4 days Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay & Ninh Binh

Day 1: Hanoi - Halong Bay 

This morning we start from our hotel located in Hanoi's Old Quarter between 7.30am - 8.00am. We travel by minibus for 3.5 hours to Halong Bay, the journey is through the early morning streets of Hanoi on the way to the spectacular World Heritage-listed site of Halong Bay. 

The bay is a breathtaking secluded harbour, with some 1,600 limestone islands jutting out of the waters of the Tonkin Gulf. On arrival we board our private boat. Our traditional junk-style boat is designed with its beautiful woodwork and bamboo, and has cabins that have air-conditioning and private facilities. 

There's also a dining room and bar to enjoy lunch, dinner and breakfast. We calmly float among the dramatic limestone peaks - time to relax and appreciate the sublime beauty of the bay. The captain finds a serene spot, so soak up the sun on the top deck.

Those who are feeling energetic and wish to get a close view of the scenic rock formations can climb aboard a sea kayak for a leisurely exploration of the bay. The limestone cliffs just tower above us when we're floating alone on the calm water. 

We explore a cave filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. With great food, beautiful surroundings and a peaceful night on board, beneath the night sky and to the sounds of gentle waves lapping at the hull, we have an enjoyable and memorable evening. (Lunch and dinner are included)

Day 2: Halong Bay - Bai Tu Long Bay

We wake up amidst the bay’s stunning karst scenery and enjoy breakfast on the boat. Perhaps we head out for an optional early morning kayak among limestone pillars and across the mysty waters of Halong Bay. Next we continue boating to explore some of the bay’s truly awesome scenery – vertical and unusual rocks and islets emerge from the sea.

We admire our last glimpses of Halong Bay over an early lunch as the boat returns to the dock. From there, we board our minibus for a journey to Bai Tu Long Bay. We drive due north to Cai Rong Island. In Bai Tu Long Bay we enjoy a beautiful boat trip among the spectacular limestone peaks. Weather permitting, we take a kayaking ride through stunning rock formations and fishing villages.

Arriving on Quan Lan Island, a serene and beautiful island in Bai Tu Long Bay, we head to our lodge. Our lodge is tastefully designed with textile and bamboo accents on the bedding, adorned with traditional furnishing, the room is peaceful and exotic.

At our warm and friendly lodge we have the opportunity to learn to make traditional Vietnamese Spring Rolls and succulent fish dipping sauce and Squid dish. Tonight we stay overnight in our comfortable lodge. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included)

Day 3: Bai Tu Long Bay - Ninh Binh

Quan Lan Island is located in Bai Tu Long Bay. The island is blessed with stunning beaches, scenic hills, sand dunes and surroundings sprinkled with tiny villages. There is so much to see and do on Quan Lan Island - why not get a feel for the island by exploring an early fishing market or taking a quiet morning strolling around the picturesque village of Quan Lan and watching the day unfold on the island.

Next, we cycle to explore further northern reaches of the island. Late in the morning we board our boat to discover further northern reaches of Bai Tu Long Bay. This is followed by our return journey to Ninh Binh, arriving there late in the afternoon. The night is spent in a local lodge. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included)

Day 4: Ninh Binh - Hanoi

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.

After a leisurely stroll through nearby villages and along the banks of the tranquil Sao Khe River, we continue to Mua Cave. Upon ascending Mua Mountain, we enjoy a panoramic view of the stunning surroundings, with the sunset casting a warm glow over the mystical limestone mountain range. We then make our way back to Hanoi, arriving around 6 pm. (Breakfast and lunch are included)

The facts…

Physical activities: Easy kayaking, cycling and walking with:
 

• A 1-2 hour kayaking ride on Day 1 and Day 2
• A 4-6 km bicycle ride on Day 3
• A 4-6 km walk and a 8-10 km bicycling ride on Day 4
   

Transport:

• Boat
• Kaya
• Bicycle
• Air-conditioned vehicle (Car or Bus)

Tour Guide: Our experienced, friendly and professional tour guide speaks good English. He is knowledgeable about local cultures, history and the environment.

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.

Accommodation:
 

• Overnight stay boat (1 night)
• Lodge (2 nights)

The trip cost:
 

• $398USD per person for a group of 2 to 12 people
• $336USD per person for a group of 13 to 16 people

The cost of the trip includes:
 

• Accommodation
• Transportation
• Tour guide
   
• Meals listed on the itinerary
• Purified drinking water
• Entrance fees
• VAT and other taxes
   

The cost of the trip does not include:
 

• Travel insurance
• Drinks (soft drinks, alcohol)
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities

What to Bring:

Pack essentials, including light comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities, comfortable walking shoes. Take a small day pack for cycling. We also recommend packing: swimsuit, personal articles, insect repellent, sun cream, raincoat and sun hat...

Have a great journey!!!