As the sun begins to set, we make our way to Cong Do, where we will spend the night aboard our comfortable boat. Relax on the deck and soak in the tranquil atmosphere as you enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by our onboard chef. Fall asleep to the gentle lapping of the waves, surrounded by the beauty of Bai Tu Long Bay. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included)

Day 10: Bai Tu Long Bay - Ha Long Bay

Start your day early with Tai Chi exercises. Afterward, enjoy a light buffet breakfast and take some time to relax and prepare for the day ahead. Next, transfer to the day cruise boat and set sail through Bai Tu Long Bay towards the heart of Halong Bay. Along the way, you'll explore the Trinh Nữ Cave area and the Trong Cave area. Continue cruising towards Lan Ha Bay in the Tung Sau area, where you can enjoy kayaking and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. You'll also have the chance to visit a pearl farm and learn about Halong Bay's agriculture.

After enjoying a delicious lunch served on board, the boat takes a different route back to Bai Tu Long Bay. You'll have the chance to explore the magnificent Me Cung Cave or Tien Ong Cave (Heaven Scene Mountain Cave). Later, return to the overnight boat for continued cruising to the Cong Do overnight area. Unwind on the deck, savoring the serene atmosphere, and delight in a delectable dinner prepared by our onboard chef. Drift off to sleep to the soothing sound of waves, enveloped in the beauty of Bai Tu Long Bay. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included)

Day 11: Bai Tu Long Bay - Ninh Binh

We continue exploring the truly fascinating scenery of the bay, with vertical and unusual rocks and islets emerging from the sea. Enjoy a serene bamboo boat ride to visit the floating fishing village of Vung Vieng, located in Halong Bay, Vietnam. Vung Vieng is known for its picturesque setting and traditional way of life, where local people live on floating houses and make their livelihood through fishing and aquaculture. Here, we have the opportunity to observe the daily rhythm of life. Afterward, we return to Halong City and board our vehicle for the journey to Ninh Binh, arriving around 4 PM.

The rest of the time is spent with a hospitable local family. Here, we learn the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine through a hands-on cooking class led by the family. We explore the vibrant market for fresh ingredients before mastering the art of crafting spring rolls, zesty dipping sauces, and sticky rice. We share in the warmth of the family's hospitality as we enjoy a delicious dinner together. We stay overnight in a local family lodge. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included)
 

Day 12: Ninh Binh Exploration

We depart our lodge for our journey to the pagoda of Bich Dong. Located in Ninh Binh, the Bich Dong Pagoda is a scenic site with its serene beauty and historical significance. Perched amidst stunning natural surroundings, this ancient pagoda complex comprises three levels: Lower, Middle, and Upper. As we ascend the stone steps leading to the pagoda, they are greeted by lush greenery and scenic views of the surrounding landscape. The Lower Pagoda, nestled at the base of a limestone cliff, features intricately carved statues and altars dedicated to Buddha and other deities.

Continuing upward, visitors reach the Middle Pagoda, which offers panoramic views of the picturesque countryside below. Here, they can admire ancient Buddhist sculptures and architectural details dating back centuries. Finally, at the Upper Pagoda, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking views of the entire area, including nearby karst formations and winding rivers. The tranquil atmosphere and spiritual ambiance make it a perfect place for hikers.

Leaving Bich Dong behind we embark on a serene rowing boat ride along the Nang River, surrounded by lush greenery and towering limestone cliffs. The two-hour boat excursion weaves along this enchanting river and through the Thung Nang cave system, featuring several caverns adorned with stalactites. For the adventurous and energetic, there's an opportunity to climb up Mua Mountain and enjoy a panoramic view of the stunning surroundings, while witnessing the sunset cast its warm glow over the mystical limestone mountain range.

We also devote time to a scenic bicycle ride in Trang An. Trang An is renowned for its intricate network of rivers and caves, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its rugged limestone cliffs and emerald waters. The surrounding areas are dotted with tiny villages, picturesque paddy fields, temples, and hiking trails, adding to the charm of this UNESCO World Centre.

During our bicycling excursion we weave between towering limestone mountains, serene waterways, peaceful villages, verdant rice paddies, and enchanting historical sites. This presents a wonderful opportunity to immerse ourselves in the rhythms of everyday rural life. Our journey continues as we make our way to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, holds a special place in the country's history and heritage. Situated in the picturesque Ninh Binh province, Hoa Lu was the political and economic center of the country during the Dinh and early Le dynasties in the 10th and 11th centuries.

We explore the remnants of this once-thriving capital, including the remains of royal palaces, temples, and citadels. One of the most notable sites is the Dinh Tien Hoang Temple, dedicated to the first emperor of the Dinh Dynasty. The temple's architecture and ornate decorations offer insight into the grandeur of the era. Nearby, the Le Dai Hanh Temple honors the founder of the early Le Dynasty and provides a glimpse into the cultural and religious practices of the time.

Aside from its historical significance, Hoa Lu is also renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, with limestone karsts and lush greenery surrounding the ancient ruins. Following a leisurely stroll through nearby villages and along the banks of the tranquil Sao Khe River we make our way back to our lodge for our second night's stay. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included)

Day 13: Ninh Binh - Cuc Phuong National Park - Pu Luong Nature Reserve

After breakfast we journey to Van Long Nature Reserve. Van Long Nature Reserve is renowned for its largest nature reserve in Vietnam. Immerse yourself in the picturesque scenery as you enjoy a rowing boat ride along the nature reserve, amidst towering limestone peaks and serene backwaters.

Then, we journey to Cuc Phuong National Park, situated in Ninh Binh Province. Spanning over 200 square kilometers, Cuc Phuong is renowned as Vietnam's most celebrated national park, boasting a rich tapestry of biodiversity. As we venture into the park's verdant expanse, following scenic hiking trails we see diverse flora and fauna. Admire ancient and towering trees, vibrant flowers, and lush foliage or listen to the calls of exotic birds.

Continuing our exploration of Cuc Phuong National Park, we visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Centre and the Turtle Conservation Centre. These vital facilities provide invaluable insight into the ongoing conservation efforts dedicated to safeguarding endangered primate species and freshwater turtles.

At the Endangered Primate Rescue Centre, we have the opportunity to observe and learn about the various primate species native to Vietnam, many of which are critically endangered. Through educational programs and guided tours, we gain a deeper understanding of the challenges these primates face and the conservation initiatives aimed at their protection and rehabilitation.

Similarly, at the Turtle Conservation Centre, we witness firsthand the dedicated efforts to conserve and protect Vietnam's vulnerable freshwater turtle populations. Through educational exhibits, informative presentations, and interactive experiences, we gain insight into the threats facing these endangered creatures and the measures being taken to ensure their survival.

After our visit to the Endangered Primate Rescue Centre and the Turtle Conservation Centre, we head southwest to Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Nestled in a picturesque valley over 100 kilometers northwest of Cuc Phuong, Pu Luong is inhabited by the Black Thai, White Thai, and Muong ethnic minority groups.

Renowned for their hospitality and steadfast preservation of cultural traditions, these communities boast diverse and indigenous cultures that set them apart. The undulating hills, adorned with meticulously sculpted rice terraces, provide an idyllic setting for hiking and exploration. Upon reaching Pu Luong, we will be welcomed into the home of a Black Thai family, where we will spend the night. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included)

Day 14: Pu Luong Nature Reserve - Hanoi

The day begins with a morning hike along a footpath used by the local people, amidst splendid rice terraces, verdant hills, through tiny villages and along towering mountains. Along the way, we meet the local people at work as they plough their paddy fields behind water buffaloes, tend to their seasonal crops, or fish in the river.

After enjoying a bamboo boat raft along the Ma River, which is a significant waterway in Vietnam flowing through provinces like Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, and Son La, known for its scenic beauty, we board our vehicle and journey back to Hanoi, arriving around 6 pm. (Breakfast and lunch are included)

The facts…

Physical activities: Hiking, trekking, cycling and kayaking with: