I
Hoan Kiem Lake at first light
Before the city wakes, we walk around the lake with a Hanoian who grew up nearby, past tai chi groups and the red Huc Bridge, then stop for pho at a stall with no sign.
To slow down
The north, unhurried: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay and Sapa
Eight days from the lakes of Hanoi to the islands of Ha Long and the rice terraces of Sapa, at a pace that leaves room to breathe.
At a glance
- Duration
- 8 days, 7 nights
- Places
- Hanoi · Ha Long Bay · Sapa
- Best season
- October to April
- Ideal for
- Couples, friends, small private groups
About the journey
Northern Vietnam rewards those who take their time. We begin in Hanoi, with mornings by the lake and afternoons in the Old Quarter, then sail for two nights through the quieter bays beyond Ha Long, and finish high in the mountains of Sapa, walking between villages with local guides. Each day has one main experience; the rest is yours.
Three moments
II
Two nights in the quiet bays
Our boat sails from Lan Ha rather than the busiest channels. We kayak into hidden lagoons at low tide and watch the islands turn silver from the deck at dusk.
III
Walking the terraces of Sapa
A Hmong guide from the valley leads a gentle walk between villages, with tea in a family home and time to learn about indigo dyeing and embroidery.
Guest voices and notes
Note from the journey designer
We prefer to reach Sapa by private car with a stop in the Hoang Lien Son foothills, rather than the overnight train, so that guests arrive rested and in daylight.
Tailored for you
Pace
One main experience each day, with free afternoons in Hanoi and Sapa.
You could add
A private cooking class in a Hanoi home, or a day in Ninh Binh among karst and rice fields.
You could swap
Exchange one night on the bay for a night in a mountain lodge in Mai Chau.
Read the story from this journeySapa: terraces, mist and the people of the valleys →
Before you go
Day by day
- Arrive in Hanoi, private transfer, evening walk around Hoan Kiem Lake
- Hanoi at dawn, Temple of Literature, the Old Quarter; water puppets at night
- Drive to Lan Ha Bay, board a small private boat, kayaking at sunset
- A full day on the bay: lagoons, a floating village, a beach of your own
- Return to Hanoi; free afternoon
- Drive to Sapa through the mountains; settle into a valley lodge
- Walk between Hmong and Dao villages with a local guide
- Morning at leisure, return to Hanoi for your onward flight
We take care of
- Private car and driver throughout, and a private boat on the bay
- An English-speaking Asia Sun guide in Hanoi and a local guide in Sapa
- Hotels and lodges chosen for their character and quiet
- Meals chosen with you, including dietary needs
Good to know
- Northern winters (December to February) are cool and can be misty; bring a warm layer for Sapa.
- Walks in Sapa are gentle but the paths can be muddy after rain; comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Departure
On your own dates
