Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you’ll be welcomed by your local guide and transferred to your hotel in the city center. Take time to relax after your flight. Hanoi’s unique charm lies in its rich cultural tapestry, a blend of Southeast Asian, Chinese, and French colonial influences. Its historic Old Quarter—alive with narrow shopfronts, motorbikes, and hidden temples—offers a captivating preview of Vietnam’s dynamic capital.
Best of Northern Vietnam and Laos 16 Days / 15 Nights
Embark on a rich and immersive journey through Northern Vietnam and Laos, exploring timeless traditions, dramatic landscapes, and authentic local encounters. This thoughtfully curated itinerary invites you to walk the bustling lanes of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, sail through the tranquil limestone peaks of Lan Ha Bay, uncover ancient temples, and discover ethnic cultures along scenic rivers and verdant mountain trails. From biking through peaceful villages in Ninh Binh to ziplining into jungle treehouses in Laos’ Gibbon Experience, this 16-day adventure delivers unforgettable cultural insights and meaningful experiences across two of Southeast Asia’s most charming destinations.
Begin your morning like a true local with a visit to Hoan Kiem Lake to witness or join tai chi and morning exercises. Visit Ngoc Son Temple before enjoying a cup of Vietnam’s famous iced coffee or egg coffee at a traditional café. Try an authentic Bánh Mì sandwich before exploring the French colonial architecture around St. Joseph Cathedral. Visit the Museum of Ethnology for insights into Vietnam’s ethnic diversity. For lunch, indulge in Bun Cha—Hanoi’s signature dish. Then head to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, followed by a walk along the unique residential railway tracks. Cap off your day with a one-hour cyclo ride through the Old Quarter and relax with a local draft beer at a Bia Hoi corner.
Leave Hanoi behind for a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Ninh Binh, Vietnam’s ancient capital. Explore Hoa Lu, visiting the temples of King Dinh and Le and remnants of the old citadel. Journey through peaceful backroads to Tam Coc, where you’ll enjoy lunch before a relaxing sampan boat ride through the Tam Coc grottoes, surrounded by towering karst mountains and golden rice paddies. Visit Bich Dong Pagoda, a charming multi-level sanctuary nestled against limestone cliffs, offering panoramic countryside views. End your day in a peaceful eco-resort in the countryside.
Depart Ninh Binh for Halong’s Tuan Chau Marina. After a welcome at the Heritage Cruise lounge, you’ll board your luxury vessel bound for Lan Ha Bay. Cruise past Da Chong Islet and enjoy lunch as you enter the lesser-known but equally spectacular Lan Ha Bay. Explore Gia Luan Lagoon and arrive at Ba Trai Dao (Three Peaches) Beach, where you can swim or kayak in secluded emerald waters. Return for sunset cocktails on the deck followed by a romantic dinner. Enjoy evening activities such as squid fishing, movies, or spa indulgence aboard this elegant floating sanctuary.
Start your day with sunrise tai chi and breakfast before transferring by speedboat to Cat Ba Island. Take a bicycle or electric cart ride through lush landscapes to Viet Hai Village. Learn about local life, explore small farms, and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Later, kayak around a traditional fishing farm and visit the remote and idyllic Three Peaches Beach for more swimming or beach relaxation. Return to your cruise for sunset and dinner under the stars.
Begin your morning with a Vovinam martial arts session on the sundeck. After a light breakfast, hop on a bamboo boat to explore the mystical Dark & Bright Cave. Return to the cruise for a hearty brunch while sailing back to port. Disembark and drive back to Hanoi where you’ll check into your hotel and relax for the evening.
You’ll have free time this morning before your transfer to the airport for your short flight to Luang Prabang, Laos. Upon arrival, meet your guide and head to your hotel to check in. The rest of the day is free for you to absorb the serene charm of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved temples, colonial architecture, and tranquil riverside setting.
Start with a hike through peaceful countryside to Mandalao Elephant Conservation. Learn about elephant behavior, feed them, and walk alongside them through forests and streams—no riding involved. After lunch with locally grown ingredients, return to Luang Prabang and continue to the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls. En route, visit ethnic minority villages such as the Hmong and Khmu, then enjoy a swim in turquoise pools or stroll forest trails before returning to your hotel by evening.
Wake early to witness the sacred ritual of alms-giving to Buddhist monks, then return for breakfast. Explore Luang Prabang with visits to the Royal Palace Museum, Wat Xieng Thong, Wat Visoun, and the fascinating Arts and Ethnology Center. In the afternoon, board a train to Luang Namtha, then continue by private transfer to HoueiSay, arriving in the evening for check-in at your riverside hotel.
After breakfast, transfer to the Gibbon Experience office. Your jungle journey begins with a scenic drive and a two-hour trek to a remote waterfall. From there, soar through the treetops by zipline to reach your treehouse—a truly unique overnight stay. Spend the afternoon hiking or relaxing in the forest canopy before enjoying dinner in the treetops.
Wake to birdsong and jungle mist. After breakfast, embark on a scenic 2-hour hike to a second treehouse. Along the way, enjoy ziplining and hiking through untouched jungle terrain. Spend the afternoon at leisure or join more zipline adventures before dinner and another magical night in the treetops.
Begin your final morning with the hope of hearing gibbons singing. After breakfast, hike back to the village and transfer by car back to HoueiSay, arriving in the afternoon. Rest at your riverside hotel after the adventure-filled jungle experience.
Board a join-in cruise and begin your journey along the majestic Mekong River toward Pakbeng. Enjoy traditional Lao lunch on board and an insightful cultural introduction by the guide. En route, visit the Kamu village of Ban Keng Lae for a glimpse of rural life. Arrive in Pakbeng in the late afternoon for an overnight at a peaceful riverside lodge.
Depart Pakbeng and cruise downriver through scenic jungle landscapes. Stop at Ban Muang to see traditional Lao whiskey making and later visit the sacred Pak Ou Caves, home to thousands of Buddha images. Enjoy a handmade dessert on board before arriving in Luang Prabang by late afternoon. Transfer to your hotel for the evening.
Set out for a half-day hike through lush hillsides and remote villages. Experience the rhythms of rural life in Ban Houei Fai, interact with friendly locals, and take in panoramic views. Return to Luang Prabang in the afternoon for some free time and a final evening at leisure.
Enjoy your last morning at leisure before your transfer to the airport for your departure flight. We hope this journey through Northern Vietnam and Laos has left you with unforgettable memories and a deep connection to the people and cultures of this fascinating region. Tour ends.