Northern Vietnam Tour 11 days: Northeast Trail & Halong
Overview
Welcome to our Northern Vietnam Tour 11 Days: The Essence of the North, an unforgettable journey through the spectacular mountains, valleys, ethnic villages, lakes, waterfalls, and limestone landscapes of Northern Vietnam.
Starting in Hanoi, this adventure takes you far beyond the usual tourist routes to discover the authentic beauty of the northern highlands. Travel through Thai Nguyen and Ha Giang, where dramatic mountain passes and breathtaking valleys await. Continue to Dong Van, Meo Vac, and Bao Lac, home to diverse ethnic communities and some of Vietnam’s most impressive mountain scenery.
The journey then leads to the tranquil waters of Ba Be Lake, the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall, and the historic border region of Cao Bang and Lang Son. Finally, cruise among the iconic limestone karsts of Halong Bay before returning to Hanoi.
Combining spectacular landscapes, authentic local cultures, outdoor adventures, and a relaxing Halong Bay cruise, this tour is perfect for travelers seeking to experience the wild and authentic side of Northern Vietnam.
Highlights
- Explore Ha Giang, one of Vietnam’s most spectacular mountain regions, with winding roads, dramatic valleys, and breathtaking panoramic views.
- Discover Dong Van & Meo Vac, home to rugged limestone mountains and diverse ethnic communities living in traditional villages.
- Experience the Ma Pi Leng Pass, one of the most impressive mountain passes in Vietnam, offering spectacular views over the Nho Que River valley.
- Visit Ba Be Lake, Vietnam’s largest natural freshwater lake, surrounded by lush forests, limestone mountains, and peaceful ethnic villages.
- Admire Ban Gioc Waterfall, one of Vietnam’s most spectacular waterfalls, located on the border between Vietnam and China.
- Discover Cao Bang & Lang Son, regions rich in natural beauty, local culture, and fascinating history.
- Experience authentic local life by visiting ethnic villages and discovering the traditional lifestyles and cultures of Northern Vietnam.
- Cruise through Halong Bay, sailing among thousands of magnificent limestone islands and karst formations rising from the emerald waters.
- Enjoy the best of Northern Vietnam, combining mountain adventures, cultural encounters, natural wonders, and a relaxing Halong Bay cruise in one unforgettable journey.

Itinerary
Upon arrival at Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport and transfer to hotel for check in.In the late afternoon we will take a short tour by cyclo tour in the Old Quarter. The remaining time would be spent at your own pleasure. Overnight at the hotel in Hanoi
Meal: N.A
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
Morning after breakfast, leaving Hanoi we set off on a full day journey through Tuyen Quang and Bach Quang to Ha Giang Town. The rough but scenic route traverses a dense jungle before crossing valley, rice field. Along the way we may encounter the Nung Ing, Tay, Red Dao, Dao Ao Dai, La Chi and Co Lao, just some of the many hill tribe groups who have settled there. Overnight at the hotel in Ha Giang
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Ha Giang
The remote region of Dong Van and Meo Vac is a land of rugged mountains and beautiful hill villages which are unchanged for centuries. Today we head North West out of Ha Giang Town towards this northernmost tip of Vietnam. The former H'mong royal house at Sa Phin is a primary attraction of the region but the blend of hill tribe people's colorful costumes and the majestic mountainous scenery make this long and bumpy trip an unforgettable experience. Overnight at the hotel in Dong Van.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Dong Van
The ethnic minority people are frequently seen in this hill town and small vendors along the street sell local textiles and handicraft. We have time to visit Dong Van Town before continuing to Meo Vac which is conquered by the Lo Lo and Pu Peo ethnic minority people. They still retain their age old cultural traditions and are recognizably distinct from each other by their dress. The remoteness and the simple lifestyle of local people are a highlight of Meo Vac although conditions are very basic.
Come to Bao Lac and overnight.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Bao La
An early morning departure through remote towns, rolling hills and picturesque scenery will bring you to Ba Be National Park. The road is very bumpy and winding; however, it is interesting to meet the Hmong, Dao, Tay and Nung ethnic minorities in colorful costumes working on the terraces along the way. It is memorable to travel through this little-visited region with unspoilt scenery in your own vehicle. On arrival in Ba Be in late afternoon, we check in and enjoy the evening at our own leisure. Overnight in Ba Be.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Ba Be
The legendary lake of Ba Be is just one continuous water body although the name means" three lakes". Today we embark on a boat cruising down the Nang River which is the main water source of the lake. This exciting river trip will give us a taste of the tranquil countryside and an enjoyable exploration of the Ba Be National Park. We traverse en route the Poong Grotto before stopping at some nearby hill tribe villages and getting off the beaten track to the scenic Dau Dang Waterfalls. Afternoon drive to Cao Bang. Overnight at hotel in Cao Bang.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Cao Bang
Depart Cao Bang to Ban Doc Waterfall and enjoy the very nice scenery with water reeling handmade by the Nung People, which brings water from the stream to the rice fields. Peaceful feeling will let you comfortable. Short trek to visit Ngam Ngao Cave, a big and yet unexplored cave with extraordinary natural stalactites (please wear appropriate shoes and shorts, since you most likely will get wet). Continue to Ban Doc Waterfall, which shares the river border with China. Take a boat trip to the waterfall, where you will meet visitors from China, who also come here to enjoy the atmosphere of the famous waterfall on the same river. Return to Cao Bang. Overnight at the hotel in Cao Bang.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Cao Bang
This morning, drive covers 150 km to Lang Son on the Chinese border. This town has become a booming trading town since the normalization of relations between China and Vietnam in the early 1990's. After lunch we go to visit Nhi Thanh Cave, Tam Thanh Pagoda and the Dong Kinh market, the biggest market in the area fully stocked with Chinese goods. Overnight at the hotel in Lang Son.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Lang Son
Drive to Halong bay through the lush area. Arrival Halong bay pier and check-in registration, board our boat for a stunning cruise amongst towering limestone backdrop while enjoying lunch on board. The cruise will take you by exotic islets with shapes of Dog, Incense Urn, Sail, Fighting Cocks, which are naturally formed by process of erosion between the see water and lime ston mountains. Arrive Surprise Cave and explore the by bay kayak, paddle to Luon cave, this cave is a natural tunnel thrusts through a mountain's foot and leads to an exotic lagoon surrounded by mountains covered by dense jungle. Seafood dinner and optional night paddle. Overnight on Halong Junk.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: On cruise
Rising to the tranquil beauty of the bay we have time for an early morning dip with joys and emotions for watching sunrise on sea. This morning we continue to move around the bay to find more secluded areas. Brunch will be served onboard. The junk will be near us at all times serving as a back up vessel for those that require it. At around midday we will return to the main harbor before transferring to our awaiting vehicle for a 3-hour journey to Hanoi. Overnight at the hotel in Hanoi.
Note:
- Due to operation or weather conditions, itineraries and food may change without prior notice.
- Itinerary in Halong Bay is difference between cruises
Meal: Breakfast, Brunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Ha Noi
Time free until pick up and transfer to airport for your flight back home. End of the Asia King Travel’s service. Thank you for choosing our Northern Vietnam Tour 11 days!
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: N/A
Price
| Low season ( From 1st May, 2026 to 30th Sep, 2026 ) | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost in USD per person based on private tour | ||||||
| Class/No of per | 1 | 2 | 3 - 4 | 5 - 7 | 8 - 10 | Single Sup |
| Superior |
USD
2,704
|
USD
1,805
|
USD
1,506
|
USD
1,203
|
USD
1,070
|
USD
274
|
| First class |
USD
2,828
|
USD
1,929
|
USD
1,630
|
USD
1,326
|
USD
1,194
|
USD
366
|
| Deluxe |
USD
3,026
|
USD
2,127
|
USD
1,828
|
USD
1,525
|
USD
1,392
|
USD
565
|
| High season ( From 1st Oct, 2026 to 30th Apr, 2027 ) | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost in USD per person based on private tour | ||||||
| Class/No of per | 1 | 2 | 3 - 4 | 5 - 7 | 8 - 10 | Single Sup |
| Superior |
USD
2,753
|
USD
1,817
|
USD
1,505
|
USD
1,189
|
USD
1,051
|
USD
290
|
| First class |
USD
2,902
|
USD
1,966
|
USD
1,654
|
USD
1,338
|
USD
1,200
|
USD
405
|
| Deluxe |
USD
3,083
|
USD
2,147
|
USD
1,835
|
USD
1,519
|
USD
1,381
|
USD
591
|
| Low season ( From 1st May, 2027 to 30th Sep, 2027 ) | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost in USD per person based on private tour | ||||||
| Class/No of per | 1 | 2 | 3 - 4 | 5 - 7 | 8 - 10 | Single Sup |
| Superior |
USD
2,962
|
USD
1,951
|
USD
1,614
|
USD
1,273
|
USD
1,124
|
USD
305
|
| First class |
USD
3,093
|
USD
2,082
|
USD
1,745
|
USD
1,404
|
USD
1,255
|
USD
401
|
| Deluxe |
USD
3,319
|
USD
2,308
|
USD
1,972
|
USD
1,631
|
USD
1,481
|
USD
628
|
| High season ( From 1st Oct, 2027 to 31st Dec, 2027 ) | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost in USD per person based on private tour | ||||||
| Class/No of per | 1 | 2 | 3 - 4 | 5 - 7 | 8 - 10 | Single Sup |
| Superior |
USD
3,039
|
USD
2,006
|
USD
1,662
|
USD
1,313
|
USD
1,161
|
USD
320
|
| First class |
USD
3,204
|
USD
2,170
|
USD
1,826
|
USD
1,477
|
USD
1,325
|
USD
447
|
| Deluxe |
USD
3,403
|
USD
2,370
|
USD
2,026
|
USD
1,677
|
USD
1,525
|
USD
652
|
| Location | Name | Room Type | Website / Tripadvisor link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ha Noi |
CHALCEDONY HOTEL
|
Deluxe city view | www.chalcedonyhotel.com |
| Ha Noi |
Hanoi Pearl Hotel
|
Deluxe city view | http://www.hanoipearlhotel.com/ |
| Ha Noi |
GM Premium Hotel Hanoi
|
Executive City view | https://gmpremiumhotel.com/ |
| Cao Bang |
Bao Lac Homestay & Trekking Tour
|
Standard | |
| Cao Bang |
MAX BOUTIQUE HOTEL CAO BANG
|
Deluxe | maxboutiquehotel.com |
| Cao Bang |
MUONG THANH LUXURY CAO BANG HOTEL
|
Deluxe | http://luxurycaobang.muongthanh.vn/ |
| Cao Bang |
MAX BOUTIQUE HOTEL CAO BANG
|
Executive Room | maxboutiquehotel.com |
| Ba Be Lake |
Ba Be Lake View Homestay
|
Standard | |
| Ba Be Lake |
Ba Be Lake View Homestay
|
Deluxe | |
| Ba Be Lake |
Ba Be Lake View Homestay
|
Family Room | |
| Ha Giang |
H’MONG VILLAGE
|
Standard | |
| Ha Giang |
Phoenix hotel
|
Superior | |
| Ha Giang |
H’MONG VILLAGE
|
Double Bungalow | |
| Dong Van |
Hoa Cuong Hotel
|
Standard | |
| Lang Son |
Muong Thanh Lang Son
|
Deluxe | www.langson.muongthanh.vn |
| Lang Son |
Muong Thanh Lang Son
|
Deluxe Suite | www.langson.muongthanh.vn |
| Lang Son |
Muong Thanh Lang Son
|
Executive Suite | www.langson.muongthanh.vn |
| Ha Long Bay |
RENEA CRUISE
|
Deluxe | http://reneacruiseshalong.com |
| Ha Long Bay |
PEONY CRUISES
|
Deluxe Balcony | https://www.asiakingtravel.com/cruise/peony-cruise |
| Ha Long Bay |
AMBASSADOR CRUISE
|
Deluxe cruise I | www.ambassadorcruise.com |
Trip notes
Tour includes:
- Accommodation based on twin/double sharing room with breakfast
- 2Days/1Night cruise on board a cruise in Ha Long Bay (double/twin cabin on shared boat).
- English speaking guide as guided time
- Meals as indicated (B = Breakfast; L = Lunch; D = Dinner)
- All transfers with the air-conditioned private vehicle
- All entrance fees
- Water cool towels
Tour excludes:
- Visa service
- Tipping and Personal expenses
- Travel Insurance
- Domestic & International flight
- All international airport tax
- Airport transfer surcharge for guide between 10:00 pm to 6:30 am is 15 USD/way.
- Surcharge fees (tour guide, transfer, hotel…) for public holidays like: New Year Period, Christmas Holiday, Lunar New Year…
- Compulsory Gala dinners on Dec 24 and 31
- Early check-in and Late check-out (Check-in time is 14h00 & check-out is 12h00)
- Compulsory TIPPING for local guide and van driver:
- Group size 1-5 pax: 5-6 USD/person/day for guide, 3-4 USD for driver
- Group size 5-10 pax: 4-5 USD/person/day for guide, 2-3 USD for driver
- Group size 11-20 pax: 2-3 USD/person/day for guide, 1 USD for driver
- Suggested TIPPING for bellboy, boat crew, sampan driver: depend your budget.
Customer Reviews
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