07D/06N - Hanoi, Sapa & Halong Bay
Itinerary Highlights:
• An early morning visit to Hoan Kiem Lake
• Strolling through Sapa’s beautiful gardens, lush pine forests and hidden villages
• Sailing around Ha Long Bay, one of the most spectacular UNESCO World Heritage areas
Day 01: Arrive in Hanoi
Upon arrival in Hanoi you’ll be met by your guide and transferred to your accommodation. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to explore. Overnight at Sofitel Metrople
Day 02: Hanoi - Lao Cai
This morning, you’ll meet your guide early to visit Hoan Kiem Lake where you’ll see the locals starting their day with Tai Chi and aerobics. You’ll also visit Ngoc Son Temple, in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake, for a local coffee.
Afterwards, you’ll embark on a walking tour of Hanoi’s Old Quarter where you’ll see St. Joseph Cathedral, Hoa Lo Prison and Huu Tiep Lake, better known as ‘B-52 lake’, where US B-52 bomber wreckage can be seen.
After lunch you’ll head to the Temple of Literature, built in 1076 and home to Vietnam’s first university, followed by a look at Hanoi’s mesmerising railway tracks. You’ll finish your day with evening beers – just like a local! After your tour you will be transferred to the train station to board the Victoria Express Train.
Day 03: Lao Cai - Sapa - Ma Tra Village
You’ll arrive in Sapa in the early morning and your guide will transfer you to your accommodation.
In the afternoon you’ll be escorted on a short walk through Sapa’s beautiful gardens, lush pine forests, paddy fields and hidden villages. You’ll visit a local school and the church of Ta Phin before returning to Sapa. Overnight at Topas Ecolodge
Day 04: Sapa - Nam Cang - Lao Cai
This morning you’ll be taken off the beaten track and into Hoang Lien National Park for a stunning hike amongst the mountains, waterfalls and valleys. You’ll weave through villages, meet the locals and watch the farmers at work before arriving at Nam Cang village.
Here, lunch will be served at Nam Cang Riverside Lodge.
Together with your guide, you’ll explore the village while learning how the locals make writing paper with rice, silver jewelry and colorful embroidery. You’ll also get a chance to swim in the river before being driven back to Lao Cai station for your night train to Hanoi.
Day 05: Hanoi - Ha Long Bay
Upon arrival in Hanoi you’ll be met by your guide and escorted to your hotel.
After a short rest you’ll be driven to Ha Long Bay, where you’ll set sail around one of the most spectacular UNESCO World Heritage areas. You’ll have the opportunity to explore Tunnels Cave by bamboo boat or kayak, and indulge in some onboard activities such as a spa treatment, Master Chef Style competition and fruit carving. Dinner will be served before spending the evening on board the boat at your leisure.
Day 06: Ha Long Bay - Lan Ha Bay
You’ll start your day with lovely breakfast on the boat. In the morning you’ll continue to sail around the bay, stopping off to cycle through the tropical jungle of the National Park before lunch at a restaurant.
In the afternoon, you’ll have the chance to kayak amongst hidden caves before returning to the boat for Happy Hour and a barbeque buffet.
The evening is free for you to spend at your leisure, watch movies or go squid fishing.
Day 07: Ha Long Bay - Catba island - Hanoi
You’ll start the day with a sunset session on the sundeck, or just enjoying the breathtaking views of the bay while you leisurely make your way back to port. On the way you’ll stop to explore Van Boi floating village, with its rustic floating houses and friendly natives.
You’ll experience a traditional Vietnamese tea ceremony before returning to Hanoi and go directly to the airport.
The above itinerary is a sample only. All itineraries are crafted to suit client’s interests, time and budget requirements. Please get in touch to speak to a country specialist and start planning your bespoke journey now.
Updated cruises and tours
02 Days - Lan Ha bay, Halong Bay & Cat Ba island on Indochine Classic
Price: USD 0
Departure
ALL YEAR ROUND