Transfer: 4h30 // Distance: ± 170 km
Walking: 6 km; 450 m positive - 100 m negative; ± 2h30-3h00
Departing from Hanoi in the morning, we take a swift southwest route towards Hoa Binh, the homeland of the Muong people. As we ascend from Hoa Binh, we cross the Muong Khen pass, skirting along the mountainside en route to Thung Nham, where we relish panoramic views. Upon descending from the massif, we're welcomed by the picturesque Mai Chau valley.
Lunch is hosted by a local Thai family in Mai Hich village. Following this, we briefly explore this renowned tourist destination and embark on a one-hour car journey to the heart of Pu Luong Nature Reserve.
At Pu Luong Retreat, a cozy mini-lodge nestled on a hillside overlooking captivating terraced rice fields, we check in reminiscent of the ambiance at Tam Coc.
In the afternoon, take a leisurely hike through stunning landscapes and ethnic villages, enjoy a serene bamboo boat ride on the Cham River, and connect with the residents.
The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay at Pu Luong Retreat.

Transfer: 4h00 // Distance: ± 130 km
Cycling: 10 km; 170 m positive - 180 m negative; ± 1h30
We venture to the southern part of the Red River Delta, specifically Ninh Binh province, renowned as the 'Halong Bay on land.'

Around noon, we arrive in Tho Ha, a charming village west of the Trang An Scenic Landscape complex, designated as a UNESCO Natural Heritage Site in 2014.
Following lunch, embark on a bicycle ride through the neighboring villages to immerse ourselves in the daily routines of locals as they tend to their ancestral fields, cultivating crops like rice, peanuts, and corn. It's a unique opportunity to observe various facets of Vietnamese life, including huts overlooking rice paddies, churches, schools, craft workshops, and small markets.
In the late afternoon, we board small paddle boats, navigating the intricate network of limestone peaks. Our journey takes us through the elongated Buddha Cave, named for the Buddha-shaped rock it houses—subsequently, our sampan glides along a meandering reed-lined stream amidst the peaks.
After a 1.5-hour boat ride, disembark at Linh Coc, and then be transferred to Nham Village. Inspired by the ancient villages of Northern Vietnam, Nham Village offers a tranquil countryside escape from the clamor of contemporary life. Check-in and have leisure time to savor the tranquil ambiance of our eco-lodge.

Transfer: 3h30 // Distance: ± 200 km
After breakfast, head to the renowned Halong Bay, often translated as "Descent of the Dragon," a name rooted in Chinese mythology where dragons ascend to the sky during the spring equinox and retreat to the ocean depths during the autumn equinox.
The journey from Tam Coc from west to east, traversing the expansive rice fields of the densely populated provinces of Nam Dinh and Thai Binh in the lower Red River Delta.
Approach the eastern foothills of the lower delta, pass through the Uong Bi coal region, arriving at Tuan Chau around noon. Here, we board a beautiful junk boat for an unforgettable cruise through the legendary Halong Bay.

Throughout the cruise, you'll marvel at the colossal and picturesque karst peaks emerging from the emerald waters. These rocky formations are adorned with crevices and concealed caves, leading to surprising lagoons. The interplay of light with the clouds and mist creates a surreal atmosphere.
Halong Bay is a bustling hub, a coal export port, home to floating villages relying on fish farming, and a workplace for squid fishermen whose boats illuminate the night. Our planned activities include exploring a cave, relaxing on a small beach, and, weather permitting, kayaking and swimming in the open sea.
In the late afternoon, the boat anchors in a designated park area for the night, and both lunch and dinner featuring excellent seafood are served on the junk.
You'll spend the night in a private cabin aboard the boat.
Overnight on board in a private cabin.

Transfer: 2h30 // Distance: ± 150 km
In Halong Bay, experiencing the dawn's early light is necessary for a serene and unique start to the day.
As the junk gracefully sails back towards the pier, a breakfast buffet is offered onboard. The return journey of the cruise may unveil previously unnoticed aspects of the bay.
We enjoy lunch onboard before disembarking. Then, transfer back to Hanoi.