8 days Northern Explorer

Hanoi, Ba Be Lake, Cao Bang, Ban Gioc Waterfall, That Khe, Lang Son, Bai Tu Long Bay, Hanoi

This trip from Ba Be Lake to Bai Tu Long Bay is diverse and adventurous, offering out-of-the-way experiences that many travellers miss out on: We visit Pac Po, trek through hill tribe villages and explore Bai Tu Long Bay.

Day 1 Hanoi - Ba Be Lake

Departing from Hanoi between 7:30am to 8:00am, we embark on a route up into mountain areas north of Hanoi. Then onwards to Ba Be Lake National Park, one of the largest natural lakes in Vietnam, home to many kinds of bird, scenic valleys, towering rocky outcrops, underground tributaries rivers, a gigantic cave and local ethnic minorities, including the Tay, Red Dao and Hmong. Following a relaxing boat trip, we stroll along the river front. The night is spent in the traditional stilt-house of a Tay family. (Lunch and dinner are included)

Day 2 Ba Be Lake - Cao Bang - Pia Thap Village

After breakfast, we embark on a short drive to Hua Ma Cave, nestled in the southern reaches of Ba Be National Park. Hua Ma is adorned with numerous unique and breathtaking formations, offering a fascinating exploration experience. Following our adventure in Hua Ma Cave, we continue our journey to the charming village of Pia Thap. En route, we pause briefly to admire the scenic Ma Phuc Pass.
 

Day 3 Pia Thap - Ban Gioc Waterfall

Leaving Pia Thap behind, we journey northwest to Ngoc Con and Phong Nam, renowned for their picturesque landscapes in Cao Bang. Upon arrival, we are into the heart of this stunning valley, immersing ourselves in its natural beauty. Our hike leads us through majestic mountains adorned with lush limestone jungles, expansive rice fields, and tranquil streams meandering through the terrain. Along the way, we meet the local Tay and Nung ethnic minorities, offering us the opportunity to learn about their culture and life.

Our next destination is Ban Gioc Waterfall, a wonder of nature. Fed by the Quay Son River originating from China, the waterfall gracefully flows through Dam Thuy commune of Trung Khanh district. As it crosses the rice fields of Dam Thuy towards the vast alluvial plain of Ban Gioc village, it creates a spectacular sight. Against the backdrop of rice fields stand the villages of the Tay ethnic people, adorned with ancient stone houses on stilts.

Ban Gioc Waterfall itself marks the border between Vietnam and China, with its cascading waters forming a breathtaking natural wonder. The river branches into numerous streams, culminating in the impressive tiers of Ban Gioc Waterfall. Here, we leisurely stroll around the falls and its beautiful surroundings, perhaps opting for a bamboo raft ride along the pristine waters.

After our discovery of the waterfall, we venture on a hike through remote Tay villages and rice field trails, tracing the paths used by the local inhabitants. Our day concludes with a warm welcome at a local family homestay nestled amidst the verdant surroundings, accompanied by the sounds of the Quay Son River. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)

Day 4: Ban Gioc Waterfall - Ta Lung

The day begins by a short drive to the border town of Ta Lung, in an area marked by massive limestone cliffs jutting out of the rice fields, spotted by scenic hill tribe hamlets. We begin our adventure with a trek. We trek along towering limestone mountains and through ethnic minority villages, with breathtaking scenery. Tonight settle in with our friendly host of the Tay ethnic minority people for the night in a traditional house. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included)

Day 5 Cao Bang Trek

After breakfast we embark on another day’s trekking through several minority hamlets. We stop for lunch at the village of Dong Khe before venturing on to the Red Dao settlement of Pac Khoang. In the afternoon we trek to the Tay village of Na Pang where we stay overnight. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included)

Day 6 That Khe - Lang Son

We leave our hosts this morning and trek for a further 12 km until we reach the village of That Khe. After lunch in a local restaurant we meet up with our vehicle for a 2-hour drive to the border town of Lang Son. This town has become a booming trading town since the normalization of relations between China and Vietnam in the early 1990s. We go to visit To Thi Mountain, which received its name from the local legend concerning the lady named To Thi. The night is spent in a hotel in Lang Son. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included)

Day 7 Lang Son - Bai Tu Long Bay 

Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay of the submerged Dragon boasts 1,669craggy and towering islets and are amongst the most picturesque places in Vietnam. The fantastic beauty of the bays has given rise to many legends, some of them dating back to the ancient past as a dragon descended into the deep water.

Departing Lang Son betweern 7:30 to 7:45 we reach Bai Chay, the gateway to Bai Tu Long Bay. Upon arrival, we embark on a boating adventure, gliding through the serene waters of Bai Tu Long Bay. Discover hidden coves and towering karst formations as we explore this pristine marine landscape. Our journey continues to Cap La, where we have the opportunity to embark on a kayaking excursion. Paddle through crystal-clear waters, marveling at the beauty of the surrounding limestone cliffs.

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 8 Bai Tu Long Bay - Hanoi

After a serene night spent on the boat in Cong Do, we wake up to the stunning vistas of Bai Tu Long Bay. Our journey continues as we make our way to Vung Vieng floating village, a captivating community built on the waters of the bay. Explore the village and learn about their traditional way of life. Next, we head to Halong Bay before our boat returns to Bai Chay, where our adventure in Bai Tu Long Bay comes to an end. From there, we embark on our journey to Hanoi, arriving there by 4 pm. (Breakfast and lunch are included)

The facts…

Physical activities: 

Our itinerary includes walks, hikes and treks with:

• A 3-5 km hike on Day 1
• A 5-7 km hike on Day 2
   
• A 6-8 km trek from Day 3
• A 10-15 km trek on Day 4
   
• A 12-15 km trek on Day 5
• A 15-16 km trek on Day 6
   
• A 1-2 hour kayak ride on Day 7
• A 1-hour bamboo boat ride on Day 8

We need to be reasonably fit as the hikes and the treks can be challenging sometimes, depending on the weather conditions. 

From July to September, the climate is usually humid and hot. From October to June brings cooler and more pleasant weather.

Transport: 
 

• Air-conditionned vehicle (Car or Bus)
• Boat
• Kayak

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

Accommodation: 
 

• Hotel (1 night)
• Homestay (4 nights)
• Overnight boat (1 night)
   

Clean and comfortable homestays with mosquito nets provided.

Meals: 
 

• 7 breakfasts
• 8 lunches
• 7 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 please request this at time of booking.

Trip cost: 
 

• $688USD per person for a group of 2 to 6 people
• $567USD per person for a group of 7 to 10 people

The cost of the trip includes: 
 

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

The cost of the trip does not include: 
 

• Travel insurance
• Drinks (soft drinks and alcohol)
   
• Tips and gratuities
• Expenditure of a personal nature, such as drinks, gratuities etc...

What to Bring:

Pack essentials for 8 days, including light comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities, comfortable hiking shoes. Take a small day pack for walking, hiking and trekking.

It is essential to bring your passport on this trip. We also recommend packing: towel, swimsuit, personal articles, insect repellent, sun cream, raincoat and sun hat...

Have a great journey!!!