese cooking class that offers a deep dive into local culinary traditions. Dinner onboard promises more authentic flavors, followed by the unique experience of squid fishing under the starry sky, with the bar staying open for night owls. As the day winds down, the comfort of your suite awaits, anchoring the day's experiences with an overnight stay amidst the tranquil beauty of Halong Bay, encapsulating a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Please note that the activities below are all included with the Halong Bay Heritage Binh Chuan Cruise and cannot be removed. Travelers can choose to opt out of any activity at their own discretion.

• Halong Bay Heritage Binh Chuan Cruise (2 Days | 1 Night)

  Your journey begins with a hotel pickup, whisking you away to the Tuan Chau International Marina in Halong City, via the new highway. Upon arrival at No.28 of Tuan Chau International Marina, you'll be welcomed into the Heritage Cruises Lounge, where refreshments await before you board the cruise. The adventure at sea kicks off at 12:30 P.M., as you step onto the Heritage Cruises boat, greeted with a welcome drink. During this time, you'll be briefed on the cruise details, safety instructions, and check into your suite, setting the stage for an unforgettable maritime experience. Please note that the activities below are all included with the Halong Bay Heritage Cruise (2 day, 1 night) and cannot be removed. Travelers can choose to opt out of any activity at their own discretion.

  12:00· 60 min· Halong Bay
• Lan Ha Bay Hideaway Beaches

  Heritage Binh Chuan Cruises embarks on a journey through the stunning landscapes of Lan Ha Bay and the Cat Ba Archipelago, showcasing the awe-inspiring beauty of limestone mountains that rise majestically from the sea. This particular route, less traveled by cruise boats, offers a glimpse into the untouched and serene vistas of the bay, making it a unique experience away from the crowded areas. As the afternoon unfolds, the cruise nears the Ba Trai Dao (Three Peach beaches) or Tra Bau area in Lan Ha Bay, depending on the weather conditions. This area serves as a natural border between Halong and Haiphong provinces and is a secluded haven boasting pristine beaches, mysterious caves, and secluded coves amidst the splendor of approximately 400 islands. Here, guests have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the bay's natural beauty, engaging in optional kayaking or simply swimming in the bay's crystal-clear waters.

  15:30· 90 min· Halong Bay
• Vietnamese Cooking Demonstration

  As the day progresses towards the evening, guests aboard Heritage Binh Chuan Cruises make their way back to the comfort of the vessel, finding solace in their suites or the communal areas of the boat. It's a time to unwind with a refreshing drink, reveling in the peaceful ambiance as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the Gulf of Tonkin. The serene moment is enhanced by the breathtaking views of the sunset, providing a perfect backdrop for reflection and relaxation. The cruise offers an engaging afternoon tea, a testament to the leisurely pace of life on board. In a highlight of the evening, the ship's chef takes center stage, leading a Vietnamese cooking demonstration. This interactive session not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a glimpse into the rich culinary traditions of Vietnam, allowing guests to take home not just memories but also the skills to recreate a piece of their journey in their own kitchens.

  18:00· 60 min· Halong Bay
• Onboard Squid Fishing

  After dinner, you can enjoy evening views of the bay at the bar on the top deck. Bars are open late onboard. For those that want to partake in trying their hand at squid fishing, the crew will provide you with equipment and instructions.

  21:00· 60 min· Halong Bay

The second day on the Halong Bay Cruise begins with an invigorating optional early morning session of Vovinam on the sundeck, inviting you to greet the sunrise with energy. Following this, a light breakfast is served onboard, setting you up for the day's first adventure. You'll then embark on a journey in a bamboo boat to explore the mesmerizing Dark and Bright Cave, where the natural beauty of sparkling stalactites and the soulful ambiance of the surrounding nature captivate your senses. After returning to the boat for checkout, you're treated to a delightful brunch while the cruise makes its way back to the mainland, offering one last chance to soak in the breathtaking views. The journey concludes at the Tuan Chau Marina, from where you disembark, carrying forward the memories of the day's experiences into your onward journey. A private transfer will take you back to Hanoi to check into your hotel, and later you will join the group for a final farewell dinner.

• Bamboo Boat Cave Tour

  Take a journey on a bamboo boat to explore the Dark and Bright Cave, offering an intimate encounter with nature's quiet majesty. This experience allows you to glide through the tranquil waters at a leisurely pace, where the play of light and shadow creates a serene atmosphere, inviting introspection and a deep connection with the natural world. As you navigate the calm, emerald waters, the cave reveals its hidden treasures - sparkling stalactites that adorn the ceiling like jewels, each formation a testament to the passage of time and the artistic hand of nature. A life jacket will be provided. Return to the boat for lunch and checkout.

  07:30· 120 min· Halong Bay
• Transfer · Halong Bay → Hanoi

  From the Tuan Chau Marina, you will be picked up for a private transfer back to the hotel in Hanoi. Restroom breaks will be made as needed.

  private · 120 min

All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of Hanoi International/Noi Bai Airport (HAN).