Embark on an unforgettable journey through Vietnam’s majestic northern landscapes. From the vibrant streets of Hanoi to the misty terraces of Sapa, continue deep into Ha Giang and Meo Vac commune, where winding passes and rugged mountains showcase awe-inspiring beauty. Discover the breathtaking Ban Gioc Waterfall and mystical Nguom Ngao Cave in Cao Bang, before unwinding in the tranquil wilderness of Ba Be National Park. Blending nature, culture, and adventure, this 12-day expedition reveals the true grandeur of Northern Vietnam.
Cities: Sapa - Ha Giang - Meo Vac - Cao Bang - Ban Gioc Waterfall - Ba Be Lake
Upon your arrival at Hanoi International Airport, look for our driver who will be waiting for you with a sign bearing your name. The journey from the airport to your hotel will take approximately one hour and is an entertaining experience full of chaotic traffic, hectic architecture, and overloaded motorbikes.
Cap off the day with a free walk through the Old Quarter, also known as the 36 streets. This bustling area of narrow streets is home to thousands of small businesses and shopkeepers.
07:00: Our driver will pick you up at your hotel and depart for Sapa (5.5 hours) along the Noi Bai–Lao Cai highway, enjoying a beautiful drive through the breathtaking scenery of Sa Pa Valley to admire the rice terraces, a truly awe-inspiring sight.
Upon arrival in Sapa town, you will meet your local guide, who will escort you to a local restaurant for lunch.
Afterward, visit Sin Chai Village, which is occupied by the Black Hmong tribe. You will experience the tribal way of life of ethnic minorities while enjoying wonderful views of the terraced rice paddy fields. Visitors will also understand the culture, unique customs, and traditional crafts such as weaving, touching carved silver, forging agricultural tools, etc.
Back to Sapa town to check in at your hotel and relax.
Inclusions: Private Transportation. Private Tour Guide. Tour activities.
After breakfast, take the Muong Hoa Mountain Train. Sit back for the five-minute ride over the valley, taking in spectacular vistas of farms and hamlets below. This funicular railway is the longest of its kind in Vietnam and crosses two tunnels and four viaducts. Then, taking a cable car to the highest mountain in Vietnam and in Indochina, reaching an elevation of 3,143 meters above sea level, Fansipan Peak offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys, verdant forests, and traditional hill villages.
Back to Sapa town for a local lunch.
The day is devoted to a beautiful drive through the breathtaking scenery of Sa Pa valley to admire the rice terraces, a truly awe-inspiring sight.
Follow a small track and cross Muong Hoa River and pass well-tended rice terraces on your way to the Black Hmong village of Lao Chai. Continuing through the colorful rice terraces, you will reach the village of Ta Van.
Afterwards, we will walk to a road where the car is ready for your journey back to Sapa.
Inclusions: Private Transportation. Private Tour Guide. Tour activities.
This photo is about Sapa Vietnam by New Asia Tours travel agency at www.newasiatours.com
Enjoy a peaceful morning in Sapa and have breakfast at your hotel. After check-out, begin your scenic 5-hour drive to Ha Giang City. Along the way, there will be several stops for you to capture the breathtaking landscapes of the region.
Upon arrival in Ha Giang, check into your hotel and take some time to relax and unwind after the journey.
Distance: 230km.
Inclusions: Private Transportation. Private Tour Guide. Tour activities.
8:00 AM: After breakfast, begin your journey toward Quan Ba, where you’ll visit the famous Quan Ba Heaven Gate—a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Stop at the lookout to admire the iconic Twin Mountains (also known as “Fairy Breasts Mountain”), a natural wonder and cultural symbol of the region.
Continue driving toward Yen Minh, passing through the impressive Tham Ma Pass. This mountain pass, about 5 km long and sitting at 1,500 meters above sea level, winds sharply through the landscape in an S-shaped curve. The pass is located between the villages of Lung Thau and Van Chai, approximately 10 km from Yen Minh.
Next, visit Pao’s House, the filming location for the famous 2006 Vietnamese movie Pao’s Story, directed by Do Thanh Hai. The house, over 100 years old, remains a beautiful example of Hmong architecture and culture, offering insight into local life.
Continue on to the historic King’s House, also known as the Vuong Family Mansion or Meo King’s Palace. This nearly century-old mansion is a unique architectural site that reflects the wealth and influence of the Vuong family, who once ruled this part of Ha Giang. A must-visit destination for those exploring the region’s heritage.
Finally, arrive at the Lung Cu Flag Tower, located at Vietnam’s northernmost point. This iconic tower, flying the red and yellow Vietnamese flag, stands as a powerful symbol of national pride and unity. The best times to visit are from March to May or September to November, when the weather is clear and mild. From the tower, enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and neighboring villages, making it a memorable end to your day.
Distance: 160km
Inclusions: Private Transportation. Private Tour Guide. Tour activities.
Today, you will journey to the legendary Ma Pi Leng Pass—one of the most breathtaking and adventurous mountain passes in northern Vietnam. Though not long in distance, the pass is famed for its dramatic scenery and steep, winding roads carved into the mountainside. Along the way, your driver will stop at the Skypath, where you’ll embark on a 4–6 km hike with your tour guide. This scenic trail offers panoramic views of the rugged landscape and is one of the best ways to appreciate the grandeur of Ma Pi Leng fully.
At the summit, you’ll reach the “Happiness Road”, marked by a stone stele commemorating the effort and sacrifice involved in its construction. The views from here are truly unforgettable: to the north and northeast, a sea of jagged grey mountains stretches endlessly toward the horizon. On one side of the road lies a deep abyss; below, the emerald-green Nho Que River winds its way through the canyon. If the weather permits, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a boat ride on the Nho Que River, offering a unique perspective of the towering cliffs and tranquil waters—a truly memorable experience.
Distance: 60km.
Heading to Meo Vac for overnight
Inclusions: Private Transportation. Private Tour Guide. Tour activities.
After breakfast, get ready for a day of driving from Meo Vac to Cao Bang, which is an exhilarating journey through northern Vietnam’s rugged landscapes, offering dramatic mountain passes, winding roads, and picturesque ethnic villages.
An alternative path that takes you through Bao Lạc, offering poetic landscapes along the Gam River. From Bao Lạc, you can visit Pac Bo Cave, a significant historical site, before continuing to Cao Bằng.
Distance: 250km
Inclusions: Private Transportation. Private Tour Guide. Tour activities.
After breakfast, get ready for an exciting boat trip to Ban Gioc Waterfall, one of the largest and most spectacular waterfalls in Vietnam. Nestled in the stunning landscapes of Trung Khanh District, Ban Gioc Waterfall spans over 300 meters and straddles the border between Vietnam and China. You’ll have time to soak in the breathtaking scenery and atmosphere—an ideal spot for capturing some fantastic photos.
Next, visit the Phat Tich Truc Lam Ban Gioc Pagoda, the first Buddhist pagoda ever built in Cao Bang Province. Located in Dam Thuy Commune, just 500 meters from the waterfall, the pagoda sits on a 3-hectare site against the backdrop of Phia Nham Mountain. From here, you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of Ban Gioc Waterfall, surrounded by rice paddies and dramatic mountain ranges.
Visit Nguom Ngao cave, which is a must-see place once you arrive in Cao Bang. The cave of 300 million years old, is a valuable gift of nature to this wonderful land. Tourists explore Nguom Ngao cave for its mysterious space created by marvelous stalactites on one side and an interesting legend behind the special name. The cave has a total length of nearly 2200m with three gates and thousands of small grottos.Inclusions: Transportation. Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner. Entrance Fees. English Speaking Guide.
After breakfast at your hotel, get ready for the journey to Ba Be Lake. Along the way, your tour guide will arrange a short break for a walk to stretch your legs and enjoy the surroundings.
Phong Nam Valley (located in Phong Nam Commune, Trung Khanh District, Cao Bang Province) is one of the most captivating destinations in Vietnam’s Northeast region, renowned for its pristine natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. This valley features golden rice fields during harvest season, the gentle, winding Quay Son River, majestic mountain ranges, and a surrounding landscape.
Beyond its scenic beauty, visitors have the opportunity to gain deeper insight into the local Tay ethnic culture, experiencing the rustic lifestyle that’s closely tied to the mountains, forests, and farmlands of the region.
Stop at God’s Eye Mountain, also known as Phja Piót (meaning “pierced mountain”) or Núi Thủng (“Pierced Mountain”), is a unique natural landmark located within Cao Bang Geopark. This majestic mountain is distinguished by a large, perfectly round hole piercing through its body, creating a spectacular and almost mystical sight—especially when the morning sunlight shines through the “eye.”
Drive to Ba Be Lake, one of Vietnam’s most beautiful and serene national parks. Arrive at Ba Be Lake and check into a bungalow near the lake. Have a local dinner and relax for the evening.
Your day begins with a guided trek through the breathtaking landscapes of Ba Be National Park. First, you’ll visit Coc Toc Village, home to the Tay people who rely on traditional fishing methods in the lake for their livelihood. From there, you’ll cross Pelu Stream and tackle some challenging terrain. As you ascend, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lush valleys.
Continuing deeper into the uplands, you’ll stop at a H’mong ethnic village for a scenic picnic lunch, enjoying both the food and the culture. In the afternoon, your guide will lead you through remote mountain ranges and valleys, where you’ll see the distinctive stilt houses and local school of the Dzao people. The journey continues with a visit to another H’mong village, offering more insight into the diverse ethnic communities of the region.
After a full day of exploration, you’ll return to your homestay, completing a memorable circuit through this stunning national.
After breakfast at your hotel, get ready for the journey back to Hanoi. Along the way, your tour guide will arrange a short stop for a walk to stretch your legs and enjoy the surroundings. You are expected to arrive in Hanoi around 5:00 PM.
Inclusions: Transportation. Breakfast. Lunch. English Speaking Guide.
I just got back from an amazing trip, and I owe it all to Mary Duong! From the very start, Mary made the planning process so easy and enjoyable. She really took the time to get to know what I was looking for and put together a fantastic itinerary that perfectly matched my interests.
Her recommendations were spot on—every hotel, restaurant, and activity was a hit! I loved how she included some hidden gems that I would have never found on my own. Mary was always available to answer my questions and offer tips, which made me feel so supported throughout the trip.
If you’re looking for someone who genuinely cares and knows the ins and outs of travel, Mary is your go-to person. I can’t recommend her enough! Thanks, Mary, for making my trip unforgettable!
Overnight at the Hanoi hotel
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