The very best of northern Vietnam.
Ha Long Bay cruise
Sapa & Fansipan
Perfect for travellers with limited time who still want to experience the very best of Vietnam. This journey takes you through the highlights of the north — from the bustling streets of Hanoi and the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay to the ancient landscapes of Ninh Binh and the mountain valleys of Sapa.
Northern Vietnam is widely regarded as the most beautiful region of the country: home to spectacular mountains, rice terraces, limestone karsts and some of Vietnam’s most iconic natural wonders. It’s also the most traditional part of Vietnam, where ancient history, local cultures and centuries-old customs remain part of everyday life.
If you only have 10 days to explore Vietnam, the north offers the perfect introduction — combining breathtaking scenery, fascinating history, incredible food and authentic cultural experiences into one unforgettable journey.
Highlights
- Hanoi
- Ha Long Bay overnight cruise
- Ninh Binh & Tam Coc
- Sapa & Ta Van
- Fansipan — Indochina’s highest peak
Ten days across the north.
Arrival in Hanoi
Arrive in Hanoi, settle into the Old Quarter and meet your fellow travellers over a welcome dinner. (Dinner)
Exploring Hanoi
Discover the city’s landmarks by vintage Army Jeep and the Vietnamese Women’s Museum, ending with a Michelin-recommended dinner. (Breakfast, lunch)
Ha Long Bay
Board an overnight cruise through the UNESCO waters of Ha Long Bay, kayaking, swimming and exploring hidden caves. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Ha Long Bay to Ninh Binh
Enjoy a final morning cruise before travelling to Ninh Binh — “Ha Long Bay on Land” — and the charming town of Tam Coc. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Ancient Ninh Binh
Discover ancient Hoa Lu, the UNESCO-listed Trang An by sampan and the cliffside Bich Dong Pagoda. (Breakfast, lunch)
Journey to Sapa
Travel into the mountains to Sapa, famous for its misty rice terraces and vibrant ethnic-minority communities. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
The roof of Indochina
Visit the Hmong village of Cat Cat and ride the cable car to the summit of Fansipan, Indochina’s highest peak. (Breakfast, lunch)
Walking the rice terraces
Walk through the Muong Hoa Valley’s rice terraces and villages, ending with a valley BBQ and optional Red Dao herbal bath. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Return to Hanoi
Return to Hanoi for a final afternoon in the Old Quarter and a farewell street-food tour. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Until next time
Enjoy one last morning in Hanoi before your transfer to the airport. (Breakfast)
Everything you need. Nothing you don’t.
Included
- Meet and greet on arrival
- A South African guide fluent in Afrikaans, Vietnamese and English
- All meals as indicated
- All accommodation
- All transport to and from airports, scheduled activities and accommodation
- All scheduled activities and sightseeing entrance fees as per the itinerary
Not included
- All international flights
- Visas
- Optional extras such as spa treatments or additional activities
- Transport not part of the tour schedule, for personal use
- Drinks
- Telephone, laundry and items of a personal nature
- Comprehensive travel insurance
One scheduled 2027 departure.
Currency used is Vietnamese Dong (VND). Per person sharing 70 000 000 VND (± R43 500); per person single 92 000 000 VND (± R57 000). Use a currency converter for an approximate figure in your local currency, noting that the final cost is determined by the exchange rate at the time of confirmation and payment. Flights excluded; international flights from South Africa are estimated between R18 000 – R24 000, depending on your route and airline.