HA GIANG – CAO BANG – HA LONG BAY | 5 Days / 4 Nights

DAY 1

HA NOI - HA GIANG

Today’s journey begins in the morning as we leave Hanoi behind and head north toward the remote highlands of Ha Giang, one of Vietnam’s most spectacular and least-visited regions.

Along the way, the landscape gradually changes from urban sprawl to rolling hills and forested mountains. After lunch en route, continue driving through winding mountain roads offering beautiful views of rivers and rural villages.

Arrive in Ha Giang City in the late afternoon. After check-in, enjoy a relaxed evening and a welcome dinner introducing local northern cuisine.

Overnight in Ha Giang.

DAY 2

HA GIANG - DONG VAN

After breakfast, begin a full day of exploration through the Dong Van Karst Plateau UNESCO Global Geopark, famous for its dramatic limestone scenery and ethnic diversity.

Stop at Quan Ba Heaven’s Gate to admire panoramic views of valleys and the iconic Twin Mountains. Continue through scenic mountain passes, stopping frequently for photographs and encounters with local hill tribe communities.

In the afternoon, visit the historic H’Mong King’s Palace, once home to a powerful ethnic leader. Later, stroll through the atmospheric Dong Van Old Quarter, a former trading town where stone houses tell stories of cross-border commerce.

As evening falls, enjoy dinner and the quiet charm of this mountain town.

Overnight in Dong Van.

DAY 3

DONG VAN - MA PI LENG PASS - CAO BANG

This morning, travel along the legendary Ma Pi Leng Pass, considered one of the most breathtaking mountain roads in Vietnam. From the viewpoints, gaze down at the emerald waters of the Nho Que River cutting through deep limestone gorges.

Optionally, take a short boat trip on the river for a closer perspective of the dramatic cliffs.

After lunch, continue eastward toward Cao Bang, passing through remote borderland landscapes dotted with ethnic villages and rice fields. Arrive in Cao Bang town in the evening, check in, and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Overnight in Cao Bang.

DAY 4

CAO BANG - BAN GIOC WATERFALL - HA LONG BAY

After breakfast, depart for Ban Gioc Waterfall, Vietnam’s largest and most beautiful waterfall, located directly on the Vietnam–China border.

Upon arrival, walk along the riverbanks and enjoy the powerful cascades surrounded by karst mountains and rice fields. A bamboo raft ride brings you close to the falling water, offering unforgettable photo opportunities.

Continue to nearby Nguom Ngao Cave, exploring its vast chambers filled with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

In the afternoon, travel south toward the coast, arriving in Ha Long City by early evening. Board your overnight cruise on Ha Long Bay, enjoy dinner on board, and relax under the stars surrounded by limestone islands.

Overnight on cruise – Ha Long Bay.

DAY 5

HA LONG BAY - HA NOI

Wake early to enjoy sunrise over Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. After a light breakfast, take part in a morning activity such as Tai Chi on the sundeck or a short cave visit.

Brunch is served on board as the cruise gently sails back toward the harbor. Disembark late morning and begin the return journey to Hanoi.

Arrive in Hanoi in the late afternoon, marking the end of a truly immersive journey through northern Vietnam’s mountains, borderlands, and seascapes.

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