Embark on an unforgettable 10-day eco-tourism journey through the hidden gems of North Vietnam, designed for travelers seeking authentic, sustainable experiences away from the crowds. Unlike traditional Northern Vietnam tours, this tour immerses you in the region’s pristine natural landscapes, ethnic minority cultures, and eco-friendly activities. You’ll begin in the bustling yet charming capital of Hanoi, then cruise through the iconic emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with limestone karsts and hidden caves. From there, venture to Ninh Binh, often called “Ha Long Bay on land,” where dramatic karst mountains rise from lush rice paddies, offering serene boat rides, cave explorations, and countryside cycling.
As the adventure deepens, you’ll head to Pu Luong Nature Reserve, a biodiversity hotspot with terraced rice fields, cascading waterfalls, and traditional Thai ethnic villages. Here, sustainable tourism shines through gentle hikes, homestays in eco-lodges, and interactions with local communities practicing age-old farming techniques. The journey continues to Mai Chau Valley, surrounded by mist-shrouded mountains, where you’ll cycle through verdant valleys, visit stilt houses, and engage in cultural exchanges with White Thai people. This tour emphasizes slow travel, minimizing environmental impact with private eco-transfers, locally sourced meals, and activities that support conservation efforts.
Highlights include kayaking in secluded bays, hands-on buffalo experiences in rural Ninh Binh, and relaxed walks amid Pu Luong’s untouched forests. Perfect for nature lovers, families, or eco-conscious adventurers, this eco-tourism journey in the North Vietnam promotes mindfulness and connection: witnessing sunrises over rice terraces, savoring organic Vietnamese cuisine, and learning about sustainable practices. With comfortable accommodations, English-speaking guides, and all-inclusive elements like entrance fees and most meals, you’ll return refreshed, inspired, and with a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s natural heritage.
After your flight lands in Hanoi, our representative will greet you warmly at the airport and transfer you privately to a comfortable hotel in the heart of the city.
Take the afternoon at your leisure to shake off any jet lag. You can stroll through the lively Old Quarter with its tree-lined streets, colorful markets, and colonial architecture. Savor a cup of Vietnamese coffee at a sidewalk cafe, watching locals zip by on scooters, or simply relax in your room overlooking the urban buzz.
Visit Hanoi train street coffees.
This gentle start sets the tone for a restorative eco-journey, allowing you to acclimate to the tropical climate and vibrant energy of Vietnam’s capital.
Night in Hanoi.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before a scenic private drive eastward to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its dramatic limestone islands rising from jade-green waters.
Upon arrival at the harbor, board your overnight cruise ship, where you’ll be welcomed with refreshing drinks as the vessel sets sail into the bay’s mesmerizing seascape.
Sunset on Ha Long Bay.
Spend the afternoon engaging in eco-friendly activities like kayaking through hidden lagoons, exploring mystical caves adorned with stalactites, or lounging on the sundeck to absorb the tranquil views of floating fishing villages and soaring karsts. As the sun dips low, enjoy a delicious dinner featuring fresh seafood, fostering a sense of peace amid nature’s grandeur.
Overnight on board.
Awaken to the serene dawn light filtering through the bay, perhaps joining a optional Tai Chi session on deck for a mindful start. Savor breakfast as the cruise glides through more secluded islets, offering final glimpses of this natural wonder before disembarking around late morning.
A private transfer then takes you southward to Ninh Binh, a landscape of towering limestone peaks and verdant valleys dubbed “Ha Long Bay on land.” En route, stop for a leisurely lunch of local specialties like goat meat or fresh river fish.
Upon arrival, check into your eco-friendly accommodation nestled in the countryside, and spend the evening unwinding with a short walk to a nearby village or a relaxing herbal tea overlooking the rice fields.
Night in Ninh Binh.
Dedicate today to Ninh Binh’s iconic sites, starting with a visit to Hang Mua (Dancing Cave) after breakfast. A moderate climb up stone steps rewards you with sweeping panoramic vistas of endless rice paddies dotted with limestone monoliths, evoking a sense of timeless beauty and perfect for photography.
Hike for the panoramic view at Hang Mua.
Next, head to Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital from the 10th century, where you’ll wander through historic temples dedicated to emperors Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh, learning about early Vietnamese dynasties amid peaceful ruins surrounded by lotus ponds.
After a satisfying local lunch, embark on a serene boat journey rowed by local women in traditional hats through Trang An‘s UNESCO-listed complex. This site is a labyrinth of waterways, caves, and emerald grottoes. Glide past ancient temples and wildlife, feeling the cool mist and hearing echoes of birdsong, which inspires a profound connection to nature. Return to your hotel for a restful evening.
Night in Ninh Binh.
Immerse yourself in Ninh Binh’s rural charm today, beginning with a leisurely bicycle ride through the countryside after breakfast.
Pedal along quiet paths flanked by golden rice fields, quaint villages, and friendly locals tending to their farms, breathing in the fresh air scented with earth and herbs. Stop at small homes to observe daily life, perhaps chatting with farmers over a cup of green tea.
In the afternoon, head to Buffalo Cave for a hands-on eco-adventure: interact with gentle water buffaloes, learn traditional plowing techniques, and participate in sustainable farming activities like planting rice or harvesting vegetables. This interactive experience, set against dramatic cave backdrops is ideal for families or those seeking authentic cultural insights.
Water buffalo ride in Ninh Binh.
As the day winds down, enjoy a picnic-style lunch amid the scenery, fostering inspiration for eco-living, then return to your stay for a relaxed evening.
Night in Ninh Binh.
After breakfast, embark on a picturesque westward drive to Pu Luong Nature Reserve, a lesser-known haven of biodiversity with rolling hills, dense forests, and cascading streams.
The journey itself is a highlight, winding through mountain passes with views of terraced fields that change hues with the seasons. Arrive at your eco-lodge, built sustainably with local materials, and settle in amid the tranquil sounds of nature.
Pu Luong in harvest season.
The afternoon is yours to relax. You can take a short guided walk to nearby Thai ethnic villages, where bamboo water wheels turn lazily and children play in the streams. Here you will observe artisans weaving traditional fabrics or sample organic honey from local hives, emphasizing Pu Luong’s commitment to conservation and community support.
Night in Pu Luong.
Spend a full day gently uncovering Pu Luong’s secrets after breakfast, focusing on sustainable, low-impact activities.
Join a guided walk through vibrant terraced rice paddies, where you’ll learn about the Thai people’s organic farming methods that preserve soil and water resources. Visit remote villages to engage with welcoming locals, perhaps sharing stories around a communal fire or trying your hand at bamboo crafts. Traverse lush trails leading to hidden waterfalls for a refreshing dip, spotting exotic birds and butterflies along the way. The reserve’s untouched status ensures authentic wildlife encounters.
The houses in Kho Muong village are nestled against the mountainside.
Lunch features farm-fresh ingredients, like bamboo shoots and wild greens, prepared in traditional style. Return to your eco-lodge in the afternoon, and enjoy a peacful evening amid nature.
Night in Pu Luong.
After a nourishing breakfast, bid farewell to Pu Luong and drive to the enchanting Mai Chau Valley, encircled by emerald mountains and dotted with ethnic Thai stilt houses. Upon arrival, check into your cozy accommodation and enjoy a lunch infused with local flavors, such as sticky rice and grilled meats seasoned with mountain herbs.
Discover Thai communities in Mai Chau.
In the afternoon, hop on a bicycle for an easy ride through the valley’s patchwork of rice fields and villages, stopping to visit local weavers creating intricate textiles on wooden looms or farmers harvesting crops. Interact with residents to learn about their customs, like folk dances or rice wine making, in a setting that feels worlds away from urban hustle.
As evening falls, relax with the valley’s peaceful ambiance, perhaps stargazing from your balcony.
Night in Mai Chau.
Devote today to Mai Chau’s leisurely delights after breakfast, tailoring the pace to your energy.
You may start with a visit to a bustling local market, where vendors in colorful ethnic attire sell handmade crafts, fresh produce, and herbal remedies, perfect for souvenirs or tasting exotic fruits. Then, embark on a gentle walk through surrounding villages, admiring stilt houses elevated on bamboo poles and learning about sustainable agriculture that sustains the community. For added inspiration, join an optional cooking session with our local chef, preparing dishes like banana flower salad using ingredients from nearby gardens.
Trekking through Mai Chau’s lush valleys.
The afternoon offers more free time to soak in the scenery. You can hike to viewpoints for panoramic valley vistas or simply lounge amid the rice paddies, listening to the rustle of wind through the fields.
Night in Mai Chau.
Enjoy a final breakfast in Mai Chau’s fresh mountain air before a private transfer back to Hanoi. En route, witness landscapes shift from valleys to cityscapes.
Upon reaching Hanoi, you’ll have time depending on your flight schedule—perhaps grab last-minute street food or visit a nearby pagoda. Our driver will then escort you to the airport for your flight back to Ho Chi Minh City or onward.
This concluding day wraps up your eco-tour in Vietnam with seamless logistics. After 10 days of exploring the hidden corners of Northern Vietnam, you will return home with more than just photos—you will carry the warmth of the local people and the tranquility of the countryside. From the ancient stones of Ninh Binh to the misty peaks of Pu Luong, this journey offers a rare glimpse into the authentic heart of Vietnam.
Prices are in USD, per person.
This tour can be customized to fit your own demands. Best price and value guaranteed!
| Hotel / Group | 2 guests | 3~4 guests | 5~6 guests | 7~8 guests | 9~12 guests | Single surcharge |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Star | 1,040 | 764 | 680 | 632 | 603 | 325 |
| 4 Star | 1,128 | 852 | 768 | 720 | 691 | 405 |
– There may be cancellation fees charged by suppliers (hotels, airlines…) once these bookings are made and paid. These fee shall by paid by travelers.
– These are maximum cancellation fees to be flexible applied:
Are you interested in this tour or would you like to customize your own trip?
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