9 Days | Authentic Northern Vietnam Expedition

After breakfast, you’ll visit Lung Tam Village, home to the Flower Hmong ethnic group. Here, you’ll discover the traditional art of brocade weaving and embroidery, and learn how local women skillfully craft hemp into beautiful textiles—a vital part of their daily lives. Lung Tam is known not only for its rich cultural heritage but also for its stunning landscapes and peaceful atmosphere. The vibrant attire of the Hmong women adds even more color to this picturesque village, attracting travelers from near and far.

Continuing your journey, you’ll pass through Yen Minh and stop to explore the Palace of the H’mong King in Sa Phin Commune, Dong Van District. Built during the French colonial period, this architectural gem blends European and Chinese styles. It once belonged to the influential Vuong family, who ruled the region in the early 19th century. Vuong Duc Chinh, the family patriarch, declared himself the “King of the Hmong” and constructed this palace as a symbol of his authority.

Later, you’ll visit the ancient villages of Lao Xa and Sung La, where you can meet local Hmong and Hoa ethnic families, learn about their traditional ways of life, and admire well-preserved homes that are over 200 years old. These villages offer a truly authentic and immersive cultural experience.

Distance: 175km.

—————————

Overnight at the Dong Van homestay

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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. After the excursion, continue your transfer to Bao Lac, where you’ll spend the night in a cozy local homestay

Distance:165km.

Inclusions: Private Transportation. Private Tour Guide. Tour activities.

—————————

Overnight at Bao Lac – Cao Bang Homestay

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Please be ready after your breakfast to continue your adventure to Cao Bang. It is a long drive today. En route, stop and visit a Lo Lo village, time to interact and learn about the ethnic culture of the Lo Lo tribe. Then move to Phuc Sen forging village. In the early days, the villagers produced weapons for the soldiers of Nung Ton Phuc and Nung Tri Cao to fight against the Song army. After the war, they made farm and domestic tools such as ploughs, hoes, knives, and scissors. It is also said that the villagers used to cast cannons and grenade casings, especially during the resistance war against French colonialism. Thus, this craft village has a long tradition of forging. The incense craft of the Nung ethnic minority people in Phia Thap village is contributing to the preservation of a traditional spiritual culture. The incense-making craft of the Nung people has a long history. For Phia Thap villagers, making incense not only portrays their national identity but is also associated with the custom of burning incense in Vietnam.

Before checking into your homestay, visit Nguom Ngao cave, which is a must-see place once you arrive in Cao Bang. The 300-million-year-old cave 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.

Distance: 165km

Inclusions: Private Transportation. Private Tour Guide. Tour activities.

—————————

Overnight at Nguom Ngao, Cao Bang

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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.

Before heading to Cao Bang City, stop to visit Mat Than Mountain—also known as Holy Angel Mountain or Phja Piót in the local Tay language, meaning “the mountain with a hole.” This striking natural formation is famous for a large round hole pierced through the limestone, giving the impression that wind passes freely from one side to the other. During the dry season, nearby lakes shrink to reveal lush green plains, adding to the serene beauty of the area.

After your visit, continue to Cao Bang City to check in at your hotel and relax for the evening.

Distance: 120km

Inclusions: Private Transportation. Private Tour Guide. Tour activities.

—————————

Overnight at the Cao Bang Homestay/Hotel

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

You are expected to arrive in Hanoi around 5:00 PM. 

Distance: 280km

Inclusions: Private Transportation. Private Tour Guide. Tour activities.

—————————

Overnight at the Hanoi Hotel

Breakfast, Lunch

Today, your memorable journey, Scenic Northern Vietnam Tour 08 Days, will be completed.

We sincerely thank you for choosing to use the service that we have provided with great enthusiasm and passion.

We hope you will give us the chance to get back to the best experiences and vacations.

Thank you, and see you again. Goodbye from the heart of the Local Vietnam Adventures team