Exploration from Northern to Central Vietnam in 12 days

Exploration from Northern to Central Vietnam in 12 days

  • Hanoi (arrival)
  • Lao Cai
  • Bac Ha
  • Ninh Binh
  • Sapa
  • Halong Bay
  • Hue
  • Hanoi (departure)
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12 days, 11 nights
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  • Vietnam Family Tours
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    From 1115 US$

    This budget-friendly 12-day itinerary from the North to the Central regions of Vietnam is sure to captivate you. We have thoughtfully balanced this tour to combine structured activities with free days for personal discovery and leisure. Experience overnight stays with local families in Bac Ha, evenings on traditional junk boats in Halong Bay, vibrant weekly markets, scenic hiking trails, and more. This tour offers a gateway to Vietnam's spirit and heritage, all within a concise 12 days!

    Exploration from Northern to Central Vietnam in 12 days
    What unique experiences await during your trip?
    • Explore the major sites of northern and central Vietnam.
    • Enjoy a balanced itinerary with guided tours and free days for independent exploration.
    • Cruise through Halong Bay on a traditional junk boat.
    • Optionally extend your trip to explore the southern region of the country.
    Stages of the journey
    • Hanoi (arrival)
    • Lao Cai
    • Bac Ha
    • Ninh Binh
    • Sapa
    • Halong Bay
    • Hue
    • Hanoi (departure)
    Tour map
    Program description

    Welcome to Hanoi, the millennia-old capital of Vietnam and the perfect starting point for Kampá Tour's 12-day itinerary from North to Central Vietnam. The city's name, meaning 'Inside the River,' was formerly known as Thang Long, or 'The Soaring Dragon.' Once the capital of French Indochina, Hanoi bears the distinct mark of European architectural style, which is especially noticeable in the city center.

    Depending on your hotel's location, you may pass through the Old Quarter and its 36 streets—the historical heart of this long-standing merchant city. The street names originated from the goods produced and sold there, such as Cotton, Iron, Sugar, and Traditional Medicine. You can stop at Ma May Street to visit the Ancient House of Vietnamese, showcasing the traditional architecture of Hanoi. The rest of the day invites you to relax and unwind.

    Overnight in Hanoi.

    Enjoy a day dedicated to independently exploring Hanoi's notable cultural sites and historical monuments. We highly recommend visiting locations such as Hoan Kiem Lake with the Jade Mountain Temple and Turtle Island, the Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum and Stilt House, colonial heritage sites including French concessions, and the Ethnology Museum.

    In the afternoon, transfer to the station to board the overnight train to Lao Cai, the capital of the northwest mountains.

    Overnight in a cabin.

    Arriving early in Lao Cai, you'll enjoy breakfast at a local restaurant before heading to Bac Ha, a peaceful town about 100 kilometers northeast of Sapa.

    Upon arrival, embark on a scenic hike through the surrounding mountains, hills, valleys, and ethnic villages. You'll traverse lush fir forests and reach Ngai Phong Cho, a village inhabited by the Flower Hmong and Phu La communities, where traditional mud houses still stand.

    Continue your trek to the rarely visited Thai Giang Pho and Na Lo villages, home to the Tay and Black Hmong minorities, and soak in the stunning landscapes of rice terraces and winding rivers. The day ends with a warm homestay experience with a Tay ethnic family, where you'll share dinner and gain insight into their customs.

    Your night will be spent in homestay accommodation, typically a cozy room in a traditional house with mosquito nets, comfortable mattresses, and clean sheets. The bathroom, equipped with hot water and towels, as well as shared toilets, are often located outside for an authentic experience.

    Eat with locals

    Depending on the day of the week, you'll have the opportunity to explore the vibrant weekly markets of the local minorities in the Bac Ha region. (Tuesday: Coc Ly market, Wednesday: Sin Cheng market, Saturday: Can Cau market, Sunday: Muong Hum market, Muong Khuong or Bac Ha). At these markets, you'll meet with colorful ethnic groups who gather to exchange goods and share news within their communities. You'll also witness the fascinating cattle trade practices among the local minorities.

    Afterward, we'll journey to Sapa, a picturesque destination once favored as a French resort during the colonial era. Nestled at the edge of the country, amidst the renowned Hoang Lien Son mountain range, Sapa boasts a temperate climate. Today, it's celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes typical of the northern high mountains, featuring winding zigzag paths along the hills and boundless rice terraces. Additionally, Sapa is known for its rich cultural heritage, including traditional villages, lively markets, and diverse ethnic minority communities.

    In the afternoon, we'll venture off the well-trodden path to explore Hang Da and Sa Seng, two splendid high-altitude areas situated to the east of Sapa. Your journey will take you through the karst limestone formations of Hang Da, passing through quaint hamlets while observing local agricultural activities. Continuing on, you'll traverse Sa Seng, a long valley flanked by mountain ranges, offering picturesque views of lush forests and pristine waterways.

    As the day comes to a close, we'll return to the town of Sapa, where you'll spend the night at a comfortable hotel. 

    Prepare for a day of enchanting hiking through the stunning and exotic landscapes of the Muong Hoa Valley. Situated in the southwest of Sapa, at the base of Mount Fansipan—the highest peak in Indochina—Muong Hoa Valley beckons with its natural beauty. During your exploration, you'll visit ethnic villages scattered throughout the valley, including Y Linh Ho and Lao Chai, home to the Black Hmong, as well as Ta Van, inhabited by the Dzay people.

    You'll have the chance to engage with local residents as they toil in the verdant rice fields, gaining insights into their daily routines and way of life. Muong Hoa Valley, framed by steep mountains, is a cultural mosaic inhabited by various minority ethnic groups such as the Hmong, Dzao, Dzay, and Tay, all of whom rely on rice farming for their livelihoods.

    As the day comes to a close, we'll journey back to Hanoi by road, where you'll spend the night and rest after an exhilarating day of exploration.

    Departure for Ninh Binh – the land of limestone karsts, sugarloaf mountains, and rice fields flooded by rivers and lakes throughout the year.

    Arrival in Ninh Xuan, visit to Mua Mountain. Climb a 486-step white stone staircase to the summit of this bell-shaped mountain, which offers a panoramic view of the Tam Coc region.

    A limestone mountain located near the rivers and sugarloaf mountains of Tam Coc. In the past, it was renowned for its dance performances for the kings of the Tran Dynasty (13th-14th century).

    Afterward, transfer to Tam Coc for a bike ride and leisurely exploration of this fabulous region.

    Explore a vast landscape featuring sugarloaf-shaped rock formations, rice paddies, and rivers. Enjoy boat rides on the Ngo Dong River, winding through the sugarloaf peaks, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the lush surrounding nature.

    In the afternoon, enjoy a boat trip along the Ngo Dong River to explore the beauty of Tam Coc. This meandering river takes you through lush rice fields, past picturesque sugar loaf hills, and beneath the three enchanting caves nestled at the base of towering limestone peaks.

    At the end of the day, return to Hanoi for an overnight stay at the hotel.

    To reduce driving hours, there's the option to stay overnight in Ninh Binh instead of returning to Hanoi during the day. The next morning, you can continue your journey to Halong Bay with a private guide and car (additional charges apply).

    Departure for Halong – the most beautiful bay in Vietnam, one of the most magical landscapes in Asia. Boarding upon arrival aboard a traditional junk. Welcome by the crew then departure for a magnificent cruise on the bay. Visit Bai Tu Long (northern part of Halong Bay):

    • Admire the picturesque islands and islets with various shapes (sail, dog, rooster, incense, etc.).
    • Explore the splendid caves of Halong Bay, including Thien Canh Son, housing stalagmites and stalactites dating back thousands of years.
    • Continue the cruise to Cap La, where you can enjoy a kayak ride and swim in the sublime waters of the bay (weather permitting).
    • In the late afternoon, relax on the upper deck of the junk.

    Lunch and dinner on board the junk.

    Enjoy a free evening for personal rest and relaxation, which can include card games or night fishing.

    Spend the night on board.

    Wake up at dawn to witness a spectacular moment: the first rays of sunlight painting the limestone karsts of the bay, followed by a serene Tai Chi session on the terrace.

    Embark on a boat or kayak excursion to explore the fishing village of Vung Vieng, where you may have the opportunity to meet and interact with the local residents.

    Enjoy lunch on the junk before disembarking and heading back to Hanoi.

    In the evening, catch a flight to Hue, the historic imperial city located in the central part of Vietnam.

    Overnight stay in Hue.

    Enjoy a leisure day to explore the city of Hue, known as the last imperial capital of Vietnam from 1802 to 1945.

    You have the opportunity to visit the Imperial City, picturesque mausoleums of the Nguyen emperors, Thien Mu Pagoda - the most beautiful and popular pagoda in Hue, or the serene Tu Hieu Pagoda where the tombs of Nguyen dynasty eunuchs are located. Additionally, you can explore Dong Ba Market, the largest and oldest market in Hue, where you can find local specialties such as conical hats, tunics, and more.

    Overnight stay at the hotel.

    Commence a road journey to the enchanting town of Hoi An, situated approximately 150 km to the south of Hue. This scenic drive offers several captivating stops along the way:

    • Discover the unspoiled, less-touristy Thuan An and Lang Co beaches, both boasting long stretches of golden sands. Additionally, you'll encounter vast lagoons where diverse types of fish farms support the local community.
    • Traverse the Cloud Pass, renowned as the highest mountain pass in central Vietnam. This significant pass, nestled between Hue and Da Nang, serves as a natural climatic boundary that separates the northern and southern regions of the country. As you reach its summit, you'll be treated to awe-inspiring vistas of the stunning bays of Lang Co and Da Nang, stretching as far as the eye can behold.
    • Be captivated by picturesque roadside cemeteries affectionately known as "Ghost Towns." These cemeteries feature clusters of intricately carved tomb-castles, each showcasing distinct Asian architectural styles. From a distance, they resemble opulent cities.

    Upon your afternoon arrival in Hoi An, you'll proceed to check in at your hotel, where you'll enjoy a comfortable overnight stay.

    Enjoy a full day at your leisure for independent exploration of Hoi An's charming old town. You have various options:

    • Explore the historic Old Quarter, wander through its narrow streets, and discover its unique charm. You can also indulge in shopping for local products like lacquerware, handicrafts, and more.

    • Consider getting tailor-made clothing at one of the renowned silk shops in town. Hoi An is famous for its skilled tailors, and you can have custom garments created to your liking.

    • Embark on a delightful bike ride into the picturesque countryside surrounding Hoi An. Along the way, you'll encounter traditional villages specializing in various crafts such as vegetable farming, pottery, and carpentry.

    • Weather permitting, unwind on the exquisite Eastern Sea beaches, including Cua Dai and An Bang, renowned as Vietnam's most beautiful. Bask in the sun and embrace the refreshing sea breeze for a truly revitalizing experience.

    After a day of exploration and relaxation, return to your hotel for the night. 

    On this final day of your 12-day Vietnam itinerary, you have a free day to rest or make last-minute purchases. Depending on your flight schedule, a tour guide from Kampá Tour will drop you off at the airport for your departure from Hanoi.

    Until next time!

    Optional activities
    Below are small activities or 'unique and memorable' experiences to add to your itinerary, making your trip more complete and remarkable.
    Hanoi Egg Coffee
    Trying a cup of coffee with egg is a rather unusual experience that should be on the wish list of any future visitor to the capital of Vietnam.
    Hanoi Gastronomy and culture Add to the itinerary
    Ancient Hue House: An Architectural and Artistic Masterpiece of Hue
    If you're in search of chic, poetic, and charming accommodation for your stay in Hue, the former imperial capital in the Central region of Vietnam, we wholeheartedly recommend Ancient Hue Houses.
    Hue Essentials Add to the itinerary
    Halong Bay by seaplane, an extraordinary experience to live
    What could be more extraordinary than a seaplane flight over the wonderful Halong Bay? The activity offers you a UNIQUE opportunity to discover the exceptional landscapes seen from the sky
    Quang Ninh Well-being and relaxation Add to the itinerary
    Cooking classes in Hoi An
    Would you like to try an activity that is among the top 10 experiences of a trip to Vietnam?
    Hoi An Gastronomy and culture Add to the itinerary
    Hoi An Countryside Tour by Bike
    The bicycle remains the best option to soak up and enjoy the charming city and its peaceful countryside.
    Hoi An Discovery & Relaxation Add to the itinerary
    Tour Price
    1115 US$per person
    This price, calculated for four people staying in standard hotels, may vary based on:
    • Travel period
    • Number of travelers
    • Chosen services
    This price includes:
    • Accommodation for the entire circuit, in hotels or with locals
    • Travel according to the program by private car
    • English-speaking guide for the visits mentioned in the program
    • All activities mentioned in the program, including entrance fees to tourist sites
    • Economy class domestic flights with airport taxes included
    • Meals mentioned in the program
    • Bottle of water during guided tours (2 x 500ml/traveler/day)
    • Government taxes currently in force (VAT, etc.)
    This price does not include:
    • International flights from your home
    • Visa fees, payable directly at the airport customs (see VISA)
    • Bank fees related to payment
    • Personal insurance
    • Personal beverages during meals: beer, Coca-Cola, fruit juice, etc.
    • Other meals not specified in the program
    • SIM card and mobile plans
    • Tips, personal expenses, and other services not mentioned in the "Our Included Services" section
    Services for this trip
    Your accommodation:
    Hôtel & Resort Victoria Beach Hoi An
    Hôtel An Lam Nha Trang
    Hôtel Ana Mandara Da Lat
    Hôtel & Resort La Veranda Phu Quoc
    Hôtel Asia Hue
    Your cruise on Halong Bay:
    Cat Ba Sailing Junk Lan Ha Bay
    Cat Ba, Hai Phong
    Cat Ba Sailing Junk Lan Ha Bay
    Dragon Legend
    Halong
    Dragon Legend
    Garden Bay
    Halong
    Garden Bay
    Your transport:
    7 seater car
    16 seater car
    Car interior equipment
    Livitrans express train
    Lan Diep Cruise (on the Mekong River)
    La Marguerite Cruise (on the Mékong River)
    Mekong
    La Marguerite Cruise (on the Mékong River)
    Trang VU, 36 years old
    Trang VU, 36 years old
    Travel Consultant

    Interested in this tour?

    Tell us about your travel plans! We will prepare a personalized program and quote that meets your desires.

    YOUR TRAVEL PROJECT

    Number of participants
    Adults (>12 years old)
    Childrens (<12 years old)
    Scheduled period
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    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. Is 10 days enough to see the highlights of Vietnam?

    Yes, 10 days is enough to see many of the highlights of Vietnam. With our well-planned itinerary, you can experience the vibrant cities, historic sites, stunning landscapes, and rich culture. Focusing on key regions such as the north, central, and south can provide a comprehensive overview of the country's diverse attractions.

    2. What is a "tailor-made trip"?

    3. What are some family-friendly activities to include in a Vietnam 10-day itinerary?

    4. When is the best time to visit Northern Vietnam?

    5. When is the best time for a tour with a beach extension in Vietnam?

    6. What budget should I plan for a trip to Vietnam?

    7. What are the 'must-visit' sites during a trip to Vietnam?

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    Kampá Tour, specialist in tailor-made trips....

    Kampá Tour is a local travel agency specializing in organizing custom private trips throughout Asia: Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Sri Lanka, and more. With 15 years in the industry, we take pride in successfully arranging numerous trips for travelers from around the globe.
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    Step 1: Fill Out the Request Form
    Step 1: Fill Out the Request Form
    By clicking on the "Request a Quote" or "Contact our consultant" button, you will access a detailed form where you can provide all the necessary information for us to design an itinerary tailored to your needs and desires.
    Step 2: Receive Your Customized Itinerary
    Step 2: Receive Your Customized Itinerary
    Upon receiving your request, your consultant will carefully study your wishes before proposing an itinerary perfectly adapted to your desires. You will receive this program as soon as possible.
    Step 3: Review and Adjust Your Itinerary
    Step 3: Review and Adjust Your Itinerary
    Even with an established program, you can make modifications, and your consultant will always be available to listen. They can also provide relevant advice to ensure that your itinerary is logical and perfectly personalized.
    Step 4: Stay Connected
    Step 4: Stay Connected
    Your consultant will accompany you not only in the preparation but also during your trip. They will remain fully available to assist you if needed and will follow your journey until your departure.
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