Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam’s ancient capital and the ideal starting point for Kampá Tour’s 12-day journey through Northern and Central Vietnam. The name Hanoi means “Inside the River,” and it was once called Thang Long, or “The Soaring Dragon.” As the former capital of French Indochina, the city is rich with European architectural influences, particularly visible in the city center.
Depending on where your hotel is located, you might wander through the Old Quarter, home to the famous 36 streets — the historic core of this ancient trading city. These streets are named after the traditional products once made and sold there, such as Cotton, Iron, Sugar, and Traditional Medicine. Take a moment to visit Ma May Street and explore the Ancient House of Vietnamese, a fine example of traditional Hanoi architecture. The rest of your day is free for you to relax and settle in.
Overnight stay in Hanoi.
Spend a day exploring Hanoi’s famous cultural landmarks and historical sites at your own pace. We suggest visiting highlights such as Hoan Kiem Lake, featuring the Jade Mountain Temple and Turtle Tower, the Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and Stilt House, colonial-era French Quarter buildings, and the Ethnology Museum.
In the afternoon, you’ll transfer to the station to board the overnight train to Lao Cai, the gateway to the northwest mountainous region.
Overnight onboard in a private cabin.
Arriving early in Lao Cai, you’ll start your day with breakfast at a local restaurant before traveling to Bac Ha, a tranquil town about 100 kilometers northeast of Sapa.
Once there, set out on a scenic hike through mountains, hills, valleys, and ethnic villages. You’ll pass through lush fir forests and arrive at Ngai Phong Cho village, home to the Flower Hmong and Phu La communities, where traditional mud houses are still preserved.
Continue trekking to the lesser-known villages of Thai Giang Pho and Na Lo, inhabited by the Tay and Black Hmong ethnic groups. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of rice terraces and winding rivers. The day concludes with a warm homestay experience with a Tay family, where you’ll share dinner and learn about their customs.
You’ll spend the night in a homestay, typically a cozy room in a traditional house equipped with mosquito nets, comfortable mattresses, and clean sheets. Bathrooms with hot water and towels, as well as shared toilets, are usually located outside, offering an authentic local experience.
Depending on the day of the week, you’ll have the chance to visit the vibrant weekly markets of local ethnic minorities around Bac Ha: Coc Ly market on Tuesday, Sin Cheng market on Wednesday, Can Cau market on Saturday, and Muong Hum, Muong Khuong, or Bac Ha markets on Sunday. These lively markets bring together colorful ethnic groups who trade goods and share news within their communities. You’ll also witness the fascinating cattle trading traditions unique to the region.
Afterward, we’ll travel to Sapa, a picturesque town once favored as a French colonial resort. Nestled at the edge of the country within the famous Hoang Lien Son mountain range, Sapa enjoys a temperate climate. It is renowned for its stunning northern highland landscapes, winding zigzag paths, and endless rice terraces. Sapa is also rich in cultural heritage, home to traditional villages, bustling markets, and diverse ethnic minority communities.
In the afternoon, we’ll explore beyond the usual routes to visit Hang Da and Sa Seng, two beautiful highland areas east of Sapa. Your journey will pass through the karst limestone formations of Hang Da, quaint hamlets, and local farmlands. Then you’ll traverse Sa Seng, a long valley framed by mountains, with breathtaking views of lush forests and clear streams.
As the day ends, we’ll return to Sapa town, where you’ll stay overnight in a comfortable hotel.
Get ready for a captivating day of hiking through the breathtaking and exotic scenery of Muong Hoa Valley. Located southwest of Sapa at the foot of Mount Fansipan—the highest peak in Indochina—Muong Hoa Valley offers stunning natural beauty. Along your trek, you’ll visit ethnic villages scattered across the valley, including Y Linh Ho and Lao Chai, home to the Black Hmong, as well as Ta Van, inhabited by the Dzay people.
You’ll have opportunities to connect with locals working in the lush rice fields, gaining a deeper understanding of their daily lives and traditions. Surrounded by steep mountains, Muong Hoa Valley is a rich cultural tapestry, inhabited by diverse ethnic groups such as the Hmong, Dzao, Dzay, and Tay, all of whom depend on rice cultivation.
At the end of the day, we’ll travel back to Hanoi by road, where you’ll spend the night and relax after an exciting day of discovery.
Depart for Ninh Binh—known for its stunning limestone karsts, sugarloaf-shaped mountains, and rice fields that are flooded by rivers and lakes year-round.
Upon arrival in Ninh Xuan, visit Mua Mountain. Climb the 486-step white stone staircase to the summit of this bell-shaped peak, where you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the Tam Coc region.
Next, transfer to Tam Coc for a relaxing bike ride to explore this beautiful area at your own pace.
In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise along the Ngo Dong River, winding through lush rice fields, passing scenic sugarloaf hills, and gliding beneath three magical caves nestled among towering limestone cliffs.
At day’s end, return to Hanoi for an overnight stay at your hotel.
To minimize travel time, you may choose to spend the night in Ninh Binh instead of returning to Hanoi. The following morning, continue your journey to Halong Bay with a private guide and car (additional charges apply).
Depart for Halong Bay—Vietnam’s most stunning bay and one of Asia’s most magical landscapes. Upon arrival, board a traditional junk boat and be welcomed by the crew before setting off on a magnificent cruise through Bai Tu Long, the northern part of Halong Bay.
Admire the scenic islands and islets shaped like sails, dogs, roosters, incense sticks, and more. Explore the breathtaking caves of Halong Bay, including Thien Canh Son, famous for its ancient stalagmites and stalactites.
Continue cruising to Cap La, where, weather permitting, you can enjoy kayaking and swimming in the pristine waters of the bay. Later in the afternoon, unwind on the junk’s upper deck.
Lunch and dinner will be served on board.
Enjoy a free evening for relaxation, with options such as card games or night fishing.
Overnight on board the junk.
Wake up early to experience a breathtaking sunrise as the first light gently illuminates the limestone karsts of the bay, followed by a peaceful Tai Chi session on the boat’s terrace.
Set out on a boat or kayak trip to visit the fishing village of Vung Vieng, where you’ll have the chance to meet and interact with the local community.
Enjoy lunch on board before disembarking and returning to Hanoi.
In the evening, take a flight to Hue, the historic imperial city in central Vietnam.
Overnight stay in Hue.
Enjoy a leisurely day exploring Hue, the last imperial capital of Vietnam from 1802 to 1945.
Take the opportunity to visit the Imperial City, the stunning mausoleums of the Nguyen emperors, and Thien Mu Pagoda—Hue’s most beautiful and famous pagoda. You can also visit the peaceful Tu Hieu Pagoda, known for the tombs of Nguyen dynasty eunuchs. Additionally, explore Dong Ba Market, the largest and oldest market in Hue, where you’ll find local specialties like conical hats, traditional tunics, and more.
Overnight stay at your hotel.
Begin your road journey to the charming town of Hoi An, located about 150 km south of Hue. Along the way, enjoy several captivating stops:
Explore the pristine and less-touristy Thuan An and Lang Co beaches, known for their long stretches of golden sand. You’ll also pass vast lagoons supporting local fish farms.
Cross the famous Cloud Pass, the highest mountain pass in central Vietnam. This natural climatic divide between the north and south offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lang Co and Da Nang bays from its summit.
Be fascinated by the unique roadside cemeteries, often called “Ghost Towns,” featuring clusters of elaborately carved tomb-castles showcasing diverse Asian architectural styles. From afar, they look like miniature cities.
Arrive in Hoi An in the afternoon, where you’ll check in to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.
Enjoy a full day at your own pace to explore the charming old town of Hoi An. Here are some options to make the most of your day:
Wander through the historic Old Quarter’s narrow streets, soaking in its unique atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to shop for local products like lacquerware, handicrafts, and more.
Visit one of Hoi An’s famous silk shops to have tailor-made clothing created just for you by skilled local tailors.
Take a scenic bike ride through the beautiful countryside around Hoi An, passing traditional villages known for crafts such as vegetable farming, pottery, and carpentry.
If the weather permits, relax on the stunning beaches of the Eastern Sea, including Cua Dai and An Bang, considered some of Vietnam’s most beautiful. Enjoy the sun and refreshing sea breeze for a rejuvenating break.
After a day of discovery and relaxation, return to your hotel for a restful night.
On the final day of your 12-day Vietnam journey, enjoy a free day to relax or complete any last-minute shopping. Depending on your flight time, a Kampá Tour guide will escort you to the airport for your departure from Hanoi.
Add to the itinerary
Add to the itinerary
Add to the itinerary
Add to the itinerary
This price, based on four people staying in standard hotels, may vary depending on:
• Travel dates
• Number of travelers
• Selected services
Yes, 10 days is sufficient to explore many of Vietnam’s highlights. With a carefully planned itinerary, you can experience vibrant cities, historic landmarks, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural traditions. By focusing on key regions—such as the North, Central, and South—you’ll gain a well-rounded understanding of the country’s diverse attractions.
A tailor-made trip is a travel experience designed specifically according to your preferences, including your travel dates, length of stay, and desired services. It takes into account your interests and budget. A local advisor from the agency works closely with you to prepare the itinerary and plan your journey. This ensures you enjoy a well-organized trip customized in every detail to fit your wishes and requirements.
A family-friendly 10-day Vietnam itinerary can include:
Exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter with a cyclo ride and visiting kid-friendly spots like the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.
Cruising Halong Bay, including kayaking, cave exploration, and beach stops.
Visiting Hoi An to join lantern-making workshops and wander through the ancient town.
In Ho Chi Minh City, exploring the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens, and taking a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels.
These activities offer a fun and educational experience for travelers of all ages.
The best time to visit Northern Vietnam is generally from September to November and from March to May. During these months, the weather is pleasant with comfortable temperatures and lower chances of rain.
Vietnam’s climate varies greatly from north to south due to its diverse topography and long stretch of 2,000 km. While one region may be rainy or cold, another can be sunny and pleasant. A classic north-to-south tour with a beach break can be enjoyed year-round.
If you travel during winter and spring (November to April), it’s best to plan your beach stay in southern destinations like Nha Trang, Vung Tau, Con Dao, or Phu Quoc. For trips in summer and autumn (May to October), the beaches around Da Nang and Hoi An are ideal choices.
As a general guideline, a 2-week trip to Vietnam costs around $1,450 per person when traveling as a pair (excluding airfare). For a 3 to 4-week journey, you can expect to budget between $1,900 and $2,500 per person. Traveling in a larger group of 4 to 6 people can make the trip more cost-effective. Prices vary depending on the trip duration, travel season, and your preferences for activities and services. For a detailed quote tailored to your needs, please send us a request, and our travel advisor will assist you.
Vietnam offers an incredible variety of landscapes and rich cultural experiences. If time allows, be sure to visit these highlights:
In the North: Start in Hanoi, the ancient capital filled with history. Explore the mountainous regions of Bac Ha and Sapa to meet vibrant ethnic communities. Don’t miss the stunning scenery of Halong Bay, both from the shore and on a boat cruise, famous for its iconic limestone karsts.
In Central Vietnam: Discover the historical depth of Hue, the former imperial capital. Nearby is Hoi An, often regarded as Vietnam’s most charming town, where lantern-lit streets create an enchanting atmosphere.
In the South: Experience the bustling energy of Ho Chi Minh City, a lively metropolis rich in history. Further south, explore the Mekong Delta with its lush landscapes, traditional crafts, and lively floating markets—offering a unique experience different from the northern mountain regions.
You can pay the balance of your trip using one of the following methods:
In cash upon arrival: We accept US dollars and euros, with the exchange rate calculated on the day of payment. Please note that defaced or very old banknotes are not accepted, so we recommend obtaining new bills from your bank to avoid any issues.
By credit card at our office upon arrival: Payments are processed via our credit card terminal. An additional fee applies—3% for Visa or Mastercard payments, and 4% for American Express. Payments are made in the local currency.
By bank transfer: Please complete the transfer at least 10 days before your departure to ensure the balance is credited before your trip begins.
You have two options to pay the deposit:
Bank transfer: Our account details are provided in your travel invoice.
Credit card payment (Visa, Mastercard, Amex): You can pay securely through our bank’s website. This method includes insurance coverage as part of your card services, such as cancellation insurance, medical coverage, and repatriation. Please note that additional fees apply—3% extra on the deposit for Visa or Mastercard payments, and 4% extra for American Express. Payments are made in the local currency.
If you agree with the itinerary proposed by one of our advisors, please email us to confirm your tour reservation. Your advisor will then send you the booking documents, which include:
A reservation form with detailed information about your tour and a section for your personal and contact details. You’ll need to complete and return this form, along with scanned copies of your passports.
A travel invoice requesting a 25% deposit of the total trip price.
Your trip will be officially confirmed once we receive the completed form and deposit payment. We will also provide you with a travel contract outlining the trip details, including duration, travel dates, deposit paid, and your contact information.
