Welcome to Hanoi! You'll be met at the airport by your driver, who will whisk you off to your hotel in the city, perfectly placed for exploring. Take a little time to rest and recuperate after your long journey, then head out for your first glimpse into Vietnamese life and the buzz of the city. Explore the local markets and get your first taste of the street food, you'll be wanting to sample as much of it as possible before it's time to fly home.

You'll dive straight into your cultural discovery of Vietnam today with this unique tour in the outskirts of the capital. Your guide will pick you up and drive you out to the 200-year-old Nom village. Here you’ll get to explore the beautiful, complex architecture, including the Nom Pagoda and antique houses. The community here will welcome you with open arms, and likely a cup of traditional tea whilst you learn about the local life and traditions that are deeply rooted in the Vietnamese way of life. Explore their village on a guided tour and learn how families create products such as tripod cauldrons, incense-burners and flower vases using centuries-old techniques.

Today, you'll leave Hanoi for your drive to Mai Chau, about 150 km southwest of the capital. The road weaves its way through mountains, fertile valleys and traditional villages, and before long, you'll be a world away from the chaos of Hanoi. With its breathtaking landscapes, welcoming communities, and opportunities for gentle trekking and cycling, your stay in Mai Chau will allow for an authentic, laid-back experience in rural Northern Vietnam.

Today, you'll head off to explore the valley on a private guided walk with a local guide. You'll walk through Mai Chau’s tranquil countryside, exploring ethnic villages, rice fields, and scenic rural paths along the way, all whilst learning about local life and culture.

Today, your adventure continues to Pu Luong Nature Reserve, located on the border of the Hoa Binh and Thanh Hoa provinces. Known for its stunning scenery, cascading waterfalls, waterwheels, rice terraces, and lush forests, it's a stunning spot to visit - one that visitors often miss. It is also home to a variety of hill tribe groups, including the Thai and Muong people. So more authentic interactions and insights into Vietnam's rich cultures are guaranteed here.

Today, we've included a guided 7km hike through the Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Walking with your guide, they'll share plenty of first-hand insights into the way of life here as you wind your way through the narrow paths and rice terraces. When you make it to Kho Muong village, you’ll be welcomed with open arms by the charming locals. Yet another chance to meet the people who make Vietnam the special country it is.

Today is an exciting day as you begin to make your way from Pu Luong across to Ninh Binh. You’ll make stops along the way at the Four Paws Bear Sanctuary as well as the Endangered Primate Rescue Centre, where you'll get to learn all about the incredible care given to some of the most endangered species in Vietnam. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit Cuc Phong National Park for a visit to the ‘Cave of Prehistoric Man’ where human skeletons and stone tools dating back 7,500 years have been found. Early this afternoon, you’ll arrive at your next hotel in Ninh Binh, where you'll stay for the next two nights.

This morning, we've included a half-day guided tour of Tam Coc, a UNESCO-listed gem frequently called ‘Halong Bay on Land’. During your tour, you’ll enjoy a peaceful sampan cruise through limestone caves, followed by a scenic bike ride past rice fields. You’ll also visit Bich Dong Pagoda and climb to Ngu Nhac Mountain for panoramic countryside views. There are plenty of opportunities to get a real taste of local life in the countryside today.

Your day starts with a private transfer to Halong today. After arriving at the pier, meeting your wonderful crew and checking into your cabin, head up to the deck to take in the landscapes as you gently cruise into the bay. Enjoy lunch on deck, soaking it all in before an afternoon of adventures. There's so much to fill your time today. Kayak to hidden beaches, try a spot of Tai Chi on deck or just simply marvel at the natural beauty of this natural wonder. As the sun starts to set, you'll anchor in a quiet cove for a delicious dinner. If you'd like a truly unique local experience this evening, you'll have the opportunity to take part in the local tradition of squid-fishing.

Waking up on the bay is a special experience this morning. Set your alarm in time for sunrise if you want to experience something really unforgettable. After a breakfast onboard, you'll head back to dry land, ready for your transfer back to Hanoi. For your final night in Vietnam, we've included a truly local experience for you to enjoy. You’ll travel to a residential neighbourhood in the southwest of the city for a memorable dining experience with a welcoming family in their home. Enjoy home-cooked local specialities whilst swapping stories and hearing all about what it’s like to live & work in Hanoi.

Bid farewell to Vietnam as you board your flight back to the UK today. We'll talk you through the different flight options to find the most convenient one for you. Or, if you have the time and fancy diving even deeper into authentic Vietnam, you may even opt to extend your holiday, continuing your adventure south.