4 days The Red River Delta and Bai Tu Long Bay

Hanoi, the Red River Delta, Bai Tu Long, Hanoi

Journey through the Red River Delta and Bai Tu Long Bay; the ideal trip for those who want to experience the timeless rural life of the delta in Ninh Binh province and enjoy the sheer beauty of the bay – an area geographically close to Ha Long Bay.

This trip provides a fantastic mix of villages, food, islands and the warm hospitality of a family homestay.

Day 1 Hanoi / The Red River Delta
We depart Hanoi between 7:45am to 8:00am and head off southwards to Ninh Binh province (about 100 km). Ninh Binh is located in the marshy Red River delta. On arrival at a village in Ninh Binh, we settle in with a local family.

Here, we pick vegetables from the villagers own plots and they give lessons in cooking traditional dishes, such as spring rolls, dipping fish sauce and fresh rice noodles. We then enjoy glorious food with them.

During the afternoon, we take a stroll around some peaceful villages, learn about rice cultivation and its extensive crops. Those with historical interests won't miss an opportunity to visit a solitary ancient pagoda that juts out alone from verdant rice fields.

We end our day in a typical village in the Red River delta. Here, we spend the night in a local family lodge to exprience their way of life. (Lunch and dinner are included).

Day 2 The Red River Delta 
After breakfast we set off to explore the Red River Delta. Cycling is the ideal way to explore miles and miles of vivid green rice fields stretched along the shores of the Red river's tributaries and enjoy the intimacy of the countryside.

We navigate along the river front, down tiny lanes, through rural villages and beyond. Here, water buffaloes lumber and graze on the grass, local people tend their crops and kids greet us warmly.

Arriving at Ninh Thang area, set among a network of charming waterways. We combine a short sampan ride along a scenic canal with a delightful hike around a unique area, known for its twisted magnificent rock formations caused by earth movement some hundred million years ago.

The night is spent in the same local family lodge. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included).

Day 3 The Red River Delta / Bai Tu Long Bay
Departing the Red River Delta we journey to Ha Long City. We follow its fertile road through flatlands of the delta flanked by endless green carpets of rice paddies.

We then head north to Bai Tu Long Bay. Shortly after arrival, we embark on a boat trip amongst spectacular limestone peaks.

Those who relish a close glimpse at rock formations and floating fishing villages can take a kayaking ride around the bay – time to relax and appreciate the sublime beauty of the bay.

Tonight we stay overnight in a local family lodge on Quan Lan Island. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included).

Day 4 Bai Tu Long Bay / Hanoi
Quan Lan Island is located in Bai Tu Long Bay. The island’s main assets comprise gorgeous beaches and lush jungle vegetation interspersed with patches of cultivated land.

Local farmers plant seasonal crops on their own plots and make a living from fishing offshore and gathering ocean creatures!

We settle on Quan Lan Island. From here, we cycle across the island and board our boat to explore some of the bay’s truly awesome scenery – vertical and unusual rocks and islets emerge from the sea.

This is followed by our return journey to Hanoi, arriving there at about 5pm. (Breakfast and lunch are included).

The facts…

Physical activities: 

Easy cycling, hiking and kayaking with:

- a 6-8 km stroll on Day 1.

- a 2-3 km hike and a 7-9 km bicycle ride on Day 2.

- a 1-2 hour kayaking ride on Day 3.

- a 5-8 km bicycle ride on Day 3.

- a 7-9 km bicycle ride on Day 4.

Transport: 

- boat.

- kayak.

- bicycle.

- vehicle.

Tour Guides: 

Our experienced and friendly tour guides speak fluent English.

They are knowledgeable about local cultures, history and the environment. 

Accommodation:

- homestay lodges (3 nights).

Meals: 

- 3 breakfasts.

- 4 lunches.

- 3 dinners. 

We choose local ingredients, typical of the way people eat in the area, at local restaurants, markets or homes. We also cater for Vegetarians but please request this at time of booking.

Trip cost: 

- $365USD per person for a group of 2 to 9 people.     
              
- $326USSD per person for a group of 10 to 20 people.

The cost of the trip includes: 

- accommodation.

- transportation.

- meals.

- tour guides.

- entrance fees.

- two bottles of mineral water.

- permits where applicable.

The cost of the trip does not include: 

- travel insurance.

- drinks (soft drinks, alcohol and bottled water).

- personal expenses.

- tips.

What to take: 

Pack essentials for 4 days away from Hanoi, including light comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities, comfortable walking shoes.

Take a small day pack for cycling and walking. 

It is essential to bring your passport on this trip.

We also recommend packing: swim suit, first-aid kit, personal articles, insect repellent, sun cream, raincoat and sun hat...