Meal: not included | Accommodation: in Hanoi

Arriving at Noi Bai airport in Hanoi, you’ll find our driver waiting to take you to your hotel in the city center. Time for relaxing after the journey. You’ll spend the night in Hanoi.

Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is a captivating destination that offers travelers a rich blend of history, culture, and vibrant urban life. Located in the northern part of the country, the city is known for its seamless blending of tradition with modernity, making it a must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience the heart and soul of Vietnam. Whether you're interested in history, cuisine, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, Hanoi has something for all.

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hanoi

Your day begins at 8:00 a.m. with a warm hotel pick-up, where we'll whisk you away to start your day orientating around Hanoi.

First, we'll delve into Vietnam's rich educational heritage with a visit to the prestigious Temple of Literature. Be enchanted by the beautiful architecture and tranquil gardens of this ancient university, a symbol of wisdom and intellectual achievement. Next, prepare to be captivated by the diversity of Vietnamese culture at the Museum of Ethnology. Immerse yourself in the fascinating exhibits that showcase the country's ethnic groups, their traditional customs, and colorful heritage.

After a delightful lunch tantalizing your taste buds with authentic Hanoi cuisine, in the afternoon, we continue our journey with a visit to the iconic Ho Chi Minh Complex to gain insight into the life of Vietnam's beloved leader as we explore the Presidential Palace, Stilt House, and One Pillar Pagoda.

Next, we'll immerse ourselves in Hanoi's bustling heart, the Old Quarter, navigating its charming alleys and partaking in an enticing street food tasting to savor the city's culinary delights. Finally, we'll be awed by the mesmerizing Water Puppet Show, a traditional art form that brings age-old tales to life. Back to your hotel before sunset time.

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: on board the Treasure Junk

8:00 to 8:30 am we will pick you up at your hotel and leave on our shuttle bus for a 3.5-hour drive to Halong City. 

Upon arrival, we'll board the Treasure Junk for a delightful cruise through Halong Bay, savoring a delicious seafood lunch (vegetarian and kid's options available). After lunch, take it easy and soak in the breathtaking scenery of limestone formations rising from the emerald water. Our first stop awaits at the convergence of Halong and Bai Tu Long waters, where you'll have the chance to paddle through the bay with our kayaks. As the sun sets, enjoy a cocktail on board while we sail to our night anchorage spot. Dinner will be served indoors or outdoors, depending on the weather. You'll spend the night in our comfortable, air-conditioned cabins with en-suite bathrooms aboard the Treasure.

Note: On our way to Halong, we will stop at a place with food, beverages, and souvenirs for sale. Please bear in mind that we are not trying to incite you to buy any product. This is just the only place on the way with proper facilities that our travelers, guides, and drivers can use without being forced to buy anything. Thanks for your understanding.

Meal: breakfast, lunch, dinner | Accommodation: in Phong Nha

Awaken to the serene misty bay at 6:30 a.m., where coffee, tea, and cakes await. You can choose to energize your body, mind, and soul with a 30-minute Tai Chi session led by our onboard master or simply bask in the sun with coffee. Later, embark on a bamboo boat to explore a secluded floating village, meandering through floating houses and rowing boats serving various purposes. Returning to the Treasure before 9:00 am, we'll cruise back to the pier, followed by a brunch at 9:30. As we bid farewell to the majestic rocks guarding the kingdom, we'll head to the pier and get a transfer back to Hanoi by our shuttle bus. 

You'll have free time until our driver arrives to take you to Hanoi airport for your flight to Dong Hoi. Upon arrival in Dong Hoi, our driver will meet you at the airport and transfer you to Phong Nha for your overnight accommodation. 

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Phong Nha

At 8:30 AM, we'll be ready for a team meeting and get some outline of the trip details and safety briefing. We'll then set off for a 1-hour transfer by van to the trailhead and start our trekking through the Phong Nha jungle to Elephant Cave. Upon completing the most difficult 20 minutes of the trek you will be rewarded with the magnificent sight of a 60-meter-high, 300-meter-long Elephant cave.

Afterward, we'll journey to the pristine Ma Da Lake, where you can take a refreshing dip in its crystal waters and savor a delicious BBQ lunch by your porter (vegetarian can be catered for).  After lunch, the adventure continues as we trek to the captivating Tra Ang Cave where we have a chance to dive into the depths of this 600-meter cave and discover its secrets. We'll make our way back to Ho Chi Minh Road around 5:00 PM and toast to our remarkable journey with cold drinks. We'll go back to your hotel before sunset.

Fitness Level: Moderate, including 9 km trekking and 600m swimming

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hue

Around 9:00, our driver will arrive at your hotel to take you on a self-guided visit to the Paradise Cave. Discovered in 2005, this remarkable cave spans an astounding 31.4 kilometers in length, ranking among the most extensive caves in Asia. The cave is equipped with 1km walkways allowing visitors to appreciate its mesmerizing stalactites and stalagmites.

After the cave, our journey heads southward to Hue with a stop at the remarkable Vinh Moc Tunnels. Built in secrecy between 1966 and 1967, these tunnels served as bomb shelters primarily for civilians. Life thrived underground during bombing raids, with children attending school, women giving birth, and families even watching movies. The tunnels stand as a remarkable testament to human labor, engineering, and determination.

Arrive in Hue in the late afternoon, hotel check-in, and spend the night at your leisure.

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hue

8:00 - pick up from your hotel, your exploration begins with a scenic boat trip along the serene Perfume River, leading you to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a symbol of the city's historical significance dating back to the 17th century. Following this, a comfortable car transfer will take you to the Imperial Citadel, where you'll stroll along the ancient ramparts and delve into the intriguing relics nestled within. Savor the flavors of Hue during a delectable lunch at a local restaurant, where you'll indulge in the city's specialty dishes. 

In the afternoon, the exploration continues with a visit to the majestic Minh Mang Tomb, showcasing the grandeur of imperial architecture. Wrap up your day by visiting a delightful garden house in Thuy Bieu village, offering you the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing tea break with the welcoming host and engage in any questions you may have.

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hoi An.

9:00 am - depart from your hotel to Danang via the awe-inspiring Hai Van Pass. Get ready to go through a truly beautiful coastal road! The views from the top are simply excellent; we should be able to see Lang Co beach, the Laguna far below, and Danang spreading out in the south. We will understand why this is considered the prettiest road in the country. 

Once in Danang, we will have time to make a stop en route at the Marble Mountains before settling down at our address in Hoi An.

In the afternoon, we discover the enchanting beauty of Hoi An's Old Town on foot. Strolling through the ancient streets, you'll be captivated by the significant architecture that has earned Hoi An a UNESCO World Heritage status. Our guide will regale you with captivating tales and historical anecdotes, allowing you to truly appreciate the charm of this historic gem.

A visit to Hoi An is incomplete without trying one of the city's delectable street foods. We’ll take you to a local spot where you can relish the mouthwatering flavors of Vietnam, and choose a savory delicacy or a sweet treat that will tantalize your taste buds.

Meal: breakfast | Accommodation: in Hoi An.

Today we will explore the picturesque Hoi An countryside in a vintage Army Jeep, Our adventure begins with a hotel pickup at 8:30 AM, and as you ride in the open-air Jeep, you'll immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and fragrances of this picturesque landscape. Along the way, we'll pause at a local home to explore the intricate world of traditional handicrafts, providing a deeper understanding of the region's rich cultural heritage. You'll also have the opportunity to navigate the tranquil mangrove forest in a bamboo basket boat. To conclude our unforgettable day, a scenic boat ride along the river awaits, ensuring you leave with cherished memories before returning to your hotel.

Meal: breakfast | Accommodation: in Siem Reap

Savor your free time at your own pace until our driver comes to bring you to Danang airport, where your flight to Siem Reap awaits. 

Upon landing in Siem Reap, our dedicated guide will be on hand to warmly welcome you at the airport and provide a transfer to your hotel. After check-in, the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy as you please, giving you the freedom to explore this fascinating destination at your leisure.

Meal: breakfast | Accommodation: in Siem Reap

We begin our day by rising early to visit Ta Prohm, an abandoned temple overtaken by nature. As we explore its unique atmosphere, we witness the tree roots slowly engulfing the surviving stones, symbolizing the clash between human creations and the relentless forces of nature. Next, we continue to the impressive pyramid of Takeo, one of the tallest temples in Angkor. Though construction was never completed, speculation surrounds the reasons, ranging from a lightning strike during its building to the challenging task of carving durable sandstone. We also have the option to see the remnants of an ancient Angkorian bridge and visit the smaller temples of Chau Sey Devada and Thommanon.

In the afternoon, we travel through the traditional village of Preah Dak to the restored 12th-century temple of Banteay Samre. Noteworthy for its use of laterite in the roofed corridors due to limited sandstone availability, this temple showcases exceptional carvings above the inner doors. Continuing north, we reach Banteay Srei, an exquisite pink temple renowned as Angkor's ultimate art gallery. Its elaborate carvings, considered too fine for male craftsmanship, have captivated visitors for centuries. While its origins were thought to be from a later period, inscriptions suggest it was built in 967 by a Brahman, representing a pinnacle in Khmer sculpture.

Meal: breakfast | Accommodation: in Siem Reap

We rise at dawn to embark on our journey to the majestic Angkor Wat, the largest religious building in the world. This 12th-century temple, a symbol of Khmer pride and strength, captivates with its perfect blend of symbolism and symmetry. Exploring the intricate bas-reliefs that stretch for nearly a kilometer, we unravel the tales of Hindu mythology and the glories of the Khmer empire. Ascending to the upper levels of the sanctuary, we experience the steep final steps leading to the sacred heart of Angkor Wat, where spirituality and symmetry converge in an awe-inspiring manner.

In the afternoon, we venture into the immense walled city of Angkor Thom, an architectural masterpiece by King Jayavarman VII. With its staggering scale, the city leaves us in awe as we approach its gates. The causeway adorned with a captivating bridge depicting the Churning of the Ocean of Milk sets the stage for our exploration. We begin at the Terrace of the Leper King, originally thought to represent a leprous ruler but now believed to depict Yama, the god of death. Continuing along the Terrace of Elephants, once a grand viewing gallery, we reach the resplendent Baphuon temple, meticulously restored and open to visitors. Our ultimate highlight is the enchanting Bayon temple, located at the center of Angkor Thom. Its iconic 54 towers, crowned with the serene faces of Avalokiteshvara, exude both power and compassion. We unravel the mysteries of the bas-reliefs, portraying ancient battles and snapshots of everyday life during the Angkor period, before embarking on a climb upward.

Meal: breakfast | Accommodation: in Luang Prabang

Enjoy a leisurely morning at your own pace before embarking on the next leg of your journey. Our driver will ensure you reach Siem Reap airport in a good time for boarding your flight to the enchanting city of Luang Prabang. 

Upon your arrival at Luang Prabang Airport, our local guide will be waiting to warmly welcome and bring you to a centrally located hotel, marking the beginning of your memorable stay in this captivating city.

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Luang Prabang

We will kick off the day by immersing ourselves in the local culture at the vibrant Morning Market. Afterward, we'll explore the exquisite Wat Mai temple, known for its stunning architecture and intricate details. Next, we'll take a step back in time as we visit the Former King's Palace, a majestic testament to Laos' royal history. Our morning adventure concludes with a visit to the iconic Wat Xieng Thong, a masterpiece of Lao temple architecture. 

After a delicious local lunch, we have two fantastic options for you to choose from. For those interested in the history of the region, the UXO Visitor's Centre provides a poignant insight into the legacy of unexploded ordnance in Laos. Alternatively, if you prefer to immerse yourself in the world of textiles and crafts, Ock Pop Tok offers a unique experience. Our next stop is Wat Visoun, the oldest operating temple in Luang Prabang, boasting a fascinating blend of architectural styles. Finally, we'll wrap up our day at the Traditional Art and Ethnology Centre, where we'll learn about the diverse ethnic groups of Laos and their rich cultural heritage. 

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Luang Prabang

For early risers, there is a very special dawn visit to watch the monks collecting alms. As the sun begins to rise, long lines of orange-robed monks leave their pagodas and walk barefoot down the streets collecting offerings from Luang Prabang residents.

In the morning, we venture outside of Luang Prabang to visit the breathtaking Kuang Si Waterfall. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the well-maintained trails and take a refreshing dip in the inviting natural pools or simply unwind amidst nature's beauty. There’s also an opportunity to visit the nearby Bear Sanctuary, where you can observe and learn about the conservation efforts dedicated to protecting and rehabilitating endangered Asiatic black bears. Witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges they face and the importance of preserving their species.

In the afternoon, embark on a scenic boat cruise along the Mekong River to the renowned Pak Ou Caves. Discover these ancient limestone caves that house thousands of Buddhist statues, offering a glimpse into the spiritual beliefs and traditions of Laos. Admire the intricately carved sculptures and absorb the spiritual ambiance as you explore the dimly lit chambers. Back to Luang Prabang in the late afternoon. End of our service.

Meal: breakfast | Accommodation: not included

Time will be on your own until our driver arrives and takes you to Luang Prabang airport, at a good time for boarding your departure flight. End of our service.

Suggestion for an extension 

For those who are searching for a hide-away extension from Luang Prabang, we would highly recommend the Nam Kat Yorla Pa Resort (www.namkatyorlapa.com). About 2 hours by train from Luang Prabang, this hidden gem offers an unparalleled retreat into nature's embrace. Surrounded by lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and majestic mountains, the resort promises an experience of untamed beauty. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings as you explore the local villages, interact with the warm-hearted hill tribes, and engage in thrilling activities like zip-lining through the treetops. Please contact our travel consultancy for the best planning.